Autumn Lawn Care

The stores are already bringing out the Christmas decorations, and we are shuffling our way into the holiday seasons. Thanksgiving is around the corner, and each day the weather turns just a little colder. As the leaves are falling, your lawns are beginning to become covered, and muddied. Even though in the fall you’ll spend less time outside in your yard, you can still take care of it through the winter, and prepare it to be healthy when spring hits again. Here’s your fall to-do list for a healthy lawn all year round. 

Embrace the leaves: The trees shed, and the leaves will fall. It may be a family tradition to rake them into a big pile for your children to leap into. While fun, did you know you can use the leaves as a natural fertilizer? The task is simple. When dry, the leaves are easily cut and broken. By mulching them, or reducing them to small sizes and letting them scatter across the lawn, they will decompose among the grass blades and be natural nourishment for your lawn all winter. The easiest way to achieve this is to mow them! On a dry day, remove the bag from your lawn mower, and go across the lawn a couple times. This will chop and scatter the leaves.

Maim the moss: While leaves make a great fertilizer for your lawn, moss does not. Moss makes a stronger appearance after a drought, or for us in the Pacific Northwest, after a long, dry summer. You may have noticed it threatening your yard already. There are many other factors that can contribute to its growth, but you don’t want it to consume your lawn over the winter. Ditch raking the leaves, and rake the moss instead. If you see only a small patch, this may be sufficient as long as you get it at the roots. For most lawns, it’s wise to first apply a moss killer. Once the moss has browned or blackened, rake it out. If you wish to take it a step further, you can even sprinkle new grass seed in its place to encourage healthy growth.

Aerate, aerate, aerate: Aeration is one of the simplest, yet most effective activities to encourage healthy lawn growth. Once every two years, in the fall, take a garden fork and poke holes at four-inch intervals. This creates space for water and air to penetrate deep into the soil, providing nourishment for the grass at the roots.

Sow and grow: You may be surprised to learn that early Autumn is actually a great month for growing grass. The soil is still warm from the summer, yet moist from the days of rain. If you have bald spots, sprinkle some seeds to thicken it up. You may even consider sprinkling your entire lawn with a thin layer of seeds. The recommended rate for new lawns will be too dense for an already-populated lawn, but half that rate or less will give your lawn the extra boost it needs.

Although we think of winter as the season snow falls and dirt turns to mud, it doesn’t mean your lawn needs to be destroyed. Good lawn care now will keep it healthy until spring hits again, and give you a head start on a beautiful landscape all summer long. If you need help, or are more comfortable with a professional, you can find landscapers we recommend to do your lawn autumn maintenance for you! Visit us online atresponsiblecontractors.com to find someone we trust to help your home.

Spotlight on: Signature Window & Door Replacement

Here’s a pop quiz! What do the weather, design, lighting, and comfort all have in common? The answer: Windows. Would it surprise you to learn that windows do more than just let in some light? What if you were told that they played a crucial role in managing your home’s temperature and energy usage? The truth is, windows do all these and more. Windows are responsible for keeping the heat in, and the cold rain out, in addition to other debris, bugs, and dust. In addition to their practical job, they also make a big difference in your home’s design and lighting. So how important are good windows to you? When you’re ready to make them a priority, you need to call Signature Window & Door Replacement.

Located in Auburn, WA, and serving the greater Tacoma and Seattle areas, Signature Window & Door Replacement are your window and door experts. Representing a wide variety of manufacturers, they have the knowledge and skill to help you select the best windows for your home: aesthetically, and functionally. When it comes to design, they offer hundreds of options, and customization through an assortment of trim designs. When you call Signature Window & Door Replacement, you can expect to have an expert help you choose the best windows for your home, make the design work, and move on to top quality installation.

Even the best windows are only as good as the installation, and that is why, when selecting a contractor, it’s important to be confident in his skill. Signature Window & Door Replacement employees installation specialists, who are craftsman with a decade or more of experience. With some of the best technicians in the industry, they set a high standard. They are so confident, in fact, that they offer complete warranties on all their windows and doors, both the product and the installation.

Signature Window & Door Replacement know that your home is among the biggest investments you’ll make. It’s personal, it’s where you spend your time, and it’s where your family will make grow and make memories. They know that compromise isn’t an option, and have done their best to build a strong reputation, so that you will have confidence and peace of mind in your windows and doors.

At Responsible Contractors, we aim to bring you the best in each industry. When it comes to windows and doors, we can’t think of a better company to call than Signature Window & Door Replacement. To read more about them and find other companies we recommend, visit us online at responsiblecontractors.com.

Enchanted Evenings: Outdoor Lighting

We’ve all driven through the neighborhood with beautiful, magical homes at night, wondering how their landscaper made the yard look that spectacular under a dark sky. Not all of us can afford a landscape designer, but all of us can create a beautiful outdoor landscape! The winter, when the sun sets before many families sit down for dinner, is the time of year you will want your front yard to look inviting, and your guests to be able to find their cars without tripping in the dark. So here’s what to know about outdoor lighting.

