Dallas North Edition May 2023 Flipbook PDF


111 downloads 121 Views 8MB Size

Recommend Stories


May 17, Roman Catholic Diocese of Dallas. Mass Schedule
ST. PIUS X CATHOLIC CHURCH DALLAS, TEXAS LOVE ONE ANOTHER MAY 17, 2015 WWW.SPXDALLAS.ORG St. Pius X Catholic Church Roman Catholic Diocese of Dall

Dallas County Commissioners Court
Dallas County Commissioners Court MEETING AGENDA January 13, 2015 9:00 AM Administration Building Allen Clemson Courtroom 411 Elm Street Dallas, Texa

May
Euro Export Sailing Schedule -- Mar ,2016 Shanghai to Europe ----- LP4 Vessel / Voyage 013W09 008W10 014W11 012W12 NYK HERMES HYUNDAI PRIDE OOCL BRUS

INTELIGENCIA SOCIAL:La nueva ciencia de las relaciones humanas (Spanish Edition) Grey PDF. Download
INTELIGENCIA SOCIAL:La nueva ciencia de las relaciones humanas (Spanish Edition) Grey PDF INTELIGENCIA SOCIAL:La nueva ciencia de las relaciones huma

Tuesday, May 24, Wednesday, May 25, Thursday, May 26, 2016
May 10, 2016 Dear KanCare Stakeholder, Kansas is preparing to renew the KanCare Medicaid program and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (

Vivir y morir en Dallas
www.puntodelectura.com charlaine harris Vivir y morir en Dallas VivirMorirNDallas.indd 3 18/3/09 16:35:56 Charlaine Harris (Mississippi, Estados

Story Transcript

INSIDE

:

Check out offers f rom yo ur local p ros.

Dallas North Edition May 2023

Stop Problems Before They Happen

Maintenance Not to Skip

PLUS: What to Do When the AC Goes Out

001_0523_.pdf 1

3/22/23 9:50 AM

More play, less work. We can help get your yard ready for summer. Find pros

CO-FOUNDER Angie Hicks CONTENT DIRECTOR Sarah Branham EDITOR IN CHIEF Paul F. P. Pogue MANAGER, OPERATIONS AND CIRCULATION Ryan Maurer SENIOR MANAGER, CONTENT CREATORS Lynsi Boarman ASSISTANT MANAGER, CONTENT CREATORS Amanda Rull LEAD CONTENT CREATORS Stephanie Lenz, Kali Schetzsle SENIOR CONTENT CREATOR T. Garrett O’Sha CONTENT CREATORS Shelby Godard, Melissa Linn, Austin Surface COPY EDITOR/CONTRIBUTOR Brigitta Shannon Rose DIRECTOR, CLIENT SUCCESS SUPPORT Jeana Wagner MANAGER, CLIENT SUCCESS COORDINATORS Lindy McLain TEAM LEAD, CLIENT SUCCESS COORDINATORS Elizabeth McIntosh CLIENT SUCCESS COORDINATORS Ben Beaty, Chelsea Fink, Kalen Fitzgerald, Billy Jones, Jenna Larson, Jessica Matucheski, Mike Seall, John Seitz

IFC_0523.indd 2

3/15/23 12:53 PM

Your home for everything home. Home renovations are exciting: a major home update can make your space more enjoyable to use, especially when splurging on high-end finishes or updated appliances. But the truth is, these types of home reno projects are typically uncommon, whereas essential home maintenance tasks, such as HVAC tune-ups and gutter cleaning, will take up much of your time. Though these tasks are among the less exhilarating parts of homeownership, they are also the most important. Your home’s elements work in concert in ways that may not always be apparent at first. That’s why one problem can affect many others. Poor attic ventilation can cause ice dams on rooftops, later causing water damage and mold. Clogged gutters can not only damage your roof, but also your yard and your foundation. Our guide to essential maintenance covers some of the most important tasks for long-term home health. With the hottest days of summer on the way, we’ve also included our best advice for what to do when the air conditioning goes out. And since no summer is complete without a little splashing around, in this issue we take a deep dive into how swimming pools work.

Ready to review a pro? Open the camera app on your mobile device and scan here to sign in, or review a pro at Angi.ink/reviews0523.

May 2023 Cover art: Getty Images

WRIT_0523.indd 3

3/22/23 10:28 AM

Ask Our editors answer your most pressing household questions.

Yard erosion can damage even the most carefully planned yard, but several methods can prevent this. Planting grass or laying sod helps with gentle sloping land, while deep-rooted grasses and ground-covering plants help deeper slopes. Spreading mulch or compost on erosion areas works on lightly sloped areas but should be used in concert with other control methods. Rock gardens can help keep soil in place instead of running down deep slopes, as can terraces. A retaining wall can help protect from erosion as well. Find a pro to help at Angi.ink/hardscaping0523. 4

GETTY IMAGES

How can I prevent yard erosion?

