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premiumwoodfloors · 2 months ago

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Grinter Place State Historic Site

Grinter Place State Historic Site – A Gateway to Frontier Kansas City

A Historic Treasure in Kansas City, Kansas

Grinter Place sits atop a gentle hill overlooking the Kansas (Kaw) River, in the Muncie neighborhood of Kansas City, Kansas. Built in 1857, this two-story brick home is the oldest surviving house in Wyandotte County. Today, it's cared for by the Kansas Historical Society and offers a window into 19th-century frontier life.

Founders: Moses and Annie Grinter

Moses Grinter was among the first permanent white settlers here. In 1831, he began operating Grinter’s Ferry, which carried traders, soldiers, and settlers across the Kaw River on the old military road between Fort Leavenworth and Fort Scott.

His wife, Annie “Windagamen” Grinter, was half Lenape (Delaware) and farmed the land. She became a U.S. citizen after Kansas joined the Union — one of just 25 Delaware women to do so.

Together, they ran a trading post from 1855 to 1860 and maintained a farmland, orchard, and livestock operations.

A Crossroads of Change

The site lies near the old Delaware Crossing (also “Military Crossing” or “Secondine”) on the Kaw River. This ferry and crossing were key in connecting local tribes, traders, and migrants on their way west. During the Civil War era and afterward, expanding rail lines passed through the area .

From Family Home to Historic Site

The Grinter family owned the property until 1950, after which it became a chicken-dinner restaurant until the mid‑1960s.

The State of Kansas acquired it in 1971, and in January of that year it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Today, the site is open seasonally as the Grinter Place State Historic Site, showcasing period artifacts, guided tours, and occasional re-enactment events.

For more information, visit their website.

Plan Your Visit

Address: 1420 S 78th St, Kansas City, KS 66111

Phone: (913) 299‑0373

Hours: Typically open April–October, Wed–Sun 10 AM–5 PM; check ahead before visiting

Admission: Free

Why Visit?

Step back into frontier life, learning about early Kansas settlement and Native American heritage.

Explore the brick farmhouse, original ferry landing site, and trading post area.

Take part in living history events, like quilting bees and frontier crafts.

Enjoy the scenic riverside setting and glimpse important early transportation routes.

Take a break from history and immerse yourself in nature here.

Expert Wood Floor Refinishing – Shine Up Your Home

Bring your home’s charm to life just like Grinter Place does — but with stunning wood floors. Premium Wood Floors, based in Shawnee, KS, offers expert wood floor refinishing, sanding, staining, repair, and installation. Since 2007, we’ve delivered top-tier craftsmanship and customer satisfaction throughout the Kansas City area.

Why Choose Premium Wood Floors?

Skilled Professionals: Experienced artisans handling every detail.

Full-Service: From old floors restored to brand-new installs.

Trusted Quality: Known for honesty, care, and reliability .

Don’t settle for dull or worn wood floors — elevate your home’s beauty and durability.

Visit or call us to request your free estimate today!

Driving Directions: Grinter Place → Premium Wood Floors

Start: 1420 S 78th St, Kansas City, KS 66111 End: 5120 Garnett St, Shawnee, KS 66203

Head south on S 78th St toward Riverview Ave.

Turn right onto Kansas Ave

Merge onto I‑70 W / I‑670 W via ramp on left toward Topeka

Continue on I‑70 W, take exit 7B for US‑69 S / Metcalf Ave toward Overland Park / Olathe

Merge onto US‑69 S / Metcalf Ave

Exit at 75th St, turn right onto W 75th St

Turn left onto S Garnett St

Destination will be on your right

Estimated travel time: ~25 minutes (depending on traffic)

Enjoy stepping back in time at Grinter Place — and when you're home, bring your floors back to life with expert wood floor refinishing from Premium Wood Floors.

Premium Wood Floors 5120 Garnett St, Shawnee, KS 66203 (913) 713-5873

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teqcustoms · 3 months ago

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Enhance Your Toyota LC200 with Premium Window Vents – The Ultimate Upgrade for Off-Road Adventures

If you're serious about off-roading, camping, or overlanding in your Toyota Land Cruiser 200 Series, airflow and comfort matter—especially when you're spending extended hours in rugged terrain or parked at remote campsites. That's why TEQ Customs has developed the Toyota LC200 Window Vents, a must-have upgrade that combines style, function, and durability for all your outdoor missions.

Whether you're building out an overlanding rig or setting up for that next LX570 tuned camping trip, these window vents are the upgrade you didn’t know you needed—until now.

Product Information: Toyota LC200 Window Vents

Built specifically for the Toyota Land Cruiser 200 Series, these TEQ Customs Window Vents are precision-cut and designed to integrate seamlessly into your vehicle's rear windows. Crafted from high-grade laser-cut aluminum and finished with a black powder coat, these window vents strike the perfect balance between strength and stealth.

They allow for safe airflow when parked, prevent bugs from entering the cabin, and provide added privacy when you're camping out or sleeping inside the rig. This upgrade is designed to meet the needs of serious overlanders, weekend explorers, and remote workers who use their LC200 as a mobile base.

Why Choose This Product?

When you're investing in gear for your Toyota LC200, you want upgrades that are functional, durable, and purpose-built. Here's why TEQ Customs’ window vents stand out:

Perfect fit for LC200: Custom-cut to sit securely in the rear windows.

Off-road ready: Designed to hold up against dust, debris, and rain.

Practical for overlanding: Ventilation without sacrificing safety or inviting bugs in.

Sleek design: Powder-coated black aluminum that looks factory-grade.

Built for real conditions: Ideal for desert heat, forest humidity, and everything in between.

This product isn’t a gimmick. It’s a real solution for real adventures—especially for Land Cruiser owners who take the off-road lifestyle seriously.

Everything You Need for a Quick, Tool-Free Upgrade

With your purchase of the Toyota LC200 Window Vents, you’ll receive:

1 x Driver-side window vent

1 x Passenger-side window vent

Protective packaging

Installation instructions

No complicated install, no tools required—just slide into place and you’re good to go.

Built for Real-Life Adventures—Not Just Weekend Warriors

This isn’t just a product for hardcore overlanders. The Toyota LC200 Window Vents are made for anyone who uses their vehicle as more than a grocery-getter.

This includes:

Off-roaders who hit dusty trails and need fresh airflow without lowering windows

Campers who sleep in their rig and want overnight ventilation without bugs

Pet owners who leave their dog inside while stopping for supplies (with caution, of course)

Overlanders and van-lifers running LX570 tuned camping setups

Anyone who values privacy when parked or resting in their vehicle

If you use your LC200 like an adventure machine, you need gear that works with that lifestyle—not against it.

Key Features and Benefits

Let’s break down exactly why these window vents are a smart upgrade:

Precision Fit: Engineered specifically for the LC200 platform. No rattling, no guessing—just a snug, solid fit that looks OEM.

