Energy efficiency is something most homeowners are always trying to achieve. Whether it’s remembering to switch off lights in unoccupied rooms or opting to open windows on a nice day, we do so hoping those little things will add up to significant savings. Unfortunately, with energy cost steadily on the rise, it’s very difficult to counter them with simple solutions. If you really want to see a substantial decrease in your energy cost, you need to seek the help of a professional. Luckily you’ve come to the right place as Michael & Son is the areas leader in “green services”. With the help of a Michael & Son energy expert, you can create a plan to transform your home into a energy-efficient dwelling. Here are some of the services we offer…

• Energy Audit – This is where your quest to achieve green living begins. Our technician will inspect your homes electrical panel, HVAC system, water heater, appliances and the homes insulations.
• Solar Water Heater – Whether gas or electric, your water heater consumes a lot of energy, especially if its not energy efficient. Solar water heaters capture free, renewable energy from the sun to heat your homes water.
• Geothermal Heating & Cooling Systems – Geothermal technology is a great investment that can save you more than 70% on your utility bill each year. It provides even and consistent heating and cooling all year long with no hot or cold spots.
• Use CFL’s – CFL’s or compact florescent light bulbs, are for more energy efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs and do not need to be replaced nearly as often.
• Install Ceiling Fans – Ceiling fans use very little energy but still help maintain a comfortable temperature with out adjusting the thermostat.
• Go Low Flow – Low flow shower heads and toilets can save thousands of gallons each year and the newer models have great water pressure.
• Look for the Energy Star – When buying new or replacing old appliances, always be sure to look for the energy star label. Using energy efficient appliances can save you hundreds each year.

These are just a few of the many ways Michael & Son Services can help you not only save money but reduce your carbon footprint as well. To learn more about Michael & Son green services, contact one of our friendly customer service representatives and schedule to meet with trained energy consultant today. Also, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our YouTube page and find out about special offers, community events and much more!

Father’s day is right around the corner and many of you are probably trying to figure out that perfect gift. In a show of dispair, many of us defer to the tried and true neck tie, golf related merchandise or some gadget he does not want or need. These gifts seem to fall into the “it’s the thought that counts” category and end up in a closet somewhere, never to be seen again. This year, why not mix things up and give dad something he actually needs and wants? Sounds like a good idea, right? Well, Michael & Son Services can help you do just that.

Your father, like everyone else, could probably use some free time, unfortunately you can’t get that at the mall. One thing that probably eats up a lot of dad’s time on the weekends is home repairs and maintenance, especially if he is not handy but thinks he is. One poor attempt at a simple home repair can lead to a large, costly repair when done wrong. This father’s day, avoid the disappointment and costly repairs buy giving your father the gift of service. With a Michael & Son Home Cares Agreement or gift certificate you can give old Dad something he can use for once and keep him from fiddling around with the water heater or trying to tune up the HVAC system on his own. To find out about Michael & Son Home Care Agreements or Gift Cards, call and speak with one of our friendly customer service representatives. Also, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our YouTube page to find out about special events, fund raisers and much more!

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The Michael & Son Cares Team just wrapped up filming of its 8^th episode of Helping Hands. The families home had a whole host of problems including a leaky roof, no gutters, poorly insulated windows, no working HVAC and worst of all, foundation problems. While a majority of the damage to the foundation was caused by last years earthquake, much of it was made worse by the lack of gutters and proper drainage. One of the largest costs a homeowner can incur is making repairs to the foundation. These repairs are almost always expensive, disruptive and can lower the value of the home. Today we would like to go over the different types of foundation problems, preventive maintenance and how to address foundation issues, should they arise. Lets start by going over the different types of foundation problems.

Types of Foundation Problems

• Uneven or sloping floors – There are different degrees to which this can occur. Sometimes it can be spotted from across the room and sometimes it takes a level. Over time, even a slight sloped floor can cause it to separate from the wall.
• Cracks in interior or exterior brick – Cracks that form on exterior or interior brick walls are another sign of a failing foundation. The cracks tend to form around windows, outdoor stairs and areas situated in unstable soil.
• Interior molding cracks – Cracks in your homes molding is a sign of a foundation problem that originates on the exterior. If you notice these types of cracks inside your home, chances are there are cracks in the brick foundation.
• Wall Rotation – Unstable soil can cause interior support walls to rotate and crack the brick exterior of a home. Like all foundation problems, this can be dangerous if not addressed.
• Wall Separation – A combination of the above types of foundation problems can lead to wall separation. This is when support walls on the exterior separate from the home

Trouble Shooting / Preventive Maintenance

• Gutters & Downspouts – Keeping your gutter cleaned and well maintained is the first step to preventing foundation problems. Pooling water can cause soil instability which can erode your foundation.
• Keep Hydrated – During dry spells or droughts its important to keep the soil surrounding your foundation well hydrated. Dry soil can contract and expand, causing damage to the foundation. Remember to avoid pooling, which can also cause foundation problems.
• Adjusting the Slope – If the land around you home slopes towards the house it will need to be leveled out.