Angi | May 2023

ASK_0523.indd 4

3/22/23 10:30 AM

ASK ANGI

Who should I call before digging in my yard? If you need to dig in your yard, call 811 before you start. Call-Before-You-Dig, or 811, is the national program that tracks underground utility services. Most states have laws requiring you to call before digging, even shallow jobs like planting trees or shrubs. Some utilities are buried only two feet below ground. This precaution can avoid injuring workers or damaging lines. Also, the person who causes the damage can be financially responsible. Call or go online to submit a request several days to a week before you dig.

What goes into pressure washing my home?

GETTY IMAGES

Pressure washing is a cleaning system that uses cool, pressurized water to clean surfaces. It’s suitable for heavy-duty cleaning jobs, like painted decks, driveways, wooden structures, and lawn furniture. Because of the high pressure, carefully read instructions for the washer and wear the proper protective clothing. If the area you are cleaning has a significant level of grime, use a cleanser to help scrub away the mess. While you can DIY this project, professionals can access more robust and effective professional-grade equipment.

OUR COMMITMENT TO MEMBERS • Angi reviews come from real people like you! To ensure the integrity of our members’ recommendations, we prohibit anonymous reviews, require members to attest that each review is based on a real experience, and investigate any suspicious activity. • Pros cannot pay to be rated, are not allowed to rate themselves, and may not themselves remove ratings and reviews from Angi. • We invite pros who meet our eligibility requirements to advertise a discount in the magazine’s coupon section. A pro must have either no reviews or an average rating of 3.0 stars or above to advertise. We revoke the advertising of any pro whose average rating falls below 3.0 stars. • Angi charges all participating pros a fee that helps offset the cost of sending you the magazine. We also accept advertising for products and services we don’t rate. Those ads appear separately from the coupon section.

CONNECT WITH US Please share your comments about our stories and service. Thank you for being a valued reader. [email protected] facebook.com/angi twitter.com/angi_home instagram.com/angi pinterest.com/angi youtube.com/c/angi_home tiktok.com/@angi.home

How can we help?

Reproduction of any material from this issue is expressly forbidden without permission of the publisher. Angi assumes no responsibility for the return of any unsolicited materials. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising material. The publisher is not liable to any advertiser, contributor or reader for any errors or omissions in advertising or editorial copy appearing in this publication; however, the publisher will print a correction in the next issue of Angi published after the publisher has been notified of the error or omission, which must be made in writing to the publisher within 30 days of the original publication date.

Email your own home care questions to [email protected] with the subject line “Ask Angi” and we may answer them in a future issue.

Our magazine contains advertisements from service providers and manufacturers who are eligible to advertise with Angi. While these companies are highly rated by our members, Angi makes no warranties or representations regarding the products or services they offer or the statements made in their advertising. Angi disclaims any liability regarding the same.

Angi.com 5

ASK_0523.indd 5

3/22/23 10:30 AM

May Home Care As the warm days begin, don’t overlook these tasks around your home. For a full month-by-month maintenance plan from our experts, check out our Home Maintenance Planner in the Angi app and start checking off your to dos.

Prepare for Pests The spring and summer months allow pests time and space to thrive. Doors are open, people are going in and out, and picnics are underway. Prevent summer pests by keeping all food secure in sealed containers and minimize how long it’s out. Seal up potential bug entry points, such as cracks along windows or walls. Outside your home, eliminate any pooled water. Mosquitoes can breed in less than an inch of water, so make sure there’s no standing water in your yard. Hire a pest control pro at Angi.ink/pests0523.

More than almost any other element of your home, your driveway is prone to small problems that can get very big and very expensive quickly. If you catch these issues early, you can fix them at a much lower cost. Look carefully for cracks. You can use crack filler on small cracks yourself, but if they start to grow, get professional help to patch it. If water pools on your driveway, it may be improperly sloped, which can cause long-term damage. In some cases, your driveway may require resurfacing or resealing. An asphalt driveway pro can help you decide what to do at Angi.ink/asphalt0523.

GTK_HomePlanner_0523.indd 6

GETTY IMAGES

Inspect Your Driveway

3/21/23 11:01 AM

HOME MAINTENANCE

Refinish and Seal Your Deck Your deck is a big investment in your home and a major component of your outdoor entertaining, so you want to keep it in its best shape. Composite decks can last for many years just with basic cleaning and being hosed down, but wood decks require extra attention. To get the best performance from your wood deck, reseal and restain it every few years. You can do this work yourself, but it saves a lot of hassle to just have a pro do it, which costs about $900 on average. Find a local deck pro at Angi.ink/decks0523.

