Today’s tile trends extend so far beyond their traditional use as a staple of bathroom design that you may not recognize them. While once the most attractive and innovative tiles had to be imported, contemporary handcrafted tile and stone products for home design are now being made right here in the United States.

Homeowners and interior designers alike are always seeking distinctive visual touches to make each home special. Here are five ways tile design can enhance a room.

Elevate small spaces.

Use tiles interchangeably to create a unique design. The Ann Sacks Radius Collection by designer Barbara Barry has five distinct modular designs that can be used independently or combined to create patterns to delight the eye. Creative use of a variety of tile shapes like these can easily elevate small spaces such as baseboards, fireplace surrounds or backsplash areas in a kitchen.

Make a color statement

Whether you choose a single color or mix colors to create a pattern, the choices can overwhelm. “I enjoy the soft juxtaposition of watery blue tones, soft green tones and the neutral colors of gravel,” explained Barry. While Barry is known for her love of soft colors, you may choose colors that best complement elements already in the room. If you’re not working with a designer, consider traditional complementary color pairs when making decor choices, such as red-green, blue-orange or yellow-purple.

Create a calm mood

The latest trends in interior design reflect the desire for homes to be sanctuaries. Inspired by the clean lines, appropriate scale and exacting proportion prevalent in Midcentury Modern architectural design, Barry describes her collection as “soft modern, defined by a curved edge for a sensual feel.” Barry adds, “In this busy world, I want to come home to calm rooms and quiet spaces.” Choosing colors, lines, shapes, and scale with simplicity in mind can help contribute to a feeling of calm.

Personalize your space

Find what appeals to you, and work with a designer or manufacturer who can meet your requests. In her collection, Barry provides tools for consumers or designers to customize patterns. Designed to spark the imagination, five distinct patterns in varying scales punctuate interiors with personality. Smaller manufacturers can personalize your project with their flexibility, customizing color choices and resurrecting a retired pattern or color, or even by recreating tiles present in a home refurbishing or renovating project. Make your space your own.

Create visual interest

Choose different textures through materials like wood, glass or tile to break up an otherwise ordinary surface in a room. Radius is available in all Made by Ann Sacks matte and gloss colorways, which can be installed as a singular color statement or mixed to evoke a unique, personalized design, whether to create a captivating statement-making wall or to cover an entire floor. The choice of tile adds a textural element to a room that can’t be duplicated by any other material.

Ann Sacks fell in love with tile while on a family vacation to Mexico when she was 13 and later used that passion to create a business inspired by those Mexican tiles. She hired gifted artisans to grow her business into a true American success story. Ann Sacks, founded in 1981 in Portland, Oregon, draws talented craftspeople to create inspiring designs in tile, stone, plumbing, lighting, and accessories. These creations are traditional in terms of craft but aligned with contemporary design trends. Today, the company includes the work of 15 designers.

Whether you choose to use tile in a more traditional way in your bath or kitchen, or to elevate another space inside a home with a more innovative style, use a customized design and select colors to create a unique environment anyone would want to call home. – (BPT)



On Target Home Inspection has been providing Full Residential Inspection, Certified Move In Ready, Annual Maintenace Inspection, Investor Inspection Program, 11 Month Warranty, Platinum Protection Package, Better Than Good Package,Healthy Home Package, Lite Commerical Inspection, Radon Testing, and Sewer Scope Inspection services in Chicago, Illinois and Surrounding Areas.

When you or someone you know needs the services of a quality home inspection company, we would truly appreciate you thinking of us. Call (708) 350-9449 Today or Click To Schedule Online 24/7 Right From Our Website

3 shower knobs | On Target Home Inspection| bathroom installation Orland ParkCraving a more beautiful bathroom? Resolve to make this the year that you finally create the bathroom of your dreams by Orland Park Home Inspection Simple Bathroom Installations.

