<span class="hide-blog-title">The Inspector</span>By NPI, Inc.https://npiweb.com/Blog/PostsHow to Have a Very Merry Christmas (and Other Holiday Home Safety Tips)https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1566/how-to-have-a-very-merry-christmas-and-other-holiday-home-safety-tipsHoliday,Home Maintenance,Just for Fun,SafetyMon, 25 Dec 2023 19:19:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO HAVE A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS (AND OTHER HOLIDAY HOME SAFETY TIPS)</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> December 25, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/winter">winter</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/electrical">electrical</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kitchen">kitchen</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/pets">pets</a></p> <p>Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all who celebrate!</p> <p>The holiday season is a great opportunity to take some time off from work and enjoy friends and family. While these breaks can certainly have its joyful moments, there’s something about meeting up with friends and family that can lead to an air of chaos. If you’re expecting guests who have a tendency of getting caught in hairy situations, it just might be smart to take a few safety precautions along the way.</p> <p>To ensure a very merry Christmas break, here are a few home safety tips homeowners should keep in mind while weathering the holidays.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Monitor Ice and Snow</span><br /> If you’re expecting a degree of icy or snowy weather throughout the holidays, it may be wise to make some extra efforts to keep your driveway and sidewalks cleared. You may have family members in town who aren’t used to dealing with frosty conditions. Take precautions that no one gets hurt from slipping on unattended patches of ice. With that said, those that may have the impulse of piling on the sidewalk salt or other ice melt solutions should wait and rethink their options.</p> <p>While effective at melting ice, rock salt can also damage shoes and clothing, and its corrosive effects can even damage vehicles as well as your home’s masonry. According to the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.epa.gov/snep/winter-coming-and-it-tons-salt-our-roads" target="_blank">EPA</a>, salt causes roughly five billion dollars worth of damage on an annual basis, and ice melt products can have long-reaching effects on your lawn, extending cracks in the cement and expediting erosion. Take the time to hunt for environmentally-friendly options and then use it sparingly only after shoveling for the best experience.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Anticipate Electrical Overload</span><br /> With more guests in the home than usual, it’s reasonable to expect a bit more power demand. Often, homeowners don’t realize that they’re running near their limitations of single circuit power usage until someone new comes along and plugs in an extra heater, hairdryer, or laptop charger. Rather than deal with the ensuing panic from an outage, realize that overloads are easily correctable with some reconfiguration.</p> <p>Usually outages occur when a single circuit is overloaded, so homeowners can work to utilize their circuits that are under less use by moving new devices into these other parts of the house. If you don’t already have access to your home’s circuit map, it may be useful to create your own and then make a rough calculation to determine where you may be close to exceeding a circuit’s limitation (for more information on how to create a circuit map, check out this guide from experts at the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/preventing-electrical-overloads/" target="_blank">Family Handyman</a>).</p> <p>One final point regarding electrical concerns: keep in mind that if guests bring their pets along for the trip, extra precautions may be needed to tuck cords and Christmas lights away from easy access. Cats and dogs are notorious for letting their curiosity get the better of them. In this case, it may be better to help them avoid a shocking life lesson.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Cook with Ambition (and Prepare a Backup)</span><br /> Family reunions tend to be accompanied by an anticipated feast, and as the host, it’s not out of the ordinary to try new things. Broadening your cooking horizons is a great idea! But for those that are particularly inexperienced in the kitchen, take some time to review a few basic cooking safety tips before diving head first into that new recipe.</p> <p>Start off by confirming that your emergency equipment is working properly (meaning your smoke alarm, fire extinguisher, and first aid kit). Then, make sure you are appropriately attired for the job - that means no dangling necklaces or loose-fitting clothing that could get tangled up in the activity. Finally, most kitchen fires occur simply due to leaving food unattended. Limit distractions and maybe recruit a cooking partner, then have at it (and review some extra cooking safety tips per the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.redcross.org/local/dc-va-md-de/about-us/news-and-events/press-releases/10-Holiday-Cooking-Safety-Tips-from-Red-Cross.html" target="_blank">Red Cross</a>)!</p> <p>As a final note, although fumbling a new recipe and having to pivot to a tried-and-true backup can be disappointing, remember that the main point of the holidays is to enjoy each other’s company. Best of luck!</p> <p><em>From everyone here at National Property Inspections, we wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a Happy New Year!</em></p> 1566How to be a Good Host During the Holidayshttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1564/how-to-be-a-good-host-during-the-holidaysCleaning Tips,Holiday,Home Decor,Home Inspection,Home Maintenance,Just for Fun,SafetyMon, 11 Dec 2023 19:09:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO BE A GOOD HOST DURING THE HOLIDAYS</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> December 11, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=cleaning-tips">Cleaning Tips</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just For Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/winter">winter</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/living-room">living room</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/roof">roof</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-exterior">home exterior</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/organization">organization</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kids">kids</a></p> <p>Hosting family and friends over the holidays can be a tough task. On one hand, it’s wonderful to reconnect with loved ones, especially those that live far away. On the other hand, getting a busy home in order can feel like an intimidating task after a year of balancing a demanding work schedule along with messy pets, and maybe kids with their own affinity for chaos. In preparation for the holidays, here are a few extra things that you can do to go above and beyond making your out-of-town guests feel welcome!