Author: Oliver Donohue

How to Tell If Your Deck Needs Repair or Replacement

Oliver Donohue Deck Builder , , , ,

A comprehensive inspection can help homeowners decide whether Deck Repair or replacement is needed. The most obvious factor is the size of the damaged area. Replacing a section of the deck due to severe rot costs more than replacing a few planks because of surface rot.

Deck Repair

Structural issues can be costly, so it is best to call a professional team as soon as possible. Luckily, there are many simple repairs that can be done.

When a plank becomes damaged, it’s important to replace it as soon as possible to prevent further damage. This is particularly true for wood planks, which can swell or shrink with the weather and pull nails or screws loose. Check your deck for these problems frequently and refasten them as needed. You should also inspect the ledger, which is the piece of framing that connects your deck to the house and needs to be free from rusty nails or screws.

Laminate floor planks can be a bit trickier to repair, but it is possible if you are willing to take the time. You will need to “unlock” the planks in order to remove and replace them, which is fairly labor-intensive. However, it will ensure that the new plank is properly glued in place and will not be affected by the expansion and contraction of the laminate.

Start by removing the old plank with a hammer and pry bar, being careful not to damage adjacent boards in the process. Once you’ve removed the old plank, remove any nail heads and sand the surface to make sure it’s smooth. Before gluing the replacement, carefully mark where it will go with a pencil or removable marker. Next, cover the surrounding boards with masking tape to protect them from your tool marks. Finally, apply LLF-approved adhesive to the locking edges of the new plank.

Once the glue is applied, allow it to dry for a few minutes. After this, press the new plank into place and make sure it’s secure before walking on it. If your deck has seen better days, it’s time to call in a professional to help with the repairs.

It’s important to remember that the flooring industry only allows for 5% waste (wonky planks, damaged edges, etc.) in all of its products. If your laminate has more than this amount of damage, then you should bring it up with the dealer to get it fixed under warranty. Otherwise, you may need to pay to have it replaced by a professional.

Rotted Spots

Wood rot can cause significant damage to a deck over time, especially if it goes untreated. Wet rot (scientifically known as cellar fungus) and dry rot are two types of wood fungus that can damage the structure of your deck. Identifying and fixing wood rot early on can save you money and stress.

Checking for soft spots is a key part of routine deck maintenance. A good flashlight and long-handled screwdriver are the tools you’ll need to probe around posts that touch the ground for softness. Since those areas come into closer contact with moisture than other parts of the deck, they are more likely to rot.

Dry rot is an often-overlooked issue that can have devastating consequences. It is caused by microorganisms that eat the cellulose in wood, leaving it brittle and more easily broken apart. It also attracts wood-eating insects like termites, which compound the problem.

Wet rot is a much more serious problem, as it can cause structural damage to your deck. It can deteriorate the lumber in your deck’s frame, leading to sagging, warping, and other issues. It can even deteriorate the beams and joists that support your deck.

When you find rot, it’s important to remove the affected pieces and treat the rest of the timber in close proximity with a fungicide. This can help prevent the fungus from spreading to other areas of your deck.

When you’re repairing rotten wood, you can use a wide variety of materials, depending on what type of wood it is. Wood filler and hardeners can be used to fill the hole created by the rotted wood, while epoxy can be used to strengthen it. Once the repairs are complete, you can stain and seal the new wood to match the rest of your deck. This will also help protect it from moisture in the future.

Damaged beams and joists

A compromised beam or joist can create a serious safety hazard. These structures are responsible for the weight of the floor and other structural components, such as the deck boards. When these framing members begin to rot, the resulting weakness can create dangerously weak points in the structure that will cause it to sag or collapse. Luckily, the damage to these structural members can often be repaired with relative ease. The most common method is to install a sister joist alongside the existing one, which will help provide additional support.

Other methods include sandwiching the damaged member between two pieces of plywood or using flitch plates to add strength. These metal strips are placed along the side of the weakened member to provide additional strength and prevent it from rotting.

It is important to determine why the joist or beam is rotting before starting to repair it. Moisture and insect damage are major contributors to this type of damage. Powderpost beetles leave joists riddled with holes, termites leave telltale mud tunnels on foundations and posts, and fungus can easily grow in damp areas of a house that don’t have proper ventilation.

