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Types of Magnolia Trees

. Posted by in • Austin
southern magnolia tree

Did you know that there are more than 200 species of magnolia trees? In Central Texas, four main types thrive in our warm weather and sunlight: southern magnolia trees, little gem magnolia trees, saucer magnolia trees and star magnolia trees.

Each type of magnolia tree produces stunning flowers that make them the focal point of any lawn or garden. However, they have different care and maintenance needs, so it’s helpful for homeowners to understand the difference between each type.

Southern Magnolia

The southern magnolia tree, pictured above, is beloved for its large, velvety, dark green leaves. It grows larger than other types of magnolia trees, and some can reach up to 80 feet tall. Because of its noble size and appearance, this tree is also known as the “Grand Dame” of the magnolia tree family.

Southern magnolia trees produce beautiful and fragrant white flowers that grow as large as 12 inches in diameter. With … Read Full Post »

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Ground Moles: Identification Guide

. Posted by in , • Dallas-Fort Worth
a ground mole

Do you know how to identify moles? These pesky creatures live most of their lives underground, making a mole sighting rare for homeowners. However, it’s important for homeowners to understand mole behavior.

You can try several at-home remedies to deter moles from entering your yard. However, once the moles are there, you need to work with a pest control specialist to control them.

An expert will have the right tools and expertise to deal with the problem. They can also help you implement prevention methods to minimize the likelihood of moles coming back in the future.

Ground Moles: Identification Guide

Did you know that ground moles are mammals? These critters feed on grubs, worms and insects and can ingest 60 to 80% of their body weight daily.

Because they eat bugs, ground moles are incredibly beneficial to the ecosystem. However, that doesn’t mean that you want them living on your property.

Ground moles live in tunnels … Read Full Post »

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When Do Mosquitoes Come Out? How To Avoid These Pests

. Posted by in , • San Antonio
mosquitoes on a person's arm

As winter winds down, the days grow longer and the weather slowly begins to warm up. The beauty of it all almost makes us forget that it’s about time for mosquitoes to come out again. As many people know, mosquitoes are more active when it’s warmer outside. This is unfortunate because the same is also true for humans. Many of us, especially those of us with pleasant outdoor spaces, hope to get in as many comfortable afternoons and evenings outdoors as we can before mosquitoes come out in full force once again.

Of course, different people react to mosquito bites differently. Not everyone finds them terribly itchy and annoying, though many people do. Additionally, these pests seem drawn to certain people more than others—is it due to differences in pheromones? Carbon-dioxide output? Body heat levels? Do some people just have sweeter blood? Are mosquitoes attracted to perfume? As you feel yourself … Read Full Post »

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Why Is My Water Heater Tripping the Breaker?

. Posted by in • Corpus Christi
an electric water heater

It can be incredibly frustrating when your water heater keeps tripping the breaker, especially when you need to prepare for the day. If you’re dealing with this problem, here are the most probable causes and how to troubleshoot them.

It’s always best to let a professional take over to fix issues with your water heater. A plumbing professional has the tools and expertise to solve any water heater issue and will have your unit running properly again.

What To Do When Your Water Heater Keeps Tripping the Breaker

If your water heater keeps tripping the breaker, constantly resetting it will not solve the problem. Instead, consider it a sign that it needs fixing or replacing.

Here are the most common reasons behind this issue and how homeowners can address them. Even if you’re confident in your DIY plumbing skills, you’ll need the help of a professional for most of these situations.

Burnt-Out Heating Element

A burnt-out … Read Full Post »

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Interior Paint Ideas for Your Home

. Posted by in • Dallas-Fort Worth
paint swatches

Do you want to paint your home’s interior but are unsure how to choose the perfect color? Several factors should be considered when choosing a paint color, such as the room you are painting, the mood you want to set, the rest of your decor and furniture and more.

Choosing a paint color can be fun but difficult. However, once you make your choice, you can make the task easier by hiring a handyman to do the painting for you. A professional paint job is guaranteed to look great, saving you time and hassle.

Interior Paint Ideas for Your Home

Choosing the right paint color can transform a room. For example, a simple coat of paint can make a small room feel larger and more open. Lighter shades reflect natural light and create the illusion of space, which is why interior designers recommend light colors for tight spaces.

