15 Tools Every Homeowner Should Own

 

Written by Nick Gromicko, CMI® and Ben Gromicko

 

The following items are essential tools, but this list is not exhaustive. Ask an InterNACHI inspector during your next inspection about other tools that you might find useful.

 

1.  Plunger

A clogged sink or toilet is one of the most inconvenient household problems that you will face. With a plunger on hand, however, you can usually remedy these plumbing issues relatively quickly. It is best to have two plungers -- one for the sink and one for the toilet.

 

2. Combination Wrench Set

One end of a combination wrench set is open and the other end is a closed loop. Nuts and bolts are manufactured in standard and metric sizes, and because both varieties are widely used, you’ll need both sets of wrenches. For the most control and leverage, always pull the wrench toward you, instead of pushing on it. Also, avoid over-tightening.

 

3.  Slip-Joint Pliers

Use slip-joint pliers to grab hold of a nail, a nut, a bolt, and much more. These types of pliers are versatile because of the jaws, which feature both flat and curved areas for gripping many types of objects. There is also a built-in slip-joint, which allows the user to quickly adjust the jaw size to suit most tasks.

 

4. Adjustable Wrench

Adjustable wrenches are awkward to use and can damage a bolt or nut if they are not handled properly. However, adjustable wrenches are ideal for situations where you need two wrenches of the same size. Screw the jaws all the way closed to avoid damaging the bolt or nut.

5. Caulking Gun

Caulking is sealing up cracks and gaps in various structures and certain types of piping. Caulking can provide noise mitigation and thermal insulation, and control water penetration. Caulk should be applied only to areas that are clean and dry.

 

6. Flashlight

None of the tools in this list is of any use if you cannot visually inspect the situation. The problem, and solution, are apparent only with a good flashlight. A traditional two-battery flashlight is usually sufficient, as larger flashlights may be too unwieldy.

 

7. Tape Measure

Measuring house projects requires a tape measure—not a ruler or a yardstick. Tape measures come in many lengths, although 25 feet is best. Measure everything at least twice to ensure accuracy.

 

8. Hacksaw

A hacksaw is useful for cutting metal objects, such as pipes, bolts and brackets. Hacksaws look flimsy, but they’ll easily cut through even the hardest of metals. Blades are replaceable, so focus your purchase on a quality hacksaw frame.

 

9. Torpedo Level

Only a level can determine if something, such as a shelf, appliance or picture, is correctly oriented. The torpedo-style level is unique because it not only shows when an object is perfectly horizontal or vertical, but it also has a gauge that shows when an object is at a 45-degree angle. The bubble in the viewfinder must be exactly in the middle—not merely close.

10. Safety Glasses / Goggles

For all tasks involving a hammer or a power tool, you should always wear safety glasses or goggles. They should also be worn while you mix chemicals.

11. Claw Hammer

A good hammer is one of the most important tools you can own.  Use it to drive and remove nails, to pry wood loose from the house, and in combination with other tools. They come in a variety of sizes, although a 16-ounce hammer is the best all-purpose choice.

12. Screwdriver Set

It is best to have four screwdrivers: a small and large version of both a flathead and a Phillips-head screwdriver. Electrical screwdrivers are sometimes convenient, but they're no substitute. Manual screwdrivers can reach into more places and they are less likely to damage the screw. 

13.  Wire Cutters

Wire cutters are pliers designed to cut wires and small nails. The side-cutting style (unlike the stronger end-cutting style) is handy, but not strong enough to cut small nails.

14.  Respirator / Safety Mask

While paints and other coatings are now manufactured to be less toxic (and lead-free) than in previous decades, most still contain dangerous chemicals, which is why you should wear a mask to avoid accidentally inhaling. A mask should also be worn when working in dusty environments. Disposable masks usually come in packs of 10 and should be thrown away after use. Full and half-face respirators can prevent the inhalation of very fine particles that ordinary facemasks will not stop. 

15. Duct Tape

This tape is extremely strong and adaptable. Originally, it was widely used to make temporary repairs to many types of military equipment. Today, it’s one of the key items specified for home emergency kits because it is water-resistant and extremely sticky.

  

Lynelle Clark

CPI NACHI 23012702

East Rand Area

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Smart Ways to Prepare your Home for the Winter.

