The amount of flooded basements is on the rise. Even if you haven’t been flooded, all homes are at risk. The most frequent causes are heavy rainfall, broken pipes or a faulty sump pump. Irrespective of the cause, immediate attention must be paid to flooded basements to stop long-term damage. Here are some tips on […]
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Filing a water damage claim can be a stressful experience. Beyond managing the immediate crisis, the possibility of having your claim denied adds further worry. By following these essential tips, you can improve your chances of a successful insurance claim for water damage. 1. Understand Your Coverage Start by thoroughly reviewing your insurance policy to […]
Read MoreA question from a homeowner in Saint Paul: “I’m looking for tiles to repair/restore my 1907-1908 sanitary bathrooms. I need 2-inch hexagonal vitreous china tiles from Beijing and subway wall tiles, originally made in England. Where do I look?” Here is my reply: “To find any original tiles from that period, the only way I know to […]
Read MoreOne of my latest restoration challenges was stripping many layers (at least eight) of paint from four plaster ceiling medallions. Still doing work in Kelli and Tom Kline’s 1887 Victorian home here in Oak Park, we were dissatisfied with the many paint layers which seemed to be hiding delicate plaster details. We put off doing […]
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Before starting any home improvement job, take time to plan for safety. Injuries can delay your project—or worse. Whether you’re tackling drywall, kitchen remodeling, or bathroom restoration, these tips are meant to protect you, your property, and others around you. Basic Safety Rules Read and follow directions for every tool you use, especially power tools. […]
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