November is slips, trips, and falls prevention month and what better way to bring attention to this safety concern than to discuss important tips to reduce the risk of injury from one of these actions. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 38.4% of deaths in the construction industry in 2022 were due to falls, slips, and trips. How can you protect yourself while on the job or at home?

Tips:

• Wear footwear designed to reduce slip accidents.

  • This would generally be footwear with adequate grips along the sole. Over time your soles can be worn down so it’s important to check them regularly and replace your footwear when they start to lose their grip.

• Keep floors dry.

  • Pay attention to the weather and be prepared for rain and snow. It is helpful to have mats inside entryways to collect excess water on rainy or snowy days and reduce puddles from spreading around inside.

  • Clean up spills and puddles as soon as possible and utilize caution signs when a slip risk occurs.

  • Watch for ice in the winter months and proceed with caution when walking outside, especially when carrying objects.

  • Consider bringing a separate set of footwear for the inside to make sure your soles stay dry.

• Remove clutter.

  • Keep a clean space. Pick up misplaced objects like shoes, bags, tools, toys, etc. and try not to leave items lying around (especially in walkways).

• Provide adequate lighting.

  • Poor lighting can make it difficult to see some spills and puddles, it can make it difficult to see objects that could be tripped over, and a misstep walking up or down stairs can occur when it’s hard to see your footing.

• Use handrails or utilize extra caution where handrails are unavailable.

  • Everyone should know the importance of handrails, they help you keep balance when walking or climbing and can be used to grab or hold if you slip, trip, or begin to fall. Unfortunately, handrails are not always available, especially if your home is having work done and they may not have been installed yet.

  • When a handrail is missing, consider other safety options such as attaching temporary rope handrails along steps to hold onto or to serve as a reminder of a ledge to help you from having an accidental fall from steps that are under construction.

• Conduct safety inspections.

  • Check your home periodically for trip hazards like loose carpeting, framing that is coming loose, or broken floor tiles. Check for loose railings on your steps inside your home or at your entryway and make sure lofts and raised landings have some kind of rail or wall to reduce the risk of an accidental fall.

Final thoughts:

While many of these concepts seem like basic knowledge, it is easy to get comfortable in our day to day lives and forget to look out for these risks. The Green Grampy cares about safety, which is why Green Grampy’s Home and Office Solutions, LLC is now offering swift response handyman work for those small fixes that you need help on. Visit www.swiftsolutionsnh.com to register with us as a VIP and get those safety hazards taken care of asap.

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In New Hampshire, the beauty of fall is accompanied by the ticking clock of winter’s arrival. Before the snowflakes begin to fall and temperatures dip, it’s essential to take care of some key outdoor projects. A little preparation now can save you from costly repairs, protect your home, and ensure that everything is ready when the winter weather hits.
Here’s a checklist of outdoor projects to tackle before the first snowfall.

1. Clean and Inspect Gutters
Fallen leaves, twigs, and debris can clog your gutters, leading to water buildup and ice dams in winter. Take the time to thoroughly clean them out and ensure water can flow freely.

What to Do:

o Check downspouts to make sure they are directing water away from your
foundation. Consider installing gutter guards to prevent clogs in the future.

2. Winterize Your Garden and Lawn
Your garden and lawn need a little TLC to survive the cold months. Proper preparation will set them up for a healthy return in the spring.

What to Do:

o Trim back perennials and remove any dead or diseased plants.
o Mow your lawn one last time and aerate it for better root development.
o Apply fall fertilizer to promote strong growth in the spring.
o Drain and store hoses to prevent freezing and cracking.

3. Store or Cover Outdoor Furniture
Outdoor furniture takes a beating from winter weather if left exposed. Protect your investment by storing or covering it.

What to Do:
o Clean furniture thoroughly before storing it in a shed or garage.
o Use weatherproof covers if storage space is limited.
o Bring in cushions and fabrics to prevent mold and mildew buildup.

4. Inspect and Seal Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors can let cold air in and drive up your heating bills. Sealing them before winter will improve comfort and energy efficiency.