Repair Gates and Fences Fences and gates play a big role in your home by defining the edge of your yard and keeping pets in and unwanted visitors out. When problems with fences and gates are left unattended, they can get costly, unsafe, or both. Inspect your fences and gates for any damage. A leaning fence means the posts might be worn out, or possibly have termite damage. Signs of wind or water damage should be examined by a pro. Find one to assist at Angi.ink/fences0523.

Ready to Tackle More Projects? GETTY IMAGES

Take care of your home with ease with our Home Maintenance Planner. View short monthly lists, organize effortlessly, and get tasks done right. Get started today by logging into the Angi app at Angi.ink/loginapp0523. Angi.com 7

GTK_HomePlanner_0523.indd 7

3/21/23 11:01 AM

ANATOMY OF AN

In-Ground Pool In-ground pools include complicated moving parts under the surface that you barely ever see. Here’s a deep dive into the working parts of an in-ground pool, along with maintenance recommendations.

5

4

2

In/Outside the Pool:

8

1

Pool cover prevents debris from ever getting into the water in the first place

2

In-pool motion detectors will warn you if accidental or uninvited swimmers are present in the pool

3

Pool walls/floor should be brushed of debris regularly

4

Emergency instructions/posted warning signs provide safety reminders, CPR instructions, and emergency contact numbers clearly and visibly near the pool

5

Barriers protect the pool with a sturdy and secure fence Angi | May 2023

WORKS_0523.indd 8

3/22/23 10:43 AM

HOME WORKS KEEP IT CLEAN A pool cleaning company can maintain your pool and keep all these elements in good operating order. Find a pool pro near you at Angi.ink/pools0523.

1

3 7

10

11

9

6

8

The System: 6

Skimmer draws water from the surface into the filtration system

7

Drains draw water out of the pool, and covers should be updated to meet recently changed federal standards

8

Pool pump keeps water moving through your pool and prevents standing water

9

Filter protects against debris and should be cleaned regularly

10 Thermostat/heater keeps water at the desired temperature 11 Chlorinator adds chlorine to the water Angi.com 9

WORKS_0523.indd 9

3/22/23 10:43 AM

10 TASKS TO

GETTY IMAGES

Maintain a Happy Home

10

Angi | May 2023

CVST_0523.indd 10

3/21/23 11:32 AM

BY PAUL F. P. POGUE

Some jobs around your home make you more comfortable; others fix what is broken. But some of the most critical tasks are maintenance tasks—the work that stops problems before they happen, prevents little problems from becoming big ones, and adds years to your home’s life by keeping it in great shape. Not all of these tasks may apply to your home, but if you have these features, Angi experts and home pros recommend that you not skip these 10 essential maintenance jobs. Angi.com 11

CVST_0523.indd 11

3/21/23 11:32 AM

Trim Trees and Shrubs

7 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Tree Service  What certifications do you hold?  Are you bonded or insured?  W  hat method will you use to remove the tree?  hat heavy equipment will you  W bring onto the property?  Will you remove the stump?  How will you dispose of the tree?  D  oes the service include post-removal cleanup?

CVST_0523.indd 12

Tree trimming is one of the best ways to help enhance the appearance of your trees and help them thrive. Snipping away older, weaker branches helps the rest of the tree stay in good shape and receive the moisture, sunlight, and nutrients it needs to stay healthy. Keeping trees in good shape also protects your home from potential fallen branches, so both your neighbors and insurance company will thank you. Bushes present less of a threat to the home, but they should still be kept neatly trimmed and in good order. Well-manicured bushes brighten up your curb appeal and keep insects from having easy access to your walls and windows.

GETTY IMAGES

Time frame: At least once per year National average: $200–$760 Hire today at: Angi.ink/treeservice0523

3/21/23 11:32 AM

GETTY IMAGES

Inspect Roof

Clean Gutters

Time frame: Once per year National average: $210 Hire today at: Angi.ink/roofs0523

Time frame: One to four times per year National average: $120–$220 Hire today at: Angi.ink/gutters0523

Your roof is one of the most essential parts of your home. And yet, it’s easy to forget about this workhorse that handles all the elements. But when roofing problems go wrong, they go very wrong and can lead to expensive repairs and internal leaks in places you might not even know about. A yearly roofing inspection helps prevent these issues. Fall is the best time to schedule a roof inspection, but also consider hiring an inspector if you’ve had a severe recent storm, noticed internal leaks, or plan to sell or refinance your home. Inspectors will physically look at your roof, and sometimes use drones for an aerial view.

