How to secure your home

 

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The article is taken from Ooba's website. Writer unknown. 

With the rising concern of theft within our area, it is always good to be prepared. Knowing what to look for and check for any vulnerable places within your house will make it that more difficult to become another statistic.  

The turmoil you experience when a break in has occurred diminishes your feeling of safety and causes more problems. 

Effective security should be a priority when moving into a new home, and knowing how to secure your home is crucial for your own peace of mind.

Article summary

· It’s essential to know how to make your house safe from burglars in South Africa to ensure your personal safety as well as to safeguard your belongings.

· This will add value to your property and most likely have a positive effect on your household insurance premiums.

· Make sure all opening windows and doors are protected by burglar guards and preferably an alarm system.

· Don’t become complacent. Use the alarm system if you have one.

Personal safety will always be a priority in South Africa. Securing your new home should be one of the first things you do—preferably before you move in—so that you leave nothing to chance or, in this case, an opportunistic burglar who might see you as an easy target.

What are the most effective ways to secure your home?

Smart home security will not only protect you and your family, but will also add value to your home. South Africans are security conscious and a property that appears to be vulnerable will immediately be perceived as less valuable. Prevention is vital in the fight against crime, so knowing how to secure your home in South Africa is crucial for your own peace of mind and the future safety of you and your family.

Here are the areas you should focus on when looking to improve your home security:

Perimeter

Securing your perimeter should be the first thing you do, and you can do so effectively with a mix of technological and traditional security measures.

· An electric fence or wall can be a solid deterrence. If it’s a wall, it helps to reinforce it with barbed wire or spikes on top; otherwise, burglars will be able to easily climb over.

· Having visibility on the perimeter of your home is essential, so install CCTV cameras as soon as you can.

· Certain smart technologies that enable you to monitor your perimeter from remote locations will also boost your security and significantly improve the value of the home.

The gate

According to the experts on mrgate.co.za, potential weaknesses of a gate include:

· Lifting. Burglars can lift the gate to gain access to the property. You can prevent this by securing the gate with anti-lift brackets.

· The gate rack. On sliding gates, this can be forced away from the gate (usually with a crowbar), allowing it to be opened. You can prevent this by welding a flat bar onto the rack to prevent it from being moved.

· The intercom. Burglars can press this to see if the home is occupied. Certain smart technologies enable you to connect your intercom system to your smartphone so that you’ll know if someone has pressed the intercom button.

· The gate remote. Ensure you’re using a modern remote with up-to-date technology, as older remotes can be copied, or the settings replicated.

Windows

Burglar bars are essential, and should be robust. Agnieszka Gryn, regional executive at Fidelity ADT, suggests installing burglar bars on the outside of the windows, even though they may not be as aesthetically pleasing.

Doors

Main doors must be made of strong material, and reinforced, preferably with multi-point locks that can lock the door at several points.

Dogs

Investigator Brigadier Piet Byleveld says that dogs are one of the most effective security measures. As well as deterring criminals, they provide an early warning system.

Alarm system

Research by professor Rudolph Zinn from UNISA’s School of Criminal Justice and Police Practice shows alarms and security sensors to be among the most effective burglar repellents. The alarm should be installed by an armed response company, and it’s important to test it regularly and keep it maintained.

Staff

Rudolph Zinn interviewed 30 perpetrators who were convicted and incarcerated for aggravated robbery, and the majority said that they relied on inside information when deciding which homes to target. That’s why Piet Byleveld advice to screen your workers, including domestic workers and gardeners, for criminal records, and finding out why they left previous employment.

Know the enemy

Do your best to inform yourself about how burglars operate. Seek advice from the local police station if possible. Low-level thieves will usually only target homes with no security, but more “professional” burglars operate in groups; are keenly aware of security response times; and will usually survey properties before commencing with their burglary attempt.

Rudolph Zinn’s research shows that burglars targeted homes according to the following factors:

· Wealth. Victims were targeted because the burglars knew there would be valuables in the house.

· Inside information. As mentioned above, burglars prefer to target homes where information has been provided to them.

· Proximity. Burglars prefer to target homes within 10 to 30 minutes driving distance.

· Low security. Homes with substandard security were naturally a target.

Finding a good security provider

Whatever your plan is, ensure that your security provider is a registered member of the South African Intruder Detection Service Associations (SAIDSA), so you can be confident that their equipment and training meets the standards.

Source: How to secure your home against burglars in South Africa (ooba.co.za)

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Mould, Moisture and Your Home

 

5 Minute read

 Mould Basics 

· The key to mould control is moisture control.

