Home Care Myths
With all the tips and tricks out there for how to care for your home, how do you know what’s really true. Let’s debunk 8 of those myths that turned out to be full of hot air.
Stone Countertops are indestructible. Actually, Stone countertops are easily stained and scratched. Plus, household cleaners and acidic substances like soda, coffee, and wine can dull stone countertops over time.
Your smoke detector test button is foolproof. The test button actually only tells you the sound is working not that it will detect smoke. Instead use real smoke to test it. If the alarm goes off it’s working. Simple right?!
Gutter Guards mean you never have to clean the gutters again. Gutter guards may keep out leaves but the small debris still gets through and leaves can even get stuck on them. You still need to get up there and clean your gutters once a year. Sorry 🙁
Drop lemon in your disposal to clean it. Actually, the acid in lemons will corrode the metal in your disposal. Coffee grounds don’t work either because they clog the pipes. The best cleaner to use is baking soda which will clean the blades without damaging them.
Mow your lawn short so you don’t have to mow it as often. Cutting your grass less than 1-3 inches will actually kill it. Grass won’t be able to ward off weeds and bugs and causes it to dry out. But hey, you could always hire a lawn service to do it for you!
CFL’s are expensive and dangerous. In comparison to other bulbs, compact florescents are actually cheaper in the long run because they last about 5 years. Also, there isn’t enough mercury to cause any harm.
An on trend kitchen remodel with increase your value. Trends come and go so skip the trendy remodel and opt for simply painting with a trendy color. Choose upgrades that are timeless like hardwood floors and subway tile. The greats never go out of style. 😉
Taking a friend’s word alone on a vendor recommendation. Interview vendors like you would any employee because your trusting them with your home and your money. Check reviews, talk to several people about who they recommend, and maybe even your local inspector who solidly performs work to code.