Fortunately, you don’t need a major remodel. Consider these ideas for simple changes with big impact. With a little planning and effort, you’ll add to your home’s value and functionality, while getting the “Pinterest-worthy” bathroom you know will make you smile every day.

Project 1: Fresh, eco-friendly style

Transitional style is today’s most popular bathroom style, according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, and with good reason: almost limitless design potential. The American Standard Town Square S bathroom collection, inspired by classic American architecture, makes it easy to create a ‘put-together’ look in bathrooms of all sizes, with a full suite of fixtures and faucets that are easy to install for a stunning refresh.

Performing beautifully, you would never guess just how much water the Town Square WaterSense-certified faucets save: almost half the water of regular faucets! There is nothing better than a beautiful new bathroom. Easy on the eyes as it is on our water resources (not to mention the little extra cash you get to keep in your wallet when a lower water bill arrives!).

 

Project 2: Modern flooring

When you look down, do your bathroom floors leave something to be desired? Redoing the flooring is a simple weekend project that will transform the space. Tile is a great bathroom flooring choice because it is so versatile and long-lasting. It can be created to look surprisingly like other materials, such as wood. Creating unique looks that wouldn’t typically be possible for the bathroom space. Want to step it up? Consider heated flooring to add comfort and a touch of luxury. This top trend works with a variety of different types of flooring material.

 

Project 3: Customizable shower

A restorative shower experience is at the top of the list for a new bathroom must-have. Intuitive products like GROHE SmartControl make it easy to control the precise amount of water with a simple push of a button. A turn of the dial allows for accurate control of water volume and temperature. This makes it easy to change modes quickly, from when you want less water while soaping up to when you want more water to rinse off.

 

Project 4: Personal pampering

Bidet seats and toilets are a smart bathroom upgrade for a wellness-focused home. Drawing on Japanese traditions and technology, water cleans more thoroughly than toilet paper, so it’s more healthful for all users. A great option is the DXV AT 200 LS SpaLet with its heated seat, soft night light, fully-automatic cleansing wand, and adjustable water temperature settings. This bidet toilet will also score bonus points because it is designed for fast and easy installation. You can create your spa bathroom retreat a lot sooner than you think!

With these project tips that involve simple product installations, updating the look and feel of your bathroom won’t feel like an overwhelming undertaking. (BPT)

 


On Target Home Inspection has been providing Full Residential Inspection, Certified Move In Ready, Annual Maintenace Inspection, Investor Inspection Program, 11 Month Warranty, Platinum Protection Package, Better Than Good Package,Healthy Home Package, Lite Commerical Inspection, Radon Testing, and Sewer Scope Inspection services in Chicago, Illinois and Surrounding Areas.

When you or someone you know needs the services of a quality home inspection company, we would truly appreciate you thinking of us. Call (708) 350-9449 Today or Click To Schedule Online 24/7 Right From Our Website

a woman smiling holding her phone | On Target Home Inspection | Home Security Orland ParkFor many, the holiday season means travel! In fact, millions of U.S. residents travel more than 50 miles away from home during the holiday season. Unfortunately, burglars are also aware of these holiday season travel statistics. So, here are Orland Park Home Inspections Home Security Tips for the Holidays.

While many families look forward to the holidays, it is easy to get carried away with excitement and forget to prepare your home for your time away.

There’s nothing worse than coming back from a relaxing vacation to a stressful situation at home. So it is best to be prepared and protect your home before you travel.

Home security matters

It may sound simple, but it is important for people to remember to set their home security systems to the appropriate settings before leaving for travel. Investing in a high-quality, easy-to-use security system grants the ultimate peace of mind for travelers. If you forget to arm your system before you leave, don’t panic! Some home security systems let you arm, or disarm, your system by remotely accessing it via any smartphone, tablet or computer. You can also set up alerts to remind you if your system hasn’t been armed.

You could also invest in a smart doorbell that automatically sends a text or email to you each time the bell is triggered. Take a look at your security cameras to make sure everything is OK, or have a trusted neighbor stop by. Smart doorbells can also trigger entryway lighting to give the illusion that someone is home.

