Mold can be an issue that can affect the indoor air quality and structural integrity of buildings in Albany NY. In New York State specifically the Hudson, Albany and Saratoga areas, climate zone 5, where weather conditions can range from humid hot summers to sub zero cold winters, the potential for mold growth is significanlty higher compared to most regions within the United States. To address this concern, the state has established mold assessment procedures for licensed New York State mold inspectors. In the perfect world you would assume the procedures and licensing requirements set a high ..read more

Mold, a common household issue with potential health implications may be hidden throughout your home in concealed area. If you suspect you have mold complications but are unable to find visible mold you should double check the locations below within your primary residence. At times, mold may be concealed and indoor air quality testing should be performed. Basement: Basements often contain elevated humidity levels. Additionally, older basements or structures that have poor drainage may floor and or contain stagnate water within the basement making them susceptible to mold growth. Leaky pipes a ..read more

Maintaining clean indoor air quality is crucial for the health and safety of the occupants and of the home. While many factors can affect indoor air quality - one common issue in both older homes built in the early 1900s and new homes is the susceptibility of mold growth based on individual factors. Mold can lead to health complications immediately and or manifest over time. However, there are a handful of variables that can contribute to mold growth in older and newer homes both having their own unique complications. In Albany, NY, where humidity levels can be high understanding these contrib ..read more

There are several ways to decrease your home energy bill and save money on your utility costs. Here are some tips to help you get started: Reduce your energy consumption: One of the easiest ways to lower your energy bill is to simply use less energy. This can be done by turning off lights and appliances when they are not in use, using energy-efficient light bulbs, and setting your thermostat to a lower temperature in the winter and a higher temperature in the summer. Seal and insulate your home: Another way to reduce your energy bill is to make sure your home is properly sealed and insulated ..read more

Albany, the capital of New York, has a rich history of architectural styles and building materials. The city has a diverse array of structures, from historic homes and buildings to modern skyscrapers. One of the most notable styles of architecture in Albany is the Dutch Colonial style, which was popular in the 17th and 18th centuries. These homes were characterized by their steeply pitched roofs, large central chimneys, and Dutch gables. The Dutch Colonial style is still visible in many of Albany's older neighborhoods, such as the Arbor Hill and Center Square areas. Another popular architectur ..read more

Structural home fires are a serious issue in New York State, and understanding the most common causes can help homeowners take steps to prevent them. Here are some of the most frequent causes of structural home fires in the state: Cooking equipment: Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires in New York State. It's important to never leave cooking equipment, such as stoves or ovens, on when you're not in the kitchen. Heating equipment: Another common cause of structural home fires in New York State is malfunctioning heating equipment. This includes things like furnaces, boilers, an ..read more

Home warranties, also known as service contracts, are agreements that provide repair or replacement coverage for certain home systems and appliances. Some people believe that these warranties are not worth the cost because: The coverage may not be comprehensive enough to cover all potential issues that may arise. The repairs may not be made by qualified or licensed professionals. The warranty company may not cover the full cost of repairs or replacement, leaving the homeowner with additional expenses. The warranty company may be difficult to reach or take a long time to respond to a claim. Ma ..read more

According to the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control, the leading cause of fires in residential homes in the state is cooking equipment. These fires often occur due to a lack of attention while cooking, such as leaving the stove or oven unattended, or placing flammable materials too close to the heat source. To prevent fires from happening in the kitchen, it is important to always keep an eye on your cooking and never leave the kitchen while food is on the stove or in the oven. Additionally, it is important to keep flammable materials, such as paper towels or curtains, away fr ..read more

Preventing your basement plumbing lines from freezing is an important task to keep your home's plumbing system functioning properly during cold weather. Freezing pipes can cause them to burst, resulting in costly repairs and potential water damage. Here are a few tips to help prevent your basement plumbing lines from freezing: Insulate your pipes. Insulation can help to keep the heat in your pipes, preventing them from freezing. This can be done by wrapping the pipes with insulation materials such as fiberglass or foam. Seal any cracks or gaps in the walls or floors near the pipes. Cold air c ..read more

Keeping your home's gutters clean is an important part of maintaining your home's overall health and functionality. Here are some key reasons why you should make sure to keep your gutters clean: Prevent water damage: Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and potentially damage your home's foundation, walls, and roof. Cleaning your gutters regularly ensures that water is directed away from your home, preventing costly water damage. Protect your landscaping: Clogged gutters can also cause water to overflow onto your lawn and landscaping, potentially causing damage or erosion. Keeping your ..read more