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    Clean Your Gutters Without a Ladder With These Tools and Extensions – Lifehacker - December 11, 2023 by Mr HomeBuilder

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    Cleaning your gutters can be a hassle. Leaves and pine needles will drop into them, and they can easily get clogged and overflow, causing you homeownership headaches. Keeping them clear is important, not just during the rainy season, but as winter weather rolls in, as keeping gutters clear will help prevent ice dams from forming on your roof.

    But getting up on a ladder to clean out gutters isnt always the safest or most convenient option. Here are some tools and tool extensions that will help you clear out your gutters without ever leaving the ground.

    An extension for a standard leaf blower will allow you to clear gutters by stretching the nozzle to roof height and adding an attachment that points down toward the gutter. This universal leaf blower extension kit will work with most leaf blowers and can reach up to 11 feet up. You can also use this extension with a shop vac converted to a blower by switching the vacuum hose from the intake to the exhaust port.

    Here are our top recommendations for tools and tool extensions to help you clean your gutters from the ground.

    To avoid a climb, use water to blast leaves out of your gutters. You have a few options here. The first is a garden hose attachment that will squirt water from your hose up into the gutter, washing leaves up and over the sides. This telescoping garden hose attachment can reach up to seven feet, six inches into the gutter, making ladders unnecessary on first floor gutters.

    If you have lower water pressure or a more challenging packed-in leaf situation, using a pressure washer extension is a good choice. This universal pressure washer extension will reach up to nine feet, and can accommodate up to 4000 PSI to blast caked-together leaves out of your gutters. (Just be careful not to use too much pressure, or you'll risk damaging your gutters.)

    If you have a tool that works from the ground, starting with a good telescoping extension pole can set you up for success. A standard seven- to 24-foot extension pole will reach the gutters on most houses, and you can use one pole to swap out multiple tools. Keep in mind that the longer your pole is extended, the more difficult it will be to control.

    If you have a clump of leaves or another object like a ball blocking your gutters, fish it out using a grabber on an extension pole. This gutter cleaning grabber is operated using a rope and a pole and can be mounted on most tool poles. Its jaws will open up to about a foot to accommodate even relatively large objectsbut be careful picking up anything too heavy, since the spring operated mechanism isnt geared for major extractions.

    For a low-tech option, you can use attach a telescoping handle to a tiny rake that you can angle to reach into the gutter to remove leaves. Since it attaches with standard fittings like those on painters poles, you can use it at whatever extension you like. As its small, this rake might be a little too floppy for larger jobs, but it will get the job done for most standard cleanup operations.

    You can also use an inspection mirror to check out whats in your gutter so you know what tool to use to clear it. Discovering that what you thought was a clump of leaves is really a ball can totally change your approach to the project. Add an inspection mirror to your telescoping pole to see whats going on from the ground, and check them out again when you're done to make sure you've cleared everything out.

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    Clean Your Gutters Without a Ladder With These Tools and Extensions - Lifehacker

    Best Gutter Guards Of 2023 Forbes Home – Forbes - December 11, 2023 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Material

    Depending on the type of material of your gutter guard, you may need to maintain, repair or replace your gutterguard within a few years or sooner. Higher-end materials will help your gutter guards last longer, so youll have fewer gutter issues.

    Copper

    Copper gutter guards are known for their durability and aesthetic appeal. Used in constructing micro-mesh and screen gutter guards, they develop a natural patina over time, which gives them a distinct and elegant look. Copper guards are resistant to rust and corrosion, making them a long-lasting option.

    Aluminum

    If youre looking for a gutter guard thats lightweight, affordable and easy to install, aluminum gutter guards are highly recommended. Used in constructing micro-mesh and screen gutter guards, these guards are resistant to rust and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Theyre also customizable to fit different gutter sizes for a seamless look.

    Stainless Steel

    Stainless steel gutter guards are popular for homeowners looking for long-lasting protection against debris, rust and corrosion. Stainless steel guards are typically more expensive than other options, but thats because theyre highly durable and resistant to all kinds of harsh weather and damage. They are typically used in constructing reverse-curve, micro-mesh and screen gutter guards.