As we said earlier, foundation problems are complex and expensive. If you think you have foundation damage or the potential for it to occur, call an expert to take a look. With a little bit of awareness and vigilance, you can avoid costly damage to your foundation. Also, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our YouTube page and find out about great offers, special events and more!

A classic example of wall rotation

Cracked crown molding can me trouble for your exterior foundation

Sloping floors are not always so obvious

A cracked exterior wall is another sign of serious foundation problems

We just wrapped up another successful Cares job and with it, a great half hour of television. The recent episode of “Helping Hands”, documenting our latest Cares project, has received and overwhelming amount of positive feedback from our thousands of viewers. Here are some of the good things we are hearing:

I’ve lived in this area for over 30 years and I can’t remember a local business that gives so much back to the community. Keep up the great work Michael & Son, these days people really need it.

- James K.

I caught Helping Hands this weekend and I wanted to thank you for everything your company does for the community. The families story and the compassion showed by your owner left me in tears. I hope that more companies see what your doing and follow suit.

- Beth A.

I live in Triangle VA and wanted to thank you for all the help you gave the Lloyd and Anderson family. I am grateful to know there are companies like yours out there. I will always use and recommend Michael & Son after seeing the show.

Otis F.

If you have not already checked out Helping Hands, make sure to do so. You can watch Helping Hands the first Sunday of every month at 12pm on NBC4 or subscribe to our YouTube page to check up on past episodes. Also, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to find out about special events, great savings and much more!

The roof work begins

The front of house after the earthquake

Vinyl Lite Window Factory hard at work

The Cares Program can always count on Carrier

The new gutters provided by Action Sheet Metal

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Michael & Son Richmonds General Manager, Joe Mummert, was recently invited to play in the Darrell Green Charity Golf Tournament. The tournament was for the benefit of “The Youth Life Foundation” which aims to provide less fortunate children with learning accessible learning centers in their areas. We had a chance to speak with Darrell Green about the foundation and why its important. You can see the video by clicking here. Also, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our YouTube Page to find out about special events, great savings and much more!

Darrell Green – Youth Life Foundation

Michael and Son Cares Team are wrapping up their second cares job this year in Triangle, Virginia. The two families who received assistance from the Cares Team had strikingly similar stories. Both were single mothers who were forced to leave their jobs in order to care for their sick children, and both were saddled with the burden of choosing medical care for their children over essential home repairs. While the families plights were tragic, they certainly are not out of the ordinary in Triangle, VA. Within the last few years, because of a long awaited plan to widen roads in the area, nearly all of Triangles businesses have closed their door. Much of what remains is empty lots and boarded up buildings. This has left little opportunity for single mothers like our Care’s recipients who are unable to travel long distances to work. There has also been an increase in crime and gang activity in the area, leaving many to wonder if the businesses will even return. This has left many in the area, including our Cares recipients, skeptical about what the future holds for a small town in one of Americas richest areas.

Its businesses like Michael & Son who give hope to families like the ones in Triangle. Before they had contacted Michael & Son, the two cares recipients had reached out to every community and government organizations they could find, they were either turned away or out in a waiting list. In contrast, all it took was an email to the Cares team, a visit to meet the family and the process was under way. Within a week of contacting the Cares Program, both families had been approved for assistance. While the work done by the Cares Program won’t heal the families’ sick children or bring jobs back to the area, it will make their lives that much easier and hopefully inspire other businesses to reach out. After all, inspiring others to help those in need is the end goal of the Cares Program. You can see the story behind our second Triangle Cares job 5/6/12 on NBC4 at 12pm. Also, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our YouTube page to find out about special offers, fundraisers and more!

