An exterior home remodel isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about improving curb appeal, increasing property value, and making a home more energy-efficient. Whether you’re dealing with aging materials, storm damage, or just looking to give your home a fresh new look,...
Short answer: A whirlybird (turbine) roof vent spins in the wind to pull hot, moist air out of the attic. Install it near the ridge over a hole cut between rafters, flash the base under the shingles above and over the shingles below, and pair it with intake vents so...
Short answer: Star bolts are iron anchor plates on old Philadelphia row homes that tie a bowing brick wall to the floor joists. They do not mean a house is unsafe, but new cracks, bulges or loose stars mean the wall should be checked by a structural engineer or...
The freezing of snow on driveways or walkways has always been a major issue for homeowners in cold areas. It can be dangerous, especially for the elderly and children who might slip on the ice. Also, it can be difficult or even impossible for you to drive your car on...
Short answer: Caulk alone works on gaps up to about 1/4 inch wide and deep. For bigger gaps, push in foam backer rod first (or use expanding foam for very large gaps), then caulk over it so the bead stays thin and flexible. Homeowner in Philadelphia or South Jersey?...
A valuable part of a row house renovation job is to upgrade the siding. Siding renovation will give your home a fresh, charming look and also increase your home’s value. However, when installing new siding in an older row house you could face many challenges. This...
The first line of defense against the elements is a building's facade. Exposure to weather can cause wear and tear, leading to cracks, leaks, and structural instability. If these problems are not fixed, they can get worse and become a danger to the building and its...
Short answer: The most common Tyvek mistakes are reverse laps that send water behind the wrap, untaped seams, the wrong fasteners and poor window flashing. To avoid them, install bottom-up, overlap and tape every seam, and flash openings in the right order. Building...
In 2025, Philadelphia homeowners continued to embrace outdoor living trends that enhanced their outdoor space. Since Philadelphia is filled with row houses, having an elevated deck is a smart way to use outdoor space. If you own one, there are plenty of exciting ways...
In today's fast-paced world, everyone needs a cozy spot to escape the chaos and relax. Life keeps us busy, and during the COVID-19 pandemic, people started to stay at home more than ever. That is why creating an outdoor retreat has become a popular trend. It is all...
A valuable part of a row house renovation job is to upgrade the siding. Siding renovation will give your home a fresh, charming look and also increase your home’s value. However, when installing new siding in an older row house you could face many challenges. This...