There are many choices when it comes to outdoor lights. From wall light and lanterns, to hanging lights, ceiling lights, flood lighting, cove lighting, lights for decks and steps, the choices can get overwhelming. How do you choose what is right for your yard?

First, consider the purpose. Do you just need something basic to light the pathway? Are you in need of some flood lighting on the driveway? Do you have a wrap-around deck that hasn’t been used past dark? The scale of your project will help you choose the appropriate lighting. When you have an idea of what you want, determine the approximate square footage of the area lit. You can use a simple formula to roughly estimate how much wattage your project might use: Multiply the square footage by 1.5. While not exact, it will give you an estimate of how much energy you’ll be adding onto your monthly bill.

Next, consider your project, and options to conserve energy. If you want to turn your home into a light exhibit, you should prepare to use significant energy doing so. Today’s market does offer some energy-saving options, though! When shopping, look for lighting with the Energy Star logo on the packaging. You might also consider LED bulbs. While the look may be different than what you’ll get from a traditional incandescent bulb, the energy savings can reach up to 75 percent, and they have a significantly longer life span. Another great design tip that can conserve energy is to install light-control options. Dimmers, motion sensors, and timers are among the options on the market today. These make your home smarter and give you options to use light only as needed.

Did you know that you can actually choose light bulbs based on desired color? Bulbs come with ratings that will tell you how the light will appear. Ranging from 2700k-7000k, the lower the number, the warmer the light.  On the upper end, anything over 4000k will appear cool, white, or blue. Use this knowledge to set your home’s ambience.

Some other tips to keep in mind: Only use fixtures designed for the outdoors. It’s important to use weather-resistant materials, and the simplest way to do so is to only use a light outside that was made to be outside. Remember when lighting to keep it reasonable. You don’t need the brightest lights in every corner of the property, and you’ll want to make sure the light stays in your yard. It’s not neighborly to let your lights reach your neighbors’ homes. And remember your priorities before you get carried away. Walkways, entryways, and any feature you wish to highlight. Good design highlights the focus points, and provides the right ambience elsewhere, and as needed. Lastly, don’t forget to have fun! Design is always an exciting update, and now you’ll have a reason to look forward to the shorter days.

Remember, if you do need help, we can refer you to a professional. At Responsible Contractors, we aim to bring you the best of construction. To see contractors we recommend to help you with your home, visit us online at responsiblecontractors.com. For a specific recommendation, contact us! We are always happy to give you a referral.

Before You Turn on Your Heater

Our summer heat has finally left us, and while fall has been pleasantly warm, the cold weather is just around the corner. Soon your home will grow cold, and blankets, sweaters, and slippers will all make an appearance. Before you start using the heater, though, it’s important to have your systems checked. Your home’s heating system has been resting, unused for months. Here’s why you need to have it checked.

The first, and most important reason, is for your safety. According to the National Fire Prevention Association’s website, heating equipment is a leading cause of home fire deaths. Why is this? Your heat exchanger is responsible for transferring heat from one substance to another, allowing heat to move throughout the home. While not in every home, heat exchangers are in a variety of heating systems, and found in many homes. When debris builds up, or if your system is allowed to cool to too low of a temperature, it can crack. This can lead to house fires, and there may not be any noticeable warning signs other than having it inspected by a professional. The other common danger with unchecked heat exchangers, is they provide an opportunity for carbon monoxide links. We all know of this silent killer, but did you know that in the United States, it is responsible for approximately 430 deaths per year? It’s not worth taking a chance.

The next reason you need to have your heating system checked is to keep your energy usage and bill down. According to the Department of Energy, heating and cooling account for approximately 56 percent of American homes’ energy usage. A heating system which hasn’t been checked in months may not be operating efficiently. Or you may have an outdated heating system in your home. Either way, these will cost you more money to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

We recommend having your heating checked each fall, so that when winter comes, you can maintain a desirable temperature, with confidence that your family is safe and your system is efficient. Don’t know who to call? We can help! To find a professional we recommend to inspect, and if necessary repair or replace your home’s heating system, visit us online atresponsiblecontractors.com. Or contact us and we can give you a direct referral!

Spotlight on: My Ph.D Services

Plumbing, heating, and drains. Three essential components of your home. Three systems that are expected to function when needed. Three jobs you don’t want to have to touch yourself. So why do it yourself, when you have the right company to call? Located in Tacoma, WA, My Ph.D Services is family owned and operated. With over 13 years of experience and thousands of completed jobs, they are difficult to surprise, and always ready to help! Having a home emergency? They have after-hour emergency help available, as well.

My Ph.D Services are fully licensed plumbers, and offer a full selection of plumbing services. They can work with you residentially, or with your business. Leaky faucet? Toilet not working? Garbage disposal smells funny? They are prepared to resolve these, and more. Their emergency line is a great one to have in your phone, in case you ever find yourself with a bathroom outbreak.  In addition to being your go-to emergency number, they are a great resource for remodels and new construction. They are your local, high-quality plumbing professionals!