If the damage is from insects, it can often be cured by eliminating the infestation and making sure there is adequate drainage around the home. Moisture issues can be resolved by installing air bricks and addressing any problems with water leaks or the soil surrounding the foundation of the building.

When repairing a compromised floor joist, the best option is to use a pair of joist plates, which are available from most hardware stores. These metal plates are shaped to fit a joist and then secured in place with screws. This is a relatively simple and inexpensive way to repair the end of a joist, but it will not provide as much support as reinforcing the entire joist.

In cases where the whole joist is rotting, it may be necessary to replace the entire beam. This can be a costly project, but it is usually required if the joist is supporting the deck and other components of the structure. Depending on the severity of the damage, this may be done by jacking up the floor frame from below and then nailing in a new full-length joist flush to the existing one with construction adhesive. Before doing this, it is important to remove any pipes or wires that are currently going through the joist and then turn off the water, power, and gas.

Damaged Railings

If a wooden deck railing feels wobbly when you push against it, it’s likely that one of the connections between the posts and the rest of the structure is loose. This may be the result of a screw or nail that’s come undone or from the wood itself becoming weakened through moisture damage. Either way, a loose railing is a hazard that can lead to someone tripping and falling over it. This is why it’s crucial to get this type of repair done as soon as possible.

To fix a loose railing, it’s a good idea to start by removing the old fasteners and reattaching them with metal epoxy like JB Weld or similar products. This will help ensure that they’re able to hold the weight of an adult person, as well as any children or pets who use the railing. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to prepare and clean the pieces for reattachment. It’s also a good idea to check that the fasteners are tight enough to hold the railing in place and to replace any that are showing signs of wear or rust.

Wooden deck railings can suffer from rot just as easily as the other parts of the deck, especially if they’re exposed to a lot of water. Moisture damage will weaken the wood, which is then more likely to succumb to fungi that can quickly deteriorate the whole structure. If you notice a swollen, splintered, or discolored area at the base of your deck posts, it’s time to call an iron contractor or railing specialist for repairs.

While it is possible to repair loose, rotting, or damaged portions of your porch or deck railings yourself, it may be easier and more cost-effective to invest in a new railing system altogether. There are many options to choose from, including metal railing systems that will look great on any porch or deck. There are also wood railings that you can customize to match the style of your home, as well as cable systems and other types of specialized railings.

Reasons to Hire a Deck Repair Professional

Oliver Donohue Deck Repair Services , , , ,

There are several reasons why you may need to repair your deck. Loose railings can pose a safety issue for you and your family. A loose railing could also be an indication of a weak connection between the frame and posts. Wood posts expand and contract during changing weather conditions. These changes can loosen or even rot the railings. Repairing a deck requires a professional’s expertise and a thorough inspection of the deck’s structure. You can hire Deck Repair Austin TX to do the job.

deck repair

When replacing a board, use the damaged one as a template. Remove any screws that are causing it to rot. Make sure to check underneath the board for rotting. If you can’t remove the board, use a table saw or router to rip it to size. Make sure to use a good sealant. The rotted board can be replaced by removing a few pieces. Replace the board carefully.

When looking for a contractor, make sure to find one that is licensed and insured. Insurance will protect you from being sued for accidents on your deck. Ask to see proof of insurance. Also, make sure that the company you hire has been in business for many years. If they have, then they are likely qualified for the job. If you’re unsure, contact a local contractor. The right person will have a proven track record and can provide references to help you make a choice.

The first step in repairing a deck is to remove any furniture and outdoor planters that may be causing rot. Using protective covers will prevent this problem and keep it from spreading. It’s also important to clean up any spills on your deck. Food residue can attract wood-loving insects and make your deck look unattractive. If you have kids, this is a good time to hire a professional for your deck repair.

Another reason to repair your deck yourself is to save money. You can save money by tackling some of the work yourself or by hiring a handyman to complete the project. It’s also a good idea to get a quote from three different professionals. In some cases, you can repair damaged wood by yourself or trim out the mold and rotten wood yourself. Using two-component epoxy will add up to about $65 to $100 per gallon.

