Wood flooring adds warmth, beauty and value to a home. Its durability is another big factor; hardwood floors can withstand heavy foot traffic and are relatively easy to maintain compared to other flooring options. Hardwood floors also offer design versatility, complementing both traditional and modern interior aesthetics. Here’s an overview of how a typical installation will go.   Solid Wood vs. Engineered When it comes to selecting your next wood floor, it’s important to understand the types available. Solid hardwood boards are made of a single piece of wood. Engineered hardwood flooring is made of a top layer of real hardwood over a dimensionally stable core made from plywood, MDF, lumber core, or stone-polymer composite. This core is less susceptible to warping and gapping than solid wood. Both options offer beauty and style but can perform differently and require different installation techniques. Solid hardwood, which is available in unfinished and prefinished options, is not recommended for below-ground areas such as basements or moisture-prone areas such as bathrooms, whereas engineered hardwood flooring can better withstand moisture exposure. In terms of longevity, solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished over the years to renew its appearance. Engineered hardwood can be sanded to some degree, but if the thin veneer layer of hardwood is sanded through, then the inner core will be exposed in the floorboard.   Installation Options Research the installation method for the specific type of wood flooring to decide if it’s a DIY-friendly product or if you should consult a pro installer. Common installation techniques include for solid hardwood flooring include nail-down, staple-down, and glue-down. Ambitious DIY’ers might consider renting floor nailers or staplers for installation, but glue-down flooring is best left to the pros. Engineered flooring is often sold as floating floor systems with click-together installation, which is more DIY-friendly for inexperienced installers.   Subfloor Preparation It is critical to understand that the subfloor must be properly prepped before beginning any new installation. The subfloor must be clean, dry, and level with no hills or dips. Fill any low spots with a leveling compound and sand down any high spots. Check for signs of moisture or water damage and address the underlying issue before installing the floor. With the subfloor exposed, take the opportunity to walk it over and search for any nail squeaks. If you find any, screw down the subfloor tightly to the floor joints to arrest movement and eliminate the squeak. For areas with high moisture, such as basements or concrete subfloors, install a moisture barrier over the subfloor. Consult the product specifications of your flooring for specific recommendations. Engineered flooring may require a poly underlayment. Other options are a silicone vapor shield or plywood underlayment. As shown here, you should fill any low spots with a floor-leveling compound to ensure a flat subfloor. Products are available in self-leveling formulas or as compounds that can be troweled smoothly onto the subfloor. Acclimation Prior to installation, it’s important to acclimate your wood flooring. This simply means storing the flooring in the same room it will be installed for about 48 hours (check product recommendations for time duration). This step allows the wood to adjust to the room's temperature and moisture conditions. Doing this helps prevent performance issues over time. Prior to installation, it's important to store the flooring where it will be installed, so the wood can acclimate to its new environment and ensure long-term performance.   Plan the Layout Installation time will depend on the size of the room, the complexity of the layout, and the method of installation. If the installation involves stapling or nailing, it’s best to lay flooring perpendicular to the subfloor's joists. If you would rather fasten the flooring parallel to the subfloor joists, you'll need to fasten a secondary layer of 15/32-in. plywood panels to the subfloor using ring-shank nails or screws.    Most flooring installations begin at the longest, most visibly prevalent straight wall, which will serve as a control point for installing the boards. Plan for full-size planks for your first row, because it serves as the floor’s focal point. Next, measure and mark the expansion space, which is the space between the walls and the flooring. An expansion space allows the wood to expand and contract, which occurs naturally with temperature and humidity changes, without causing damage to the floor. Plastic spacers can be used to maintain an expansion space around the edges of the floor during installation. The size of the expansion gap depends on the floor's performance and characteristics. Check the Warranty, Installation, and Care (WIC) guide for your flooring’s expansion space measurements. To guide installation, use a chalk line or a long straight edge to mark long, straight line along the expansion gap which aligns the first flooring row evenly with the wall.   Next, determine the width of the last row by measuring the room and dividing by the width of the boards. If you determine the last row will be too small (a sliver of boards), then rip the first row to a thinner width on a table saw before installing. This will allow more space for the last row, for an attractive, balanced installation once completed. Plan and note how you’ll install the planks around features such as kitchen islands, fireplaces, doors, cabinets, and room transitions. Boards will need to be cut to fit around doorways, corners and HVAC registers. A miter or table saw will make this easier, as can a jigsaw or buzz-cutter (oscillating multi-tool). A buzz-cutter equipped with a flush-cutting blade also makes a good tool to undercut door casing which extends downward too far to fit the flooring beneath it. If this is the case, use a scrap of the new floor as a gauge to guide the oscillating blade and cross-cut the door casing just short enough to fit the new floor. If there’s not enough clearance beneath door casing to fit the new flooring, use a scrap of the new flooring as a blade guide and flush-cut the casing shorter with an oscillating multi-tool. The model shown here is the Dremel Multi-Max . Using plastic spacers between the boards and the wall, lay the first row of flooring along the guide-line and proceed with installation.   Click-Together Flooring Click-together flooring utilizes a fastener-free installation method in which tongue-and-groove joints connect with the aid of a mallet and tapping block.  The click mechanism can vary among type, so refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for specific guidance. It’s typically easier to connect the long joint first and then follow by connecting the end joints. Always stagger the end joints of the boards by several inches to strengthen the installation and reduce the appearance of repeating patterns.   Fastened Flooring Some wood flooring is installed with glue or fasteners. When installing tongue-and-groove boards, consult the manufacturer’s information specific guidance, which might require you to gently push the board back and down to ensure a snug fit. Use a tapping block and mallet to fully engage the tongue and groove. As you install the sequential boards, fit the groove of each new plank onto the tongue of the previous row. Be sure to eliminate any gaps between the boards. Space nails according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals along the length of each board. Avoid nailing too close to the end of the boards, which will cause splitting. If necessary, use a nail set to tap the nail heads below the wood surface.   Many professionals prefer to use the two-pronged approach of a flooring stapler, driving the large staples “blind-nail” style into the tongue-and-groove joints, which conceals the fasteners between the floorboards. At the last row, you may need to use a pull bar to ensure a tight fit between boards. Insert the pull bar into the groove side of the plank and tap it toward the flooring to join the boards and close the joint. After installation is complete, use wood filler or putty that matches the color of the flooring to fill in any visible nail holes. A pneumatic flooring stapler or nailer is a compressor-driven tool that is actuated by the tap of a mallet. Rental centers usually have these tools available for flooring jobs, but if you have a lot of flooring to do, consider purchasing your own.

