Knob Tube Wiring 1

Knob and Tube Wiring

Loucas LoucaidesElectrical, Home Improvement Leave a Comment

What is Knob and Tube Wiring? Knob and tube was the standard electrical system that was used from 1880 to 1930.  Ceramic knobs were secured into wall studs or floor joists – these knobs were used as anchors for the wiring. The wiring was then fed through ceramic tubes that were cut into wall studs and flooring. In was by …

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Stucco Ceiling of the 1970s: Testing and Safe Asbestos Removal

Loucas LoucaidesHome Improvement, Renovation 3 Comments

Introduction In the 1970s, stucco ceilings, also known as popcorn ceilings or acoustic ceilings, were a popular choice for many homes and commercial spaces. This textured ceiling finish was not only fashionable but also provided acoustic benefits by reducing noise levels. However, what was once a trendy design element now poses a potential health hazard. Many stucco ceilings from that …

Aluminum Wires

Should I buy a home with aluminum wiring?

Loucas LoucaidesElectrical Leave a Comment

A lot of the time, our clients that are buying a property with aluminum wiring ask for our professional opinions on if the wiring should be replaced. The common misconception about aluminum wiring is that the product itself is not safe, and insurance and mortgage companies typically treat it as a high-risk installation. Aluminum wiring is in fact a safe …

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How to Make Your Home Energy Efficient

Loucas LoucaidesEnergy Effeciency Leave a Comment

What is an energy-efficient home? An energy-efficient home would be categorized as a home that uses less energy or that uses energy responsibly. Building codes have changed in the last two decades in order to make newly constructed homes more energy efficient. Buying an energy-efficient home or upgrades to an existing home will enhance comfort and help save on utility …

Duct Clean

HVAC Maintenance Tips for Winter

Loucas LoucaidesHVAC, Energy Effeciency 1 Comment

As Canadians, one of the largest expenses comes from heating our homes in the winter months. In older homes which are poorly insulated this may come at an even larger expense. That is why it is imperative that we maintain our HVAC systems. Most furnaces are going to be fuelled by natural gas; fewer are fueled by oil and electricity …

Vertical Floated Sump Pump

Peripheral Drainage Systems & Sump Pumps

Loucas LoucaidesHome Improvement Leave a Comment

Why Are Sump Pumps Installed? Sump pumps are installed in homes as part of a system that removes excess water from the foundation of the house. Sump pumps will typically be installed during the construction of a home but in some cases are installed after a house has had flooding or water penetration issues.  During the construction of a house, …

Insulation In Your Attic

Adding Insulation In Your Attic

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Is it time to update your home insulation? Here are a few questions to ask before adding insulation? How old is my house? Are there any government grants available? Am I planning any renovations soon? What impact will this update have on my home’s efficiency and my energy bills. The purpose of insulation in any house is to regulate the …