Hard though it may be to believe, gutter cleaning is one of the single most crucial pieces of home maintenance. Clogged gutters can back water up onto your roof, causing mold and damage. During winter, clogs can make water freeze and refreeze into ice dams for even more damage. And when water pours uncontrollably from the edge of your home, it tends to pool at your foundation, potentially put pressure on your basement walls, and erode the yard. Cleaning leaves and debris from your gutters prevent this. You can DIY this project, but be cautious. Gutter cleaning involves a lot of ladders and high places. It’s best to leave this to the pros. Angi.com 13

CVST_0523.indd 13

3/21/23 11:32 AM

Power Wash Exterior Surfaces

Mold, mildew, grime, and just general debris build up on the surface of your home (and driveway, and deck, and so forth) over time. Sooner or later, your brightly painted home becomes dull and flat. A power washing job can help by blasting away the grime and improving curb appeal in an afternoon. But power washing is about more than just looking good. That mold and mildew on your siding can damage it over the years, in addition to being unsightly, so a yearly power washing job improves both the look and health of your home. By the way, although they sound similar, power washing and pressure washing are slightly different. Power washing also heats the water and uses additional cleaning agents. 14

GETTY IMAGES

Time frame: Once per year National average: $100–$650 Hire today at: Angi.ink/powerwash0523

Angi | May 2023

CVST_0523.indd 14

3/21/23 11:32 AM

Audit for Energy Efficiency

GETTY IMAGES

Time frame: Once every 5–10 years National average: $400 Hire today at: Angi.ink/audit0523 Having an energy audit every several years can yield huge benefits in comfort and lower utility bills. A home energy auditor will complete a comprehensive test of your home to analyze energy usage and loss. They’ll find the obvious issues, such as cracks and gaps, but also use sophisticated equipment to test your walls for insufficient insulation and blower doors to determine where the air is being lost from your home. An auditor will provide a written report that details all the improvements you can make to improve your energy efficiency.

Cost of Common Energy Audit Tests  Blower Door Test: $350  Duct Testing: $100  HERS Test: $375  HERS Certification: $200  Infrared Imaging: $200 Angi.com 15

CVST_0523.indd 15

3/21/23 11:32 AM

Clean Carpets

How to Keep Your Carpet Warranty Valid  H  ave the original proof of purchase  erform routine cleanings  P and maintenance  ire a carpet pro once  H every 12 to 24 months  ave receipts from  S professional cleanings  Use approved products and tools

CVST_0523.indd 16

Your carpets take a lot of heavy traffic over the months and years. Regular carpet cleaning removes dirt and debris that might have built up, making it look brandnew. It also helps get rid of allergens and other dust in your carpets. Keeping up with cleaning adds years to your carpet’s life by keeping it in the best condition. Many carpet manufacturers’ warranties specify the cleaning requirements. Keep the receipts from your cleanings if you ever need to file a warranty claim. You can DIY this job with rented carpet cleaning machines, but remember that this may void your warranty.

GETTY IMAGES

Time frame: Once per year (twice if you have kids or pets) National average: $120–$230 Hire today at Angi.ink/cleancarpets0523

3/21/23 11:32 AM

Sweep Chimney

GETTY IMAGES

Time frame: Once per year National average: $130–$380 Hire today at: Angi.ink/chimneys0523 Some chimneys are merely for show, and other functional chimneys don’t get used much. But if you burn wood or gas fires in your chimney even occasionally, it must be checked out once a year before the cold months begin. The debris and creosote buildup can back smoke into your house and present a fire risk. Chimney sweeping is much more than just sticking a pole down your chimney. A pro will use specialized tools to break up and remove debris, and conduct a further structural and safety inspection. Look for pros certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America, the leading trade organization.

Flush Water Heater Tank Time frame: Once per year National average: $200 Hire today at: Angi.ink/waterheater0523 If you have a traditional tank water heater, it builds up sediment over the months. The minerals occur naturally in all water, so they’ll inevitably settle at the bottom of your tank. This buildup can harm your tank by slowing down water flow, interfering with heating, and causing corrosion, leaks, or bursts. A yearly drain-and-flush process can prevent these problems. (If you have particularly hard water, you should do this every six months.) It’s a potentially DIY project, but one best left to the pros if it is not something you’ve done regularly, in case something goes wrong. (Water heaters leak a LOT when something goes wrong!) Angi.com 17

CVST_0523.indd 17

3/21/23 11:32 AM

Tune-Up Garage Door Time frame: Once every two years National average: $100–$200 Hire today at: Angi.ink/garagedoor0523 Garage door openers are complex and sophisticated instruments, combining carefully calibrated pulleys and springs. Hire an inspector every other year to tune-up your door and opener. They’ll test all elements for proper opening and closing, inspect all the moving parts, lubricate anything that needs to be lubricated, and adjust bolts, nuts, springs, belts, and chains. Signs your garage door needs a tune-up include unusual noises, slow or jerky movement, bent or damaged parts, or the garage door doesn’t open or close all the way. It’s best to leave this job to the pros because of the very delicate and potentially dangerous work.