(guest post by Nick Lopez, CEO and Founder of LIME Painting ) Owning a home is one of the most significant investments many of us will ever make. It’s not just a place to live but a substantial financial and treasured asset. Ensuring that your home appreciates over time is foundational for a home, and one of the most effective ways to achieve this is through restoration and repainting. Whether your home is meant for generational living or to sell to make profit, staying on top of maintenance will save you a lot of money for unexpected repairs in the future.  Maintaining Your Home’s Exterior First impressions matter, and when it comes to your home, the exterior is the first thing people see. A well-maintained exterior not only boosts curb appeal but also reflects the care and attention given to the entire property. According to the National Association of Realtors, a quality paint job can add significant value to your home. It’s often the simplest and most cost-effective way to improve its appearance and marketability. Restoration and repainting go beyond mere aesthetics. They play a pivotal role in preserving the structural integrity of your home. Regular maintenance prevents issues like wood rot, mold, and mildew, which can compromise the building’s structure if left unchecked. By addressing these problems early through restoration, homeowners can avoid costly repairs down the line. Strategic Renovations When we consider renovations, it’s essential to focus on those that offer the best return on investment (ROI). According to Bankrate, certain home renovations stand out for their ability to recoup costs at resale.  For instance, garage door replacements top the list with a 102.7 percent ROI, while a minor kitchen remodel offers an impressive 81.1 percent ROI. These statistics underscore the importance of targeted improvements that not only enhance living conditions but also significantly increase home value. Exterior improvements, in particular, are among the most valuable renovations. These include new siding, which offers a 76.7 percent ROI, and window replacements, with a 72.3 percent ROI. Such projects improve energy efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance the home’s overall aesthetic, making it more attractive to potential buyers. High-Quality Painting for Home Value Enhancement A high-quality paint job is one of the most impactful renovations you can undertake. It is relatively low-cost but delivers substantial benefits. Fresh paint can transform the look of a home, making it appear newer, cleaner, and more appealing. According to Zillow, homes with newly painted exteriors can fetch up to 5% more than those without. At LIME Painting, we emphasize the importance of using high-quality materials and professional techniques. Poorly executed paint jobs can do more harm than good, potentially causing issues like peeling or bubbling that require further repairs. We ensure our projects not only meet but exceed industry standards, providing a finish that lasts and adds real value to the home. Pride of Ownership Beyond financial benefits, restoring and repainting your home can significantly enhance your quality of life. There’s a profound sense of satisfaction that comes from living in a well-maintained, beautiful home. It can boost your mood, create a more enjoyable living environment, and foster a sense of pride in your property. This personal satisfaction can’t be quantified in dollars but is undeniably valuable. A beautifully restored and freshly painted home also creates a positive impression, suggesting to buyers that the property has been well cared for and is move-in ready. This can speed up the sale process and even attract higher offers. Comprehensive Approach to Home Improvement When considering home improvements, it’s beneficial to take a comprehensive approach. Combining painting with other high-ROI renovations can amplify the overall impact on your home’s value. For example, pairing a fresh paint job with new siding or energy-efficient windows not only updates the look but also improves functionality and energy efficiency. These synergistic improvements can create a cohesive, appealing aesthetic while boosting the home's market value. Restoring and repainting your home is more than just a cosmetic update; it’s a strategic investment in your property’s future. By choosing high-quality materials and professional services, you can enhance curb appeal, protect structural integrity, and increase market value. These improvements not only provide financial returns but also enrich your living experience and foster a sense of pride in homeownership. Whether you’re preparing to sell or simply want to enjoy a beautiful home, investing in quality improvements is a decision worth investing in. For more information on how to boost your home’s value through strategic renovations, visit www.limepainting.com .    Quick Tips for DIY House Painters Prepare the surface to be painted:  LIME Painting recommends thoroughly cleaning the exterior of your home prior to priming and painting. Homeowners can use a power washer to remove layers of grime and weathering, and to get rid of chipping paint. Furthermore, it is important to cover or remove all lights, windows, or fixtures that may get in the way while painting. Choose the paint that is perfect for your home: Consider the right finish, color, and formula for your specific home—paint for bricks will look and feel a lot different than paint for stucco or wood. The climate and environment will also determine what kind of paint will be able to protect your home. Use the proper techniques and tools:  LIME recommends you paint from top to bottom in long, even strokes to catch and distribute heavier gobs of paint as you work. Investing in high-quality brushes or a paint sprayer will help with applying an even coat of paint. Don’t forget the trim, shudders and doors:  It’s important to make sure all the areas of your exterior are looking bright and refreshed, not just the main structure. Picking out the perfect paint for accents on the home such as the front door, garage, trim and window shutters can make a huge difference in the end product. Check the weather:  This one may seem obvious, but it can be hasty to spend one day painting a home only to see it wash away in a thunderstorm the next. Make sure the weather is clear not just on the day you plan on painting, but for the day or so after that it will take for the paint to dry.

Runner-up in the 2024 Alabama Remodeling Awards , the “Edgewood Exterior Project” was part of a comprehensive whole-home remodel by Precision Homecrafters , a design/build and home-remodeling firm serving the greater Birmingham, Alabama market. The homeowner's goal was to remain in the home for the long term. The project requirements were to reconfigure the floor plan to comfortably support their lifestyle, remodel the interior to be timelessly elegant, and easy to use and maintain. There was also an explicit requirement to build in accessibility to future-proof the investment against any potential mobility issues that might arise later on. "As general advice for your readers, we strongly encourage building accessibility into their current projects," says VP Marketing for Precision Homecrafters , Tom Coan "Even if there is no current need, there are inexpensive things that can be done during building or remodeling to make future accommodations convenient and inexpensive should they be needed. A small example is putting an abundance of blocking behind shower walls to attach grab bars."   Meeting the overall project requirements on the exterior meant adding parking on the main floor level for accessibility. (The house is built on a hill with the only parking area being downhill and requiring stairs to get to the main level.) This new parking arrangement also needed to be covered because of frequent rain. A beautiful, covered back porch was needed to meet the clients’ lifestyle goals, and Precision Homecrafters added a main-floor-accessible elevated walkway to the detached guest house. Of course, it all had to be beautiful and easy to maintain. Unique Challenges The soil at the front porch/walkway area was back-fill from the original construction. It did not have sufficient bearing capacity to accommodate the typical post-to-beam construction technique to carry the new front walkway roof. The solution was to custom design roof framing to work in combination with functional, fir corbels to make a structurally sound system with the desired warm, organic design elements.   Craftsmanship The back porch is a masterful display of form following function in a soaring, open and beautiful outdoor living area. Every structural component is on display and cut and joined with a level of precision that puts most porches’ finish carpentry to shame. Together, it is a blend of architecture, engineering and craftsmanship that is rare in residential construction. "Our favorite aspect of the project is without a doubt the happiness of our clients, says Coan. "Many trades businesses are composed of 'construction-thing-oriented' people who have the capacity to deal with customers. Precision Homecrafters is composed of 'relationship-oriented' people who have the capacity to deal with construction things. When we meet the full range of our clients’ goals, as we did with this project, and part as friends, we’ve achieved our highest purpose as a company." For more, visit www.precisionhomecrafters.com .