    Plastic

    If youre looking for an affordable and easy-to-install gutter guard, look no further than plastic options. Mostly found in the construction of reverse-curve and brush guards, plastic guards may not be as durable as metal options, but they still offer effective debris protection.

    Foam

    Foam gutter guards provide an excellent solution for maintaining clear and debris-free gutters. Created to fit snugly inside the gutter, these guards allow water to pass through freely, leaving the debris out of the gutter. Typically crafted from porous polyurethane or similar materials, foam gutter guards offer a practical and efficient way to safeguard your gutters from clogging.

    Measuring your roof and knowing exactly how much material you need will ensure you buy the right size gutter guards. Gutter guards range from 3 to 8 feet long and 5 inches wide on average. Once you measure your gutters and roof, a pro can help you pick the best size.

    Do you care if your gutter guards are visible from the ground, or do you prefer your roof to look as streamlined as possible? Answering this question will hopefully give you more insight into whether a gutter guard is for you and which type you should get. A key difference between gutter guards is how they attach to your gutters.

    The visibility of gutter guards varies depending on their type and design. For instance, mesh guards installed on top of the gutters blend in with the gutters and have a low-profile appearance. Reverse curve guards, installed over the gutters, are relatively discreet but can be somewhat visible depending on their design and color.

    On the other hand, certain gutter guard types are more visible than others. Bottle brush guards are noticeable, and the visibility level depends on the bristle length and thickness. Solid covers, which fully cover the gutter, offer great protection but can be more visible due to their design.

    An extended warranty is a testament to the manufacturers confidence in their products quality and durability. It can be reassuring for homeowners to know that their gutter guards are protected in the event of an issue.

    However, the warranty for your gutter guard system can differ depending on your chosen installation method. If you choose to do it yourself, the manufacturers warranty on the product may vary. This is because proper installation is critical to the performance and longevity of gutter guards, and manufacturers may have specific requirements for professional installation to ensure warranty coverage.

    Its essential to understand the terms and conditions of any warranty thoroughly. Some warranties may only cover specific defects or damage, and others may have limitations or requirements for maintenance and installation that must be met to maintain warranty validity. Thus, a comprehensive grasp of the warranty details ensures you make an informed decision and protect your gutter guards effectively.

    When choosing the right gutter guards, cost is an important factor, but it should not be the only thing that matters. When youre deciding which gutter guard to buy, consider the value of the protection it will provide against costly home repairs. Often, this value can outweigh the initial cost of purchasing gutter guards.

    For instance, while you may be initially drawn to a low-cost gutter guard, its long-term benefits and potential savings are also worth considering. High-quality gutter guards can help you prevent water damage to your homes foundation, siding and landscaping, which are all costly repairs. Moreover, gutter guards can play an important role in streamlining your gutter cleaning and maintenance process, saving both time and money for years to come.

    Continue reading here:
    Best Gutter Guards Of 2023 Forbes Home - Forbes

    Gutter Guard Installation Costs of 2023 – MarketWatch - December 11, 2023 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Different gutters require different types of gutter guard types, some which are more effective for specific types of debris, so select a guard based on the debris your home experiences.

    Gutter guards are also susceptible to ridges of ice that form at the edge of your roof, known as ice dams. Ice dams prevent melting snow from draining off your roof, leading to icicles and water damage. We recommend choosing a gutter guard with a heating element if you live in a snowy or icy climate.

    Brush gutter guards are easy to install on your own. These guards use large bristles to capture debris but leave enough of an opening for water to pass through. Brush gutter guards are best for large debris, such as leaves and pine cones. Smaller debris like pine needles can get stuck in bristles and clog.

    Foam gutter guards are an easy-to-install piece of foam that fits into your gutters. The foam maintains water flow while blocking debris. However, leaves can still build up and clog foam guards, and seedlings can take root and grow inside. These guards are best suited for homeowners who dont have heavy tree coverage.

    Micro-mesh gutter guards are a highly efficient option. They have a compact screen made of finely woven mesh that blocks even small debris, such as shingle grit, pine needles and pollen.

