To size a sump pump, figure out how far it has to lift water (head height) and how fast water flows into your pit, then pick a pump whose flow rating at your head height beats that inflow with some room to spare. For most homes that ends up being a 1/3 or 1/2 HP...
Yes, you can usually reuse sump pump water on lawns, flower beds and for rinsing outdoor surfaces, but not on vegetables, for drinking, or for indoor cleaning. It’s untreated runoff that can carry bacteria, sediment and lawn chemicals, so keep it outside and away from anything people or pets eat. Last updated: November 2026 As...
Overgrown landscaping does more than look messy. Shrubs against the house trap moisture that rots trim and siding, dense growth shelters pests, dry debris adds fire risk, roots can lift walkways, and tall hedges create trip hazards and hiding spots near doors and windows. The fix is usually simple: clear 1 to 2 feet around...
✅ Selling Your Home in Shaker Heights? Here’s What You Need to Know About the Point-of-Sale Inspection If you’re planning to sell your home in Shaker Heights, Ohio, there’s one important step you can’t skip: the Point-of-Sale (POS) Inspection. It’s a city-mandated process that ensures your property meets health, safety, and maintenance standards before a...
Drafts can lead to higher energy bills, uncomfortable indoor temperatures, and increased wear on your HVAC system. Identifying and sealing these air leaks is a simple and cost-effective way to make your home more energy-efficient. Follow these steps to check your home for drafts and eliminate them for good. Why Checking for Drafts is Important...
Motion-activated lights are a simple and effective way to improve home security, save energy, and enhance outdoor aesthetics. For homeowners in Northeast Ohio, these lights are especially useful given the region’s changing seasons and varying weather conditions. This guide will walk you through selecting, installing, and maintaining motion-activated lights to ensure your home is both...
Winter brings cozy nights by the fire, but it also brings muddy boots, salty floors, and dust piling up while we stay indoors. While it may be tempting to put off cleaning when the weather outside is frightful, maintaining a clean home in the winter is essential for both comfort and health. With just a...
As 2025 approaches, maintaining your home becomes more important than ever, especially with the growing emphasis on sustainability, safety, and efficiency. Neglecting essential home maintenance tasks can result in costly repairs, reduced property value, and even safety hazards. Staying proactive with preventative home maintenance is the best way to ensure your property remains a safe...
Taking care of your home is more than just a responsibility—it’s a way to protect your biggest investment. Regular maintenance might feel like a hassle, but it’s significantly cheaper than paying for major repairs when things go wrong. Here are five key maintenance tasks every Highland Heights homeowner should prioritize to save money in the...
Why Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Matter According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), having functioning smoke alarms reduces the risk of dying in a home fire by 55%. Meanwhile, CO poisoning, often called the “silent killer,” results in over 400 deaths and 50,000 emergency room visits annually in the U.S. Both threats are...