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Check On Your Roof’s Stability</span><br /> One pet peeve that is so common for guests is lack of decent parking. Whatever system that’s worked for your family throughout the rest of the year likely will have to change at least a bit once a new vehicle is introduced. So, unless you’re blessed with a larger-than-average parking situation, consider thinking ahead for some alternatives that allow extra room for guests.</p> <p>The common holiday struggle of juggling cars in the driveway is exactly why some considerate guests may take it upon themselves to use some sorely underutilized parking areas - such as the space on top of your roof. What many fail to realize is roofs are left tragically unused by the majority of homeowners. Their surface area is easily large enough to house the family vehicle, whether you drive a GMC Yukon or a sleigh with eight to nine tiny reindeer.</p> <p>Of course, the one issue with this parking space is that homeowners can be neglectful of their roofs. Between loose shingles and the build up of moss and algae due to moisture, roofs can commonly see their lifespans shortened if certain issues are left unaddressed. This leaves more room for water intrusion and increasingly unstable footholds for roof pedestrians. According to home maintenance professionals over at <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.thisoldhouse.com/foundations/reviews/water-damage-statistics" target="_blank">This Old House</a>, water damage due to a leaky roof is actually one of the most costly issues homeowners face.</p> <p>Checking up on your roof’s condition through <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">a home maintenance inspection</a> with a residential inspection professional, or even conducting a few <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/tips-to-prolong-the-life-of-your-roof-and-your-home">DIY roof maintenance activities</a> on your own may be wise in preparation for your holiday guests.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Ensure Easy Chimney Access</span><br /> When it comes to welcoming your guests into your home, it’s also wise to start off with a good first impression. Entryways and mudrooms have a tendency to gather clutter over time with coats, boots, and bags all vying for their own convenient resting places. Because of this, it’s understandable that these spaces can become blindspots for home organization efforts - but this common issue doesn’t have to become a hurdle during the holiday season!</p> <p>Try to set some time aside to reorganize all of your entryways, find new <em>permanent</em> homes for any clutter or stray items, and consider developing a new system to keep these areas that way in the meantime. We’ve previously discussed the benefits of doing this <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/home-organization-tips-for-back-to-school-season">before the school year</a>, but these concepts can come in handy any time of the year if your home is in need of a bit of a reset!</p> <p>On the subject of cluttered entryways, one route that is almost universally ignored is, of course, the chimney! Climbing down the flue at late hours of the night (while often battling slippery rooftop snow and ice) is tough enough on its own <em>before</em> encountering the dust, soot, and sometimes other obstructions like twigs, bird’s nests, or even living animals. Did you know that neglected chimneys naturally fill up with flammable materials, and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that chimneys be inspected every year (check out <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyMZU1FlxWM" target="_blank">their informational video on this subject</a>)?</p> <p>Before the holidays, take some time to clean up all of your entryways and order a chimney inspection! For more information on the importance of chimney maintenance, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/4-things-that-can-go-wrong-with-your-chimney">here are a few things</a> that can go wrong when left ignored for too long.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Consider Some New Home Decor</span><br /> Finally, nothing makes a guest feel welcome quite like some nice, nostalgic, cozy holiday decor. Take some time to hang stockings by the chimney, add lights to your front doorway, and wrap garland around your banister. Or go all out with the holiday decorating traditions your family enjoys! Celebrating the holidays with your guests can look very different from household to household, but those that make the effort to clearly switch things up will have a lot more luck ushering in some yuletide glee.</p> <p>Now concerning snacks, it is safe to assume that your guests will get a little peckish when you’re not around. Allowing them free reign to rummage through your cupboards can feel invasive. Instead, leave out a plate at night (preferably near the chimney) and add your choice of midnight treats (maybe a few sugar cookies and a cup of milk, for example). Ultimately, there’s no exact formula for creating a festive home. But if you’re looking for more ideas and inspiration, here are <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/10-easy-ways-to-create-a-festive-home">a few more options</a> to ensure a very Merry Christmas.</p> <p><em>Still wondering if your home is ready for the rigor of your upcoming winter shindig? <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">Contact your local NPI Inspector</a> to see how they can help prep your home for the holidays!</em></p> 1564How to Survive a Scary Moviehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1531/how-to-survive-a-scary-movieCleaning Tips,Holiday,Home Maintenance,Just for FunMon, 23 Oct 2023 19:37:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO SURVIVE A SCARY MOVIE</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> October 23, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=cleaning-tips">Cleaning Tips</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/fall">fall</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/organization">organization</a></p> <p>Since we’ve previously discussed how to confirm whether your home is active with the paranormal, we thought it might be valuable to go over some additional Halloween-time survival strategies. When watching a scary movie, it’s easy to become frustrated by the classic mistakes and gaffes that the characters make as they bungle their way into the killer’s hands. Although it’s reasonable to assume that the stress and terror of running for your life can keep you from making practical decisions, choices made by horror movie protagonists can be baffling.