Remote locks are also useful if you are planning on going away for the holidays. But still, need to allow certain visitors into your home while you’re gone. You’ll be able to lock and unlock your doors remotely and be alerted every time the door is unlocked. This means if you happen to forget your house keys you’ll be able to let yourself in when you return from vacation. If you’re leaving your teens or young adult children behind this holiday season, you can get alerts for when they leave or come home. You can even set up emergency automation that unlocks your doors if a fire is detected.

If you’re still likely to worry with a home security system, smart doorbell, and remote lock, then consider video surveillance. You’ll be able to see live video of your home from your smartphone, tablet or computer. You can sync your cameras to motion detectors so you can receive video clips of movement as soon as the sensors are triggered.

Don’t let your home look abandoned

If your home looks like it has been abandoned, that is often a green light for a passing burglar.

It’s one thing to arm your home security systems before you leave. But it’s another step entirely to make sure your home looks lived in when you’re gone. However, there are a few ways you can create this illusion:

* Ask a neighbor, friend or family member to help collect mail and packages, shovel snow and move cars. Trick burglars into thinking you are there.

* Use a smart lighting system that lets you program lights to come on at specific times each day. This is an easy way to make it look like you’re home.

For more information and tips, visit USAA.com/ADT.

fabricated Home | On Target Home Inspection | prefabricated home Orland Park

While property appreciating is never a sure thing, here are Orland Park Home Inspection 5 simple steps that may help the value of your prefabricated home.

The majority of Americans believe buying a home is a wise financial decision – 84 percent, to be exact, according to a recent survey. Why is this such a widely held belief? In short, buying a home brings the potential for home equity and appreciation into your financial situation. For some, including first-time homebuyers, this can be confusing.

First, let’s explain home equity. To calculate home equity, take the total value of the home and land and subtract the mortgage loan amount outstanding. For example, if your home is worth $150,000 and the mortgage loan balance is $125,000, you have $25,000 in home equity. Also, home equity isn’t like cash on hand, but you can realize the money if you sell your home. Home equity can be increased in two ways: paying down the home loan principal balance or improvement in your property value.

Home appreciation refers to the increase in home value over time. Many believe that prefabricated homes do not appreciate as well as site-built homes. A recent report from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) suggested that manufactured home price trends have been broadly similar to those of other homes. While the index is experimental, an industry group commented that “The FHFA’s important new MH index suggests that prefabricated homes that include the land may actually appreciate at rates similar to site-built properties.”

 

1. Affix your prefabricated home to the land

Permanently affixing your home to land and converting to real estate may help the property appreciate over time.

 

2. Perform routine maintenance

Make a checklist and stay on top of your regular home maintenance tasks. Changing your air filter, clear dead plants from the house and other routine maintenance will keep your home performing well over time. These quick routine checkups can help avoid larger plumbing and appliance issues down the road.

 

3. Add curb appeal

Pay attention to both the inside and outside of your home. Maintain your yard and landscaping, pave your driveway, apply a fresh coat of paint, change the color of your front door or add greenery. These are quick ways that may help boost your home’s ability to sell.

 

4. Fix the little things

Neglecting a leaky faucet or not cleaning your gutters can cause bigger and more expensive repairs later. Tackle these tasks up front to keep your home in great condition and help prevent larger unexpected issues.

 

5. Invest in upgrades

Choosing upgraded materials and features for the kitchen, family room, and bathroom will make your home more valuable. Common upgrades could be a stylish kitchen backsplash, new vanity features or energy efficient upgrades.

Follow these tips to potentially help your home’s value, and if you’re looking to capitalize on your investment in your prefabricated home. Owning a home can change your family’s life for the better. If you are interested in getting started, Vanderbilt Mortgage offers home and land financing options. (BPT)

 

 

a couple budgeting | On Target Home Inspection | future homeowners Orland Park

A budget is an important tool for first-time homebuyers and current homeowners. Throw out any negative feeling you may have toward budgeting. Orland Park Home Inspectors are here to tell you that budgeting is a great exercise, and can free your financial mind! A budget is meant to be a guide to where you should spend your monthly income.

