Summer Humidity Can Cause Problems in the Home

Even with all this rain, it won’t be long before summer weather is in full swing.

With New England's heat also comes humidity, a potential problem that every homeowner needs to keep in check. While we can’t control the weather outside, moisture inside can be a major problem, contributing to mold, mildew, and overall dampness, especially in the attic and basement. 

Many homeowners combat humidity by using air conditioners in their houses, and while they can reduce the moisture in the air to some degree, this is by no means their primary function. An air conditioner works by sucking the air from your home, cooling it, and blowing it back into the house. That process does reduce the humidity slightly, but pairing your air conditioner with a dehumidifier is a much smarter option.

A dehumidifier works by pulling the moisture out of the air and storing the excess water in a holding tank. Many people keep dehumidifiers in their basements all year to control the dampness that can often be felt in these underground areas. This is a great idea because controlling the humidity in the part of your home that holds the most water will likely help regulate the rest of the house.  

One way to know if your house holds a lot of moisture is to purchase a simple five-dollar humidity gauge from the local hardware store. Ideally, you want the humidity to be under 50 percent. If it’s higher, you might want to consider using a dehumidifier in the main part of your home, especially on hot summer days and in areas where you spend the most time. 

In addition to cooling the air and decreasing moisture, running a dehumidifier during the hottest parts of the hottest days can also prevent mold and mildew growth, eliminate musty odors in the home, and prevent old pipes from sweating. Plus, you can use the water collected in the tank to give your plants a good drink. 

If you’re thinking that a dehumidifier might be a good solution for you, they come in different sizes and can be used for residential or commercial purposes. Generally, a unit will come in 25, 30, and 40-pint models, and on average a 25-pint unit will be sufficient to operate in a 1,000-square-foot area.

Dehumidifiers generally run on about half the energy of an air conditioning unit, so as long as you don’t run them all day, using one shouldn’t affect your energy bill. Just keep windows and doors closed when you run your unit, and only switch the power on during the most humid time of the day, or when the air is above 50 percent humidity. Also, be aware that dehumidifiers by nature are drying, so try not to run them while you’re occupying the room over a long period of time, like when you’re sleeping at night.

Finally, if you have a dehumidifier, be sure to keep the filter clean. Dust, dirt, and debris can build up, preventing air from flowing freely and potentially circulating mold spores throughout the home. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and spray bottle filled with a cleaning solution will do the trick to keep you breathing freely and ensure a longer life for your appliance.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Mold in the Home: A Common Problem in Spring 4-4-24

Mold is an issue that most homeowners have to deal with at one time or another. It’s the damaging by-product of excess moisture that can wreak havoc on your home, and more importantly, your health. With spring in full swing, now is a good time to inspect your house for mold and get rid of it before it does any kind of serious damage. 

You might be familiar with mold or mildew from your shower or bathtub. Since the shower is often wet and the tiles are waterproof, water can sometimes seep into the grout. If the grout is old and can’t handle its repelling duties properly, it becomes a breeding ground for mildew which can generally be cleaned with a good scrub. But what happens when mold starts to grow in the places you can’t clean as easily – places like your ceiling, inside your walls, or in the attic? You’re probably saying, “Not in my house”. Well, guess again.

At least half the homes I visit for remodeling projects have a major mold problem and the owners don’t even know it. How? Because mold generally grows in places that you can’t see – like inside the walls and in the attic. What most people don’t realize is that mold reproduces by releasing spores that you’re breathing in day after day.

How common is this? If you’ve ever had a leak, you’ve most likely had a mold problem. So what can you do about it? You can prevent mold by ensuring your home stays dry. Here are my top tips:

1. Keep your gutters and downspouts clean and clear so water can drain away from the foundation of your house. 

2. Make sure the ground around your house doesn’t slope inward towards the foundation where water can idle.

3. Don’t let a leaky roof go unfixed.  Get it patched up immediately and ask your contractor to inspect for any mold growth.

4. Inside the house, beware of any discoloration on the ceiling.

5. Ensure high moisture areas like bathrooms are well-ventilated with good ceiling fans that don’t vent into the attic.

6. If a leak happens in a carpeted area, don’t just leave it to dry. A damp area can attract mold in less than 48 hours.

7. Ensure large appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines have a catchment tray in case of a malfunction.  

8. If you think your house or basement is susceptible to high moisture, consider purchasing a dehumidifier to regulate the humidity and remove any excess moisture from the air.

If you’ve had a mold problem that you’ve tried to control by scraping, cleaning, and repainting the area, don’t make the same mistake twice. If the mold keeps coming back, that means the issue runs deeper than the eye can see. It’s time to call in the pros.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Home Renovations That Offer Return on Investment

Embarking on home renovations isn’t just about enhancing your living space; it's also an investment in your property's value. Whether you're gearing up to sell or simply aiming to create a more comfortable and stylish home, strategic renovations can offer a substantial return on investment (ROI). 

As a remodeler, there are tried and true home improvement projects known for their potential to elevate both aesthetics and property worth. From kitchen overhauls to energy-efficient upgrades, let’s talk about the renovations that can not only transform your living space but also prove to be wise financial decisions in the long run. Here are some of my favorites that strike the perfect balance between functionality and added value:

Kitchen Remodeling: upgrading countertops, cabinets, appliances, and lighting can enhance both aesthetics and functionality.

Bathroom Renovation: modernizing bathrooms with new fixtures, tiles, and amenities can add value to your home.

Curb Appeal Improvements: enhancing the exterior with landscaping, fresh paint, and an inviting entryway can significantly boost curb appeal.

Energy-Efficient Upgrades: installing energy-efficient windows, doors, insulation, and HVAC systems can attract eco-conscious buyers and reduce long-term utility costs.

Basement Finishing: converting a basement into a usable living space, such as an extra bedroom, office, or entertainment area, can add square footage and appeal.

Attic Insulation: adding insulation to the attic can improve energy efficiency and appeal to buyers looking for homes with lower utility bills.

Deck or Patio Addition: outdoor living spaces can be attractive to potential buyers, especially in areas with favorable climates.

Smart Home Upgrades: adding smart home features, such as a programmable thermostat, security system, or lighting, can make your home more appealing to tech-savvy buyers.

Garage Door Replacement: upgrading the garage door not only enhances curb appeal but also improves energy efficiency and security.

Hardwood Flooring Installation: many homebuyers prefer hardwood floors, so replacing carpet with hardwood can be a wise investment.

Additional Bedroom: adding an extra bathroom can significantly increase a home's value, particularly if it’s a flexible space that can be used as an office.

Painting: a fresh coat of paint, both inside and outside, can make a home look well-maintained and appealing.

Before embarking on any renovation project, it's crucial to research local market trends and consult with real estate professionals to ensure that your investment aligns with the preferences of potential buyers in your area. Keep in mind that each improvement is an investment with the potential for lasting returns. Whether it's the heart of the home, a welcoming curb appeal, or the integration of smart technologies, strategic renovations not only enhance your living experience but also position your property as sought-after in the real estate market. 

Bob O'Donnell is the owner of O'Donnell Bros, Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro”. All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O'Donnell Bros, Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.