Durable Aluminum Construction: No flimsy plastic here. These vents are laser-cut from aluminum and powder-coated for long-lasting performance.

Safe Airflow: Get cross-breeze circulation when parked or sleeping inside your rig, without opening the full window or compromising security

Bug Protection: Fine mesh backing keeps out insects, dust, and debris—making it ideal for those muggy camp nights.

Added Privacy: From the outside, it’s hard to see inside—great for discreet parking in urban areas or campsites.

Heat Control: Improved ventilation means a cooler interior, even when the sun’s beating down on your parked Land Cruiser.

Who Gets the Most Out of These Window Vents? From Weekend Trips to Full-On Expeditions, Here’s Who This Upgrade Is Perfect For

If you're building out an LX570 tuned camping setup or just outfitting your Land Cruiser for adventure, these window vents offer real benefits for:

Weekend Warriors: Pack up and head out knowing you’ve got simple but powerful gear to improve your trip.

Daily Drivers Who Camp: You don’t have to convert your entire setup—this is a small change with a big payoff.

Expedition Rigs: Built to survive the worst trails and the longest hauls.

Dog Owners: Leave the windows cracked for your furry copilot—safely.

Overnight Travelers: Stay comfortable and private while sleeping inside your vehicle.

Unbox Quality: Here’s Exactly What You Get With Every Order

Every order includes:

Two aluminum vent inserts (driver + passenger side)

Protective packaging

Easy-to-follow instruction sheet

Sticker swag (because who doesn’t love repping a solid brand?)

No fuss. No flimsy parts. Just solid gear.

Why Choose TEQ Customs?

TEQ Customs is more than a parts supplier—they’re a trusted name in the Toyota 4x4 and off-road community. Located in Raleigh, NC, they specialize in Toyota-centric aftermarket parts, from interior mods to trail-tested upgrades.

Why thousands of Toyota owners choose TEQ Customs:

Toyota-specific gear: No guessing. Every product is engineered to match Toyota vehicles.

Community-first mindset: Built by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts.

Fast shipping and U.S. customer service: No delays, no overseas hassles.

Quality-first approach: Every part is tested and backed by real-world experience.

Off-road focused: Products that support real adventure—not just city driving.

Plus, they live and breathe this lifestyle. TEQ Customs doesn't sell gear they wouldn't run on their own rigs.

Call to Action: Ready to Upgrade?

If you’re ready to take your Land Cruiser’s comfort and capability to the next level, this is the place to start. TEQ Customs’ Toyota LC200 Window Vents are a simple upgrade with maximum impact.

Click here to order now Ships fast from North Carolina Got questions? TEQ’s team is just a message away

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a massive budget or a full rig build to improve your off-road game. Sometimes, it’s the smaller upgrades that make the biggest difference—and the Toyota LC200 Window Vents from TEQ Customs are proof.

Whether you're on a cross-country expedition or pulling up at your local trailhead for an overnight stay, better airflow, more privacy, and solid bug protection can make your trip smoother. Combine these vents with a few other mods and you’re on your way to building that LX570 tuned camping rig you’ve been dreaming about.

Smart, functional, and built to last—this is the kind of gear your Land Cruiser deserves.

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kchomesolutions · 4 months ago

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Top Reasons to Renovate Your Home for Comfort and Value

Thinking of a residential remodeling Leawood? No worries! You are at the right place. Home renovation is an essential part of owning a home. Whether you just bought a new house or have lived in the same one for years, updating your space can bring many benefits. Renovations can increase the value of your home, make it more comfortable, and improve how it works for your needs. Let's explore some key reasons why renovating your home is a great idea and how it can improve your life. Enhance Curb Appeal and Aesthetics: The appearance of your home creates a first impression on your guests. Renovating your home can give it a modern and fresh look. Simple changes like installing new windows, painting the exterior, or adding a front porch and landscaping can completely change its look. A nice-looking home stands out in the neighborhood and may even inspire others. It reflects your style and gives you a sense of pride and happiness. Increase Property Value: One significant reason for renovating a home is increasing its value. Updating the kitchen, improving the bathroom, or adding a new room makes your home look better and more attractive to buyers. These upgrades can increase your home's value, helping you sell it for a higher price in the future. You can even regain much of the money you spent on the renovations. Choose a bathroom remodeling Overland Park to update your home, making it more enjoyable and inviting for visitors. Cost Savings: Opting for a professional company to renovate your space helps you save money. Nowadays, people are more concerned about the environment; energy saving has become crucial for homeowners. Home renovation is a great way to make it more energy-efficient and save money over time. People upgrade appliances, add insulation, and replace old windows with new ones, help to use lower energy and reduce utility bills. However, trust professional remodeling contractors for such work. They have years of experience in the industry and provide beautiful, budget-friendly solutions to renovate your home. About KC Home Solutions: KC Home Solutions offers the best outdoor living construction Leawood. Its trained experts have years of experience in the industry. If you want a contractor for your residential remodelling project, look no further than KC Home Solution! It offers cost-effective services tailored to your needs. To get more information, visit https://kchomesolutions.com/ Original Source: https://bit.ly/41S1YIZ

#Outdoor Living Construction Leawood

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natalierobbinson50 · 5 months ago

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Do You Need Residential Window Tinting Services From Overland Park KS? Visit KC Window Film.

Need residential window tinting services in Overland Park, KS? Visit KC Window Film! They offer professional window tinting solutions to enhance privacy, reduce glare, and improve energy efficiency in your home. With a variety of high-quality films and expert installation, KC Window Film ensures you get the perfect tinting for your needs. Contact them today to explore your options and enjoy the benefits of superior window tinting services!

#ResidentialWindow-Tinting-Services-Overland-Park-KS

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allengregory · 8 months ago

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Elevate Your Home’s Curb Appeal with Professional Siding Installation in Overland Park

When it comes to enhancing the aesthetic appeal and durability of your home, siding installation is a critical component that can significantly impact both. In Overland Park, homeowners seeking to upgrade their property's exterior have a variety of options to consider for this important home improvement project. The right siding materials and professional installation can not only improve the visual allure of a residence but also bolster its protection against the elements.

Importance of Choosing the Right Siding for Your Home

The journey to a stunning home exterior begins with selecting the appropriate siding material. A variety of options exist, including vinyl, fiber cement, wood, and more, each offering unique benefits in terms of maintenance, durability, energy efficiency, and style. The right choice depends on your personal aesthetic preferences, the climate in Overland Park, and your home's architectural design.

Expertise in Siding & Windows Integration

A crucial aspect of siding installation is ensuring that it seamlessly integrates with existing windows and openings. Properly executed integration contributes to enhanced insulation, moisture prevention, and overall structural integrity. Professionals skilled in both siding and window services are vital for this intricate process as they possess the knowledge needed to ensure all components work together harmoniously.

