What the Pros Know About Cleaning Products

Choosing the right cleaning product has become a lot more complicated than it used to be. Pat Belardi, owner of Molly Maids of Marin, a Diamond Certified company, says that’s because in newer homes, you’re cleaning a wide variety of surfaces all requiring special products.  Stainless steel, acrylic, pewter, copper, marble or any other stone can be permanently damaged if you use the wrong types of chemicals. In an older home, you’re probably only cleaning tile, linoleum and painted surfaces, so an all-purpose cleaner will usually do the job.

Ms. Belardi tells all her clients to read cleaning product labels carefully and follow instructions to the letter. For example, if you’re cleaning a bathroom or oven, and the label recommends a well-ventilated room, open those windows. Also, don’t apply two different products to the same grime without a thorough rinsing in between applications. You don’t want to unknowingly create any dangerous chemical interactions.

To Flip or Not to Flip?

The stores are now full of what’re called “No Flip” mattresses. They’re flat on one side so you can rotate them, but you can’t flip them and use the other side. John Babine, owner of Salinas Mattress Company, a Diamond Certified company, says some customers still prefer two-sided mattresses, where you can sleep on either side and flip occasionally.

So how often should you rotate and flip? Generally, it’s recommended that in the first year you change it up every 3 to 4 months. After that, Mr. Babine suggests flipping and rotating about every 6 months, or as needed due to body size and shape. The idea behind this is to make sure the materials in the mattress wear evenly, especially if you have two different size people sharing a bed. Frequent rotations and flips even out dips and impressions, and prolong the life of your mattress.

Keep Water Away from Your House

When water doesn’t properly drain away from your house, you run the risk of having big and expensive foundation, dry rot and mold problems later. The solution, according to Vic Cvijanovic, owner of Pacific Landscaping, a Diamond Certified company, is to install a French drain around the entire perimeter of the house.

You start with a trench that is deeper, by about 12 inches, than the crawl space. The French drain itself is made up of cloth, perforated pipe and gravel. It’s important that the drain be sloped toward the street. In some cases, if there isn’t enough slope, you might have to install a sump. To complete a proper drainage system, a solid pipe that drains the water from all downspouts around the house should also be installed. The two systems, the French drain and the solid pipe, work independently, but together they keep all the water safely away from your house.

Auto Repairs After an Accident

Your insurance company may suggest that you use a particular auto body shop, a shop that participates in what’s called a “direct repair program”, or DRP.  These shops discount their rates for insurance companies in return for the referrals.  As Karen Chadd, Office Manager for Phil’s Auto Body, a Diamond Certified company says, “It’s your car and it’s your choice where you have it repaired.  You don’t even have to get more than one estimate anymore.”

Your insurance company’s adjuster does have to verify the damage before repairs take place.  Nowadays, some of the communication between the shop and insurance company is done by e-mail and FAX to help ease the process.   If you have a shop that you trust and prefer, take it there. That way you know exactly what you’re getting -- a quality repair job.

Creating Art Out of Mud

Cement is now being used to create beautiful surfaces both inside and outside the home. Eric Valtenbergs, owner of Touchstone Architectural Cement, a Diamond Certified company, had to explain to me what you can do with architectural cement, and was I ever surprised. The cement is used as a very thin overlay to existing surfaces, about 1/8” to 1/4” thick, and homeowners find it appealing because it’s lightweight, durable, decorative and versatile.

Inside the home, architectural cement can be applied to flooring, fireplaces and countertops. You can add custom colors, patterns and textures. It can also be poured into the shape you want, let’s say a curve on a countertop. This type of cement is used outside on patios, outdoor kitchens and pool decks. A big advantage is that a cement overlay may simplify restoring something like a patio, making it safe and beautiful again, and save you the cost of replacing the entire thing.