Railing repairs can cost $500 to $4,000. The cost will depend on the type of railing and the number of pieces. If you have loose steps, a professional deck repair contractor can fix them with new screws and metal brackets. If the steps have splintered, you may need to replace the entire staircase. Wooden steps will wear out and crack over time, which can make the deck dangerous to walk on. If you store heavy items on your deck, cracks may result from the uneven weight.

You can prevent damage to your deck by checking for minor cracks. Small cracks in wood boards are completely normal as they age. But they could lead to splinters or rot. Small cracks can be filled using latex wood filler and sealed with sealant. Large cracks, on the other hand, should be checked with a screwdriver. Look for missing fasteners, rusted flashing, and black stains.

The most common cause of deck rot is water damage. Even pretreated wood can suffer damage over time due to prolonged exposure to water. Wood that bends inwards is especially prone to rot. Another cause is the improper installation of screws. Galvanized screws may also cause rot in treated wood. Therefore, it is important to hire a professional for deck repair. If you cannot determine the problem yourself, you may need to replace the entire deck.

Once the deck is dry, apply a coat of deck stain. Apply the stain evenly with a synthetic brush or roller. Try to avoid dripping the stain on brick or siding. Apply a fresh coat of stain every two to three years, and apply clear water repellent in between staining. When staining, make sure to allow the wood to dry for at least three hours before removing the old stain.

Another problem is buried posts. Posts buried below ground level are susceptible to rot, reducing the longevity of the deck. If you have buried posts, you should replace them with concrete footers. This prevents rot. And remember that pressure-treated lumber is susceptible to rot, so if you do choose to use buried posts, make sure they are properly secured. If you want to avoid this problem, you should always install concrete footers.

Choosing Deck Builders

Oliver Donohue Deck Builder , , , ,

When choosing a deck builder, you’ll need to consider many factors. Deck Builders Louisville KY should have experience building similar decks, including experience with stairs and railings. Then, you’ll need to consider the level of service and quality you expect from a builder. Then, you’ll want to know who will be working on the project and whether the firm is insured and has a track record of customer satisfaction.

Deck builder

In addition to looking at prices, you’ll want to consider the level of craftsmanship. While you’re still paying for the material and labor, you want a deck builder who stands behind their work. Ask about their past projects. You’ll also want to look at completed decks. A good contractor will be willing to show you photos of their work and share them with you before starting the construction process. While this might seem like an obvious question, it’s one of the most important considerations.
Choosing a deck builder should be based on their previous experience and reputation. You’ll want a company with experience in the area you’re considering. In addition, you’ll want to choose someone who is reputable. After all, there’s nothing worse than hiring someone who doesn’t meet their deadline. But make sure to ask all of the contractors you interview. This way, you can compare them side-by-side and see which ones provide the best results.
Another tip when choosing a deck builder is to find out how long the construction process takes. Ask your prospective contractor how long it typically takes, and check to make sure they’re bonded, insured, and fully insured. You can also ask for references from satisfied clients. A deck builder who is willing to provide a portfolio of past projects is more likely to be a trustworthy contractor than one who isn’t. That way, you can check the qualifications of potential contractors and ensure you’re getting the best service for your money.
Before selecting a deck builder, be sure to ask for references. Ask for a contractor’s license and credentials. Be sure to read all the reviews written about their company. Often, this will help you decide if you’re going to go with that contractor. If the company hasn’t listed any testimonials, you might want to reconsider hiring them. If they’re a member of certain quality groups, you can check the credentials of your chosen contractor.
When choosing a deck builder, you can also check their references. The best way to evaluate a contractor’s professionalism is to ask about their past clients. The information provided by their past clients will provide you with valuable insight into the builder’s reliability, efficiency, and budget. You can also check their portfolio to see the finished work of their previous clients. Moreover, a good builder will show their work as it is being built.
Besides asking about their qualifications, you should also ask about their reputation in the industry. A reputable contractor should have good references and be a member of the Better Business Bureau. This is the best way to hire a reputable and experienced deck builder. In addition, a good contractor will be able to communicate with you and give you the best value for your money. During the initial consultation, make sure to ask a lot of questions, as you might not be sure what to expect from them.
Getting a good deck builder is a great way to boost your home’s curb appeal. It’s a great way to show off your property and entertain guests. You should also consider the location of your new deck. If you have a backyard surrounded by many trees, you can opt to build a deck that has a similar design. Whether your project is large or small, it should be well-designed.
When choosing a deck builder, you should be sure that they have good communication skills. You’ll want to communicate with them regularly to avoid any misunderstandings or delays. Ideally, you’ll have two or more contractors for the project, so make sure you communicate with both of them regularly. However, if the latter has a difficult communication style, don’t hire them. Instead, it is best to choose a contractor who is more accessible since they can answer your questions.