</p> <p>In the inevitable case that you end up cornered by a masked, knife-wielding stranger straight out of a slasher movie, you don’t want to fall for the same old slip-ups. To be better prepared, we consulted some of the best minds in home maintenance, organization, and personal fitness for their tips on surviving a scary movie.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">How To Tell That You’re In A Scary Movie</span><br /> Naturally, the first step for surviving a scary movie is to confirm that you are, in fact, living in a scary movie yourself. Although it may seem painfully obvious to audience goers that the characters shouldn’t investigate that noise in the attic, or search their creepy, unfinished basement to reset the breakers, remember that these are just homeowners attempting to perform regular home maintenance tasks. </p> <p>Some easy signs that may indicate you’re in a horror film include: </p> <ol> <li>It is a dark and stormy night. </li> <li>You live in a big, old house. </li> <li>Your neighbors are strange. </li> <li>You live by or near a cemetery and/or graveyard. </li> </ol> <p>While each factor is not definitive, studies indicate that one or more of these elements appearing in conjunction exponentially increases the chances that you are, in fact, in a scary movie. For more information on identifying whether your home is haunted, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/how-to-tell-if-your-house-is-haunted">check out our previous blog</a>!</p> <p><em>On a dark and stormy night, electrical issues have a knack of popping up, plus heavy rains can lead to leaking and mold if left unaddressed. Ask your local NPI inspector about their <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Inspection-Services/Specialty-Services">thermography</a> and <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Inspection-Services/Specialty-Services">mold inspections</a> to keep your home safe and repair costs down!</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What Not To Do While In A Scary Movie </span><br /> Once you’ve confirmed that your cozy night at home will instead be occupied by running from an odd fellow in a hockey mask, there are few things in particular worth avoiding, starting with your cell phone. A natural impulse will always be to call for help, but don’t fall for this trap! Whether your phone is dead, lost, or service is down, simply calling for help never works in a scary movie. In fact, more often not, the time spent searching for a phone is what leads someone to their demise. </p> <p>On the other end of things, every natural impulse in a survival scenario would suggest that there is strength in numbers. Despite this, if you find yourself in a scary movie you will undoubtedly suggest splitting up, or perhaps you’ll encounter a strong desire to run off and investigate that peculiar sound coming from the basement on your own. Resist this! Don’t say, “I’ll be right back.” Don’t be curious. Remember all of those times that you screamed at your television screen watching those cheap horror flicks and choose to stay with the group instead. </p> <p>Avoiding pitfalls isn't all that it takes to survive scary movie scenarios, however. Survival and safety around the home is best accomplished by thinking ahead and taking preventive measures.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Scary Movie Survival Tips</span></p> <ol> <li><strong>Start with Run-Worthy Footwear</strong><br /> While there are many strategies that homeowners can employ to assuage a horror movie scenario, filling a house with Kevin McCallister-caliber traps and tripwires are impractical for anyone wanting to live comfortably. A far more sensible start should be to secure a pair of tennis shoes that are durable enough to handle all sorts of debris and conditions.<br /> <br /> Homeowners are sure to need sensible footwear when performing regular maintenance tasks anyway, whether they are <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/getting-your-gutters-in-shape-for-spring-and-summer">cleaning their gutters</a>, or <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/the-ultimate-guide-to-lawn-care-part-1-tips-for-a-healthy-and-beautiful-yard">spending time in the garden</a>. The benefits are aplenty, so don’t catch yourself stumbling out of your flip flops from a crazed slasher’s pursuit. <br />  </li> <li><strong>Reduce Unnecessary Clutter </strong><br /> By October 31st, the school year is in full swing. Naturally, it can be hard to keep a house clean and organized while balancing work with the kids’ school schedules. With that said, homeowners will regret a cluttered, messy home when they discover that their Halloween night is going to be produced by A24.<br /> <br /> Cut down on the number of dolls in your home (they are prone to possessions), and minimize tripping hazards when maneuvering up and down any staircases. Slips and falls are always dangerous, plus a tidy home and workspace is proven to improve productivity and mental wellness! Learn more about keeping your home organized throughout the school year by exploring <a class="color-secondary" href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HJI42XOZQ7nvSMJkXEbrKIjOY5WAUHWnCRddkh2hHrI/edit">our recent article</a>.<br />  </li> <li><strong>Don’t Forget About Cardio </strong><br /> Finally, any preparation will be for naught if you find yourself huffing and puffing when you should be tracking down a neighbor for help, or throwing a cursed item into the fire. A healthy workout routine will help you create some extra distance during your chases down those long, dark hallways.<br /> <br /> One great way to make your exercise schedule more attainable and convenient is to remodel that spare room into a home gym! To prepare for your next big home project, contact <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">your local NPI home inspector</a> to ensure your house can handle the change, or recommend any fixes before you’re caught by surprise. Home maintenance problems that go unaddressed for too long can turn into additional damage and unwanted repair bills - talk about scary! Stick with National Property Inspections to keep your screams to a minimum this fall.</li> </ol> <p> </p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">NPI is Celebrating Halloween All October!</span><br /> Every fall, we tour North America and visit some of the most famous haunted locations. Check out <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/haunted-places-series-winchester-mystery-house">our most recent stop</a>, and have a happy Halloween!