The right attic insulation can help retain cool air in the summer and prevent heat loss in the winter. There are many different kinds to choose from for your home.

R-Value

To find the right attic insulation, you should know the recommended R-value for your home. This is the material’s resistance to heat flow. The higher the value the better insulator it is. The R-value of your home can tell you what type of insulation you need. The attic’s R-value should be anywhere from 30 to 49. For example, if you pick insulation that has an R-value of three per inch and you want to have an R-value of 36 then you are going to need 12 inches of material.

Different Types of Insulation

Blanket insulation is one of the easiest ones to use and it’s available in mineral, plastic, fiberglass, or other natural fibers. This type of insulation is best for attics that have spaced joists and beams and not a lot of obstructions. To maintain R-value effectiveness, the rolls need to be trimmed in order to fit closely around the vents. Loose-fill insulation is ideal for attics that have a lot of obstructions or not a lot of headroom.

It can be blown over any existing insulation and is available in different materials, such as fiberglass. Cellulose is the most effective material with a higher R-value. You can spread this type of insulation manually or use a machine. While both blanket and loose-fill insulation can be put in by yourself, you want to work with a professional for the best results. Spray foam insulation isn’t a do-it-yourself project and can be more expensive, but it has one of the higher R-values. Both types of spray foam insulation are made with polyurethane to provide an effective air barrier and moisture barrier if needed.…

Living in our homes provides numerous benefits, on top of which include the flexibility to live as we please while also affording us the chance to be close to our loved ones. Unfortunately, not all senior residents will be able to enjoy these benefits, with some factors likely to increase your need to seek out a senior living community. Below, we discuss tell-tale signs that may indicate that it is time to move into a senior living community.

Chronic Loneliness

While most people are used to living alone, occasional loneliness will set in once in a while, with visits from family and friends likely to put this to rest. Chronic loneliness and isolation are, however, a cause of concern as this can lead to health issues such as heart disease and harmful behavior such as substance abuse. If you experience increased instances of loneliness, a senior living community like Cypress Cove will be your best choice, allowing you to surround yourself with new friends in your current phase of life.

Declined Health

As you age, you will likely need more help to monitor existing health conditions while also keeping track of risks such as falls. Failure to have experts close by could lead to increased risks of health deterioration, resulting in increased treatment costs over the long term. Senior living centers have medical experts trained to take care of diverse needs, allowing you to benefit from round-the-clock care.

Financial Mismanagement

If you find it hard to keep up with your bills and cannot efficiently track your finances, assisted living will be your best chance at avoiding any financial setbacks. Seniors who experience such challenges are likely to fall into scams more often than younger individuals, putting their hard-earned money at risk. Living in communities will be ideal in helping you minimize any financial mismanagement, with such centers often taking care of your shopping and transportation needs to help you have peace of mind.

Rather than wait for any of the above challenges to get in your way, consider moving into a senior living community for quality care.…

When disaster strikes your water system at home, you need a plumber and want one as soon as you can get one. At the same time, you have several questions running through your mind. Experts like those at Brinks Services will say it’s important to have all of those questions answered before you book the appointment.

When you are making those phone calls, follow this list of questions, and don’t book the plumber until you have them all answered to your satisfaction.

Are You Licensed and Insured?

In most states, plumbers are supposed to be licensed. Check with your state to see if your state requires a license. If it does, ask this question first. You are also in your right to ask to see the license before you book the plumber.

Other related questions include insurance. If there is a problem at home where your plumber has an accident, then you will be held liable and your insurance would cover the costs and damages. However, if they have a problem or cause a problem in your home, then their insurance will cover it.

You want to be sure they have insurance.

Request Experience and Testimonials

You may want to know if the plumber has a good reputation. You might already know that if they were referred to you. You may not have any idea yet. Ask your potential plumber how much experience they have. If they have been in business for several years, ask them for direction on their testimonials and reviews.

You can also look at their social media pages to see if they have any glowing reviews from past customers. If there are a number of bad reviews, it’s something to weigh before you make a decision.

Do You Offer Guarantees?

You want to know that the work is going to be professional. One way you can get that is through guarantees and warranties for parts. Ask potential plumbers what the level of guarantees are for their work, if any.

They may not have any. The quality of their answer will speak for itself.

Who is Doing the Work?

The plumber will be in your home or business which is an important asset to you. You want to know who is going to be there doing the work.

Many plumbers will be under a family name or named company. This could give you the impression that is the person who will be doing the work. It might not be that person though. Ask to make sure who will be in your home or business.

What is the Cost?

Cost is always a factor when you are getting something done. Find out the cost details. Is the plumber going to be charging by the job, by the hour, by the parts? By all of the above? Get an estimate about your estimate before you book the plumber.

Hire a Plumber

Experts like those at Brinks Services know how difficult it is to hire a plumber. When …