Michael & Son CEO Basim Mansour Talks to the press about the Cares Job

Basim shares a tender moment with Elias

A five leaf clover given to Basim by Elias's mother

The Michael & Son Cares team has been working tirelessly over the last few months throughout Virginia and Maryland. Since the first episode of “Helping Hands”, the request for assistance have been pouring in and the Cares Team has been working over time to keep up. Because of the current economic climate, those in need are finding themselves in an increasingly desperate situations. Government cutbacks related to federal assistance are at an all time high and as a result, church groups and other NGO’s are finding themselves overwhelmed and under funded. This leaves very few places for those in need to turn and many simply do without the basic necessities that many of us take for granted on a daily basis. In an effort to help fill the void left by government austerity measures, Michael & Son has been stepping up its efforts to form community action partnerships with businesses in our community. “It’s our goal to get other businesses involved in community service” said Basim Mansour, Proud Owner and Son of Michael & Son Services. “If every able business in the area started their own Cares Program, our community would be a different place”. So far, Michael & Son Services has been successful in inspiring other businesses to join our cause. Here is a list of some of the businesses that have generously donated their time, expertise and materials:

Ferguson

Carrier

Rexel

Home Depot

Smoot Lumber

Roof Center

Varco

Virginia Roofing Corporation

B&H Tile

Action Sheet Metal

Benjamin Moore

Carpetland

The companies listed above answered our call to action without hesitation. We hope that more companies in the area will show the same willingness and determination to make our community a better place. If you are affiliated with a business or know of one that would like to be involved with the Michael & Son Cares Program, please contact us. Also, follow us on Facebook, like us on Twitter and subscribe to our YouTube page to find out about community events, special promotions and much more!

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In a recent blog post we offered some tips for people getting ready to put their house up for sale. Today, we would like to offer some advice to first time home buyers. Many people will warn you of a frightening and stressful first time home buying experience. While that might be true for some, those armed with the right information can have a fulfilling and even empowering experience. Let’s start with the exterior

Exterior

The homes exterior can play a big role on what happens inside. Things like unattended gutters and holes in the roof can cause serious damage to your homes interior. Here are some things to look out for when inspecting the exterior of a home.

Roof – You probably won’t have a ladder on hand but you can tell a lot form the ground. Make sure there are no sags or dips in the roof and also check for hanging shingles. You’ll be able to check for leaks once we get inside.

Windows – Check all windows for cracks or chipped framing. Make sure all windows have working locks and screens.

Porches & Decks – Examine the foundation and support beams of all porches and decks. Make sure none of the wood is rotting.

Lot – Look at the home from a distance, would water drain away from the home? If not, you’ll need to take a closer look at the foundation of the home.

After you have examined those items, begin to take a walk around the house, moving clock or counter clockwise. Examine the home starting form the top of the structure and working your way down. Look for any issues that could be a problem and make note of it.

Interior

The interior is where you really need to pull your inspectors hat on tight. From the inside the home you can examine all appliances, plumbing and electrical systems. You can also check for foundation and roof problems while on the inside. When doing an interior home inspection, its best to begin from the lowest level and work your way up.

Basement – This is where you can find out a lot about the house you may potentially buy. In the utility area you can usually check the foundation wall. Look for any water on the floor or coming from the ceiling. You can also check the floor joist from the basement; make sure there is no rotting or cracks. Next check all the appliances that you can find in the area. Inspect the water heater and be sure there is no water overflow and all connections look to be in good order. You can also check the water heater for inspection stickers and recent maintenance logs. Next, you’ll want to locate the electrical panel, which is almost always located in the basement. Check the panel for proper labeling and make sure there are no exposed wires. After you’ve inspected the electrical panel, locate any exposed plumbing pipes. Check the lines for any leaks or condensation and make sure shut off valves are properly labeled.

Living Area – When inspecting the living area there are a few key items to check. Make sure no windows have any interior cracks (we’ve already inspected the exterior of the windows) and that the locks are functional and sturdy. Listen for any excessive outdoor noise coming through; this will be a good indicator of the quality of the windows and how much insulation they will provide.  Check the floors and ceiling for any sagging or slopping, this could be a sign of a plumbing problem.

Kitchen – The kitchen is another area where you need to pay close attention. As you did in the other rooms, check the floors, ceiling and windows for any irregularities or defects. Next you will want to check the garbage disposal for function and any leaks. After checking the disposal, move on to all the other appliances in the kitchen.

Bathrooms – While bathrooms are small they are some of the most heavily used rooms in the home and have the potential for expensive problems. Inspect the toilet the base of the toilet for any leaks, cracks or signs of quick fixes (i.e. sloppy calk or putty jobs). Flush the toilet a couple times to ensure its working properly. Next, move on to the shower and check or leaky showerhead, faucet and cracked tiles. Turn the shower on and run the water over your hand and make sure the temperature function is working correctly.  Lastly, check under the sink for leaks or any other signs of plumbing problems.

Attic – If the home has an accessible attic, it’s worth your while to go up and take a look. In the attic you can inspect for any leaks in the roof and also check for proper insulation.

