MAN WITH TOOLS

7 Winter Home Improvements To Help You Stay Warm

2011-12-27T09:22:00.000-08:00

When winter wind starts to blow, make sure it doesn't blow right into your house. Keep your toes toasty warm and the heating bills low by taking these few simple home improvement ideas to heart.

Don't get caught off guard by drafts and other sneaky culprits that make your heating system work even harder. Start on these small home improvements now to avoid big bucks later.

1.Now is the time to replace those old single pane windows. Double pane windows are much more efficient and can cut your utility bills significantly, especially if you replace all of the windows in the house at the same time. New windows not in the budget? Caulk around those single-pane windows where the window meets the frame.

2.Schedule an annual service for your heating system. The regular checkup and thorough cleaning can help ensure the system runs strong and steady throughout the winter. If your heating system needs repair or upgrading, do that now.

3.If you have an older water heater, insulate it. An insulating blanket can prevent a great deal of heat from escaping and help the unit heat water more efficiently. If you want to go for a home improvement, replace your old faithful with a new solar water heater.

4.Did you know drafts can come in through your electrical outlets? Small sheets of insulation for your outlets are available at home improvement stores for mere pennies. Simply remove the cover, insert the insulation, and put the cover back on.

5.While you are insulating things, look to your attic. Thick rolls of insulation can cut your utility bills and keep your home warmer during the winter. If there isn't enough insulation up there, it's time to call Man With Tools to bring in more.

6.Switch out your old thermostat for a programmable one that allows you to adjust the temperature during the hours when you are not at home. That small change in temperature can be enough to reduce your utility bills during both winter and summer.

7.Add a high-quality storm door to your exterior doors to provide a barrier between the door and the cold outside. Weather stripping along the entry doors can help cut down even further on drafts.

If you want to be absolutely sure you have done all you can to prevent old man winter from coming into your house, talk to your utility company about an energy audit. These audits are usually free of charge and can give you great tips for home improvements you might have missed.

Fall Preventative Home Maintenance

2011-11-16T09:16:00.000-08:00

Before the weather grows colder it's important to prepare for the winter months to prevent costly damage. Below are the fall preventative home maintenance steps that every homeowner should follow.

Gutters and Downspouts
Clean gutters and downspouts frequently throughout fall to prevent build up of leaves and other debris. Neglected gutters can lead to wood rot problems and pest infestations, not to mention ruined gutters.

Be sure water is not coming down behind gutters and that all support brackets are securely in place.

Ensure that water drains properly and doesn't pool. Pooling can cause damage to foundations, driveways, and walkways.

Windows and Doors
Inspect and repair any loose or damaged window or door frames.

Install weather stripping or caulking around windows and doors to prevent drafts and to lower heating bills.

Heating Systems
Replace the filter in your furnace.

Consider having a heating professional check your heating system to ensure optimal performance and discover minor problems before they turn into costly major repairs.

Clean your ducts to better your heating system's efficiency as well as to reduce household dust and to provide relief to those with respiratory problems.

Plumbing
To prevent pipes freezing and bursting, ensure that the pipes are well insulated.
Know how to locate and turn off the water shut-off valve in case pipes do freeze.

Chimney and Fireplace
Call a professional in to inspect and clean your chimney. Fireplaces that are regularly used during the season should have an annual cleaning to prevent dangerous chimney fires.

Test your fireplace flue for a tight seal when closed.

Attic ventilation
Be sure attic insulation doesn't cover vents in the eaves to prevent winter ice dams on the roof.

Be sure ridge vents and vents at eaves are free of plants and debris.

Check bird and rodent screens for attic vents to prevent any unwanted guests.

Landscape and Yardwork
Although grass appears to stop growing in the fall, the roots are actually growing deeper to prepare for winter. Now is the best time to fertilize and reseed your lawn.

Prune your trees and shrubs after the leaves turn to encourage healthy growth.

Trim any tree limbs that are dangerously close to power lines or the roof of your house.

Home Repairs: Maybe They Will Just Go Away Right?

2011-09-08T15:07:00.000-07:00

Nobody enjoys honey-do lists. Nobody wants to spend their entire weekend re-roofing a house or fixing the kitchen sink. So the tendency is to let these projects go, put them off, procrastinate. There's always that age-old philosophy: there's nothing to do today that can't wait until tomorrow. And it's not because you're lazy, but more because of the exact opposite: in this busy day and age our to-do lists always runneth over. However, these are necessary chores that have to be taken care of right away. It's a responsibility that comes with owning a house. Don't think of this advice as a guilt-trip, but instead a firm warning for the future. The problem won't just go away. And the more you sit on home repairs, the worse these problems are going to get. And this means that more time and money will eventually have to be spent to put right what was once a quick and affordable fix.

Excuses, Excuses, Excuses
There are several reasons we put off home repairs, but try not to let these excuses get in the way. Here are some common ways we postpone the inevitable and some additional tips about how to get around these rationalizations:

"It's Not a Big Deal!" Yes, it is and you know it. It's easy to be forced into fixing your home. Believe it, when that furnace breaks down in the middle of a cold winter night, you'll be calling that HVAC guy ASAP. But don't let it get to that point. Avoid that inconvenience and shelling out big bucks after the fact. Stop the problem early and you'll never have to deal with future disasters.

"I didn't know it was broken!" A lot of problems do go unnoticed because they're hidden from view: on top of roofs, inside the walls, up in the attic. This is why you have to occasionally inspect your house to make sure things are running well, and if you don't know what to look for then hire a trained professional to look things over. If you're having trouble with your toilet, nip it in the bud, and while he's there have him look over other areas of the house to make sure everything is up to snuff.

Take care of those nagging problems!

Remember: Prevention is the best solution. Home repair doesn't just refer to things that are broken; it also means keeping things in proper working order. No machine, device, or structure runs forever. For instance, you have to take your car in for oil changes every few months. You have to rotate your tires every so often. Well, the same goes for your house: continual maintenance is key to sustaining an efficient household.

"I don't know how!" Of course you don't. Not all of us our trained craftsmen, and sometimes the simplest chores end up being the most complicated. That's why how-to manuals exist. If you don't have time to read the instructions, then ask a friend or family member with some know-how to help you out (and don't forget to buy them a pizza afterwards). Or if you don't want to impose on anyone, call Man With Tools.

Summer Home Projects

2011-06-28T15:34:00.000-07:00

When the warm weather hits, outdoor remodeling is a great way to improve your home's appearance and raise your property value, as well. Whether you paint a new color or upgrade your landscape, outdoor remodeling projects are likely to have an even more dramatic effect on your home than an interior remodel. There are so many great outdoor remodels to choose from, however, that deciding which one will best suit your home can be difficult. Here are our picks for the 5 best exterior projects around, and a few tips to help you choose which ones will most benefit your property.

Outdoor Remodeling Project #1: Siding
Siding is responsible for protecting your home from the elements. It's a tough job to say the least, and the appearance of many homes can easily be improved by replacing existing siding that has begun to show its age. Some sidings offer not only better protection and improved looks, but increased property value, too.

When considering replacement sidings, look to your environment for clues as to which choice is right for you. In the southwest, stucco offers a regional look and provides extraordinary durability; in the northeast, wood (or vinyl that looks like wood but requires less maintenance!) will give your home a more classic look. Don't just consider your climate, but your neighborhood, too. If every house on the block is clad in vinyl siding, would stone or brick set your house apart or make it stick out?

Outdoor Remodeling Project #2: Roofing
When it comes to outdoor remodeling projects, putting on a new roof is probably the most daunting. As the most important part of your home's weatherproofing and insulation system, a good roof can save on heating and cooling bills; a bad roof installation, on the other hand, can lead to all kinds of headaches and repair bills down the road.

Typically, your new roof's durability is directly related with its cost. Asphalt is the most affordable and the quickest to wear out; tile and slate are the most durable and by far the most expensive. Metal falls somewhere in the middle; its quick installation, moderate price, and 40+ year life expectancy are making it a popular choice among homeowners who want a good balance of value and durability.

Outdoor Remodeling Project #3: Windows
One of the more popular trends in home building and remodeling these days is adding more natural light with more—and larger—windows. Studies show that natural light has a positive effect on our well-being and adding more windows can open up a house, creating a more spacious-feeling room. They can provide a key design element in any home, but double or triple paned windows can also reduce your energy bills as they beautify.

