Missouri is no stranger to severe wind events, including tornadoes and powerful thunderstorms, which make garage door reinforcement an essential consideration for homeowners. The Show-Me state finds itself in Tornado Alley, compelling residents to prepare for potential damage caused by these natural events. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the average number […]
Tag: safety
Basement Egress Windows in St. Louis: Code and Costs
For homeowners in St. Louis, ensuring safety and compliance with local building codes is paramount, especially when it comes to basement living spaces. One of the critical components of basement safety is the installation of egress windows. These windows are not just standard installations; they serve a fundamental purpose in providing an escape route in […]
Post-Storm HVAC Restart Checklist for Missouri Homes
Missouri, with its diverse climate and frequent severe weather events, often challenges homeowners with the task of storm recovery, particularly when it comes to HVAC systems. For residents, an HVAC system is not just a convenience but a necessity, providing essential heating and cooling throughout the year. However, storms can significantly impact these systems, making […]
Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Placement and Testing in Missouri
In today’s modern homes, ensuring the safety of occupants is paramount, and one often overlooked yet critical component of this safety strategy is the use of carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be lethal at high levels. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over […]
Power Outage Food Safety for St. Louis Families
Power outages can strike unpredictably, often leading to a cascade of challenges, particularly when it comes to maintaining food safety in your home. For families in St. Louis, where weather patterns can range from severe storms to ice-laden winters, these outages are not just inconvenient but pose a real risk to food preservation. Knowing how […]
Safe Use of Space Heaters During Missouri Cold Snaps
The people for whom this information is intended will likely be homeowners and renters in Missouri, particularly those without substantial heating systems or facing unexpected cold snaps. Their primary need is to select a space heater that efficiently and safely warms their home without increasing the risk of fire or wasting energy. Understanding different types […]
Knob-and-Tube Wiring in Historic St. Louis Houses: Upgrade Guide
In the landscape of American architectural history, knob-and-tube wiring stands out as a hallmark of early 20th-century electrical systems. This widely used method of electrical wiring existed predominantly from the 1880s to the 1940s and became a staple in homes across the United States, including those in historic St. Louis. Understanding knob-and-tube wiring is vital […]
Lead Service Lines in Older St. Louis Homes: What to Do
Identifying lead service lines in your home, especially in areas like St. Louis where many homes were built before the mid-20th century, is a crucial first step in mitigating the risks associated with lead exposure. Lead has been widely used in plumbing systems because of its malleability and resistance to corrosion, but over time, its […]
Backyard Sheds, Playsets & Trampolines: Securing for St. Louis Winds
St. Louis, situated along the Mississippi River, is known for its unique weather patterns, which often bring about unpredictable wind conditions. Understanding these wind patterns is essential for homeowners who want to ensure the safety and stability of their backyard structures such as sheds, playsets, and trampolines. With Midwest weather being infamous for its rapid […]
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 […]