(guest post by Valerie Smith) We love our furry friends, but sometimes they do a number on our lawns—digging up gardens, leaving behind waste, you name it. Dealing with unwanted canine visitors in your yard can be quite the headache. Luckily, there are several effective ways to keep dogs out of your yard. Whether you’re looking into various dog repellents or other solutions, there’s definitely a method that can help restore peace to your outdoor space. Here, we'll explore the best dog repellents for yards. Commercial Repellents These products are available as sprays, granules or even high-tech solutions like electronic devices, all designed to keep dogs out of your yard. Spray and granule options often use smells that dogs find offensive but are harmless, perfect for perimeter use or spot treatments. Electronic repellents, like ultrasonic devices, offer a harmless deterrent. For effective sprays, look for ingredients like capsaicin or garlic. Products like Liquid Fence Dog and Cat Repellent and Nature’s Mace are popular choices among homeowners for keeping dogs at bay. DIY Ultrasonic Dog Repeller These devices emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant for dogs but inaudible to humans. They can be an effective deterrent when placed strategically around your yard. Try placing it in areas where dogs are most likely to enter like entrances and gates, around the perimeter of your lawn, near flower beds or gardens, along fence lines, near trash bins or around your patio. Mothballs Mothballs can help keep dogs off your lawn since they release a strong smell that dogs dislike. Place them strategically around your yard to create a barrier with their pungent odor. However, be careful—mothballs contain harmful chemicals. Make sure to put them in spots where pets, wildlife and kids can’t get to them. Always prioritize safety and handle mothballs responsibly. Natural Repellents Besides commercial products, many natural ingredients can effectively keep dogs out of your yard. These natural solutions are not only effective but also safe for the environment and wildlife, making them a great choice if you’re looking for sustainable options. Marigolds and Herbs Planting marigolds, lavender, citronella and other aromatic herbs around your yard’s edge can naturally repel dogs with their strong scents. These plants not only keep dogs at bay but also beautify your garden. Marigolds, in particular, have a unique smell that dogs dislike, while lavender and rosemary’s robust fragrances work well as deterrents. Plus, these plants are low-maintenance and adaptable to various climates, making them a practical and attractive choice for keeping dogs away. Vinegar, Citrus, Coffee Grounds and Pepper Using natural items like vinegar, citrus peels, coffee grounds and cayenne pepper can be an effective and eco-friendly way to deter dogs from your lawn. Vinegar and citrus peels give off strong scents that dogs generally avoid. Coffee grounds, while deterring dogs with their aroma, also enrich your soil with nitrogen. Sprinkling cayenne pepper around can irritate a dog’s nose, keeping them away. You can use these substances alone or together to create a dog-repellent environment without harming them or the ecosystem. Create Barriers & Boundaries Physical barriers are a solid choice for keeping dogs out of your yard. Adding fences or enclosures helps block entry while keeping your space looking good. You can boost their effectiveness by integrating natural elements, enhancing both the barrier function and the beauty of your landscape. Motion-Activated Sprinklers Motion-activated sprinklers are a great and humane way to keep dogs off your lawn. They detect movement within a set range and spray a burst of water at the intruding animal. This sudden spray startles dogs and discourages them from coming back. It’s a safe method since it uses no harmful chemicals, protecting both the environment and animals. Plus, you can adjust the sprinklers’ sensitivity and range to suit your yard’s layout perfectly. Fencing and Borders Fencing and borders are great for keeping dogs out of your lawn. Planting thorny bushes like roses or hawthorns naturally deters dogs with their sharp edges. Alternatively, using chicken wire or bamboo stakes can block access effectively without standing out too much. A low fence also works well as a clear boundary that most dogs won’t try to cross, especially if it blocks their view into your yard, cutting down their curiosity. Collaborative Measures Finally, working with your neighbors can be a key part of the solution: Talk to Dog Owners Chatting with dog owners in your neighborhood can be a friendly way to keep dogs off your lawn. By sharing your concerns, you can foster mutual understanding and cooperation, encouraging owners to keep their dogs leashed or direct them to more suitable play areas. This direct communication not only builds community relations but also often leads to a respectful resolution that benefits everyone, helping your lawn stay undisturbed and keeping the peace. Post Signage Putting up signs is a simple and effective way to keep dogs off your lawn. A friendly but clear sign asking owners to keep their dogs off the grass, like “Please Keep Dogs Off the Lawn” or “Paws Off Please!” can work wonders. You can use signs on their own or alongside other humane deterrents such as motion-activated sprinklers or natural repellents. This approach helps protect your outdoor space while keeping things friendly with pet owners in the neighborhood. These methods offer a humane way to maintain a dog-free yard, but after you’ve taken steps to keep dogs out, it’s time to repair any lawn damage. Consider using Lawnifi Recover Fertilizer  to rejuvenate stressed grass and promote healthy growth. This specialized fertilizer delivers nutrients efficiently, helping your lawn bounce back quickly. Perfect for fixing wear and tear from pets, Lawnifi Recover ensures your grass gets back to being lush and green. -- Editor's Note: Valerie Smith is content strategist for Sod Solutions. To learn more about achieving a great lawn, check out more Sod University tips here .

