Home Reports Atlanta

Welcome from the EBSCO Research Team

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 11:19:00 EST

Having served the metro-Atlanta community for 14 years through our print publication, we are excited to be launching our very own EBSCO Research blog. Our mission is to bring homeowners like you valuable instruction and insider information about...

Preparing Your Home for Winter

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST

Routine home maintenance probably isn’t at the top of many homeowners’ lists this holiday season. However, to increase the likelihood of a warm and safe winter, it’s important to make sure certain parts of your home – such as your furnace, chimney, and hot water heater – have received the attention they need.

Atlanta Plumbing Tips & Seasonal Maintenance

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 01:00:00 EST

Unless the sound of a leaky faucet is keeping you awake at night or a bathtub or shower drain is stopping up, your home’s plumbing system is probably not a top priority on your housekeeping list. Although many homeowners may notice a simple plumbing issue, the problem is often left unresolved...

Making a List, Checking It Twice

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST

Home Reports would like to extend a heartfelt Happy Holidays greeting to all of our homeowners and Best Pick companies. Whether you’re traveling or entertaining at home, we have provided a few helpful tips to ensure your holidays are safe.

Going “Green” with Atlanta Plumbing Services

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 03:00:00 EST

If you’ve ever been in the market for new appliances, you’ve probably come across “green” counterparts to standard appliances. In an effort to not only save money on monthly utility bills but also reduce electrical, gas, and water usage, many homeowners...

Plumbing Lingo: Common Phrases You Should Know

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST

No matter how large or how small, every valve, pump, and pipe of your home’s plumbing system must perform exactly as it was intended, because each part is designed to carry, store, and dispense only a certain amount of...

Know Thy Insulation

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST

When deciding what kind of insulation to put in your home, you need to consider the kind of material you will use...

What It’s Like to Insulate Your Home

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST

Whether you’re insulating your home for sound, comfort, or the tax break, it is helpful to know what to expect after you pick up your phone and dial the number for your local Atlanta insulation company...

Are You Familiar with R-Value?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST

When making the decision to add insulation to your home, you may get tripped up by the term “R-value.” The R-value indicates the resistance to heat flow, and the higher the R-value, the higher the resistance. This equals less heat loss and a more even temperature inside your home, which is beneficial...

Speak the Insulation Lingo

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST

There are numerous reasons to insulate your home: for your comfort, to block out sound, to lower utility bills, to conserve resources, or to get a tax credit. “Insulation is one of the very few areas of home improvement that pays you back,” asserts Jeff Woodman of Atlanta, Georgia’s Woodman Insulation. If you do not work in the construction business...

Preventing Water Intrusion Problems before they Start!

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST

An expert waterproofing contractor can dry up your basement, but as a homeowner, you might be asking if there’s anything that can be done to prevent water intrusion problems in the first place.

Waterproofing – The Installation

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST

A wet basement has to be addressed. The problem will never go away on its own, and left too long, it can invite a host of other household problems: foundation cracks, mold, and termites, to name just a few...

Greening the Waterproofing Industry

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 02:49:00 EST

The U.S Green Building Council’s Green Jobs Study forecasts that “green construction” will generate an additional $554 billion in gross domestic product and support 7.9 million jobs between 2009 and 2013. Already there are advances...

Waterproofing Watchwords for Homeowners

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 01:55:00 EST

Here are just a few terms that are useful to know when dealing with a professional waterproofing contractor...

Common Types of Shingles

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST

Although there are several components working in tandem that compose a roof, none is more visible, and arguably more important, than its shingles. Choosing the right material to serve as the skin of your roof involves weighing the relative importance of many attributes, such as price, durability...

Why Choose a Professional?

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST

Mark Ashe, president of Echols Roofing, Siding & Home Improvements, has a warning for homeowners:

“I do not know one local, professional roofer that sends crews of men out to knock on doors. You do not do business with somebody that solicits you first for anything....The people that knock on your door, even if your roof is new and pristine, they’re going to come off that ladder and tell you, ‘Oh, you’ve got storm damage.’”