The most important part of a home inspection is to take your time. Open all doors, check all switches and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Remember, a home is most likely the largest investment you’ll ever make so you’ll want to make sure everything is in order. Make sure to take a check list, flashlight and small multi tool along. Equipped with the right knowledge, a home inspection can be quick, easy and painless. That’s all for today but be sure to check in with us for more helpful home tips. Also, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our Youtube page and find out about special offers, fundraisers and more!

The basement is an important area of your inspection

Check the roof for leaks from the attic

Michael & Son Services strives to be a leader in every aspect of our industry. From the extensive training our technicians undergo to the state of the art tools they use, Michael & Son is constantly in search of a smarter and more efficient way to work. While this philosophy works well for the technicians and employees, the customers benefit the most. The latest and most important innovation at Michael & Son is the use of tablets by the technicians. Where in the past they were burdened with paper invoices and heavy price books, the technicians now have all the information they need at there finger tips.

The Panasonic tough books used by Michael & Son technicians allows them access to all the information they need to make a customers experience smooth and painless. It also insures that a customer’s information is stored on a secured server and only accessed by authorized individuals. Here are some of the other benefits offered by the tablets:

• Transforms technicians vehicles into a mobile office
• Allows technician to have detailed notes on hand about the customers issue and any previous work
• Customers can instantly receive invoices, proposals and any other information they request electronically
• Technicians have access to thousands of different options for customers that can be accessed in seconds
• Technicians can immediately and accurately send information to their home office regarding billing, warranties and rebates.

While many wouldn’t consider the home service industry to be one that would benefit from tablet technologies, it’s something that has greatly enhanced the Michael & Son Services. “Even before the tablets, we were always ahead of the game when it came to the latest and greatest tech ” said Basim Mansour, Proud Son and Owner of Michael & Son Services. “With a more streamlined and efficient processes we are able to offer our customers better service and value”. To keep up with what’s changing here at Michael & Son, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our Youtube Page!

The tablets used by Michael & Son technicians

Panasonic tough books can stand up to abuse

As the temperature rises, so does the amount of home being listed for sale. Spring time is real estate season and if you’re one of the many people planning to put your home on the market in the next few months, you’ve got a lot of work to do. Sellers face stiff competition in a “buyers market” so making sure your home is in prime condition is paramount. Today, we will be offering some tips on essential touches that can set your home apart from the pack.  With a little time and attention, your sell time can be cut and your profits increased.

Curb Appeal

Your homes exterior is the first thing any potential buyer sees. What potential buyers see on the outside may effect how they feel about the inside. Here are a items you want to take care of before the for sale sign goes in your lawn.

Landscape – Make sue your grass is cut, bushes trimmed and trees pruned. Flowers are nice but don’t over do it. Not only can too many flowers be overwhelming, they also attract bugs.

Driveways – Cracks and potholes in a drive away never looks good. Have your drive way sealed and sprayed before putting your home up for sale.

Homes Exterior – Have you been putting off a simple repair to a shingle or shutter? Well now is the time to do it. Search your homes exterior for anything that needs a coat of paint or a couple nails.

Power Washing – Dirt builds up on your home over the course of the years. Having your homes exterior power washed can take will really brighten things up.

Interior Touches

Now that you’ve taken care of the exterior, it’s time to move indoors. Here are some often overlooked items you’ll want to take care of before that first open house.

Make Your Home Anonymous – When a potential buyer enters your home, they want to be able to envision themselves living there. Too many family pictures or personal items can take away that experience for the potential buyer. There is nothing wrong with a little personal style but try and keep it limited to just that when showing your home.

Stay Up to Date – Old fixtures and appliances are a big turn off for potential buyers.  Make sure your appliances and fixtures are up to date and in good working order.

De-clutter Your Closets – Closet space is the prime real estate within real estate. Make sure your closets are neat and organized before showing the home. A organized and neat closet always looks larger.

Wood Floors – While it’s not always feasible when selling a home, adding wood floors to your home can garner a lot of interest. There are less expensive synthetics available but beware, many savvy shoppers know the difference.

Follow the Code – Make sure that your home is up to code before putting it on the market. Having a home inspection can assure everything is above board. A home inspection can also provide you with a to-do list of repairs.

While many of the repairs and upgrades can be done by someone with little experience, others can not. For those jobs that exceed your level of expertise, call Michael & Son Handyman and remodeling services. We can handle any job, from paint touch up to additions. Also, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and subscribe to our Youtube page to keep up with special offers, promotions and fund raisers!

A little paint can go a long way

A well maintained landscape is the ultimate curb appear