Tackling Plumbing Fixtures During Bathroom Remodeling

March 5th, 2013

ABC Home and Commercial

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Many Austin homeowners will remodel their bathrooms this year. While there is a wealth of information on the Internet about DIY projects, it is important to remember that not all resources offer good information. Homeowners should limit themselves to cosmetic projects and avoid major plumbing tasks. When it comes to actual plumbing procedures, it is important to contact a professional plumber. There are several good reasons for this.

Some Plumbing Projects May Require Permits

In nearly every city, there are special codes for plumbing projects. For example, Austin has special requirements for water heater placement and toilet water consumption. Violations of local plumbing codes may make it very difficult for homeowners to resell their properties in the future. Most homeowners will be required to hire a professional to fix the problem, which will cost even more money. In some cases, violations may result in fines if they cause damage to city property or a neighbor’s property.

Complex Plumbing Projects are More Difficult Than They Look

When it comes to plumbing, not every person’s house is the same. A person posting a DIY project online may have plumbing experience and may own a home where the pipes are easier to access. However, an inexperienced homeowner reading the guide may have more difficulty reaching pipes. Unforeseen problems may leave frustrated homeowners who were attempting to save money paying more than they would have by initially hiring a professional.

Major Projects Must Pass Inspection to be Considered Legal

In addition to obtaining a permit for a major plumbing project, a homeowner must have an inspector approve the completed project while the pipes are still exposed. Passing this inspection can be more difficult than most people anticipate. If problems are found, homeowners can expect to pay more to fix them.

Homeowners may be able to fix leaky faucets or use a drain cleaner for minor clogs. However, any major project that involves working with pipes should always be left to a professional. When this time comes, contact us at ABC Home & Commercial Services for reliable and fast service. Our Austin plumbing specialists have been in the business for years and they know what it takes to complete a project correctly.

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Garbage Disposal Maintenance: Do’s and Don’ts

December 17th, 2012

ABC Home and Commercial

Garbage disposals can simplify life by reducing overall household waste. However, if they are not properly maintained, garbage disposals can easily malfunction, leading to drain blockages as well as a host of other plumbing nightmares.

Results of improperly maintained garbage disposals include clogged pipes, damaged wires and loose blades. Installing and repairing a garbage disposal is not the best choice for a DIY project as many things can, and often do, go wrong. The experts at ABC Home & Commercial Services, your San Antonio plumbing specialists, can solve all of your drain dilemmas.

By following these simple steps, you can prolong the life of your garbage disposal and save hundreds of dollars on replacement costs.

Do’s of Disposal Maintenance:

Keep your disposal clean by flushing it out with a small amount of dish soap and cold running water after you wash dishes.
Every week, fill the disposal with ice cubes and run cold water for about 30 seconds to loosen debris.
Once a month, pour two tablespoons of baking soda and half a cup of white vinegar down the disposal to disinfect and degrease it.
Run the disposal regularly to prevent rust and corrosion.
Always run cold water down the disposal.
Cut large food items into small pieces, and place them in the disposal one at a time to prevent clogging.
Place citrus peels in the disposal to keep your disposal smelling fresh.

Don’ts of Disposal Maintenance:

Don’t put anything down the disposal that is not biodegradable food—this includes paper, glass, plastic, or metal.
Don’t pour grease, fat, or oil down the drain. Instead, use a can to contain it, and throw it in the trash once it has cooled.
Don’t use hot water when grinding food. Hot water causes grease to liquefy and clog the drain.
Don’t grind fibrous foods, such as cornhusks, celery stalks, lettuce or onion peels.
For safety, never stick your hand down into the disposal. If something falls in, try using an extra long pair of needle-nosed pliers to retrieve it.

Follow these suggestions to keep your garbage disposal running efficiently and to avoid unnecessary visits from your San Antonio plumber.

Beware Counterfeit Christmas Lights!

December 10th, 2012

ABC Home and Commercial

As the holiday season approaches, many Texans will buy new Christmas lights. Sadly, there are a number of serious risks associated with purchasing and installing these decorations. Counterfeit holiday lighting products can cause fires and electrical shocks. Faulty power cords and slippery roofs add to the danger.

Dangerous Lights

Counterfeit Christmas lights usually have poorly manufactured wiring. Although the lights may function properly, the wires can overheat, melt or catch fire at any time. It is often difficult for shoppers to identify counterfeit Christmas lights. Fraudulent brand names, certifications and seals of approval appear on many of the packages.