Budgeting can mean guilt-free fun. By making and sticking to your budget, you can spend money knowing exactly how much you need to set aside for necessities, and how much you can spend on other activities! Budgets are an important tool for the first-time homebuyer because it can help you make your move into a home with a payment that fits your lifestyle and circumstances. For existing homeowners, budgets can help you achieve or maintain financial freedom.

Budgeting can be done by anyone  

It just takes time initially to set it up correctly. Gather paychecks, bills and bank statements to get started. You can write down all this information or use a budget tool. Start by calculating your monthly income, which includes not only the amount you may get from a regular paycheck but also any money you get in government aid, child support or pensions. The next step is to look at your bills and bank statements to find out truly what you spend in each category. This accurate information will empower you to take control of your finances.

Do you see a surplus? That is great! You can take that surplus and contribute to your financial goals. Whether that be saving for a down payment, taking a family vacation or building a nest egg.

Do you see a deficit? If so, you can make the changes needed to balance your budget. You can cut back on non-essential items, like eating dinners out, to get financially fit. Having this knowledge is powerful and can help you take the right steps toward financial stability.

A budget is crucial for home ownership, whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or you currently own a home. A sound budget can relieve stress and help you feel confident in the way you spend your hard-earned income.

About Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc.

Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc. is a national housing lender that specializes in financing manufactured homes. In business for more than 40 years, the company currently services more than 200,000 home loans and works hard to tailor loans to each family’s needs. Vanderbilt has an A+ grade from the Better Business Bureau and is a Berkshire Hathaway company. For more information, visit VMFHomeLoan.com.

father and daughter reading book in living room | On Target Home Inspection | carbon monoxide Orland Park

Nationwide, temperatures have begun to dip as we prepare for winter storms. Whether your town is prone to nor’easters or milder winter temperatures, Orland Park Home Inspection knows it is important to be prepared for what winter brings.

This year’s colder weather has already brought an increase in the number of carbon monoxide (CO) incidents across the country. While this poisonous gas can impact individuals at any time of the year, 50 percent of CO poisonings occur between November and February, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

The Silent Killer

A colorless and odorless gas, carbon monoxide is known as “the silent killer,” and impossible to detect without a CO alarm. Estimates from the NFPA suggest that there are more than 80,000 CO incidents per year. What’s more, CO poisoning is the number one cause of accidental poisoning in the United States according to the Journal of the American Medical Association.

CO poisoning can be difficult to diagnose – often until it’s too late. Symptoms mimic those of many other illnesses, including nausea, headaches, dizziness, weakness, chest pain and vomiting. In more severe poisoning cases, people may experience disorientation or unconsciousness, or suffer long-term neurological disabilities, cardiorespiratory failure or death.

Carbon monoxide comes from any fuel-burning device, such as a furnace, boiler, stove, car, generator, fireplace, or cooking sources using coal, wood, petroleum products or other fuels emitting CO as a byproduct of combustion. If attached garages with doors, ductwork or ventilation shafts are connected to a living space, they can also be potential sources for CO.

Your Plan of Action

Home maintenance is also important to help keep your loved ones safe. This includes scheduling annual professional inspections for any fuel-burning appliances, such as the furnace, oven, fireplace, and dryer.

The most critical step to ensure your home is protected is to have a CO alarm. By providing protection against the deadly gas, CO alarms can make the difference between life and death. A survey from First Alert found that 40 percent of Americans do not own a single working CO alarm.

“Carbon monoxide alarms belong in every household,” said Tarsila Wey, director of marketing for First Alert. “If your home does not have an alarm, purchasing at least one today is the best step you can take toward keeping loved ones safe from the deadly gas.”