Expanding Living Spaces with Dormers & Additions

For those contemplating expanding their living space while undergoing siding projects, incorporating dormers or additions during the renovation can be an efficient approach. It allows homeowners to address multiple improvements simultaneously while ensuring that new structures match the existing exterior aesthetics. This strategic planning results in a cohesive appearance and potentially increases property value.

Enhancing Outdoor Living Areas

Enhancing outdoor living spaces is another service often coupled with siding installations. Whether you're considering stamped concrete patios or outdoor kitchen areas, these features complement new siding by elevating your home's overall charm and functionality. With attention to detail and a comprehensive approach towards exterior remodeling, professionals can transform both your home’s facade and outdoor entertainment spaces.

The Benefits of Epoxy Concrete Coatings

Epoxy concrete coatings are an excellent addition for homeowners looking for durable and stylish flooring options for garages or basements – areas that sometimes get overlooked during renovations. These coatings provide a sleek finish resistant to stains and damage from heavy foot traffic or vehicles.

Building Your Dream Home with New Construction Services

For those venturing into new construction rather than upgrading an existing structure, professional services extend beyond mere renovations. They encompass designing personalized homes from scratch where every detail aligns with the homeowner’s vision – from foundation to roofing and everything in between.

Siding installation is just one component within a comprehensive suite of services provided by contractors who recognize that every aspect of a house—from kitchen remodels to bathroom updates—plays a part in creating the perfect abode for their clients around Overland Park.

In conclusion: choosing professional siding installation in Overland Park ensures not only an immediate enhancement in curb appeal but also long-term satisfaction through quality workmanship across various facets of home improvement projects. With expertise spanning new constructions to detailed additions like epoxy floorings or stamped concrete features; knowledgeable contractors offer holistic solutions tailored precisely for rejuvenating any residence into the dream home every homeowner desires.

REconstruct Address: 8206 Antioch Rd, Overland Park, Kansas, 66204, US Phone: 913-393-9203

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cornerstonetintks · 3 years ago

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Cornerstone Tint & Paint Protection offers a range of services to protect your car’s paint job. From the installation of paint protection film to the application of ceramic coating, our team of experts will ensure that your vehicle looks its best for years to come. We are proud to be the leading provider of paint protection film in Kansas City and have been serving customers for over many years.

Cornerstone Tint & Paint Protection 6420 W 110th St #100, Overland Park, KS 66211 (913) 481–7392

Official Website: https://cornerstonetint.com/ Google Plus Listing: https://maps.google.com/?cid=7973614152239479393

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CAR WINDOW TINTING PAINT PROTECTION FILM CERAMIC COATING TESLA COMMERCIAL TINT RESIDENTIAL TINT DECORATIVE FILM VEHICLE GRAPHICS FINANCING

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#paint protection film kansas city #car ceramic coating #Youtube

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niruschkina-blog · 6 years ago

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Find and Compare Photo Editing Software for Windows to Edit Your Pictures

Photo editing software download the easy to use photo editor The helpful Windows tool was designed specifically for all users who attach great importance to a good photo editing software, which is currently very intuitive to use, but also represents many functions especially for experienced users the ideal solution. The great expediency is the particularly clear menu of the photo editing software. Therefore, the software, which is not freeware is just as suitable for beginners, but also for experienced users who want to edit images. Take advantage of the effects of photo editing software by editing your images. Because of these photo errors made recordings therefore often blurred as well as in a way not perfect enough succeeded. Editing photos refers to the computer-aided modification of photographs or digital images. The tasks to edit recordings are quite far-reaching and mostly problematic only due to the lack of knowledge of the editor. The necessary photo editing software to eliminate these recording errors is relatively inexpensive to obtain, so this way a photo editing is very common. Sometimes digital computer-assisted image processing is used to eradicate vulnerabilities in a photograph that are common in photography. Another area of application for photo editing is the artistic modification of a photo. These include photo effects such as inserting clipart, writing texts into a picture, sharpening a picture or The handy picture program designed for inexperienced users and professionals has features such as picture editing or photos red-eye effect. Beautify. Existing usual photo types to edit images are JPG and TIFF, for example. These include errors such as underexposure and contrast weakness and so on. There are plenty of Windows Photo Editing software on the market that blurs images and softens photos. Often you come across these applications on the Internet portals of personal computer magazines. Looking for a program to edit an image, the free download of freeware or shareware is recommended. Thus, in advance, all existing image effects can be checked prior to purchase. Before buying, consider whether you need professional software or are satisfied with the basic features of photo editing and value easy-to-use software. Do you value effects such as changing the image or sharpening the photo? With us you can download the program http://www.mediakg.com/products/m_en_fotoworksxl.html and try it indefinitely. The app is usable as an image editor for Windows 8 download free, program for graphics edit, photo collage editor as well as to edit his own photo.

Photo Editing Software Download the Good Photo Editor

To spice up and enhance your photos, you can download the photo editing software for free on the Internet. Quite for you. With a few photo editing software that are available on the web, you can make your recordings without enormous effort. Rotate photos to the right and edit them easily. Feasible with the photo editing software. Furthermore, there is news to the point program to edit images, edit an image and also edit programs for image. Grace comes from Overland Park, at the age of 48, would enjoy some richly adventurous photo editing software on the Internet. She has been pondering for some time, what exactly do you get from the fortunately very normal reward for all the really exciting photo editing software online. For this reason, she researches for advice on what she could order really great photo editing software. On the other hand, she does not dare to commit herself to the bottom line, which she finally wants. Meanwhile, while mountain biking outside, you come across some magical things. With this innovative program for image processing, it is possible for beginners, but also photographers without problems to make your unique photographs look optimal. Completely the software, which one can download for free, by many functions as for example the photo print out as well as the use imaginative photo albums to design. You have a camera and have already taken many shots of a trip and now would like to quickly and easily edit any amount of your photos or to change original? In our offer there is the right and easy-to-understand image program for this purpose. Her grandmother has a lot of useful suggestions and advises her on the decision. Are you interested in how you can best edit, for example, color errors in a photo and then create a photo montage from your pictures? With the help of powerful photo editing software, an intuitive beauty retouching is extremely easy! In addition, numerous great image editing effects are included in the tool, such as brighten the photo, fish-eye image, sharpen the photo and swirl photos. When she finally realizes what she really intends to order, she surfs and finally orders this very great product. On this page you can download and test the photo editing software for free. Popular common image types to edit a photo are, for example, JPEG, GIF, TIFF or PNG, but also many other image formats. This also includes distortions and disturbing objects in the image and so on. These include photographic effects such as clip art, deforming a photo, sharpening the image, and another potential application for image editing is the stylish transformation of an image. Zoom out. The special software to fix this flaw is very cheap, so this way of photo editing is very popular.