Cool Roofs

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 02:42:00 EST

With energy costs zapping more and more of homeowners’ budgets, many are looking for ways to reduce their electricity usage. Some of the more popular strategies include unplugging idle electronic devices, turning the thermostat down a few degrees, and purchasing ENERGY STAR-rated appliances. However, there is also a less well-known part of the home that can produce energy savings: the roof...

Important Roofing Terms

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST

When it comes to using unfamiliar terminology, few home service contractors can outdo roofers. Many homeowners are intimidated by the use of technical jargon and afraid to ask questions, even though they’re entrusting the contractor with their money and their home. Homeowners who are prepared to talk shop with their roofer will have a better understanding of the roofing process and be better able to ask the right questions. With that in mind, we’d like to offer a handy list of important roofing terms for homeowners to consult before talking to a roofer:

Updates from the EBSCO Research Team

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 03:00:00 EST

To announce the 2012 arrival of our Home Reports and Best Pick Reports publications in metros around the country (including Atlanta, Chicago, Maryland, DC, Northern Virginia, Houston, and Dallas), as well as the introduction of our Best Pick mobile app, we at EBSCO Research are bringing our blog service to even more metros. EBSCO Research’s Vice President and General Manager Greg Robb weighs in on the exciting happenings:

Tips to Maintaining a Healthy Yard

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 04:08:00 EST

A lawn needs about an inch of water administered weekly year-round to stay healthy, but accurately measuring just how much that is can be puzzling. Dick Bare, owner of Arbor-Nomics Turf, an Atlanta lawn treatment company, suggests setting up an empty tuna can with your sprinkler systems. “Tuna fish cans are about an inch deep. Run the sprinkler system or set up a sprinkler and hose until you’ve filled up that tuna fish can.

Insight into Common Lawn Problems

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST

Even the most diligent efforts to maintain a gorgeous, green lawn can be undone by grass diseases and pests. However, knowing what to look out for can help a homeowner get the jump on things that might be lurking under the surface, waiting to wipe out your investment.

Understanding the Lawn Treatment Lingo

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST

Aeration involves using a tool or a machine to puncture the soil. By loosening the soil under a lawn, aeration incorporates oxygen into the soil, helps water to penetrate, and improves both drainage and the absorption of nutrients vital for turf growth. Many years ago, home lawn enthusiasts would sometimes wear golf spikes and walk across their lawns to accomplish aeration, but this method is not recommended, as golf spikes are not long enough to accomplish effective aeration.

The Lawn View - Great Grasses for the Area

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 03:22:00 EST

There are several types of grass that grow very well in the metro-Atlanta region. The most common are Bermuda, fescue, zoysia, and centipede. Fescue, a cool-season, shade-tolerant grass, remains green through the winter months but can turn brown in the heat of summer.

Understanding HVAC System Maintenance

Thu, 03 May 2012 10:59:00 EST

During hot, Southern summers, air conditioning is essential for homeowners who want to stay comfortable throughout the day and night. And yet, despite its central importance, many homeowners take their HVAC systems for granted.

The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide in Your Home

Thu, 10 May 2012 05:00:00 EST

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and toxic gas. Because it can’t be seen, tasted, or smelled, carbon monoxide begins to affect people before they’re even aware of its presence. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that several thousand people are taken to the emergency room each year because of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Central vs. Portable Humidifiers

Thu, 17 May 2012 05:00:00 EST

During the colder months, many homeowners experience dry skin, cracked lips, and itchy eyes caused by dry air inside the home. This occurs most frequently in the winter because of what happens to the outside air as it’s brought inside, heated, and released throughout the home.

What You Need to Know about Energy-efficient HVAC Systems

Thu, 24 May 2012 04:00:00 EST

According to ENERGY STAR, a joint program of the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency, the average home is responsible for twice the greenhouse gas emissions of the average car.

Everything You Didn’t Know You Wanted to Learn About Termites

Thu, 31 May 2012 10:00:00 EST

Termites are Mother Nature’s way of keeping the land clear from fallen trees and other cellulose debris. Subterranean termites build their colonies underground and create a labyrinth of pencil-width tubes in the mud through which they travel to gain access to their food sources.