A variety of retailers sell counterfeit Christmas lights. Some store owners aren’t aware that counterfeiters produce the lights. Such items remain common at discount shops, flea markets and online auctions. Occasionally, they also turn up at yard sales and thrift shops. Some vendors sell them on the street.

Non-counterfeit Christmas lights can also be dangerous. CNN reported in 2006 that over 2.3 million light sets were recalled due to safety hazards. A similar recall was announced in July 2012 involving 280,000 items. Additionally, many lights are only designed for indoor use. Some people accidentally use them outdoors.

Hazardous Cords

Shoddy power strips and extension cords also increase the risk of fire. A poorly made extension cord may not be able to safely deliver the electrical power needed to run multiple sets of lights. Many power cords lack brand names or retail packaging, so it can be difficult to identify the manufacturer.

Additional Dangers

People also suffer injuries in the process of installing and removing outdoor lighting by falling off ladders or roofs. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that Christmas decorating injuries sent over 13,000 Americans to the emergency room in 2010. This often ruins the happiness of the holiday season.

ABC Home & Commercial Services offers a safer alternative to outdoor lighting in Austin. We put up Christmas lights for home and business owners in Austin. ABC uses high-quality lights and power cords from reputable sources. Our well-trained specialists take precautions to prevent injuries and damage. We also offer Austin home improvement and landscaping services to improve your overall curb appeal that will complement your holiday outdoor lighting.

Holiday Light Safety is as Simple as ABC

December 3rd, 2012

ABC Home and Commercial

house Holiday Light Safety is as Simple as ABC pic The holidays are a time for family and friends to gather and celebrate life, love, and tradition. So why challenge the holiday spirit with moments of sadness and concern? Something as wonderful as a family working together to install holiday lights can end badly. Be it electrical shock, falling off ladders, or fires caused from improper installation and circuitry management, something beautiful and exciting has the potential to be hazardous and life threatening.

Step ladders and extension ladders may seem safe, but unsure footing can lead to injury. Those with even a slight fear of heights may find that nervousness makes it even more difficult to keep their balance. But it isn’t just the fear that leads to accidents. Sometimes some of the most secure people forget to take precaution and fall just the same. Weather conditions combined with improper footwear can cause you to slip. The installation of lights often requires a person to reach out, and ladders were not designed for an unequal distribution of weight. Reaching out can cause a ladder to topple over.

The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) estimates there are approximately 150 house fires every year caused by holiday electrical fires. Improper installation or overloading of a circuit can have life altering effects. The overloading of extension cords or simply not understanding line voltage can lead to such fires. What might seem to be a simple task could turn out to be your biggest regret.

Let your ABC specialist in San Antonio take care of your Christmas light needs. With our extensive experience and the use of proper precautions, you can have the most festive looking home in the neighborhood. ABC always puts safety first. We use weather-safe outdoor timers and will decorate your trees, shrubs, mailbox and driveway all based on your design wishes. ABC offers a free quote for services—we not only handle Christmas light installation for your San Antonio home, but we also take care of the removal as well. If you are looking for that special touch for the whole neighborhood to enjoy, let ABC help you illuminate the holiday spirit.

Empty Nesters: Now is the Time to Think About Remodeling!

November 29th, 2012

ABC Home and Commercial

The kids are off to college and the house is starting to feel empty. With the kids gone and a house that belongs to the adults again, now is the time to start on an Austin remodeling project that will make the vision you have for your home become reality.

Transforming an Empty Bedroom

If your kids aren’t planning on spending any long periods of time at home after leaving for college, you’re probably wondering what to do with their empty bedrooms. Many couples have visions of dens, libraries or a personal home gym. The best option may be to combine one of these ideas with a guest bedroom that welcomes family and friends to visit overnight.

Be sure to integrate the design so that you can use the room for personal purposes and maintain its functionality as a private space for guests. For a guest bedroom design, ABC Home & Commercial Services can help with any changes you’d like to make to your closets, paint color, flooring, windows, doors and lighting fixtures. Our specialists can give your room(s) a much-needed facelift.