Get Help Conserving Water in Your Garden

Did you know that most of us over-water our lawns? According to Peter Haeberlin, owner of Vitale and Sons, a Diamond Certified landscaping company, many people water their lawns every day in the summer, when 3 times a week is plenty. If you need  help in controlling water useage in your garden, you might consider installing one of the new smart irrigation control systems.

Mr. Haeberlin explains that these systems can be linked to sensors in your backyard or connect with a satellite weather station. You start by programming in the details about your garden and lawn — things like what type of soil you have, whether shrubs are shaded or in sunny areas, and whether the lawn is sloped, etc. The amount of watering allowed is determined by taking into account all of your yard’s variables and conditions such as humidity, precipitation, temperature and hours of daylight. The controllers are available through your landscape contractor and depending on your water consumption you may qualify for a rebate from your water district.

A Well-Maintained Air Conditioner Saves Energy & Money!

You can get the most out of your air conditioner this summer by paying attention to a few small things. Kevin Comerford, owner of Service Champions, a Diamond Certified company, suggests changing the system’s filters frequently because the dirt builds up, restricts airflow and causes your air conditioner to work harder and less efficiently. You can do this yourself, and while you’re at it, clean and hose off the outside condenser coils with Simple Green. If your system is blowing warm air it may be that the Freon is out of balance or the compressor outside is shut down. So while a professional is checking that, have him clean the blower motor and the indoor evaporator coil.

A programmable thermostat can help reduce your utility bill and eliminate large swings in temperature. This will also extend the life of the air conditioner, which lasts an average of 12 years. The latest models are much more energy efficient.

Why Use a Licensed Contractor?

You may be tempted to hire an unlicensed contractor who offers the lowest bid on a home improvement project. Before you make that decision, Don Moe, owner of All Things Green, Inc. a Diamond Certified company, says homeowners need to know what consumer benefits come with using a licensed operation.

For one thing, licensed contractors have to carry liability insurance, so if an accident occurs while the job is underway, you, the homeowner, are protected. The Contractors State Licensing Board tracks background information on licensees, including reports of disciplinary action and license revocations. You can verify (www.cslb.gov) how long a company has been in business and get help with complaints. Unlicensed contractors can be difficult to find once a problem occurs; the only contact info may be a cell phone. Also, some are notorious for low-balling a job. Their price is the lowest for starters, but then unexpected charges come up as the work goes on.

Vacation Security Reminders

The one time our home was broken into was when we let newspapers pile up out front while away. I have not forgotten to place a vacation hold on my subscriptions since then. Mark White, owner of The Loss Prevention Group, a Diamond Certified company, says taking a few precautions, like making sure a car is parked in your driveway, is the best way to protect your belongings.

The key strategy is to make it appear like you’re still home. For example, plug a timer into a radio and lamps, programmed to go off at different times.  Check outside lighting to make sure none of the bulbs are burned out. Make sure the lawn looks well-maintained, and leave your blinds and shades in a normal position.  If they’re not normally completely closed, don’t close them.  And never hide the extra house keys under a flowerpot. Leave them with a trusted neighbor.

Seismic Threats to Your Foundation

The big threats to our homes during an earthquake come from two different forces.  Rick Wilson, owner of RC Wilson Construction, Inc a Diamond Certified company, explains that structures in earthquake zones are vulnerable to both shaking, and uplift.  The former can wreak havoc on the integrity of a structure’s framing, while uplift can cause an entire building to be jolted off the foundation. 

You can minimize damage to your property by adding sheer walls, which counteracts the shaking.  Adding bolts, hold-downs, and other mechanical connections placed throughout the building can reduce the possibility of uplift. Above all, RC Wilson emphasizes that a solid foundation is key to any structure’s stability. Structural work of this type can be a tax write-off, all in one year if they’re considered repairs. Otherwise, if categorized as home improvements, you have to write them off over a longer period of time. 

Help Me Organize My Sports Equipment!