(guest post by Valerie Smith) It’s almost summertime, and if you have a warm season lawn (like St. Augustine, bermuda, zoysia or centipede), this is the prime growing season. That also means it’s prime mowing season! To mow your lawn less during the summer for warm season grasses like St. Augustine, bermuda, zoysia, and centipede, consider these options: Mulch mow weekly to reduce time by 20 percent, mow and bag every other week to save 50 percent but maintain a clean look, or mulch mow every other week to save 60 percent in mowing time if a pristine appearance isn’t a priority. Option 1: Mulch and Mow Weekly To reduce your total mowing time by about 20 percent, eliminate the time required to stop and bag clippings. If your mower has a mulch setting, use it instead. If your mower doesn’t have a mulch option, simply mow without bagging. This only works if you mow weekly, as leaving un-bagged clippings can create an unsightly appearance if allowed to dry and accumulate. Option 2: Mow and Bag Every Other Week Another option is to mow every other week and bag the clippings. This can reduce your mowing time by 50 percent, but you’ll need to bag the clippings to maintain a clean look. The downside is that if you miss a mowing due to rain or vacation, you’ll need to remove almost twice as much leaf blade the following week. This can be problematic, as removing more than a third of the total leaf blade at once is not advisable. If you miss a mowing using this strategy, you may need to mow twice the following week, each time removing half as much, to get back to your normal mowing height. Option 3: Mulch and Mow Every Other Week If you’re less concerned about a pristine look and just want to keep your grass presentable, you can mulch and mow every other week. This will save you 60% in mowing time. Regardless of which strategy you choose, it’s recommended you mow your lawn at the highest recommended height for your grass type. To illustrate the time savings: Helpful Tip: Alter Your Fertilizer Inputs To further reduce mowing, consider a lawn fertility program that promotes greenness without excessive leaf growth. Look for products that don’t rely heavily on nitrogen, like the Lawnifi Summer Fertilizer Box, a liquid fertilizer that is efficient, effective and easy to use. Ultimately, there are a variety of options at your disposal to reduce mowing inputs during the hot summer months. A part of having a thriving, beautiful lawn means it will want to grow—so frequent mowing is a must. These strategies are great options to reduce mowing and the time spent outside without causing any damage or harm to your lawn. -- Editor's Note: This article was written by Sod Solutions Content Strategist, Valerie Smith. To view this article on Sod Solutions website, click here. Want to learn more about achieving a great lawn? Check out more Sod University tips here and subscribe to the weekly newsletter.

(guest post by By Bryce Geib) Professional Advice for Choosing the Right Water Heater Many homeowners never think about their water heater until there’s a problem. A leak or equipment failure can grab your attention quickly—and may result in costly emergency repair or unexpected and inconvenient emergency replacement. When you consider that many water heaters could provide reliable hot water for a decade or longer, choosing one for your home is not a minor decision. Stressful circumstances are not the ideal time for selecting the right water heater to meet your family’s needs. It’s best to think about your next water heater while the one you have is still in good working condition. Taking time and working closely with a trusted plumbing professional can help homeowners identify a water heating solution designed specifically to meet their needs and maximize comfort and value. If you’ve never given a lot of consideration to your water heater, you may not be aware of all the options available. Tank-style—Storage tank water heaters keep a reservoir of water heated and ready for normal, everyday use. There are multiple types of water heaters in this grouping, including heat pump water heaters and indirect water heaters. Instead of generating heat directly, heat pump water heaters shift energy from one place to another to heat your home’s water supply. Indirect water heaters use a home’s space heating system to heat water. Tankless—Tankless water heaters are another major category. Tankless water heaters directly heat water in response to demand from faucets or appliances, without storing a ready supply until it is needed. Additionally, water heating technology can rely on one of multiple energy sources. Electric and natural gas are the most common sources of energy for water heaters, but many others are available, including propane and solar. Each water heater category has specific benefits, depending on your needs and a variety of other conditions. The right solution depends on many factors, including your own personal priorities—energy efficiency, cost, or supplying for a growing family. Options in water heaters include tankless styles, conventional tank styles, heat pump water heaters, and more. Image courtesy Bradford White Corp. It’s important to remember, however, that this is a major decision for your home. A trained and experienced plumber who understands today’s water heating technology and its real-world applications is the best guide through this complex process. A qualified professional is essential during the process of identifying and installing the right water heater. Skilled and trained professional plumbers can expertly evaluate the various factors that will shape your selection, helping you understand the product specifications and features. Homeowners and their trusted plumbing professionals should consider the following factors when selecting a new water heater for home installation: ·       Sizing: The first factor to consider is size. It’s essential to identify and install a water heater appropriately sized for the space and demands of your home. How many people live in the home? How many bathrooms are there? Plumbing professionals have access to reliable, up-to-date sizing calculation tools that can help find the right sized equipment for your home. Don’t forget that specialized or luxury appliances and fixtures, such as a hot tub or high-pressure shower head, can affect the calculation. ·       Infrastructure: The energy grid supplying your home can determine which products will work best for you and your family. In states and municipalities that are heavily regulating the use of natural gas, demand for electric water heaters is rising. (Editor’s Note: Most electric models require a 220- to 240-volt electrical circuit, so it's important to check the home's electrical panel to ensure it can handle the additional load.) In areas where natural gas is a common energy source, gas water heaters can be a convenient option with excellent long-term value. Often, installation of a different category of water heater may require home upgrades and renovations. ·       Application: The physical location of the water heater in the home and what it will be used for can play a big role in selecting the right equipment. Tankless water heaters may work well in smaller homes, where space is limited. However, the same tankless water heater may not be able to supply adequate hot water for a family in a larger home with more bathrooms and fixtures that they plan to run simultaneously. Shown are the basic configurations of tank-style water heaters. Many homeowners are concerned about both the rising costs of energy and their impact on the global environment, so energy efficiency continues to be a priority. Here are some ratings and guides that can help you identify the most efficient products—but remember that energy consumption will depend on a range of many other factors, so discuss any efficiency claims with your plumbing professional. ·       Uniform Energy Factor:  Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) refers to a water heater’s efficiency under standardized operating conditions and is determined by a simulated use test