</p> 1531Haunted Places Series: Winchester Mystery Househttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1530/haunted-places-series-winchester-mystery-houseHoliday,Just for FunMon, 16 Oct 2023 18:42:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HAUNTED PLACES SERIES: WINCHESTER MYSTERY HOUSE</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> October 16, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/fall">fall</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/haunted-places-series">Haunted Places Series</a></p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Location:</span> San Jose, California<br /> <span class="emphasis-primary">Architectural Style:</span> Exterior: Queen Anne-Style Victorian; Interior: Aesthetic Movement<br /> <span class="emphasis-primary">Built:</span> 1886 - 1922</p> <p>As we progress through the Halloween season, we thought there was no location more appropriate to visit than one of the most notoriously unusual architectural wonders of North America - and the tale of the woman behind it all. For our next entry, we visit the Winchester Mystery House.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Sarah Pardee</span><br /> Sarah Lockwood Pardee was born in 1839 in New Haven, Connecticut. In her upper-class New England home, Sarah had by all accounts a happy childhood with access to fantastic education, going on to learn four foreign languages (Latin, French, Spanish, and Italian). Pardee studied at Yale College’s associated female scholastic institution and became known for both her extraordinary intelligence and her beauty. Called the “Belle of New Haven,” Sarah had many admirers.</p> <p>In 1862, Sarah married William Wirt Winchester, a brother to one of her classmates and member of a wealthy New Haven family. William was an only son and, therefore, sole heir to his father’s considerable manufacturing company, the Winchester Repeating Arms Company. William and Sarah Winchester were a well-off, idyllic young couple, but early on, tragedy beset the Winchesters.</p> <p>In 1866, Sarah gave birth to a daughter whom she named Annie. Unfortunately, the child did not live long, suffering from marasmus, a disease that causes severe malnutrition. Annie would be Sarah’s only child, and when William died of tuberculosis in 1881, Sarah was a widowed heiress to what had become a massive fortune, inheriting somewhere around $20 million dollars and nearly 50% of the Winchester company’s total stock.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Llanada Villa</span><br /> After being widowed, the line separating the history of Sarah Winchester from the legend blurs, but there are a few things that can be determined for certain. For one reason or another, Sarah Winchester left her lifelong home of Connecticut and moved across the country near what today is San Jose, California. There, she bought a two-story farmhouse where she decided to make her new home.</p> <p>This farmhouse, which she called <em>Llanada Villa</em>, would not remain the simple structure she bought for long, as Sarah herself began to chart and design ambitious additions. Carpenters and laborers were hired full-time and work began officially in 1886 with no end in sight. Ceaseless designs, redesigns, additions, and teardowns were ordered with results that were both beautiful and bizarre.</p> <p>By 1904, the farmhouse had become a monstrous 7-story mansion, undoubtedly a sight to behold. It is hard to say where the expansion would have stopped if an earthquake had not damaged the top three floors and caused considerable damage to the mansion’s exterior. Since then, the building continued, but instead of building up, Winchester built outwards. The estate transformed into a sprawling structure really unlike anything else anyone had seen.</p> <p>Construction continued on, in fact, until Sarah Winchester’s death on September 5, 1922. In her wake, <em>Llanada Villa</em> remained, a mystery house with seemingly endless secrets to be discovered.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Mystery House</span><br /> With Sarah Winchester’s eccentric home finally available for viewing, the public was finally able to fully take in the extravagance and the idiosyncrasies hidden inside. Each room was covered with finery and opulence clearly inspired by the aesthetic movement. In short, art for art’s sake: a co-mingling of visually stimulating design with everyday life, and an emphasis on “beauty” over practicality. The woodwork, the flooring, the wallpaper, almost everything was intricately designed with clear Victorian taste in mind. Then, beyond this design philosophy, the public found the peculiarities that helped make the mansion famous.</p> <p>Stairwells led to nowhere, guided straight to the ceiling. A doorway opened from an upper floor into the building’s exterior, and a 15-foot drop to the hedges below. Secret passageways galore, cupboards opening into entire hidden wings, and skylights built into the floor make the mansion a sort of labyrinth, easily capturing the imagination of anyone who might set foot inside. After a visit from Harry Houdini, the famed magician appropriately dubbed <em>Llanada Villa</em>, “the Mystery House,” a puzzle even he could not solve. Ever since, that was how the Winchester home became known: The Winchester Mystery House.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Folklore</span><br /> Sarah Winchester never kept a journal, and had no manifesto to explain her reasonings for her odd design choices. Due to this, the legend of her and her California home has grown wildly over the years.</p> <p>A common story has been that Sarah Winchester felt haunted by the men who’d died because of her late husband’s Winchester rifle. Advised by a medium, Sarah was convinced to “let the ghosts design her home,” performing regular séances which resulted in the rushed design plans. Others claim the designs were Sarah’s way of hiding from the ghosts, sleeping in a different one of her 40 bedrooms each night.</p> <p>In 2018, the movie <em>Winchester </em>leaned heavily into this version of the story, creating a theatrical setting consisting of malevolent ghosts and a large, haunted house. In reality, the Winchester Mystery House seems to tell the story of a woman who went through a lot.</p> <p>Sarah seemed to love gardening, with greenhouses built into her home. She was innovative, designing a complex communication system for her servants. When a safe was discovered (hidden behind two secure doors and within another larger strongbox) they found that the millionaire widow’s most prized possessions were her husband and daughter’s obituaries, and a lock of her daughter’s hair.</p> <p>The Winchester Mystery House is a uniquely beautiful work of architecture made by an extraordinary figure, and without Sarah to explain her purpose or reasoning for its peculiar features, the home will likely remain a mystery.