If your garage looks like mine, you know how hard it is to find things like tennis rackets, soccer cleats, and bicycle helmets. All that unused space can be organized and even re-configured. Jason Muehlenhard, General Manager of California Closets, a Diamond Certified company, says one great idea is to create a "mudroom" in or close to your garage.

A mudroom is usually about 3’ by 4’ or 3’ by 5’, and it’s full of hooks, cubbyholes and shelves. You can add a mini-bin for shoes and boots and a rack for balls. The room itself can be enclosed, or left open. For larger items, such as golf clubs, skis, bikes and your brooms, rakes and shovels, you can add racks to the garage walls, so all that stuff can hang. This is a great way to maximize storage, and if you still need more space, add an overhead rafter.

Should I Get a Safe?

Most people don’t think about getting a fireproof or burglarproof safe until they’ve been victims. Joe Schoepp, owner of Crown Lock & Safe, a Diamond Certified company, says a small investment of a few hundred dollars can save you all the hassle of replacing priceless possessions, important papers, and even valuable computer data.

You can buy a safe with a spin dial, or one that opens with an electronic code. The latest systems use biometrics, which means you can unlock the safe with your own fingerprint. Safes are given a one-hour or two-hour fire rating to let you know how long the items inside will be protected.  It’s up to you to assess your threat level, which mostly depends on how quickly you think the fire department will answer your call. No matter what kind of safe you choose, make sure you bolt it down. Many people forget to do that.

Why Cars Don’t Pass Smog Checks

Do you know what the #1 reason is that cars don’t pass their smog check? According to Diamond Certified smog check experts, a “check engine" / "service engine soon" light ON and/or high tail pipe emissions are the main reasons. The state sets the maximum allowed limits for hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, referred to as "NOX". A worn out catalytic converter can also be one of the many causes for not passing.

Each smog check station has its own policy as to whether they charge you for a failure. The state does not regulate that. In general, shops set their own
prices for all smog checks, other than the state regulated $8.25 for the Smog Certificate.  If your car fails the smog test close to the registration deadline, you may ask DMV for an extension to make failed smog related repairs.

Solar Credit Update – Good News

We had warned you last week that solar tax credits were set to expire at the end of the year. The good news is that, as part of the financial bailout package signed last week, these federal tax credits have just been extended and increased.  Bob Winn, owner of Sky Power Systems, a Diamond Certified company, says the changes will benefit both homeowners and businesses planning solar projects.

Mr. Winn says the 12/31/08 expiration has been extended to 12/31/16 and the $2,000 cap has been removed (effective 1/1/09), meaning residential customers will get a full 30% tax federal credit. That credit is not subject to the alternative minimum tax, like the current $2,000 credit.   This amounts to $9,000 for the average residential system!  The tax credit is calculated on the net cost of the project after a California Solar Initiative rebate from PG&E.  Commercial installations continue to get the 30% tax credit, which was also set to expire 12/31/08.

Create More Privacy in Your Backyard

Many of us who live in large cities are looking for privacy in our backyards, and one way to achieve that is by planting semi-mature trees, or trees that will grow quickly, according to Dave Graham, owner of Atlas Landscapes, a Diamond Certified company. Choosing the right trees for your garden is critical to avoid future problems. Large trees grown in 24-inch containers will usually fit through your door and can in most cases provide an instant privacy screen. Trees as tall as 20 feet can be placed in the yard with a crane when access is limited.

Large trees can also be moved from one side of the yard to another. However, the success rate for that type of transplant is about 60%. The easiest trees to move are palm trees and maples, and many other trees under 12 feet tall. Fruit trees, tea trees and rose trees are the most difficult.

Make Your Next Kitchen Remodel Green

More of us are thinking “green” when it comes to designing a new kitchen. You might be surprised to learn that it doesn’t have to cost you more to have a more environmentally friendly kitchen, which is much safer for your family and your pets. Colette Cummins, owner of Cummins Construction, a Diamond Certified company, is a Green and Sustainable Building Advisor who says that the key things to keep in mind are preservation, durability, low maintenance options, and indoor air quality. She also recommends buying locally.