specified by the U.S. Department of Energy. When compared to similar products of the same fuel type, a water heater with a higher UEF rating uses less energy. ·       EnergyGuide: EnergyGuide labels are easy to read and relate to. The familiar yellow labels show an estimate of how much energy a water heater uses and how that compares to similar equipment. The label also shows estimated annual operating costs. The estimates are based on typical use patterns and a national average for energy prices. ·       Thermal/Recovery Efficiency: Looking more closely at specific products, you’ll notice thermal efficiency ratings or recovery efficiency ratings, which measure how much of the energy generated or transferred by a water heater is expended directly on the heating of water. The higher the number, the more efficient the water heater is. For example, if a water heater is 80 percent thermal efficient, 80 percent of the energy that powers the heater is applied directly to heating water. High-efficiency products can deliver around 90-percent thermal efficiency or higher. For gas water heaters, thermal efficiency depends on the heat exchanger design of each model. Electric water heaters, on the other hand, provide uniform thermal efficiency of 98 percent. Water heaters may not be a high priority for many homeowners. But installing a water heater that’s not suited for your home can be a source of stress and inconvenience for several years. Inefficiency could result in unnecessarily high energy costs, and poor configuration could add excess wear and tear, meaning you may have to replace it sooner. On the other hand, working closely with an experienced qualified professional to find and install the right water heater can help ensure you and your family experience value, comfort, and peace of mind for years to come. Author bio: Bryce Geib is team lead – product application specialist at Bradford White Corporation, an industry-leading manufacturer of water heaters, boilers and storage tanks. SIDE NOTE 1 How does a Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH) work? It's generally easier to move something than to make something. Putting that principle to use, HPWHs use electricity to move heat from one place to another instead of generating heat directly. A HPWH takes the heat from surrounding air and transfers it to water in an enclosed tank. During periods of high hot water demand, HPWHs automatically switch to standard electric resistance heat (hence they are often referred to as “hybrid” hot water heaters). HPWHs come with control panels that allow you to select from different operating modes. Note that installations of heat pump water heaters which have earned the Energy Star are eligible for a tax credit in the United States. Homeowners can claim 30 percent of the project cost or a maximum of $2,000. — Source: www.energy.gov SIDE NOTE 2 How does an indirect water heater work? Instead of using electric or gas heating elements in the storage tank itself, indirect water heaters use heat-transfer coils that run between the tank and either a boiler or furnace. The fluid in the coil is heated and then cools off in the water tank, cycling back through to the heat source. SIDE NOTE 3 What is an expansion tank for water heaters? An expansion tank is a small secondary tank that is connected to the water supply pipe of the water heater. The expansion tank is designed to handle the thermal expansion of water as it heats up in the water heater, equalizing water pressure throughout the plumbing system to prevent excessive pressure. Image courtesy Bradford White Corp. SIDE NOTE 4 Why You Should Insulate Hot Water Pipes Insulating your hot water pipes reduces heat loss and can raise water temperature 2°F to 4°F hotter than uninsulated pipes can deliver, allowing you to lower your water temperature setting. You also won't have to wait as long for hot water when you turn on a faucet or showerhead, which helps conserve water. If there are uninsulated water pipes in or near exterior walls, they can burst in freezing weather, which can be catastrophic. Having the insulation done during new construction of a home, during other work on your water heater or pipes, or insulating the pipes yourself, is well worth the effort. In special cases, such as when the fuel used for heating water is very expensive, the distance traveled by the pipes is far, the pipes are exposed to very cold air (in which case they should be insulated anyway to prevent freezing), and if the household uses a lot of water, much higher energy savings can be obtained. — Source: www.energy.gov -- Wait! There's more to learn: Water Heater Tray Full of Water! What's My Next Move?

A water heater tray or "pan" is a plastic tray which sits right beneath your water heater tank to catch any water that leaks. It serves as a first line of defense for your flooring in the event that something is wrong with your water heater. If the pan is collecting water, it indicates a problem. Check for these issues. Loose plumbing connection: If you spot any dripping pipe connections, you can try tightening the fittings with a wrench or call a plumber to do it for you. Tightening a threaded connection might solve the problem. Problem with a valve: A tank-style water heater has a drain valve and a temperature-pressure relief (TPR) valve. The drain valve at the bottom of the tank opens to remove any sediment buildup. Check the drain valve by wiping it with a paper towel. If it dampens the towel, carefully tighten the valve with your hand. If the water stops, then the valve was partially open, and closing it should solve the problem. If the valve is still dripping after you’ve tightened it, you’ll need to replace it. A leaking TPR valve could be a bigger problem. The TPR valve should open automatically to release hot water when the tank gets too hot or too much pressure builds up, so avoid touching it with your hand. The TPR valve is found near the top of the tank and is connected to a pipe that runs down toward the floor. Touch the bottom of the downpipe with a paper towel. If it dampens the towel, the valve should be replaced. Tank corrosion: Inspect the water that’s collecting in the pan. If it has a rusty color, this could indicate internal tank corrosion. If water is breaching the corroded tank, then it's only a matter of time before the problem worsens. It's best to replace the water heater before the tank empties inside the house. The tank can be drained by first disconnecting the power and water supply, connecting a garden hose to the water heater's drain valve, and running the hose to a drain or a downhill slope outside the house before opening the valve. Flue condensation: On gas-fired water heaters, combustion causes water vapor which should flow through the flue, but if the flue is too long and doesn't get hot enough to cause evaporation, the vapor will condense and drip when the water collects. Condensation can lead to corrosion in the water heater, so if signs are present, call an HVAC technician. -- Wait! There's more to learn: Choosing a Water Heater

DCK Tools has been manufacturing power tools for decades. Already the leading power tool brand in the Asian market, the company has now launched their own line in the U.S., and they’re bringing serious competition. The DCK plan is to “disrupt” the American tool market by offering equal or better-quality tools at a lower price point than the competitors. The HIR staff got the opportunity to test the new DCK KRH20V-26 cordless rotary hammer, and it is built to deliver. With heavy-duty construction in a compact, lightweight package (7 lbs.), it has a maintenance-free DC brushless motor powered by a 20V 8Ah li-ion battery. It makes quick work of tough jobs, like drilling through concrete slabs or block walls. The DVR Handle Shock Absorption System is designed for comfortable use when working for long hours, and the double anti-twist safety features a mechanical clutch and electronic anti-twist hand protection to ensure operator safety. The KRH20V-26 comes standard with an SDS-Plus quick-change chuck and a KDE20V-16 cordless dust extractor, which is equipped with a HEPA filter. This high-quality rotary hammer includes a depth gauge and all the essential accessories, including a carrying case. All DCK power tools are covered by a 3-year warranty against defects in material or workmanship. Fine more info at https://www.dcktool.com/ #powertools #cordlesstools #rotaryhammer #contractor #contractors #remodel #remodeling #homebuilder #homebuilding #concrete #concretework #dcktools #contractorsofinsta #builder #builders #newtools #toolreview #construction #skilledtrades #toolsofthetrade #toolsofmytrade #renovation