· If mould is a problem in your home, clean up the mould promptly and fix the water problem.

· It is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mould growth.

Why is mould growing in my home?

Moulds are part of the natural environment. Outdoors, moulds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter, such as fallen leaves and dead trees. But indoors, mould growth should be avoided. Moulds reproduce through tiny spores; the spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air. Mould may grow indoors when mould spores land on surfaces that are wet. There are many types of mould, and none of them will grow without water or moisture.

 Can mould cause health problems?

Moulds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mould spores land on a wet or damp spot and begin growing. Moulds have the potential to cause health problems. Moulds produce allergens (substances that can cause allergic reactions), irritants and, sometimes, potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins). Inhaling or touching mould or mould spores may cause allergic reactions to sensitive individuals. Allergic responses include hay fever-type symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash (dermatitis). Allergic reactions to mould are common.  They can be immediate or delayed.  Moulds can also cause asthma attacks in people with asthma who are allergic to mould. In addition, mould exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs of both mould-allergic and non-allergic people. Symptoms other than the allergic and irritant types are not commonly reported because of inhaling mould. Research on mould and health effects is ongoing. This article provides a overview; it does not describe all potential health effects related to mould exposure. For more detailed information, consult a health professional.  You may also wish to consult your state or local health department.

How do I get rid of mould?  

It is impossible to get rid of all mould and mould spores indoors. Some mould spores will be found floating through the air and in house dust. Mould spores will not grow if moisture is not present. Indoor mould growth can and should be prevented or controlled by controlling moisture indoors. If there is mould growth in your home, you must clean up the mould and fix the water problem. If you clean up the mould but don't fix the water problem, most likely, the mould problem will recur.

Who should do the cleanup?

· This depends on several factors. One consideration is the size of the mould problem. If the mouldy area is less than about 10 square feet (less than roughly a 3-foot by 3-foot patch), in most cases, you can handle the job yourself, following the guidelines below.  

· If there has been a lot of water damage, and/or mould growth covers over 10 square feet, consult with an InterNACHI inspector.

· If you choose to hire a contractor (or other professional service provider) to do the cleanup, make sure the contractor has experience cleaning up mould.  Check references and ask the contractor to follow the recommendations of the EPA, the guidelines of the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygenists (ACGIH), or other guidelines from professional or government organizations.

· Do not run the HVAC system if you know or suspect that it is contaminated with mould.  This could spread mould throughout the building. 

· If the water and/or mould damage was caused by sewage or other contaminated water, then call in a professional who has experience cleaning and fixing buildings damaged by contaminated water. 

· If you have health concerns, consult a health professional before starting cleanup.

Tips and Techniques 

The tips and techniques presented in this section will help you clean up your mould problem. Professional cleaners or remediators may use methods not covered here. Please note that mould may cause staining and cosmetic damage. It may not be possible to clean an item so that its original appearance is restored.   

· Fix plumbing leaks and other water problems as soon as possible. Dry all items completely.

· Scrub mould off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely.

· Absorbent or porous materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet, may have to be thrown away if they become mouldy. Mould can grow on or fill in the empty spaces and crevices of porous materials, so the mould may be difficult or impossible to expunge.

· Avoid exposing yourself or others to mould.

· Do not paint or caulk mouldy surfaces.

· Clean up the mould and dry the surfaces before painting. Paint applied over mouldy surfaces is likely to peel. If you are unsure about how to clean an item, or if the item is expensive or of sentimental value, you may wish to consult a specialist. Specialists in furniture repair and restoration, painting and art restoration and conservation, carpet and rug cleaning, water damage, and fire or water restoration are commonly listed in phone books. Be sure to ask for and check references. Look for specialists who are affiliated with professional organizations.

 

What to Wear When Cleaning Mouldy Areas:  

· Avoid breathing in mould or mould spores.  In order to limit your exposure to airborne mould, wear an N-95 respirator, available at many hardware stores and from companies that advertise on the Internet. Some N-95 respirators resemble a paper dust mask with a nozzle on the front, and others are made primarily of plastic or rubber and have removable cartridges that trap and prevent most of the mould spores from entering. In order to be effective, the respirator or mask must fit properly, so carefully follow the instructions supplied with the respirator. Please note that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that respirators fit properly (via fit testing) when used in an occupational setting.

· Wear gloves. Long gloves that extend to the middle of the forearm are recommended. When working with water and a mild detergent, ordinary household rubber gloves may be used. If you are using a disinfectant, a biocide such as chlorine bleach, or a strong cleaning solution, select gloves made from natural rubber, neoprene, nitrile, polyurethane or PVC. Avoid touching mould or mouldy items with your bare hands.   

