Bell Harig Home Inspections Highlights Benefits Of Adopting Green Energy

Culpeper, Virginia based Bell Harig Home Inspections is reaching out to the community to share information on the different ways in which adopting green energy in their homes can help them save money in the long-term. The company's location and coverage can be viewed here: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=3797755706293345424.

Energy concerns have gained worldwide recognition over the past few years. With more countries enforcing and encouraging energy-saving measures every year, homeowners across the world are left wondering what individual benefits they can get from going green in their homes. As part of their campaign, Bell Harig Home Inspections published a blog post that seeks to raise awareness and bring to attention the numerous benefits that homeowners enjoy when adopting energy-saving measures in their homes. The article explores in detail why green measures should be adopted in every house across the US.

Eric Harig from Bell Harig Home Inspections says, "Making your home energy-efficient may seem to be an expensive investment at first glance. However, the benefits you stand to gain will be worth your money. Almost everyone knows that they will end up saving money in the long term, but not that many people know that, apart from saving money over the years, you also stand to gain some immediate benefits that will help you mitigate the upfront cost of this investment."

Harig explains that homeowners who invest in green energy equipment are able to make use of Residential Renewable Tax Credit. This allows them to deduct 26% of the cost of installing a renewable energy system from their federal taxes, effectively reducing the financial impact that it has on their finances. The equipment that qualifies for the Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit includes solar, wind, geothermal and fuel-cell technology, with the only requirement being that they are used in the home. Further information on this topic is available here: https://bellharig.com/home-inspection-thornburg-va.

The implementation of such equipment contributes to the preservation of fast depleting energy sources around the world, though homeowners will also see the positive impact that these devices can have on their home. Certain energy-efficient home improvements such as new, double-layered reflective windows can help diminish the impact of temperature changes over the seasons, for instance. As a result, this reduces the need to use an HVAC system to heat or cool the home, extending its lifespan and significantly reducing energy consumption over the summer and winter seasons.

As appealing as all of these benefits may appear at first sight, Bell Harig Home Inspection states that it is most sensible to approach any changes with caution in order to ensure that everything is done according to the regulatory standards provided. Through their post, the company says, "For many different types of home repair and improvement jobs, permits are required. Though simple repairs usually don’t call for permits, additions or major changes—particularly those that involve structural work, electrical, heating and plumbing—usually demand that you get the appropriate permits from the local building department."

The company states that building permits are usually handled by the contractor or subcontractor hired for the project, though they advise homeowners to pay close attention to this matter as well. If a contractor suggests that a major remodeling project does not need a building permit, this may be a sign that they are either unreliable, inexperienced or working outside the law. Either way, the most sensible path to take in this situation is to check with the building department.

"Do yourself a favor and don’t ignore the legal and safety aspects of any home improvement idea you have. Otherwise, you may have a hard time in the future, particularly if you choose to sell your home," states Harig.

This is a situation that Bell Harig Home Inspections has come across on several occasions during their own inspections, and they state that such an issue can significantly set back a home’s sale or require a great deal of further investment to fix. That is why they advise the community to always consult with an expert before buying a property, as this is the best way to uncover any underlying problems it has.

The company's website includes further details on Bell Harig Home Inspections and their services. Interested parties may reach out to Eric Harig to follow up on any further inquiries as well. Similarly, the company can be reached through their social media platforms. Their official Twitter account can be found here: https://twitter.com/bellharig.

Originally Published Here: Bell Harig Home Inspections Highlights Benefits Of Adopting Green Energy

Planning Tips for Your Basement Finishing Project in Rhoadesville, VA

Orange County was home to the “Father of the Constitution”. James Madison, the 4^th president of the US had a 2700-acre estate in the county, known as Montpelier. This is also the county where Rhoadesville, VA is found. Perhaps you also have a home in Rhoadesville in Orange County, VA. Have you been thinking of making it more spacious and comfortable? Consider making your basement more useful.

Basement finishing is a good way to make useful space in the home. To have a good experience from start to end, create a good plan. This will help you to anticipate the process and prepare well for it. The following post explains how you can start off:

The Process of Finishing a Basement Remodeling Project

The first steps to a successful basement remodel includes starting small and thinking big. You also want to determine what your end goals are for your basement and what you are looking to get out of it.

If you are not sure where to begin, the fastest way to the finished product is to start as soon as you have something of value.  Yes, you may make some mistakes throughout the process, but learning from your mistakes is the absolute best method to learn.