</p> <p><em>To book your visit, visit the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://winchestermysteryhouse.com/" target="_blank">Winchester Mystery House’s website</a>, and for any spooky mansion inspections, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">find a skilled National Property Inspections expert near you</a></em></p> 1530How to Tell if Your House is Hauntedhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1529/how-to-tell-if-your-house-is-hauntedCleaning Tips,Holiday,Home Inspection,Home Maintenance,Just for Fun,SafetyMon, 09 Oct 2023 18:20:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO TELL IF YOUR HOUSE IS HAUNTED</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> October 9, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=cleaning-tips">Cleaning Tips</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-inspection">Home Inspection</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/fall">fall</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/attic">attic</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/basement">basement</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/walls">walls</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/plumbing">plumbing</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/electrical">electrical</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/appliances">appliances</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/ventilation">ventilation</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a></p> <p>October has officially arrived and, as we march closer and closer to the spookiest day of the year, it’s natural for our minds to focus in on the strange and obscure. If this was your first year in your new home, you may have noticed some of its more interesting quirks or “features.” Some houses seem to groan when the wind hits them just right, others might creak whenever the mood is right. These are just “house noises” that you’re slowly growing accustomed to…right?</p> <p>Many odd occurrences in the home can be explained away with a little bit of investigation, but when attempts at rationality come up short, it can be difficult to brush off the unexplained. As we all know, the Halloween season is best known as one time each year that the barrier between the material world and the spiritual world is its thinnest. In other words, if you have your suspicions that your house just might be haunted, you better figure it out now.</p> <p>To aid you in your investigation, we’ve placed our best paranormal researchers on the job to identify the surefire evidence that proves your house is haunted. Reader beware: only proceed if you want to know the truth about the noise that is coming from your attic.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Truth About Cold Spots</span><br /> It’s a common sight in movies whenever ghosts are near. A shiver is sent down your spine, or a chill in the air suddenly lets you see your breath. Many paranormal enthusiasts believe that these instances are not just Hollywood run amuck, but real evidence of spirits drawing energy from their former homes. If your homes have extreme fluctuations of temperature or unexplained cold pockets within your home, you just might be dealing with a ghost.</p> <p>On the outside chance that ghosts aren’t involved with your home’s heating issues, there are a few home defects that could also influence this issue. Poor insulation, inadequate sealing around doors and windows, and inconsistent filter cleaning can all cause homes to run colder than expected. Keeping a home properly insulated and ventilated is important for anyone wanting to live comfortably, and getting it right can have a major cost-savings benefit as well!</p> <p><em>Read more about how 90% of US homes are under-insulated according to insulation experts over at <a class="color-secondary" href="https://sealed.com/resources/how-does-insulation-save-energy/" target="_blank">Sealed</a>. For more information on ventilation, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/how-to-improve-your-homes-ventilation-and-why-its-important">read on here</a>!</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">When You Smell Something…Fishy</span><br /> The spirits that inhabit your home once had their own lives. They cooked their favorite foods, had their own pets, and they may have had their unique habits such as smoking a cigar, or wearing a particular kind of perfume. When moving into a new home, it may be unnerving to discover that strange odors only attributable to former owners seem to be lingering. In these instances, many supernatural researchers believe the spirits of those that have come before might be reaching out.</p> <p>In situations where phantom smells aren’t a result of spectral activity, there is a chance that lingering smells could be resolved from a deep cleaning of your new home! Carpet, paint, and tile floors are just a few things in homes that can hold onto unwanted scents such as cigarette smoke long after previous owners have moved out. Replacing your carpet, picking a fresh coat of paint, and then tackling any inherited appliances should be a top concern for a clean start.</p> <p><em>Note: Did you know that strange smell could be coming from your water? <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/whats-that-smell-what-different-odors-in-your-water-mean">Here’s how</a> to take care of any odd scents.</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Flickering Lights and Failing Electronics</span><br /> Flickering lights are a tell-tale sign of ghoulish encounters, whether it’s a spectral prankster at work or the result of a spirit’s presence drawing from a home’s electrical systems. EMF Meters are a standard tool used by ghost hunters and other paranormal investigators to detect any abnormal electromagnetic activity within an area, and many believe that these tools can be used for direct communication with paranormal presences.</p> <p>If you’re looking for any alternative answers to electrical issues, flickering lights can also be caused by things like wire corrosion or loose/poor connections. Electrical issues can be serious fire hazards and should be addressed by a licensed electrician as soon as possible. To get started, an infrared inspection from a licensed home inspector can uncover overheated and overloaded outlets and appliances with ease.</p> <p><em>Learn more about some of <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Inspection-Services/Specialty-Services">NPI’s specialty inspection services here</a>!</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Creaks, Groans, and Noises in the Night</span><br /> When sharing space with ghosts, homeowners would probably prefer their ghost to be more of a Casper the friendly ghost-type, rather than a Beetlejuice-Beetlejuice-variety. This is why those first few nights in a new home can be particularly unnerving if unexpected noises start coming from the walls, the basement, or the attic. Are those noises just “the house settling,” or did that creak seem a bit too close to a groan for comfort?