 

Article May 17, 2022, | By Lifestyle Reporter

Blocked gutters, cracked foundations, rotting window and door frames, mould, and burst water pipes are just some woes that property owners can experience during the harsh winter months.

Given that homes are the largest investment for many South Africans, and that it can be extremely costly to repair cold weather damage, it makes financial sense to invest some time and money in preventative measures.

Shafeeka Anthony, marketing manager of personal finance website JustMoney.co.za, says: “Houses can take a real hammering during the winter. Whether rain, harsh winds, hail or frost occur in your area, it’s best to undertake any outstanding maintenance sooner rather than later.

“Start by checking the property exterior, then progress to the interior. This will not only help prevent expensive repair bills down the line, but will help ensure that you and your family are snug and cheerful during the cold months.”

JustMoney offers the following ten property maintenance tips:

1. Cut back vegetation: Overhanging trees can drop branches and leaves on your and your neighbour’s roof and prevent sun from warming your home. Check the health of your trees and trim branches back if needed. Sweep walkways and pavements to prevent slipping.

2. Clear rain gutters: Autumn leaves can pile up in gutters, so clear them and ensure they function properly. While you’re on the roof, look out for any missing or cracked tiles or shingles. Add downspout extenders to your gutters if necessary to prevent water from pooling at the foundation.

3. Inspect windows and doors: Check for cracked, chipping or peeling paint. Insulate any draughty openings to keep cold at bay and decrease heating costs.

4. Prepare your pool: Inspect and shut down your pool system. If you discover problems, autumn is a good time to schedule repairs as pool contractors are less busy.

5. Adjust your irrigation system: Adjust water times and check for broken lines to avoid wasting water.

6. Check outdoor lighting: Ensure that outdoor lights are operational to optimise visibility during early morning departures and late arrivals home. A well-lit exterior will enhance both your personal safety and home security.

7. Heat your home: Check ceiling insulation, and clean your chimney. Ensure that oil, gas, or underfloor heating systems are operational. Cut and stack garden wood, or place your order for a delivery of firewood. Store it in a clean, dry location.

8. Make an entrance: Place dirt-trapping, rubber-backed door mats at main doors. Install hooks or a rail to hang wet, heavy coats.

9. Add layers: Installing thick, lined curtains, and placing rugs on the floor will help keep surroundings cosy. Fragranced candles, textured throws and additional cushions add comfort. Don’t forget your pets. Ensure they have sufficient clean, warm bedding, and consider a bird feeder in the garden.

10. Fund repairs wisely: Some preventative measures require only a layer of varnish and a few nails. Other repairs are expensive and call for the services of a professional, for example a tree cutter with the appropriate horticultural training and insurance. Ask friends for recommendations and shop around to ensure you get the best value for your hard-earned money.

“The cost of property repairs is a timely reminder of the importance of building up emergency savings,” says Anthony. “Ideally, you should have sufficient funds to cover your costs for six months. It’s also a good idea to check whether some repairs might be covered under your insurance policy.”

Repairs could also be funded via your home loan if you have built up sufficient resources. Your mortgage bond is the lowest interest loan you will ever get.

“Alternatively, you may have to fund repairs by taking out a personal loan. It’s vital to be fully aware of the type, purpose and conditions of any debt before taking it on. Only apply for a personal loan if you are confident that you can make the repayments comfortably,” says Anthony.

Ten smart ways to prepare your home for winter (ecr.co.za)

Image courtesy of Pexel.com.

 

How to secure your home

 

The article is taken from Ooba's website. Writer unknown. 

With the rising concern of theft within our area, it is always good to be prepared. Knowing what to look for and check for any vulnerable places within your house will make it that more difficult to become another statistic.  

The turmoil you experience when a break in has occurred diminishes your feeling of safety and causes more problems. 

Effective security should be a priority when moving into a new home, and knowing how to secure your home is crucial for your own peace of mind.

Article summary

· It’s essential to know how to make your house safe from burglars in South Africa to ensure your personal safety as well as to safeguard your belongings.

· This will add value to your property and most likely have a positive effect on your household insurance premiums.

· Make sure all opening windows and doors are protected by burglar guards and preferably an alarm system.