If you are considering a window replacement, the location of your new windows can have an effect on your utility bills, too. In the northern hemisphere, large south-facing windows will bring in heat. This is a plus for those in cold climates, but might not be as appropriate for those where winter is no more than a 2 or 3 week bump in the road.

Outdoor Remodeling Project #4: Doors
One of the best and easiest outdoor remodels is to switch out your entry door. A custom door can add instant curb appeal to your home; they can be made of unique materials, clad in copper or aluminum, crafted from exotic woods or even by recycling an interesting wood once designed for another use (people have made doors from antique pickle barrels)!

While a brand new door is appropriate for just about any house, many homeowners are choosing to install salvaged entry doors. Environmentally sound and not hard on the eyes, classic doors carry a history with them that many find appealing. If you look in the right places and don't mind doing a little sanding and staining, installing a salvaged door can be an economical choice, too!

Outdoor Remodeling Project #5: Landscaping
No list of curb-appeal boosting outdoor remodeling projects is complete without mentioning landscaping! An overgrown landscape gives the impression of an unkempt home inside, as well. One of the most cost-effective ways to customize a home to meet your needs and tastes, good landscaping will add value to your home and enhance your lifestyle.

Enhancing your landscaping involves more than adding plants and cutting the grass. Landscape lighting plays a role in how your property looks at night. Many have installed subtle accents and spotlights that make their homes appear just as (or even more) stunning once the sun goes down. Low-voltage landscape lighting has become a new favorite of the do-it-yourselfer; easy to install and less expensive to operate, these systems are perfect for pathways, decks, and accents just about anywhere on your property!

Prepare Your Home for an Earthquake

2011-05-11T11:05:00.000-07:00

After the safety of your family, preparing your home for an earthquake should be your next priority when developing a recovery plan. If you live in a fault area and are susceptible to frequent earthquakes, there are steps you can take to make your home more secure in the event of a disaster. If you don't think you have time to execute these measures - make time. These steps could reduce damage to your home and return you and your family to your normal, everyday lives. Remember: Earthquakes can happen at any time - without warning.

Learn how to shut off gas, water and electricity in your home in case power lines are damaged.
Check the stability of chimneys, roofs and wall foundations. If you're living in a home that was built before 1935, make sure the house is bolted to the foundation. If your home is on a raised foundation, make sure the cripple, or short stud walls between the floor and foundation, are replaced with shear, or vertical walls that are used to stiffen the structural frame. If you have questions, contact Man With Tools.
Secure heavy furnishings.
Secure your water heater and other appliances that could move and disrupt utility lines.
Store breakable and heavy objects on lower shelves. Also, use latches on cabinet doors.
Keep all flammable and hazardous liquids, such as paints, pest sprays and cleaning products, in cabinets or secured on low shelves.
Maintain emergency food, water, medicine, a first aid kit, tools and clothing for earthquake aftermath.
If you live in a particularly vulnerable area for earthquake activity, you might also consider attending training for neighborhood residents for home preparedness, first aid, fire suppression and damage assessment. Developing a network of families in your neighborhood for an earthquake resource bank is a helpful tool. This would identify the special skills of those who live around you and a list of equipment and materials that can be shared.

Make special arrangements for the elderly, handicapped persons, those who are under medication and pets. Be mindful of those who cannot speak English. It's helpful to create information cards, written in English, indicating identification, address and special needs.

Also, know the location of the nearest police station in your area. Local fire stations will most likely be empty and locked for days following an earthquake, as teams will be aiding in earthquake rescue.

It's also recommended to identify a message drop for your family. Secure a location outside your home where your family can leave messages for each other in case you are separated or unable to remain in your home. Don't publicize that you are not home. Examples of a drop point can be inside a tin can, in the backyard or under a stone.

For more information visit these sites:
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Southern California Earthquake Data Center

Home Additions

2011-03-08T10:19:00.000-08:00

Adding on a kitchen, bathroom, or study can be a simple and (relatively) inexpensive way to improve your home and your way of life. Imagine if you and your spouse didn't have to use the bathroom in shifts, if the kids each had their own rooms, if you had a guest bathroom, or even a home office. Thing would certainly change in your home.
The possibilities for a home addition are limited only by your imagination, and of course the bank that's holding the note. But let's not get bogged down with the legalities and discuss some of the first steps to adding living space to your home:

First, Determine Your Property Lines
Locate your property lines and develop a plot plan which would include your home, landscaping and the location of the utilities. This is important information because local codes have restrictions with regard to how close you can build to your neighbor.

Second, Develop a Design that Complements Your Current Floor Plan
Look at the structure and the floor plan of your home. With the help of a residential designer or architect, develop a plan to provide the most attractive, useful and economical addition to your home. Don't just think about how you will live in your addition, also consider how it architecturally effects the look of your home from the outside.

Third, Create the Plans
The last step before work begins is to have detailed descriptions of the materials and the scope of the work to be done. If you don't tire of decision making, make a list of all the materials, and then include your first, second, and third choices. You might find that your preferences are too expensive, but that second on your list is unacceptable. So figure out what you can't live without, where you can compromise, and where you can go dirt cheap.

Is your home not big enough anymore?
Homeowners always want to know what home additions cost and how to reduce the final price tag without sacrificing anything they can't live without. This is a very normal reaction, especially given the size and scope of an adding an addition to your home. The truth of the matter is that unless money is no object, you will likely end up making some cuts to get what you want, so enter this process with that in mind.

According to our data, the average home addition cost is $41,275. This is an aggregate national number and does not take size, scope, slope of land, or geography into account. The high end of adding an addition to your house is $150,000 and the low comes in right around $14,000, but $41,275 is a good number to get your head around. It might not apply to your particular project, but you can perceive where your expected price should land by starting here.

Add a little extra if you live in an expensive area of the country or have heavy sloping. If your addition is small or will have relatively few bells and whistles, take off some cost.

Then gather bids from contractors. Keep in mind that no matter who you hire, your builder will have to work off of professional plans, so it's a good idea to get an architect involved as soon as you're ready. If you have plans for your home addition contractors to bid from, you'll get a better sense of their talents and cost because they will all be bidding from the same information. Hidden Cost: Don't forget to figure the cost of the architect into the total cost of the project, as the design is a necessary function of this process.

Adding an Addition without Adding too Much
It is often the case that homeowners try to build an oasis out of their addition—decking it out with great flooring, furniture, electrical advantages, and new paint—only to find that now it doesn't fit with the rest of the home. Now it feels like you are walking out of one home into another.

This is pretty common, but it's also something you want to consider before you begin. Maybe you are looking for a complete redesign of your home, and the addition is a bonus on top of that. Great. However, if you weren't expecting a complete revision of your current space in your total home addition cost, you might develop an intense love/hate relationship with your home addition.

If you don't want to update the rest of your home...
Try to match the flooring in the addition with the room leading into it. This will be nearly impossible, unless the flooring in the adjacent rooms is relatively new. All flooring material fades and gets dirtier with age, so just do the best you can. Really scrutinize the samples in the daylight, in shadows, in room light. Make sure you have a match. The good news is that in a year or two, they will fade to a similar color.

Matt Myers is a freelance writer for the home maintenance and remodeling industry. Formerly a contractor specializing in deck building and casework, Matt has written over 500 articles for both homeowners and contractors.

How To Weatherize Your Home For Fall

2010-10-05T16:05:00.000-07:00

Have you started closing your windows at night? That’s a good sign that it’s time to start getting your home ready for fall. An important part of your fall preparations should be weatherizing your home so you can enjoy a comfortable abode without having to sign over your paychecks to your natural gas, propane or oil providers.

Spend less than a hundred dollars on easy projects you can finish in a few hours, or invest in long-term solutions for your home’s energy efficiency shortcomings. Either route will give you a return on your investment in the form on energy and financial savings.

Quick and Dirty DIY
Doors – Use weatherstripping around your exterior doors. Not sure if you need it? Look at the cracks around your door. If you can see daylight through the seal, close up the cracks to prevent air from flowing in and out of your living space. Weatherstripping materials are available from hardware stores for less than $20 per door.