What to Do:
o Check for gaps or cracks around windows and doors and apply caulk where
needed.
o Add weatherstripping to doors to prevent drafts.
o Install storm windows for extra insulation.

5. Prepare Your Driveway and Walkways
New Hampshire winters are tough on concrete and asphalt. Small cracks can expand when water seeps in and freezes. Addressing these issues now will help prevent costly repairs later.

What to Do:

o Inspect driveways and walkways for cracks or damage, and seal them if
necessary.
o Clear away any debris that could become a hazard when snow-covered.
o Stock up on ice melt and snow shovels so you’re ready for the first snowfall.

6. Schedule a Roof Inspection
A well-maintained roof is essential for withstanding heavy snow and ice. Small issues like missing shingles or clogged vents can lead to major problems if left unattended.

What to Do:
o Inspect the roof yourself or hire a professional to check for missing shingles,
leaks, or damaged flashing.
o Clear away any debris, such as leaves or branches, that might trap moisture.
o Make sure gutters are securely attached to prevent ice dams.

7. Service Outdoor Equipment
Lawnmowers, leaf blowers, and other outdoor equipment need to be properly stored to prevent damage during the winter.

What to Do:
o Clean equipment to remove grass and debris.
o Drain gas tanks or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent corrosion.
o Store equipment in a dry place to prevent rust.

8. Prep Your Home’s Exterior
Your home’s siding, decks, and fences need attention before winter weather sets in. Small maintenance tasks now can prevent costly damage later.

What to Do:
o Check for peeling paint or damaged siding and make necessary repairs.
o Clean and seal wooden decks and fences to protect them from moisture.
o Remove any leaves or debris from under decks to prevent mold and pests.

Conclusion: Stay Ahead of Winter with Early Prep
Taking care of these outdoor projects in the fall will not only protect your home but also make life easier when the snow arrives. By cleaning, inspecting, and maintaining your outdoor spaces now, you’ll be ready to enjoy the beauty of winter without the stress of unexpected repairs. If you need help with your fall maintenance projects, Green Grampy’s Home and Office Solutions, LLC is here to assist! From roof inspections to sealing windows and more, we’ve got you
covered. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get your home winter-ready.

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Do I have to worry about LEAD PAINT?

Short answer is YES! Lead paint was banned in 1978 due to its toxic nature. Homes built before this time may be at risk of having lead-based paint on their walls or exterior. How can you tell if your home has lead paint? How can you protect yourself and your family? What can happen if you are exposed to lead paint? And who can you call to help?

How do you know if you have lead paint in your home?

If your home was built prior to 1978, it is possible there is some lead paint on your walls or on the exterior of your home.  This is usually not a problem if newer layers of non-lead paint are covering those layers, however it is important to watch out for exposure points should that paint get uncovered.

Here are some exposure points to keep an eye on:

• Windowsills and door frames are common locations where paint starts to wear down and chip. Check these locations occasionally to make sure layers underneath are not exposed.
• Stairs, railing, banisters, and other regularly touched or walked on spaces are at an increased risk of wear-and-tear. Pay attention to these places and watch for damaged paint.
• Keep an eye out for chips of paint broken off on walls, moving furniture around can sometimes result in bumped walls causing gashes and chips to break off.
• Hanging shelves and frames on walls is a common way to spruce up a room, but putting screws into walls can pull dust from hidden layers beneath the surface paint. Be cautious of creating dust when hanging decor around the home.

How can you protect yourself and your family?

When exposure points are found, there are simple actions that can be taken to protect yourself and others. While some actions require a professional, there are things you can do yourself as well. Consider these actions where there are lead concerns:

• Always wipe down any dust from holes and other damage to paint with a wet rag or towel (disposable rags are best so you can throw them away when finished). NEVER use a duster or blow dust into the air, lead particles are very small and can be inhaled causing many health problems.
• Always wear a mask if you need to address a possible lead issue.
• Good ventilation is important.
• Paint over damaged spots to cover possible lead paint and reduce exposure. (Do NOT sand the area if you suspect lead).
• It is recommended that you don’t try to handle lead paint by yourself and always contact a professional.