Don’t Let Unfamiliar Pest Control Terms Intimidate You!

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 10:00:00 EST

If you own a home, chances are you’ve met with a pest control company, and you may have heard industry jargon you did not understand. Don’t let unfamiliar pest control terms intimidate you. Here is a quick guide to some words you may hear from your pest control company.

Pest Control Tips: 7 Ways You’re Persuading Pests to Come Live with You

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 01:00:00 EST

According to Rodger Breda of Breda Pest Management in Atlanta, bugs are just like people: they have three basic needs. “To survive, you need food, water, and shelter. The same goes for bugs,” explains Rodger. Typically, the most popular places...

How Technology Is Changing the Way One Company Finds Termites

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 10:00:00 EST

If you own your home, chances are you’re already wary about termites—especially if you live in the middle of the “Termite Belt.” Typical termite inspections often involve searching the basement or crawling under the house looking for...

An Unexpected “Green” Way to Combat Pests

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 09:00:00 EST

Environmentally friendly, or “green,” pest control is no longer just for homeowners concerned about their small children or pets being exposed to chemical agents. With the recent rise in environmental awareness, many homeowners are now...

Things to Consider when Replacing Siding on Your House

Thu, 05 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST

Purchasing new siding for your home is a decision with major significance, both aesthetically and functionally. Unlike a fresh paint job or decorating scheme, new siding is something you’ll likely commit to for many years. By making the right decisions in terms of color and material, your siding will be a source of pride whenever you pull into your driveway. To that end, we’d like to give you a brief rundown of what to consider when purchasing new siding for your home.

Different Types of Siding and How to Choose What"s Best for You

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST

Siding can be a beautifying and cost effective element of any home, and there are many options in siding materials that homeowners can select from, even going so far as to mix designs in multi-story homes. Monte Ramey, general manager of Brennan Enterprises in Dallas, weighed in with a pro’s view on some of the most currently popular siding choices.

Energy-efficient Siding: Is Vinyl the Choice for You?

Thu, 19 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST

When it comes to saving money on monthly utility bills, homeowners have a seemingly endless list of updates to choose from. Major appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and washer/dryers are much more efficient and have shorter cycle times than their older counterparts. Low-flow plumbing fixtures and tankless water heaters all help reduce water waste and usage.

Mold Alert: Tips On How to Clean Mold Off Your House"s Siding

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST

Mold on siding is not only unsightly, but it can also cause health problems and damage to your home. So what causes this gross fungus in the first place?

So You Called In the Pros: Types of Carpet Cleaning They Might Use

Thu, 02 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST

Maintenance and cleaning will help support a carpet’s durability and extend its beauty for many years. In some cases, regular and correct carpet cleaning is necessary to preserve the warranty on a carpet.

Taking Care of Spot"s Spots: Removing Pet Urine Stains and Smells

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST

There are over 85 million households in the United States that include cats and/or dogs among their members. That’s over 85 million carpets, rugs, and floors with the potential to be ruined with pet urine stains and odors. But with the help of a professional carpet and upholstery cleaning company, homeowners can prevent pet accidents from turning into flooring disasters.

Upholstery Cleaning Tips for Fresher, Flawless Fabrics

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST

Is your upholstery looking a bit dingy? Are noticeable stains bothering you every time you walk into a room? Perhaps it’s time to give that fabric a good cleaning. Before you get on your hands and knees with a scrubby brush or spend the money to rent a steam cleaner, you need to identify the type of cleaning that’s best for your unique upholstery.

Home Remedies for Carpet Stains (And When to Call In a Pro)

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 12:00:00 EST

When it comes to carpet, most homeowners rely on conventional wisdom passed down through the generations to solve their spill and stain issues. What’s interesting to note is that much of what we think we know about cleaning runs completely counter to what professional carpet cleaners and manufacturers deem healthy for carpets.

