PP Daniel introduced our very own R Craig, former contractor and now Realtor to share some of his tips and tricks to maintain our properties.
 
 
 
R Craig provided attendees with a handout of his standard presentation which is typically an hour presentation. R Craig hit the highlights in a very condensed presentation for us.
 
Craig had a contracting business employing 4 people, plus various sub-trades and suppliers before he got into real estate. Now as part of his role with Royal LePage, is he gives this seminar to other realtors.
 
He began with the foundation and emphasizing need to build foundations below frost line, typically 4' in southern Ontario but varies around the world.
 
Foundations may be block or poured concrete. Block easier to modify in future if needed.
He reviewed joists and trusses and how engineered joist superior to wood because there is no such thing as perfect piece of wood.
He emphasized good drainage needed and not to run eaves downspouts to foundations, best to direct away from buildings.
He doesn't like flat roofs, but uses dye to help find leaks, particularly for quick fix until time when proper repair can be done such as in winter.
Craig stressed need for roof vents or gets too hot in attics and shortens life of shingles.
Showed how to use shingle tabs (each tab = 1') to estimate size of roof.
Breakers vs fuses. Breakers cheaper long run and fuses can be by-passed with potential hazards.
Plumbing now all plastic and easier to handle and longer lasting.
If no water, can get typically 40 gals from hot water tank and with bucket of water can flush toilets.
He recommended putting stake in ground in spring about 10' from house, then in fall put out and inspect for signs of termites. If signs, they need to be treated before too much damage done.
Window panes, use flame and reflection to determine number of panes.
Mortar in stone and brick work extremely important to maintain. Otherwise a source to allow water into wall where in can freeze in winter causing more damage.
Craig like to use shot glass as leveling tool.