</p> <p>Outside from ghouls or goblins, there are many other things that can cause a home to make distracting noises. Materials in homes naturally bloat and compress throughout the year as the weather changes, which can all cause harmless creaking and grumbling. Hissing or humming electrical outlets or piping could mean any number of problems, and suspect gas leaks should be addressed as soon as possible.</p> <p><em>If you haven’t located your water and gas shut-off valves yet, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/maintenance-minutes-how-to-locate-your-valve-shutoffs">now is the time to find them</a>. Leaks can cause compiling damage if not resolved quickly, so it’s important for homeowners to familiarize themselves with their home systems before an emergency occurs.</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">You Can’t Shake the Feeling You’re Being Watched</span><br /> Finally, if after “debunking” what seemed to be a former mountain of evidence that your home is haunted still leaves you feeling unsettled, don’t discount that feeling of being watched. As we all know, ghosts have this frustrating tendency to remain imperceptible to the naked eye. Due to this fact many people claim to notice shadows or movement out of the corner of their eye on occasion, and in other instances they might experience a pesky, disquieting sensation when looking into the darker corners of their home.</p> <p>The truth is that if you feel like you’re being watched, you probably are! Though, it might not be exactly what you were expecting during the Halloween season. Many homes are haunted by rats, bats, spiders, and termites, which often go unnoticed by homeowners until long after inflicting serious damage to many of a house’s key systems. While there are many strategies that homeowners can employ to keep their homes free from <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/how-to-avoid-unwelcome-household-pests-before-they-move-in">unwanted guests</a>, it may be wise to have a trusted pest control professional in mind when things get out of hand.</p> <p> </p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Do You Suspect that Your Home Might be Haunted?</span><br /> Rather than contacting your local vicar, consider starting with a <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">home inspection</a> to figure out what makes your house tick!</p> 1529How to Host a Memorable Backyard Barbecuehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1499/how-to-host-a-memorable-backyard-barbecueHoliday,Just for Fun,SafetyMon, 29 May 2023 19:38:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HOW TO HOST A MEMORABLE BACKYARD BARBECUE</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> May 29, 2023 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just For Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/summer">summer</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/pets">pets</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/kids">kids</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a></p> <p>Summertime brings a special kind of excitement and plenty of opportunities to spend time with loved ones. The backyard barbecue is a classic way to spend a hot evening. Although everyone wants to throw a cookout for the ages, it’s important to take the right precautions beforehand to make sure your barbecue is memorable in all the right ways.</p> <p>Seamless and safe barbecues are all about preparation and safety. So for your next backyard bash or summer shindig, consider these tips to take it to the next level.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Practice Safe Grilling</span><br /> The grill master is a role that’s not to be taken lightly. Not only is the grill master responsible for satisfying everyone at the party, but any negligence on their part can lead to major damage or potential injury. Grilling spaces should always be carefully selected and at a minimum, 10 feet away from any structures to avoid dangerous stray embers. This may go without saying, but never grill inside! Any overhead coverings can also cause ventilation problems, and unstable bases can lead to grills tipping over.</p> <p>Ideally, grills should be set up with plenty of space, separate from toppings stations, side tables, and dessert spreads. The final and most important safety note that every master chef should take to heart is also the most simple: never leave the grill unsupervised! Between pets, wildlife, and kids that are all likely to add their own brand of chaos to a barbecue, responsible cooks know that no time frame is too short for something to go wrong.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Don’t Be Afraid to Mix It Up</span><br /> Responsible and safe practices set the foundation for a successful barbecue, but it will be the areas where you break from the normal routine that will make the occasion stand out. Hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken are some staples that shouldn’t be overlooked, but consider adding a few unique foods into the mix.</p> <p>To name just a few out-of-the-box options, here are some additional grillable items that could steal the show at your next barbecue:</p> <ul> <li>Pork Chops</li> <li>Asparagus</li> <li>Cauliflower</li> <li>Cabbage</li> <li>Watermelon</li> </ul> <p>After adding these new entrees into your repertoire, it’s important to consider the power of the side. It seems that many party hosts already feel less restricted when it comes to experimenting with sides. Enlisting the help of guests to cover all the bases with sides and desserts can allow for even more opportunities to offer additional variety.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Always Be Prepared With a Back-up Plan</span><br /> Planning parties successfully involves learning how to adapt when things go wrong. As the host, it is your job to not only plan out your barbecue, but also think through what to do if the weather takes a turn for the worse, if your space becomes unavailable, or if the grill doesn’t work.</p> <p>Set up an area indoors that could handle the expected party guests in a pinch, and consider cooking an entree or two in advance for additional flexibility. Although never ideal, pivoting to instead order a pizza and entertain guests in your living room can have all the necessary ingredients for a memorable event. Ultimately, barbecues and cookouts are excuses to spend time with friends and family. Don’t get hung up on making everything perfect, and enjoy the day!</p> <p><em>Although your barbecue can survive a few surprises, homeowners should never be surprised when it comes to major home maintenance projects! <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Contact</a> your local NPI inspector to arrange a home maintenance inspection today, and never get caught unaware of the condition of your home.