The NFPA recommends installing CO alarms on every level of the home, including the basement, and within 15 feet of all sleeping areas. They can be placed high or low in the room as the deadly gas is dispersed evenly within the air. Checking alarms regularly and following manufacturer instructions for alarms and all home equipment play an equally vital role.

Alarms

All CO alarms in your home should be battery-powered or hardwired with battery backup. To help ensure your family is protected, First Alert offers a variety of alarms. Families can choose an alarm that best suits their needs. From a tabletop alarm with a 10-year sealed battery and digital display to see detected CO levels in parts per million to a combination smoke and CO alarm for 2-in-1 protection.

Most states have laws requiring CO alarms in the home. To learn more about your local requirements, visit https://www.firstalert.com/community/legislation/.

If your CO alarm sounds, immediately go outside for fresh air and call 911. To learn more about CO safety or other home safety tips, visit https://www.firstalert.com/carbonmonoxide/. (BPT)

white kitchen | On Target Home Inspection | holiday ready Orland Park

Orland Park Home Inspection’s smart tips to prepare the kitchen and dining room for holiday entertaining.

As the year winds down, social calendars fill up with merriment-filled gatherings among friends and family. When hosting a seasonal gathering at home, being proactive can help streamline tasks and reduce stress. From whipping up a feast to toasting in the New Year, here are five ideas for getting the heart of the home – the kitchen and dining spaces – ready for holiday entertaining.

Simplify measurements

Chopped veggies and pre-measured ingredients can streamline any cooking adventure and save precious time. Fill the fridge and pantry with ready-to-go items as much as possible and consider smart kitchen enhancements that make measuring a breeze. For example, the Beale MeasureFill touch kitchen faucet from American Standard provides an adjustable set amount of water on demand, giving holiday cooks the precise measurement faster than using conventional measuring cups. Plus, the easy touch on/off feature is ideal when hands are full or dirty; to operate, just touch it with the wrist or the back of the hand.

Prepare meal necessities

To create a holiday table worthy of a magazine spread, prepare all the plates, platters and serving ware needed beforehand. This is a good time to take stock of place settings, too. (Important tip: Have an extra setting or two available for last-minute RSVPs or unexpected guests.) Whether it’s a buffet-style meal or multi-course sit-down dinner, make sure to have enough serving utensils for everything on the menu, from appetizers to desserts.

Stock all washing spaces

Baking, cooking and entertaining tasks generate dirty dishes for days, so get wash spaces ready with fresh sponges, plenty of soap, drying racks and towels. Rotate between washing and cooking to eliminate a big mess at the end of entertaining. To ease the task of hand-washing large dishes, consider installing a sizable sink that also updates the kitchen’s style. The handcrafted Pekoe apron-front kitchen sink from American Standard has a generously-sized single basin to accommodate large pots and pans; plus, the 18-gauge stainless steel material is stain-, heat- and chip-resistant.

Create clean, comfortable spaces

Clear clutter from common spaces where guests will be congregating for refreshments, meals and more. Focus on the dining room where guests will toast to a merry holiday but don’t forget the kitchen for visitors who might want to pitch in or provide good cheer and holiday conversation during last-minute meal preparations. Add extra chairs and seating as well as leaves to extend tables so there’s plenty of room for everyone and all the delicious foods that will be served. The goal is for people to feel comfortably cozy without being overcrowded.

Manage multitasking

Multitasking is a must for big entertaining events. While appetizers are in the oven, wash a few dishes. When the main course is simmering, mingle with guests. To maximize time in the kitchen, think about enhancements that allow multitasking with ease, such as the K7 semi-professional faucet with foot control technology from GROHE. Busy or dirty hands? No problem. Turn the water flow on and off with a tap of the foot on an activation plate installed discreetly in the toe space of the kitchen cabinet. This allows more to get done easily while helping prevent the spread of germs.