Why is lead paint dangerous?

Lead paint has been found to significantly increase the risk of cancer but also has many other symptoms that can be caused by exposure.

5 signs to watch out for that may indicate lead is in your home:

• Your home was built before 1978
• Alligatoring paint – this is when you see paint cracking in a geometric like pattern (this is often seen on the outside of older homes due to moisture and light exposure).
• Chalking – You can see a chalk-like residue when wiping paint.
• Multiple sub-layers – Many painters will paint over old layers rather than removing them first so watch for chipping or pealing in your paint.
• Physical symptoms from exposure: some symptoms only appear when the body reaches a dangerous level of lead poisoning. If you notice these symptoms and think there might be lead exposure, be sure to seek medical help as soon as possible. Some symptoms include:
  • Fatigue
  • Abdominal pain
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Hearing loss
  • Seizures
  • High blood-pressure
  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Headaches
  • Memory and concentration problems
  • Mood disorders

If you think you might have lead in your home, it is always a good idea to get it tested.

Who can help with testing and fixing lead issues?

• If you are looking for lead testing, a quick online search for testing and consultations in your area will help you to find a contact.
  • For NH and surrounding areas, RPF Environmental offers many hazardous material tests including lead, mold, silica, and more.
• If you have a go-to contractor, likelihood is, they know how to work with possible lead exposure when working on projects in your home. Reach out and schedule a consultation when work is needed.

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Home improvement projects are a fantastic way to add value, comfort, and personal style to your home. With the abundance of DIY tutorials and the satisfaction that comes with completing a project yourself, it’s no wonder so many homeowners take the DIY route. However, some projects require more than just enthusiasm and a YouTube video. Knowing when to tackle a job yourself and when to call in the experts can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches.

Here’s a guide to help you decide which projects you can DIY and which ones are best left to professionals.

When to DIY

1. Painting and Wallpapering

– Why DIY? Painting is one of the most popular DIY projects because it’s relatively straightforward and can drastically change the look of a room. With the right tools and preparation, most homeowners can achieve a professional-looking finish.

– Tip: Take your time with prep work—cleaning surfaces, taping edges, and applying primer are key to a great paint job.

2. Basic Landscaping

– Why DIY? Planting flowers, laying mulch, and creating garden beds are tasks that many homeowners enjoy doing themselves. They’re manageable in scope and can be quite rewarding.

– Tip: Start small if you’re new to gardening. Focus on one area at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

3. Installing Shelving and Storage

– Why DIY? Installing shelves and organizing spaces are projects that often don’t require specialized skills. With a few basic tools, you can easily enhance your home’s storage capabilities.

– Tip: Use a stud finder and level to ensure your shelves are sturdy and straight.

4. Simple Home Repairs

– Why DIY? Fixing a leaky faucet, replacing a door handle, or patching small holes in drywall are tasks that most homeowners can handle with minimal tools and effort.

– Tip: Always follow safety guidelines and, when in doubt, look up a reliable tutorial or guide.

When to Call in the Experts

1. Electrical Work

– Why Hire a Pro? Electrical work is not only complex but also dangerous. Mistakes can lead to fires, injuries, or worse. Even something that seems simple, like installing a new light fixture, should be handled by a licensed electrician.

– Tip: Don’t take risks with electrical work. If you need new wiring, circuit breakers, or any electrical upgrades, it’s best to call a professional.

2. Plumbing Issues

– Why Hire a Pro? While fixing a minor leak is within reach for many homeowners, more significant plumbing issues like pipe installations, water heater repairs, or bathroom remodels require professional expertise. Incorrectly installed plumbing can cause extensive water damage and lead to costly repairs.

– Tip: For anything beyond a simple fix, such as replacing a faucet or unclogging a drain, it’s wise to consult a plumber.

3. Roof Repairs and Installation

– Why Hire a Pro? Working on your roof is dangerous and requires specialized knowledge. Whether it’s replacing shingles, fixing leaks, or installing a new roof, these tasks should always be left to experienced roofers. Incorrect roofing can lead to leaks, structural damage, and decreased home value.