· Don’t become complacent. Use the alarm system if you have one.

Personal safety will always be a priority in South Africa. Securing your new home should be one of the first things you do—preferably before you move in—so that you leave nothing to chance or, in this case, an opportunistic burglar who might see you as an easy target.

What are the most effective ways to secure your home?

Smart home security will not only protect you and your family, but will also add value to your home. South Africans are security conscious and a property that appears to be vulnerable will immediately be perceived as less valuable. Prevention is vital in the fight against crime, so knowing how to secure your home in South Africa is crucial for your own peace of mind and the future safety of you and your family.

Here are the areas you should focus on when looking to improve your home security:

Perimeter

Securing your perimeter should be the first thing you do, and you can do so effectively with a mix of technological and traditional security measures.

· An electric fence or wall can be a solid deterrence. If it’s a wall, it helps to reinforce it with barbed wire or spikes on top; otherwise, burglars will be able to easily climb over.

· Having visibility on the perimeter of your home is essential, so install CCTV cameras as soon as you can.

· Certain smart technologies that enable you to monitor your perimeter from remote locations will also boost your security and significantly improve the value of the home.

The gate

According to the experts on mrgate.co.za, potential weaknesses of a gate include:

· Lifting. Burglars can lift the gate to gain access to the property. You can prevent this by securing the gate with anti-lift brackets.

· The gate rack. On sliding gates, this can be forced away from the gate (usually with a crowbar), allowing it to be opened. You can prevent this by welding a flat bar onto the rack to prevent it from being moved.

· The intercom. Burglars can press this to see if the home is occupied. Certain smart technologies enable you to connect your intercom system to your smartphone so that you’ll know if someone has pressed the intercom button.

· The gate remote. Ensure you’re using a modern remote with up-to-date technology, as older remotes can be copied, or the settings replicated.

Windows

Burglar bars are essential, and should be robust. Agnieszka Gryn, regional executive at Fidelity ADT, suggests installing burglar bars on the outside of the windows, even though they may not be as aesthetically pleasing.

Doors

Main doors must be made of strong material, and reinforced, preferably with multi-point locks that can lock the door at several points.

Dogs

Investigator Brigadier Piet Byleveld says that dogs are one of the most effective security measures. As well as deterring criminals, they provide an early warning system.

Alarm system

Research by professor Rudolph Zinn from UNISA’s School of Criminal Justice and Police Practice shows alarms and security sensors to be among the most effective burglar repellents. The alarm should be installed by an armed response company, and it’s important to test it regularly and keep it maintained.

Staff

Rudolph Zinn interviewed 30 perpetrators who were convicted and incarcerated for aggravated robbery, and the majority said that they relied on inside information when deciding which homes to target. That’s why Piet Byleveld advice to screen your workers, including domestic workers and gardeners, for criminal records, and finding out why they left previous employment.

Know the enemy

Do your best to inform yourself about how burglars operate. Seek advice from the local police station if possible. Low-level thieves will usually only target homes with no security, but more “professional” burglars operate in groups; are keenly aware of security response times; and will usually survey properties before commencing with their burglary attempt.

Rudolph Zinn’s research shows that burglars targeted homes according to the following factors:

· Wealth. Victims were targeted because the burglars knew there would be valuables in the house.

· Inside information. As mentioned above, burglars prefer to target homes where information has been provided to them.

· Proximity. Burglars prefer to target homes within 10 to 30 minutes driving distance.

· Low security. Homes with substandard security were naturally a target.

Finding a good security provider

Whatever your plan is, ensure that your security provider is a registered member of the South African Intruder Detection Service Associations (SAIDSA), so you can be confident that their equipment and training meets the standards.

Source: How to secure your home against burglars in South Africa (ooba.co.za)

Check for moisture

There are two areas in your home that are prone to mould. 

Be on the lookout for mould where ever moisture has intruded, and do something about it before it becomes a health risk. 

Kitchen

It is easy to overlook the warning signs of excess moisture and impending water damage. Learn to keep an eye out for these all-too-common sources of moisture damage.

Under the Kitchen Sink

Under the sink is not just for storage and the trash can. It is often the starting point for many water-related problems. Dampness and musty odours are common signs of a leak.