Inspect Basement Time frame: Once a year National average: $300–$600 Hire today at: Angi.ink/basements0523 If you have a basement, spring takes a serious toll on it, so you should check it out every spring. If you have serious concerns, you can hire a pro or structural engineer to take a look for a cost of a few hundred dollars. However, you can also perform a self-inspection each spring to look out for trouble. Leaks and basement cracks can do a lot of internal damage and rack up big repair bills if not addressed quickly. Seek out cracks in the joints and on the walls. Small cracks might not be a big deal, but mark their location with a pencil and check them every so often to see if they grow. Large or growing cracks require the attention of an expert. Also, watch for water damage, mold, musty odors, and any other sign that something’s not right. ¢

How to Save on Basement Waterproofing Costs  Clean and align gutters

 Fix water damage ASAP

 D  IY minor repairs like filling cracks

 L  imit waterproofing to leaky areas

CVST_0523.indd 18

3/21/23 11:32 AM

HOME MAINTENANCE PLANNER

The Only Checklist You’ll Ever Need View Short Monthly Lists We broke down annual maintenance by month. You’ll always know what to focus on.

Organize Effortlessly Add reminders to your calendar, check off completed to dos, and see what’s coming up.

Get Tasks Done Right

GETTY IMAGES

Learn what’s involved with each task. If you want help, we’ll find you a top-rated pro.

Ready to Get Started? Use the Home Maintenance Planner by logging into the Angi app at Angi.ink/loginapp0523. Angi.com 19

CVST_0523.indd 19

3/21/23 11:32 AM

GETTY IMAGES

20

Angi | May 2023

FEA_0523.indd 20

3/22/23 10:47 AM

AC ON THE FRITZ?

p ee K Cool your

BY PAUL F. P. POGUE

Hot summer days are blissfully cool when air conditioners are running full swing. But what do you do when the thermostat stops working and starts to climb unexpectedly? Few household problems are as disheartening and uncomfortable as a blown-out air conditioner. It can be dangerous if you have small children, older people, or those with chronic illnesses in the home. Here’s a list of what to do when the air conditioning stops working. Angi.com 21

FEA_0523.indd 21

3/22/23 10:47 AM

CHECK FOR THE OBVIOUS Some cooling problems are simple. If you have an older system, check to see if your thermostat’s batteries may be dead. Air conditioning draws a lot of power, so check that the circuit breaker hasn’t been tripped, and look around your HVAC unit to verify that everything is plugged in correctly, with no exposed wiring. Don’t try to repair electrical issues yourself—that’s a job for a pro. Look outside and ensure your external unit is clear of debris and leaves. Trim back any bushes or plants that have grown into the unit. Ideally, your unit needs a few feet of clearance, which also allows room for technicians to take a look. Many AC units have a switch on both the indoor and outdoor units to turn off the power so they can be safely serviced. If you know where those switches are, check to see that they’re still on.

Is your AC not blowing air at all? Is it blowing air but not cold air? What if it’s simply turning off and on a lot when it shouldn’t? These indicate different problems. Take note of precisely what’s happening, which will help your technician figure out what to do. Make sure the coils and evaporator aren’t dirty. Dirt build-up can cause long term issues if it is ignored. Take a look and if you see that it’s dirty, clear the debris by spraying it with a hose. Make sure that the unit is powered off. 22

Have you changed your air filters recently? It’s a little late now to fix them, but if they’re dirty, that could explain part of the problem. You should be changing these every 90 days. Air conditioners display condensation all the time, but you shouldn’t see brightly colored refrigerant or water leaking within your house. Either is a sign of a bigger problem. If you see ice on your air coils, that’s another bad sign. It means your AC is working too hard, and something could be wrong internally.

GETTY IMAGES

GATHER ALL THE INFO

Angi | May 2023

FEA_0523.indd 22

3/22/23 10:47 AM

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE

CALL A PRO

GETTY IMAGES

Once you know the situation and that it’s not in your control to fix it, call a professional and have your list in hand. AC repair jobs range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the exact nature of the issue. But the sooner you call a pro, the faster you’ll have cool air running again. ¢ GET YOUR AC GOING An AC professional can help you with options at Angi.ink/AC0523.