How to Prevent a Drain Stoppage

Oliver Donohue

A drain stoppage is one of the most frustrating things a homeowner can experience. It can be hard to know when you have a problem, and it is even worse if you don’t notice it right away. Fortunately, there are some warning signs to watch out for so you can prevent a clog before it happens. Having a plumber to inspect your drain can save you time and money. 

plumbing

Plumbing fixtures aren’t the only fixtures that can suffer from a drain stoppage. Shower and tub drains tend to be on lower levels than sinks, so a large backup can cause a shower to fill with wastewater. In addition to sinks and bathtubs, a backed-up sewer line can cause running water in nearby fixtures. In these cases, you should contact a plumber as soon as possible to have it repaired.

Sometimes, a drain stoppage can lead to strange reactions in other fixtures, including the toilet. Using the toilet can cause the toilet to fill with water, or turn on the shower. You may also notice bubbles or a sudden overflow in the bathtub or shower. Leaving the washing machine running can also lead to a backup in nearby toilets. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to call a plumber.

In the case of a sewer stoppage, a plumber is the best choice to make. It is an extremely common problem in homes and can be difficult to diagnose, so it’s best to hire a professional to help. In most cases, the problem can be repaired without causing further damage. And a professional can use specialized technology to identify the problem and fix it. The plumber can also provide regular plumbing upkeep and repair, making your life easier.

If you’ve experienced a drain stoppage in the past, you may have noticed strange reactions in the fixtures of your home. While a clog in the sink or bathtub drain is a common problem, you may have also noticed a backup in the shower or bathtub. This is due to a backed-up sewer line. If you experience this in your home, you should call a plumbing expert for help as soon as possible.

The best option to deal with a clogged drain is to call a professional plumber. There are specialized tools that can help you locate a clog in the sewer. A professional can also help you with regular maintenance and plumbing repair. If your pipes are blocked, you should take the necessary precautions. A plumbing expert will be able to make sure it doesn’t happen again. The home can be a healthy place.

Some common signs of sewer stoppages include odd reactions in home fixtures. For example, a drain stoppage can result in back-ups in the tub and shower. For some people, the problem can be so severe that the water in the fixtures will overflow. Whether you’re experiencing a sewer backup or a pipe clog, a professional will be able to find the root of the problem.

Another sign of a sewer stoppage is the presence of air in the pipe. If the plumbing is plugged with air, you may notice bubbles or overflows in the tub or shower. For a sewer line to overflow, the plumbing must be repaired. The water line must be unplugged before the water can get back into the pipes. If the pipe has trapped air, it can be very dangerous. A clogged toilet will overflow and cause damage to surrounding fixtures.

If you suspect a sewer line stoppage, call a plumbing company immediately. In some cases, it’s possible to clear a sewer stoppage yourself with a simple plunge. However, this process is complicated and messy, so make sure you hire a plumbing company that uses protective gear. This will ensure that your pipes and sewer lines will run efficiently for years to come. If you’re unsure of what to do, don’t worry. Rather, let a professional do the job.

A sewer line stoppage can also cause a major plumbing problem, as the main sewer line is connected to every water-using fixture in your house. If the pipe is clogged, backed-up water on the first floor is the most common sign of a sewer line blockage. It may be due to deterioration or tree roots, or a simple obstruction in the pipe. The best way to get a clean drain is to call a plumbing company, which can be an expensive endeavor.

Why Should You Use a Debt Consolidation Loan?

