Castor Construction Group

When you use an electrical appliance, the current flows from your service panel to the device. A grounded wire gives the unused electrical current a safe way back to the service panel so there’s no danger in the event of a short circuit.

You may have seen an electrical outlet with a “test” and “reset” button in the middle – this is a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter). It automatically shuts off an electrical circuit when it detects that the current isn’t flowing correctly. It’s also used to reduce the risk of electrical shock from a receptacle located in damp locations and/or counter top areas

Low-voltage fixtures include a transformer to reduce voltage (say from 120 volts to 12 volts). The downside to low-voltage fixtures, however, can be higher installation costs. Also, transformers tend to create heat and mounting locations can be tricky.

LED lights are more expensive to purchase than incandescent lights, but they’re more efficient (they’ll last 50,000 hours instead of 1,200 hours). They also have a lower annual operating cost, which is great for people trying to “go green.”

When the electrical current that passes through a fuse exceeds the limit, it burns a hole in the thin strip of metal. This stops the flow of current and it means you have a blown a fuse. Fuses need to be replaced (not reset). When the electrical current exceeds the limit through a circuit breaker, however, the breaker trip setting opens to stop the flow of current. Breakers are re-settable by flipping the handle on the face of the breaker.

First, make sure there are not too many appliances plugged into one circuit, as this can overload it. If it’s just one appliance, unplug it and either replace it or call us to repair it. You could also try connecting another appliance to the problematic receptacle. If it still shows signs of trouble, have the receptacle and or the circuit checked by our home electrical service experts

The third prong on a plug is a grounding prong. Two-prong receptacles do not have the same level of grounding as a three-prong device. The third grounding prong provides additional protection to the electrical system, the item plugged in, and you from electrical shock.

When you reach to your light switch to turn it off, only to find that it is hot to the touch, you have a problem. This is not a normal phenomenon, and it indicates that there are serious issues hiding behind your walls. If you don't get help right away, you could end up facing a serious electrical fire in your home.

A surge protector is a piece of equipment that suppresses the excess voltage in your system to prevent it from causing harm to your appliances and devices. You should get some to protect your appliances and devices from power surges.

Several years ago, the code was updated and it requires us to install arc fault breakers in the house wherever there are new lines being installed except for where GFCI devices are required (kitchens and bathrooms, etc.). This is a major breakthrough in our industry. This is one of the most intelligent breakers. They monitor the current and discriminate between normal and unwanted arcing conditions. Arc fault breakers are primarily designed to protect against electrical fires caused by arcing.

Almost all roofs can have solar panels installed on them, the biggest factor is the condition of the roof. Other factors such as Material, Pitch, Shape and Size, Orientation, and Amount of shade are also key.

Most states allow "net metering", which is when you produce more power than you consume, creating a surplus of energy that can be turned into credit. Excess power can, in some states, be sold back to utility companies as well.

When dealing with leaks it is important to keep in mind that water wants to find the path of least resistance to travel, which means that your leak could present itself in parts of your house that aren't close to the actual leak. One solution is to go into your attic or crawl space with a flashlight the next time it rains and try to trace the leak. Visible signs, such as pooling water or damaged drywall/building materials should be present. However, this isn't always effective due to walls or other physical obstructions blocking your view. The most accurate way to track the leak is to have a professional come out and access the leak.

Numerous studies have shown that purchasing a solar system will increase the value of your property. However, if you have your system installed under a solar lease/PPA agreement, it will most likely not increase your property value.

Most damage that a roof will take on is the direct force of nature. Severe weather, including typhoons, haboobs, hailstorms, snowstorms, and tornados contribute to the degradation of a roof. Algae and mildew, as well as sunlight, can also be a source of roof damage.

The primary maintenance includes cleaning and debridement of any buildup that has occurred. This should be done around every 6 months however many factors can come into play. Always read your manufacturer's literature on proper cleaning methods. Occasional repairs, which can range from replacing wires to fixing mounts, can occur. Always make sure to contact a licensed contractor for any of your repair needs.

One of the big questions to ask is the age of the roof. If a roof is older than 15 years it may be time to contact a local contractor to inspect your roof and give their recommendation on how to proceed. Generally speaking cracked, broken and curled shingles can be replaced individually and are often the cause of issues like leaks. Roofs with widespread issues are more likely to need replacing, as the whole roof system may be compromised.