Windows – Right next to the weatherstripping in your hardware store, you should find window film for a comparable price. This clear plastic acts like a low-cost, temporary storm window. And all you need to install it are a pair of scissors and a hair dryer.

Other Leaks – Unwanted airflow can usually be found around older chimneys and electrical outlets on exterior walls as well. The best way to find leaks in your home is to have a professional energy auditor perform a blower door test, but if you’d like to try your hand at finding air leaks, hold a lit match near the area in question on a windy day. If the fire dances or blows out, you might have a problem. Depending on the leak, you can use caulk or weatherstripping to close the gaps. Don’t use caulk on movable parts.

Get Professional Help

The next three measures will not only have a big impact on your bills and comfort, but they will also qualify for the federal residential tax credit for energy efficiency, which is set to expire after December 2010.

Duct Sealing – If you have non-insulated ductwork located in your crawlspace or attic, you should have a professional energy auditor perform a duct pressure test to analyze how efficient your HVAC system moves heat through your home. If the only material sealing the gaps between your duct connections is duct tape, you’re probably spending a lot of extra money each winter to heat your attic or crawlspace, not to mention picking up dust and dirt and blowing it into your living space. Once your auditor has identified the leaks, a professional will be able to seal up and insulate your ductwork to help you heat your home up to 20 percent more efficiently.

Insulation – Properly installing insulation in your attic or crawlspace is one of the most cost-effective measures you can take to making your home more comfortable and affordable. However, the key to high-performance insulation is to make sure it is properly installed because if there are any gaps in the insulation, the overall R-value efficiency rating will drop significantly. If you can only afford to insulate one area of your home, insulate your attic. Not only will this have the greatest impact, but also attics are generally the easiest for insulators to access, which can also affect the cost.

New Furnace – About half of the energy you consume in your home is used for heating and cooling. If it’s time to replace your current heating system and you can afford the upfront costs of a 95 percent efficient (AFUE rated) furnace, you will see big long-term savings on your heating bills, especially if you combine the installation with the insulation and duct sealing mentioned above. A couple other quick and easy ways to keep your furnace running efficiently are to install a programmable thermostat and to change your air filter once a month during the heating season.

Besides the federal tax credit, which is equal to 30 percent up to $1,500 of the cost of energy efficiency improvements, you may also qualify for local rebates from your state and utilities. My company, EnergySavvy, provides a localized list of rebates as well as a free online home energy analysis to give you an idea of how much money you can save by improving your home’s efficiency. Or you can ask an expert about a project you have in mind.

This guest post was contributed by Anne Maertens with EnergySavvy, a nationwide company that provides a free online energy audit tool and a list of energy efficiency rebates and tax credits.

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Recession wiped out thousands of construction jobs in Santa Cruz

2010-09-06T18:13:00.000-07:00

By JONDI GUMZ

Alan Alexander, Jesse Garcia, Medardo Gonzalez and Martin Ribera are among the lucky ones. They work in construction and they have jobs, building a hotel on 41st Avenue.

This Labor Day, a holiday created in 1882 by the labor movement, hundreds of Santa Cruz County residents who made a living in construction are out of work.

Four years ago, before the economy crashed, the county had 6,500 jobs in construction, mining and logging, with the largest share in construction. As of last September, that number had plummeted to 3,500, a drop of 46 percent. Figures for this month will not be available until October, but the number declined to 2,900 in July, and no one is predicting a rebound.

"We're just riding the bottom," said Ned Van Valkenburgh of the Carpenters Union Local 505 in Aptos. "I don't think anybody knows when things will turn around. If I could tell you, I'd go to Vegas."

The contraction in construction has a domino effect, triggering contraction in other sectors of the economy.

Those who supply sand and gravel, lumber and cement for building projects see their sales decline. So do stores selling appliances, carpeting, cabinets and furniture. Painters, plumbers and landscapers get less work. Store owners and tradespeople have less money to spend, which cuts into sales for other goods and services.

Last month, CoreLogic, a company that collects and analyzes mortgage data, reported 20 percent of mortgage-holders in Santa Cruz County were "underwater."

That means 10,500 homeowners are in financial difficulty, owing more than what their home is worth. If those homeowners fail to make mortgage payments and are foreclosed, the downward spiral continues, lowering values on comparable homes.

Four years ago, Ron Chesshire predicted the economy would begin to turn around in 2011. Now homebuilders are saying it will be 2013.

"It's a very tenuous time for the construction industry, said Chesshire, who has been watching trends since 1964 and currently heads the Monterey and Santa Cruz Building and Construction Trades Council.

"There's not a lot of lending going on," Van Valkenburgh said. "Everything's at a lull."

The number of public works projects in Santa Cruz and Monterey County was cut in half between 2008 and 2009, and halved again between 2009 and 2010, he added.

Though federal stimulus money is being used for paving projects locally, it hasn't put a lot of people to work.

With technological advances, "it doesn't take as many people to do things as it used to," Chesshire said.

Yet the work is rewarding.

"You're creating a lot of value as a construction worker," said Chesshire, describing the Crossroads Shopping Village in Carmel as one of his most memorable jobs. "I was the first guy on the project. It was a field of grass."

Van Valkenburgh recalls helping rebuild the steeple at Holy Cross Church after the 1989 earthquake.

"It's pretty neat driving around and seeing projects you've worked on," he said.

The hotel on 41st Avenue, a Fairfield Inn the Aspromonte family plans to open next May, is one of the larger construction projects under way in the county. It's estimated to be a $10 million to $12 million project.

About 40 people are at the job site each day, according to Sid Slatter of Santa Cruz-based Slatter Construction, a company founded by his parents in 1984.

Though the economy is slow now, Slatter expects a big increase in demand for construction workers in the future.

"The average age of a construction worker is 55," he said.

Added Van Valkenburgh, "You can't outsource construction to India."

Construction jobs disappear
Santa Cruz County had 6,500 jobs in construction, mining and logging four years ago before the economy crashed. As of last September, that number had plummeted to 3,500, a drop of 46 percent. The county unemployment figure for September 2010 will be released Oct. 22; it was 11.4 percent in July.
Year No. OF Construction jobs County jobless rate
September 2006 6,500 4.2%
September 2007 5,500 4.6%
September 2008 4,600 6.1%
September 2009 3,500 10.3%
SOURCE: California Employment Development Department

"Cash for Caulkers" Bill Passes House

2010-07-15T14:52:00.000-07:00

Homeowners could collect thousands of dollars in Cash for Caulkers rebates for renovating their homes with better insulation and energy-saving windows and doors under a new economic stimulus bill the House passed Thursday.

The Home Star bill, passed 246-161, would authorize $5.7 billion over two years for a program that supporters - mostly Democrats - said would have the added benefits of invigorating the slumping construction industry and making the earth a little cleaner.

"Home Star is that solid investment that's going to achieve that hat trick of energy savings for the homeowner, of moving toward a cleaner environment and of creating jobs here at home," said bill sponsor Peter Welch, D-Vt.

Republicans overwhelmingly opposed the bill, and they were able to attach a condition that it would be terminated if Democrats do not come up with a way to pay for it.

The measure has come to be dubbed Cash for Caulkers, a takeoff on the popular 2009 Cash for Clunkers initiative that rewarded people for replacing gas-guzzling vehicles with more fuel-efficient models.

President Barack Obama has promoted the bill, which also needs Senate approval.

The initiative is separate from an energy tax credit of up to $1,500 that was included in last year's economic stimulus act. That credit for energy efficiency improvements runs through the end of this year.

Supporters estimate that 3 million households would make use of the new program, saving $9.2 billion in energy costs over a 10-year period. They said it would create 168,000 jobs, mainly in the recession-hit construction industry.

"Nearly one in four workers in the home construction and services industry has been laid off," said Energy and Commerce Committee chairman Henry Waxman, D-Calif. "Passing Home Star says, 'Help is on the way."'

Republicans were more skeptical, saying the price tag was too high at a time of mounting federal debts.

"We are going to authorize $6.6 billion of money we don't have so we can caulk homes?" asked House Republican leader John Boehner of Ohio.