· Wear goggles. Goggles that do not have ventilation holes are recommended. Avoid getting mould or mould spores in your eyes.

How do I know when the remediation or cleanup is finished?

· You must have completely fixed the water or moisture problem before the cleanup or remediation can be finished, based on the following guidelines:  

· You should have completed the mould removal. Visible mould and mouldy odors should not be present. Please note that mould may cause staining and cosmetic damage.   

· You should have revisited the site(s) shortly after cleanup, and it should show no signs of water damage or mould growth.  

· People should have been able to occupy or re-occupy the area without health complaints or physical symptoms.  

· Ultimately, this is a judgment call; there is no straightforward answer. If you have concerns or questions, be sure to ask your InterNACHI inspector during your next scheduled inspection.

Moisture and Mould Prevention and Control Tips

Moisture control is the key to mould control, so when water leaks or spills occur indoors, ACT QUICKLY. If wet or damp materials or areas are dried within 24 to 48 hours after a leak or spill happens, in most cases, mould will not grow.  

· Clean and repair roof gutters regularly.  

· Make sure the ground slopes away from the building's foundation so that water does not enter or collect around the foundation.  

· Keep air-conditioning drip pans clean and the drain lines unobstructed and flowing properly.

· Keep indoor humidity low. If possible, keep indoor humidity below 60% relative humidity (ideally, between 30% to 50%). Relative humidity can be measured with a moisture or humidity meter, which is a small, inexpensive instrument that is available at many hardware stores.  

· If you see condensation or moisture collecting on windows, walls or pipes, ACT QUICKLY to dry the wet surface and reduce the moisture/water source. Condensation can be a sign of high humidity.

Actions that will help to reduce humidity:

· Vent appliances that produce moisture, such as clothes dryers, stoves, and kerosene heaters, to the outdoors, where possible. (Combustion appliances, such as stoves and kerosene heaters, produce water vapor and will increase the humidity unless vented to the outside.)  

· Use air conditioners and/or de-humidifiers when needed.  

· Run the bathroom fan or open the window when showering. Use exhaust fans or open windows whenever cooking, running the dishwasher or dishwashing, etc.

Actions that will help prevent condensation:

· Reduce the humidity (see above).  

· Increase ventilation and air movement by opening doors and/or windows, when practical.  Use fans as needed.  

· Cover icy surfaces, such as cold-water pipes, with insulation.  

· Increase air temperature.

Testing or Sampling for Mould

Is sampling for mould needed? In most cases, if visible mould growth is present, sampling is unnecessary. Since no EPA or other federal limits have been set for mould or mould spores, sampling cannot be used to check a building's compliance with federal mould standards. Surface sampling may be useful to determine if an area has been adequately cleaned or remediated. Sampling for mould should be conducted by professionals who have specific experience in designing mould sampling protocols, sampling methods, and interpreting results. Sample analysis should follow analytical methods recommended by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), or other professional organizations.

Suspicion of Hidden Mould 

You may suspect hidden mould if a building smells mouldy, but you cannot see the source, or if you know there has been water damage and residents are reporting health problems. Mould may hide in places such as the backside of dry wall, wallpaper or paneling, the topside of ceiling tiles, or the underside of carpets and pads, etc. Other locations of hidden mould include areas inside walls around pipes (with leaking or condensing pipes), the surface of walls behind furniture (where condensation forms), inside ductwork, and in roof materials above ceiling tiles (due to roof leaks or insufficient insulation).

Investigating Hidden Mould Problems 

Investigating hidden mould problems may be difficult and will require caution when the investigation involves disturbing potential sites of mould growth. For example, removal of wallpaper can lead to a massive release of spores if there is mould growing on the underside of the paper. If you believe that you may have a hidden mould problem, consider hiring an experienced professional.

Cleanup and Biocides 

Biocides are substances that can destroy living organisms. Using a chemical or biocide that kills organisms such as mould (chlorine bleach, for example) is not recommended as a routine practice during mould cleanup. There may be instances, however, when professional judgment may show its use (for example, when immune-compromised individuals are present). In most cases, it is not desirable to sterilize an area; a background level of mould spores will remain, and these spores will not grow if the moisture problem has been resolved. If you choose to use disinfectants or biocides, always ventilate the area and exhaust the air to the outdoors. Never mix chlorine bleach with other cleaning solutions or detergents that contain ammonia because toxic fumes could be produced.   