Is a drip in the trap under the sink going unnoticed? It’s a warning sign of potentially serious drain problems.

Is a steady drip at a faucet going unnoticed? Recommend that it be repaired promptly.

Are there damp or stained areas in or under the wall where the plumbing pipes penetrate?

Are there large holes in the wall with smaller pipes coming through? These holes should be filled with appropriate foams, caulks and sealants.

Is the floor beneath the plumbing penetrations soft or stained?

Around the Kitchen Sink

The kitchen sink is a high-traffic zone that sees more action than almost any other place in the home. 

Is the backsplash cracked? Are the sink seals cracked or lose?

Is the countertop tile or grout cracked, broken or missing?  Although it may appear to be only a minor cosmetic issue, it’s not a minor issue when it comes to moisture control.

Under the Dishwasher

This workhorse appliance is often overlooked as a water damage risk.

Most inspectors turn on and operate the dishwasher in order to look for failures in operation. 

If the dishwasher backs up or overflows into the sink, there may be a clogged drain line.  The drain line should be cleaned regularly.

If the dishwasher fails to completely empty after use, the main filter and drain may be clogged.

Find a small leak in the dishwasher water supply hose? It needs to be replaced immediately.

Behind the Refrigerator

We rarely inspect behind the refrigerator.  But a check-up may prevent messy problems. If the refrigerator has an icemaker, check for damage or disconnection of the supply line.

Moisture behind the refrigerator is a big red flag.  Even if you can diagnose the source of the problem, call out for a professional.  Don’t ignore even a slight leak or kink in the icemaker supply line.

If unidentifiable mouldy objects are growing underneath the refrigerator, call them out.  There shouldn’t be any moisture under the refrigerator.

If the model has a drain pan, check the pan for cleanliness, bacterial and other growths.

Beneath the Cooking Range

Open the bottom drawer to inspect underneath the stove. You may see signs of moisture or mould.

Kitchen Exhaust Fans and Filters

Fans and filters are small items that play a big role in moisture and mould management. Some fans merely filter and re-circulate air, which does not reduce moisture produced from cooking.

Is the range exhaust filter caked and dirty?

Is the exhaust fan covered with dust?

If there are down-vented indoor grills, check them. They should be clean to ensure the free flow of air.

Bathroom Problems.

What to Look For

Plumbing

Most plumbing is hidden in the walls, and serious problems can begin "invisibly." 

Listen for tiny drips in the wall.

If a wall is damp to the touch or discolored, there is moisture damage in progress.

Any visible leaks under the sink or around the toilet need to be fixed before they lead to more serious and expensive moisture damage.

Signs of water damage in flooring in the bathroom, or on the ceilings of rooms below a bathroom, are a red flag of a possible water leak.

Exhaust Fan

One of the most important tools for moisture management in the bathroom is the exhaust fan.

A non-functioning exhaust fan overloads the bathroom with damp air.

If the exhaust fan doesn’t come on automatically when the bathroom light is turned on, consider recommending a wiring or switch change so that the fan will activate simultaneously with the light.  A switch can also be installed that turns on the fan when the bathroom humidity is high, or that uses a timer switch that will operate the fan for 30 to 40 minutes after a shower.

Be certain that the bathroom exhaust fan vents to the outdoors, and not into the house or attic. 

Toilet

The toilet has critical inlet and outlet functions that need to be sealed so that they're leak-free.

Make sure there are no leaks in the water line.

Check for signs of staining and water damage on the floor.  If present, immediately check the toilet rim seal and tank seal. If the toilet rocks back and forth when pushed slightly (using your leg), the floor drain may not be sealed properly to the toilet.

If the floor around the toilet seems soft or seems to give, structural damage may be occurring.

Windows

Bathroom windows need to perform properly in a wide range of humidity and temperature conditions.

Check to see if there are any obvious breaks in the weatherstripping or seals.

Are there stains or flaking on the painted surfaces?

Showers and Bathtubs

Areas that are exposed to this much water need close inspection.

Is the caulking cracked, stiff or loose in spots?

Are there cracked tiles or missing grout that may channel water to vulnerable areas?

If some water remains in the bathtub after draining, it may be a warning sign of possible structural weakening and settlement in the floor beneath the tub.

Used with permission: InterNACHI