Of course, plumbing isn’t the only thing they do! They are a great resource for various methods of heating as well. They repair and install many types of hot water systems, from gas, to electric, to tankless, and boilers. If you are remodeling, they can help you choose the right heating system for your home! Hydronic heating is a good choice for allergy sufferers, as it heats the home without circulating dust and impurities. Radiant floor heating systems are a creative, luxurious way to bring your home to a comfortable temperature as well. And the ever-envied solar heating is also an option when you work with My Ph.D Services! This is a great option for those who care about having an environmentally friendly and efficient home. But, don’t take our word for it. Call My Ph.D Services and let the experts more thoroughly explain your options.

Drain cleaning can seem like a small task, but is important for a healthy water system. As dirt, grease and debris accumulate with usage, it can cause blockages, which will lead to messy back-ups that can reach your sewer lines. Many just grab a drain cleaner from their local hardware store, but there are alternatives that will not be so harsh on your sewer and skeptic system. My Ph.D Services has the skills and equipment to provide that alternative! When you notice a sink is draining slower than it ought to, consider calling them to take care of it before it turns into a messy blockage.

There are many moving parts to a healthy, efficient, functioning home. Plumbing, heating, and draining are among these parts. Take care of your home, and make sure these systems are working as they need to be. If you run into a problem, or need emergency help with them, My Ph.D Services are exactly the people to call! Their family will take care of yours. It all starts with a phone call. At Responsible contractors, we aim to bring you the best in each industry. We proudly recommend My Ph.D Services for your plumbing, heating and drain cleaning needs.

Preparing for Rain: Mudrooms

The rain is returning, and the dirt is going to turn to mud. While we love fall, the crisp cool air, and the green and orange landscapes, we don’t want the rain and mud in our house. As you trade your sandals for boots, and your t-shirts for large coats, it will become more of a challenge to keep the outside from coming inside. If your home has a mudroom, it’s time to get it up to date! If it doesn’t, we can help you create something similar in your entryway. 

What is a mudroom? It is a designated space at the entrance to your home, designed to keep your muddy boots and wet coats properly stored when you come in. Some homes come with a mudroom already built in, making it much simpler to outfit the space. If your home doesn’t have a mudroom though, there are ways to mimic the effects.

If you’re getting your mudroom up to date for the season, here’s a few elements to have on your checklist. The first step is to clean it out. Once it’s clean, you can check the quality of the floor and furniture finish. Do you have scratched hardwood? Grout that is cracking? Your floor is met with lots of traffic, and will sustain damage over the fall and winter if it isn’t properly protected. The same rule applies to your furniture. If you have wooden furniture, how is the seal? Water damages wood, so it’s important to keep your furniture sealed and protected from the moisture and mud that will be chaperoned inside. Additional elements to consider adding are matts to wipe your boots on, coat racks that are high enough for long coats, and a laundry basket for dirty outerwear that needs to be sent to the wash. These essentials will help you quickly make your mudroom a functional, weather-proof entry!

If your home does not have a separate mudroom in the floor plan, you can still apply the same principles to your front entry to make your home fall-ready! Your floor should be ready for the dirt, mud and water that will trample it. Most homes have a hard floor at the entry such as tile, vinyl or wood. A simple trick is to have a water-resistant matt placed by the front door. If your entry has a closet that doesn’t allow room for air to dry your coats and scarves, consider a coat rack as a quick addition. This will give them a place to dry before being put back in the closet for storage. Another way to mimic a mudroom is to have a bench with storage by the door. Storage will allow a place to store gloves, hats, and miscellaneous items that are best kept by the door. And a place to sit and take off boots and outerwear will not only be more comfortable for everyone, but will discourage incomers from wearing their shoes inside. Also, a laundry basket by the door will prove a quick, effective addition!

Preparing your mudroom or entryway for the cold weather is a quick, yet effective step towards a fall and winter ready home! If in the process, you find any damage to your floor, door, or windows, don’t hesitate to get it fixed. Contact a contractor to take care of it before the winter hits. To see contractors we recommend, visit us atresponsiblecontractors.com!

Spotlight on: Mountain View Pumps

If there is one universal thing we humans rely on, it’s water. Those of us living in the Northwest are spoiled for abundance. We turn on the sink, and ready to drink water flows at our disposal! At least, it should. Sometimes, that refreshing glass of water has a distorted flavor. You may at times notice a slight color. Sometimes the problem is with the pressure, or the water won’t come out at all. There are a lot of reasons that your water may stop performing as it is meant to. Thankfully, you don’t have to be a water expert to restore it. That’s what Mountain View Pumps does!

Established 20 years ago, originally as “Helen’s Pumps and Filters,” Mountain View Pumps and Filtration is owned and operated by Marlene and Kenny Smith. They run their company on the understanding of the importance of clean, healthy drinking water. The goal? To provide their customers with water solutions that are both functional and economical. We all share this world, and we all rely on it for water. Giving families practical, economical means to healthy drinking water is invaluable.

