In our area, the recommend r value is r-49 based on the evaluation of the department of energy, here is the link http://www.ornl.gov/~roofs/Zip/ZipHome.html. Most building departments require r-30 to r-38. So it is very likely that your home is under insulated. Adding insulation could be a great way to save on energy bills and it is a project that most handy homeowners could tackle on their own with the help of a good friend.
First off let’s start off with your washing machine, and your toilet supply lines. For your washing machine, there are two high pressure water lines, one hot and one cold. Look for bulges, cracks or frays on the lines; if these hoses rupture, it can flood a room very fast. If they are frayed or have bulges, replace them. For around $10 you can save yourself a big headache and replace them; on average these lines last about 2-3 years. On your toilet, although this line is not high pressure, it can flood a room quick; look for the same things you did for the washing machine. These are the leading cause of water losses in the home.
Hamilton County, Ohio states: A permit is required for new buildings and additions, all major repairs, alterations, swimming pools, installation of signs, installation, alteration or replacement of heating equipment and/or air conditioning equipment.
This is just one of the eight counties Clarke Contractors does business. Every county, city, and township is different. With eight counties and hundreds of localities how do we know when to pull a permit? The answer is simple: ‘CALL THEM.’ Here is a list of the eight counties building department phone numbers:
This is the time of year when everyone needs to think about a commonly overlooked vital piece of equipment for their home, the Sump Pump. We seldom think about it until it has failed and have two feet of water in the basement.
Although not really common in the Greater Cincinnati area, about every 7-10 years ice damming is something we have to deal with.
A common misconception about ice damming is that it is a faulty roof; total misconception. I have taken quite a few calls in the last week, from policy holders, stating that they had their roofs replaced during the Hurricane Ike windstorm, and they think it’s a warranty issue with their roofing contractor.