"This is not a terribly bad bill, but it has one fatal flaw: It is not paid for," said Rep. Joe Barton of Texas, top Republican on the energy committee. Democrats argued that the issue of paying for the legislation will come later in the budgetary process, when Congress approves annual spending bills.

Republicans succeeded at the end of the debate in altering the bill to say it will be terminated if it is found to drive up the federal deficit, a provision that will force Democrats to come up with an offset. The Republicans also were able to alter the legislation so that the rebates would go directly to homeowners. In the original version, homeowners were to receive a discount or rebate from a retailer or contractor, who then would apply for payment from the government.

Waxman said Republicans picked up Democratic votes for that final GOP motion - 178 of 245 voting Democrats backed it - by including several "gimmicks" that could be used against lawmakers in future elections, such as a provision that contractors in the program must ensure that they don't have sexual predators on their payroll. He said some of the GOP-backed changes would be dealt with when the House and Senate work out a final version.

In debate on the bill, Republicans questioned whether the government can run the rebate program fairly and effectively. They said a $4.7 billion weatherization program that was part of last year's economic stimulus act has been slow to provide grants to states.

The Cash for Clunkers program, too, had some problems. An Associated Press study last November found that the program was commonly used by people turning in old pickups for new trucks that got only marginally better gas mileage.

Under Home Star, rebates or discounts would be provided to homeowners at the time of sale. The retailer or contractor then would submit documentation to a processing office which would verify the information and forward the request to the Energy Department for payment.

To prevent fraud, the program would require licensing for all participating contractors and a certain percentage of projects would be inspected.

The bill has two parts: The Silver Star program provides upfront rebates of up to $3,000 for specific energy-efficient improvements in homes, such as installing energy-efficient appliances or duct sealing, insulation or new windows or doors.

A Gold Star program would entitle people to up to $8,000 when they conduct comprehensive energy audits and implement measures that reduce energy use throughout their homes by more than 20 percent.

The bill has the backing of a wide spectrum of environmental and business groups.

"There is strong evidence that temporary, targeted incentive programs like Home Star can generate jobs, investment and economic growth," National Association of Manufacturers president John Engler said at a hearing in March.

With House passage, the bill moves to the Senate, where it most likely will be attached to the next jobs bill.

The legislation also would approve $600 million over two years for grants to states for programs to replace mobile homes with more energy efficient models.

The original bill included $6 billion for the rebate program plus the $600 million for the state grants. The Republicans were able to remove $324 million targeted for a Home Star loan program.

Going Green Saves You Green!

2010-06-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

Chances are you've heard quite a bit about methods for making your home green. Maybe you just don't have time to replace all your incandescent light bulbs with energy efficient compact fluorescents. Or perhaps you're not sold that buying new light bulbs will save you money.

How does saving 50% off your annual lighting bill sound?

Energy Star reports replacing just on incandescent light bulb with a compact fluorescent saves $30 for the entire lifespan of that new bulb. Just five bulbs could save you 50% off your annual lighting bill. Not bad for a bulb that costs $2 to $5.

There are many minor home repairs and improvements like this one. All these little jobs add up to huge savings. We know the importance of these home improvements, yet we also understand it's just as important that you have time for your favorite activities and loved ones.

Man With Tools understands time is precious. Your ever-growing "To Do" list already feels unmanageable. Let us help. Our professional handyman services work with you to prioritize home repairs that save you money while protecting the environment for your children.

From more major home improvements, such as installing low flow toilets that save 3.5 gallons of water per flush, to smaller fixes, such as repairing leaks in plumbing responsible for wasting 212 gallons of water monthly, Man With Tools guarantees all jobs are finished correctly and in a timely manner.

Begin saving money and the planet today. Contact our professional handyman services about how going green saves you green.

Home Tips: Spring Home Maintenance

2010-05-13T10:05:00.000-07:00

When spring blossoms usher away the winter cold, it is time to take care of a few important improvements around your home. Harsh weather has a way of leaving its mark on your home--the cold and rain can leave considerable damage--issues that should be dealt with before they cause bigger problems. Following are 8 post-winter repairs that should be taken care of sooner than later.

1. Fix damaged roofing
If you've seen any signs of your roof leaking, be sure to check for problems.

2. Repair water-stained ceilings
If the roof has leaked, there is likely to be a brown stain on the ceiling somewhere downhill from the leak--but not necessarily directly below the source of the leak. Don't try to paint right over a ceiling stain without proper preparation--the stain may bleed through the paint finish. Before painting, seal the stain with a stain sealer. Then you will probably need to repaint the entire ceiling (you can try to touch up the area, but, for uniformity, a complete re-paint will likely be necessary).

3. Repair roof flashing leaks
Many serious roof leaks are due to broken or improper roof flashing.

4. Repair siding leaks
If you've discovered any areas where your home's siding doesn't hold out rain and cold, you'll have to make repairs.

5. Clean raingutters and downspouts
Water damage is often caused by clogged raingutters and downspouts. Dry weather offers a good opportunity for cleaning them out so water will drain properly.

6. Clear up basement or crawl space flooding
If your basement or crawlspace become flooded, it is important to dry it out to prevent mold and dry rot, and to stop moist air from being drawn up into the living space where humidity can encourage condensation and mold.

7. Repair rotted woodwork
Where wood sills or sash have rotted because of too much moisture, you can use epoxy wood filler to repair the area. Use a chisel to dislodge most of the loose, rotted wood. Drill a few 1/4-inch holes into the damaged wood. Soak the entire rotted area with liquid epoxy "consolidant" to transform the area into a sturdy base for filler. Let the wood absorb it for about 5 minutes, then reapply, wait, reapply, and continue until the wood ceases to accept consolidant.

Knead a batch of epoxy filler, according to label directions, and mold the repair. As the material cures, dip a putty knife in solvent, and use it to sculpt and shape the repair. Sand, file or rasp as needed, and paint the area within 3 days.

If large areas are affected, talk with a carpenter or cabinetmaker.

8. Service your furnace and/or air conditioner. With forced-air systems, air returning to the air handler's blower first passes through an air filter designed to catch dust and debris and help clean the air before it's recycled to your home. A good furnace filter can help reduce allergens. When filters become clogged with dust, efficiency is reduced. Change filters quarterly or sooner if they look dirty.

Tax Credits Reward Home Energy Efficiency

2010-01-26T09:07:00.000-08:00

You know you live in a drafty house when your scented candles won't stop flickering, your natural gas bill is higher than your mortgage payment, and your sheepdog starts wearing a sweater.
You could raise your comfort level and lower your energy bills significantly by installing insulation, replacing leaky windows and doors, and replacing old furnaces and air conditioners with energy-efficient models.

But those projects cost money, and there's precious little of that around these days.

Still, if you can come up with the cash, you may be able to recoup some of your costs when you file your 2009 taxes. The economic stimulus package signed into law in February revived and expanded tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements that expired in 2007.

The bad news is that homeowners who installed new windows or insulation in 2008 are out of luck, at least as far as federal tax credits are concerned, says Matt Golden, president of Sustainable Spaces, a home retrofitting company based in San Francisco. The new tax credits don't apply to home improvements made last year.

Here's a look at what's available:

•A tax credit for 30% of the cost of energy-efficient doors and windows, insulation, air conditioners, furnaces, heat pumps and boilers, up to a lifetime cap of $1,500. This credit is available for 2009 and 2010.

That means if you spend $5,000 on new windows this year and claim a $1,500 tax credit on your 2009 tax return, you won't be able to claim an additional credit in 2010.

This is a more generous credit than the one that was available in 2006 and 2007, which covered 10% of the costs, up to a lifetime cap of $500, says Robin Christian, senior tax analyst for Thomson Reuters. The old credits also contained individual caps, such as a $200 limit on new windows. With the new credits, you can claim 30% of all your energy-efficient costs, up to the lifetime cap, she says.

For windows, doors, insulation and other similar projects that tighten up the "shell" of your home, the credit is limited to the cost of materials, Golden says.

However, if you buy a new air conditioner, furnace, heat pump or boiler that meets the energy-efficient guidelines, you can include the cost of installation in calculating the credit.

