Home Health Hazards

Finding a painter who is qualified to remove lead paint

Walk away from any contractor who is dismissive of lead paint dangers. It’s too big a risk to take, and it’s also federal law. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Steve T.)

Dear Angie: How do I find a painter who is also qualified to remove lead paint before painting?

How to avoid deadly lead paint

Lead poisoning can cause irreversible brain damage to young children. While the U.S. banned lead in most paints in 1978, the danger remains in homes painted before the ban.

Help! I think I have mold in my air ducts

"While it’s entirely possible that you do have mold in your air ducts, such claims are also a common scare tactic used by some less-than-scrupulous air duct cleaning companies," Angie Hicks says.

Dear Angie: We just bought a house to find mold in the air ducts... Do they need to be taken out?

Choose separate companies for mold testing, remediation

Experts say consumers should select separate contractors for mold testing, remediation. Much controversy surrounds the debate over whether the same company should test mold in a home and remediate it.

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Roofing

Does your roof need repairs?

Signs such as buckling, warping or degraded shingles may indicate your home's roof is in need of repairs, Bohl says. (Photo courtesy of Lindus Construction/Midwest LeafGuard)

When it comes to roof repair and roof replacement, it's never a good idea to wait. Learn about the issues that can lead to serious roofing problems.

Can mold from a roof leak lead to increased allergies?

Mold due to water from a roof leak could be a source of increased allergies, Leeds says. (Photo courtesy of Chandler's Roofing)

Mold growing due to moisture from a leak in your home's roof could lead to increased allergens, according to a highly rated roofing contractor.

Oklahoma contractors warn storm victims of potential scams

Oklahoma tornado victims begin to rebuild, but local contractors warn homeowners to avoid out-of-state companies looking to make a quick buck. (Photo by Katie Jacewicz)

AG distributes emergency packets to help protect residents from out-of-state storm chasers who may try to dupe victims into quick, cash-only deals.

Recovery work begins in Oklahoma, but scammers are at work too

Damaged homes stand tarped, waiting for repairs following Monday’s storm. (Photo by Katie Jacewicz)

Recovery efforts has begun in Oklahoma, but that means scammers and "storm chasers" are at work too. A highly-rated contractor on Angie's LIst gives tips on avoiding scams.

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Home Interiors

Navy veteran paints a brighter Pinellas County

Owner Chris Millen's services include interior and exterior painting, popcorn removal, wallpaper removal and pressure washing. (Photo courtesy of Bermuda Bay)

Pinellas County painter Chris Millen uses his navy and building backgrounds to keep up with exterior and interior painting projects for Seminole, Fla., homeowners.

San Antonio painter delivers sky-high service

Michael "Sky" King scales San Antonio homes to paint as well as hang and remove holiday lights. (Photo courtesy of Sky King Painting)

Highly rated interior and exterior painter Michael King offers painting, wall repair and holiday decorating as owner of North Central San Antonio's Sky King Painting.

Finding a painter who is qualified to remove lead paint

Walk away from any contractor who is dismissive of lead paint dangers. It’s too big a risk to take, and it’s also federal law. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Steve T.)

Dear Angie: How do I find a painter who is also qualified to remove lead paint before painting?

Hilliard contractor makes precision granite countertops a solid choice

Granite Transformations installer Jose Marinhak works on a backsplash during a recent kitchen remodel (photo courtesy of John-Marc Brooks)

Granite countertop installer from Hilliard, Ohio, wins Angie's List Super Service Award due to excellent kitchen and bathroom remodeling work.

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Windows & Doors

How much does it cost to replace windows?

Be sure to shop around to find the features, efficiency and price for the best fit. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member Clayton B. of Houston)

Learn how to calculate the cost to replace windows in your home and get tips on the different types and styles such as double-hung and high-performance windows.

5 ways to upgrade windows in your home

Solar window film comes in many different styles and shades to prevent the sun from heating your house in the summer months. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member Susan S. of Vancouver, Wash.)

Not ready to replace your windows just yet? There are things you can do to improve the look and efficiency of your existing ones. The best news: The changes are affordable and easy to make.

5 steps for hiring a window replacement pro

Window replacement involves making decisions on a variety of product characteristics. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Anne L. of Alexandria, Va.)

Finding the right window replacement contractor can be a headache if you don’t know where to look or which questions to ask. Here are some tips to help make the process as headache-free as possible.