How to Match Different Types of Flooring to Your Lifestyle

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 03:28:00 EST

When it comes to choosing flooring for a home, we are all familiar with the battle between carpet and hardwood. The pros of carpet include being warm under your feet, absorbing more sound, having a comparatively lower cost, and offering an endless variety of styles and colors. But hardwood flooring is classic. Good hardwood can turn heads.

Types of Asphalt Shingles: What Are They, and What Do They Do for Your Roof?

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST

Due to their ease of installation, durability, and relatively low price, asphalt shingles have become the most popular type of shingle in the United States. In fact, over 15 billion square feet of asphalt shingles are manufactured and installed annually.

Investigate That Drip! A Homeowner’s Guide to Finding Roof Leaks

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST

Wait...where did the little brown stain on the ceiling come from? Is that a subtle dripping noise from overhead? The possibility of a leaking roof is enough to strike terror in the hearts of most homeowners.

It’s Time to Replace Your Roof: How to Keep the Process Hassle-free

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST

Even though you won’t be the one up on top of your roof hammering away, there are still many things you can and should do to contribute to and prepare your property and yourself for the roofing process.

After the Storm – “Do I Need a New Roof?”

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST

Doppler radar can tell you when a storm is approaching, but it can’t tell you what kind of damage it will do to your roof. There isn’t always much you can do in preparation, but there are a few things you need to know in case damage occurs.

The EBSCO Research Guide to the Types of Electrical Services for Your Home

Thu, 04 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST

Some of your home’s most important electrical equipment is located outside. A professional electrician can help maintain these devices and install some additional amenities to make the great outdoors even greater.

Avoid Disaster: Maintaining Electrical Safety in the Home

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST

Residential electricity as an industry is fairly young; electrical systems have only been a standard installation in new homes since about 1930. In fact, most of the evolution of safety features within the electrical industry has come about in the last 40 years.

Bringing Home Baby: Child Electrical Safety Tips

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST

Having children shifts the way you approach electrical safety in the home. Children are often unaware of many of the things you may take for granted about electrical safety.

Sparks Flying? When to Call an Electrician

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 01:00:00 EST

There are certain aspects of home ownership and maintenance that are easily tackled by homeowners with do-it-yourself skills. However, when it comes to electricity, issues are best left to a professional.

Building a House? Consider the Different Types of Chimneys

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST

If you have plans to build a home or remodel your current one, you might be enticed this winter by the image of a warm fireplace. Few things make a place quite as homey as a glowing fire around which you can warm up your toes, sip on a cup of cocoa, and watch as winter passes by outside.

EBSCO Research Volunteers Become Trailblazers on National Make A Difference Day

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST

EBSCO Research partnered up with Hands On Atlanta and 11Alive last Saturday, October 27th, to join millions of other volunteers around the world on Make A Difference Day, the largest national day of community service.

Don’t Sweep It Under the Rug: Common Problems with Chimneys

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 11:00:00 EST

A fireplace can be a wonderful addition to any room in the house where the family might gather, providing warmth, light, and a cozy ambiance. However, a fireplace system has to be carefully maintained to make sure that the common problems that affect chimneys don’t impact the safety and beauty of your family’s favorite gathering spot.

Clearing the Air: How Cleaning Your Chimney Makes Your House Safer (Part 1 of 2)

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 09:00:00 EST

Although the image of soot-blackened Victorian chimney sweeps is outdated, professional chimney cleaning—and the attendant benefits—is still as important as ever. Clogged or neglected chimneys are not only less efficient and smellier, but they can also pose safety risks.

Clearing the Air: How Cleaning Your Chimney Makes Your House Safer (Part 2 of 2)

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST

In addition to scheduling regular inspections and sweepings, which is discussed in more detail in part one of this blog, homeowners can take further steps to discourage the buildup of creosote, minimize the threat of harmful emissions, and ensure the safety of their chimneys.

What Getting Your Chimney Capped Does for You

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 08:00:00 EST

For many homeowners, fireplace season means warming cold toes by a crackling fire, safe from the strong winds and chilly weather that fall brings. However, without a proper chimney cap, the fireplace could provide no such haven—homeowners may be forced to deal with rain and snow in the home, animals looking for shelter, and potential chimney fires.

