Homes have many things that can either last a long time, or can breakdown only years after purchase or installation. Sometimes with good reason, sometimes because of faulty manufacturing. Alongside the misery of having to replace a roof or a furnace, is the fact that the expense can run you into the tens of thousands of dollars. So how long can you expect the basics in your home to last? Let a knowledgeable and trusted  general contractor  tell you. Roofs : As mentioned in the introduction, roofs are expensive if you need it all replaced. Metal and stone roofs (like copper, slate, and tile) can last 50+ years; wood about 30 years; and asphalt/shingle 25 or so years. It's also important to consider climate when figuring longevity. AC Units : Outdoor cooling units have the worst experience working all day in the heat and sun, especially if they are left to do...

With 2015 just beginning, many people are looking at the new year as a way to start fresh. To begin again. To change the things they have been neglecting about their home into something modern and clean.  If you're interested in keeping up with what is hot and modern in 2015, here's just a few things our  handyman services  can help you achieve, thanks to trusted online real estate database and design gurus  Zillow . Fixture Revamp Gold fixtures are taking over in 2015, says Zillow. With its surprisingly clean and fresh style, in spite of being totally retro, gold fixtures are poised to take your home by storm. Good news for those who no longer feel stuck using silver and stainless steel. Cowhide Design Is it a bit too "country"? Not really say designers at Zillow. The new cowhide design isn't supposed to take a room over and make it Southwestern....

Every year, many homeowners grab the fall bull by the horns, and tackle all of their  home repairs  in one fell swoop. They work hard so that, come winter, any project they may have neglected doesn't turn into an expensive tragedy. Any why not? Many of the projects are simple and not incredibly time-consuming, but are super beneficial to every aspect of their home. Ready to take part in fall home repair? Here are 3 to get your started. Lawn Maintenance The issue:  Fall is called fall for one specific reason: leaves! Which are either beautiful or a nuisance depending on where they reside (attached to the tree or not).  How to handle:  Sure, you can rake them and bag them. A process that is time-consuming and back-breaking. But why not mulch them? Many mowers have a mulching selection (or mulching blades can be installed), a feature that can make the...

For just about any job around the house, you can rely on the  services of a handyman . A handyman, a certified "jack-of"all-trades" can be hired to work for you in completing tasks around the house that you either need help with or simply can not perform yourself. But do you know what to look for when seeking the services of a handyman? Here are some tips to help you along. How to know when you need a handyman.  If a job that you are trying to complete is simply out of your range of skills, a handyman is just what you need. However, not every handyman can perform every job. Some large jobs are best left to contractors. So ask before hand. The benefits of hiring a handyman.  Let's say that you are working very hard on multiple projects around your home. You need a faucet installed, your gutters are...

If you are thinking about selling your home, you know there are things you'll need to do to fix it up to attract potential buyers. But one of the easiest, most affordable things you can do to help you sell your house is a simple coat of fresh paint. Doing all of that  painting & papering  yourself is time-consuming and messy, though, and that's why you need an affordable, professional team for the job.  When potential buyers view your home, they want to be able to imagine their own furnishings in the space. They want to be able to visualize their couch against that wall, their dining room table in this room, and their favorite painting in the entryway. It's harder for a buyer to do that if they are distracted by the paint color. While you might love your "spiced plum" kitchen, they can't get past the purple and it...

When you buy your first home, your dream may have finally come true. But the joy of simply owning a home can quickly become overshadowed by tasks and maintenance that you will need to perform to keep everything running smoothly.  So while the average homeowner knows that a little DIY can go a long way when it comes to  painting and papering , for those who are not so do it yourself-inclined, there are a few things you should familiarize yourself with before you begin. Proper Painting Prep Title alliteration aside, proper preparation when you decide to paint a room is imperative if you want your project's appearance to shine and last. Sprucing up a room with paint is the quickest and easiest way to add your personal touch to your home. But prep work is a must. Succeed by following these simple rules: - Remove fixturing and hardware that may...