Choosing the right replacement windows

Be sure to shop around to find the features, efficiency and price for the best fit. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member Clayton B. of Houston)

Good replacement windows capitalize on energy efficiency. They're durable, easy to maintain, provide better security and reduce glare and outside noise. Your budget will also steer toward your choice of windows.

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Basements & Foundations

7 tips for rubber or epoxy flooring

Epoxy flooring comes in a variety of colors to match any room's decor. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Bob S. of New Palestine, Ind.)

Are you thinking about updating the flooring in your basement or garage? Consider rubber and epoxy flooring options, which can be both attractive and functional.

Learn about your homeowner's association before you buy

If you drive through a development and don't see any RVs or basketball hoops, odds are they're not allowed by the homeowner's association, and judges aren't sympathetic.

Foundation problems can cause roof damage

Extensive roof damage caused by foundation problems. (Photo courtesy of Mark Nosrati of Final Cut Roofing)

If your foundation moves, so does your roof! So recognize that foundation problems can cause rainwater to penetrate your roof and cause serious damage. Know what to look for and what to do to prevent this from happening to your home.

10 good reasons to finish a basement

A finished basement can add space for entertaining, storage or living. (Photo courtesy of Innovative Basement Systems)

Check out these 10 reasons why finishing a basement can add utility and value to your home from a highly rated Fargo, N.D., basement remodeling contractor.

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Home Security

How to avoid water damage from AC condensation line leaks

Leaks from your AC unit's condensation line can sometimes cause costly hidden water damage, Zemach says. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Richard B. of San Diego)

Condensation from an air conditioning line leak could be causing damage to your home - learn how to prevent the problem before it starts.

7 tips to prevent a home break-in

Having quality locks installed on your doors can help keep burglars away. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member Ronnie D. of Houston, Texas)

Everyone wants to be safe in their home. Are you taking these precautions? Make sure you are taking the right precautions to keep unwanted visitors out.

Should I get new keys when I move in to my new house?

Getting new keys or re-keying your new home's locks are essential to ensuring safety, security and peace of mind. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Patrick F. of Colleyville, Texas)

A highly rated Portland, Ore. locksmith explains why changing locks should be standard procedure for new homeowners before taking up residence.

6 ways to keep your home more secure

An Internet-connected alarm system with home automation features can help you monitor your home's security while you're away. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Eric S. of Phoenix)

A highly rated alarm installation company shares six ways you can improve your home's security while you're away.

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Chimneys & Fireplaces

How to choose between vented or ventless fireplaces

Cost, efficiency and convenience make ventless fireplaces attractive to some homeowners. (Photo courtesy Jeremy Deal)

More homeowners are moving away from ventless fireplaces because they emit byproducts such as carbon monoxide and water vapor and produce a burning gas odor.

Midwest chimney sweeps and fireplace experts offer advice

The smoke from a wood fire leaves creosote on the interior of the chimney which must be cleaned regularly to reduce the risk of fire.

Making sure your fireplace is in proper working order can prevent fires. These Midwest chimney sweeps and fireplace experts offer advice on keeping fireplaces in tip-top shape.

Indianapolis chimney sweeps and fireplace experts offer advice

Even if you hire a pro to cut and stack wood, it's important to adequately prepare for using a fireplace. (Photo courtesy of iStockphoto)

Making sure your fireplace is in proper working order can prevent fires. Two Indy fireplace experts offer advice on keeping fireplaces in tip-top shape.

5 reasons to install a chimney cap

A chimney cap is important to your chimney’s integrity. If your chimney is without a cap, consider having one installed. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member Dan W.)

If your home's chimney cap is missing, or not installed correctly, here are five very good reasons to get a new one installed.

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Household Lighting

How to replace a light fixture

To avoid serious injury, make sure to shut off power to the fixture at the circuit breaker before starting work. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Libby H. of Boston)

If your light fixtures are dated or damaged, it may be time for replacement. Experienced homeowners can safely complete a simple light fixture replacement in less than an hour. Here is a step-by-step guide to replacing a light fixture.

5 ways to reduce your electric bill

Adding motion-sensors to outdoor lighting can help reduce your monthly electric bill. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member Jason B. of Simsbury, Conn.)

Saving money on your electricity bill doesn't have to be difficult. You can reduce your energy use without taking drastic steps. Follow these simple tips to operate your household more efficiently and easily.