Simple and Effective Garage Door Maintenance Tips

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 10:00:00 EST

After a long day at work, you return home to your sanctuary of peace. As you pull into the driveway and hit the garage door button on your remote, the door begins to open as it usually does, but this time something goes wrong.

Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors: What Are Your Options? (Part 1 of 2)

Tue, 04 Dec 2012 11:00:00 EST

Purchasing energy-efficient windows and doors for your home will aid in reducing your energy bill and increasing the comfort of your home. While you may have already decided to buy energy-efficient windows and doors, you still have to decide which ones are best for your home.

Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors: What Are Your Options? (Part 2 of 2)

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST

Discussed in Part 1, the structure and material of windows and doors can affect their ability to insulate your home. But, homeowners often face a dizzying array of terms and labels that classify the energy efficiency of these products.

What to Look for in Replacement Windows

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST

There are several reasons why homeowners should take a little extra time when choosing replacement windows. First of all, as a key component of energy efficiency, windows have lately become much more varied and high-tech. Moreover, windows are a defining feature of every house, so homeowners would be wise to find replacements with curb appeal.

Choosing the Best Types of Glass for Your Windows (Part 1 of 2)

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST

Windows can make or break a home’s thermal performance. Windows with the wrong type of glass will cause rooms to overheat in summer, and in winter, the windows will leak heat like a sieve.

Choosing the Best Types of Glass for Your Windows (Part 2 of 2)

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST

Discussed in Part 1 of this blog, multi-pane windows have become the standard in the industry due to their insulating power. In addition to having multiple panes, a professional can apply important coatings or treatments to your windows that will affect not only their energy efficiency but also the safety of your home and family.

Single- or Multi-Pane Windows? Pros, Cons, and More

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST

If you shy away from your windows during the winter, battle a constantly stifling home in the summer, hope to cut down on fading fabrics near windows, or simply want to feel more secure in your home, then a window upgrade can help address these common homeowner woes.

Tips on How to Clean Your Wood Fence (Part 1 of 2)

Tue, 01 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST

Many homeowners choose a wood fence over other materials because the classic look of a wood fence is hard to beat. However, over time the elements can dull a wood fence’s appearance and leave it looking worse for wear.

Tips on How to Clean Your Wood Fence (Part 2 of 2)

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 10:59:00 EST

Proper cleanings are an essential component of fence maintenance, discussed in Part 1 of our blog. But, there are additional treatments that can both reduce the amount of necessary cleanings you will have to perform and increase the lifespan of your fence.

Types of Wood Fencing: Landscape Beautifier or Necessity?

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST

Fences have long been regarded as a great way to maintain peace between neighbors. Having a fence not only provides a clear boundary around your property, but it protects your family and home from outsiders as well.

Different Types of Gates to Suit Your Fencing Needs (Part 1 of 2)

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST

Few images capture the essence of the classic American home quite like the white picket fence. However, today’s homes feature a wide variety of fence constructions built to increase the privacy, security, beauty, and value of your home.

Different Types of Gates to Suit Your Fencing Needs (Part 2 of 2)

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST

Discussed in Part 1 of our blog, automated gate systems are available in a variety of styles and constructions to suit your security needs. The second installment of this blog looks at how gates can help protect other important members and areas of your home.

Fence Construction: Details to Keep in Mind

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 11:00:00 EST

A fence may seem like an uncomplicated structure, but building one comes with a unique list of concerns. According to John Belli, president of Tru-Link Fence in the Chicagoland area, many of these issues relate to the initial stages of fence construction projects, when homeowners are choosing a site for their fence and selecting materials.

Give Your Grass a Head Start: The How-to’s of Lawn Scalping

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 10:00:00 EST

Having the greenest, healthiest-looking lawn on the block is a coveted title for homeowners across the country. While there are many strategies for keeping your lawn in top shape, it is important not to overlook scalping as part of your annual care. Tom Poen, president of Weedex, Inc., in Dallas/Ft. Worth, offers his expertise on lawn scalping.