</em></p> 1499Tips to Prolong the Life of Your Roof (and Your Home)https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1436/tips-to-prolong-the-life-of-your-roof-and-your-homeDIY,Holiday,Home MaintenanceMon, 19 Dec 2022 15:08:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">TIPS TO PROLONG THE LIFE OF YOUR ROOF (AND YOUR HOME)</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> December 19, 2022 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-Maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/roof">roof</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-exterior">home exterior</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a></p> <p>Due to rising concerns surrounding roof integrity during this time of the year, we thought it would be best to review some basic roof maintenance tasks that every homeowner should incorporate into their home maintenance routines. For much of North America, winter brings serious additional stress onto roofs as snow builds. This next year, resolve to provide proper roof care by following these essential tips.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Protect Your Shingles </span><br /> The shingles are the attribute that most people first think of when picturing their roofs. Healthy, well-maintained shingles can go a long way to transform the overall attractiveness of a home, but many homeowners do not realize the perils their shingles face.</p> <p>Each season presents its own hazards that can lead to shingle damage. From Summer heat that can cause crackling, curling, and tearing, to degradation from moisture in Winter snows or during thunderstorms, shingles go through the ringer throughout the year.</p> <p>Protecting shingles is about more than just appearances, though, as they put in major work protecting homes from the elements. If a roof’s shingles have suffered through considerable wear-and-tear, homes are much more susceptible to leaks and other forms of water damage.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Watch For Water Damage </span><br /> Homeowners should regularly monitor their roofs in search for any signs of leaks, but even after a professional exterior consultation, there can still be water damage due to roof leaks in a home. Check attics for leaks and things like musty odors or spotting on walls and ceilings to get proactive about protecting against water damage.</p> <p>Missing signs that point towards a compromised roof can lead to major issues like runoff problems, damage to landscape, and even foundational damage. If there is any concern about a roof’s structural integrity, schedule a home inspection to begin addressing the issue.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Fight Off Moss, Algae, And Mold </span><br /> Another byproduct to pooling water and moisture collection on roofs is the buildup of things like moss, algae, lichen, and mold. In many ways, this is a compounding issue, as these growths can cause damage and decay to shingles as well as the roof’s underriding structure. Again, without strong shingles to protect roofs from the elements, more moisture can enter the home, leading to mounting damage.</p> <p>Homeowners can tackle this issue by cleaning their shingles during warmer months. Utilizing a mixture of liquid chlorine bleach, water, and a power washer, moss buildup can be killed before it becomes too much of a problem. As a note, remember to strategically redirect the runoff so that greenery isn’t damaged!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Trim Your Trees And Greenery </span><br /> Speaking of landscaping, yet another potential hazard to a healthy roof (and a healthy home) are the trees, shrubs, flowers, and bushes that surround it. Low-hanging limbs can knock against roofs during storms or heavy winds, and they can potentially break off, leading to a dangerous impact. In addition, twigs and leaves are known to build up in gutters, creating major drainage issues. Make sure any overreaching limbs are trimmed back and managed before they become a problem.</p> <p>Overgrown bushes and flowers can also cause issues with gutter systems as they attempt to drain rainwater, potentially leading to diversions into a home’s foundation. Just as with trees, make sure smaller plants are similarly trimmed and tended to protect your home.</p> <p>Start with these simple steps and extend your roof’s life and make your roof as safe as possible.</p> <p><em>National Property Inspections is home to experienced professionals, trained to identify potential hazards in your house. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Schedule a home maintenance inspection today</a> with an expert in your area.</em></p> 1436Pet-Proofing Your Home for the Holidayshttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1433/pet-proofing-your-home-for-the-holidaysHoliday,Just for Fun,SafetyMon, 12 Dec 2022 18:11:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">PET-PROOFING YOUR HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> December 12, 2022 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=Safety">Safety</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/winter">winter</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/pets">pets</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a></p> <p>The holiday season marks a unique time of the year. Storefronts light up with Christmas cheer and nostalgic music fills the air as we all rush off to find that perfect gift. Unfortunately, pet owners can often get left behind in the festivities. Furry friends work to tear homes apart while simultaneously endangering themselves in the new stimulating surroundings. Too often, pet owners choose to opt out of holiday decorations rather than deal with rambunctious cats or dogs. This season, here are a few options to consider reentering the holiday with pet-safe decorations.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Secure The Right Tree </span><br /> Central to any Christmas-celebrating home is the Christmas Tree. There are fabulous variations on the tradition, and oftentimes families have their own preferred rituals involving how and when to decorate their tree. Adding a cat or dog into the picture can throw a considerable wrench into the process, however, as habits need to be adjusted in the best interest of protecting decorations, and keeping pets safe.</p> <p>Although there is some debate on which type of tree presents the fewest hazards, artificial trees ultimately introduce fewer toxins into the household. Still, artificial trees can drop plastic pieces that are harmful if ingested. For the safest experience, select an artificial tree, and pay close attention to any shedding, cleaning up any small scraps as they fall off.</p> <p>Hazards that live trees bring center primarily around the pine needles that it sheds. If your dog or cat steps on one of these easily missed needles, they can cause quite a bit of pain and discomfort. If ingested, however, the toxins and damage can be even worse. With all trees, but especially with live trees, utilize strategic barriers and then vacuum thoroughly and often.