Why do my CFL bulbs flicker?

CFL bulbs are more expensive than incandescent light bulbs, but they last much longer and consume less energy. (Photo by Josh Palmer)

Angie Hicks responds to a member who wants to know why the compact fluorescent light bulbs in her home flicker every time she uses the dimmer switch.

5 home improvement projects under $1,000

Lighting is an inexpensive option that can really make a big impact in any room. (Photo courtesy of Kevin Whelton)

Sometimes it is hard to budget your money on necessities alone. Here are five home improvement projects under $1,000.

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Construction & Remodeling

5 tips to get the best handyman service

Asking your neighbors about their experiences can prove to be a good first step when hiring a handyman, Dewey says. (Photo courtesy of Kathy Omen)

Before your to-do list of home repairs grows too large to handle, follow these helpful tips to find the best handyman service around.

Tampa contractor racks up unlicensed work convictions

Alfredo Santiago (Photo courtesy of Pinellas County Sheriff)

Tampa-based kitchen contractor Alfredo Santiago faces numerous criminal convictions and judgments for work not done after collecting large deposits.

What to know before remodeling a kitchen

Knowing what to expect and some of the latest design trends can help simplify your kitchen remodeling project, Picone says. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member John R. of New York).

Before starting a kitchen remodeling project, discuss needed improvements and kitchen design trends with your contractor to help visualize the finished results.

How should I turn down a contractor’s bid?

Most contractors appreciate hearing why you didn’t choose them, if you’re comfortable providing that type of feedback. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Alfred M.)

Dear Angie: How do I end a letter turning down a contractor? I have three quotes for a home improvement project and picked one to do the job. I want to send a letter to the other two saying I went with someone else, but I don’t know how to end the letter on a positive note.

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Heating And Cooling

Clean air conditioner coils help ensure efficiency

Keeping the coils clean boosts the system's efficiency, and increases cooling capacity, leading to a more comfortable home and manageable energy bills. Care for your air conditioner coils in just three steps.

Facing an A/C replacement? Choose a two-stage system

Replacing your A/C with a two-stage unit can save money and increase efficiency. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member Rosalie R. of Fairfax Station, Va.)

If you're facing an air conditioner replacement, two-stage cooling systems deliver savings and more. Investing in a two-stage A/C improves the comfort of your home, puts energy dollars back in your bank account and lasts longer.

What do air conditioner efficiency ratings mean?

This homeowner installed and high-efficiency 15 SEER air conditioning unit. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member Russell C. of Jacksonville, Fla.)

Manufacturers assign air conditioners an efficiency rating, based on the combined performance of multiple components. When selecting a new cooling system, look for SEER and EER ratings.

Choosing an air purifier? Check your options

If you're in the market for an air purifier, trying to make the best selection from the available options can be confusing. Here's an overview of the available options to determine the right fit for your needs.

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Contractor

Stamped concrete adds appeal to your patio

Stamped concrete offers an endless choice of color and pattern choices.

More homeowners are opting for stamped concrete patterns that mimic stone, brick or tile, and other custom designs. Resurfacing concrete is also a popular option.

Stonemason adds poetry to walkway and fire pit

"We settled upon a colorful mix of Pennsylvania sandstone, accentuated with bands of reclaimed antique granite street cobbles." (Photo courtesy of Matt L. of Portland, Ore.)

The Portland family wanted to add some unique outdoor elements to their new home. So they hired Matt Goddard of Poetry in Stone to install a path and a backyard seating area with a sunken fire pit.

Best Chicago Contractors of 2012

JEJ Masterclean owner James Jassak says his favorite part of his job is being in the field. “I want to build lifetime relationships with my customers,” he says. (Photo by Jay Madden)

Angie's List names the Best Chicago Contractors of 2012

Hire a mason to repoint your masonry before you have to rebuild

If your home is more than 70 years old, repointing or tuckpointing brick or stone masonry may require a specialist. (Photo courtesy of Keith Boyd)

Hiring a mason to repoint your brick or stone masonry can add lasting aesthetic appeal and lengthen the life span of your home's exterior.

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Insulation And Winterizing

Want to cut energy costs? Look at your attic

Proper attic insulation can help reduce the energy costs your home incurs. (Photo courtesy of Superior Insulation & Attic Ventiliation))

A highly rated Chicago attic ventilation and insulation specialist offers three ways to maximize your attic's energy efficiency and save on energy costs.