    Many micro-mesh gutter guard companies claim youll never have to clean your gutters again, which is somewhat misleading. These gutter guards still require cleaning, but they dramatically decrease the frequency. You should clean gutters roughly twice a year without gutter guards. With gutter guards, you only have to clean them every one to two years.

    Reverse-curve gutter guards, sometimes called surface tension gutter guards, are among the most efficient options. The guards designs vary by brand, but they all utilize surface tension to push debris onto the ground. Some debris may stick during heavy downpours, but you should be able to brush this off or wait until it dries and falls to the ground.

    Reverse-curve gutter guard installation often requires replacing your entire gutter system and moving roof shingles. Be aware that the installation may conflict with your roof warranty.

    Screen gutter guards have large holes that block debris as rainwater flows through. These guards are typically made of plastic or metal, but smaller debris may still get through, depending on the size of the holes in the screen. This type of gutter guard is ideal for homeowners in temperate climates who dont have nearby pine trees.

    Read the original here:
    Gutter Guard Installation Costs of 2023 - MarketWatch

    How to Clean Gutters – The Home Depot - April 5, 2023 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Regular maintenance will make your gutters last longer. At some point, they will need to be repaired or replaced to help protect your home from water damage. Here are a few signs that will help you determine if your gutters need to be repaired or replaced.

    Cracks or splits

    Even small cracks will grow, allowing water to seep into the fascia boards behind the gutters, the shingles above the gutter and the foundation below. Replace any split or crack sections of gutter.

    Paint damage and rust

    The paint on your gutters is weather resistant. Peeling paint or rust indicates that water is present on the surface on a continuous basis. Look for clogs and remove debris to get the water flowing. Replace or touch up the paint on the damaged section of the gutter.

    Pools of water and mold

    If you see standing water or mildew near the foundation, it can indicate that the gutters are clogged or there could be a defect in the gutter system. Remove the clog. If the problem persists, replace that section of gutter and downspout.

    Water damage or water marks

    Inspect directly beneath the gutters on a dry, sunny day for any evidence of water damage. Water damage underneath gutters can indicate that they are leaking or overflowing with water. Look for possible blockages in the area. If there are none, this indicates that the section has a crack or a leak which will need to be repaired or replaced.

    Sagging gutters

    Gutter sag is a definite sign that its time to replace gutters. Gutters should never sag or pull away from the house. Sagging gutters means that it is no longer draining properly and needs to be replaced. This may be a good time to look into upgrading your old ones with gutter guards or screens or with seamless gutters.

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    How to Clean Gutters - The Home Depot

    How to Clean Gutters: The 5 Best Ways to Get the Job Done – Bob Vila - April 5, 2023 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Photo: istockphoto.com

    Of all the necessary evils that make up a comprehensive fall yard maintenance routine, cleaning the gutters may be the most dreaded of all. Tedious though this task is, homeowners are wise not to neglect it. Properly functioning gutters, after all, ensure that storm water does not find its way indoors.

    Learning how to clean gutters isnt difficult and with proper precautions in place, is safe. There is a variety of ways to get those leaves out of the gutters before they clog and lead to gutter damage, and theres no one best way for every homeowner. Some folks dont like using power washers, and others dont want their feet to leave the ground in the process. The best way to clean gutters is to use a safe, effective method youre comfortable with.

    Gutters serve the vital purpose of collecting the rain that falls on the roof and diverting it through downspouts away from the homes foundation. Without gutters, water that falls near the foundation could leaks through windows, or seep into a basement or crawlspace.

    Rain gutters typically require very little upkeep to function well, other than keeping them free of debris. Gutters that are filled with leaves can lead to clogged downspouts, which cause water to spill out over the top of the gutter channel and fall to the ground below. Worse, winters melt and freeze cycles can cause snow on the roof to melt into the gutter and freeze there. These ice-filled gutters are sometimes so heavy that they detach from the roof.

