For many homeowners in St. Louis, dealing with sewer laterals may not top the list of priorities. However, understanding your responsibilities regarding these essential underground structures is crucial. Sewer laterals are the underground pipes that connect a home’s plumbing system to the main sewer line, typically maintained by local municipalities. In many instances, homeowners are […]
Radon in Missouri Homes: Testing, Levels & Mitigation Basics
Radon, a colorless and odorless radioactive gas, poses significant health risks when it accumulates in homes. In Missouri, where geological conditions can contribute to elevated radon levels, testing for this harmful gas is a critical safety measure for homeowners. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer […]
Earthquake Insurance in Missouri: What to Know Before You Buy
Missouri, notably a part of the New Madrid Seismic Zone, is no stranger to the potential risks posed by earthquakes. This area has a storied history of seismic activity, with significant quakes reported as early as the early 1800s. The infamous 1811-1812 earthquakes were among the strongest ever recorded in the continental United States, with […]
New Madrid Quake Prep: Strap Water Heaters & Secure Heavy Furniture
The New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ) is a major source of earthquake activity, sprawling across the central United States, approximating along the Mississippi River Valley. This region, encompassing parts of Arkansas, Missouri, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois, is noteworthy for its historical seismic activity, including a series of massive quakes from 1811 to 1812. These […]
Heat Waves in St. Louis: HVAC Maintenance & Attic Insulation Tips
Heat waves are extreme weather conditions characterized by prolonged periods of excessively high temperatures, which can significantly disrupt daily life and compromise health and safety. Over the past few decades, studies have shown an increase in the frequency and intensity of heat waves, partly due to ongoing climate change. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports […]
Winter in Missouri: Prevent Frozen Pipes & Ice Dams
Winter in Missouri presents a unique set of challenges for homeowners, particularly when it comes to maintaining the integrity of your home’s plumbing system and roof. As temperatures drop, two common issues that can cause significant headaches and financial burdens are frozen pipes and ice dams. Understanding the underlying risks associated with these issues is […]
Tree Trimming Before Storm Season: St. Louis Yard Safety
Every year, as storm season approaches, homeowners in St. Louis are reminded of the potential risks that come with severe weather. Trees, while beautiful and beneficial in numerous ways, can become significant hazards if not properly maintained. One proactive step to mitigate these risks is early tree trimming—a practice that not only safeguards property but […]
Lightning & Power Spikes: Whole-Home Surge Protection for St. Louis
Power surges pose a significant risk to the electrical infrastructure of homes, a concern that is especially pertinent to residents in St. Louis. These surges, or transient voltage spikes, can result from various sources including internal factors like the sudden turning on and off of appliances, and external events such as lightning strikes and utility […]
Generator Safety in Missouri: Transfer Switches & Carbon Monoxide
In today’s unpredictable world, having a reliable power backup like a generator is not just a luxury but often a necessity, especially in areas prone to severe weather conditions such as Missouri. However, the efficiency and safety of a generator system largely depend on its integration with your home’s electrical system. This is where transfer […]
Roof & Siding Checks After Missouri Hail and Wind
Hailstorms are a common weather occurrence in Missouri, particularly during the spring and summer months. As a homeowner, it’s crucial to understand the signs of hail damage to safeguard your property. Hailstones can vary dramatically in size, from as small as a pea to as large as a baseball, and even a brief storm can […]