3 Types of Ceiling Cracks and What They Mean

When you spot a crack in the ceiling, you might feel a sense of panic. What could this crack mean? Is there a serious underlying matter that has to be resolved? Is my home going to require a tedious renovation? But before you spiral into all sorts of possibilities, keep in mind that not all ceiling cracks are serious. In fact, some are simply cosmetic. For this reason, a little knowledge goes a long way, especially when it comes to peace of mind.

When you spot a crack in the ceiling, you might feel a sense of panic. What could this crack mean? Is there a serious underlying matter that has to be resolved? Is my home going to require a tedious renovation? But before you spiral into all sorts of possibilities, keep in mind that not all ceiling cracks are serious. In fact, some are simply cosmetic. For this reason, a little knowledge goes a long way, especially when it comes to peace of mind.

Continue reading to learn 3 common types of ceiling cracks and what they might imply for your home.

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❶ Thin Straight Cracks

If you discover a fine, straight crack in your ceiling, it is often an indication of poor joint taping. Basically, whoever did the framing work for the home did not use a sufficient amount of drywall mud during the taping step of the project. As a result, the tape did not adhere well enough to the joint. This creates a crack along the edge of the slackened tape.

The good news is that this is entirely superficial, so there is no need for immediate repair. If you do mind the cosmetic defect, you can apply a thin lawyer of drywall compound under the loose tape and re-securing it to the drywall.

❷ Tiny Spider Web Cracks

When you have tiny, web-like cracking in your ceiling, it is likely another superficial defect. Such cracks generally occur as a result of insufficient drywall compound when creating a textured ceiling. In contrast, if the cracks are more like a starburst, or go outward in multiple directions, it is likely a result of using too much drywall compound to create a textured ceiling. This is because compound shrinks as it is drying. To fix this problem, you can simply cover the blemish with more drywall compound, but this may require some sanding and priming first.

❸ Discolored Cracks

When you spot yellowish brown stained cracks in the ceiling, it is not a good sign. Not only could discolored cracking be a sign of a water leak, it could also pose serious structural hazards. In this case, you would need emergency inspection services to confirm the cause of the leak. Once you have determined what has caused the leak, you will need to have that problem repaired before you can refinish the drywall and ceiling.

⚠ Regardless of the types of cracks you have in your ceiling, it is important to have them inspected as soon as possible in case the problem is a water leak or structural issue. Try to have your inspection scheduled within 3 to 5 days to be safe.

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors Who Can Help

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable drywall and painting service in Central Indiana and its surrounding areas. Our Indianapolis general contractors provide a wide range of drywall and painting services for both commercial and residential properties, from inspections and diagnostics, to full-on home renovations, additions, conversions, and more. Request an estimate, today!

Residential and Commercial Remodeling

How to Clean Concrete Mildew

Mildew growth is a troublesome discovery for any business or property owner. Many people want to know how to remove such mildew from concrete walls and flooring in order to avoid larger and more costly repairs or renovations down the road. This is especially true for decorative concrete surfaces since aesthetic appeal is their number one purpose. Fortunately, anyone can learn to efficiently and effectively remove mildew from concrete floors, foundations, walls, and more.

Continue reading to learn some simple tips and tricks to doing just that!

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How to Get Rid of Mildew

The culprit behind mildew development is moisture. Moisture can navigate the interior channels and pores of concrete, leading to such accumulation. Even with moisture barriers like sealcoats in place, water can still finds its way if these barriers are worn out or weakened. This is why routine sealcoating is so important for concrete surfaces. For mildew to grow, moisture and darkness must collaborate. This is why concrete walls and floors are common targets.

When it comes to getting rid of mildew growth on concrete walls and floors, health and safety is the top concern, which is why immediate remediation is necessary. Right below health and safety is property appeal and preventative maintenance. These reasons and more are why mildew removal is vital for a property’s overall structural integrity.

Where to Start

To get started, be sure to gather all the necessary components, products, and supplies before you get ready to begin. The process, once underway, should not be interrupted; it must be completed in one sitting. Preparation is helpful so that you do not have to stop in the middle of a mildew removal project to locate additional supplies. You will need clean water, bleach, scrubbing brushes, a clean bucket, and rubber or waterproof gloves. You can also purchase pre-mixed mildew removal products at your local home improvement or department store as well. OTC solutions are equally effective as bleach and water, but they are best suited for smaller surface areas.

Here’s a basic guide to mildew removal for concrete surfaces:

➀ Collect the necessary ingredients and items.
➁ Put on your rubber gloves.
➂ Open doors and windows for safe ventilation.
➃ Mix 1 part bleach with 4 parts water.
➄ Dip your brush or sponge in bleach solution.
➅ Vigorously scrub the infected area.
➆ Continue scrubbing with force until the mildew is all gone.
➇ Dry the area entirely (you must do this step or the mildew will return).
➈ Consider professional sealcoating services to prevent additional mildew growth.

Indianapolis Concrete Restoration and Repair

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional concrete restoration and repair in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. We offer a full-range of concrete construction services and related developmental management services for all properties and residences. No matter how small, large, or complex your concrete needs may be, our skilled and experienced contractors can deliver the proficient results you expect using innovative designs, quality materials, and professional service. Request an estimate, anytime.