13 green tips to make your home eco-friendly

Buy water-based paints with low volatile organic compound levels (VOC). Basically, the less glossy the paint, the fewer VOCs it contains.

5 ways to winterize your home and get immediate results

Setting the ceiling fan to operate in a clockwise direction can help circulate warm air down to ground level.

If you're constantly dealing with cold drafts, poor insulation and high heating costs, consider winterizing your home. The following home winterizing tips can help make your home more comfortable this winter.

Adding insulation to plaster walls

Adding insulation to walls can make your home more energy efficient and lower utility bills. A home energy audit is a great way to assess points of energy loss.

Angie Hicks responds to a member who wants to know if it’s a good idea to add insulation to walls if the interior is plaster and the exterior is brick, and whether it will save energy and lower utility bills

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Electrical

8 tips to decide whether to repair or replace your appliance

Is it more economical to replace or repair the fridge or washing machine? The right answer depends on a variety of factors. Eight questions to determine whether to replace or repair an appliance.

How much will it cost to replace cloth wiring?

Rewiring your house is definitely a job best left to the pros.

Cloth wiring is common in older homes. While in some cases this wiring may still be safe, if becomes damaged you'll need to get it replaced. What are the real costs to replace this kind of wiring?

5 ways to prevent electrical fires

Because electrical work can lead to injury or fire if not done correctly, it’s best to leave these repairs to a professional. (Photo by Ray Mata)

Electrical fires can occur for a variety of reasons, such as overburdened outlets, frayed cords and faulty wiring. See how to protect your home and family from dangerous electrical fires.

5 tips for going solar

(Photo courtesy of Solar Energy World

A highly rated Baltimore-based solar energy panel installer offers five tips to consider before installing solar panels.

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Landscaping

Engineering background helps Fortville tree service grow

Applied Tree is insured and follows safety guidelines and industry best practices, including not topping trees. (Photo courtesy of Greg Whisenand)

Greg Whisenand of Applied Tree Service, a highly rated tree company in Fortville, Indiana, uses his engineering background to assess structural integrity.

How much does professional lawn care service cost?

A weekly mow can run anywhere from $20 to $25, and you may pay more for the first mow of the season. Expect to pay between $80 and $100 per month for mowing, weeding and fertilizing service, and up to $200 per month if you go with a yearly plan which includes flower bed weeding, aeration, fall cleanups and tree trimming. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Ed G.)

Professional lawn care services can keep your yard looking great all season long, but come with a cost. Knowing how to evaluate companies (and their services) will help make sure you don't overpay for lawn care.

How to fill in the gaps in your garden

Kick up an herbal fragrance by planting thyme amid steppingstone. (Photo courtesy of Stepables.com)

Looking to fill space in your garden? Angie's List gardening expert helps you select the right plants to grow in the tiny spaces of your home garden.

Tree service pros branch out after D.C.-area storms

A Gordon W. Frazier Tree Service technician trims a tree's crown to help prevent future storm damage. (Photo courtesy of Gordon Frazier)

When major storms hit the D.C. area, Angie's List members turned to highly rated tree service pros to help clean up the damage and debris.

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Flooring

Choosing the right hardwood flooring for your home

Bamboo flooring can add panache to your dining room. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member John M. of Virginian Beach, Va.)

Hardwood flooring adds an extra touch of beauty to any home, but not all woods are suited for all homes. Find out which types of flooring can work best for the rooms of your house.

Lawrenceville flooring pro keeps business personal

Pro Flooring 323 installs carpet, hardwood and tile, but also does flooring restoration and repairs. (Photo courtesy of Cesar Del Aguila)

Pro Flooring 323 of Lawrenceville, Georgia, grows thanks to owner Cesar Del Aguila's love of flooring and carpet installation in Atlanta area.

What to expect when refinishing hardwood floors

If wanting to refinish your wood floors, find an expert who can do the job right. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member Nick K. of Dearborn, Mich.)

Knowing what to expect before you begin having your hardwood floors refinished depends on a variety of factors. Chief among these are understanding the process and working closely with your contractor.

When should you refinish hardwood floors?

