Homeowner Guides
Practical, friendly home advice for Upper Valley homeowners in New Hampshire and Vermont, from winter prep to finding the right local pro.
Getting Your Upper Valley Home Ready for Winter: Pipes, Chimneys & Heating
A practical checklist for NH and VT homeowners before the deep cold sets in: protecting pipes, getting the chimney checked, servicing your heating system, and finding energy-efficiency help.
6 min read
Testing Your Private Well Water in New Hampshire and Vermont
Why Upper Valley well owners should test their water regularly, what to test for, and how to read the results.
5 min read
Septic System Care: Pumping, Inspections and Warning Signs
A simple guide to keeping your septic system healthy, from pumping schedules to what never goes down the drain.
5 min read
Radon in Upper Valley Homes: Testing and Mitigation Basics
Radon is common in New Hampshire and Vermont. Here's how to test your home and what to do if levels are high.
4 min read
Preventing Ice Dams and Handling Roof Snow
What causes ice dams on Upper Valley roofs, how to clear snow safely, and the long-term fixes that work.
5 min read
Cold-Climate Heat Pumps: What Upper Valley Homeowners Should Know
Can a heat pump really heat a Vermont or New Hampshire house in January? Here's how they work and what to ask an installer.
6 min read
Mud Season Home Care: Drainage, Basements and Driveways
Spring thaw tests every Upper Valley property. Here's how to keep water away from your foundation and your basement dry.
5 min read
Power Outage Prep and Safe Generator Use
Storms knock out power across the Upper Valley every year. Here's how to prepare and use a generator safely.
5 min read
Keeping Mice and Other Pests Out This Fall
When the weather cools, rodents move indoors. A simple seal-up, trap-up, clean-up plan for Upper Valley homes.
4 min read
How to Hire a Contractor in the Upper Valley
A practical checklist for choosing a builder, remodeler or tradesperson in New Hampshire or Vermont.
6 min read