Photo Editing Software for Windows and Simple to Use Photo Editor

When choosing a suitable software, it is advisable to decide for the exact area of application and to consider which functions you need exactly. In this way, all possible photo effects can be checked before buying. Are you looking for a compact and simple photo editing software with the usual image editing functions or do you need a professional program that you have to work into forever? The practical, lightweight photo editing software especially for inexperienced users and photographers has effects such as create photo collage or photo motion effect. Incredibly many of these apps have individual, refined photo editing features that are detailed in functionality, others are confusing or unfamiliar to use. If one rummages on the Internet for a software for photo editing worth the installation of free software. With this photo editing software beginners and professionals succeed without any problems perfect to make your photos look optimal. You take pictures passionately and have shot many unique pictures of your family celebration and would like to easily optimize and retouch all your photographs? In our offer we offer the right and easy-to-understand photo editing software for this. Here are a few examples of image effects: Darken Photo or Picture Fun Effect? Assess yourself and take a closer look at our Windows program. The application can be used as an image editor for Windows 8, software for image editing, photo editing software or as well as for editing your photos. You can download and test this. Usually these programs are discovered because they are on a CD-ROM of PC magazines. The program, which can be downloaded for free, becomes exemplary due to many practical features such as the photo printing studio or the use of imaginative photo albums. You are concerned with, for example, how you can hide color errors in your pictures and then create a photo montage from your pictures? With the simple photo editing software is a complete photo enhancement without problems feasible! In addition, a lot of beautiful image effects are integrated in the tool, such as labeling a photo, correcting the contrast in a photo, shadows and images blurring. Here you can download and test the photo editing software for free.

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precisionkc · 1 year ago

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Window Installation in Overland Park: Enhancing Your Home with Replacement Windows in Lee’s Summit

If you’re upgrading your home’s exterior or renovating its interior, replacing old or damaged windows can improve curb appeal, increase energy efficiency, and enhance overall comfort. In this article, we’ll explore the process of window installation in Overland Park and the benefits of replacement windows in Lee’s Summit, highlighting the importance of these upgrades for homeowners in both areas. To Know more visit our website.

#Window Installation Overland Park #Replacement Windows Lees Summit

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dillonsheatingcooling · 4 years ago

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Signs Your AC is About to Break or Needs Maintenance

We often take our heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems for granted until they stop cooling or heating our homes.

It can be hard to tell whether or not your HVAC is working to its best ability, but there are a few signs that can indicate your HVAC system is starting to wear down.

Learning these signs is crucial to saving money on costly repairs.

With the help of a professional HVAC technician from ,Dillon's Heating and Cooling, you can get ahead of major repairs or early replacement by paying attention to the signs that your HVAC system is breaking down.

We have compiled 6 signs that can mean that your HVAC system or air conditioner is about to break or needs replacing.

6 Signs Your AC is About to Break or Needs Maintenance

1. Your Air Conditioner is Blowing Hot Air

Your air conditioner is designed to blow cool air into your home when the temperature inside the home reaches a certain point.

If your AC is not blowing cool air, this could indicate a problem.

Perhaps you have wondered why your indoor temperature is not improving only to check the vents and find that they are blowing hot air.

This can be a sign that your air conditioning unit has a ,refrigerant leak or a broken compressor.

Both problems are fixable if not left too long. If you notice hot air blowing from your vents and your air conditioner is on, has been on for a while, and is set to a cooler temperature, call your professional HVAC technician to assess the situation and repair the problem.

2. Condensation or Leaks Around Your Air Conditioning Unit

Once you see a leak or condensation that has gathered near your AC unit, it is a sign that your system needs repair.

A leak or excess water around your AC unit could be due to something relatively simple to fix, like a blocked drain tube.

Even if it is a minor problem, resolving the issue will prevent mold from forming, which is a common side effect to pooled or gathering liquids.

On the other hand, you may have a refrigerant leak. Calling Dillon's Heating and Cooling to have a technician assess and address your issue will remedy this in either scenario.

3. Strange Smells

Sometimes strange smells can be bothersome. However, other times they can be indicators of AC malfunction or problems in the future:

If your vents are emitting a strong burning smell, you may have an issue with the electrical components of your HVAC system.

A sulphuric smell could mean a gas leak, which is hazardous, and you should evacuate your house until the leak is cleared by emergency services.

A musty smell can signify mold somewhere in your HVAC system, especially around your air conditioner's evaporator coils. Mold can jeopardize the health of your family, especially those with asthma or other upper respiratory concerns.

A professional HVAC technician can locate the source of the smell and repair the problem before causing any more issues for you or your family.

4. Loud or Unusual Noises from the Units

Your HVAC system should be relatively quiet. When your air conditioning unit cycles, you will hear it turn on and off, and you should hear a hum from your heating system as well.

There should be no loud sounds that come from your HVAC system, such as squealing, banging, grinding, or other similar noises.

These noises can be extremely bothersome. In your home, they may keep you up at night or wake your children and pets.

Businesses also do not want a bothersome noise either as it can keep your customers away or distract your employees.

Once you hear a noise coming from your HVAC system, it is imperative that you call Dillon's Heating and Cooling right away. A technician can determine the cause of the abnormal noises and make repairs.

5. High Humidity

Your air conditioner uses humidity from the air to cool your home. If your air conditioning unit is not working at its best, it may not be pulling the moistness from the indoor air.

If this happens, you will start to notice humidity in your home, such as damp clothing or furniture, and you may see water pooling around the windows.

High humidity can actually be distracting. It might damage items in the space by pooling water or getting things wet that shouldn’t be. It might also be uncomfortable.

If this is the case in your home, you will notice the discomfort quickly. In a business, you want to eliminate the humidity to keep operations running smoothly and customers happy.

An HVAC technician will be able to identify whether or not you have an issue, and if so, the cause of the humidity increase.

6. Higher Utility Bills

Utility bills that increase and decrease with weather changes are to be expected.

However, considerable increases in utility bills are a cause for concern, especially if there is no explanation for them (like a recently installed swimming pool or dehumidifier).

An increase in your utility bills sometimes means that your HVAC system is not as efficient as it once was, which means it expends more energy to heat or cool the air.

Once your HVAC system components age, their levels of efficiency drop. This can be extremely troubling to deal with, especially if you are trying to save money.

Know that while servicing your AC unit will be an added expense, it will save you money on your utility bill in the long run.

Dillon's Heating and Cooling of Kansas City and Area

Is your HVAC system aging? Or are you experiencing any of the above symptoms with your HVAC components?

We are here to help.

Serving Kansas City, Lenexa, and Overland Park and area, Dillon's Heating and Cooling has the expertise and affordable repair options to help your heating and cooling systems return to an efficient state, leaving you and your home or business feeling comfortable.

Are you looking for a way to ensure that your HVAC system gets regular care?

Dillon's Heating and Cooling offers ,Maintenance Agreement Plans that provide thorough semi-annual tests and maintenance for your HVAC system.

Call Dillon's today to learn more about what we can do for your HVAC system.

Rationale

There are a few signs to watch for that indicate your HVAC system is starting to wear down.