    RELATED: How to Prevent and Remove Ice Dams

    Teetering on a telescoping ladder while trying to scoop leaves out of a gutter isnt the safest way to get the job done. The good news is that there are several gutter-cleaning tools that allow homeowners to clean the debris while keeping both feet on the ground.

    If you have to climb a ladder clean the gutters, dont use a stepladder, which is prone to tipping if you get off balance. Instead, use a sturdy extension ladder and have a helper stand at the base to stabilize the ladder.

    For all homes over a single story in height, its best to hire a gutter-cleaning service to do the work for you. These companies have the proper equipment to access high gutters safely. Dont attempt climbing on your roof to clean guttersits not worth the risk.

    RELATED: What NOT to Do When Cleaning Your Homes Rain Gutters

    Cleaning gutters from the ground is effective and is by far the safest gutter cleaning method. You will need to proceed slowly and systematically because you cant really see what youre doing, and yes, it will probably take you a little longer than it would if you were standing on a ladder. The most common ways to clean gutters from the ground require either a garden hose or a shop-type wet/dry vacuum, plus a couple of handy attachments. Here are the two best gutter-cleaning techniques for those who prefer to work with their feet planted firmly on the ground.

    As long as they are not thoroughly clogged, its relatively easy to clean your gutters from the ground using a garden hose equipped with an attachment such as the GutterMaster Telescopic Water Fed Pole, or another such water-fed tube with a curved end that can be aimed inside the gutter. Start at the end nearest the downspout, spray out the entire channel length, and then work your way back to the downspout. Water, leaves, and small twigs are likely to spray over the sides of the gutter, so dress appropriately.

    RELATED: Are Gutters Actually Necessary?

    Another way to remove debris from your gutters is to use a wet/dry vacuum equipped with the hoses and curved attachments you need to reach the obstructed gutters from ground level. Home improvement stores and online retailers carry these gutter-cleaning kits (one to consider is the Craftsman Gutter Cleaning Kit for Shop Vacuums). Once youve removed most of the debris from the gutters, flush the gutters and downspout with water from a garden hose.

    Climbing on a ladder to clean the gutters isnt as safe as cleaning them from the ground since theres always a risk of falling. To reduce this risk, its essential to use the right ladder. Avoid using a step ladder, which can tip over.

    A safer bet is to use a sturdy extension ladder that has been fitted with stabilizer arms. These arms, such as the Werner True Grip Stabilizer, brace the ladder against the siding and keep it from slipping to the side. Its also always a good idea to have an assistant on the ground who can hold the ladder, and hand up the tools as you need them. Before you climb up high and get ready to clean, decide which of the following methods best suits your situation.

    RELATED: Never Make These 13 Mistakes With a Ladder

    Many leaf blowers come with a nozzle attachment designed to release a powerful air stream, and its perfect for blasting leaves and twigs out of the gutter. Position your ladder so that you can work from one end of the channel to the other, blowing out obstructions as you go. Block the downspout first with a rag or old towel to keep from blowing leaves into it. When youre done with the blower, flush out any lingering leaves or twigs with a hose.

    Has it been a while since you last cleaned your gutters? If it has, be ready for a layer of dirt and debris that has probably built up in the meanwhile. Blast it away with the fine-spray nozzle of your power washer. (This type of cleaning can get messy: You may have to rinse the roof and siding afterward.) For clogged gutters and downspouts, in particular, theres no better recourse than a pressure washer. Simply point the nozzle down the hole and rinse the shaft until water can run freely through it.

    RELATED: How to Pressure Wash a House

    To clean gutters manually, youll need a ladder, bucket, gutter scoop (or garden trowel), and heavy-duty work gloves. Remove leaves and debris by the handful, depositing what you remove into the bucket. When youre done, flush the gutters and downspout with water until you are certain both are clear and functioning correctly. Tip: If your downspouts are clogged and you dont have a power washer, try busting through the obstruction with a plumbers snake, then rinse with a hose.

    An ounce of gutter-clogging prevention saves a lot of time and goes a long way toward keeping gutters clean and free from debris. To reduce the frequency of cleaning guttersor keep from having to do it altogetherconsider installing a screen like the Raptor Stainless Steel Micro-Mesh Gutter Guard. It allows water to drain through the screen while blocking leaves and twigs.