You should hire a pro to inspect your HVAC unit twice a year—once before the cooling season and once before the heating season. This regular checkup will help prevent problems and discover small ones early on. The technician will also lubricate the HVAC’s moving parts and take other steps to tune up the system and keep it in working order. This service costs about $100. Consider scheduling regular maintenance service well in advance or committing to a service contract with an HVAC company before the hot time of year begins. This contract usually includes regular inspections and priority service in an emergency. Angi.com 23

FEA_0523.indd 23

3/22/23 10:47 AM

What are the final steps before moving day? BY BRIGITTA SHANNON ROSE

Two weeks before

Two days before

About two weeks before moving, make arrangements for moving your pets. Having dogs or cats underfoot while loading and unloading a truck can be distracting and dangerous. Find a pet sitter who can watch your pets during this time. Also, take a little time to enjoy the things you loved about your old neighborhood so that you can get a small break (and a bit of reminiscing).

Once you hit T-minus two days, switch out your grocery, pet, or Amazon delivery addresses so your automatic deliveries reach your final destination. Collect your valuables (including vital paperwork) and set them aside to keep track of them. Also, make sure you have enough cash to tip movers, pay babysitters, or hand over to the pizza delivery person.

One week before

Moving day

One week before the move, finalize plans with the movers (be they professionals or friends). Also, finish packing the essential items you will need on move-in day, such as extension cords, toilet paper, linens and towels, plastic tableware, toolkits and stepladders, lightbulbs, and plenty of garbage bags.

The big day is here. Remember to pause and breathe; it will be a busy day. Before leaving your old home for the last time, do a last-minute sweep of each room to ensure nothing was left behind and check all cabinets and closets. And remember to turn off the lights on your way out.

24

GETTY IMAGES

Moving can be stressful, whether you are moving to your dream home, downsizing after the children have left the nest, or relocating for a new career opportunity! Not to mention that late spring is the biggest time of year for moving. Once you have made arrangements with your movers (or bribe your friends into helping you), here are some last-minute things to help take some stress out of the process.

Angi | May 2023

BACK1_0523.indd 24

3/21/23 12:35 PM

GETTY IMAGES

MAKE IT EASY A moving pro can solve all kinds of problems at Angi.ink/moving0523.

Angi.com 25

BACK1_0523.indd 25

3/21/23 12:35 PM

Yard Grading Essentials Summer is fast approaching. The sun will shine, and you and your family will be ready to spend more time outdoors. Your lawn is about to get some serious traffic, so now is the time to think about yard grading. Here’s what you need to know. 26

GETTY IMAGES

BY BRIGITTA SHANNON ROSE

Angi | Month 2022

BACK2_0523.indd 26

3/21/23 11:35 AM

MAKE THE GRADE Find a local pro to help at Angi.ink/grading0523.

g

What is yard grading?

How to measure your grade?

Yard grading isn’t giving your lawn an A+. It adds soil or drainage systems to level the ground and help with water drainage. Grading is described in two ways: positive and negative. Positive grading is where your house is at the property’s highest point, while negative is the lowest (or lower) point. The first 10 feet from your home should slope at least 6 inches down and away from the house, though some contractors prefer a slightly steeper slope.

Figure out how your lawn drains by measuring your lawn’s rise (the vertical distance of the slope) and run (the horizontal distance). This measurement helps you determine your lawn’s grade and where you need to clear land or add soil to level things out. A professional landscaper can help with this.

GETTY IMAGES

Why should I have my yard graded? Because a graded yard helps with drainage, having the process done helps prevent water from pooling in your yard. This work can help prevent mosquitoes from nesting in your yard (and bugging you and your guests). Also, grading helps prevent water from seeping into your home’s foundation or basement.

How much does it cost? Lawn grading can cost as little as $400 for smaller yards to $6,000+ for larger ones. You can hire a pro to either help with the grading assessment and project planning (which you will then execute) or complete the project from start to finish. Remember that labor costs may vary based on your lawn’s need. Also, soil types can vary in price. Angi.com 27

BACK2_0523.indd 27

3/21/23 11:35 AM

Keep Your Disposal in Tip-Top Shape BY BRIGITTA SHANNON ROSE

HAVING TROUBLE? Call a garbage disposal pro if something goes wrong at Angi.ink/disposal0523. 28

GETTY IMAGES

Your garbage disposal probably gets a lot of use in your house, especially if you cook a lot at home. They make waste disposal easier and save your pipes from clogs. And taking care of your disposal will help prolong its life and optimize its performance.

Angi | May 2023

BACK3_0523.indd 28

3/21/23 11:38 AM

How to safely use your disposal When running your disposal, slowly feed small amounts of food to it (and keep it to food because other forms of trash can clog the machine or damage the blades). Use cold water instead of hot to keep any small amounts of fats or greases from melting, causing more problems for both the disposal and your pipes.

What foods to avoid While the disposal is suitable for food waste, avoid certain foods. Hard food substances, like bones, nuts, and fruit pits, can damage the blades. Fibrous foods like fruit and potato peelings, celery, broccoli, greens like kale and collards, and eggshells (yes, really) can gum up the machine’s workings, causing them to jam and potentially damaging the machine’s motor.