Floor refinishing is a process that takes planning and preparation. Know what to expect before beginning the process in your home. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member Gigel B. of Chicago)

At first glance, the answer seems simple: Refinish wood floors when they need it. That kind of thinking just barely scratches the surface because you need to take plenty of considerations into account first.

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Outdoor Living

San Antonio contractor builds screened-in porch on existing slab

Diggs' new sceened-in porch even includes a doggy door. (Photo courtesy of Ron Diggs)

Texas home remodeling contractor Lone Star State Construction built the perfect screened-in porch with skylights for a San Antonio Angie's List member.

San Diego contractor replaces wood with composite decking

Best-Rate Repair removed and replaced a 630-square-foot deck at Davis' home in Lemon Grove. (Photo courtesy of James Davis)

San Diego wood repair contractor Best-Rate Repair removed an old wooden deck on a Lemon Grove home and replaced the deck it with composite decking.

Deck maintenance

Keeping your wooden deck looking its best requires regular maintenance and upkeep. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member James H. of Egan, Minn.)
A wood deck is a large investment that can add value and visual appeal to your property while giving you an attractive place to relax outdoors. But even well-constructed decks will start looking shabby after a few years if you don't take the right precautions, keep up maintenance and clean your deck regularly.

Watch the lowest bid when building a home swimming pool

Pool Environments in Plano, Texas, finished this pool for a Park Cities customer in January. (Photo by Eric Priddy)

While owning a swimming pool may seem like a dream come true for some homeowners, others who have gone through the building 
and servicing process offer cautionary tales.

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Garages & Driveways

Herndon home organizer shares tips of the trade

When organizing customers' homes, Johnson starts with storage areas before setting up rooms. (Photo courtesy of Jackie Johnson)

Jackie Johnson, a highly rated Virginia-area professional organizer shares home organization tips to clear away the clutter and save more space.

Houston home organizers help homeowners reclaim their spaces

Houston organizers suggest hiring help when tasks become overwhelming. (Photo courtesy of Neitra Blair)

Highly rated home and garage organization professionals in Houston help struggling homeowners clear out the clutter and reclaim their spaces.

Learn about your homeowner's association before you buy

If you drive through a development and don't see any RVs or basketball hoops, odds are they're not allowed by the homeowner's association, and judges aren't sympathetic.

How to organize your garage

Garage clutter may be costing you more than you think, McElroy says. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Ariel D. of Fayetteville, NY)

When's the last time your car saw the inside of your garage? If it's been too long, follow this 4-step process from a highly rated Fresno, Calif. organizer.

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Pests

How much does DIY pest control cost?

Angie's List member Murali K. submitted this photo of the hole where mice were entering her kitchen.

Are you struggling with a pest problem? DIY pest control can be effective and it doesn't have to be expensive. Get an idea of how much DIY pest control costs.

4 affordable ways to control pests

Angie's List member Wendy D. submitted this photo of termite damage to her garage wall.

Learn how to free your home from bugs, rodents, termites and other pests with these four DIY pest control methods that are inexpensive and affordable.

DIY pest control tips

Angie's List member Kate B. submitted this photo of the damage rats caused to her crawl space.

Are pests invading your home? Not all pest control problems require the help of a professional exterminator. Check out these effective, DIY pest control tips.

Do I have moles in my yard?

Moles create surface tunnels and dirt mounds that resemble mini volcanoes. If you have dirt mounds in your yard, it's more likely that you have a mole. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Tim K.)

Do you have tunnels, mounds or sinking spots in your lawn? These are all warning signs that you have a mole problem. Get tips on identifying and removing moles.

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Home Appliances

5 tips to maintain your fridge and oven

Maintain your kitchen appliances to keep them in proper working order. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Greg D. of Roseville, Minn.)

If you're preparing for a holiday or other event that requires a lot of home-cooking, take time in the weeks before the event to ensure that your major appliances are operating efficiently and will be able to handle the job. Here are five tips.

8 tips to decide whether to repair or replace your appliance

Is it more economical to replace or repair the fridge or washing machine? The right answer depends on a variety of factors. Eight questions to determine whether to replace or repair an appliance.

5 parts that can lead to a washer or dryer repair

If you're washer's not washing or your dryer's not drying, you might want to call a pro. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member Maurice F. of San Antonio, Texas)

It may seem at first glance like fixing a malfunctioning washer or dryer is easy, but consider relying on a professional repairman instead--especially when it comes to replacing these common parts.

