Tips

How To Prepare Your House for the Freeze

By Michael LeBas / January 15, 2024 /

So, the winter freeze is here, and you haven’t prepared.  The storm will be bad and last for some time.  You are in a state of panic and can’t think of anything but the freezing temperatures.  Here are some quick tasks to accomplish in preparing your house for the freeze. 6 Freeze Protection Tips to…

Has the Drought Affected Your House?

By Michael LeBas / January 9, 2024 /

If you live in south Louisiana, you know the drought of 2023 was rough.  Oppressive heat and dry weather made life miserable for everyone.  One of the big consequences of the drought was damage to houses.  Thats right!  Has anyone noticed doors “sticking” or binding when opening or closing the door?  How about brick cracks…

Winter Wonderland: 8 Cool Energy Efficient Home Ideas

By Michael LeBas / December 19, 2023 /

As winter blankets our surroundings in a layer of frost, it’s essential to keep our homes cozy without breaking the bank. By making a few adjustments, you can significantly improve the energy efficiency of your home, ensuring warmth and comfort while saving on energy costs. Let’s consider eight practical tips. 1. Seal the Gaps: Winter…

What are Common Types of Wall Insulation?

By Michael LeBas / March 10, 2023 /

Wall insulation requirements vary for different regions of the country according to building codes.  The purpose of the insulation is to manage thermal (hot and cold) transmission through a wall assembly.  It should be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations to best serve its purpose.  Wall insulation is generally provided in batts, rolls, sheets,…

How can I tell if I have a post-tension foundation?

By Michael LeBas / March 10, 2023 /

In residential construction, post-tension foundations are associated with concrete foundations resting on the ground, or slab-on-grade foundations. If your home is raised off the ground on piers, you most certainly do not have a post-tension foundation. However, it is possible to construct a post-tension foundation on a raised dirt pad surrounded by concrete or concrete…

How can I tell if I have foundation failure?

By Michael LeBas / March 10, 2023 /

First, we need to understand what a foundation is designed to do and what the term “foundation failure” means. A foundation is essentially that part of the home below the living area that is designed to hold up and support the structure. Most often in this area that means a concrete slab sitting on the…

What are Common House Foundations?

By Michael LeBas / March 10, 2023 /

All houses are constructed on foundations – we all know that!  But what type of foundation do you really have?  Most people readily recognize a concrete (often improperly referred to as cement) slab and foundation on their house.  But there are variances to house foundations.  Of course, each house should have its own foundation design…

Do stucco cracks mean the stucco is not installed correctly?

By Michael LeBas / March 10, 2023 /

The location and type of stucco crack may provide some insight into if the stucco is installed correctly. But not every crack means there is a problem with the installation. Causes of Stucco Cracking Wall System Governmental, trade association guidelines and best practices allow for certain hairline cracks, due to the nature of the material.…

Should brick cracks be a concern to me?

By Michael LeBas / March 10, 2023 /

Your level of concern on brick cracks in your wall is directly associated with the type, location, and nature of the crack. Keep in mind brick is strong in compression (forces sitting on top of it) but brittle. A small hairline crack in a single brick is of little concern. A large, jagged crack through…

What are Common Electrical Problems in Houses?

By Michael LeBas / March 10, 2023 /

A home inspection was just performed on your house and a list of electrical problems was created.  Or maybe you are tired of the electrical system in your house acting crazy – lights blinking, fan wobbling, outlets not working or tripping, electrical power going out………… the list goes on and on.   Here is a…

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Has the Drought Affected Your House?

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HOUSETIPS - Southeast Engineers