(guest post by Ed Quinlan) Carpets can be one of the best flooring options for many homes. In addition to their cozy aesthetic and comforting plush texture, carpets help filter the air inside your home by effectively trapping dirt and allergens. This keeps irritants from entering the air you breathe. However, without regular vacuuming and professional cleanings, dirty carpets will become full and unable to trap additional dirt and grime. Carpets should be vacuumed on a weekly basis, or two or three times a week in homes with children and pets. Even if your carpet looks and feels clean, carpet fibers can be damaged from exposure to dust, dirt, and other particles. If left uncleaned, traffic patterns will begin to form, making your carpets look worn and dirty. Here are the best ways to prevent stains from setting and easy ways you can keep your carpets clean, along with the benefits of regular carpet cleaning. Cleaning Spots and Spills to Avoid Staining Most stains are water-based or oil-based. While these two stain types require different cleaning and removal techniques, all you need to remember is the term “like dissolves like.” In other words, water-based spots are more effectively removed with a water-based product and oil-based spots are more effectively removed with a solvent-based product. Before using any cleaning agent, make sure to physically remove as much of the substance from your carpet as possible by blotting with a white towel. Once you have completed this crucial step, apply a mild, neutral pH cleaner. If you’re not sure how to categorize a spot or what product to use on it, it may be a good idea to call a professional carpet cleaning company. When you do, you won’t have to worry about accidentally staining or causing damage to your carpet with your efforts to remove the spot. In certain cases, it’s better to let a professional handle the spot or stain, as this provides you with a better chance of removing it. Keeping Carpets Cleaner, Longer While carpets getting dirty from regular foot traffic is inevitable, there are several things you can do to keep them clean for a longer period of time. These simple practices will not only help keep carpets clean between professional cleanings; they can also help extend the life and appearance of your carpet. Our first tip is to establish a “no shoes in the house” policy. Shoes can be very abrasive on carpet and can track dirt and grime from the outdoors into your home and onto your carpets. If you want to take this tip one step further, we recommend wearing indoor slippers or socks to help prevent skin oils from attaching to the carpet fibers and causing rapid re-soiling. We also advise placing walk-off mats at the various entryways inside your home. Walk-off mats help remove some of the soil from shoes and encourage guests to wipe their feet upon entering, which minimizes the amount of dirt and debris tracked indoors. On a similar note, it is important to regularly clean hard surface flooring in your home to avoid tracking residual oils from adjacent rooms like kitchens, bathrooms, and garages onto nearby carpets. Another tip to keep in mind is to be careful when using household sprays and deodorizers around carpet. When sprayed in the air, these products will fall to the floor and may leave behind a sticky residue. This residue attracts dirt and causes carpets to get dirty again more quickly. Professional Cleaning Weekly vacuuming will help remove some of the dry abrasive soils from your carpet, but it can't remove the sticky, oily, sugary soils that accumulate over time. Because of this, it is important to schedule cleaning from a professional carpet cleaning company. When you get your carpets professionally cleaned, carpet cleaning companies will evaluate your carpet’s construction, fiber type, and soil level to determine the most effective cleaning solutions and processes. Another reason to schedule professional carpet cleaning services on a regular basis is to maintain your carpet’s warranty. Per the manufacturer's warranty requirement, carpets should be professionally cleaned at least once every 12 to 18 months. For homes with heavily trafficked carpet and children or pets, we recommend scheduling a professional cleaning every 6 to 12 months. Professional cleanings help improve indoor air quality by removing non-living allergens from carpet fibers, leaving your home feeling and smelling fresh. Editor's Note: Ed Quinlan is the president of Chem-Dry, the world’s leading carpet and upholstery cleaning franchise. Quinlan oversees business support services for Chem-Dry franchisees, including training and business coaching programs aimed at enhancing performance, as well as the implementation of software improvements to simplify operations and increase profitability.

Image courtesy Top Knobs People with style know how to “accessorize,” and that same cosmetic enhancement is what makes modern cabinet hardware such a hot item for interior decorators. The options in available knobs, pulls, and similar handles number in the thousands, and their prevalence throughout a home makes them a major decorative component. New knobs and pulls can make an old cabinet look newer and help tie together the design of a room. Modern options include a wide range of metal finishes such as brushed nickel, antique brass, zinc plate, and many more. Retro options include crystal, ceramic and wood-component hardware. Hardware stores and home centers offer a variety of choices for up-close inspection, but for large-scale purchases, online retailers usually offer the best deals and widest selection. Check out the enormous hardware selection at suppliers like www.wayfair.com, www.leevalley.com, and www.woodworkershardware.com. Available in a wide array of modern metal finishes, knobs are the most versatile hardware option and will complement cabinet doors of any size. Decorative cabinet pulls should be measured in overall length, center-to-center distance, and its projection from the cabinet. Shown are new cabinet pulls from Top Knobs. Replacement When replacing hardware in wood-stained cabinetry, options in the size of replacement pulls will be limited due to the placement of the existing bolt holes. In this case, you will need to purchase new hardware that has mounting holes in the exact same locations, or purchase hardware that conceals the old holes. Paint-grade cabinetry and furniture can allow for more options in hardware size, because the old mounting holes can be filled, sanded, and repainted before drilling new holes to mount the new pulls. (This isn’t recommended where woodgrain is exposed, because the repair work generally doesn’t blend and remains noticeable.) After removing the old hardware, take the opportunity to clean the cabinets, make any necessary repairs, and touch up the paint. To measure drawer pulls, you must determine three measurements: length, center-to-center distance, and projection/depth. Aside from measuring the overall end-to-end length of the pulls, measuring the center-to-center distance of the holes is very important for installation, especially if you are replacing old hardware. To find the center-to-center measurement, use a screwdriver to remove your current pulls, then take a ruler or measuring tape and measure from the center of one screw hole to the center of the other screw hole. To find the center-to-center distance of a new pull from your supplier, look for a "Weights & Dimensions" tab on the product page. When replacing hardware of the same size, it’s most