Only improvements to your primary residence qualify for the credits, says Edward Smith, tax partner with BDO Seidman in Boston. Unlike other tax credits, there are no income phaseouts, Smith says. In addition, taxpayers who are subject to the alternative minimum tax — a parallel tax system that often affects people who pay high property taxes — will be able to claim the credits, he says.

•Expanded tax credits for more ambitious projects, such as solar water heaters.

Starting in 2009, homeowners who install solar water heaters, geothermal heat pumps and wind energy systems are eligible for a tax credit of up to 30% of the cost, with no caps. Previously, caps on these types of projects ranged from $2,000 to $4,000. These tax credits are available through 2016, and both labor and materials qualify.

For more information about eligible energy-efficient home improvements, go to the website for the Alliance to Save Energy, www.ase.org.

USES FOR CREDITS

Tax credits are available for up to $1,500 toward the cost of these energy-efficient home improvements through 2010:
Windows and doors
Insulation
Roofs (metal and asphalt)
Energy-efficient furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, or boiler
Non-solar water heater

Tax credits are available for up to 30% of the cost of these energy-efficient improvements, through 2016:
Geothermal heat pump
Solar panels
Solar water heater
Small wind energy system.

Source: www.energystar.gov

Kick Off The New Year By Calling Man With Tools!

2010-01-07T10:28:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year from Man With Tools. Because of your support 2009 was a great year! We look forward to helping you with all of your home repair and improvements in 2010.
Make a list of all the things you need and give us a call!
831-588-6959

How to Winterize Your House

2009-11-30T20:02:00.000-08:00

In an attempt to help our customers get through the colder months in comfort. We have decided to share some of our favorite tips for winterizing your house. These practical tidbits will do more than keep you warm: If winterized right, you’ll save a bundle on home heating costs too.

* Check Your Furnace – You can do a few things to make sure your furnace is working up to par. If a hot water radiator heats your home, you should bleed the valves. To do this, open the valves slightly and then close them again when water appears. You should also consider regularly changing the filters inside the furnace, as considerable use causes filters to dirty quite quickly. Optimally, you should be checking and potentially replacing the filter at least once a month. If you know how to inspect your furnace and ducts, do so. If not, it’s usually a good idea to have a professional do so before wintertime to ensure everything is running.

* Clean Your Gutters – Believe it or not, this simple chore greatly aids in home winterization. Blockage in your home gutters, such as leaves and debris, traps water and snow inside. This water and snow then becomes ice, which expands and begins to seep moisture into your home. This not only makes for a colder house, it also causes real damage. Take the time to scoop fall leaves and sticks from your gutters using a spatula or spoon. Then give the gutters a good rinse. Or, get them cleaned by a professional.

* Seal the Exterior – Your home is porous, much more so than you’d like to believe. In order to keep heat in and cold out, you need to ensure that your house remains tightly sealed. Inspect the outside of your house for cracks and crevices and seal them if you find them. Use weatherstripping around doors and use caulk to prevent cold from seeping into the windows. Don’t forget the basement windows too by covering basement well windows using plastic shields. Don’t forget to remove summertime screens from your windows as you won’t need them much these next few months. Another sound investment to make is storm windows. You’d be amazed how effective a storm window can be in retaining heat. The savings are truly stupendous.

* Insulation – Do you need more of it? You very well might. Attics and crawlspaces are one of the most common places where heat is lost in the average home. When heat rises, it often rises right outside. The best way to prevent the heat from getting out is to double up on attic insulation. Generally, if you can see ceiling joists in your attic, then you could use it a bit more insulation. It’s a relatively small investment that can save you tremendously on heating costs this winter.

* Drain Hoses – It’s a small thing, but it makes all the difference between a cracked hose and a working one come spring thaw. Similarly, if you’re air conditioner (AC) has water shut off valve, turn it off.

* Check Your Ducts – In homes with central heating and AC, a tremendous amount of heat is lost before it even reaches the rooms of your house. What for? Improperly sealed ducts. It is advisable to check ductwork for separations and cracks each year. It’s also a good idea to vacuum out central air ducts every few years, as dust and buildup can seriously impair an otherwise functioning system.

* Check Pipes – You’ll want to make sure exposed pipes are insulated before wintertime. A pipe that has cracked due to freezing is a major irritation and expense. Similarly, you should remember to leave the heat on before leaving for vacation. Fifty five percent of constant heat will defend against the assaulting cold. You’d be surprised how many people forget to take this simple precaution when leaving home in the wintertime and return to the horror of cracked pipes. Don’t let yourself be one of them.

* Winterize Your Chimney – The often forgotten chimney is a common place where heat is lost. Inspect the chimney for cracks and seal them. If you use the chimney and fireplace, it’s a good idea to have it swept by a professional chimney sweep every few years. On a side note, you should also make sure a screen covers the chimney or grate. This simple precaution keeps unwanted objects and animals out. The last thing a chimney sweep wants to find is a dead raccoon or a family of squirrels when he arrives to clean your chimney.

So there you have it, some simple tips to help keep your house safe and warm throughout the winter. Properly winterizing your home isn’t just good for your bank account. A sealed, well-functioning winter home also uses fewer fuels, which gives Mother Nature a break as well. Plus, it saves wear and tear on your home’s existing systems. So seal it up, heat up a cup of cocoa and enjoy a nice warm and fuel-efficient winter.

11 Quick Fall Fixes

2009-09-29T09:34:00.000-07:00

1. Touch Up Paint
No time for a full-blown exterior painting project? Hit the trouble spots: the cut ends of all boards, especially fascia boards, where paint peels first. If you have a little more time, apply a coat to all trim pieces.

2. Clean Your Carpets
If your wall-to-wall carpeting harbors dirt and musty smells, throw open the windows to let it dry before the weather gets too cold. You can rent a steam cleaner for about $25 per day.

3. Manage Drainage
If you live in an area that gets more rain than snow during the winter, dig a French drain to prevent a downspout-fed lake from forming in your yard. A hole that's 4 feet deep and 4 feet wide should do the trick. Dig it under your downspout, line it with heavy plastic sheeting (or whatever your local building code requires), and fill it with gravel.

You can add plants on top of the French drain, but cover the gravel with landscape fabric before adding dirt. Another option is a trench-type French drain, which will move water away from your house rather than directing it deep into the ground.

4. Lighten Up
Yes, it's still true: replacing even some of your incandescent lightbulbs with high-efficiency compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs) saves you money and, depending on where you live, earns you a utility rebate.

5. Scrub Up
Washing your home's exterior, including the windows, makes it look better and helps prevent growth of mold and mildew that feed on dirt.

6. Mind the Gaps
Look for one of the biggest energy-wasters: air leaks. Inspect the caulking and seals around windows and add or replace the weather stripping around your exterior doors to prevent heat-sucking drafts. Check for leaks around outlets and switches, and add easy-to-install outlets or switch gaskets as needed. Even floor registers can leak air from a cold crawlspace or basement into ground-floor rooms; ask your local home center representative for an insulation kit designed for a fix.

7. Tune Your Furnace
A finely tuned furnace is almost like a musical instrument, humming along as efficiently as possible while keeping your family warm. This is a job for a professional.

8. Replace a Window
If you have a problem window or two, replace them with more energy-efficient models. What makes a window energy-efficient? Look for low-E glass, multiple glass panes, warm-edge spacers between the panes, and gas fills such as argon or krypton.

9. Repair Your Roof
Check your roof for leaks. If you know one exists, fix it before the snow starts to fall.

A word to the wise: If the leak is located at a ridge, a valley, or underneath the roofing, leave it to the pros.

10. Get with the Program
Switch out your old manual thermostat for a programmable one, which will be more convenient and accurate. Programmable thermostats contain no mercury and are better for the environment because using less energy reduces greenhouse-gas emissions associated with energy production. Because the thermostat will do the thinking for you and never forget, it will save you money on your utility bills--to the tune of about $150 per year--when used properly.

11. Hold in the Heat
Add insulation to your attic and watch your heating bill drop. Check your current insulation level by looking across the span of your attic. If the insulation is just level with or below your floor joists, you should add more--enough to bring your attic to an insulation R-value of 38, or about 10-14 inches, depending on insulation type. When adding insulation, you don't have to use the same type that currently exists in your attic.