On the other hand, paint colors … Read Full Post »

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Air Conditioner Fan Not Spinning but Hums

. Posted by in • Austin
an AC unit

When you turn on the air conditioning at home, the hottest, most insufferable days are instantly better. But sometimes, the AC refuses to run. A common problem is the fan not spinning but humming. If you’re dealing with this situation, you likely have a faulty capacitor.

Knowing what a capacitor is will help you understand its role. You can rely on HVAC specialists to fix your capacitor problems. They have the tools and expertise to perform the necessary repairs or replacements. Your AC will soon be up and running again, and everyone at home will be in a better mood.

Air Conditioner Fan Is Not Spinning But Hums: The Capacitor Might Be to Blame

First things first, it’s helpful to know what a capacitor is. The capacitor is a small cylindrical component inside your AC’s outdoor unit, typically resembling a tin can. Think of it as a giant battery for your AC that … Read Full Post »

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Tree Pruning Versus Trimming

. Posted by in , • Bryan-College Station
a pro trimming a tree

As a homeowner, you know that proper tree maintenance is important to having a beautiful and healthy property. However, do you know the different techniques required to maintain your trees?

Many homeowners confuse or interchange the concepts of tree pruning and trimming. However, they are two different things with different purposes and outcomes.

Working with an arborist is the best way to maintain your trees’ beauty and vitality. They have the right tools and knowledge to trim or prune your trees without damaging them.

Tree Pruning Versus Trimming

Do you know the difference between tree pruning and trimming your trees? While both tree maintenance methods are similar, they have different purposes.

Trimming primarily refers to an immediate need to be addressed and is usually only in reference to one specific or a few branches. Examples of trimming include removing a broken branch, trimming low hanging branches over a sidewalk and trimming back the end of … Read Full Post »

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What to Know About Replacing Siding on a House

. Posted by in • Dallas-Fort Worth
vinyl siding

Many homeowners take the siding on their house for granted, sometimes even forgetting it’s there. We often don’t realize its importance to our house’s structural integrity. It protects the home from sneaky pests and outdoor elements, and improves insulation. It also makes a massive difference in your home’s looks, as it is the most visible part of the exterior.

While vinyl, fiber cement, brick and wood sidings are durable, they’re not indestructible and will eventually need replacing. If you’re wondering if your house needs new siding, we’ll cover the signs you need to look out for and how you can perform the task. However, replacing the siding on your house is a complex project that takes up a lot of time and should be done by a professional.

Let a professional handyman do the job. With their tools and expertise, your home’s new siding will look flawless.

Replacing the Siding on Your House: … Read Full Post »

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Why Is My Pool Pump Leaking From the Top?

. Posted by in • San Antonio
a pool pump leaking from the top

“Why is my pool pump leaking from the top?” This is a question many homeowners with pools ask certified pool professionals when they find their pool pump is leaking. Discovering a leak in your pool pump can be frustrating, but these leaks are actually very common.

Pool pumps have many different components, including a motor and housing as well as various gaskets, clamps and o-rings. If any of these parts breaks or wears out, it can cause a leak. Having too little water in your pool can also lead to a leak, since it can allow air into the pump. Of course, low water levels in the pool can also be the result of a pump leak, not the cause of it. In these cases, it can be helpful to learn your pool’s evaporation rate.

Whatever is causing the leak needs to be fixed as soon as possible. Some pump leaks can … Read Full Post »

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How Are Generators Powered?

. Posted by in • San Antonio
a standby generator

Power outages are not fun, especially if you’re in the middle of an important task. Power interruptions during extreme weather conditions can also be worrying.

Invest in a standby generator if you want peace of mind for you and your family. This backup power solution will ensure your lights, appliances and devices at home will keep working during unexpected power outages. But how are generators powered? Here’s an explanation of how generators work and their benefits for the home.

If you want to install one in your residence and ensure it’s running smoothly, contact a licensed electrician.

How Are Generators Powered?

With a standby generator, power outages will be a thing of the past in your home. It’s an automated system that gets its power from a fuel source of natural gas or propane.

A generator’s automatic transfer switch can sense when there’s an interruption in your home’s main power supply, signaling the generator unit. … Read Full Post »

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