Yes before you ask, you will need permits, but you can hold off on that step for the moment. So, are you ready to get started? Read more at Pharo Heating and Cooling…

There’s a lot you stand to gain if you finish your basement. Who wouldn’t want an extra room within the home? You could even convert it to your office or studio.

Once you start planning for your basement, having some options of what to do will help you be a step ahead. The following post gives you some:

Three Basement Finishing Systems: An Introduction

For many years, finishing a basement to create functional living space was a traditional construction project built from scratch, using lumber and drywall. Whether or not they were DIY affairs or built by a contractor, these finished basements were largely custom-built and required special techniques to limit the moisture in the basement, since the building materials did not hold up well against water. Custom-built basements are still a viable option, now there are also prefabricated designer systems available to make basement conversions easier. These ease of installation, of course, comes at a price. Read more at The Spruce…

You could make a beautiful basement area that is worth showcasing. You could create the ideal space to get away from the pressures of life.

The most important thing to do before you embark on the project is to ensure you follow the regulations. This will save you from disappointment once the work is complete. The following post explains this:

Why Do I Need a Permit?

A permit is a way of providing reasonable controls for the design, construction, use, occupancy, and maintenance of buildings, their facilities, and various components. The permit document shows that a building project is being constructed under processes for insuring code compliance and public safety.

In other words, the permit is the well-being of the community in a broader sense (and not because the government wants a reason to charge us). Read more at Hawthorne Basement Finishing…

If you need advice about the permit requirements in Rhoadesville, VA, don’t hesitate to call Bell Harig Home Inspections. We are passionate about what we do and deliver the best quality home inspection services in town. Your basement finishing will be something to be proud of. Call us today at (540) 881-0550 and be on your way to a great basement space.

See original post here: Planning Tips for Your Basement Finishing Project in Rhoadesville, VA

Has Your Rixeyville, VA Home Had a Sewer Line Inspection Lately?

Few homeowners remember to add sewer line inspection on their home maintenance list. The most probable reason is that a sewer line is one of those things that are “out of sight, out of mind”. Yet, as much as sewer lines are hidden underneath the ground, any plumbing system relies heavily on them. So, if you’re going to have a properly functioning home in Rixeyville, VA, you can’t afford to ignore the sewer line.

If you are not familiar with what sewer line/camera inspections are all about, you need not worry. The following post should help bring you up to speed:

What Is a Sewer Camera Inspection?

If you’ve done any research on sewer line problems, you’ve probably seen something about “sewer cameras” or “video pipe inspections.” Any plumber worth their salt uses this technique when diagnosing sewer backups or sewer pipe damage, so it’s wise for homeowners to know what sewer camera inspections are and what they’re used for should a sewer problem ever arise.

How Sewer Line Cameras Work

The purpose of a sewer camera is to be able to see what’s causing a blockage or backup within the sewer pipe without digging up the yard or just guessing what the problem is. Because sewer repairs and pipe replacements are no small task, this helps homeowners avoid expensive repairs without knowing for certain that their problem will be solved when the work is done. Read more at Len The Plumber…

You really don’t have to wait until you have a plumbing problem to call up the sewer line inspection experts. Prevention is always better than cure.

There are many ways in which an inspection can do your sewer line some good. The following post explains the benefits of sewer line inspection:

Benefits of Sewer Line Camera Inspections

The technology at the disposal of the modern plumbing team is becoming ever more complex. Now, teams can depend on the latest sewer line cameras to complete their repair and installation work, and this has a number of benefits for both the team and for homeowners. To help guide you regarding the value of sewer line camera inspections, we’ll highlight some of the benefits of the process in this latest post.

Quickly Locate a Leak

The leading benefit of sewer line inspections is they can be used to quickly find a leak or break in the line. A common challenge for plumbers inspecting sewer lines is the time the process takes. The longer that it takes to find a leak, the worse the potential damage from the leak can become. And many companies are harnessing sewer line cameras to complete comprehensive inspections of the line. Read more at Brothers Plumbing

You can prevent many unnecessary problems when you choose to call in the sewer line inspection experts. This may also save you from spending money on extensive repairs.

A sewer line inspection is also important if you are planning to buy or sell a home in Rixeyville, VA. The following post explains this:

Sewer Inspections for Older Homes

Few first-time homebuyers consider sewer inspections before buying homes. They know they should get a home inspection, but sewer lines are almost an after-thought. Yet this is one of the most important inspections a buyer of older homes should conduct because it can turn up numerous problems that can be seriously expensive to fix.