important to match the center-to-center spacing of the mounting holes. Projection (also known as depth) refers to the distance between the cabinet or drawer and the pull. This is typically the gripping area where you grab the knob or pull. The larger the projection, the more room your hands will have to fit between the pull handle and cabinet. Consider how comfortable it will be to use your cabinet or drawer pulls. If you have large or arthritic hands, a larger projection is ideal. To find the hardware's projection, check the product page's "Weights & Dimensions" section. When you’re determining an ideal projection for cabinet pulls, open your cabinets and see how close they swing to each other and surrounding kitchen objects. If your doors swing close together or toward another object, consider a smaller cabinet pull to minimize the risk of damage from swinging impact. Also, test the clearance of drawers that are positioned adjacent to each other. In some cases, a drawer pull with a lot of projection might obstruct an adjacent drawer from opening the way it should. Mounting pulls of the same size is a simple job that requires only a screwdriver. Pro Tip: Store the old hardware until the replacement is complete. If the new bolts aren’t the right length, you may be able to substitute old bolts for the installation. This photo shows why measuring projection is so important. In this case, the new drawer pulls nearly interfered with the opening function of the adjacent drawers. We narrowly avoid obstruction, but if the handles had projected as much as 1/8" further from the door, we would have had a problem. We recommend installing the hardware with a handheld screwdriver. If you use a cordless driver, make sure to dial down the power to its lowest torque setting. Cabinets and drawers are constructed in different ways. In the photo, note the face-board that doubles the wood thickness on this drawer compared to the thinner cabinet doors. To make sure you will have fasteners that fit, it’s a good idea to store the old screws for reuse until installation of the new hardware is complete. Hinges When using knobs and pulls with a metal finish, cabinets look best with hinges that match. Not only should the hinge finish match the new hardware, but the hinges should exactly match the size and configuration of the old ones. For example, some cabinets have a frame over the opening which will require face-frame mounted hinges, while other hinges have a recessed overlay to fit a different style of cabinet. Cabinet doors mounted completely on top of cabinet faces will get a full overlay hinge. If there is only a partial overlay, choose a 3/8-inch inset hinge. For no overlay, choose a full inset hinge. Frameless “European” style cabinets have a hidden hinge on the backside of the door, which conceals the hinge from sight when the door is closed. Pro tip: When removing a door hinge, always remove the lower hinge(s) first, so the door’s weight hangs from the top. When hanging a door, install the upper hinge first for the same reason. Repair tip: To tighten a loose hinge screw, remove the screw and tap pieces of toothpick into the screw hole. Cut the toothpicks flush with the cabinet face. Reinsert the screw, and the toothpick material should tighten the connection. When installing new hinges, you might find it helpful to pre-drill the screw holes with a “hinge pilot bit.” These specialty drill bits include a retractable metal sleeve that centers the bit inside the hinge’s screw hole, so a misplaced pilot hole doesn’t cause a screw to pull the hinge out of alignment. First-time Installation Whether you’re outfitting newly constructed cabinets with hardware, or you’ve refinished old cabinets for a brand-new look, keep the following guidelines in mind for selection and placement of pulls and knobs. Start by measuring the width of your drawer or height of your cabinet. Knobs and pulls are installed 2-1/2 to 3” from the corner of the door. Pulls—The length of the pull should be proportional to the size of your cabinet or drawers. Designers generally recommend a pull that is no longer than one-third of the total cabinet door height and no longer than one-half of the total drawer width. Long drawers (36 in. wide or more) might utilize two pulls—one on each side—to make it easier to open. According to the experts at Top Knobs, a North American leader in decorative hardware, pulls measuring 3 to 7 inches long will best suit doors less than 24 inches tall. Cabinet doors 24 to 36 inches tall are best adorned with pulls 7 to 12 inches long, while cabinets taller than 36 inches (such as pantries, built-in appliances, and pullouts) look good when accompanied by pulls longer than 12 inches. When fixed onto drawers, one pull 3 to 5 inches in length should be installed at the center of a drawer less than 16 inches wide. Drawers 16-32 inches can utilize two smaller pulls 5 to 7 inches in length or one larger pull 9-12 inches long. Drawers broader than 32 inches are best suited for pulls longer than 12 inches. Knobs—The most versatile hardware options, knobs are available in a broad range of styles and finishes. Standard size knobs range between 1-2 inches in diameter and will complement cabinet doors of any size. When arranged on drawers less than 16 inches wide, designers recommend installing one knob directly at the center. For larger drawers, two knobs should be installed. For a symmetrical appearance, measure the drawer into thirds and set the knobs in the center of the two outer portions. Installation On upper cabinets, knobs are typically installed between 2-1/2 to 3 inches from the lower corner of the cabinet door. For lower cabinets the same measurements apply but on the upper corner. For drawers, knobs go in the center. For both upper and lower cabinets, the pulls should be installed vertically 2-1/2 to 3 inches from the corner of the door. For drawers, they should be installed horizontally in the center. It is critical that the placement of all the knobs and pull remains consistent throughout the cabinetry. Whenever installation requires new mounting holes in the cabinets, make sure to pre-drill the fastener holes to prevent splitting the wood. Pro Tip: To avoid tear-out (when the drill bit splinters the wood as it exits the opposite side of the door), clamp a scrap block against the exit location of the bit. For the pilot holes, make sure to use a drill bit the exact same diameter as the mounting screws to ensure a tight fit with no slop in the hardware. All that is required for installation of cabinet hardware is a handheld screwdriver. If you use a powered screwdriver, it’s best practice to begin threading the screws with your fingertips to avoid cross-threading. When installing cabinet hardware, always lower the torque-setting of your power-driver to its lowest level to avoid stripping out the screw heads. For new installations, drill pilot holes for the hardware to the exact same diameter of the screws to ensure a tight fit. To avoid tear-out (splintering the wood with the drill bit), clamp a scrap wood black to the exit side of the door when drilling pilot holes. A drill guide such as the DrillBlock from Milescraft can help to keep the bit at 90 degrees to the wood surface. -- Editor's Note: Special thanks to Top Knobs for supporting this story. The cabinet pulls installed in this article come from the company’s Dakota collection finished in Pewter Antique and Flat Black. Learn more at www.topknobs.com. SIDE NOTE Door Placement Jig When installing door hinges, clamp a simple jig to the bottom rails to help support the door and gauge it’s installation height as you fasten it in place. The jig is made of a 1x4 block about 10” long. It has a 2” wide rectangular shim screwed lengthwise to the top and aligned along one side. Clamp the jig to the cabinet so the shim is aligned against the bottom rail. The thickness of the shim can vary based on the placement of your cabinet doors. In the photo shown, the shim is only 1/8” thick to provide a very small reveal around the doors. The shims tend to vary 1/8” to 3/8” depending on your cabinets.

