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Did the most recent few rainfalls cause drainage issues in your yard or even enter your home? Lately it seems more like spring than fall with the amount of rain we have had in Middle Tennessee. Unfortunately, we tend to forget about drainage until it rains like it has over the last few weeks. Getting a fraction of an inch at a time doesn’t usually cause problems, but getting an inch or THREE in an hour tends to raise awareness of trouble spots in a hurry! There are some quick, low cost things that can be done around your home now that may help solve drainage problems before the next big soaker.
To fix drainage issues, start at the top! Cleaning the gutters is a good place to start. When gutters are clogged with leaves, pine needles or other debris, water can back up towards your roof and enter your home through the ceiling or run out over the top, down the side of your home and directly into basements or crawl spaces. Cleaning the gutters allows the water to flow off the roof and into the gutters and downspouts properly. Since this involves reaching the roof level of your home you may want to hire someone with the appropriate sized ladder and safety equipment to handle this chore once or twice a year. It will be money well spent!
Meanwhile, down on the ground, watch where the water exits the downspouts and consider extending them or using a tray at the end of each to divert water in a more desirable direction. You can buy quite a few downspout accessories at the local hardware or home improvement store at low cost and they are fairly quick and easy to install. For an eco-friendly solution, you can gather some of the rainwater for reuse with your garden or flowers by installing a rain barrel to catch runoff. You may need a small amount of installation assistance to shorten or redirect a downspout to complete this project. Check out instructions on kits available specifically for this purpose. If you have more runoff in certain areas, consider more water-tolerant plants in that part of your yard.
These few tips may help solve some of your home’s small drainage issues at a relatively low cost. However, if you have tried some of these repairs but still routinely have standing water in your basement or crawl space you should contact a professional regarding more permanent solutions to avoid damage to your home. Call me with any concerns or questions..... 615.403.8265 or email jarod@realtracs.com
....... "You've Got A Friend in Real Estate"
Jarod Tanksley 615.403.8265
Brentview Realty 615.373.2814
The thermometer and the calendar both say it’s almost fall! The change temperatures bring our attention to preparing for football-watching, chili-eating, sweater-wearing season! While you haven’t flipped over from air conditioning to the heat just yet, if you have a fireplace, the cooler evenings may be spurring thoughts of a cozy, crackling fire. However, your fireplace’s appearance may not exactly match the vision you had in mind! Is your fireplace looking a little less than picture perfect? Whether it is dated or just a little dirty there are some DIY projects you can do to spruce it up a bit before the guests arrive.
A fireplace is usually the focal point of a room and deserves a little attention to make it stand out and bring some interest to your space. Whether it’s brick or stone, it can be a major dust collector. Using a soft brush attachment on your vacuum a few times a year should handle those dust bunnies and webs in no time. Don’t forget to clean the screen or doors too!
Is the brick looking a little dated? It can be painted or re-painted for a fresh look. Be sure to choose a paint that will stand up to some heat and if you are unsure, do some research to be certain your choice won’t peel or flake when it gets hot. Start with a brush and paint the mortar lines first. Then, use a thick nap paint roller to paint the bricks and go back with the brush to touch up any missed spots. This can take some time and require a few coats of paint if the bricks have a lot of texture but the end product will be worth it!
Replacing the mantel is a quick way to make an update without having to drag out the paint brush. There are a wide variety of mantels available for purchase depending on how you plan to style it once installed. If you are handy with tools and have some time you could make one and customize the materials and color to your décor.
If you really don’t want to paint and have already tried a new mantel you can always go for a larger project of re-facing the entire façade. This will be the most expensive and time-consuming type of update but will provide you with the option of completely changing the look by using different materials such as marble, tile or wood. No matter what option you choose, now is the time for a fireplace refresh so it is ready for those relaxing chilly evenings!
..... "You've Got A Friend in Real Estate"
Jarod Tanksley 615.403.8265
Brentview Realty 615.373.2814