Holiday entertaining is simplified with a few modern home updates and smart cooking tricks. By focusing on the heart of the home, everyone will have a joyous season – especially the host or hostess.(BPT)

Disaster Attic | On Target Home Inspections | Attic Orland ParkWas that a squeak you just heard? A thump? What could possibly be making those noises inside your house, and what can you do to help get rid of whatever pest has decided to move in? The experts at Orland Park Home Inspection have some information on what might be going bump in your attic.

Birds

Chirping or flapping coming from your attic area indicates that a bird (or two) may have decided to make a home up there. If your attic area has high ceilings or open beams, birds will have ample room to fly around, perch and maybe even roost or nest. Baby birds hatching in your upstairs might sound cute, but you probably don’t want to deal with unsanitary bird droppings all over your attic.

Rats and mice

If you hear scratching, gnawing, scurrying or squeaking noises coming from your attic, you could have a rat or mouse infestation. These rodents can find their way into your home through a variety of entry points; anything from a roof vent to a poorly sealed window frame can provide access to your attic and the rest of your home. Mice, in particular, are excellent climbers, and roof rats – a type of rat – have been known to enter houses by accessing the roof via climbing on tree branches or nearby vines.

Bats

You might think that a tiny hole in your attic wall is too small for any pest to fit through. Think again. Bats, which can weigh less than two ounces, can fit through a hole as small as the diameter of your finger! Some species like to nest in trees, which means they could be attracted to the wood framing in your attic. Since these critters can carry rabies and other disease-causing pathogens, don’t try to remove the pest yourself. If you think bats might have made their way into your attic, contact a professional.

Squirrels

Rustling and other noises coming from your attic could hint at a lot of different critters. But if you’re hearing those noises during the day, that’s a hint that squirrels, which are diurnal, could be causing the ruckus. These animals are persistent and can damage the exterior of your home. They’re also easily excited and can cause more damage when they feel cornered, so don’t try to take one on yourself.

Take care of an infestation with professional help

You shouldn’t have to deal with a pest infestation alone, particularly as a busy homeowner with a long list of other tasks to tackle. Leave the critters in your attic to trained professionals, such as Terminix’s trained technicians, who can help determine the type of pest that has taken up residence in your attic and come up with a customized treatment plan. (BPT)

 

house exterior | On Target Home Inspection | exterior trends Orland ParkThinking of adding a deck? How about replacing the tired, worn siding on your house? Now that the weather is colder, it’s the perfect time to curl up with a hot beverage and start planning. Orland Park Home Inspections’ 2019 home projects can nail the budget and settle on the look you’re after.

“Updating your home’s exterior can make an older home look more modern, but it can also make a new build feel warmer and more established,” says Kristine Swint, an in-house design expert at Royal Building Products. “Whether you plan to sell, or stay and enjoy your new features, anything you do to update the exterior can maximize the value of your home.”

Swint shares these insights and tips that will help you get inspired and plan your exterior home projects in 2019.

Think “cool neutrals” for the color story

When someone suggests a neutral tone for your exterior, do you think boring beige and tepid taupe? When it comes to vinyl siding, you may be pleasantly surprised. Discovering there’s a broad range of color and style choices to meet your taste and design preferences. Including soft grays, bolder mid-tone blues, and warm earth-toned terracottas.

“Going neutral no longer means sacrificing style, or having your house look like all the others on the block,” Swint says. “Today’s neutrals convey warmth, comfort, and closeness to nature – all traits we desire in a home.”

If you need help planning your home’s new look, the HomePlay design tool from Royal Building Products lets you experiment with different colors and siding profiles. To get started, visit HomePlaybyRoyal.com.