– Tip: Roof work often requires permits and must adhere to local building codes, so professional involvement is crucial.

4. Structural Changes

– Why Hire a Pro? Knocking down walls or adding new rooms involves altering the structural integrity of your home. This type of work should always be done by professionals who understand load-bearing walls, building codes, and safety protocols.

– Tip: Always consult with a contractor or structural engineer before making any major changes to your home’s layout.

5. HVAC Installation and Repair

– Why Hire a Pro? Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are complex and require precise installation and repair work. Improper handling can lead to inefficiency, system breakdowns, or even health risks.

– Tip: Regular maintenance of your HVAC system should also be performed by a professional to ensure it runs efficiently and safely.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Balance

DIY projects can be incredibly rewarding, providing a sense of accomplishment and saving money in the process. However, it’s crucial to recognize the limits of your skills and when the risks outweigh the rewards. 

For projects that involve safety risks, require specialized knowledge, or have the potential to cause significant damage to your home, it’s always best to call in the experts. At Green Grampy’s Home and Office Solutions, we’re here to help with all your professional home improvement needs. Whether you’re unsure about taking on a project yourself or need expert assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Let us help you make your home improvement dreams a reality—safely and effectively.

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Summer in New Hampshire brings beautiful, sunny days, but it also means dealing with the heat and it seems that this year, the heat just doesn’t want to let up! At Green Grampy’s Home and Office Solutions, we understand the challenges homeowners face in keeping their homes cool and comfortable without breaking the bank. Here are some practical tips to help you stay cool and maintain your home during the summer months.

Cost-Saving Measures to Keep Your Home Cool

1. Optimize Your Air Conditioning:

• Regular Maintenance: Ensure your AC unit is running efficiently by scheduling regular maintenance checks. A well-maintained AC uses less energy and cools your home more effectively.
• Programmable Thermostat: Install a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature when you’re not home. Set it a few degrees higher when you’re away and lower it before you return to save on energy costs.
• Seal and Insulate: Check for gaps and cracks around windows and doors. Sealing these leaks prevents cool air from escaping and hot air from entering, making your AC work less hard.

2. Use Fans Wisely:

• Ceiling Fans: Use ceiling fans to circulate air. They can make a room feel cooler by creating a breeze, allowing you to set the thermostat a few degrees higher.
• Box and Oscillating Fans: Place box or oscillating fans in strategic locations to improve airflow. This can be especially helpful in rooms that don’t get much AC coverage.

3. Embrace Natural Ventilation:

• Nighttime Cooling: Take advantage of cooler nights by opening windows and using fans to pull in cool air. Close windows and blinds during the day to keep the heat out.
• Cross Ventilation: Open windows on opposite sides of your home to create a cross breeze. This helps move fresh air through your home and reduces the need for AC.

4. Shade and Reflect:

• Window Treatments: Use blinds, shades, or curtains to block out the sun during the hottest part of the day. Light-colored window coverings can reflect heat away from your home.
• Exterior Shading: Consider installing awnings, pergolas, or shade sails to block direct sunlight from hitting your windows and walls.

Maintenance Tips for the Summer Months

1. Roof Inspection:

• Summer is a great time to inspect your roof for any damage or wear. Look for missing or damaged shingles and check for signs of leaks. Addressing these issues early can prevent costly repairs later.

2. Clean and Maintain Gutters:

• Clear out any debris from your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and can create a breeding ground for pests.

3. Check Your Siding:

• Inspect your home’s siding for cracks, warping, or any signs of damage. Summer is an ideal time to repair or replace damaged siding to keep your home looking its best and to improve its energy efficiency.

4. Landscaping and Yard Maintenance:

• Trim back trees and shrubs to prevent overgrowth and ensure they don’t block airflow around your home. Mulching flower beds can help retain soil moisture and keep your plants healthy during the hot summer months.