Kitchens

2009-07-26T18:05:00.001-07:00

"Home is where the hearth is." What this saying basically comes down to is that a dwelling is not a home without a kitchen. Since prehistoric times, dwellings were literally built around the hearth--the cooking and heating center of the home.

Nowadays, the kitchen is where meals are prepared, snacks are sneaked, families come together, and homework and other projects are tackled. The "hearth" is still the "heart" of the home.

8 CHEAP HOME FIXES

2009-05-21T23:38:00.000-07:00

1. Make your kitchen really cook.

The kitchen is still considered the heart of the home. You can replace the kitchen faucet set, add new cabinet door handles and update old lighting fixtures with brighter, more energy-efficient ones. If you've got a slightly larger budget, you can give the cabinets themselves a makeover.

Rather than spring for a whole new cabinet system, which can be expensive, look into refacing the ones you have. ... Unless the cabinets are mica, a fresh coat of paint can also do the trick.

2. Give appliances a facelift.

If your kitchen appliances don't match, try ordering new doors or face panels from the manufacturer. Many dishwasher panels are white on one side and black on the other. It can be as simple as removing a couple of screws, sliding the panel out and flipping it over.

3. Buff up the bath.

Simple things like a new toilet seat and a pedestal sink are pretty easy to install, and they make a big difference. You can replace an old, discolored bathroom floor with new tile.

If your tub and shower are looking dingy, consider regrouting and replacing any chipped tiles. A more complete cover-up is a prefabricated tub and shower surround. These one-piece units may require professional installation but can still be cheaper than paying to retile walls and refinish a worn tub.

4. Paint.

New paint makes everything look clean and bright again. And don't forget the ceiling. Paint the trim a contrasting color.

Another option: Paint a wall three different shades of the same color. Measure equal sections and use painter's masking tape to mark off each area. Do the bottom of the wall first with the darkest shade. Once it dries, do the middle section with the next lightest shade and so on.

5. Mind the mechanics.

Finley Perry of F.H. Perry Builder in Hopkinton, Mass., advocates spending a few bucks on nitty-gritty stuff. "It's often very worthwhile to hire an electrician and plumber for a couple of hours to look over your electrical services, wrap or fix loose wires, fix any faulty outlets and check for and fix any water leaks," Perry says.

"Those details tell a buyer that someone has really taken care of the home and can really influence its price."

6. Let there be light.

If you have boring recessed lights in your dining and living rooms, consider replacing one of the room's lights with an eye-catching chandelier. Home stores offer a wide range of inexpensive ceiling fixtures these days. Add accent lighting, instead of sticking with the two ordinary lamps that flank both ends of the sofa.

Spotlights that plug into existing outlets can direct light to features you want to emphasize, like art or plants. If you have a ceiling fan and light you can also buy replacement fan blades (leaving the fan body in place) to update the fixture's look.

7. Reframe your entry.

Repaint or refinish that front door, and if you have a basic steel front door that has gotten dented, consider replacing it with either another inexpensive steel door or a fiberglass, wood grain door for slightly higher cost.

Next, replace that worn, flimsy little knob on your main entry door with a more substantial-looking handle-and-lock set. A nice, big piece of hardware signals newcomers that this is a solid home. Then, place two large planters on either side of the front door, with a profusion of healthy plants spilling out.

8. Consider curb appeal.

Although it sounds obvious, a nicely mowed lawn, a few well-placed shrubs and a swept walkway makes a great first impression. If you don't have a green thumb, consider hiring a landscaper to install some new sod, plant a few evergreen shrubs and give your front yard a good cleanup. These kinds of changes can instantly change people's perception of your home and, therefore, increase its value. Your neighbors will love you for it, too.

Spring Home Maintenance Check List

2009-04-16T22:43:00.000-07:00

Spring checklist for the home
Don’t let problems around the house turn into money drains

To help you protect your most valuable asset—your home—be on the lookout for these potential issues and learn how to fix them:

1
Hazardous deck

Look for water stains where the deck ties to the house. Ongoing water leakage can lead to wood decay, weakening the deck structure and the house. If you have any doubt about the structural integrity of the deck, call a pro to investigate.

Rid your deck of moss and mold. Pressure washers are effective. Remember, if you see wood damage, like raised fibers, increase the distance between the spray nozzle and the decking.

CR recommends an electric pressure washer. It’s quieter and easier to store and transport than a gas-powered model (Ratings available to subscribers).

We have a new best overall opaque decking stain in our latest tests (Ratings available to subscribers). Wolman semitransparent DuraStain (18146) lets the wood grain show and requires less prep work but won't last as long.

2
Dirty air conditioner

Disconnect electric power to the outdoor condenser on your air conditioner and clear it of leaves and debris with a vent brush, power blower, garden hose, or the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner. If the cooling fins are exposed, be careful not to bend them. (If your yard has lots of trees and plants, wrap fiberglass mesh around the condenser coil to capture pollen and leaves. Replace the mesh as needed. Don't allow debris to block airflow.) Vacuum the grille and register inside the home to ensure good airflow. And change your furnace filter.

CR recommends 3M's Filtrete, $20, or Utlra Allergen Reduction 1250, $16, furnace filters.

3
Foundation fissures

Hairline cracks in foundation walls might be the result of concrete curing or minor settling and aren't automatically cause for alarm. Mark them with tape and check them again in a few months. If they've worsened, call a structural engineer. If they're stable, fill them with an epoxy-injection system.

Also:

Fill in holes in siding and foundation walls with expandable foam.

Check that the ground around the foundation slopes away from the house (about 1 inch per foot).

Look for pellet-shaped droppings or shed wings from termites.

Clear the area of leaves, in which rodents can nest.

4
Faulty garage-door opener

To check that the door is balanced, release it into the manual mode and lift it by hand. The door should lift easily and smoothly and stay open on its own about 3 feet off the ground. If it doesn't, by hire a garage-door technician to counterbalance its overhead spring . Next, set the reversing force on the opener as low as possible. Place a 2x4 board on the ground under the door, wide side down. The door should pop back up when it hits the 2x4. If it doesn't, call a garage-door pro. Test the photoelectric eyes by holding the 2x4 between them. The door should reverse direction. If it doesn’t, have it checked by a pro.

5
Clogged gutters

Clear gutters of debris and check them for corrosion, joint separation, and loose fasteners. Flush out downspouts and unclog leader pipes. Leaders should extend at least 5 feet to direct water away from the foundation.

CR recommends A Type 1A ladder for added safety. Never go beyond the labeled highest step. For projects above 17 feet, you'll need a conventional extension ladder (Ratings available to subscribers). If you prefer a multiuse ladder, consider the 13-foot Gorilla AL-13 for $100. Never use an aluminum ladder near power lines.

6
Leaky roof

Leaks typically occur around an inadequately flashed chimney, skylight, or other opening. They're easiest to spot in the attic; inspect the rafters for water stains. Patching leaks is best left to a professional. While the contractor is on the roof, have him clean leaves from roof valleys.

Examine the siding under roof eaves, and the ceilings in the rooms below, for water or discoloration, indications that ice dams might have created leaks along the roof edge.

Inspect the roof for cracked, curled, or missing shingles. Asphalt shingles typically last 20 years.

CR recommends thick laminated shingles. They did the best overall in our tests, though some less-expensive, three-tab shingles also performed well.

Weakened trees

Inspect trees for broken branches. If the limb is high up, hire a licensed arborist. If you can reach it from the ground, take it down using the three-cut technique, which prevents bark from tearing and creating an open wound on the trunk:

Make the first cut 1 to 2 feet from the branch collar, sawing a quarter way through the bottom of the branch.

Make the second cut 3 inches farther out from the first, sawing all the way through the branch.

Make the final cut just beyond the branch collar, sawing from the top down.

Check trunks for signs of "sun scalding," which typically affects the south and the southwest sides of smooth-barked trees, such as maples. Inspect for roots poking through the soil, a possible sign that the tree is starting to list. If you had heavy snowfall in winter, look for bending branches. Make a mental note and check that they bounce back and produce leaves in the spring.

Cracked pavement

Nip cracks in the bud in the driveway and paths before weeds take up residence. Home centers sell patching materials and fillers designed for asphalt and concrete surfaces. These DIY fixes might not do the trick on surfaces that have ruptured from the effects of frost heaving. For those, you'll need to hire a professional to pour or pave a new surface over stabilized soil.