Bring the inside out

If you’ve decided this year is the year to add a deck or a patio, don’t settle for an uninspired open-air platform. Today’s designers are remaking the deck concept altogether by bringing traditionally “indoor” amenities outside. Rugs, arbors, and high-design furniture will turn your deck into an outdoor living room. By adding a fire pit, portable furnace or heater, you and your family can spend time on the deck year-round. For a finishing touch, a floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door not only brings in more sunlight and natural views, but it also creates a seamless transition between inside and outside.

open interior | On Target Home Inspection | exterior trends Orland Park

But a great deck starts with high-quality materials. The last thing you want is to spend excessive time and money on routine maintenance. Instead of using natural wood, opt for a premium composite decking. Such as Zuri Premium Decking, that combines the natural beauty of exotic hardwood with the unsurpassed and exceptionally low-maintenance requirements of composite materials. If you’re interested in learning more, visit zuri.royalbuildingproducts.com.

Make relaxation a top priority

Home is where the heart is, right? So it makes perfect sense to make it into space where self-care is a priority. That’s why wellness and mindfulness have become huge influences in interior and exterior spaces, Swint says. To turn your backyard into a retreat space. Consider amenities like water features, zen gardens or even a shaded reading nook.

Reframe the possibilities of your shed

Garages and sheds can be more than a storage space for your lawnmower and tools. These four walls hold many other possibilities. Homeowners have come up with creative, free-time-oriented uses for these simple backyard structures. The options are only limited by your imagination: backyard bar, outdoor shower, or the classic she-shed or man cave. You can even make it into a home office for those telecommuting days. To dress up a plain shed, Swint says, add siding with complementary trim, windows (and flower boxes), finished with a sleek glass door.

Now that you have plenty of inspiration to transform your home’s exterior into a more inviting space, explore your options and visit royalbuildingproducts.com. (BPT)

On Target Home Inspection| Insurance Orland ParkOrland Park Home Inspector Identifies several myths and misconceptions that exist when it comes to insurance. For example, true or false? It costs more to insure red cars.

The answer is false. Car color has no impact on insurance premiums; however, factors like your driving history, annual mileage driven, the cost of your vehicle and other things will affect how much you’ll pay for insurance.

Insurance is one of the most useful investments. You can make to help safeguard your belongings and financial assets, but it’s important to know what you’re purchasing. Here are four things you should know about auto, homeowners or renters insurance policies. Insurance ensures adequate protection in the event of an unforeseen or unexpected loss.

1. Myth: Auto insurance covers all vehicle-related issues

Most states require drivers to carry auto liability insurance. This coverage provides financial protection. If you’re found to be legally responsible for causing injury to another person or their property. It doesn’t cover damage to your vehicle. However, or items were stolen from your vehicle or damage from a storm or vandalism.

Collision insurance covers you while your vehicle is in motion and you crash into another vehicle or with a fixed object, like a pothole, guardrail or light post. This coverage is typically required by a lender when you finance a vehicle.

Comprehensive insurance is coverage that protects your vehicle when it is damaged while not in motion. Examples of this could include vandalism, theft or an act of Mother Nature like a hailstorm or fire.

“When financing a vehicle, the lender may require you to carry this coverage until it is paid off. If your vehicle is older, however, and it has been completely paid off then comprehensive insurance may not be the right coverage because a vehicle’s value decreases with age. Consider whether the savings of not having comprehensive insurance are enough to offset the risk of potentially having a large repair or replacement bill,” says Kevin Quinn, Vice President of Auto Claims at Mercury Insurance.

2. Misconception: Homeowners insurance protects against damage from all natural disasters

Homeowners insurance covers losses or damages to your house and personal belongings. In the event of a fire, sudden flooding caused by a broken pipe, theft and even objects falling from the sky like airplane debris. It also provides liability coverage if visitors suffer injuries on your property. It can extend to events off the premises as well like if personal property is stolen from your vehicle.

“Generally speaking, homeowners insurance is designed to help you rebuild your home and replace the personal property if it is damaged or stolen,” says Christopher O’Rourke, Vice President of Property Claims at Mercury Insurance. “However, you may need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy to protect your home from floods, because these events are usually not covered by a homeowners policy.”

Homeowners should contact the National Flood Insurance Program to inquire about coverage for floods, rising tides or storm surges.