Mountain View Pumps is an established leader in the pump and water filtration industry. From water analysis, to system maintenance and repair, to the installation of new purification systems, they can handle every home’s needs! When you begin to notice a problem with your water, often times the first step is an analysis. Mountain View Pumps uses a state certified lab to test your water for minerals and anything that may be polluting it. From there, they can give you a solution to restore your water.

In the northwest, we are known for lots of land. Many of us live on properties that rely on their own wells as a source of water. As a local company, this is their specialty! Mountain View Pumps are experts in wells and private water systems. Building a new home? Need to update your well? They are exactly the people to call!

When it comes to the water you drink, compromise is never a good option. Fortunately, you have trusted experts in your community who can make sure you won’t have to! At Responsible Contractors, we aim to bring you the best in each industry. We are proud to recommend Mountain View Pumps for your water filtration needs! To read more about them and see other contractors we recommend, visit us online at responsiblecontractors.com.

Attacking the Attic

Does your home have an attic? When’s the last time you crawled in? Has it been a while since it’s been inspected? This may be the right time to give it some long-neglected attention. On your checklist of improvements to make before the weather changes should be a trip to the attic. It’s true that for many it is easier to ignore, but proper inspection of the attic will help prepare your home for the winter. The best part? It doesn’t take long!

If you have just had your roof replaced by a reliable contractor, your attic is probably in better shape. If it’s been a while since your roof received maintenance, your attic will give you the first signs of its condition. Leaking and excessive moisture coming in the attic is one of your roof’s way of begging to be replaced. This is one reason a regular trip up to the attic is recommended. When doing an inspection, in addition to any obvious signs of damage such as leaking, you will check for: ventilation and pathways, rotted sheathing, insulation condition, mold, and cracks. Let’s dig into these a little deeper.

All attics should have some sort of ventilation built into them. Proper airflow is important to prevent the buildup of excess moisture, which can lead to mold, mildew, and rot. Locate your vents, and make sure there is nothing blocking them on either side. Boxes should not be covering them. Small animals have also been known to build nests in or near vents. If you can, check the outside of the vents as well for leaves, or other debris, that may have built up. Clear pathways for the air to flow are important to prevent moisture from settling in the attic.

Next, you’ll want to check your wood and sheathing. Rot is most commonly found near chimneys, windows, and roof vents. If you’ve had any water leakage, there will likely be rotted sheathing nearby. Look over the frame as well. It’s normal to hear creaking, but if you see cracking and bowing, or feel unstable, you may need to reinforce the frame.

While inspecting your frame, take a look at the insulation. Because heat rises, your attic has the potential to let much of your home’s warm air escape. If you see any gaps, or visible signs of damage, have it repaired right away. During the winter, you want your home to stay heated without destroying your utility budget.

Finally, at least once a year you should perform a detailed inspection for mold. One of your first signs of mold will be a change in the air quality. Mold can create a foul odor in the air, as well as irritate a person’s senses. It is common to experience allergy-like symptoms when breathing near mold. If you are sneezing, noticing your nose and eyes are feeling irritated, look around. Sneezing may just be from the dust, but it can also be a sign of mold. Notice the air quality as well. If the air is moist, there is a higher chance of mold growth. Finally, look for visible signs of it. Because mold can sometimes be hard to recognize, it’s recommended to look around with proper lighting. Often times, mold will fall in corners, and resemble patches of dust. If you notice even a small amount of growth, there is a likelihood of a larger mold colony growing out of sight. Mold should never be ignored, as it has the potential to impact your family’s health, and can even be toxic.

While the attic may not be a favorite area of the home, it needs your care and maintenance too. If you do find damage that needs to be repaired, don’t hesitate to call a professional. You’ll appreciate having it fixed before the cold weather sets in. To find a professional who can help, visit us online at www.responsiblecontractors.com.

Spotlight on: Awnings by Design

We know how you feel. As much as you love the sunshine, sometimes you just need a little shade or protection from the weather. We have the perfect solution to enjoy the sun, or any kind of weather, on your terms. Awnings By Design can provide that solution!

From solar shades for your windows, to retractable, motorized awnings, Awnings By Design offers a custom solution to give you complete control of where, and how the weather effects your home and yard. Getting a little too hot for your taste? No problem. Want a little shade while you enjoy the sunlit yard? Absolutely! And it can be an aesthetic design addition as well!

Family owned and operated, Awnings By Design brings the personal touch and best customer experience to your doorstep. Awnings can come in a wide variety of designs and solutions. Many of us, when we hear the word awning, think of a large canopy over our deck. Today’s market offers many more options than that! You have a wide variety choices:  Retractable or fixed, window or roof-mounted, canvas or aluminum, flat or rounded, and more! 

But what about the rest of the year? We Washingtonians enjoy our few months of sun, but are no stranger to the wet, cold seasons. As a local company, Awnings By Design caters to year-round solutions. Awnings are mildew-resistant, and can be motorize to self-store. This keeps them from being damaged in the cold season, so that the next summer around they are ready to face the sun again!