The majority of solar companies claim that their solar panels will produce at a profitable efficiency for at least 25 years. Over time your solar panels will suffer from a slight degradation of about 0.8-1.2 percent per year of the original efficiency. The degradation is often caused by dirt, pollen, and other external factors, so it is important to remember to clean and maintain your panels.

If your roof is old and underperforming, roof replacement can help lower energy bills. Ideally, an attic should remain close to the outside temperature, but overheating in this space during the summer is a sign of inadequate ventilation. This inadequate ventilation can cause an HVAC system to work much harder than necessary. A new roof helps ensure that your HVAC system can work properly and keep stress off the system causing more power to be consumed.

Nearly every state now offers tax credits as an incentive for citizens to switch to solar power. Depending on where you live, you might be able to use tax credits to subsidize a large part of your solar installation.

Your roofing system is comprised of several layers, all performing a different function. Generally speaking, replacing the entire system is the best route for improving the roof’s performance. The different layers of a roof can include leak barrier protection, sythetic roof deck protection, starter strip shingles, lifetime shingles, and ventilation.

Modern solar panel options currently available fit in one of three types: monocrystalline, polycrystalline (also known as multi-crystalline), and thin-film. These solar panels vary in how they’re constructed, appearance, performance level, costs, and the installations each are best suited for. These factors can help you determine which type of panel would best suit your installation needs.

In short no. There are projects which can be completed with a DIY mentality, however, due to the dangers of working on ones' roof, completing a roof replacement yourself isn't something that should be attempted. Not only do thousands of Americans die annually from falling from roofs, but you could be violating your roof's current warranty which could wind up costing you down the line.

The average home can save between $10,000 and $30,000 over the lifetime of your solar panel system. There are several key factors including the location of the home, cost of utilities, and power consumption.

Weather typically plays the largest factor in timing when to get your roof replaced. While contractors work year-round, factors like snow, rain, ice, and sleet can impact how quickly roofers can safely and effectively get their roof finished.

This can be broken down into four main steps: Planning and Safety, Wiring and Electrical, Mounting Panels, and Solar Battery Installation.

There is no straightforward answer because every roof is different. Roofing contractors consider a few factors when pricing out new roof installations: size, old roof removal, style, shape, materials, and labor. In addition to these factors, your roof could include other features like chimneys, skylights, and vents that need to be factored into the cost. Contact a licensed roofer near you to get an accurate quote.

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory says a 2-kilowatt system, which should offset the electricity use of an average-sized home, estimates the system will cost about $8 to $10 per square foot ($16,000 to $20,000 total) before state and federal rebates and incentives.

The longevity of your roof will depend on its materials, its installation, and its ventilation. Weather conditions may also impact the life of your roof. A well-constructed roof can last between 12-15 years. Depending on the quality and type of shingles you chose and the underlayment of your roof, that number can go up to 30 or more years.

When assessing whether or not to replace your roof the first question that should be asked is "How old is my roof?". Most roofs will last around 15 years but signs that it is time to replace your roof could include: holes in your roof, missing or damaged shingles, or leaks.

Always ask your contractor for a projected timeline of the project. Depending on the needs of your project you could be waiting for permits, or inspection to occur. In other cases, you could be waiting for fabrication to happen, such as building custom cabinets.

Always check with your local building department or contractor for the best answer. In most communities, an architect isn't required, however, some urban areas will require an architect or engineer to sign off on your plans.

Usually, you will require a permit if you are changing the structure of the home. This includes remodels like altering the roofline, adding a sunroom, or putting in an indoor fireplace. Remodels that focus on aesthetics, such as putting in new flooring or new fixtures like a bathtub, that don't alter the overall structure of the house typically don’t require a permit, but always double-check with your contractor.

The best way to approach this question is to consider the average rent in the area of the property, the potential tenants that would rent your property, i.e. college students vs a young family, and the overall aesthetic and functionality of the property. As an owner, you want to make sure you don't overprice your prospective tenants out of your property by adding unnecessary or expensive remodels.

Most home renovations will follow a similar workflow. Generally speaking, demolition comes first which includes stripping out and removal of old appliances, walls, flooring, and fixtures. Next comes structural work which includes sub-floors, foundation work, framing, adding drywall to ceilings/walls and basic plumbing/wiring is then installed. Windows and doors could be added at this point as well. Next up comes plastering and flooring installation. Plumbing, heating, wiring, and lighting are all then finished. The final steps are the bathroom and kitchen fit-out, which can include the installation of lights, sinks, cabinets, and backsplashes.