Oliver Donohue Finance Company , , , ,

Debt consolidation is essentially a type of debt refinancing which involves taking out one large loan to pay off several others. This commonly refers to an individual personal finance strategy of people dealing with high consumer debt, usually but not always. It can also apply to the economic system to consolidate Government debt or corporate debt. It may sound like a good idea. The truth is, there are both advantages and disadvantages to debt consolidation. Here are some things to consider before deciding on the best option for you. Visit Website to see more options.

debt consolidation

* Cost – Probably the most apparent advantage debt consolidation has been the cost. If you have too many loans to make on your own, it might be a smart move to just refinance them all. By all means, if that is not an option, the next best thing is to get a loan to pay off those loans. Most financial experts recommend using at least 60% of the money to pay off the principal loan, with the rest going to either a lower interest rate or paid as a lump sum. Either way, you end up saving a lot of money in the long term.

* Peace of Mind – By consolidating your bills, you are giving yourself peace of mind in knowing you are making payments to a more reliable entity. As it stands, many people who are in financial hot water have the feeling that their bills will be steadily increasing in the price no matter what they do. Bankruptcy and debt consolidation both give you peace of mind that your bills will not rise any further. Also, by consolidating your bills, you are able to eliminate late fees and over-limit fees, which often result from missed payments or non-payment of previous bills.

* Credit Rating – One of the major consequences of filing for bankruptcy is that you lose your credit rating. This includes credit cards and personal loans like car loans. You cannot re-establish these again, and it can take years to rebuild your credit rating. By using debt consolidation, you can restore your credit rating by paying off all your unsecured debts and starting fresh.

* Debt Elimination – Using debt consolidation really means debt elimination. You will be able to manage your monthly obligations much better, making sure that you only have to make one payment per month. As you consolidate your loans and pay them off, you will also lower your interest rates. This will help you save even more money in the long run. This also puts less pressure on you when it comes to repaying the consolidation loans as you will be repaying a much smaller amount of money overall.

* Lower Interest Rates – A higher interest rate can add up to a lot of money over time. If you are paying a higher loan amount, then you may end up paying hundreds or thousands of dollars extra on interest charges. Debt elimination can reduce this figure significantly. Once you have paid off your consolidated loans, you will find that you now have a lower interest rate to pay on new loans.

* Debt Elimination – When you use debt consolidation, you will learn about money management. By managing your finances better, you will end up being able to pay off all your obligations much faster. The longer it takes you to pay off your consolidated debts, the more money you will save. Your creditors will also receive their money much faster. They will be happy to receive their payments straight away rather than over a long period of time.

A great way to manage your finances is to use a debt consolidation loan. Once you have experienced the benefits of consolidating your debts, you will be glad that you made the choice to use this option to improve your financial situation. Your credit score will gradually increase as you make your payments on time. It is important to remember though, that credit cards are still very important and should not be neglected while trying to manage your finances.

What to Look For When Selecting a Patio Builder

Oliver Donohue Uncategorized

Patios can be small or large. They are usually built of wood or vinyl. When deciding to build your own patios, you might think that all you need is some wood and some paint. Or maybe you would prefer to hire professional deck builders.

Patios can be built of many different materials. Wood is the most common of these. There are several things to keep in mind in choosing a contractor for your patios. Deck construction should be sturdy and long-lasting. A good contractor will have the skills to construct your decks with the highest quality of wood.

Of course, the price of the wood will depend on the quality. If you decide to buy low-quality decking wood, it will most likely be more costly than a higher quality wood, such as cedar or redwood. It would help if you also considered the stability of the wood before deciding to use it for a patio. Low-quality woods can easily warp and rot.

patios builder

Before hiring a contractor for your patios, make sure that he or she is insured. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau. The last thing you would want is to have your contractor pay because they were injured while on the job. You must have a contract between the two that outlines the project, the cost, and the timeline. In case any problems arise, you should be able to receive full compensation from the contractor.

If you live in an area that does not accept work on patios, consider building your own. Patios can be a fun project to take up, especially if it is in a backyard. However, if there are particular features that you do not like about the decks, then perhaps you should have them changed. With a little bit of effort, you can have a beautiful deck built without the use of a contractor.