    Other types of gutter guards, such as the LeafGuard gutter system, direct running water into the gutter but keep leaves and debris out. This type of system requires professional installation and is extruded on-site to fit the length of the roof edge so there are no splices in the guttering. A seamless run of gutter means little to no leaking and dripping.

    Though weve outlined various methods for cleaning gutters, you may still have some questions about the process. The following frequently asked questions may clarify certain points about this outdoor chore.

    Once per year is usually sufficient, after leaves fall in autumn. This is when gutters are full of leaves that should be removed before winter.

    The best gutter cleaner depends on the amount of leaves that accumulate and how easy it is to access the gutter. If youre cleaning from a ladder, a scoop is handy. If you prefer to clean the gutter while remaining firmly on the ground, a telescoping wand is a better choice.

    It isnt safe. While some professional gutter cleaners may walk on the roof, the average homeowner shouldnt try it. Follow some of the methods listed above for safer gutter cleaning.

    Hate cleaning your gutters?

    Hire a pro to do the dirty work for you. Get free, no-commitment project estimates from gutter experts today.

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    How to Clean Gutters: The 5 Best Ways to Get the Job Done - Bob Vila

    GutterPRO – Gutter Cleaning and Gutter Clearing Professionals - August 28, 2022 by Mr HomeBuilder

    No need for scaffolding, ladders or cherry pickers when using GutterPRO for gutter cleaning.Wecan do it quickly and easily using a ground based powerful vacuum and super light 34ft carbon fibre poles which can clear the gutters ofthree and four storey homes.

    This means wecan reach over garages, extensions, conservatories and outbuildings without risk to your roof, churning up your prize dahlias or Wembley-like lawn.

    There is no mess, because all the gutter muck issucked up, not washed out with water or scooped out by hand.

    Its safe, effective and wecan even take before and after photos so you can see how clear the gutters are when weve finished

    Even if you have grass, moss or ferns growing from your guttering, wehavent been defeated yet. You may well be surprised whats growing in there.

    Fully insured, fixed prices, no matter how long it takes. We make it really easy to book, see the work we have done, and offer cash, cheque and credit or debit card payments at your door. Its the GutterPRO way.

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    GutterPRO - Gutter Cleaning and Gutter Clearing Professionals

    Home – Gutterboy - August 28, 2022 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Gutterboy Gutter Cleaning Sydney are locally owned and operated with over 30+ years experience, and were here to help you out with all your guttering needs. We take pride in our work and we care for your property as if it were our own. Weve been caring for Sydney gutters and roofs for 30+ years now, so we know our customers and we know what they want.

    Dont have time to be at home when we come? Dont worry! If you prefer, we can even do the job while youre at work or out enjoying some family time because we know youre time is precious. Our fully insured crew adhere to WH&S standards and take serious, appropriate safety precautions such as wearing harnesses. Not only do they take seriously their own safety, but also take all necessary precautions to keep your home safe during any cleaning or repair work. Did you know we do more than just gutter cleaning? If you need Window Cleaning Sydney, let us know when you call or email us for your free quote and well give you a multiple service discount.

    See the article here:
    Home - Gutterboy

    Nonstop Air Duct Cleaning Austin Offer Top-Notch and Professional Air Duct Cleaning Services in Texas – GlobeNewswire - August 28, 2022 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Austin, TX, Aug. 23, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- If you are looking for professionalair duct cleaning Austinthat offers excellent services at some of the most competitive rates in the industry, then search no further than Nonstop Air Duct Cleaning Austin.

    Their team of trained experts ensure a fast response and great support with not only air duct cleaning for both commercial and residential properties, but they also offer an array of additional services, such as dryer vent cleaning, chimney sweep (also chimney repair and chimney cleaning), carpet cleaning, attic insulation, gutter cleaning, home sanitizing, water damage restoration, and HVAC maintenance.

    Nonstop Air Duct Cleaning Austin are committed to providing you with excellent customer service by always listening to you and any concerns that you may have, while always adhering to the highest standard of professionalism and guaranteeing that you receive the highest quality airduct cleaning in Austin, Texas.

