On the January 20th edition of The KTSA Home Improvement Show, we had a great variety of calls. Read about all of the highlights below!
Roofing
Perry started the show by calling in concerned about planning a full roof replacement due to Hurricane Harvey. He told us he wanted to replace all of the sheathing and add the radiant barrier himself. Perry asked if we recommended anything to apply to the sheathing prior to installation.
We informed Perry that it was important to have his roof inspected by a windstorm certified engineer to make sure his roof followed the current Texas Department of Insurance windstorm codes. This way, Perry would be sure to not lose his coverage.
As for the roofing and radiant barrier paint, we suggested that Perry purchase radiant-infused decking boards to simplify the process.
Thermocouples
Don called next, concerned about the lifespan of a thermocouple because he kept running into furnace issues.
We told Don that it depends on how well the thermocouple is cleaned. Every year, using a soft brush to clean off the carbon and ash on the thermocouple can allow it to last up to 15 to 20 years. However, it is a good idea to keep a few extra thermocouples on hand because they tend to be a common issue.
Windows
David called and told us his 20-year-old windows popped when he opened them, and they wouldn’t stay up anymore. He was curious about the little, spiral metal adjuster coming off the side of his windows, as well.
We informed David that it was probably in his best interest to investment in replacement windows. A 20-year-old set of windows is nowhere near the technology of windows in today’s age and neither is the energy efficiency.
However, we did tell David that the spiral metal adjuster he was curious about is an older piece of technology known as a spiral balance. When a spiral balance pops, it means it is broken and needs to be replaced.
Shower Pans
Jean was concerned about her shower pan being replaced. She told us she had a plumber come by to check it out and found out it was leaking. Jean asked us if she could solve the issue by replacing the floor tiles or if she had to take the sides off, as well.
We told Jean that she would have to have a tile guy remove the tiles and sides before a plumber could replace the shower pan. Then, call the tile guy again to replace the tiles. Alternatively, we told Jean she could ask different plumbing companies if they could replace the tiles as well as the shower pan.
Attic Cooling
Jimmy called curious about attic exhaust fans. He told us it gets hot in his attic living in south Texas, and he wanted to know if we recommended solar or electric exhaust fans.
We told Jimmy that neither the solar or electric exhaust fans were necessary. There are better ways to get a cool circulation in an attic. A ridge vent coupled with either gable vents or soffit vents would be the best option. This would move cool air throughout the entire attic, rather than a few small areas.