September 2022 (222)
Featured Video:
DIY Tile
A great homeowner DIY project is laying tile. The right products, tools and techniques will yield great results. Watch this demonstration as a first step for getting professional results.
Your Questions -- Jim's Answers
Signs A Foundation Needs Repair
Jim discusses foundation upheaval vs. sinking and the causes. Also, he addresses what must be considered to get the full picture of the foundation and why measurements don't always tell the whole story.
Current State of AC Systems
There will be more changes at the federal level surrounding energy efficiency and air conditioners. Jim talks about how this can impact pricing and availability and why if you need a new air conditioner you may want to start shopping now.
A Smarter, Safer Home
The smart home is here to stay, and these smart devices are increasingly becoming easier to use and more affordable. Some of these ingenious devices can help make our homes safer and our lives more efficient and easier, saving you time, energy, and even cash.

The list of available devices now is long, and homeowners are encouraged to do their research and find the best to work with their existing smart assistant device. Every smart device has a companion app, but Alexa, Google Assistant, and HomeKit let you control multiple devices all in one app.

Here is a quick look at four areas where, if you haven’t already, you may consider adding to your home.
Leak Detection Devices
Finding leaks before they cause major damage is now easier than ever because of the proliferation of smart home water-sensing devices that send alerts to your phone when they detect moisture. The most basic DIY devices are small battery-operated devices that are very easy to install and designed to sit on the floor where leaks may occur, such as directly under a refrigerator, sink, toilet, or washing machine. For whole-home protection, look for a leak detection system that monitors your entire water delivery system.These types of systems are usually installed in-line, in an area close to your water meter. They also likely require professional installation because they become a part of your plumbing system.
Good options include:
Flo by Moen Smart Water Detector or Smart Water Shutoff
Flume 2 Smart Home Water Monitor
Phyn Smart Water Sensor
Smart Thermostat
The advantage of a smart thermostat is its ability to learn a household's patterns and adjust heating and cooling according to when a home is occupied or is about to be occupied. This reduces the use of heating and cooling systems when nobody is home for significant periods of time. They also give an in-depth, behind the scenes look into your actual energy usage like never before. And of course, like a wifi thermostat you can control your home's temperature remotely with a connected device.
Good options include:
Nest Learning Thermostat
Ecobee SmartThermostat
Smart Lock
Control your entry and protect your home. Smart locks allow a homeowner to enter their home or provide others access without requiring a traditional key. Instead, the user uses their smartphone or a key fob to wirelessly verify and mechanically unlock the door. Most smart locks come in one of two styles: a deadbolt replacement or a deadbolt adapter (which replaces the thumb turn with a motorized one).
Good options include:
Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro WiFi
Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt
Wyze Lock
August Wi-Fi Smart Lock
Smart Plug
Every smart home needs a smart plug - it's one of the simplest ways to automate your home. A smart plug is more than just a way to control devices plugged into it. It's also a way to monitor your energy usage and estimate how much powering certain devices in your home will cost. This is great if you're trying to save money and be more energy conscious. 

Good options include:
Eve Energy
Wemo WiFi Smart Plug
Thanks for listening - Jim Dutton