Mrs. Olson said: ” Lon, I have been completely pleased with the work you did on my home. It is too bad all the renovations were to sell the home because it would have been nice to enjoy the work you did. Not only was the work done to my specifications, but your recommendations and improvements on my plans were excellent, your work was thorough, you were clean, and respected my home. I will definitely recommend you to my friends and neighbors. Thanks again for all of your help.”
Thanks for the nice note and for choosing Ask Lon. Also, special thanks to Linda Stromberg @ CENTURY 21 Marino Real Estate, Inc. for her assistance throughout this process.
Each year, around this time, I’m reminded of the time my parents home caught fire becase of a dirty dryer vent. It’s true, and had it not been for Aunt Betty, who just happened to be visiting, the entire house would have been lost.
The fire department arrived to extinguish the blaze, and thankfully no one was hurt. Still, the washer, dryer and everything within 30 sq ft. were completely engulfed in flame.
The event remains surreal, “these things only happen to other people”, yet this entire episode could have been avoided by replacing and/or diligent cleaning the dryer vent hose.*
The fix was simple; dad replaced it with rigid metal pipe. We learned later that no matter what material is used, it’s recommended that the duct be cleaned (at minimum) annually!!
We’ve shot this video to show you how simple it is to do yourself. Obviously, call me if you need to replace the flexible plastic duct with a safer rigid material; or should you want us to clean it for you.
Finally, don’t leave your home with the dryer running and never sleep with it on.
Be safe,
Lon
* Note: The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that 15,000 clothes dryer fires occur annually. These fires account for an average of 10 deaths, 310 injuries, and more than $84.4 million in property damage.
Telltale signs of a potential problem:
Clothes are taking longer than normal to dry
Portions of clothing are still damp after a typical cycle
You can see lint accumulation around the dryer door gasket
Lint buildup is also visible inside the machine when the lint screen is removed
“I am thrilled with not only the quality of work Lon provided but with his response to my many questions. His rates beat all other offers and working with him was easy and pleasant.” Carrie, – Wrigleyville
“Lon, the basement is beautiful, it's finished, and we love the space. Finishing the window couldn't compare to the value of every dollar poured into our deck! I love that space! :-) - Seema, - Morton Grove
“Lon, do you realize how far ahead of the competition you are? Based on your performance you really need to raise your rates.”- Bill – Lincoln Park