Consider installing countertops now being made from recycled glass. Cast and pour concrete is another good option because it will last a long time. Green linoleum and green paints and sealants are widely available. Avoid cabinets that use formaldehyde glues, which off-gass VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Also consider Energy Star appliances, and LEDS and fluorescents for lighting.  Maximize natural lighting with large, Low-E windows and skylights.

Advice on Buying a Used Car

Most people think they can get a lower price on a used car from a private party rather than a dealer. That’s not always the case, according to Greg Meier, owner of Diablo Motors Auto Sales, Brokerage and Service, a Diamond Certified company. Now that consumers use the Internet to buy used cars, dealers have had to price them more competitively. And a certified pre-owned car from a reputable dealer can be a safer bet than an “AS IS” private party car.

When buying a used vehicle, investigate what may have happened to it in the past, unless you know the previous owner personally. A vehicle history report is available from CarFax, a service some car dealers provide for free. Go to AAA or your mechanic for an independent pre-purchase inspection. Remember that many used cars are sold “AS IS”. If you want more protection, buy from a dealer who offers a free 90-day warranty. 

Risky Business: Buying a Home Without an Inspection

You might be tempted to buy a home that was foreclosed upon and is owned by a bank. One potential problem for buyers is that some banks are NOT allowing any time for pre-sale inspections and are selling the houses “as is.” Kim Herrera, owner of Insight Home Services, a Diamond Certified company, says while you might pay below market prices, you might be sorry once you find out how much it will cost to make all the repairs.

Many homes for sale by banks were not well maintained by the previous owners in the first place. Vandals sometimes steal the copper piping and electrical wires, major appliances, showerheads, or you might find graffiti on the walls. Major damage may only be detected by crawling under the house. Ms. Herrera recommends asking the bank if you can do an inspection before making an offer. That way you’ll know whether you’re getting a real bargain or not.

Window Coverings More Whimsical

Over the last 30 years, Jack Alter, owner of The Yardstick, a Diamond Certified company, has seen trends come and go and then come back again. Draperies were very popular up until the 1980’s and 1990’s when blinds and verticals became the rage. But homeowners soon had problems with blinds and verticals breaking and clanking.

Now draperies are back in a big way. Clients are saying, “I love drapes and I hate blinds.” Today you will find a broader selection of fabrics and incredible drapery rods. The trend is away from wall to wall curtains and floor-to-ceiling drapes, and you’re seeing more creativity. Today's design might include a stainless steel rod with faux silk side panels. Many types of blind choices for inside the window will give the room light control. This frames the window and makes the room look larger and more elegant.

Selling Your House?  Get an Inspection

Sellers usually do not know the condition of their home. According to Bob and Berta Bower with Alain Pinel Realtors in Saratoga, a Diamond Certified company, “Getting inspections allows you to learn of any issues and complete any items found in need of repair, prior to listing, resulting in a quicker sale.” Also, they tell clients that homes presented initially in good repair simplify the negotiation process and sell at a higher price.

Doing repairs prior to listing allows the seller more flexibility in choosing who does the work and what materials are used. For example, a tile shower can be replaced with a fiberglass shower stall in some neighborhoods saving thousands of dollars or a shake roof can be tuned up instead of replaced. Buyers will pay more for a house that has been repaired. Most families are dual income and have neither the time, nor expertise to do repairs themselves.

Prevent Unsightly Rings Around the Toilet

Have you ever come back home after a long vacation to just find ugly rings in your toilet bowls just below water lines? You’re tidy and you left everything immaculate as usual. What happened while you and the family were away?