How to avoid appliance repairs

Periodically maintaining appliances can help you avoid breakdowns and appliance repairs. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member John H. of Silver Spring, Md.)

A highly rated appliance repair technician shares his tips to help consumers avoid appliance breakdowns and repairs, prolong the lifespan of large appliances, and and save money.

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Plumbing

Do you know where your plumbing shut-off valve is?

Learning the ins and outs of your home water system can help save you from a costly plumbing diaster, Watkins-Bradt says. (Photo courtesy of Beaver Plumbing & Heating Inc)

Familiarizing yourself with your home's potable water system can help you avoid costly water damages and save you time and money.

Plumbing: Save money, avoid a disaster with an inspection

If you're unsure of the quality of your home's plumbing products, a plumbing inspection can provide peace of mind, Davis says. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Eugene B. of Seatte)

A plumbing inspection can reveal key flaws or faults with your home's plumbing, potentially saving money and helping you avoid a potential plumbing disaster.

Easy ways to conserve water

Don't let your money go down the drain! Brittany Bohl offers tips to save money on your water bill. (Photo courtesy of Katie Jacewicz)

If your water bill is skyrocketing, follow some of these simple steps to help save money without altering your lifestyle.

Potential costs of a plumbing leak

When pipes running behind walls burst or begin to leak, they moisten the drywall; eventually, this moisture makes its way through the walls and produces wet spots. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Gloria A. of Hollywood, Fla.)

Fixing your bathroom plumbing can be expensive, but the expense of a leak left untreated can be even higher. Here are some of the most common potential costs of an untreated plumbing issue.

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Home Exteriors

Finding a painter who is qualified to remove lead paint

Walk away from any contractor who is dismissive of lead paint dangers. It’s too big a risk to take, and it’s also federal law. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Steve T.)

Dear Angie: How do I find a painter who is also qualified to remove lead paint before painting?

Pressure Washing

Pressure washers are a great way to tackle outside cleaning projects. For smaller jobs, a store-bought washer and the investment of several hours are usually enough; larger tasks benefit from the power of a professional service. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Brian M. of Roswell, Ga.)
When it comes to keeping your home exterior, sidewalk and deck clean, there are a myriad of options available. One of the most popular (and efficient) is pressure washing – using a gas or electric-powered appliance, you can scour off dirt and blast away grime. Proper use and safety, however, is critical.

6 tips to tidy up outside

Photos courtesy of members Rand R., Josh P., Heather G., Erik H., Dianne T., Brian W., who uploaded these images with their online reviews in the Mailbox Repair, Pressure Washing and Painting - Exterior categories.

Spring cleaning isn’t limited to just indoor activities. See how to improve your home's exterior, such as power washing, fixing the mailbox and painting trim.

Learn about your homeowner's association before you buy

If you drive through a development and don't see any RVs or basketball hoops, odds are they're not allowed by the homeowner's association, and judges aren't sympathetic.

See More About Home Exteriors

Real Estate

Gilbert movers change industry perceptions

Bernadette and husband Ray celebrate their new location's opening with Gilbert Mayor John Lewis (middle). (Photo by Bernadette Lavigne)

Gilbert, Ariz., moving company Always Professional in Moving lives up to its name and aims to give household movers a good name in the Phoenix area.

Portland company makes home picture perfect

Room Solutions Staging set up Nenni-Daher’s home for Realtor photographs and home showings. (Photo courtesy of Sarah Nenni-Daher)

Room Solutions Staging, a highly rated home staging company in Portland, Ore., impresses homeowner and realtors with picture-perfect home makeover.

How to choose the right moving services

A simple move is the most commonly requested moving service and requires the consumer to pack and box their belongings while the moving company handles the loading and unloading duties, Lallouz says. (Photo courtesy of Dry Ridge Moving)

As the moving industry expands, there are now more choices than ever to help fit the exact needs of your move. Learn how to pick the right service.

What does real estate jargon really mean?

A home listed as being in "move-in condition" is fairly self-explanatory and evokes images of a pristine home that the buyer can compare to the listing pictures to get an accurate perception of the home. (Photo courtesy of Angie's List member Sandra R.)

Real estate listing details can be confusing. Knowing what to look for can mean the difference between a hidden gem and a downright dud. Here's what you need to know to cut through the real estate jargon to find a home that's right for you.

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