Different Types of Heating Systems for Your Home (Part 1 of 2)

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST

Home heating systems have come a long way since the humble fireplace, and while technological advances and new options have made heating your home more efficient than ever, the amount of choices available today can make selecting a heating system seem daunting.

Different Types of Heating Systems for Your Home (Part 2 of 2)

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST

When choosing a heating system, it’s important to consider energy efficiency. Not only will an energy-efficient heating system help lessen the impact of your environmental footprint, it will also save you money in utility bills. Look for ENERGY STAR-rated products, and ask your contractor about the most energy-efficient system that could work for your home.

The Benefits of Having an HVAC Maintenance Program

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST

The importance of regular HVAC maintenance is well known to building managers at large facilities like office buildings and college campuses. Those professionals employ heating and air conditioning contractors who use sophisticated tools like predictive maintenance software to fine-tune their energy usage, preempt problems with their HVAC systems, and, ultimately, save money.

Shivering in Your Home? Learn About Different Types of Heat Loss (Part 1 of 2)

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST

Are your teeth chattering from the cold while you’re watching television? Jaw clenched while trying to work in your frigid home office? Freezing inside your house during the winter is not only bad for your dental work—it’s bad for your pocketbook, too. There are many places throughout your home where you could be losing heat.

Shivering in Your Home? Learn About Different Types of Heat Loss (Part 2 of 2)

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST

Part 1 of this blog post discussed one of the most obvious culprits of heat loss: inadequate insulation. But there are plenty of other vulnerabilities in your home’s “energy envelope.” Some are apparent, like doors and windows, while others—like light fixtures—may surprise you.

Heat Pump Freezing Up? Steps to Combat Winter"s Frost

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST

The inner workings of HVAC systems can be perplexing to many people, but finding ice on a heat pump during the hot summer months will surely spark confusion among even the savviest homeowners. Thankfully, there are precautions that homeowners can take to avoid having their heat pumps freeze over during any season.

Do I Need Pest Control? Indoor vs. Outdoor Service Plans (Part 1 of 2)

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST

A roach scurrying across your kitchen floor, the skittering sound of paws coming from your attic, the telltale sign of wood damage left behind by termites: these are clear signs of a pest problem. No matter where you live, sooner or later you’re probably going to have a pest control issue.

Do I Need Pest Control? Indoor vs. Outdoor Service Plans (Part 2 of 2)

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST

Indoor service plans, detailed in Part 1 of our blog, are often recommended for homeowners who are already combating a pest situation. For those of you hoping to stay ahead of the problem or avoid using pesticides inside your home, outdoor service plans can be an ideal preventative measure.

What Do Pest Control Companies Do? A Typical Day in Your Technician"s Life

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST

A day in the work life of a pest control technician is a busy one. Pest management companies service residential customers as well as businesses and corporate clients, but according to Rusty Markland, operations manager of PestNow in Northern Virginia, through it all a technician’s main focus is providing high-quality service.

Different Kinds of Termites and the Unseen Damage They Cause (Part 1 of 2)

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 05:00:00 EST

By the time you notice termite damage in or around the home, it’s often already extensive. The US Department of Agriculture estimates that termites cause over a billion dollars of damage to homes in America every year. With that monetary level of destruction, it’s best to know what kinds of termites thrive in your area and what they can do to your home if left unchecked.

Different Kinds of Termites and the Unseen Damage They Cause (Part 2 of 2)

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST

No matter what part of the US you live in, Part 1 of our blog shows that there’s likely a species of termite that could cause severe damage to your home if left unchecked. But how can you determine whether or not these elusive pests are hollowing out your home right under your nose? Read on for telltale signs that you might be suffering from a termite infestation.

Got Fleas? Find Out the Best Ways to Get Rid of Fleas in Your Home

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST

If you’ve ever tried to catch a flea, you know that they’re resilient, hard-to-kill parasites—fleas have flattened bodies, making them very difficult to squash. To make matters worse, fleas change radically over the course of their life cycle and must be targeted differently as eggs, juveniles, and adults.