How to clean or unclog it

GETTY IMAGES

Performing regular cleaning and maintenance can prolong the life of your garbage disposal. Before you do either of these things, turn off the power to the disposal! For weekly cleanings, toss in a few lemon, lime, or orange peels (those are safe!) and a handful of ice to sharpen the blades and freshen up the scent. Occasionally, you want to deep clean it with soap (for the rubber flaps, which can collect a lot of slime and grime), baking soda and vinegar (or commercial disposal cleaner), salt, and water. If your machine is clogged, use tongs or pliers to remove the debris causing the problem. NEVER put your hands down the drain. Even if the power is disconnected, the blades are still sharp. Angi.com 29

BACK3_0523.indd 29

3/21/23 11:38 AM

PLANNING YOUR PROJECT

Electrical Safety

PREC_0523.indd 30

TIPS AND TRICKS • Look for GFCI outlets (the ones with their own circuit breaker buttons) in kitchens, bathrooms, and any outlets near water. If they’re not GFCI, hire a pro to upgrade them. • If your circuit breakers trip frequently, get them checked out. • Never plug multiple extension cords together. • Regularly inspect power and extension cords for fraying. Replace any that have been damaged. GET HELP If you have electrical problems, find a pro at Angi.ink/electrical0523.

GETTY IMAGES

BE PREPARED May is National Electrical Safety Month. Electricity is vital to keeping your home running smoothly, but it can also be a fire or shock hazard when not treated with respect. Experts advise you to never try to alter a three-prong socket to plug into a two-prong outlet; the third prong is an important safety ground. Don’t mess around with your electrical wiring as a DIY job; this is a task for experts. Air flow is important for some electrical devices such as video game consoles and computers. If your device has an exhaust fan, keep it clean. And make sure all your devices have room around them for air flow.

3/21/23 11:47 AM

Coupon Directory SAVE WITH OFFERS FROM PROS ON ANGI

MAY 2023

The coupon section is designed to help you hire smart and save money at the same time. We invite the contractors and health providers featured in this section to offer a discount on their services or another exclusive member benefit. All offers are valid through the end of the current publication month unless otherwise noted. A pro must have either no reviews or an average rating of 3.0 stars or above to advertise in the magazine. We revoke the magazine advertising of any pro whose average rating falls below 3.0 stars. Please visit Angi.com before hiring for up-to-date ratings and current Super Service Award status.

DALN_XX012023_1.indd 1

Featured Service .............. A2

Pressure Washing...............A6

Honor Roll......................... A3

Real Estate Agents.............A6

Air Duct Cleaning................A4 Garage Doors...................... A5

Health & Wellness

Heating & A/C.....................A6

Home Healthcare —

Lawn Irrigation....................A6

In-Home Services............ A7

Hop online to browse companies’ reviews. When scheduling service, be sure to ask service companies if they offer a discount.

Visit us online at Angi.com

3/23/23 9:36 AM

This Month:

Summer Checklist

Share A Review

469-931-9867

Help Fellow Members:

www.dallasroofer.com

Hire Smarter Make Informed Decisions Save Time

Previous Awards 2019 — 2012

To leave a review, visit Angi.com

• Residential • Commercial • Roofing • Painting • Gutters • Windows • A/C • Fences • Water Damage • Fire Restoration And More!

w Revie

We Earn Lifelong Customers, One At A Time.

10% Off Full Re-Roof For Military And Seniors. 10% Off Full Roof For Angi Members.

— Free Inspections —

Inspect your roof for signs of water damage. The effects of snow and ice buildup on roofs often don’t reveal themselves until the spring, when water damage can appear, possibly destroying interior walls and carpeting. If you see or suspect damage to your roof or notice interior water damage, contact a roofing pro for an inspection.

_



ABCDEFGH IJKLMNOP QRST UVW XYZab cdef ghijklmnopq rstuvwxyz1234567890- =!@# $%^&*()_+[]\{}|;’:”,. ? /



HONOR

ROLL

Previous Awards 2020

469-931-9867

www.dallasroofer.com $1250 OFF Kitchen Remodel

$500 OFF

Guest Bath Remodel

Previous Awards 2019 — 2012

10% Off Full Re-Roof For Military And Seniors. 10% Off Full Roof For Angi Members.

$1000 OFF

Master Bath Remodel

We Earn Lifelong Customers, One At A Time.

Make Your Home Pop

• Residential • Commercial • Roofing • Painting • Gutters • Windows • A/C • Fences • Water Damage • Fire Restoration And More!

Custom Cabinets • Quartz Counters • Tub To Showers

214-980-2669

— Free Inspections —

splashpaintingandremodeling.com

Thank You to the Honor Roll advertisers on this page for providing quality customer service.

