8 Broadcaster Press April 11, 2017 www.broadcasteronline.com H me Impr vement and How Building Permits Protect Homeowners You are thinking of making a major renovation to your home. Perhaps it’s time to create that master bedroom suite you long have admired or install that wrap-around porch? What is the first thing that should be done before getting down to business? The correct way to begin a home remodeling project is to obtain the necessary permits for the job. Many municipalities request individuals obtain permits for a range of work on homes or other structures, such as office buildings. Permits are generally required for all new construction as well as specific modifications that will affect structural, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems. It’s important to check with the local building office prior to beginning work to see which permits you will need before the project can begin. Permits are necessary whether a homeowner is doing the work or hiring an outside contractor. Due to the cost and time involved with securing permits, some homeowners skip this step so they can begin a project promptly. However, this can end up being a costly mistake. Permits might seem like a nuisance, but they actually protect homeowners in various ways. Permits ensure safe workmanship Permits provide a blueprint by which contractors and do-it-yourselfers must complete renovations. Because inspections will take place, there is no wiggle room. Shortcuts often translate into subpar work that may lead to malfunction and injury in the long run. Safeguarding against poor workmanship means homeowners can feel confident in the work being done. Permits reduce the likelihood of costly mistakes As inspectors go through their checklists, they may notice things that were done incorrectly and will offer advice about how to mend the problem before it becomes a larger headache. If left unchecked, an electrical error could lead to a fire or another dangerous situation. Repairs that are not structurally sound may pose problems or deteriorate more quickly than structures that are constructed correctly. Furthermore, catching improper technique early Obtain the proper permits before beginning construction. on eliminates having to tear down and redo work, which can be a costly and time-cosuming endeavor. Permits protect against fines Sometimes work goes as planned even for homeowners who did not obtain the necessary permits. However, years later, when other work needs to be done, inspectors may discover homeowners never secured proper permits and inspections years earlier, leading to fines. Furthermore, if work is done without a permit and an accident occurs, any damages or injuries may not be covered by a homeowner’s insurance policy. Permits are an important part of the home improvement process. Homeowners should not skirt the responsibility because the permit and inspection process is in place to provide protection to occupants. nMetro Creative Connections Factors to Consider When Choosing Carpeting When the time comes to choose flooring for their homes, homeowners may be overwhelmed by the vast array of options at their disposal. The choice between carpet and hardwood flooring, laminate or tile is a matter of personal preference. People have long extolled the virtues of hardwood flooring, but carpeting can be just as stylish and provides a host of other benefits as well. Carpeting insulates rooms in the summer and winter, adding that extra level of protection against the elements. Carpeting also absorbs sound in a home. Many appreciate the warmth and cozy feeling of carpet, especially when stepping out of bed. Carpeting also can increase the level of safety at home. According to the Carpet and Rug Institute, carpeting makes areas of play safer and may also reduce the severity of an injury in the event of a fall. Today, there are many different types of carpeting available. Selecting the right carpeting for a room comes down to identifying the level of traffic in a particular room, the attributes homeowners would like the carpet to have and any other needs that fit with their lifestyles. The following guidelines can make carpet shopping a bit easier. Type of carpeting There are many different types of carpeting, some of which are best suited to certain situations. For example, plush and saxony carpets are better in low-traffic areas. These carpets may show footprints and also vacuum tracks and dirt, but they’re higher on the comfort spectrum than other types of carpet. Berber, which is more flat and dense, helps mask stains and tracks. It is durable in high-traffic areas. Textured carpets like frieze are cut from fibers of different heights, so they mask stains and are also softer on the feet than berber. Padding Padding can impact the way carpeting feels and how long it lasts. It isn’t always necessary to purchase the most expensive or thickest padding. However, it is wise to pick a pad that matches the type of carpeting you’re selecting and one that aligns with how you plan to use the room. You may be able to go with a thinner pad in low-traffic rooms and beneath dense carpeting like berber. In high-traffic rooms, choose a thicker, more durable padding. Padding prevents carpet backing and fibers from coming apart over time. It pays to invest in a padding that will last as well. Installation Select a reliable carpet retailer and installer for your business. Competent installers will lay the carpeting in the correct manner so that it will look beautiful and maintain its durability for the life of the product. Shop around to find the right installer or even do the work yourself if you feel capable. Take time when shopping for carpeting, which is a substantial investment that can last for many years if the right material is chosen and installed correctly. nMetro Creative Connections How to Fix That Sticking Door Nearly everyone has experienced a sticking door that just will not close properly. This problem may become more noticeable when temperatures rise and humidity contributes to the swelling of wood doors and frames. According to The Family Handyman, a home improvement resource, the standard remedy for alleviating a sticking door is to remove the door and pare down the edges that are rubbing so that the door will once again swing freely. While this can solve the problem, it can be a hassle, as it requires refinishing the pared-down edge and rehanging the door. PRECISION PAINTING Try these shortcuts first •Interior •Exterior before creating more work •Commercial than might be necessary. •Residential Identify the problem Quality Workmanship, area and rub it with a dry Reasonable Rates bar of soap. This should reduce friction and allow the CLINT TUCKER door to close more easily. 624-4621 Since Remove humidity with a 1983 dehumidifier or by running an air conditioning unit. Check for loose hinges or sagging around the hinge. Tighten the fasteners to sure up the door and create better alignment. Spray the hinges with lubricant if you suspect sticking is originating because of squeaky hinges. Look for obstructions at the bottom of the door. Is the door dragging on carpeting or being caught on something on the floor? It may be a matter of simply clearing away the obstruction. nMetro Creative Connections MIILLER CONSTRUCTION NEW CONSTRUCTION • Remodeling 2620 E. 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