-
1 month ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Roxanne Downer |Dan Simms |Dan Simms worked
A backflow preventer is a plumbing device that stops contaminated water from reversing into your clean drinking supply. It’s a crucial safeguard that protects your home from bacteria, pesticides, and other pollutants that could enter through irrigation systems, burst pipes, or sudden drops in water pressure. Most homes with sprinkler systems, wells, or fire suppression systems are required by law to have a backflow preventer.
-
1 month ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Roxanne Downer |Dan Simms |Dan Simms worked
PVC pipes are a common and cost-effective choice for home plumbing pipes, but leaks can develop over time due to age, poor installation, or damage. A small PVC leak may seem minor, but left unchecked, it can lead to water damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs. The good news? Most PVC pipe repairs are DIY-friendly and easy to fix with inexpensive materials like epoxy, fiberglass tape, or slip couplings.
-
1 month ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Roxanne Downer |Dan Simms |Dan Simms worked
Few things are more frustrating than weak water pressure in your home. A slow trickle from the shower, a dishwasher that takes forever to fill, or a garden hose that barely sprays can make everyday tasks a hassle. Worse yet, figuring out the cause can be tricky, and misdiagnosing the issue might cost you time and money on the wrong fix.
-
1 month ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Lora Novak |Dan Simms |Dan Simms worked
Installing shingles is a run-of-the-mill job for experienced roofers but can be intimidating to people without roofing or home improvement experience. Even if you have construction experience, roofing work is one area where you need to be 100% confident that you know what you’re doing to ensure your own safety and to keep your home protected from the elements. Luckily, we’ve got your back and have put together this comprehensive guide on how to install asphalt shingles.
-
1 month ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Lora Novak |Dan Simms |Dan Simms worked
If you’re looking to replace your existing roof, you might feel a bit overwhelmed by the number of options you have for the material alone: metal, asphalt shingles, slate, wood, clay, and more. Even narrowing down your choice to the two most popular roof materials — metal and asphalt shingles — probably leaves you with lots of questions about affordable roof materials and how they compare in terms of durability, the installation process, and more.
-
1 month ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Hilary Cairns |Dan Simms |Dan Simms worked |reading Stephen King
If you’re replacing your home’s windows, two of the most common choices you’ll come across are vinyl and aluminum — and the one you choose can make a major difference in both upfront cost and long-term performance. Vinyl windows are typically the better choice for most homeowners. They’re affordable, energy-efficient, and virtually maintenance-free — with installation costs averaging $600 to $1,100 per window, including labor.
-
1 month ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Lora Novak |Dan Simms |Dan Simms worked
A weed-free lawn starts with timing your pre-emergent herbicide application correctly. Apply it too early, and it wears off before weeds sprout. Too late, and they’ve already taken root. The best window is when soil temperatures hit 55°F for several days—typically early spring or fall, depending on your region. A DIY pre-emergent treatment costs $20 to $80, while hiring a lawn care pro costs $50 to $150 per application.
-
1 month ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Jonathon Jachura |Dan Simms |Dan Simms worked
If you’re shopping for a budget-friendly central AC system, Goodman is likely one of the first names you’ll come across. Goodman air conditioners typically cost between $5,500 and $9,000 installed, with individual units ranging from $3,500 to $5,500 depending on the model. That’s significantly less than premium brands like Lennox or Trane, but the trade-off comes in long-term durability and energy efficiency. In this review, we’ll break down whether Goodman is worth it for your home.
-
1 month ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Jonathon Jachura |Dan Simms |Dan Simms worked
Fixing a sagging floor can cost anywhere from $1,000 for minor repairs to $10,000 or more for severe structural damage. The total cost depends on what’s causing the sag — whether it’s foundation settlement, rotting floor joists, or water damage. If the problem is caught early, repairs can be relatively affordable, but ignoring the issue can lead to more extensive damage and higher costs.
-
2 months ago | 
todayshomeowner.com | Jonathon Jachura |Dan Simms |Dan Simms worked
If you’re facing foundation problems, helical piers might be the answer — but they’ll cost you. Expect to pay around $9,000 for a small home, while larger properties can run over $36,000. Most homeowners end up spending between $15,000 and $30,000, with your home’s size being the main factor in price. Think of helical piers as heavy-duty screws that anchor your sinking foundation to stable soil.