If you have a path that was dry set (as opposed to set in mortar), brush stone dust or sand in the joints to lock the pavers in place and prevent weeds from invading.

Go Green With Radiant Heat Insulation

2009-03-04T11:25:00.000-08:00

Man with Tools is proud to announce radiant heat insulation services!
Heat shield radiant barrier insulation is the premier heat reflective insulation made of 99% pure aluminum layering, consisting of a heavy duty, fiber woven sheet, which makes this material incredibly strong and tear resistant. Radiant barrier was originally designed by N.A.S.A for the space shuttle and is used on everything that needs to be insulated to date. Radiant Barrier is recognized by PG&E in their rebate program. Radiant Barrier is more and more becoming an industry standard in new construction for exterior walls and the roof. Not only is is a good idea, but actually mandatory in some states, both residential and commercial new construction. Radiant Barrier Insulation works at 97% efficiency- that means only 3% of the outdoor temperature is able to penetrate through your attic and into your home. You will notice the improvement instantly. The material works like a mirror reflecting your comfortable temperature back into your home all year long at 97%. Greatly reducing your heating and cooling bills. Save 17 cents a square foot!

Compare radiant barrier insulation to traditional fiber glass, not only in cost but in our planet! Safe, non toxic, environmental friendly, incredibly effective. Radiant Barrier does not loose it's R-value unlike fiberglass when compressed. Does not tear or burn. Rodent resistant, perfect for insulating under your home. By far much cleaner of an install than carrying fiberglass through your home.

New Windows Save Time & Money

2009-02-03T16:58:00.000-08:00

Most people think of curb appeal as roofing, siding, and landscape, but new window installation offers a great opportunity to upgrade your home in style and resale value. Not to mention, with nearly 40 percent of central heating lost through windows and doors, quality window replacement with proper insulation ensures substantial savings on utility bills.

Another reason to replace your windows is that today's replacement windows also deliver large savings in maintenance costs and convenience, as newer windows don't require the constant upkeep of scraping, replacing putty and new paint.

New Windows Can Save You Money on Utility Bills

Window salespeople make many claims about energy savings. How true are these claims? Good quality windows, installed properly, can yield substantial energy savings. How much you save depends on the type of window you choose and the type and condition of the windows you are replacing.

In the average home, 38 percent of the heat loss is through windows and doors. If your home has drafty single-pane windows or single-pane aluminum sliders, the heat loss from windows may be as much as 50 percent. The poorer the performance of your old windows, the more dramatic the savings and the sooner energy savings alone will cover the cost of your new window investment.

Window Openings

Many people don't realize that you don't have to replace your old windows with new ones that have the same opening style.

Air leakage in and around windows is a big factor in the window's overall thermal performance. In terms of air leakage, the best window is fixed; that is, can't open or close. There simply aren't any gaps and openings for air to find its way through.

While useless for ventilation or for escaping a fire, fixed windows may be an excellent option in certain locations. Nearly as good are "casements" or awning-style windows that crank open and closed. Because the seals are compressed slightly when the window is closed, it is difficult for air leaks to develop.

Windows should be replaced every 25 years! Use this link to
Install Windows
The least efficient opening style is sliders. Many people select sliders simply because that is what they've always had. There are plenty of good sliders on the market, but they have to rely more on other features, such as low-E coatings (see below) and more glazing layers, to deliver top energy performance. Sliders, which have more joints and gaps, are also more susceptible to air leaks as the seals age and get worn or lose their resiliency.

Window Frames

The window frame is the key to the long-term structural integrity of the window. If the frame warps or cracks, the window's performance can suffer enormously. And, as much heat can be lost through the frame as through the glazed (glass) portion of the window.

Both wood and vinyl frames perform well, whereas a metal frame doesn't often contain heat well. However, metal frames are generally stronger, which becomes a factor in commercial applications or with extra-large windows.

For normal residential windows, most homeowners choose vinyl or wood. With vinyl windows, avoid frames that are held together with screws because they tend to loosen over time. Instead, look for "welded" seams, where either heat or chemicals have been used to fuse the joints.

In terms of energy savings, wood and vinyl are comparable. Some people prefer the aesthetics of wood, though it lacks the maintenance-free aspect of vinyl.

Window Glazing

Most older windows are made with a single layer of glass. The most popular replacement windows are made with two panes of glass. Some people opt for triple-pane windows to maximize the improvement in thermal performance.

Added glass layers improve performance in two ways.

First, enclosed air and other gases are effective insulators. The more enclosed spaces the window has, the less heat can escape. Each layer of glass also provides more surfaces for low-E coatings. Some windows use a plastic film suspended between two layers of glass to achieve a triple-pane effect at a lower cost.

Low-E coatings are almost invisible finishes that are usually applied to glass. While they let through most of the light humans can see, they block much of the heat-intensive infrared light, thus improving the window's insulating value. Some windows have the low-E coating on a film suspended between two layers of glass, creating the effect of a triple-glazed product.

While plain air is a good insulator, some fill gases, like argon, krypton and carbon dioxide, are even better. The gas or combination of gases affects the window's overall thermal performance.

NFRC Rating

Fortunately, the National Fenestration Rating Council has developed a rating system that considers nearly all of the above factors.

One element the NFRC rating system doesn't account for, however, is the long-term durability of the product because it rates the window only when it is new.

The NFRC gives each window a U-factor rating. The U-factor is the inverse of the more familiar R-factor used in attic insulation. So a U-factor of .5 equals an R-factor of 2. The lower the U-factor the better it is.

When comparing windows, check for the NFRC label and look for the U-factor. The first number after the words "U-factor" is the rating that's appropriate for residential purposes. It will be marked "AA" or "Residential."

The U-factor marked "BB" or "Non-Residential" is for commercial window applications. Use the U-factor rating to make meaningful comparisons. Be wary of a window vendor who won't provide this number.

Purchasing the Best Window for Your Home

Obviously, you need to get price comparisons to make a decision. Keep in mind that a good portion of your cost is installation, so it makes sense to leverage those costs by installing a better window. Here are some guidelines:

Buy a double-pane window with a low U-factor when:

•You don't expect to live in the home long.

•You have less expensive gas or oil heat.

•You expect energy prices to remain stable or drop.

•You expect to have more income in 10-15 years.

Buy a triple-pane window with a very low U-factor when:

•You expect to live in the home for 10 years or more.

•You have more expensive electric heat.

•You expect energy prices to rise sharply.

•You expect to have less income in 10-15 years.

Window Durability

The NFRC ratings don't address window durability directly. If the windows warp, leak or loosen over time, their U-factor ratings are likely to plummet. Your best resource for choosing a durable, problem-free window is to rely on the advice of a reputable installer. He or she will be interested in your long-term satisfaction and will quickly steer you clear of windows that don't hold up well.

You can also inspect the window before buying. Look for a good fit between parts. Slip a business card between any slidable sashes and the frame. The card should slide, but there should be some resistance.

Low U-factor ratings and durable construction are both determined by attention to details. In general, the better rated windows will be better made as well.

Man with Tools has professional window installers at your service!
Schedule a free estimate online at www.manwtools.com
Call today for reliable service!
831.706.8740

Home Maintenance Check List

2009-01-05T10:05:00.000-08:00

Here's a simple bi-annual "Top to Bottom" checklist to keep your home in shape year round.