If you notice your AC unit blowing hot air, this could be an indicator that there is a ,refrigerant leak or a broken compressor.

Condensation or strange smells could mean that there is mold growing around your evaporator coils.

If your AC unit makes loud noises or emits other strange smells, then be sure to get it serviced.

Finally, you may notice a higher level of humidity in your space or higher utility bills. These are indicators that something isn’t right.

Call Dillon's Heating and Cooling and a technician will come out and assess your AC unit and address the issue.

Call Dillon's today to learn more about what we can do for your HVAC system.

Dillon’s Heating and Cooling

12651 W 80th St, Lenexa, KS 66215

(913) 214-8045

https://ift.tt/2XoRrqj

from Dillon's Heating & Cooling https://ift.tt/3C7yWFx

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kchomesolutions · 4 months ago

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5 Ways to Brighten Up Your Underused Basement Space

Basements are an underused place. They are often dark, damp, and uninviting. However, the perfect professional basement finishing Leawood helps transform it into a functional space. Here are a few ways to brighten up your basement space. Maximize natural light The best way to brighten a basement is maximizing natural light. Clean the windows regularly and install larger windows for better lighting. Further, you can add window wells to allow more sunlight in. Add light tubes, bulbs, or skylights for brightness in a windowless basement. Lighter windows help make the basement feel spacious and let fresh air in. Use light colors for flooring and walls Lighter colors reflect more light and make the basement feel open and spacious. Choose colors like whites, pastels, or light grays for your walls. Further, opt for light wood, beige, or whitewashed tiles for flooring. The light hues transform your dark and drab basement into a fab and cheerful space. Accessorize the room with bold-colored accessories like rugs and furniture for a bold look. Hire the best home remodeling companies Overland Park for professional help. Layer the lighting Basements lack proper lighting. Adding various lighting helps create a well-lit space. Use a mix of ambient and accent lighting to add warmth to the place. You can get this lighting from overhead fixtures or recessed lights. Floor lamps and wall sconces are best for accent lighting in certain basement areas. In addition, LED lights should be added for extra brightness and energy-efficient lighting without overwhelming the basement area. Add reflective surfaces Incorporate reflective surfaces or mirrors in your basement remodel to bounce light across the room. It also makes the space look more spacious and illuminated. Further, add mirrors, metallic accents, and glossy finishes to the basement furniture and décor. In addition, a mirror strategically amplifies the natural light or overhead fixtures and further brightens the room. Keep the space clutter-free A cluttered basement feels darker and chaotic in ample lighting. Hence, focus on organizing the space for better lighting and brightness. Try using aesthetic storage options like cabinets, baskets, or shelves to store the items. A tidy space with bright colors and good lighting is perfect for attaining an open and inviting basement. About KC Home Solutions: KC Home Solution offers the best kitchen remodeling Leawood services. It combines materials, project design, and construction teams for a seamless remodeling process. This company has the best decorators, builders, and designers to help you remodel your home. To get more details, visit https://kchomesolutions.com/ Original Source: https://bit.ly/4ljc0L1

#Basement Finishing Leawood

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natalierobbinson50 · 1 year ago

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Are You Looking for a Commercial Roofing Company in Overland Park KS? Contact CRI Renovations LLC

The CRI Renovations LLC crews are trained for commercial roofing repairs and replacement. Regardless of the type of roofing system currently on your industrial or commercial building, they will ensure that your structure is protected for years to come.

#Commercial-Roofing-Company-Overland-Park-KS

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peterblairca · 5 years ago

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Condos for Sale in Calgary: Big Tips for First Time Buyers! Part 1

Calgary Condos: What to Know Before Buying – Part 1

In our decades of experience, the good agents here at Elite Home Real Estate have learned that summer is the #1 season for first time buyers. In fact, the number of first-timers that we help is consistently the highest during this season than any other time of the year… And for a whole lot of first time buyers, condos are the property type of choice.

Thing is, we’ve also learned that very few buyers – first timers or not – are 100% aware of the many ways in which owning a condo differs from owning a house or even a townhouse. It’s with this in mind that we write this blog series, “Calgary Condos: What to Know Before Buying”… Because a little bit of extra knowledge goes a long way!

The Benefits of Condo Living

Condos make a truly great home for many different reasons – from having your sidewalks shoveled for you to indoor parking, to low maintenance costs and property taxes – condominiums have become the property type of choice for an increasing number of homebuyers.

For a lot of first time buyers, these above factors are very attractive selling points! After all, the idea of property maintenance, taxes, home improvements, and utilities can be pretty intimidating for someone who has never owned their own home before (and sometimes, even if they have).

On the flip side, homeowners who are looking to downsize are also attracted to condo ownership for the very same reasons. After years of shoveling snow, cutting grass, taxes, endless property repairs and upgrades, and having to deal with your own plumbing and furnace emergencies, all these long-time homeowners want is someone to deal with this for them! (And, really, who can blame them?)

But owning a condo is not like owning a house or even a townhouse. In many ways, the responsibilities and duties of a condominium owner are much easier. In other ways, however, the obligations of condo ownership are more complex.

From the state and status of the condo building itself to the details of living in and insuring it, there are a number of things to consider when you look at buying a condo in Calgary.

Value vs. Workmanship

In Calgary’s last big boom, we saw the construction of literally thousands of new condos in Calgary These condos were built in a comparatively short span of time and sometimes by contractors who were stretched to provide the resources needed to accommodate all the building projects they were working on.

Ten years and many building code amendments later, many (but certainly not all) of these boom condo buildings are in need of upgrades and repairs. They’re still 100% habitable and have retained impressively strong property value, but their management companies and governance boards are now sending out special assessments. As a result, these condo unit owners are beginning to realize these additional costs.

This is why we always make sure our clients understand the difference and connection between value and workmanship.

Several months ago, we did about a blog post about a young couple that bought a home with some serious structural issues. In it, we emphasized the need for accurate and current home inspection reports. This same advice bears repeating here – but with a condo, you will want to have 2 types of thorough inspections:

A certified, professional home inspection • A thorough inspection of the condo documents

This is because unlike a home inspection of a house or townhouse, condo inspections only cover elements specific to the condo unit itself. These are unit-specific elements such as windows, appliances, cabinetry, fire and CO2 detectors, etc.

“Common elements” – like the plumbing, roofing, and electrical systems – are outside of a condo inspection’s scope and therefore cannot be included in a condo home inspection report.

This is why it’s crucial you have a trained eye review the condo documents. It’s in these documents that you’ll get a fuller story because they will reveal any problems or potential problems relating to the bigger picture and long-term issues.

A Bit More About Condo Documents…

These documents give you critical information on the condo’s overall status. This includes pertinent information on the building, the board’s financial resources, special assessments, insurance claims, condo fees, any legal actions taken against the condo’s builders or its board, and how the condo building is and has been managed.

Condominium documents also include the meeting minutes of the condo board, which is a great place to learn about potential issues that may be creeping up to cause serious headaches in the future.