_



ABCDEFGH IJKLMNOP QRST UVW XYZab cdef ghijklmnopq rstuvwxyz1234567890- =!@# $%^&*()_+[]\{}|;’:”,. ? /



A4

May 2023

AIR DUCT CLEANING

Angi Members: FREE Energy Audit $300 Value

214-972-2570

Big improvements, small payments. Quick and easy

Upfront pricing

No hidden fees

Tackle any project on your to-do list with pay-over-time financing.

+

Learn more at Angi.ink/affirm0523.

Payment options through Affirm are subject to eligibility, and are provided by these lending partners: affirm.com/lenders. Affirm and its lending partners do business in accordance with federal Fair Lending laws.

DALN2023_05_01[4-7]

ABCDEFGH IJKLMNOP QRST UVW XYZab cdef ghijklmnopq rstuvwxyz1234567890- =!@# $%^&*()_+[]\{}|;’:”,. ? /

March 27, 2023 4:57 PM

Angi Coupon Section

GARAGE DOORS

Since 1977. Locally Family Owned & Operated.

972-422-1695

www.PlanoOverhead.com

FREE

Service, Repair, Replacement Residential Garage Doors & Garage Door Openers ✔ Garage Door Tune-Up ✔ Full Service & Safety Check

Previous Awards 2021 — 2005

With Purchase of

New Garage Door or Opener A $179.00 COMBINED VALUE! *Exclusively for Angi Members.

See our website for more offers! SAME DAY SERVICE • 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

FREE IN-HOME WRITTEN ESTIMATE. No Service Charge, No Gimmicks.

DALN2023_05_01[4-7]

ABCDEFGH IJKLMNOP QRST UVW XYZab cdef ghijklmnopq rstuvwxyz1234567890- =!@# $%^&*()_+[]\{}|;’:”,. ? /

March 27, 2023 4:57 PM

A5

A6

May 2023

HEATING & A/C

LAWN IRRIGATION

Experts Providing Communication, Integrity & Quality Work

RESIDENTIAL MULTI-FAMILY COMMERCIAL SERVICES

Sprinkler System Installations & Repairs

• HEATING & A/C REPAIRS

Free Estimates

• NEW INSTALLATIONS

214-725-4499

• MAINTENANCE

FREE

WIFI ENABLED THERMOSTAT WITH NEW INSTALLATION ($300 VALUE)

www.diamondscenery.com [email protected]

214-561-6010 WWW.TRUECOMFORTAC.COM

5% Off For Angi Members

PRESSURE WASHING

Precision

Night Security Timed exterior lights or motion lights that detect movement can help keep your family safe at night.

Power Washing

We Will Meet All of Your Power Washing Needs Competitive Pricing Excellent Customer Service Locally Owned and Operated Residential and in DFW Commercial Services Bonded and Insured

469-713-9274 www.precision-wash.com

10% discount with with qualifying qualifying purchase purchase of of $200 $200 or or more more for for Angi Angi members members

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

DALN2023_05_01[4-7]

ABCDEFGH IJKLMNOP QRST UVW XYZab cdef ghijklmnopq rstuvwxyz1234567890- =!@# $%^&*()_+[]\{}|;’:”,. ? /

March 27, 2023 4:57 PM

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Angi Health & Wellness

Save with offers from health and wellness providers on Angi! The Health & Wellness advertising section is designed to help you choose a provider wisely and save money at the same time. The providers featured in this section are encouraged to offer you an exclusive benefit or a discount on their services. These offers are valid through the end of the current publication month unless otherwise noted. All health advertisers must have either no reviews or an average rating of 3.0 stars or above to advertise. Please visit Angi.com for up-to-date ratings.

HOME HEALTHCARE — IN-HOME SERVICES

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME Select Your Caregiver ™

SENIOR HOMECARE - Affordable Hourly Rates - Up to 24 Hour Care - Personal Care and Hygiene Assistance - Joyful Companionship - Errands and Shopping - Meal Preparation

Angi members choose their own care provider. No anonymous care providers.

214.368.2225

Let’s get the job done. Manage projects, request quotes, search deals, and communicate with pros all from one place. Download the Angi app today at Angi.ink/angiapp0523.

DALN2023_05_01[4-7]

ABCDEFGH IJKLMNOP QRST UVW XYZab cdef ghijklmnopq rstuvwxyz1234567890- =!@# $%^&*()_+[]\{}|;’:”,. ? /

March 27, 2023 4:57 PM

A7

Member Care — How can we help you? Email [email protected]

Angi.com

Step 1 of any home project: get the Angi app. Scan to download

BCOV_0523.indd 31

3/22/23 11:10 AM

Get in touch

Social

© Copyright 2013 - 2024 MYDOKUMENT.COM - All rights reserved.