Archive By Section - Your Home
Robert Lamoureux: Build overhang to get out of rain
Hi Robert, I'm a big fan of yours. In order to get to our garage, I have to walk out the front door and go through a side door. This is usually no big deal, but during the rains, we get soaked going to or from the garage. We'd like to put a door in the common wall that separates the bedroom and the garage. Is there any reason ...
Create a romantic home all year
As Valentine's Day approaches again this year, our hearts and minds turn to romance. The stores are filled with red roses, heart-shaped boxes of chocolates, Valentine's Day balloons and, of course, Valentine cards. Who doesn't want to spend a romantic evening on Valentine's Day? But why not let the romance last all year long? Here are some tips for creating a sanctuary in your home into which you can retreat ...
Robert Lamoureux: Rains can cause soil expansion
Hi Robert, I'm on a board of directors of a homeowners' association. The concrete in front of our rec center has raised at least half an inch, so now we can't open the front doors. This happened in the last week or two. There is not a tree in sight, so I don't think roots are responsible. Any idea what could have caused this? Thank you. <p class="Bodycopy" align="left" ...
Good fences make good neighbors
Maybe the recent winds have blown your old, rotten wood fence down, or maybe you have new neighbors and you realize you now need a tall privacy fence so you don't have to watch the guy sunbathe in his Speedo. Or maybe you are tired of fence maintenance in general and want a fence that remains sturdy and good looking without any effort on your part. According to John Sloan of John Sloan Fencing in ...
Real mortgage help is on the way
So, the interest rate on your $400,000 home loan jumped up last year, and your payments are killing you.
Robert Lamoureux: Lead paint poses poison danger
YHI, My home was built in 1975. I was told I could disturb my lead paint during remodeling, but I can't have a contractor do it because a contractor must abide by certain rules and regulations. I'd like to confirm if this is true or not. Ernesto G. Hi Ernesto, <p class="Bodycopy" align="left" ...
The colors of 2012 arrive
If the new year has inspired you to redecorate your home and/or change the colors of your walls, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable with your choices.
Robert Lamoureux: Go with cool deck system for pool
Hello Robert,
Rose Society meets
The Santa Clarita Valley Rose Society meets the second Sunday of each month, except July and August.
Know fireplace TLC and 411
OK, we've been having a warm spell lately in the Santa Clarita Valley. Even so, many nights have been cold enough to induce the "fireplace urge," and more wintry weather is sure to come. So, now is the time to get your fireplace and chimney in shape for all that toasty snuggling ahead.
Robert Lamoureux: Height limit for tempered glass
Hi Robert, I want to put windows in the back of our home for a better view. I believe there is a code that says if you're putting one in too close to a floor you need tempered glass which is more expensive compared to regular glass. Do you happen to know that height requirement? Thank you, Mark N. <p class="Bodycopy" align="left" style="text-align: ...
Robert Lamoureux: What’s the best battery back up system?
Hi Robert, We were affected by the power outages in Pasadena. Thank goodness there weren't any rains because we've got a sump pump hooked up at an underground bonus room. Thank you, Tony G. Hi Tony, There is a product available called Basepump. It's a water-powered ejector with an atmospheric vacuum breaker. Their website, www.basepump.com states: "Water-powered pumps use a siphon ejector ...
Winter gardening and landscaping
Cold weather can come on suddenly, and more rain is very likely. This is still winter, and you should do your gardening and landscaping accordingly. Winter is actually a good time for planting, pruning and preparing your soil for spring - but you need to know what's what. Here are some winter gardening tips provided by Richard Green, owner of Green Landscape Nursery in Saugus, who has had long-term experience with ...
Robert Lamoureux: Smoothing over driveway rough spots
Hey Robert, You may or may not have touched on this in a previous article, but I don't remember it. Now that it's getting in the 30s in Santa Clarita, my concrete is popping and putting holes in my driveway at home. The holes are only about a half-inch deep, but it is definitely not nice. What is going on here? Thank you. Happy New Year, Curtis L. Hi Curtis, It could ...
A better home in the new year
With the new year on the horizon, you might be getting the urge to take on some home improvement projects. And while you can think big, it might help get you moving to take on easier projects first. Here are two such projects, as outlined on the Lowe's website. Natalie Turner in Lowe's public relations adds a couple personal comments, as well. "With the economy remaining uncertain, homeowners are tending to stay in place and ...
Articles by Section - Your Home
Entice buyers with sweet scents
When a home smells good, it makes a favorable impression on visitors. This is exactly what home sellers want when they put their house on the market.
Tips for buyers/sellers
Key indicators point to conditions for a seller's real estate market this spring.
Smart spending tips
Spring home improvement season is on the way, and if you're like most homeowners you have a list of jobs you want to accomplish.
Popular spring remodeling trends
It's time to think spring, which means fresh home updates. Spring home improvement projects will help you update your home, add comfort and save more of your hard-earned paycheck.
Celebrate winter white all year
It's cold out there. In much of the country, now's the time when home serves as a cozy refuge from the ice and snow. We light our fireplaces and wish for springtime.
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