5. Inspect Your Windows and Doors:

• Check the seals around your windows and doors for any gaps or damage. Re-caulk or replace weatherstripping as needed to maintain a tight seal and improve energy efficiency.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your home cool during the summer doesn’t have to be expensive. By implementing these cost-saving measures and staying on top of regular maintenance, you can enjoy a comfortable and energy-efficient home all season long. At Green Grampy’s Home and Office Solutions, we’re here to help with all your construction and home improvement needs. Contact us today for expert advice and quality services to keep your home in top shape.

Stay cool and enjoy your summer!

The post Beat the Summer Heat: Cost-Saving Tips and Maintenance Advice for Homeowners appeared first on The Green Grampy.

The first “go-to’s” people may come across when searching the internet for an answer; Some will say –

• “It could be insufficient preparation.” Don’t feel bad. Life is all about learning, right?
• “Maybe it’s poor adhesion due to dust” or mistakenly using acrylic latex paints over oil-based alkyds. “Be sure to read the entire label.”
• How about moisture, either soaking in from un caulked butted end seams and adjacent trim boards? Or maybe moisture trying to escape from inside? 
• Excessive build-up of coats? Least likely. After all, you have been trying to get the paint to stay put for longer that two years and you probably scrapped and sanded until you were certain that the primer will stick.

Before you spend any more time delving into the many choices in moisture meters or chasing down some missed caulking, stop and look at the old paint.

WAIT… Did you check the paint to see if it contains lead? First, please take the time and educate yourself of the dangers of lead paint by clicking here

Once you can confidently and safely begin the task of restoring your old siding and trim, take a piece of the peeling paint; turn it over and take a close look at  its back side.  Do you see the latest primer coat that you or someone else placed there? 

What else do you see? Wood fibers?

If so, you’ll have to ask yourself a question; Do I want to replace all this old siding and trim, or do I want to restore it, leaving the old character of the home secure?

There comes a time that wood becomes so dried out that it can no longer maintain the fibers that makes it up to be siding, or trim.

If you decide to replace the siding and trim with new, be sure to air seal and add insulation when possible. And for those who’d rather preserve the “old” look? Keep reading…

———————THE ANSWER———————-

Fortunately science and chemistry has made much progress in the paint industry. The solution to keep your paint on the wall is a product known as “wood hardener”.

There are a few companies you’ll find out there that are selling your solution in a bottle. Any will fit the bill, but some may blow the budget. Shop wisely my friend. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label of choice and once applied and dry, feel free to prime away with the knowledge that your paint will finally stay.

Let me know how it works for you and thank you for reading.

The post Having issues getting primer/paint to adhere to old wooden lap siding? appeared first on The Green Grampy.

I expect that you could find a lot of diagrams and photos on the internet listing out the proper names and locations of all of the flashings used and if your tackling a roof on your own, please do. However, I would like to focus on the elusive kick-out flashing.

Elusive, because many homes lack the protection this small item offers, and the results of this oversight can be detrimental to the integrity of your home. Just imagine rainwater flowing underneath your siding. Invisible right? Tucked away from view one might say, “out of sight, out of mind”.

Over the course of a few short years, the water flows unobserved each time it rains. This moisture becomes soaked up by the substrate and when enough time is allotted, decay of the house begins.

The wall sheathing begins decomposing allowing the moisture to travel deeper into your home. The studs begin to rot. The entire area becomes involved, spreading further outward and downward towards the foundation. And no one can tell that it is going on. Until you peel back the siding.

There have been too many cases that I have personally seen this ugly scenario and the cost to repair the damage caused by this lack of flashing can be wide ranging. The solution is simple. Be sure you have kick-out flashing properly installed on your home.

The next time that you clean your gutters, get new gutters, get a new roof, get new siding, be sure to have this little yet invaluable flashing securely in place. You will be glad to know that it is there for you.

Feel free to comment or reach out to me with any questions you may have on Kick-out flashing. I’ll be happy to help you where I can.

The post Remembering Kick-Out Flashing appeared first on The Green Grampy.

As a trusted New England forecast adviser, my Weather Rock has never, once, let me down.