    Improving Air Quality and Performance

    There are several problems that can be resolved byAustin dryer vent cleaning, from unblocking clogged vents and ducts, to fixing poor or unstable airflow in your home, identifying the presence of rodents or insects in your air ducts or helping decrease the amount of dust present in your home.

    As ductwork is an integral component of your HVAC system that evenly distributes the cool or heated air throughout your home or office, it is important to keep your ductwork in good shape through regular maintenance by a professional air duct cleaning company.

    Nonstop Air Duct Cleaning Austin and their skilled team can not only offer their high-quality services to ensure your HVAC and air ducts are working at their optimum level but have extensive experience in remedying all the issues that are outlined above in a prompt and efficient manner.

    Theirair duct cleaning Austin Txis essential to improve the performance of your HVAC system and are dedicated to:

    Not only this, but their trained team will use their knowledge to efficiently diagnose any problems that you may have to ensure that your heating and air conditioning system is performing at its highest level, so that you not only achieve your desired level of comfort in your home but also keep your energy bills low.

    More information

    To find out more about, Nonstop Air Duct Cleaning Austin and to see a full list of their professional airduct cleaning, HVAC system maintenance and other additional services, please visit their website athttps://airductcleaning-austin.com/.

    Source:https://thenewsfront.com/nonstop-air-duct-cleaning-austin-offer-top-notch-and-professional-air-duct-cleaning-services-in-texas/

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    Nonstop Air Duct Cleaning Austin Offer Top-Notch and Professional Air Duct Cleaning Services in Texas - GlobeNewswire

    Volunteers, house captains needed for Labor of Love to assist 26 homes in 2022 – The Times - August 28, 2022 by Mr HomeBuilder

    Since United Way of Eastern La Salle Countys first Labor of Love in 1992, volunteers of all ages have repaired and restored 919 homes.

    Labor of Love is celebrating its 31st year of helping low-income homeowners Saturday, Oct. 1.

    The volunteer Planning Team, under the leadership of Bill Cairns, Brian Lacke and John Levy, have been developing work plans for each of the 26 homes Labor of Love is hoping to provide services.

    United Ways Labor of Love is a one-day community volunteer effort to repair, restore and winterize homes owned and occupied by local senior citizens, veterans, people with disabilities and low-income families.

    As in past years, Labor of Love is planning for hundreds of community volunteers to unite and fan out across our local communities to provide free home repair services to neighbors in need of help. Organizers are seeking skilled and unskilled volunteers to help perform small miracles for deserving homeowners who cannot do the work themselves and do not have the means to hire the work done.

    Anyone 14 and older can be a Labor of Love volunteer. Volunteer workers and at least one house captain are needed at every home. House captains provide team leadership and home project coordination. House captains will be meeting Tuesdays, Sept. 6 and Sept. 13 to select their Labor of Love home and coordinate plans for the work to be done. The meetings will be at United Way, 601 State St., Ottawa. Enter from the front of First National Bank Ottawa, south branch. If you are interested in learning more about serving as a house captain, call United Way, 815-434-4003.

    Skilled labor, the building trades and contractors will handle the most challenging aspects and provide the expertise; enabling volunteers of all skill levels to pitch in and help. Labor of Love needs at least 26 house captains; as well as all around handy men and women, licensed roofers, plumbers, carpenters, electricians, cement finishers, HVAC, flooring, siding and tree service professionals.

    Volunteer help also is needed to serve breakfast at 7 a.m. and lunch at noon to the volunteers, and to help with clean-up.

    Volunteers will spend the day Oct. 1 repairing, replacing and weatherizing to make the homes of elderly, disabled and low-income homeowners warm, safe, dry and accessible. Projects will range from roof and porch repairs; replacement and repairs of doors, windows, plumbing and electrical fixtures; repairs and installation of flooring, gutters and siding; general cleaning, painting and trash removal, furnace inspections; yard work, gutter cleaning, window washing; and smoke and carbon monoxide detector installation, among other items.