The time to find out if a sewer is faulty or needs replacement is before you buy, not after the fact.

Reasons to Inspect the Sewer Line

All buyers should obtain a sewer inspection if the home in question is more than 20 years old. The line might be fairly new compared to homes built before 1950, but tree roots can still clog it up over 20 years or so, and this is a fairly common problem. Read more at The Balance…

Instead of just hoping that all is well with your home in Culpeper County, just get a sewer line expert to check it out. This will give you the peace of mind you need about the condition of your home.

Bell Harig Home Inspections has a combined experience of 60 years dealing with residential property sewer line inspections. Reach out to us today for the best deal in Rixeyville, VA.

See original post here: Has Your Rixeyville, VA Home Had a Sewer Line Inspection Lately?

Bell Harig Home Inspections Offers Peace of Mind for Homeowners Considering Home Additions

Bell Harig Home Inspections wants to remind local homeowners who are considering making a home addition that there is more to it than simply getting a contractor in to do the job. Home additions are an excellent way to add value and enjoyment to a property, but avoiding all the pitfalls that can occur is not so simple.

Bell Harig has many years of experience with home improvement projects and the company can help make the project process as simple as possible whilst ensuring that all legal requirements are met. To aid homeowners who are considering a project, the company has published an article and guide to help make sure potential pitfalls are avoided at https://bellharig.com/home-inspection-spotsylvania-va.

The potential pitfalls involved in home improvement projects become more challenging when the area within which the home is located is an area of historical importance. The Spotsylvania, Virginia, area is one such area of the country, and as such it can be daunting trying to establish what permits will be necessary for the project. Within such historical areas it is crucial that all projects to be in strict compliance with local building laws. Homeowners are often tempted to choose a cheap contractor who is happy to go ahead and complete the project without getting the required permits. Even when a homeowner does the work themselves, such a choice can potentially be a huge mistake especially when it comes to selling the property at a later date. Obtaining the right permits is not as difficult or as expensive as most homeowners fear.

Eric Harig, a spokesperson for the company, said that people who don’t follow the permitting procedures can be taking a very large chance with their finances. “It can be tempting to think that a permit isn’t needed if your family does all the work. Some people think ‘no one will know,’ or that they ‘don’t need’ the inspections that come with permitting, but the thing is that if there’s a problem that should have been caught during construction and the homeowner did not secure a permit, homeowner’s insurance won’t cover losses at all. That little add-on room project can cause huge problems if it’s not done properly and legally. Our inspectors help give homeowners peace of mind.”

Bell Harig home inspections covers an area in Virginia as depicted on the map here: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=3797755706293345424 . The company will inspect and assess projects anywhere in that area to ensure legal compliance.

Building an extension to a property might not seem like something that local government needs to get involved with at first sight. Whatever a homeowner’s thoughts are on the subject the fact of the matter is that local, city and even state organizations can have a legal right to specify certain things about what any homeowner can do or not do with their property. Easements, and the dreaded “conditions, covenants, and restrictions (CCRs)” that are often found in planned communities, subdivisions, or other developments, must all be considered when planning construction of any type.

These restrictions are not optional conditions that a homeowner can choose to obey or not obey. CCRs act as a type of shadow zoning ordinance and are essentially rules within rules. These restrictions are in addition to municipal ordinances, and it will be necessary to meet them in order to avoid violating the contractual agreement with a neighborhood association.

Many homeowners have come to regret not getting the proper permits for a project prior to construction. The various agencies involved with building regulations can legally force a homeowner to obtain the required permits retrospectively. Not only that, but the cost of the retrospective permits will be significantly more than they would have been if they had been obtained at the proper time.

Those interested in learning more about the various issues involved or who wish to contact Bell Harig can do so through https://www.facebook.com/bellharig. The company also has a website at https://bellharig.com/ and can be reached by telephone at (540) 881-0550.

Originally Published Here: Bell Harig Home Inspections Offers Peace of Mind for Homeowners Considering Home Additions

Considering an Energy-Saving Home Improvement Project in Thornburg, VA?

Did you know that Thornburg, VA in Spotsylvania County had another name in the years gone by? It was formerly known as Mudd Tavern. You might wonder how that change came to be. However, it is known throughout history that human beings resist change. The comfort zone of familiarity often prevents us from venturing into the unknown. This, however, should not stop you from considering a new home improvement strategy.