3. Myth: Renters insurance is unnecessary

Renters insurance is very affordable; however, only 41 percent of renters purchase it. And without renters insurance, you’ll have to pay out of pocket. If your personal belongings are damaged in a fire or are stolen.

“Unfortunately, your landlord’s insurance policy will not cover any of your personal belongings and it won’t provide liability protection if a lawsuit is brought against you because of a visitor slips, falls and injures themselves inside your rental unit,” says O’Rourke. “Renters may not be responsible for repairing the home they live in, but there’s always a chance their possessions and valuables will need to be replaced if they are damaged or stolen, so purchasing a renters insurance policy is a smart way to provide financial security.”

4. Misconception: Your auto insurance policy provides coverage whenever you are driving your vehicle

A personal auto insurance policy protects drivers in case they’re involved in a collision. However, there are certain situations where more coverage is needed.

“With the advent of the gig-economy, many people are turning to ride-hailing jobs, where they can be their own boss and set their own hours,” says Quinn. “Without the proper insurance, however, they’re putting themselves and others at risk if they get into a collision because your personal auto policy doesn’t cover you when you use your vehicle for commercial purposes. This includes driving for Uber or Lyft, or even pizza delivery.

“Mercury provides ride-hailing insurance, but if it isn’t currently available in your area or you’re using your vehicle to make money in another capacity like delivering pizzas, you’ll want to purchase a commercial auto policy.”

Insurance is a sound investment but can be complicated. It’s always a good idea to speak to an insurance agent. These highly trained professionals can provide expert advice and guidance to help ensure you are adequately protected. (BPT)

roden on pipes | On Target Home Inspectiona | rodents Orland ParkBetween the potential health issues and possible damage to your home, the last thing you want to hear is the scurrying of little rodent feet in your walls or attic. Luckily, Orland Park Home Inspection has these steps you can take that will help keep those critters out.

Once they’re inside, rats and other rodents can do a lot of harm to your home. This includes damage to electrical wiring, metal or plastic pipes and insulation found in walls and attics. On top of structural damage, the critters aren’t good for the people who live in your home. Some species of mice and rats can transmit diseases like hantavirus through their urine and droppings.

 

Block possible points of entry

Be aware of any holes or cracks in the exterior of your home. You may think a small hole is too narrow for a rat to squeeze through, but a rat may think differently – and may even gnaw the hole wider! A full-grown rat can enter your home through a hole about the size of a quarter. A mouse only needs an opening measuring one-fourth of an inch. Properly seal any openings you find to help prevent rodents from wriggling their way into your house.

Trim back trees and move debris away from your home

Tree limbs that touch your house can provide an easy access point for rodents, almost like a ladder or bridge. Some species of rats even nest in trees. Do some careful pruning to clear away any branches close to or touching your house. You should also keep any stacks of firewood or piles of debris away from your home. As they can attract rodents and hide burrow entrances.

Protect food from hungry rodents

Your house may be filled with food, but you don’t have to make it easy for rodents to find that out. Avoid attracting rodents that can eat and contaminate your food by storing it properly. Keep unpackaged food – even pet food – in airtight containers so rats won’t be able to smell it, and avoid leaving unsealed food sitting out.

Properly dispose of waste and compost

An open trash can presents a feast for hungry rodents. Keep outdoor trash cans properly closed and away from your home. If you have a compost pile in your yard, also try to move it as far away from the exterior of your house as possible. It will avoid letting rodents looking for a free meal to make the trip into your walls, attic or even chimney.

Call in the experts

Between work, family and other tasks around the house, it can be hard for busy homeowners to set aside time to proactively monitor their homes for invading rodents. The good news is that you don’t have to protect your home or deal with an infestation alone. Pest control professionals, such as Terminix’s trained technicians, can provide an inspection to determine the best way to set up a strong defense and get rid of any unwelcome houseguests that have already moved in. (BPT)