Those looking for a more permanent solution also have options. Awnings By Design builds patio covers, which will protect you from the sun during the summer, and the rain during the winter. If you have an outdoor space that you’d like to use all year round, patio covers are a great solution. Your outdoor space never needs to go unused.

Awnings By Design help you beat the weather by creating the right solution for your home and lifestyle. Whatever your goal for your outdoor space is, they can make it a reality. You live in your home; why not enjoy all it has to offer, even when the weather is telling you otherwise?

At Responsible Contractors, we aim to bring you the best in each industry. To view Awnings By Design, and other contractors we recommend, visit us athttp://www.responsiblecontractors.com.

Before Summer Ends: Carpet Cleaning

The weather is beginning to change on us, as we have just hit September! Those long, summer days are coming to an end, and it’s time to prepare your home for the colder seasons. Because the majority of homes are carpeted, at least in part, carpet cleaning should be on most bucket lists of improvements to be made before the dry days are gone.

Your carpet is one of the dirtiest places in your home. It’s the victim of spilling, trampling, dust and dirt settling, and more. Regular vacuuming is usually a good practice, however with all that your carpet endures, having it professionally cleaned once a year will keep it looking, feeling, and smelling clean! This is especially beneficial for homes with children who like to stretch out on the soft floor. Needing to have your carpet cleaned? Here’s what you should know!

While it’s possible to clean your own carpets with a carpet cleaning vacuum, there are reasons you should consider having a professional handle your annual cleaning project. There are two widely used methods of carpet cleaning: Steam cleaning, and hot carbonation, or dry chemical techniques. Most carpet cleaners you can purchase steam clean. Steam cleaning is a great method when done right. When using an inferior product, however, it can leave soap behind which will attract more dirt, and take longer to dry, which can lead to mildew. Done by a professional with the right equipment, steam cleaning will kill bacteria, extract dirt, and should dry within a ten hour period.

The other method professionals use is hot carbonation, or dry chemical cleaning. The benefit of dry cleaning is that there is a smaller chance for leftover moisture, which can lead to mildew, and mold spores. While dry cleaning does require some water, it is a significantly smaller amount. This, when carbonated, creates effervescent bubbles which suck the dirt from the carpet to be vacuumed away.

So which cleaning method is right for your home? Both methods may work well. When choosing between steam cleaning and hot carbonation, you’ll want to consider first your carpet. If you know who manufactured it, check the manufacturer’s recommendations. Not all carpets are created equal! Also, if anyone in your home has high sensitivity, the hot carbonation may be a more gentle option, as it doesn’t require the chemicals steam cleaning uses. For someone looking for a more thorough cleanliness, the chemical power of steam cleaning might be a great option. Lastly, consider your environment. If you live in a dry climate, steam cleaning will likely pose little to no threat, as the carpet will have a chance to dry completely. If you are concerned about humidity, hot carbonation may be a safer option to prevent mold from growing after the cleaning.

When caring for your home, we know you deserve the best. Whether cleaning your carpet, installing new flooring, or updating other areas of the home, it’s important to have the help of an expert you can trust. To see contractors we recommend, visit us online atresponsiblecontractors.com!

Spotlight on: Kanon Electric, Inc

When it comes to electrical work, many of us are in the dark. We know how to plug in our appliances and get our tv’s up and running, but rewiring and reworking? The internet is flooded with information: video tutorials, DIY instructions, all providing a thousand solutions for each problem. With respect to electrical, we recommend always hiring a professional. Electrical work can be dangerous for the untrained, and has to be performed up to codes in which most homeowners are not well versed.

Thankfully, we can recommend you to those who do have the training, skills and expertise needed! When it comes to setting the standard, Kanon Electric is at the top! Whether you’re in need of basic repairs, rewiring and installation, or need an electrical contractor for a new project, you will be in good hands with Kanon. Located in Milton, WA, they are local to the Pacific Northwest, and a great presence in the community! They bring friendly service, honest advice, and quality work.

When you find an outlet or light has gone out, resist the impulse to start exploring! Proper precautions need to be taken for safety, and fire prevention. This is why it’s important to call a licensed professional such as Kanon Electric! Any repair or install that entails wiring can cause extensive damage if not done right. With Kanon Electric, you can have confidence that they have the knowledge, skill, and experience to get the job right. Additionally, they go above and beyond to make your home work more efficiently!

Whether you need repairs done, want to rewire for an upgrade, or added efficiency, or install new outlets, fans, or others, Kanon Electric has you covered! With electrical work, we know a reliable contractor is essential. We are proud to recommend Kanon Electric for all your electrical needs! To see them and more contractors we recommend, visit us online at www.responsiblecontractors.com!

Home Safety: An Overview

One of the most important conversations we may ever have is in regards to your home’s safety. When it comes to accidents and hazards, everyone knows they exist, but most don’t believe it can happen to them: until it does. These days, homes are built according to regulations to maximize safety across the board. As a homeowner, it is still your responsibility to make sure your home lives up to these standards on a consistent basis. Do you know what to look for? Here’s an overview.