Residential and Commercial Remodeling

A Comparison of Various Flooring Options on the Market

If you are on the market for flooring replacement options, you will find that there are many materials to choose from, all ranging in quality, dimensions, color, styles, textures, and more. For those looking for a cost-effective flooring option, decorative concrete is a popular choice among residential and commercial property owners looking for a cost-effective and modern upgrade.

Although you have several other options to choose from, there are many reasons to choose the concrete for your new floors.

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Indianapolis Flooring Contractors 317-454-3612

Choosing Decorative Concrete Flooring

Not only is decorative concrete flooring inexpensive and easy to install, it can be customized to mimic any style, texture, color, or look. Decorative concrete flooring can be stamped, stained, colored, died, treated, scored, polished, and so much more. This means that it can be designed to mimic higher in materials like tile, marble, cobblestone, brick, and slate, but cost less. The options are virtually endless, and only limited by your own imagination and creativity.

More Quality Flooring Comparisons

Tile:

Tile is expensive, and the options of styles and colors are limited. Also, tile requires a stricter care regiment in order to protect the grout lines and prevent cracking. If you are looking for high maintenance and high prices, tile flooring is right for you.

Brick:

Sure, brick is beautiful. In fact, it’s quite stunning; however, brick is incredibly high maintenance and prone to a long list of damages. This makes it a poor fit for an interior flooring option.

Natural Stone:

Cobblestone and other types of natural stone materials commonly used for flooring are high maintenance and high-priced. They are more prone to cracking and crumbling, and require strict care regimen in order to maintain clean grout lines.

Linoleum/Vinyl:

Linoleum and vinyl flooring are common options for both residential and commercial properties because they are inexpensive and low maintenance. On the other hand, linoleum and vinyl are often viewed as outdated, so many potential buyers are turned off by such flooring. This isn’t good for anyone who wishes to sell their property in the future.

Carpet :

Carpeting is highly susceptible to several types of damages, especially staining and foot traffic. It is also more of a challenge to clean and keep clean.  Carpets also retain dander and dust and other types of allergens, which can be irritating to those who suffer from upper respiratory illnesses and implications.

Wood :

Not only is wood expensive in its natural state, it is a challenge to maintain. Wood is a natural element, therefore it susceptible to scratches, scrapes, and discoloration, so often times, it needs restoration after a few years.

Indianapolis Floor Replacement Contractors

Call Restoration By L&B, LLC at 317-454-3612 if you are looking for licensed Indianapolis flooring contractors you can trust. Our general contractors provide a wide range of residential and commercial flooring services at the most competitive prices around. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about home remodel planning, prices, and process. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition!

Residential and Commercial Remodeling

4 Troubleshooting Tips for Electric Gates

Electric gates are quite the luxury, whether they are at the end of your driveway, in your backyard, for the garage, or serving as a secondary barrier to your front door. However, they are prone to damage, just like anything else that runs on power. To make matters worse, electric gate repairs can be costly and tedious, making it a priority to take good care of your own.

If you are having some mechanical or operational issues with your electric gate, continue reading for some top-recommended troubleshooting tips.

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Indianapolis Electric Gate Repair 317-454-3612

❶ Check on the Power

Have you ever tried to use an electrical device that just wouldn’t work, and then you realize it’s not plugged in? Well, the same principle applies to electric gates. If your gate is not receiving power, it won’t work. So your first step to troubleshooting an electric gate malfunction is to see whether or not the power source is intact. Start with any peripheral equipment on your gate, then finish by inspecting the electric mains. If they are off, turn them back on; if they are on, inspect the wiring for visual damage or disconnections. Sometimes, changing the wires solves the problem.

❷ Check on the Transmitter

If the electrical mains and wiring don’t seem to jump out at you as the problem, move onto the transmitter. If the light is on, the transmitter has power, but the batteries may be low. If the light is not on, the transmitter has no power, and again, the batteries probably need to be replaced. Next, test your keypads and access codes to see if they are working properly. Be sure to test all access controls if you have more than two. If the gates do not open when you enter in your code, you likely need repair or replacement. Be sure to test all peripheral equipment to narrow down the culprits.

❸ Take a Look at the Pathway

If everything seems to be fine so far, it could be something as simple as an unnoticed obstruction. So, be sure to check the gate’s path of movement to ensure there is nothing in its way when it opens. If your problem is that the gates won’t close, waive something in its path to see if you hear a clicking noise. If so, the photocells could be damaged. This is mostly for rolling gates. Sliding gates might not contain photocells, in which case, you would not hear a clicking noise. If your gate doe s contain photocells, and you do not hear a clicking sound, your safety beam might be damaged. In this case, check to see if any broken fragments, wedged insects, or solid debris are blocking the photocells.

❹ Check on the Motors

Last, you need to ensure that the motors are not the problem. Most often, you need the help of a professional to inspect and diagnose electric gate motor issues, for both rolling and sliding gates. Consult with a licensed Indianapolis general contractor for help solving your electric gate issues.

Indianapolis Door and Gate Repair

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional door and gate repair and replacement in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and qualified home remodeling contractors provide a wide range of affordable handyman services for both residential and commercial properties. You name it, they can do it! Renovations, remodeling, repairs, and restoration projects, large or small, is what we specialize in! Call 317-454-3612 to schedule a written estimate, today.

Residential and Commercial Remodeling