Need a Paint Job? Learn About Different Types of Interior Paint (Part 1 of 2)

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 01:00:00 EST

You’re looking to paint the inside of your home, but you’ve walked down the paint aisle at your local hardware store and seen the hundreds of different kinds of wall paints. Should you pick an enamel? Latex? And what kind of finish is the best? If this sounds like you, read on for a quick rundown of the most popular paints and finishes so you can make an informed decision and start planning your home’s new look.

Need a Paint Job? Learn About Different Types of Interior Paint (Part 2 of 2)

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST

Part 1 of this blog post discusses the qualities of various kinds of interior paints, including their look, durability, and how easy to clean they are. The finish of the paint, how it looks once dried, is also important on both an aesthetic and a practical level.

Essential Steps for Preparing to Paint a Room

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST

Whether you’re looking to freshen up some of your walls or head in a bold new direction with color in your home, preparing to paint a room can be just as important as the actual paint job itself. Dave Williams, founder and president of Williams Professional Painting in Northern Virginia and Maryland, offers some tips to help you prep like a pro.

Get Creative! Using Color and Design to Modernize Your Home (Part 1 of 2)

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST

A new paint job can be a great way to update your home’s décor, but the seemingly infinite variety of colors and finishes can make even the most design-savvy homeowners feel uncertain. Don’t dread the brush and roller, though; a little pre-planning can help you choose the perfect color and design to give your home a fresh and modern look—without the stress that often tags along.

Get Creative! Using Color and Design to Modernize Your Home (Part 2 of 2)

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST

Selecting a color that complements and accentuates your existing décor, as discussed in Part 1 of this blog, is just the first step to a creative paint job. There are also painting techniques homeowners can use to create distinctive wall textures or even change the entire atmosphere of a room.

Home Reports 2013 Released by EBSCO Research

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 01:00:00 EST

The launch of the 2013 edition of Home Reports is under way, and the EBSCO Research staff is excited to connect you with the highest-rated companies in Atlanta, as determined by you and your neighbors. If you live in one of the areas where we conduct research, you should have already received a copy of our blue-and-white Home Reports book.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Paint Job Looking Like New

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST

After finishing the massive task of painting your house, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the new look of your home. But whether you hired a contractor or tackled the job on your own, painting your house’s interior or exterior can be a big investment of your time and money.

Get the Scoop on Automatic Lawn Sprinkler Systems (Part 1 of 2)

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST

There are more benefits to an automatic lawn sprinkler than just keeping your lawn green. A sprinkler system will save you the time you would have spent lugging around hoses to water your whole yard. In addition, depending on the size of your lawn, you may be able to conserve water using an automatic sprinkler system versus watering by hand.

Get the Scoop on Automatic Lawn Sprinkler Systems (Part 2 of 2)

Thu, 02 May 2013 10:00:00 EST

As discussed in Part 1 of this blog post, designing a sprinkler system requires a lot of measuring, planning, and digging. Now you can learn about the fun part: selecting your sprinkler heads. Read on to find out more about the technology you’ll need to water your lawn efficiently and precisely.

Simple Ways to Conserve Water with a Sprinkler System

Thu, 09 May 2013 10:00:00 EST

With a new sprinkler system, you can enjoy your lawn year-round—without the added stress of keeping it healthy. But before you program your system and wait for your lush, green lawn to grow, follow these simple steps for setting up and maintaining your system.

How Do Sprinkler System Zones Work? (Part 1 of 2)

Tue, 14 May 2013 10:00:00 EST

When talking about sprinkler systems, the word sprinkle itself may be misleading. Rather than spritzing aimlessly, a sprinkler system is actually carefully designed to direct water to different parts of a lawn in an exact, controlled way.

How Do Sprinkler System Zones Work? (Part 2 of 2)

Thu, 16 May 2013 10:00:00 EST

Now that you’ve analyzed your yard in terms of the location of trees, slopes, shade, grass, flowers, and more, you can begin to understand which sprinkler heads are best for you and how to lay out your yard for maximum coverage.