1. Roof: Check roof and around vents, skylights and chimneys for leaks. Repair as necessary.
2. Attic: If there is no ridge vent, keep gable vents open year-round to ensure proper ventilation.
3. Gutters: Clean gutters and drain pipes so leaves won't clog them and be sure they drain away from the house. (Fall: In cold-climate areas) Drain outside faucets.
4. Fireplace: Clean fireplace of ashes. (Fall) Check chimney for loose or missing mortar. Have chimney professionally cleaned. Make sure damper closes tightly. (Spring) Leave damper open for improved ventilation if the home is not air-conditioned
5. Filters: Remember to clean or replace filters once a month, or as needed. Check and clean dryer vent, air conditioner, stove hood and room fans. Keep heating and cooling vents clean and free from furniture and draperies.
6. Safety Equipment: Ensure that all smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers are in good working order. Replace batteries in appropriate devices as needed, or at least twice each year.
7. Air Conditioner: (Fall: In cold-climate areas) Remove window air-conditioners, or put weatherproof covers on them.
8. Refrigerator: Make sure your refrigerator door seals are airtight. Test them by closing the door over a dollar bill. If you can pull the bill out easily, the latch may need to be adjusted or the seal may need to be replaced. In addition, if you have a coil-back refrigerator, vacuum the coils at least twice each year. Your refrigerator will run more efficiently with clean coils. Also, stock up! A full refrigerator uses less energy than an empty one.
9. Faucets: Check for leaky faucets in kitchen and bathroom(s). Replace washers as necessary.
10. Windows and Doors: Seal drafty doors and windows. If you added up all of the small cracks where heating and cooling escapes from a home, it would be the same as having a window open. Replace seals as needed.
11. Storm Windows and Screens: (Fall) Take down screens (if removable type) and replace with storm windows. (Spring) Remove, clean, and store storm windows (if removable). Check and patch all door and window screens. Put screens up (if removable type).
12. Siding and Paint: Look for cracks and holes in house siding or paint. Replace caulk if necessary. A carpet knife can work well for cutting away old caulking from house siding. Slice down alongside it from both directions with the hook-like blade, then use the knife to lift out the old caulk bead intact.
13. Basement: Check basement walls and floor for dampness. Be sure to clean dehumidifier regularly, if you have one.
14. Heating System: (Fall) Have heating system serviced. Change filters.
15. Hot Water Heater: (Fall) Drain hot water heater. Remove sediment from the bottom of the tank.

Santa Cruz New Years Eve Event Guide

2008-12-26T10:27:00.000-08:00

Saturday

Jazz Birds' pre-New Year's Eve party: Sweet harmonies and hot jazz. Dinner served until 10 p.m. Reservations recommended. No cover. 7:30-10 p.m. Dec. 27. Peachwood's at Pasatiempo Inn, 555 Pasatiempo Drive, Santa Cruz. Call 426-6333.

The Big Night' New Year's Celebration: With finger food, wine and live music with big band Essence. 7 p.m. Dec. 27. Upstairs and downstairs. In Vino Veritas, 230-G Mt. Hermon Road, Scotts Valley. Call 461-0851 or visit www.invinoveritassv.com.

Tuesday

A pre-New Year's Eve bash: Cocoanut Grove, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz. Call 423-2053 for information and visit www.brownpapertickets.com/event/42130 for tickets.

Wednesday

Kaleidophone New Year's Eve Concert: Enjoy the majestic sounds of First Congregational Church's Aeolian-Skinner organ. Featured musicians include organists Vlada Volkova-Moran, Ann Thiermann, Bruce Sawhill, Larry Millsap and Colin Whitby-Strevens plus Tatyana Rekow on oboe, Joanne Tanner on violin, Hanna Beckham on viola and others performing a variety of solos, duets and ensembles. A traditional chocolate and champagne reception follows. 7 p.m. Dec. 31. Free will offering. First Congregational Church, 900 High St., Santa Cruz. Call 426-2010 or visit www.fccsantacruz.org.

Jazz Society of Santa Cruz County New Year's Eve party: With live dance music by the

Rachel Nelson-Smith Jazz Group and the Little Big Band. Formal dress requested. Door prizes given. Bring a dish to pass and BYOB. A lasagna main dish and dessert will be supplied plus champagne at midnight. Utensils provided. $25 per person. From 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. Dec. 31. Calvary Church Hall, Lincoln and Center streets, Santa Cruz. Call 426-8449 or email sgray@cruzio.com.

New Year's Eve with the Expendables: Plus Dirty Heads and Dirty Penny. 21+. $25 advance/$30 door. Doors 8 p.m.; show 9 p.m. Dec. 31. The Catalyst, 1011 Pacific Ave., Santa Cruz. Visit www.catalystclub.com.

Sourgrass and Wooster: A New Year's Eve CD-release celebration. 21+. $12 advance/$15 door. 9 p.m. Dec. 31. Moe's Alley, 1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz. Visit www.moesalley.com.

New Year's Eve with the Sun Kings: A tribute to the Beatles. $25. 9 p.m. Dec. 31. Don Quixote's, 6275 Highway 9, Felton. Visit www.donquixotesmusic.com.

New Year' Eve Ball with Harry and the Hitmen: Live music. $5. From 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Dec. 31. The Crepe Place, 1134 Soquel Ave., Santa Cruz. Visit www.thecrepeplace.com.

New Year's Eve with the Koz: Live music. Dec. 31. The Windjammer, 1 Rancho del Mar, Aptos. Call 685-1587.

New Year's Eve with Beat Street: Dec. 31. Michael's on Main, 2591 Main St., Soquel. Visit www.michaelsonmain.net.

New Year's Party with Nightlife: Live music. From 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Dec. 31. Coaster's Lounge, Boardwalk Bowl, Santa Cruz. Visit www.boardwalkbowl.com

New Year's Eve with the Joel Nelson Orchestra: A New Year's Eve party with prime rib buffet and dessert extravaganza plus music for dancing and a countdown. Dec. 31. Cocoanut Grove, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Call 423-2053 or visit www.cocoanutgrovesantacruz.com.

New Year's Party with Extra Large: Live music. 21+. Dec. 31. The Crow's Nest, 2218 E. Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz. Visit www.crowsnest-santacruz.com.

New Year's Eve with the Joint Chiefs: Dec. 31. Brookdale Inn, 11570 Highway 9, Brookdale. Call 338-1300 or visit www.brookdaleinnandspa.com.

The Last Night DIY Parade and Street Party: The fourth-annual do-it-yourself grassroots celebration features jugglers, clowns, samba drums, pirates, bikes and marching bands. Meet at 5 p.m. Dec. 31 near the Saturn Cafe parking lot on Pacific Avenue and Spruce Street to join the DIY parade. Visit www.lastnightdiy.org.

New Year's Eve with Joe Ferrara: From 8 p.m. to midnight. Shadowbrook Restaurant, 1750 Wharf Road, Capitola. Call 475-1511.

New Year's Eve dinner and dancing: With a four course dinner for $69 per person or a room and dinner special for $229 per couple plus dancing from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. with music by the Road Hogs. Dec. 31. Severino's, 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos. Call 688-8987.

Thursday

New Year's Day potluck and dance: With a potluck and social hour followed by dancing to the live music of the Rainbows. Bring a dish to share. $3. 1 p.m. Jan. 1. Mid-County Senior Center, 829 Bay Ave., Capitola. Call 476-4711.

Home Renovation Grants

2008-12-24T11:54:00.000-08:00

Home Renovation Grants are available to you as a homeonwer.
You may ask yourself what types of grants are available for home renovation?
Here is just a sample:
Home renovation grants
Home improvement grants
Home repair grants
Energy efficiency for heating and cooling
Housing vouchers
and much more....
Who can apply?
Anyone can apply for a grant or financial aid, as long as you are a US citizen aged 18 or over.
Getting money through a bank can be very time consuming and requires a lot of paperwork, only to find out you have been denied. Government agencies and local organizations do not have to operate under the same stringent requirements that banks do.
You decide how much money you need, and as long as it meets the government agencies or local organizati lang=en-ca>s, the money is yours!
None of these programs require a credit check, security deposits or co signers, you can apply even if you have a bankruptcy or bad credit, it doesn't matter. You as tax payer are entitled to this money.
How it works:
You fill out the quick questionnaire which takes only 2 minutes. (You do not need to provide us with personal information such as your social security number or credit card number).
A Grant Officer, who has access to a database of hundreds of government grant programs, will evaluate your application. There is no charge for this service.
If you file is retained, an advisor will contact you by steps you need to take to receive federal grant or loan money.
Check your eligibility by filling in the form on the left.
It's simple and takes only 2 minutes!

Click here to apply online!

2008-12-16T20:27:00.000-08:00

Man with Tools is a local network of skilled tradesman,
who offer you money saving options for all of your handyman home
repair and construction needs!
Man with Tools was developed by local professionals who
understand the need for reliable service and economical options for our community!