Condo documents must be supplied to condo owners, potential owners, and their respective mortgage providers within 10 days of receiving a written request for them. You can find out more about condo documents from this incredibly handy Service Alberta info sheet.

Geographic Considerations (Prime Example: Floods)

Almost any Canadian who was around in 2013 will remember the devastating, overwhelming floods Calgarians endured that summer.

And while floods like that were previously considered a rare occurrence, the Government of Alberta itself has acknowledged that climate change will “result in long-term changes in temperature and precipitation, as well as increased frequency and severity of weather events such as droughts, floods, forest fires, and severe storms.”

With this in mind, reviewing flood maps and available flood insurance policies is a very wise idea for anyone who is considering condo ownership – especially near Calgary’s two rivers and inner city.

Don’t get us wrong here; we’re not trying to dissuade anyone from investing in a condo in these beautiful and established Calgary neighbourhoods! We are, however, pointing out that there are some unique considerations to keep in mind – regardless of where you want to purchase a condo.

As for floods, the vast majority of condo buildings will have water damage insurance that includes storm sewer back ups. This is important to know about because hundreds of buildings that were not directly affected by the flooding rivers in 2013 still suffered serious damage from over-flowing sewers, drains, and other infrastructure-related flooding damage.

However, if you are thinking of buying a condo near Calgary’s flood zone or flood fringe zone, then be sure to find out if the condo building has overland flood insurance (this information can also be found in the condo documents).

If and/or when the next big flood hits, you’ll be glad to know that you’re properly covered!

Insurance

Flooding and water damage insurance aside, owners of a condo unit will require a unique form of insurance known as “condo insurance”.

What a great many condo owners don’t realize (until they’re in the thick of it) is that condo insurance policies are very unique creatures in the property insurance world.

A condo insurance policy can be a confusing document to understand. That’s because a condo insurance policy needs to balance and complement the insurance that exists for the rest of the building with the coverage needs of your specific condo unit.

A prime example of this is a fire. If there was a fire in your condo, the condo building’s insurance would only cover the damage of the walls and ceiling outwards – so your carpets, fixtures, appliances, and furniture would be covered by a condo owner’s individual condo insurance policy.

Can Ya’ Do a Condo?

As you can see, there are some important things to think about when it comes to buying a condo in Calgary. What we’ve listed above are just 4 of the bigger considerations that potential condo owners need to be aware of.

There is definitely much more food for thought when it comes to being a condo owner, but luckily Elite Home Real Estate has some of the very best condo buying specialists in the province!

Stay tuned for our next installment of “Calgary Condos: What to Know Before Buying” where we’ll share more tips and helpful factoids about buying a condo in Calgary.

Want to know more, or maybe you have some condo questions that need answering? Then get in touch! We absolutely know our stuff when it comes to Calgary real estate and Calgary condos – and are always happy to help.

The post Condos for Sale in Calgary: Big Tips for First Time Buyers! – Part 1 appeared first on Calgary Real Estate.

Via https://www.elitehomerealestate.com/condos-for-sale-in-calgary-big-tips-for-first-time-buyers/

source https://elitehomerealestate.weebly.com/blog/condos-for-sale-in-calgary-big-tips-for-first-time-buyers-part-1

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precisionkc · 2 years ago

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Window Installation in Kansas City, MO, and Overland Park: Enhancing Your Home with Precision and Expertise

Elevate your home window installation services in Kansas City, MO, and Overland Park with our expert . We bring precision and expertise to every project, ensuring a seamless transformation for your space. Our skilled professionals prioritize quality craftsmanship, enhancing both the aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency of your home. To Know more visit our website.

#Window Replacement Kansas City Mo #window installation overland park

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elitehomerealestate · 5 years ago

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Condos for Sale in Calgary: Big Tips for First Time Buyers! – Part 1

Calgary Condos: What to Know Before Buying – Part 1

The Benefits of Condo Living

From the state and status of the condo building itself to the details of living in and insuring it, there are a number of things to consider when you look at buying a condo in Calgary.

Value vs. Workmanship

This is why we always make sure our clients understand the difference and connection between value and workmanship.

A certified, professional home inspection • A thorough inspection of the condo documents

“Common elements” – like the plumbing, roofing, and electrical systems – are outside of a condo inspection’s scope and therefore cannot be included in a condo home inspection report.

A Bit More About Condo Documents…

Condominium documents also include the meeting minutes of the condo board, which is a great place to learn about potential issues that may be creeping up to cause serious headaches in the future.

Geographic Considerations (Prime Example: Floods)

Almost any Canadian who was around in 2013 will remember the devastating, overwhelming floods Calgarians endured that summer.

If and/or when the next big flood hits, you’ll be glad to know that you’re properly covered!

Insurance

Flooding and water damage insurance aside, owners of a condo unit will require a unique form of insurance known as “condo insurance”.

What a great many condo owners don’t realize (until they’re in the thick of it) is that condo insurance policies are very unique creatures in the property insurance world.

Can Ya’ Do a Condo?

There is definitely much more food for thought when it comes to being a condo owner, but luckily Elite Home Real Estate has some of the very best condo buying specialists in the province!

Stay tuned for our next installment of “Calgary Condos: What to Know Before Buying” where we’ll share more tips and helpful factoids about buying a condo in Calgary.

The post Condos for Sale in Calgary: Big Tips for First Time Buyers! – Part 1 appeared first on Calgary Real Estate.

source https://www.elitehomerealestate.com/condos-for-sale-in-calgary-big-tips-for-first-time-buyers/

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frankkjonestx · 5 years ago

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How to protect your home from disasters amplified by climate change

A decade ago, climate change projections pointed to a distant future, 50 or 100 years down the road. But with each storm and fire season seemingly more ferocious than the last, it’s clear we’re already facing the impacts of climate change: Sea levels are rising, and storms, wildfires and droughts are intensifying, fueled by warmer oceans and a warmer atmosphere.

In the coming decades, regions of the United States will be affected in different ways by flooding, severe storms, droughts and wildfires. Millions may be forced from their homes. But what about the people who choose to stay? What can they do to harden their homes, to improve the chance the structure will stand up against water and fire? How can people help their communities adapt to the everyday realities of climate change?

Predictive flood maps

Flooding is already the most common natural disaster in the United States, occurring in every state and killing more people each year than hurricanes, tornadoes or lightning. As warming drives sea levels higher, intensifies hurricanes and fuels more heavy rain events, more U.S. residents should expect to deal with flooding (SN: 8/17/19, p. 16), even at inland locations that have not flooded historically, says Glenn McGillivray, managing director of the Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction in Toronto. Climate models predict more extreme rainfall events over the next 80 years, across both wet and dry regions, according to a 2016 report in Nature Climate Change.

