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Hot Wire MishapsFive Things to Do BEFORE Working on Electrical Problems


Many do-it-yourself (DIY) projects are trial and error. You may still laugh at your first attempted faux finish or the shelves that crashed to the floor five minutes after you triumphantly tapped the last nail in.

Electrical projects do not fall in the trial-and-error category. However, all homeowners do need to perform some basic electrical repairs. Before attempting to fix electrical problems, follow the steps below to ensure a safe and successful repair.

1. Do I have your permission?
Depending on where you live, you may or may not need a permit from your local electrical authority to do electrical work on your own home. According to the Oregon Department of Business and Consumer Services (ODBCS), homeowners do not need a permit to replace electrical devices or to perform the maintenance on an existing electrical installation. However, the ODBCS states that a permit is require to:
install or alter any permanent wiring or electrical device
run additional wiring, put in an electrical outlet or light fixture, install a receptacle for a garage-door opener, or convert from fuse box to circuit breakers
install or alter low-voltage systems such as security alarms or stereo or computer systems
The laws about permits vary from state to state, so be sure to check with your local office about whether you are required to have a permit or not.

2. Lights out.
Turn off electrical power at the source, through a circuit breaker. Even if you flip a wall switch, the related appliance or socket will still be live. Although many electrical distribution panels have a diagram on them detailing which circuit is hooked up to which breaker, do not trust them.

Check for yourself that the circuit is dead by using a voltage tester. For this part of the process a helper can be quite useful, to prevent you from scurrying to and from, from the circuit breaker or fuse box to test the circuit and back again. Tape the circuit breaker into the off position to ensure that no helpful person tries to restore power while youre working. Do not restore power until you have completed your work.

Although you can turn off a switch or breakers, the main wires entering an electrical distribution panel from the outside can not be turned off. Do not touch these wires, and do not go near them with anything metal. If you believe the problem lies with the service wires, contact the power company.

3. Getting shocked puts a damper on things.
Do not stand in water on a damp floor. This could result in a very dangerouseven life-threateningshock. If water is on the floor, put down a rubber mat to stand on. Ensure you yourself are not wet by wearing dry clothes. As always, if you have any doubts about the safety of the situation, call a professional.

4. Metal or rubber?
Metal is bad. Rubber is good. Metal conducts electricity, which means that if you simultaneously touch metal and a live wire, your body conducts current from one to the other. Not pleasant or healthy.

Rubber, on the other hand, is a nonconductive material and, therefore, insulates you from electricity. Use tools with rubber- or plastic-coated handles and wear rubber-soled shoes or sneakers. Safety glasses and gloves are not a bad idea, either, when feasible.

5. Test it out.
Once you have finished your repair work, flip the fuse or circuit breaker to return power to the area. Use a voltage tester to check and see if the appropriate amount of electricity is flowing. Conventional lights, receptacles, and appliances use 120 volts of electricity. Larger appliances such as air conditioners and electric ovens require 240 volts. Certain appliancessuch as doorbells and telephonesutilize transformers that convert standard power to a lower voltage (usually between six and 12 volts) for safety.

To improve your electrical skills, many DIY stores offer clinics and workshops. Learn from the pros and ask questions so you feel more prepared the next time electrical work is needed. If you have any doubt about your abilities or the safety of the situation, leave it to the experts. Go work on repairing your faux finish or build new shelves while youre waiting for your friendly local electrician to arrive. And when he or she does come to the rescue, watch and learn.

These days, buyers of real estates are wising up on the correct way of purchasing homes.

Taking Sides the Pros and Cons of Vinyl Siding


Vinyl siding is a popular choice for homeowners who want to improve the looks of their home without painting. While vinyl is relatively inexpensive, and long-lasting, there are some pros and cons when it comes to choosing it for your home. There are many factors to consider when looking at installing vinyl siding.

There are several benefits to installing vinyl siding on your home. Vinyl siding is long lasting, durable, inexpensive and easy to maintain. Vinyl comes in a variety of grains, thickness and colors making it a practical choice for many homeowners.

Durability: One of the main reasons homeowners want to install vinyl siding is because it is long lasting and durable. Most vinyl siding companies offer siding that should last for a very long time. Vinyl siding can stand up to most weather conditions without worry of severe damage. Newer vinyl is even stronger than the older versions and is less likely to crack and become brittle. In addition, vinyl siding can withstand years of sunlight without fading.

Maintenance: Vinyl siding is easy to maintain. There is no need to ever paint the siding and it never fades from the elements. The only regular maintenance vinyl siding needs is to be spray washed once or twice a year. Vinyl siding has a new look year after year. If moisture becomes an issue, you will need to recaulk the joints between the siding and trim.

Cost Effective: Over the long term, vinyl siding can be cost effective. Siding is much more inexpensive than repainting and repairing wood on a home. The initial cost of vinyl siding will vary depending on the size of the home and the quality of the siding. Vinyl siding comes in many grains and thickness that will affect the total cost. Some also believe that vinyl siding can help reduce energy bills by serving as an extra layer of insulation.

Looks: Vinyl siding comes in many grains and colors to suit most homes. The good news about newer siding is that the color is baked through the vinyl instead of applied. This means that the color stays true over a long period of time and will not show scratches or small imperfections.

While vinyl siding is becoming more popular, there are many misconceptions about siding. Some of those misconceptions are that siding is indestructible and maintenance free. This is not always true. There are some precautions to be aware of before choosing vinyl siding.

Severe Weather Conditions: While it is true that most vinyl siding can withstand most weather conditions, some siding can be damaged in very severe weather. It can often be less durable than wood in extreme weather conditions. Very heavy and violent winds can penetrate under the siding and lift panels from the wall. Debris that is blown in the wind can puncture siding. It is also important to remember that when damage to vinyl siding occurs; the entire panel will need to be replaced.

Moisture Trap: While vinyl siding needs little maintenance to stay new looking, it can trap moisture. When moisture becomes trapped underneath siding panels, it can rot and cause mold and mildew to grow. This can become a breeding ground for insects. Also, if moisture is left untreated, the dampness can seep through to the inside of the house causing damp walls.

Cost: While vinyl siding can be cost effective over a long period of time, it may not substantially lower energy bills. Siding is backed with Styrofoam, but even with the thicker varieties, does not sufficiently insulate a wall.

Damage Control: Vinyl siding does come in an array of colors, however, if a panel becomes damaged it may be difficult to match the color. Some fading could occur with cheaper made siding after only five years. This could be a real problem is the colors do not match.

Whether you are choosing vinyl siding for the looks or durability, it is always important to research vinyl siding before having it put on your home. Siding can be beneficial to homeowners looking for a durable, yet maintenance free way of improving the home. Also, if you live in an area that has a neighborhood association, it is always a good idea to check to see if vinyl siding is allowed.