Every so often, we encounter a hidden safety hazard that many homeowners might not think about - double keyed deadbolt locks.  These locks require a key on the exterior and interior of the home.  Many times, these keyed deadbolt locks are installed on the interior side to enhance security so that the window or sidelight in the door cannot simply be broken and the interior lock opened by hand.  While enhanced security may have been achieved, this was at the detriment of safety to the occupants who now must have possession of the key to exit the door in an emergency.

​We often see homeowners leave the key inside the lock or nearby on a key hook; however, the key can be unknowingly removed by a member of the family or the key may not be readily located on a nearby hook by children or guests trying to escape during an emergency.  For these reasons, we recommend the double keyed locks be replaced and modifications to the door be made to eliminate the need for the double keyed lock (i.e. removal of windows adjacent to the lock, security bars over the windows, etc).

It is worth noting that updates to building codes nationwide now ban the practice of using double keyed locks in new construction.

We often get asked why radon levels fluctuate, often dramatically, during the 48-hour test period and whether there is cause for concern.  There are many reasons for this and the fluctuations are perfectly normal, but this emphasizes the reason that a long term average gives the best indication of whether radon is truly elevated in the home.

The most common reasons that radon levels fluctuate can be broken down into three basic categories:

1. Air pressure differentials in the home;
2. Use of exhaust devices that vent indoor air to the exterior;
3. Weather.

It’s the middle of summer and despite the 90-degree weather, you notice your air conditioning lines are frozen over with a layer of ice. What gives? Sometimes the solution is as easy as replacing the filter, other times an HVAC professional may be needed.
Common Reasons AC Lines Freeze Over

• Low refrigerant level
• Refrigerant leak
• Dirty filter
• Clogged duct
• Blocked or closed vent cover
• Closed damper
• Dirty evaporator coil
• Malfunctioning/damaged indoor blower fan

If you suspect your home has foundation issues, it may seem scarier than it actually is. Sometimes, foundation issues are not progressive. This means any damage that has occurred won't worsen over time. Although this isn't always the case, an experienced home inspector and licensed Professional Engineer can help you determine the seriousness of foundation issues and what to do about them.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas that forms from incomplete combustion of fuels, such as natural or liquefied petroleum gas, oil, wood or coal. We recommend installing a carbon monoxide detector if you have appliances which burn fuel that produces carbon monoxide gas.
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