Please note: Dead mould may still cause allergic reactions in some people, so it is not enough to simply kill the mould; it must also be removed.

Ten Things You Should Know About Mould

1. Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mould exposure include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints. 

2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mould and mould spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mould growth is to control moisture.

3. If mould is a problem in your home, you must clean up the mould and eliminate sources of moisture.

4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mould growth.

5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30% to 60%) to decrease mould growth by: 

a. venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside.

b. using air conditioners and de-humidifiers.

c. increasing ventilation; and

d. using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning.  

6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mould growth.

7. Clean mould off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials that are mouldy (such as carpeting and ceiling tiles) may need to be replaced. 

8. Prevent condensation.  Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, and floors) by adding insulation. 

9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting.

10. Moulds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, provided moisture is present. There are moulds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.

Article used by permission. InterNACHI's archive. 

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THE WINTER HOME: Smart ways to Prepare your Home for Winter

 

Article May 17, 2022, | By Lifestyle Reporter

Blocked gutters, cracked foundations, rotting window and door frames, mould, and burst water pipes are just some woes that property owners can experience during the harsh winter months.

Given that homes are the largest investment for many South Africans, and that it can be extremely costly to repair cold weather damage, it makes financial sense to invest some time and money in preventative measures.

Shafeeka Anthony, marketing manager of personal finance website JustMoney.co.za, says: “Houses can take a real hammering during the winter. Whether rain, harsh winds, hail or frost occur in your area, it’s best to undertake any outstanding maintenance sooner rather than later.

“Start by checking the property exterior, then progress to the interior. This will not only help prevent expensive repair bills down the line, but will help ensure that you and your family are snug and cheerful during the cold months.”

JustMoney offers the following ten property maintenance tips:

1. Cut back vegetation: Overhanging trees can drop branches and leaves on your and your neighbour’s roof and prevent sun from warming your home. Check the health of your trees and trim branches back if needed. Sweep walkways and pavements to prevent slipping.

2. Clear rain gutters: Autumn leaves can pile up in gutters, so clear them and ensure they function properly. While you’re on the roof, look out for any missing or cracked tiles or shingles. Add downspout extenders to your gutters if necessary to prevent water from pooling at the foundation.

3. Inspect windows and doors: Check for cracked, chipping or peeling paint. Insulate any draughty openings to keep cold at bay and decrease heating costs.

4. Prepare your pool: Inspect and shut down your pool system. If you discover problems, autumn is a good time to schedule repairs as pool contractors are less busy.

5. Adjust your irrigation system: Adjust water times and check for broken lines to avoid wasting water.

6. Check outdoor lighting: Ensure that outdoor lights are operational to optimise visibility during early morning departures and late arrivals home. A well-lit exterior will enhance both your personal safety and home security.

7. Heat your home: Check ceiling insulation and clean your chimney. Ensure that oil, gas, or underfloor heating systems are operational. Cut and stack garden wood or place your order for a delivery of firewood. Store it in a clean, dry location.

8. Make an entrance: Place dirt-trapping, rubber-backed door mats at main doors. Install hooks or a rail to hang wet, heavy coats.

9. Add layers: Installing thick, lined curtains, and placing rugs on the floor will help keep surroundings cosy. Fragranced candles, textured throws and additional cushions add comfort. Don’t forget your pets. Ensure they have sufficient clean, warm bedding, and consider a bird feeder in the garden.

10. Fund repairs wisely: Some preventative measures require only a layer of varnish and a few nails. Other repairs are expensive and call for the services of a professional, for example a tree cutter with the appropriate horticultural training and insurance. Ask friends for recommendations and shop around to ensure you get the best value for your hard-earned money.

“The cost of property repairs is a timely reminder of the importance of building up emergency savings,” says Anthony. “Ideally, you should have sufficient funds to cover your costs for six months. It’s also a good idea to check whether some repairs might be covered under your insurance policy.”

Repairs could also be funded via your home loan if you have built up sufficient resources. Your mortgage bond is the lowest interest loan you will ever get.

“Alternatively, you may have to fund repairs by taking out a personal loan. It’s vital to be fully aware of the type, purpose and conditions of any debt before taking it on. Only apply for a personal loan if you are confident that you can make the repayments comfortably,” says Anthony.

Ten smart ways to prepare your home for winter (ecr.co.za)

Check for moisture

There are two areas in your home that are prone to mould. 

Be on the lookout for mould wherever moisture has intruded and do something about it before it becomes a health risk. 