When it comes to a safe home, there are a few target areas to keep tabs on. All of them should be inspected annually, at a minimum. We will look at: Electrical, heating and fire safety, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and protection from burglary.

Most of us aren’t electricians, and for a good reason. Electrical work can be very dangerous for someone who is not properly trained. While nearly everyone uses electricity on a daily basis, there are important safety guidelines you should be following. The first is to make sure you are not overloading your system. There is a maximum voltage that outlets are designed to maintain. A rule of thumb is to only have one high-wattage appliance in use per outlet. While you can use multiple smaller items such as lamps and alarm clocks, some appliances require a significant amount of energy. Additionally, at least once per year every outlet should be checked. Feel the surface of every outlet to check for warmth. If you feel heat coming form an outlet, it needs to be checked by an electrician. When using outlets, cords needs to be properly attended. Frayed, exposed, or loose wires on any electrical device can be hazardous. Cords also need a clear path to travel along, and should never be allowed to hide underneath rugs, or run through doors where they can be trampled. Electrical safety is extremely important. It can turn into a hazard to young children and pets, or a fire hazard.

In addition to electrical safety, your home heating system can become a fire hazard if ignored. The first step as a homeowner is to have your fireplace, chimney, and heating equipment inspected once a year by a professional. As the weather is beginning to change and the cold season is not far off, this is the time to have them checked. When it comes time to heat your home, whether you are using built-in heating, a space heater, or fireplace, always use caution and best safety practices. This includes never leaving anything to burn or heat while unattended, never allowing anything that can burn near a heating device, and only burning proper wood. All outside vents should be checked annually and after any snowstorm for obstructions that may lead to carbon monoxide buildup. Finally, water heaters need to be checked and never allowed to exceed 120 degrees.

Even with safe heating practices, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors should be checked regularly. Smoke alarms should be tested regularly and batteries changed yearly. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer that is odorless, and can only be detected by a carbon monoxide detector. If you do not have one in your home already, go to your local hardware store and purchase one. A small amount of money can potentially save your family from a deadly leak. Every home should have at least one fire extinguisher in it as well. Extinguishers come with schedules and instructions from the manufacturer, which should be followed to ensure it’s ready when you need it.

Another safety target for your home is protection against burglary. It is important to have a reliable security system installed in your home. In addition to this, there are other practical steps you can take. First, consider having a neighbor or friend that you trust have a house key rather than hiding one near your door. Thieves who intend to break in may already know where you hide a key, if you have one. It’s also important to know what you have on display. Your home’s address should be easily identifiable in case police or firemen ever need to arrive. Your name, however, should not. Have your house numbers on your home and on your mailbox, not your last name. If for some reason you cannot have a home security system installed, consider putting a sticker on your window anyway. Burglars may be deterred if they believe an alarm will sound upon entry. Finally, always have your home appear occupied. If you are not home, leave a light or radio on.

While this is not a complete or all-inclusive list, and accidents can happen no matter what your level of preparedness is, you can still take steps to increase your home’s safety. Some steps you can take on your own, for others it’s wise to call in a professional. If any of these need to be done, don’t hesitate to call! To find a professional for your home, visit us online at www.responsiblecontractors.com!

Spotlight on: Jeff Heiss Painting

“Life is short. Live it in color.” Your house is your sanctuary. Your office is your brand’s dwelling. It’s a place you spend most of your days, and a place that represents you when guests come for dinner, or clients come for a visit. An appealing design is important not only for your eyes’ pleasure, but for the impression it makes. Have you been staring at white walls? Or maybe you have leftover wallpaper that seemed like a great idea a decade ago? It might be time to call Jeff Heiss Painting.

The conviction of Jeff Heiss Painting is to have a courtesy that is often forgotten. This is a conviction that permeates everything they do! From the best customer service, to a quality job that reflects that same commitment to their fellow man, Jeff Heiss Painting is a confident choice for any paint job. Experts in interior painting, they offer straight lines and an even coat of paint!  But if you’re looking to have the exterior of your home painted, they can do that too and prep it right.

When should you call them, though? Don’t most people just waltz into their local home store and pickup paint themselves? The edge that Jeff Heiss Painting brings is that they will not only do a job of the highest quality, but they are your consultants to help you choose the perfect color and paint style for your job! They take into account the purpose, location, lighting, carpet, trim and window treatments, and longevity of each job. Why do you want to repaint? What will the room be used for? What factors might influence the color choice, and the paint choice? These are all questions that Jeff Heiss Painting is prepared to ask before jumping into a paint job prematurely!

Are you ready for an update, but not sure where to start? Do you know you need your space painted but don’t want the hassle, or just need inspiration to start? Jeff Heiss Painting gives free estimates, are will be willing to work with you to make sure you have the results you want, along your timeline!

At Responsible Contractors, we aim to bring you the best in each industry. We proudly recommend Jeff Heiss Painting to take care of all your paint needs, indoor, outdoor, residential and commercial! To read more about them and find other contractors we recommend, visit us at www.responsiblecontractors.com!