“There’s a perception that your house will only flood if you live on the coast or right next to a big river. But some of the most destructive flooding events have occurred from heavy rainfall, which can happen anywhere,” McGillivray says. “Pretty much everybody is at risk of overland flooding, but most people have no clue what their level of risk really is.”

Flood risk for U.S. homeowners has traditionally been calculated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency as part of the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA software lumps properties into three categories: inside a 100-year floodplain (an area with at least a 1 percent chance of flooding in a given year) or outside the floodplain in areas of moderate or minimal risk. A 2018 study in Environmental Research Letters found that FEMA’s maps are outdated and underestimate the flood risk for over 28 million Americans.

“FEMA’s maps create an illusion of safety for people outside the 100-year floodplain,” says Sharai Lewis-Gruss, lead adaptation specialist for the First Street Foundation, a nonprofit in Brooklyn, N.Y.

“The maps are also historical — they only draw data from past flooding events,” she says. And the databases are sometimes decades old. The maps don’t account for projections of sea level rise, more intense hurricanes or increased rainfall.

To help people better understand their flood risk, in June the First Street Foundation plans to release Flood Factor, a mapping program that the organization says will “calculate the past, current and future flood risk of every property in America.”

Flood Factor’s National Flood Model, created through a collaboration of over 70 experts, will consider impacts from sea level rise and tidal flooding, hurricane and storm flooding, as well as flooding from swollen rivers and heavy rainfall events, Lewis-Gruss says. By applying various flood hazard scenarios, such as a Category 3 hurricane or 20 centimeters of rainfall, to specific properties and buildings, the model can calculate the historic and future impacts of floodwater for most, over 155 million, U.S. properties.

Residents will be able to plug a street address into the website and get a detailed report with color-coded maps showing the impact from past flooding events, the likelihood of future flooding scenarios, as well as a Flood Factor risk score from 1 (low) to 10 (extreme). The aim is to create “a personalized narrative for how flooding could affect your property this year, in five years and in 30 years,” Lewis-Gruss says.

Ready for the flood

After assessing your property’s flood risk, the next step to prepare for flooding is to buy flood insurance, says Melissa Roberts, executive director of the American Flood Coalition, a nonprofit advocacy group in Washington, D.C. Flood damage is not usually covered by homeowners insurance, and federal law requires only people living inside 100-year floodplains to buy supplemental flood insurance.

“But we’re seeing more flooding events outside of that zone, often from heavy rainfall,” Roberts says. The American Flood Coalition “now recommends that everybody get flood insurance. The good news is, if you live outside that 100-year flood zone, it’s often pretty affordable.”

Homeowners who take steps to physically protect their homes from flooding may get discounts on flood insurance premiums. Flood-control strategies can range from temporary measures that cost hundreds of dollars to pricier home redesigns. Not every homeowner needs to brace for historic hurricanes, but even heavy rain can do a lot of damage if water finds a way inside, Roberts says.

For people in need of quick, lower-cost options to keep the water out, several companies offer updated alternatives to sandbags, such as water barrier socks that expand in water to function much like sandbags, but without the mess. A larger-scale version swells to a 45-meter-long vinyl tube, several of which can be linked together to encircle an entire property. Another tactic involves placing removable watertight plastic barriers across ground floor doors and windows.

A perimeter of water-inflated barriers protected a house from flooding during a season of record-setting rainfall in Rosharon, Texas, in 2016.AquaDam

More permanent investments could involve installing sump pumps in the basement or low-lying areas of a property to remove floodwaters. But for solutions that depend on electricity, homeowners will also need to raise wiring and electrical outlets above flood levels and consider getting a generator or solar power system. Raising plumbing and heating and cooling systems away from the ground to minimize water damage to these costly components is also a good idea, Lewis-Gruss says.

The most expensive tactic is to raise an entire house above flood levels, usually by separating the house from its foundation, raising it with jacks and building a new foundation or propping the house up on posts or pilings. Costs depend on the size and construction of the home, but estimates range from $75 to $100 per square foot, or $187,500 to $250,000 for a 2,500-square-foot home.

In 2015, 50 centimeters of rain fell over five days in South Carolina, flooding Susan Lyons’ Colonial-style house in the historic district of Charleston. Just 10 days later, a high tide brought even more water into her neighborhood. “After that double whammy, I had to file a federal flood insurance claim, my first in 30 years of living by the coast,” she says. She replaced her home’s HVAC system ductwork with waterproof PVC pipe and repointed the brick skirt around the foundation to keep water from seeping in through cracks.

“I learned that making physical improvements to your own house is complicated and expensive, but if you live in a flood zone, you’re going to pay a lot now or pay even more later,” Lyons says.

Installing temporary barriers across exterior doors and windows can help keep floodwater from entering a home.Quikdam

In 2016 and 2017, hurricanes Matthew and Irma delivered more flooding to Charleston. “It seemed like every season we were flooding. Repeated flooding is very traumatic,” Lyons says. But despite the pattern, she felt the city council still viewed flooding as a rare event that people just had to deal with after the fact.

So Lyons helped start the advocacy group Groundswell! to get the mayor and city council to step up community flood-control measures. “We went from a few people around my dining room table to 300 families in a matter of weeks,” she says. “People were eager to help and be helped. We made ourselves heard and amazingly it worked!” In 2018, Mayor John Tecklenburg announced that battling flood issues would be Charleston’s top policy priority. The city is installing new drainage systems, pump stations and seawalls.

By banding together, neighborhoods and communities can work toward flood-control solutions that benefit as many people as possible to help keep individual homeowner costs down.

Community-level tactics may include adding or restoring floodable green spaces such as parks or marshlands (SN: 8/17/19, p. 16), building permanent flood barriers that protect blocks of houses and pressing local and state governments to take action.

“There are certainly actions individuals can take to protect themselves, but a lot … are really costly and especially difficult for those who are already disadvantaged,” Roberts says. “Flood control isn’t something that should be left to individuals to deal with. Solutions have to involve everybody.”

Credit: David Preiss

From floods to wildfires

When it comes to climate-driven natural disasters, fires are as frightening as floods. In 2017 and 2018, California wildfires killed 147 people, burned 3.5 million acres and destroyed over 34,000 structures in two of the worst fire seasons on record. And wildfires are expected to become more severe across the West, says Max Moritz, a wildfire specialist at the University of California, Santa Barbara. “Warming temperatures are melting snow sooner and drying out vegetation so that we’re already seeing longer fire seasons and more available fuel.”

Between 1990 and 2010, more than 12 million homes across the United States were built in what’s known as the wildland-urban interface, where flammable vegetation meets human development and sources of ignition, such as vehicles or power lines, according to a 2018 analysis in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (SN: 12/22/18 & 1/5/19, p. 8).

All Western states are prone to wildfire, Moritz says, and he’s seen upward trends in the Midwest and Southeast, too, due to long-term drought, tree blights, insect-killed trees and a history of fire suppression that has allowed forest fuels to build up.