Before starting your project, you will need to ask yourself several questions. Are you planning on selling my home? Are you interested in building a brick patio? Do you need the contractor to do a lot of the landscaping around the patios? These are important considerations before making your decision.

When you visit the site, also ask the contractor for a tour. Take the opportunity to see how your deck will look with brick trim, gazebo, and a trellis. Do not forget to take measurements! Many homeowners overlook this step and are surprised by the amount of space that is actually required to build a great deck.

Once you have all of your questions answered, call and schedule a consultation. Ask the prospective contractor about the cost of the materials, labor costs, and any possible discounts. They should be able to provide you with a written quote on a standard basis. Be sure to ask for references. It is also good to contact the homeowners’ associations in your area to get additional recommendations.

Once you have the quote, it is time to check out the price. Make sure it includes all of the material costs. Also, inquire about the timeline for completion. How long will it take from beginning to end? If there are any delays, how much extra will you have to pay? This will help you determine whether or not the price is reasonable.

Does the deck building service come to your home? Will, they actually build your deck, or will you have to do it? Some builders specialize in decks, while others will construct any patio that you desire. You want a company that can provide both indoor and outdoor construction work. This will ensure that your project will not turn into a nightmare.

Is there a warranty on the work? Inquire about warranties and guarantees before hiring anyone to build your patio. If a company does not offer a guarantee or a warranty, then you might consider hiring someone else.

When choosing a contractor, make sure that they have been referred to others in the industry. They should know other companies who may provide the same services that you are looking for. They should also have plenty of references that can provide you with further insight. By keeping all of these factors in mind, you will be able to choose the best company to finish your patio deck or patio.

How To Get The Best Generator Installation Prices

Oliver Donohue Generator Installation , , ,

You might not think about it during your typical home repair or remodeling project, but Electrician Cleveland TN is critical to your electrical needs. How long does it take? A few hours. Once you know all that you should about your particular home generator, you can hire a local home improvement contractor to get it installed.

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Understanding this in advance, your generator installation process should be relatively smooth in a few hours. You should not be concerned with anything in regards to getting in or getting around it. This could be a great part of the remodeling process for you. There is nothing more stressful than trying to figure out where something needs to go, only to have to rush and rearrange it.

Once you have settled on your generator installation process, you can move on to the electrical section. Do you want a gas or natural gas powered unit? Both work well. It is going to depend upon how much electrical use you actually have at home. Those who entertain often may find a natural gas unit would be best. For those who do not entertain and simply need a backup power source, a gas standby unit would be the way to go.

Some homeowners might decide that they can handle either type of generator installation. For those homeowners, it would be wise to sit down and figure out what appliances are most used, and how many electrical outlets they will need. Then you can divide up the rooms and sockets that the appliances will require to make sure that each room receives the necessary electrical power. Some of the more common gas powered units will power most every room, while natural gas standby generators will only be needed for specific rooms or areas.

If you have decided on a generator installation company, the next step will be to choose a company that is experienced and knowledgeable. If you are handy, and can read blueprints and schematics, this is not a necessity. However, those who are not as knowledgeable will need a home consultation. With a home consultation, the installer can explain all the components, how their system works, and answer any questions that you may have about the installation process. A good installer will make sure to record the measurements of all the rooms being serviced so there will be no confusion when the installation is complete.

Once the generator installation process is complete, the next step will be the hookup to the transfer switch. This is also known as the breaker box. The hookup process usually does not take long. You simply disconnect the existing electrical wiring from the house, unplug the unit, and hook the new unit into the transfer switch and the new wiring will be attached.

Finally, the generator will need some type of testing equipment to gauge its efficiency. There are a couple of different methods that can be used. The most popular is the electrical resistivity test or the natural gas meter. These two methods are fairly accurate but will never measure your generator completely. That is why many people opt for a portable electrical meter or a natural gas meter.

Generators are an essential part of providing electricity in residential and commercial settings. If you decide to have one of these power units in your home, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and hire a professional installation team with experience with the models you want to purchase. Generators are not something that should be purchased haphazardly. Proper installation costs money, and with today’s unstable economy, it makes sense to spend just a bit more to guarantee top performance.