When Weeds Attack

Seasoned gardeners are accustomed to dealing with those pesky weeds. Unmerciful and relentless, they persistently try to make an appearance. But not every homeowner is a gardener, and not everyone is prepared to handle them. Some may consider them harmless. But when they start appearing in your sidewalks, in your children’s playground, or your pet’s roaming areas, they might become bothersome. How can you manage your weeds when you don’t have a green thumb? Here’s some tips.

When it comes to weed control, there are as many options as there are types of weeds. First, it’s important to know what your culprit might be. There are three main classifications of weeds: Broadleaf, Grassy, and Grass-like. Here in the Pacific Northwest, broadleaf is likely to appear frequently. These include dandelions, false dandelions, and even some varieties of clovers and ivies. While it would be nearly impossible to list every variety of weed we have here in the Northwest, a good rule to follow is this: If a plant showed up without help, somewhere it isn’t wanted or suppose to be, treat it as a weed.

But how do you control these unwelcome guests? One of the most effective strategies for discouraging them from popping up is to promote growth of the plants you want. A lawn that is maintained, on soil that is healthy, will be a more difficult target for weeds. On the contrary, a lawn that has been let go may turn into a haven for weeds. A lawn that is dehydrated, has not been properly fertilized, has insect damage, or excessive traffic that has compacted the soil, can become a compromised area.

In addition to keeping your lawn healthy, there are many herbicides that you can use for an extra line of defense. If you go to your local home and garden store to pick some up, however, you may find there are many to choose from! Herbicides come in many varieties, and are intended to treat certain types of weed problems.

The first important thing to look for is whether your herbicide is selective or nonselective. Nonselective herbicides must be used with caution, as they are designed to kill all plants in their path. Whereas selective herbicides will only kill certain plants. If you are treating your lawn, make sure you use a selective herbicide so that you will not kill your grass also! If you are treating a sidewalk where plants like to grow between the cracks, a nonselective herbicide might be just the key, as you don’t want anything coming through the concrete!

The other important options you have are pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides. Pre-emergent herbicides establish a barrier that will leave existing plants unharmed, but prevents weeds from growing. This will generally last six to eight weeks, and therefore may need to be applied throughout the year. Pre-emergent herbicides are a great option for protecting an already healthy lawn! Post-emergent herbicides come to the rescue when damage has already been done. They are designed to attack weeds that have already begun to grow, but before they have started seeding. This works to kill the weeds without letting them reproduce, making it a good option to handle a lawn that has already been invaded.

When it comes to weed control, the simple rules to follow are: Keep a healthy landscape, and treat it when needed. A good landscaper can prepare your soil for an environment that will encourage weeds to move next door. If your yard has been under fire for a long time, it might be time to call in a professional landscaper to give it a facelift! Not only will it be healthier, but it will look better, too. At Responsible Contractors, we aim to bring you the best in each industry. To find a landscaper, or a contractor for any other home issues you may have, visit us online at www.responsiblecontractors.com!

Spotlight on: Evergreen Landscaping & Ponds

We Washingtonians appreciate the nice weather more than most. With several months of rain each year, the time that we have to enjoy the outdoors is precious. We take our children to the park, and embark on day trips along scenic routes to enjoy nature. What if you could bring that beautiful scenery to your own home? Good news: you can! Evergreen Landscaping & Ponds’ tagline says it all: “We create Beautiful Landscapes to Enrich your Life!”

As a full service landscaper, they are equipped to bring your paradise oasis to life, whatever it may look like! From basic landscaping, to ponds, waterfalls, hardscapes, rockeries, and even sprinkler systems, the options are seemingly endless. Fully licensed, bonded, and insured, they have the skills and expertise of a contractor, and the creativity of a designer!

Their carefully selected team of landscapers bring over thirty-two years of combined experience. Honest, hard-working, and respectful, their disclaimer is that you may find yourself relaxing to the soothing sound of babbling water when done! Customers Mike & Sharon from Olympia remarked: “Highly recommend! Love my new pondless water feature, walkways, pavers, sprinklers and outdoor lighting. They can do anything when it comes to landscaping. They do excellent work, are honest and trustworthy.”

More than simple landscapers, the crew at Evergreen Landscaping & Ponds are master gardeners! They can bring your natural habitat to life whether in-ground or in-water. Some of the most coveted landscaping features are waterscapes. Evergreen Landscaping & Ponds believes that a properly installed water garden should be self-supporting with a naturally maintained ecosystem. This truly brings the most natural touch to your home or property, with the least amount of required maintenance.

Your home, or place of business, is a place where you spend a significant amount of your life. When entrusting the design, ecosystem, and structure of this oasis to another, choosing a company you can rely upon is crucial. Evergreen Landscaping & Ponds fits the bill. They have the experience, they have the skill, they have the reputation, and on top of it all they warranty their work.

At Responsible Contractors, we aim to bring you the best in each industry. We highly recommend Evergreen Landscaping & Ponds to take care of your commercial or residential landscape. In their hands, your corner of paradise will come to life! To read more about them, and find other contractors we recommend, visit us online atwww.responsiblecontractors.com.