    Some of the repairs seem small, such as installing grab bars so an elderly person can safely bathe and move about their home, said Bill Cairns, Labor of Love co-chair and carpenter with Local 195/174. Other repairs may involve extreme situations where individuals are living with unsafe electricity or an inoperable heating system. All repairs dramatically impact the lives of the recipient.

    Local homeowners approved to receive 2022 Labor of Love assistance live within the communities and rural areas of Ottawa, Marseilles, Seneca, Sheridan and Naplate. Applicant ages range from 50 to 93. All Labor of Love homeowners own and live in their home, meet eligibility criteria, including financial eligibility and participate in a home preview process. Volunteers complete the eligibility screening, confirm home ownership, conduct home previews and approve home selections. Priority is given to homes owned and occupied by senior citizens who need improvements to correct serious health, safety and accessibility deficiencies. The deadline to apply was Aug. 1.

    You have to experience Labor of Love to appreciate the need that exists and the great sense of community that comes from working with other volunteers on a project to improve the living conditions for these homeowners and their families, said Lisa Zoran, Kitchen Committee co-chair. Labor of Love is possible because of the extraordinary local volunteer spirit that exists within our community.

    Individuals or groups interested in volunteering to help with any aspect of Labor of Love and for any length of time Oct. 1 can pick up and complete a volunteer form and waiver. The forms are available at United Way, 601 State St., Ottawa. United Way is in First National Bank of Ottawas south branch. Forms can also be downloaded at http://www.unitedwayelc.org. Both the volunteer form and waiver should be completed, signed and returned to United Way prior to Oct. 1. Youth, age 14 to 17, must complete a student waiver, signed by both the student and parent/guardian.

    As in previous years, industry and business, churches, organizations and high school groups have stepped forward to adopt a home as their own project, providing the necessary labor and muscle needed to complete work at a selected home. In 2021 more than 258 volunteers improved 26 homes. Contractors completed critical repairs at four homes, including replacing a floor, a roof, and converting a bathroom to be fully accessible, and Stevenson Transfer moved a couple with disabilities from an unsafe mobile home.

    The extent of work completed at each home will depend on the amount of contributions received and the number of volunteers who come forward to help on Oct. 1, said Brian Lacke, Labor of Love co-chair and Electrician with Local 176.

    In addition to gifts of time and sweat equity, Labor of Love is seeking the communitys financial support, Lacke added. We need your help. While we are all challenged with the expense of maintaining our homes, no one struggles more than the low-income homeowner. Today, more than ever, low-income older adults and families are placed in the position of choosing between vital necessities, such as medicine or making a utility payment; verses stopping a roof from leaking or restoring malfunctioning plumbing.

    Labor of Love works to ensure as many senior citizens and disabled homeowners as possible do not have to make these difficult choices.

    Contributions can be mailed or delivered to Labor of Love, c/o United Way of Eastern La Salle County, 601 State St., Ottawa.

    Call United Way at 815-434-4003 with any further questions.

    Originally posted here:
    Volunteers, house captains needed for Labor of Love to assist 26 homes in 2022 - The Times

    10 fall yard cleanup tasks and the best lawn products to get them done – Insider - August 28, 2022 by Mr HomeBuilder

    When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more.

    In a nutshell, fall yard cleanup entails preparing your yard, garden, and landscaping for the upcoming winter. By ensuring that your property is squared away and protected from low temperatures and inclement weather, your plants will be primed for productive growth once spring rolls around. This project might seem intimidating, but there are products out there that make this project much easier to accomplish than you might think.

    In addition to calling upon my own personal experience as part of a landscaping crew, we also interviewed two professional landscapers to help assemble this list of tasks, as well as identify the best products to get the job done quickly and easily.

    These experts are Douglas Dedrick, founder of Natural Landscape Designs, a Woodstock, NY-based professional lawn care and landscaping service, and David Angelov, master gardener and founder of Plant Parenthood, a Massachusetts-based garden design and maintenance company.

    View post:
    10 fall yard cleanup tasks and the best lawn products to get them done - Insider

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