I keep it right up front of the barn. Next to my truck. That way, when I head out in the morning it reminds me to remember things like, bring a sweater or don’t forget your umbrella. Not that I use an umbrella but I AM grateful for those days when I needed to be reminded of my sweater.

Now, as you’ve probably guessed, a weather rock comes in a variety of colors. The gray one depicted in this photo, besides being covered with a bunch of snow, is a popular one here in New Hampshire because the contrast with the snow color makes it highly visible to an onlooker. This enables them to be certain of ANY wintery weather event within minutes after its arrival.

In most cases, a nice piece of red sandstone will be enough to sound the alarm over a rain event in a similar way. You know what they say,

“It’s hard to NOT spot a wet chunk of red sandstone.”

I keep one inside the barn for the spring season. So not to wear it out.

Now another nice thing about my weather rock here, is that, in NH, we have this stuff called mica and it got all over and into the rocks. So now, when it’s dark out, the spot light sparkles off the mica turning this one into a flickering beacon. Lets folks know that it’s nighttime.

Now your probably asking; What weather rock would be best for me?

Sorry, you’ll have to figure that one out yourself. The internet has a lot of information pertaining to the weather rock.

Now to finish up, If your weather rock is covered in ice, you’d better throw a half dozen asphalt shingles in you trunk.   WHY?

Just in case the need arises and you could use some fresh tar laid down under your tires. Just remember, Keep the gritty side down and be safe out there.

The post Ah yes, the ol’ Weather Rock appeared first on The Green Grampy.

Air pathways transferring heat, out of your home, by means of convection are mostly responsible for creating these glistening, beautiful, yet damaging icons of winter.

This blog, however will discuss conduction: The transfer of heat by proximity when building materials, as well as other objects, are in contact with one another.

During conduction the heat passes from one object to another the same way as when you might warm your fingers by placing them under your armpits.

What is recommended is a “thermal break”. Whenever available to do so, place a layer of some form of insulating product between any two non-insulating products. i.e. between the roof sheathing and the roofing material, or between the ground and a concrete slab. Where ever outside temperature is connected to the inside temperature, a transference of thermal energy will exist.

This is where the benefit of using a thermal break arises; Your frosted fingers will pull more heat in if they are directly against skin. But, if you still have your coat on? Not so much conduction.

A more recent technique in building construction is the “cold roof”. You may have heard the term and maybe thought it sounded a bit too chilly for your comfort but in fact, a cold roof, installed correctly, should alleviate all chance of icicles falling from your roof and damaging life or property.

The suns UV rays may, also, in part, contribute to the thawing and freezing on roof tops however the larger icicle, the larger the heat loss.

Baby it’s cold outside, so button up where ever and whenever you can.

Click the “Contact Us” button in the menu for tips on how to keep more of the heat, you produce, inside of your home this winter. Your icicles may be talking to you right now.

What are your icicles telling YOU?

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…I can’t believe birds being that gullible, although I have seen first hand, the benefit of white/blue roofs versus the darker colors when near the seashore.

Not to get to far off track, but it’s done in an effort of deterring seagulls from dropping to crack shells on thus damaging a roof. These abundant shore birds have been known to mistake the light covered roof tops for water, and not wanting to loose their prize to the water’s depths, they will attempt to open their encased meal elsewhere. Now that’s “gull”able

Blue is a collection of shades. Just like white has over a thousand variations on it’s one place on the color palette, the blue-green that folks see on porches in the southern states has become more traditionally known as haint blue. Doors and porch floors were also painted with this point on the color spectrum. The best known use is to paint porch ceilings in an effort to deny evil spirits entrance to their home.

For the front entrance to our home, Mimi and I mixed a bunch of old paint together and came up with a color I feel best described as “Corpse Gray”. Let me know if your interested in hearing more about that.

So back to the question, why a blue porch ceiling? It could be for the birds; or maybe even the insects as this video suggests; It’s an entertaining six minute video for your enjoyment, of course with a shout out to the producers; and a special thanks to YouTube for supplying the platform.

The post But, why a BLUE porch ceiling? appeared first on The Green Grampy.