California has long led the charge in wildfire management, with the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or Cal Fire, overseeing more than 31 million acres of fire-prone landscapes. Since 2008, new construction in high and very high hazard zones must use noncombustible exterior materials and fire-resistant features such as covered gutters that prevent the accumulation of flammable leaves and needles. A few other states, such as Oregon and Washington, have adopted similar building codes.

The November 2018 Camp Fire that swept through Paradise, Calif., showed the benefits of fire-hardened homes: Fifty-one percent of homes that were built to code after 2008 survived; only 18 percent of older homes escaped serious damage. “Those numbers are stunning. Building codes really do work,” says Robert Raymer, an engineer with the California Building Industry Association in Sacramento.

Adhering to fire codes does not add significant costs to building, according to a 2018 report by the nonprofit research group Headwaters Economics. Upgrading a roof with fire-resistant asphalt shingles tends to increase costs by about 27 percent, but using fire-resistant materials for the exterior, such as stucco or cement siding, can reduce costs by about 25 percent. Fire-resistant materials also tend to require less maintenance and have longer life spans than wood or plastic.

California has no requirements for retrofitting older homes for fire resistance. “Building codes don’t take into account the millions of homes that were built in fire-prone areas before 2008,” says Steve Hawks, Cal Fire’s deputy chief of wildland fire prevention engineering. In January, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a $100 million pilot program to help people finance fire safety features for older homes.

Making fire-hardening improvements may lower insurance costs. Unlike flood insurance, fire insurance has traditionally been part of homeowners insurance. But with insured losses from the 2017 and 2018 fires totaling over $24 billion, insurers are scrambling to figure out how to stay in business.

Some insurance companies have responded by drastically raising premiums or dropping high-risk customers. In December 2019, the state insurance commissioner imposed a one-year moratorium on policy nonrenewals. And the California Fair Access to Insurance Requirements Plan expanded to provide fire insurance to homeowners when all other insurance options have failed.

By the 2080s, climates of major U.S. cities are expected to warm to match locations hundreds of kilometers south, as shown above. For example, Washington, D.C., will feel more like northern Mississippi, and Los Angeles could feel as warm as Mexico’s Baja Peninsula. M. Fitzpatrick et al/Nature Communications 2018

Ready for fire

In a wildfire, most houses are ignited not by walls of flames but by embers — small sparks that can travel far from the main fire, Hawks says. House fires can start when one or a few of these sparks land on combustible material, such as dry leaves in a gutter, or if embers find their way inside the house through a roof vent or open window.

For homes built before 2008, Cal Fire suggests some low-cost retrofitting strategies, including sealing any gaps with caulk, weather stripping or fine metal mesh screens; removing dead or dry vegetation from around the house and regularly cleaning leaves and other flammable material from gutters and under decks. More expensive investments include replacing roofs and decks with fire-resistant materials and upgrading windows to multipaned tempered glass that can withstand high temperatures.

One of the most important strategies, required by law in some fire-prone states, is a 100-foot (30.5-meter) radius of defensible space around the home that is kept free of dead or dry plant matter. At least five to 20 meters of cleared space around a structure can slow or stop the spread of a wildfire and protect a home from catching fire from direct flame contact or radiant heat, according to a 2014 study in the International Journal of Wildland Fire. “I don’t stop at 100 feet. I clear everything around my ranch out to 500 feet. Defensible space is the most effective tactic I’ve seen for protecting property,” says retired Kern County firefighter Carrie Shreffler, a resident of Posey, Calif.

Every property is unique in terms of fire risk. “If you really want to assess a home’s vulnerability, you also have to look at weather, topography and fire history for the given area,” Hawks says. “What is the home made out of? How is it constructed? Does it have defensible space? Is there water available for fighting a fire? How close together are the neighboring homes?”

In densely built areas, the houses themselves can fuel fires. “You’ve probably seen aftermath photos where a fire has swept through a town and all the homes have burned, but there are still trees standing and green vegetation,” Moritz says. “That’s what happens when the homes themselves are the fuel. It’s not a land management problem where you should have cleared more brush. You can’t thin the fuels because the homes were the fuel.”

As more homes are built in fire-prone areas across the United States, community-level fire safety approaches will be needed, Moritz says. “A whole suite of risk-reduction measures can be applied at the community scale,” he says. “We need to pay attention to how we lay out communities, with buffer zones between houses and between the community and the surrounding landscape.”

In a report published in April by the University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Moritz and colleagues also recommend burying power lines, creating water storage facilities for fighting fires, hardening emergency facilities and creating community refuges where people can take shelter.

Some communities are already taking steps to prepare for emergencies. In Sequoia National Forest, the Posey Area Fire Auxiliary has been meeting every month for over two decades to educate residents about fire prevention. In 2016, the Cedar Fire burned right to the edge of the mountain community, located within the national forest, but no lives were lost and of about 300 homes, only three abandoned cabins burned, in part due to the community’s diligence. “We all learned a long time ago that we need to be our own first line of defense,” Shreffler says.

After the Cedar Fire, Posey and other surrounding communities were struck by several rain-triggered floods. Flooding after a wildfire is common, Moritz says, because the charred ground cannot absorb water as readily as it once did. These flood events can sometimes evolve into highly destructive debris flows, a thick slurry created when ash mixes with floodwater.

Homeowners living in fire-prone regions near creeks or drainages should consider the possibility of needing to fire- and flood-proof their homes, Moritz says. “The vision is that someday, we will build such hardened and sustainable homes that natural hazards will just be something that happens outside,” Moritz says. “We’ll [be able to] watch fires go by like violent rainstorms.”

Old-fashioned self-sufficiency

Adapting to climate change may seem daunting, but for many in the United States, the impacts won’t come in the form of devastating floods or fires. Instead the seasons will gradually get hotter. For those not facing catastrophe, many of the most effective climate resiliency tactics are rooted in common sense and self-sufficiency, says Alexandra von Meier, an electrical engineer at the University of California, Berkeley.

“A small amount of preparation can go a long way to making any situation more livable,” von Meier says. For example, a solar power array and battery bank, or an emergency generator or portable solar setup, “can make a big difference” in maintaining basic home systems and lines of communication. Installing rainwater collection barrels can help see your garden through a dry season and help you keep water on hand in emergencies. And making upgrades for a better insulated, more energy–efficient home will help lower home operating costs, as well as your carbon footprint, Raymer says.

That preparation is key, von Meier says. “Whether people will be able to stay in their own homes in the aftermath of a natural disaster or a long-term power outage will ultimately depend on their level of preparedness. Do you have enough food and water on hand? Do you have a plan for when the lights don’t work or water stops coming out of the faucet? Do you have ways to communicate with the outside world? These are very basic needs that people should know how to meet.”

.image-mobile { display: none; } @media (max-width: 400px) { .image-mobile { display: block; } .image-desktop { display: none; } } from Tips By Frank https://www.sciencenews.org/article/how-to-protect-your-home-from-disasters-climate-change

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