Gaining an Extra Bathroom

If you had a bathroom just for the kids prior to their move, it’s likely that you weren’t overly concerned about the design elements of the bathroom. Now, you could possibly be left with a bathroom that’s functional but dated. Take the time to invest in a home improvement project that can make your extra bathroom a relaxing oasis. Have you thought about adding a Jacuzzi tub in your home? How about something as simple as a double vanity? Now may be a great time for an Austin remodeling specialists to get started on the bathroom of your dreams.

Creating an Open Floor Plan

Having a full house doesn’t lend itself to a construction project that requires knocking down walls and opening up the floor plan of common living areas. Now that the kids are out of the house, you have the opportunity to pursue construction projects that transform your common living area into one large, flowing space.

If you’re ready to hire a professional who can offer contracting services for home improvement in the Austin area, consider ABC Home & Commercial Services for your Austin remodeling needs.

Austin Home Remodeling and Improvement

January 17th, 2012

ABC Home and Commercial

Homeowners considering Austin home remodeling normally fall into two categories, those who want to increase the value of their home for resell and those who want home remodeling and plan to continue living in the home. There are ways to achieve both goals. You can enjoy the benefits of an updated kitchen and bathrooms, added living space and greater curb appeal for your Austin home and still get a good return on your remodel investment when you sell your home.

Some remodeling projects offer a greater return on your money than others. Of course this will depend on the vitality of the housing market when you decide to sell. If you are primarily interested in getting return on your money there are some things you can do that will give you the best return.

Types of Remodeling Projects That Can Make You Money

A recent report in Remodeling magazine lists the top 10 remodeling projects for increasing resale value in a home:

Replace siding – fiber cement
Replace siding – vinyl
Window replacement –wood, mid range
Kitchen remodel – minor
Bathroom remodel
Window replacement – vinyl high end
Window replacement – vinyl , mid range
Addition of second story
Siding replacement – insulated vinyl
Window replacement – wood, high end

This is an average for all of the U.S. This doesn’t mean that this list will be applicable for Austin. There are some areas of the country that show a better return on different types of remodeling projects. Your neighborhood and the location of your home will also make a big difference in what things will work for you and what won’t. If you are planning to sell your home we recommend you have a reputable professional real estate agent who is familiar with your area take a look at your home and make recommendations. They will usually know what buyers are looking for and they can give your home a fresh look with a new set of eyes.

If you are not planning on selling your home any time soon, you should plan your remodeling project around your specific wants and needs. Just be aware that a well thought out home remodeling plan with a detailed budget is critical in determining if the project will be a successful and enjoyable experience or something more similar to a disaster.

Find an Austin Remodeling Contractor

A reputable Austin remodeling contractor can be a big help with this upfront planning. They know which facets of remodeling, such as electrical rewiring and plumbing cost the most money. In many cases a good contractor will be able to show you ways to the home remodeling you want without cutting corners or overextending your budget.

Most contractors will want to have an on-site inspection to review any plans and ideas you have before they provide an estimate for their services. Careful shopping for big-ticket items like kitchen appliances, lighting and bath fixtures can save you as much as 20% or more of your total budget. The more time you take shopping and planning for your remodel the more money you can save. You may want to do some of the work yourself depending on your skill level. If you are a do-it-yourselfer check with your contractor about doing some of the demolition or tear-down yourself. This doesn’t require a lot of construction skills and can save you a lot of money.

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Prevent Disasters with Proper Garage Door Maintenance

January 12th, 2012

ABC Home and Commercial

Tips for Preventing Garage Door Disasters It may seem strange to be concerned about garage doors and their safety, but an “average of 20,000 people each year have been treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries related to garage doors.” … Continued

A Beginners Check List to San Antonio Home Additions

January 8th, 2012

ABC Home and Commercial

When planning your dream San Antonio home additions, there are so many things to keep organized. Having a game plan, and knowing what you’re getting into can save you not only a lot of time, but potentially a lot of money.

1. Draw Your Dream
Even before you consult an architect, you can begin sketching out your ideas and imagining your remodeled home. If you are adding or expanding a room, think about how the space will be used and how the changes will affect traffic patterns. Also consider how new construction will affect the overall context of your home. An oversized addition may overwhelm your house or crowd a small lot. A simple home design software program can help you visualize your project.

2. Learn From Others
One of the best ways to get inspiration and to avoid pitfalls is to follow the experiences of other homeowners. A number of Web sites offer online chronicles of home improvement projects, along with reply forms, message boards, and chat rooms that let you ask questions and get feedback.