Energy concerns are globally recognized. Anything that has the potential to either save or minimize energy use is acceptable. The following post highlights some energy-saving home improvement ideas:

Energy Efficient Home Improvements

Did you know that the more you use your air conditioning, the more quickly it will need to be replaced? There are energy efficient home improvements you can make that will not only make your home feel more comfortable, but also help your HVAC system last longer. If you’re looking at replacing your windows, roof or siding, consider these options.

Replacement Windows

When you think of energy efficient home improvements, you probably think of your windows. After all, last winter you probably walked by one or sat near one and felt the cold. In the summer, the sun and heat come through old single pane windows leading to a warmer home. Today’s windows are not only better sealed, but also have Low-e glass which helps reflect the sun’s rays… Read more at Peak Roofing Contractors Inc…

Making your home energy efficient may seem to be an expensive investment upfront. However, the benefits you stand to gain will be worth your bucks.

The good news is that apart from the long-term savings you stand to gain, there are some tax credits that are available if you invest in green energy equipment. The following post explains this further:

Energy Tax Credit: Which Home Improvements Qualify?

Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit

Equipment that qualifies for the Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit includes solar, wind, geothermal and fuel-cell technology:

• Solar panels, or photovoltaics, for generating electricity. The electricity must be used in the home.

• Solar-powered water heaters. The water heated by the system must be used inside the home, and at least half of the home's water-heating capacity must be solar. (Solar heaters for swimming pools and hot tubs do not qualify.) Read more at Intuit Turbotax…

The best part about energy-saving equipment is that the benefits contribute to the preservation of the fast depleting energy sources in the world. This is in addition to making your domestic energy resources secure.

The best approach to such an investment is ensuring everything you do meets the regulatory standards provided. For instance, some home improvements require a permit before they can be undertaken. The following post sheds more light on this matter:

When Do You Need a Building Permit?

For many different types of home repair and improvement jobs, permits are required. Though simple repairs usually don’t call for permits, additions or major changes—particularly those that involve structural work, electrical, heating, and plumbing—usually demand that you get the appropriate permits from the local building department. If you’re working with a contractor or subcontractor, this professional usually handles the permit process.

If your job falls within this category and your tradesperson suggests that you don’t need a permit, be wary and check with the building department yourself. In most cases, getting a permit means the work will be inspected by the necessary officials. Read more at Home Tips…

Do yourself a favor and don’t ignore the legal and safety aspects of any home improvement idea you have. Otherwise, you may have a hard time in the future, particularly if you choose to sell your home.

For all your home inspection concerns in Spotsylvania, VA, reach out to Bell Harig Home Inspections. Our expert home inspectors are committed to providing excellent services to our esteemed clients. Call us on (540) 881-0550 to schedule an appointment today.

See original post here: Considering an Energy-Saving Home Improvement Project in Thornburg, VA?

Facts About The Radon Levels in Your Stafford, VA Home

One would easily think that Stafford, VA and Stafford County, VA are the same place. However, in the list of census-designated places, Stafford, VA is known as Stafford Courthouse. Even so, the county was home to the first president, George Washington. One of the significant places in Stafford is The Washington Family Farm. This is where George Washington spent his early days. You should make a point to visit the farm. Yet, more than that, you would be happier to know your home’s radon levels are properly managed.

What do you know about radon? And what is there to know about it? Is there anything you can do about a harmful element that is naturally occurring? Find out more about radon in the following post:

What you need to know about radon

What is Radon?

• A colorless, gaseous radioactive element that’s extremely toxic
• Discovered in 1900 by Friedrich Ernst Dorn
• Elevated radon levels in homes was not recognized as a potential public health threat until the mid-1980s

Radon Health Effects

• • Radon gas decays into radioactive particles that can get trapped into your lungs when you breathe, according to the Virginia Department of Health. Read more at WSLS.Com…

Such information can easily cause distress. This is because the risk of cancer that comes with it makes it even worse. However, such basic information may not offer a solution.

How then, do you address these issues at home? How do you interpret risk and the recommended course of action? The following post explains more on these concerns:

Radon levels: What do they mean?

What are my radon levels, and what do they mean?

Measuring radon levels in a home or building is key to protecting the health of anyone breathing the air, but interpreting those levels is not quite as exact without a radon detector. As they say, everything is relative, and what is an acceptable radon level to one country or organization may differ from what is acceptable to another. This is influenced by numerous factors including the type of rocks and soil beneath a building, ventilation and duration of time spent in the building… Read more at Air Things…

This calls for a specific strategy on how to handle radon levels in Stafford, bearing in mind its physical location on the map of Virginia.