Are you considering new roofing material for your home but you’re hesitant to call a roofer because you don’t know anything about roofing? This should not be a problem. Most people have never replaced or purchased a roof before. You have roofing questions and need answers before investing in a new roof. Home Improvement & Repairs turned to the experts at DaVinci Roofscapes, who talk to homeowners every day about their roofing questions. They understand that adding roofing material to your home is a major decision, both financially and aesthetically, impacting the resale value of your home. Making an informed decision is crucial. The DaVinci teams answers their 11 most common roofing questions: 1. What is a square? In roofing, a square isn’t the same space measured for carpet. Rather, a roofing square is 100 square feet (about the same area as an apartment bedroom). For example, if your home is 1600 square feet and only one story, your roof would be roughly 16-18 squares. Of course, because all roofs have a different pitch, the steepness of the pitch will determine if the surface area is greater or less than the square footage of your home. Your roofer will calculate the number of squares on your roof when providing a bid for synthetic roofing materials. 2. What is a pitch? The pitch of a roof is your roof’s rise over run. In other words, if your roofer says that your roof is a 7:12, then your roof rises 7 inches for every 12 inches it runs.  One of the easiest ways to figure this out yourself is to examine (or measure, if accessible) the profile of your roof. 3. What is a valley? A valley is where two separate planes of a roof join and water is diverted. The more valleys, the more labor involved. Care must be taken when shingling a valley. If it isn’t done right, you will most certainly have leaks in your synthetic shake or slate roof. 4. What are open or closed valleys? Your roofer may suggest an open valley or a closed valley, based on tile placement. A closed valley has tiles touching and no flashing is exposed. An open valley has flashing exposed. 5. What is flashing? Flashing are pieces of metal used in valleys, vent pipes, chimneys, dormers, and adjoining walls to prevent water from coming into your building or home. The more angles your roof has, the more your labor and material will cost. 6. What is the ridge? Your home’s ridge is the uppermost horizontal part of your roof where an angle forms from the intersection of two sloping roof planes. The ridge piece is essential because water hits your roof there first and then runs down the slopes. It also tops off your roof and makes your roof look finished. 7. What’s a hip piece? The hip is the area where two sloping planes come together, whereas the ridge is the very top of the roof. For your home to be protected from the elements and also to have an aesthetically finished look, hip, ridge and starter tiles are essential parts of it. 8. What is a starter tile? The starter course is the first layer of roofing that is applied at the bottom eave line. Starter tiles are always covered by the first course of shingles. 9.What is needed for the roof deck? For all DaVinci synthetic shake and synthetic slate roofing projects, the manufacturer recommends that you use 1/2-in. plywood decking to ensure a stable roof. To achieve a Class A fire rating and a Class 4 impact rating, you must use this roof decking in conjunction with the synthetic roofing material. 10. What is underlayment and which product do I need for synthetic roofing materials? Underlayment is an asphalt-saturated felt or other sheet material installed between the roof deck and the roof covering. Underlayment is used to separate the roof covering from the roof deck, to shed water, and to provide secondary weather protection for the roof area of the building. While there are many different options that can be used to obtain a Class A fire rating, the DaVinci team recommends one layer of Eco Chief Solarhide to achieve the rating. 11. What is synthetic roofing material? DaVinci Roofscape composite roofing is made of an engineered polymer, which is impregnated with fire retardant and advanced UV and thermal stabilizers, specifically formulated for the demanding conditions tiles are exposed to in all climates throughout the year. DaVinci roof tiles use only virgin resin to ensure consistency, and DaVinci Slate and Shake is backed by a Lifetime Limited Material Warranty. DaVinci Slate and Shake have a 1/2" profile, which is twice as thick as any other synthetic tile, showing more surface detail on the leading edges from almost any viewing angle. If you’d like to learn more about high-quality synthetic roof products, contact the experts at DaVinci Roofscapes at 1-800-328-4624 or visit www.davinciroofscapes.com.

guest post by Mark Waddell Vinyl windows are one of the most commonly used materials for home renovation and upgrade projects. Known for their durability and minimal maintenance requirements, vinyl windows have stood the test of time as a go-to for contractors and DIY’ers alike. With various color and style options, today’s vinyl windows also have the ability to match various aesthetic and design preferences, further contributing to their popularity. Still, when it comes to selecting a specific vinyl window upgrade, vinyl sliding windows continue to stand out as an exceptional choice. These windows are ideal for modern home designs. Plus, they’re much simpler to use, as they operate smoothly on a track system. This makes them effortless to open and close and seamlessly blends practicality with style for homeowners and contractors alike. Just keep in mind that for a renovation project to be truly successful—free of issues like air or water leakage, and to ensure client satisfaction—the window installer must be well versed in proper installation techniques for vinyl sliding windows. Additionally, it's important that the homeowner has clarity on maintenance routines and considers design aspects in order to optimize their renovation. Installation Techniques Vinyl sliding windows require attention to detail and careful planning to ensure a seamless installation and long-lasting outcome. Each step plays a vital role in ensuring these windows perform as intended. Before beginning the installation process, contractors, installers or DIY'ers should pay close attention to indexing the window within the wall, which refers to how far the window is set within the wall opening—projecting out to be flush with exterior siding or recessed into the interior. They need to know the thickness of the wall, the type of exterior veneer and trim and the interior trim to achieve a visually pleasing and weather-resistant application. Installers must also prioritize ensuring the window is properly square, plumb and level, confirming that existing and newly created openings align precisely with the window's dimensions. Additionally, they should pay careful attention to the condition of the sill, ensuring it is level and flat before installing a vinyl sliding window. If an installer fails to meet these conditions, it may mean they will have to put in extra time and effort to make the required adjustments after installation. It could also result in future complications, so investing a little extra time initially could prevent significant issues down the line. As far as techniques go, installers should always remember to use corrosion-resistant fasteners and fasten through the side jambs and the header. In most cases, those are the only places they can apply fasteners in an R&R application—not through the seal. But if they do apply fasteners through the seal, they should apply a copious amount of sealant where those fasteners penetrate the seal in order to prevent water from getting into the rough opening. Maintenance Routines Thanks to their simplified design in comparison with other window types, vinyl sliding windows demand minimal maintenance once correctly installed, rendering upkeep duties easily manageable for many homeowners. For easy inspection and cleaning, the majority of the operating sash on a vinyl sliding window can be effortlessly removed. To do so, contractors, installers or homeowners need to slide the window halfway open, firmly grip both sides of the operating sash, lift it up and then bring the bottom of the sash outward. This method allows them to completely detach the window from the track, granting full access. They can use water to rinse and cleanse the track system, effectively flushing the weep holes commonly integrated into most vinyl sliding windows. It’s important for homeowners to do this several times a year, especially if they live in high-wind areas where debris is more likely to accumulate. A word of caution against using lubricants on sliding windows: They tend to attract and retain dirt. Lubricants act like ball bearings until the material dries out, leading to issues with friction and the slide system deteriorating. Instead, homeowners can let the track dry naturally, and then reinstall the operating sash and apply dry furniture polish to reduce static. When it comes to exterior cleaning products, it's best for homeowners to steer clear of those containing caustic or acidic bases, as they can potentially harm the windows and their Low-E coatings. Homeowners should opt instead for gentle solutions like dishwashing detergent or glass cleaners to wipe down the frames, sash and glass surfaces. If they can keep up consistent maintenance practices like these, their vinyl sliding windows will operate smoothly for years to come. Design Considerations It’s to choose window designs that will complement the homeowner’s aesthetics and their home's curb appeal, while also respecting historic design standards. So, the best options are basic colors that won't date the home's appearance. Modern vinyl sliding windows are available in various colors, such as exterior and interior black, white, or bronze. These windows also come in unique slim-frame window designs that allow ample natural light and breathtaking views while providing maximum energy efficiency. Any installer can apply grille patterns as well as heat-reflective, low-E glass to maximize energy efficiency without compromising aesthetics. With the right techniques, routines and choices, vinyl sliding windows offer contractors and homeowners an easy-to-install—and maintain—window solution that will stand the test of time. -- Author bio:  Mark Waddell is senior product application and training manager for Cornerstone Building Brands, Aperture Solutions – U.S. With over 23 years of immersion in the building materials industry, Mark has emerged as the go-to expert behind the scenes at Cornerstone Building Brands, particularly in product installation and application techniques. To learn more about vinyl windows, visit www.simonton.com.