3. Think Ahead
Although you may dream of having a spacious new addition, the project may not make sense if you plan to sell your house in a few years. A luxury bathroom can price your house beyond the values in your neighborhood. Some projects, such as vinyl siding on a Queen Anne Victorian, will actually decrease the value of your home. Moreover, your own family’s needs may be very different in a few years. Will the plans you draw today fit your future?

4. Count Your Money
Even the best-laid budgets can go bust. Chances are, your remodeling project will cost more than you expect. Before you set your heart on high-end ceramic tile, find out how much you have to spend and make sure you have a cushion against cost overruns. For must-have items that could wipe out your savings account, explore home improvement loans and other financing options.

5. Choose your team
Unless you plan to take on the entire remodeling project by yourself, you’ll need to hire helpers. Naturally, you’ll want to make sure that the folks who work for you are qualified, licensed, and properly insured. But, finding the best team for your remodeling project goes beyond a simple reference check. The architect who has won top awards may have a design vision very different from your own. Use these resources to find the professionals you feel comfortable with.

6. Negotiate a Contract
Whether you plan a simple carpentry job or a major project requiring the services of an architect and a general contractor, misunderstandings can lead to disaster. Do not begin remodeling without a written contract. Make sure everyone agrees on the work that will be completed and how long it will take. Also be clear on the types of materials that will — and will not — be used.

7. Get Permission
In most parts of the world, a legal permit is required before you make structural changes to your home. The building permit assures that the remodeling project meets local building codes and safety regulations. If you live in a historic district, the permit also assures that exterior changes to your home are in keeping with neighborhood guidelines. General contractors will usually take care of the paperwork, but smalltime workers may not… and the permits become your responsibility.

8. Plan for Problems
The larger the remodel, the greater the chances for frustrations. There will be equipment breakdowns, supply shortages, miscommunications, and delays. Draw up a few friendly rules for workers. Tell them where they may park their trucks and store their equipment. Plan for ways you can indulge yourself when times become especially stressful. Schedule a day at a spa and reserve a night at a romantic bed and breakfast inn. You deserve it!

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Austin Drain Cleaning for a Clogged or Slow Draining Sink

December 18th, 2011

ABC Home and Commercial

There are few plumbing problems more aggravating than a sluggish drain. Likewise, there are few feelings better than fixing the problem yourself, especially for the not-so-handy Austin homeowner. The following are simple solutions to unclog drains without the purchase of … Continued

Simple Maintenance Tips Prevent Austin Appliance Repair

December 16th, 2011

ABC Home and Commercial

Routine Maintenance can save Austin Homeowners on Appliance Repair

Tips to prevent Austin appliance repair:

Remembering to clean out the lint buildup from the dryer or change the air filters for your central air conditioner is easy to forget, but if left untended, can be hazardous. Unlike a car that will remind you when it needs maintenance, such as the oil change light, your home appliances will not be able to make such requests. Keeping a schedule or calendar to remind yourself to take these periodic maintenance steps can reduce your need for appliance repair in the future.

Things to do Weekly

~ Clean out your lint filter. Clearing out the lint buildup in your dryer can prevent lint from becoming a fire hazard.

~ Clear disposal and trapped food in dishwasher. Sometimes food particles can be too big to drain. Remember to check that there is no food left in your sink disposal or left in the bottom of your dishwasher. This prevents buildup and potential pipe blockage.

Things to do Monthly

~ Check your air filters. Dirty filters can increase energy bills by causing your system to go into overdrive to make up for the filter, which can then damage the ability for your system to work properly.

~ Test smoke alarm and heat alarm systems. Remember to replace the batteries.

~ Refill the salt in your water softener. This prevents sediment from building up in your pipes. Plus, the water softener will improve your water quality and make your clothes softer.

Things to do Annually

~ Check your gas appliances. Improper upkeep of gas appliance could potentially cause Carbon Monoxide poisoning in your home.

~ Check your chimney. Before use each year, check your chimney to prevent buildup of dangerous chemicals. Once you begin to use your chimney more often, cleaning your chimney will also help to prevent issues with Carbon Monoxide as well as the buildup of hazardous chemicals.

Are there any that we missed? What do you check weekly, monthly, or annually?

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