July 2016 Newsletter - Texas Home Improvement

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July 2016 (65 )

Benefits of Mulch

Conserve Water

Protect Your Foundation

Nourish Plants

Keep Weeds At Bay

Mulch retains moisture that will benefit your home's foundation and plants. Just two to four inches of mulch can substantially retain soil moisture, slow evaporation, protect plant roots from overheating, and reduce or eliminate weeds.

HOW TO MULCH

Before mulching a plant bed, remove all weeds.
Keep your foundation soaker hoses close to the soil under the mulch.
Work a thin layer of mulch into the soil and then add two to four inches on top. Spread it out, and avoid making big mounds of mulch.
Mulch the entire root zone of the plant out to the drip line (leaf canopy).
When mulching around shrubs and small trees, make an earth basin and keep the mulch pulled back a few inches to prevent rotting the trunks.

The Full Tile Breakdown:

Hard flooring expert Scott Harwell of Floor & Decor talks tile trends, technology and describes the difference between ceramic and porcelain tile.

Your Questions -

Jim's Answers

Hammering Pipes

If you are hearing a hammering sound when you turn on the faucet try these fixes before you call a plumber.

Repairing Drywall Cracks

Ronnie's foundation repair has closed the cracks, but now he needs to eliminate them. Jim walks him through the process to make the walls smooth again.

Are You Ready to Vent?

Did you know...

All asphalt shingle manufacturers' warranties become void if an attic is not properly vented.
A balanced attic ventilation system will reduce your utility costs and lengthen the life of your roof and HVAC system.
Proper attic ventilation can prevent mold and mildew and other temperature and moisture related problems.

Why Vent Your Attic?

Attic ventilation might seem like a minor consideration, but when properly installed, it allows your home to breathe, saving you hundreds of dollars in repair costs.

During warmer months, ventilation helps keep attics cool. It helps prevent hot, dry summer air from delaminating the roof sheathing. It also stops shingles from deteriorating prematurely. What's more, fresh air in the attic makes a home much easier to cool, which can result in lower energy costs.

In winter months, ventilation helps reduce moisture to keep attics dry. It stops water from backing up under shingles, damaging insulation, and rotting the roof structure itself.

To learn more about attic venting contact:

DFW... Greater Houston...

214-698-8443 877-867-3540

Thanks for listening!

Jim Dutton

Coming this week:

Garcia Project

video series release

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Trend Watch

Full Control Is At Your Fingertips

Home automation can mean increased energy efficiency, comfort and safety. You'll be amazed (Jim was) at the what new technology allows you to control in your home. Glen Geltemeyer of Carrier spoke with Jim about their latest Cor thermostat.