Need some practical steps to handle Radon in your home? The following post explains what you can do:

How to Get Rid of Radon

If high radon levels have been discovered in your home, there's no doubt it's time to step into action. Radon is a radioactive gas and a leading cause of lung cancer, which means that you and your family are at risk of developing lung cancer if you do not get rid of the radon. As dire as this news bulletin may sound, the good news is that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says that you can reduce the radon levels in your home by up to 99 percent with a radon reduction system. And you can augment this effort by sealing and ventilating your home.

Step 1

Hire a certified radon specialist.

Read more at Hunker…

Make the right choices and ensure your family’s health is protected by working with Radon specialists. The good news is that Bell Harig Home Inspections has all it takes to give you the peace of mind you need, knowing that your home’s radon concerns are well taken care of. Call today to get your home tested for radon.

See original post here: Facts About The Radon Levels in Your Stafford, VA Home

Bell Harig Home Inspections Shares Insight On Keeping Homes in Hartwood, VA Safe From Radon

Culpeper, Virginia based home inspection company Bell Harig Home Inspections recently published a blog post that informs residents and homeowners in Hartwood, VA of the dangers of radon and how they can ensure their homes are radon free. The company has over 60 years of combined experience with the maintenance, remodeling and construction of residential and commercial buildings. More information about the company can be found at the following link: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=3797755706293345424.

Erica Harig, a representative for Bell Harig Home Inspections, says, “It’s one thing to own and live in your dream home, but if it’s situated in Hartwood, Virginia, it’s all the more appealing. The region is beautiful, from all sides, and on top of that, it’s one of the ultimate holiday destinations in the United States—especially if you’re a fan of good wine. We speak with experience when we say that Hartwood Winery is the ideal place to visit whenever you have guests who just love good wine or if you're visiting in Stafford County. So, when you’ve got your house in Hartwood, you need to stay on top of keeping it safe and radon-free.”

The company explains that radon is a gas that cannot be smelled, tasted or seen. It forms naturally when uranium, thorium, or radium, all radioactive metals, breaks down in rocks, soil and groundwater. People are often exposed to radon by breathing the radon in air that comes through cracks and gaps in buildings and homes. As radon comes naturally from the earth, people are always exposed to it. This is why, during testing, radon test devices will be placed in the lowest occupied level of the home. According to the company, having one’s home tested is the only effective way to determine whether they are at risk of high radon exposure. More information can be found at the following link: https://bellharig.com/make-your-hartwood-va-home-safe.

Harig says, “Radon is also known as The Silent Killer due to how undetectable it is. Odorless, colorless and non-combustible, radon does its damage over the long term, causing the development of lung cancer in those exposed to it for a moderate to long period of time. The last thing you want is to be in a constant state of risk in your home. Why not ensure your home is safe for you and your loved ones?”

The company explains that, as radon levels can vary from day to day and from season to season, testing can be done in two different ways: short-term (two to 90 days) or long-term (greater than three months). Short-term tests are used in cases when the results are needed quickly—and should be followed by another short-term test. However, long-term tests will yield better information on a home's average year-round radon levels.

In the blog post, the company also explains possible natural causes for radon level fluctuation. One of the reasons the company provides is light wind or rain, saying that these weather phenomena can have a small but noticeable impact on radon levels. However, heavy wind, rain or other stormy conditions can have a severe impact on a house’s radon test levels. The radon levels of one’s home can become higher during rainstorms, and this is due to barometric pressure changes as well as changes in the soil beneath and around the home.

Harig says, “Radon levels are subject to environmental factors. However, you can take an active role in ensuring your home is safe for all who live there. The good news is that you don’t have to struggle with this issue alone. At Bell Harig Home Inspections, we are here to help you. Don’t hesitate to call Bell Harig Home Inspections so that you can schedule a radon test for your Hartwood home.”

Those who want to learn more about Bell Harig Home Inspections and the various services they provide can find more information on the company’s website. Additionally, the company encourages interested parties to get in touch with them directly via email or phone. Alternatively, the company can also be reached through the contact form on their website. Bell Harig Home Inspections also maintains a presence on Facebook where they frequently post updates, share blog posts and communicate with their clients. Bell Harig Home Inspections’ Facebook page can be found at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/bellharig.

Originally Published Here: Bell Harig Home Inspections Shares Insight On Keeping Homes in Hartwood, VA Safe From Radon