Concrete slab cracks can be minimized by following several guidelines. Install concrete that is the correct strength for the job it is to provide. Make sure that the ground beneath it is compacted well. Control joints should be placed in concrete slabs. Reinforcing steel, or rebar, can be added to help stop shrinkage cracks.
Roof leaks can happen in the center of a roof, but they usually don't. Roof leaks happen where the roof touches up against non-roofing materials such as walls or chimneys. Metal flashings protect water from leaking into these intersections. Caulk is not a replacement for these flashings.
Thick blacktop finish is not the answer to crack prevention. Cracks can be stopped before blacktop is applied. You need a well compacted dirt base and the right amount of gravel.
A retaining wall can be built out of loose stones, concrete block, poured concrete, wood, etc. To know how to build a retaining wall, you must first consider its height, drainage and the slope behind it. Consult a qualified engineer for help.
Stucco allows water absorption. Water rots sheathing. Masonry stain or penetrating finish helps stop water entry and still allows vapor release to the outside.
Concrete driveways are susceptible to damage from deicing salts and freezing temperatures. Ice crystals form in the cement and need a place to expand. Your concrete should have an additive mixed in to create air pockets for these ice crystals.
Asphalt shingles are very common in the Midwest. What happens when they fail? Problems can be caused through the location of nails, the sealing compound beneath the shingles, installing shingles in the cold and not using felt paper.
Garage door springs do most of the work of lifting your garage door. You, or your garage door opener give the springs the start they need to do the work. Garage door springs should never be adjusted by anyone other than a knowledgeable professional. Keep your door and springs in good working order.
For wood siding, there are four kinds of galvanized siding nails you can consider: mechanical plated, hot-galvanizing, electroplated and hot dipped. But near an ocean, the best exterior nail is stainless steel.
Cedar siding is a wonderful siding. Cedar siding stains are unwelcome guests. These are extractive bleeding stains caused by water leaking behind your siding and depositing natural chemicals. To prevent this, prime the wood with oil-based paint or special water-based primers that block the stains.
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