The largest, heaviest moving object in your home is the garage door. So, it makes sense to do frequent safety checks on the door.
First, look for a safety label near the control button or the overhead door. It will tell you how to safely operate the door and test the reverse mechanism. Second, make sure the control button is mounted at least five feet above the floor or any step. This prevents small children from playing with the door operator. Third, never allow children to play with the door or the operator. Next, test your operator for reverse and door balance once per month. Follow the specific instructions on your door's safety label. If you don't understand these instructions or you don't have specific instructions for your door, contact a professional door service company. Throughout the year, check the door hardware for tightness. Consult your owner's manual for the proper lubricant, and apply it to rollers, tracks and other mechanical parts. Have the door serviced by a professional if there is any sign of problems.
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Always prime when the existing surface has stains, chalking, dark colors or irregular surface conditions. Even better, purchase a high quality paint that has primer mixed in. Don’t go cheap on the paint.
When prepping your surfaces, small holes, cracks or damage, can be fixed with a paintable caulk instead of drywall mud or plaster. Paintable caulk has the advantage of expanding/contracting with temperature changes. Primers work because it’s specially formulated with additional binders, additives and tougher pigments that cover problem areas. Some brands include Zinsser’s BIN, KILZ (by Masterchem Industries), and Zinsser’s Bulls Eye 1-2-3. BIN is my favorite for most conditions because it effectively covers stains, is low-odor and dries in 45 minutes. Primers have special qualities for special conditions, so read the labels or consult a painting professional for specific applications. For the best advice, visit a paint store that contractors use. If your going to try it yourself, use a paintable caulk for small wall repairs and a high grade paint and primer mix. You’ll save yourself a lot of work and your results will be much better. |
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Amelia's Home Inspection offers the highest quality Home Inspection services in Greater Milwaukee, Wisconsin at an affordable price. A home inspection provides an analysis of potential fire hazards, home safety and health risks to your family. Archives
January 2020
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