Kitchen

It is easy to overlook the warning signs of excess moisture and impending water damage. Learn to keep an eye out for these all-too-common sources of moisture damage.

Under the Kitchen Sink

Under the sink is not just for storage and the trash can. It is often the starting point for many water-related problems. Dampness and musty odours are common signs of a leak.

Is a drip in the trap under the sink going unnoticed? It’s a warning sign of potentially serious drain problems.

Is a steady drip at a faucet going unnoticed? Recommend that it be repaired promptly.

Are there damp or stained areas in or under the wall where the plumbing pipes penetrate?

Are there large holes in the wall with smaller pipes coming through? These holes should be filled with appropriate foams, caulks and sealants.

Is the floor beneath the plumbing penetrations soft or stained?

Around the Kitchen Sink

The kitchen sink is a high-traffic zone that sees more action than almost any other place in the home. 

Is the backsplash cracked? Are the sink seals cracked or lose?

Is the countertop tile or grout cracked, broken or missing?  Although it may appear to be only a minor cosmetic issue, it’s not a minor issue when it comes to moisture control.

Under the Dishwasher

This workhorse appliance is often overlooked as a water damage risk.

Most inspectors turn on and operate the dishwasher in order to look for failures in operation. 

If the dishwasher backs up or overflows into the sink, there may be a clogged drain line.  The drain line should be cleaned regularly.

If the dishwasher fails to completely empty after use, the main filter and drain may be clogged.

Find a small leak in the dishwasher water supply hose? It needs to be replaced immediately.

Behind the Refrigerator

We rarely inspect behind the refrigerator.  But a check-up may prevent messy problems. If the refrigerator has an icemaker, check for damage or disconnection of the supply line.

Moisture behind the refrigerator is a big red flag.  Even if you can diagnose the source of the problem, call out for a professional.  Don’t ignore even a slight leak or kink in the icemaker supply line.

If unidentifiable mouldy objects are growing underneath the refrigerator, call them out.  There shouldn’t be any moisture under the refrigerator.

If the model has a drain pan, check the pan for cleanliness, bacterial and other growths.

Beneath the Cooking Range

Open the bottom drawer to inspect underneath the stove. You may see signs of moisture or mould.

Kitchen Exhaust Fans and Filters

Fans and filters are small items that play a big role in moisture and mould management. Some fans merely filter and re-circulate air, which does not reduce moisture produced from cooking.

Is the range exhaust filter caked and dirty?

Is the exhaust fan covered with dust?

If there are down-vented indoor grills, check them. They should be clean to ensure the free flow of air.

Bathroom Problems.

What to Look For

Plumbing

Most plumbing is hidden in the walls, and serious problems can begin "invisibly." 

Listen for tiny drips in the wall.

If a wall is damp to the touch or discoloured, there is moisture damage in progress.

Any visible leaks under the sink or around the toilet need to be fixed before they lead to more serious and expensive moisture damage.

Signs of water damage in flooring in the bathroom, or on the ceilings of rooms below a bathroom, are a red flag of a possible water leak.

Exhaust Fan

One of the most important tools for moisture management in the bathroom is the exhaust fan.

A non-functioning exhaust fan overloads the bathroom with damp air.

If the exhaust fan doesn’t come on automatically when the bathroom light is turned on, consider recommending a wiring or switch change so that the fan will activate simultaneously with the light.  A switch can also be installed that turns on the fan when the bathroom humidity is high, or that uses a timer switch that will operate the fan for 30 to 40 minutes after a shower.

Be certain that the bathroom exhaust fan vents to the outdoors, and not into the house or attic. 

Toilet

The toilet has critical inlet and outlet functions that need to be sealed so that they're leak-free.

Make sure there are no leaks in the water line.

Check for signs of staining and water damage on the floor.  If present, immediately check the toilet rim seal and tank seal. If the toilet rocks back and forth when pushed slightly (using your leg), the floor drain may not be sealed properly to the toilet.

If the floor around the toilet seems soft or seems to give, structural damage may be occurring.

Windows

Bathroom windows need to perform properly in a wide range of humidity and temperature conditions.

Check to see if there are any obvious breaks in the weatherstripping or seals.

Are there stains or flaking on the painted surfaces?

Showers and Bathtubs

Areas that are exposed to this much water need close inspection.

Is the caulking cracked, stiff or loose in spots?


Are there cracked tiles or missing grout that may channel water to vulnerable areas?

If some water remains in the bathtub after draining, it may be a warning sign of possible structural weakening and settlement in the floor beneath the tub.

Used with permission: InterNACHI