Should I Fix or Replace my Driveway?

Summer is the ideal time to take care of your driveway. The dry weather allows you to replace it without interference from the rain. But does it really need to be replaced? It is normal to notice cracks. The constant traffic and weathering cycles will cause damage in time. Maybe you’ve discovered little plants breaking through, or maybe you just have a few small fissures. The size and type of cracks you have will tell you what your driveway needs. As we are entering August, this is the time to take care of it!

If your driveway is in good shape, with only small cracks or divots, it can be repaired in a day. These repairs will extend the life of your driveway for up to a few years, making them a temporary but cost and time effective solution for driveways with only minor damage. The product you need for repair depends on the type of driveway you have. The two most commonly found driveways: asphalt and cement, can be repaired using fillers purchased from your local hardware store. Ask a store associate to direct you to the correct liquid filler. If comfortable doing this yourself, you can complete the task in a day. If this is out of your skill set, contact a professional to do the job for you. Hint: We can connect you!

If you find cracks larger than a quarter-inch in width, or a several inches in depth, you have larger problems. These large cracks are a sign that there are issues going on under the surface. If your driveway is more than twenty years old, you can be sure it’s time to replace. While you may be able to get away with patching it for a short time, problems will resurface quickly if the damage is more significant. Your time and money is better spent on a more permanent solution.

Driveways have a foundation, and many contractors are able to take off the top layer and resurface the driveway. This is a great substitute for a replacement that will get the job done in a more cost-effective manner. As long as there are no issues with the foundation itself, it is generally recommended to resurface. This should only be done by a professional. If you discover issues with the foundation, the whole driveway may need to be replaced.

But, why bother with any of this? What’s the problem with cracks in my driveway? Unless your driveway is in poor condition, or you’re about to sell your home, a new driveway isn’t known to add monetary value. The benefits of a driveway in proper condition do, however, extend beyond aesthetics. Cracks can pose a danger overtime. If not taken care of promptly, they can turn into a liability, as you, your family, and guests may easily trip. And while a good driveway may not increase your property value, a driveway in poor condition is a detractor for those looking to buy. Even if you aren’t selling your home, doesn’t it still deserve the best and safest?

At Responsible Contractors, we are here to connect you with the best contractors for your home. If you need someone to take care of your driveway repair, contact us for a recommendation, or see a list of companies we endorse atwww.responsiblecontractors.com!

Speaking of Windows

It’s no secret that windows play an important role in your home. They protect against the weather, they guard against intruders big and small, they play a crucial role in your home’s energy usage, temperature, and air quality, and they perform all these important activities while making your home look bright and clean. Windows are important. Here’s what you, as the homeowner, can do to care for them.

There are different types of windows, from vinyl to aluminum, single pane to double pane, screened to unscreened. Because of this, we recommend asking your installer for pertinent information you need to know that may be specific to your window needs. In addition to that, here are some universal tips.

If your window is adjacent to the floor, has a sliding door or runs along a track of any kind, regular vacuuming along its base is encouraged. Dust, debris, and even soil can settle there. Before washing your windows, make sure it’s vacuumed. Once vacuumed, most newer window and door frames can be cleaned with a mixture of dish soap and lukewarm water. Note that older, solid wood frames can potentially take water damage and should be cleaned with a wood-safe product. If you are unsure, check with your manufacturer. Always avoid abrasive or caustic soaps, cleaners and solvents. You don’t want to damage your windows’ finish!

When cleaning your outdoor windows, high-pressure water hoses are unfortunately a much too common cleaning method. Avoid the temptation, even for the high, hard-to-reach windows. Hard pressure, abrasion, and chemicals will take a toll on your windows over time.

Indoor screens are even more fragile than your windows. The same careful practice of gentle cleaning should apply. A mild dish soap, water, and a soft brush are ideal to keep your screen clean without pulling, snagging or tearing!

A good step for windows that open and close is to make sure the hardware is functioning well. Annual lubrication is recommended. We all know the feeling of prying open, or attempting to pry open, a window that hasn’t been touched in a while and has become stuck, dirty, and hard to move or clean. Keeping your hardware in good shape will help prevent this. Included in this, it’s a good practice to keep an eye on your weatherstripping. Poor weatherstripping will create problems with the seal and lead to more repair needs down the line.

There are other repair and upkeep steps that can be taken, and some of them should be handled by a professional. Throughout the year, watch for condensation. Condensation is a sign of interior humidity, and could potentially be telling you that your windows aren’t performing well. During the rainy season, watch the drainage. If you have have water buildup along your window sill, it’s time to call in a window specialist.

We know you love looking out your window in the morning, watching the kids play in the backyard, opening the curtains to let the sunlight in, and opening your windows to let in a breeze in the summer weather. For all that your windows provide for your home, it’s worth the time and effort to keep them performing well. If your windows are outdated, permanently fogged, stuck closed, or damaged, we can show you who to call to get new ones that will perform well. Your home is worth it! To read more about contractors we recommend, visit us online atwww.responsiblecontractors.com/windows_doors_contractor.html!