Thursday, June 28, 2012

Water damage - Reduce your risk!

 

 

Here are some tips for reducing your risk of water damage from windows & doors:

 

  • Check for leaks around your windows and doors, especially near corners.
  • Check for peeling paint as it can be a sign of water getting into the wood.
  • Inspect for discolorations in paint or caulking, swelling of the window or doorframe or surrounding materials. 

 

 

Source: The Institute for Business Home and Safety  - www.disastersafety.org

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

Water damage - Reduce your risk!

 

Here are some tips for reducing your risk of water damage from your washing machine:

 

  • Turn supply valves off while the home is unoccupied or washing machine is not in use.
  • Leave a 3 to 4 inch gap between the back of the washing machine and the wall to avoid kinking the hose near the valve connection.
  • Check the hoses for cracks, kinks or blisters, which are most commonly found near the hose connection every six months.
  • Washing machine manufacturers recommend replacing washing machine hoses every five years and installing reinforced braided stainless steel hoses.

 

 

 

Source: The Institute for Business Home and Safety  - www.disastersafety.org

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Water damage - Reduce your risk!

 

 

Here are some tips for reducing your risk of water damage from refrigerators/icemakers:

 

  • Inspect the hose every six months. Ensure the valve connection is secure and check for kinks. If kinks are present, replace the hose.
  • Leave a 3 to 4 inch space between the back of the refrigerator and the wall to prevent the hose from crimping.
  • Locate the water shut-off valve. Inspect the valve every six months to make sure the water supply will shut off & replace the valve as needed. 

 

 

Source: The Institute for Business Home and Safety  - www.disastersafety.org

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Reducing your risk - Shower Stall

 

 

Here are some tips for reducing your risk of water damage from shower stalls:

 

  • Inspect tile and grout every six months, paying attention to loose or cracked tiles and cracked or crumbling grout lines. Repair as needed.

 

  • Test the shower pan annually by: 
  1. Blocking the floor drain.
  2. Filling the shower stall with approximately one inch of water.
  3. Using a pencil to mark the water line.
  4. Leaving the water standing in the shower pan for eight hours.
  5. If the water level decreases, contact a plumbing professional.

 

 

Source: The Institute for Business Home and Safety  - www.disastersafety.org

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Memorial Day Weekend

 

As Memorial Day, and the warm weather approaches, take a few moments to make sure your auto and home policies are up-to-date.  For instance, tons of accidents happen when the highways are jammed with vacationers.  Be sure that you are carrying enough liability insurance (or buy an “umbrella” policy) to cover you in the event you are involved in a serious accident.  Also be sure you have rental reimbursement and towing coverage.  

As for your homeowners policy, check with us if you are planning to remodel, build an addition, install a swimming pool, buy a boat, etc.  We’ll help you to determine if your current protection serves your needs. Contact us now by clicking this link today!