Lamine Elabed, owner of Handyman Network of Marin, a Diamond Certified company, says you should not blame your toilet flushing system, its valves and flappers, or anyone else for that matter. The culprit is evaporation. When water evaporates, it leaves these unsightly discolored rings. How can you prevent this from happening next time? Before going away, if you know the toilets will not be used, lift the toilet seat and cover the bowl tightly with a plastic wrap like Saran Wrap. This way, you can avoid the hassle of having to scrub off theses ugly water spots when you get back home.

Overwatering Your Landscaping?

My last water bill was more than $300 (yikes) and a quick investigation revealed one big problem — the sprinkler was watering my driveway! What I didn't know is that many irrigation clocks are set for typical lawn circuits, even if they are watering more drought-tolerant shrubs, trees, or ground cover. And sometimes your sprinkler spray heads need adjusting, so that you're not watering your driveway.

Good drainage may disguise overwatering and some plants can get too much water for a long time before showing any symptoms. A few signs to look for though are yellowing leaves and wilting, especially with California natives and Mediterranean plants. Another good test is the finger or shovel test --- dig in and feel how moist the soil is.

Experts recommend getting to know what your yard needs and how to program your clock or consulting a landscaping pro.

Why is My Carpet Buckling?

This is a question that Dave Johnson, President of State of the Art Cleaning Services, a Diamond Certified company, sometimes gets from customers after cleaning their carpets. He has to explain that buckling occurs either because the polypropylene backing on the carpeting is defective or, more commonly, the original installation was not done properly.

Sometimes installers don’t take the time to stretch wall-to-wall carpeting (they are often paid per house, not by the hour). The slack can be up to 1%, or an inch for every 100 inches of carpeting.  Without stretching, buckling or bunching usually shows up around the edges and heavy furniture. It may appear after a few months or after a visit from your carpet cleaner.  If you’re having carpeting installed soon, make sure the installers don’t just “knee kick” the floor covering into place. Not only ask for power stretching, insist on it.  For more on quality installation see http://www.carpet-rug.org/residential-customers/installation/index.cfm

It’s Refi Mania for Homeowners

It’s a “be ready” game, according to Jay Sofnas, VP at First Capital Group, Inc., a Diamond Certified company. Anyone shopping for a loan right now could secure a great fixed rate under 5% if they are qualified borrowers, have their paperwork prepared, and have their mortgage brokers watching the rates closely as they fluctuate almost hourly.

Interest rates on 30-year fixed rate conforming loans up to $625,500 in most Bay Area locations are the lowest they have been since the 1960’s. To qualify for rates below 5%, however, you will need good credit scores (FICO score of 700 or higher), be able to verify your income with tax returns, and have 20% equity in your property. Interest only loans are not available with these historically low rates.

How to Organize Your Home Office

A well-organized home office can help you and your family be more productive. It all starts with allowing for plenty of surface workspace, according to Trevor Taylor, owner of Zen Space Solutions, a Diamond Certified company. Ideally for a corner desk, you need enough room for 2 people and their computers, with about 48 inches coming off each corner, and 30 inches of knee space.

Taylor has other good suggestions for your workspace. A wire management system helps control the clutter. Upper cabinets are useful and should be at least 12 3/4 inch deep to store large binders, and the like. Don’t skimp on slides for file drawers – they’re important. You don’t want heavy drawers falling out of the desk when you try to open them. Finally, make sure you have a durable finished surface for your work area and that the edges are not sharp.

Prep for Your Smog Test

What can you do to maximize the chances of your vehicle passing the California Emissions Test?  According to Ken Ashton, owner of Pacific Smog, a Diamond Certified company, you should start by having regular oil changes, and then have your car tuned up prior to the emissions test if needed.

If your vehicle is a 1996 or newer and the battery has been dead or disconnected recently, or any work has been performed on the vehicle, it could fail. It should be driven for a day or two before so it will be ready to be tested.

Keep in mind that once your vehicle enters the test station, the State REQUIRES that it be tested in the condition in which it was received. The technician cannot stop the test because they think that it might fail. Testing can only be stopped if continuing presents a safety hazard to the technician or the vehicle.