</p> <p>For advice on how to select the best live tree this season, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/correctly-choosing-a-live-christmas-tree">check out our previous article</a> covering the topic!</p> <p>There are countless tips to keep a tree even with the most destructively curious pets. Consider tying the tree to the ceiling or other furniture for extra support and to avoid any cataclysmic falls. Additionally, using attention deterrents like aluminum sheets or tape under the tree for a period can dissuade some adventurous pets, and cats are known to dislike the scent of citrus. Strategic sprays can surprisingly be all that’s needed to maintain an orderly living space during this holiday season.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Avoid Breakable Hazards </span><br /> From ornaments to snow globes, the holidays seem to come with plenty of opportunities for pets to break something valuable. In general, keeping tree ornaments out of reach is usually not enough to avoid breakage. Be sure to secure any ornament to trees with non-metal fasteners. Cats and dogs are likely to jump and shake trees, but if ornaments are firmly attached, destructive drops can be avoided. On the occasion that an ornament does fall, metal hooks can be especially damaging when chewed on or eaten, so it’s best to avoid them altogether.</p> <p>Snow globes are a beautiful holiday decoration that present a fair number of hazards to pets outside of potentially harmful glass shards. Snow globes also contain antifreeze, which is fatal to cats. Whether they are out of reach or out of the picture completely, be wary of snow globes this winter.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Select Safe Indoor Plants </span><br /> Greenery is a common addition to households during the holiday season, but when not selecting artificial options, it’s important not to bring in plants that could present any health risks. Some popular Christmas-time plants that are hazardous to cats include Amaryllis, Cyclamen, and particularly Lilies, which present a fatal risk. Holly, ivy, yew, and Christmas roses also contain toxins that can present health risks to pets.</p> <p>For pet-safe greenery, consider choosing Christmas cactus, white orchids, or autumn olives. In addition, poinsettias have been considered toxic in the past, but are actually only mildly toxic and generally a recommended option for pet owners.</p> <p>Follow these guidelines to celebrate the holidays with your pets safely! Pets can certainly be a handful at times, but for many they are as much a part of the family as anyone. Follow these tips, and celebrate the New Year the right way.</p> <p><em>Speaking of safety, the best way to gain peace of mind for your home is with your annual home maintenance inspection.<a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Find a home inspection professional in your area</a> with National Property Inspections, and schedule your appointment today! </em></p> 1433Correctly Choosing a Live Christmas Treehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1430/correctly-choosing-a-live-christmas-treeDIY,Holiday,Home Decor,Just for FunMon, 05 Dec 2022 18:45:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">CORRECTLY CHOOSING A LIVE CHRISTMAS TREE</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> December 5, 2022 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/winter">winter</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a></p> <p>Despite artificial trees being a common option for most people, live trees are still very popular. Around 30 million live trees are sold each year at tree farms. They’re a nice touch for those that want a more authentic holiday feel. If you’ve been thinking about picking out a live tree for your celebration, here’s what you need to know to find the right one.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Pick Out a Spot at Home</span><br /> Before you head to the lot to chop down your tree, be certain you can actually get it in your home first. While movies like Christmas Vacation and Elf make fun of picking out a comically large Tannenbaum, in reality they can be a headache. You may end up having to drastically trim it down and be left with a pile of twigs as opposed to a pristine pine. Pick out where you want to place your new tree, and measure the area on the floor and the distance between the floor and ceiling. You’ll also want to be sure you have an adequate stand for the tree to keep it from tipping over. <em>(To prevent your tree from going up in a blaze of glory, keep it away from heating vents and of course fireplaces and heaters.)</em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Research the Tree You Want </span><br /> Another good step to complete before you purchase a tree is to research the different kinds. Different species will grow in different locations, so not every one will be available to you. Cypresses, pines, firs, and spruces are typically the most common types. Each has its own lifespan, care needs, and even smell or coloring. Ask the attendant helping you to provide more information on the species they have.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Check the Freshness </span><br /> Most trees can last up to a month when taken care of properly. However, your tree needs to be as fresh as possible when you buy it so you won’t have to take it to the curb early. When checking it over, lightly bend the needles. A fir that’s fresh will have needles that snap whereas pines shouldn’t. Look at the ground around the tree and see if there’s a lot of needles. A shake test will also let you know freshness, as only a small amount of needles should fall off. Color is another good indicator of the tree’s age, and in this instance, it’s best to go for one as green as possible.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Check for Animals </span><br /> To avoid the “wily squirrel in the tree fiasco,” double-check you won’t be taking any critters back home with you. Squirrels, birds, and some other small animals tend to make themselves at home in trees. Look for signs of a nest further back in the branches. If you do spot one, see if you can find any fresh signs of life. A tree that’s occupied is better left alone and reported to the lot staff.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Cut it to Last </span><br /> Making the right cut is crucial to your tree lasting more than a few days. For starters, use a saw designed for the tree so you don’t damage the trunk. Cut up an inch or so from the ground. This will allow the tree to properly re-sprout on the end and be able to take water. Don’t let the tree timber over, as it can cause the bark to splinter and tear off. After you’ve cut it, take it home as soon as possible to keep the sap from scabbing over the end and hindering re-sprouting.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Give Your Tree Back </span><br /> When you’re done with your tree for the holidays, you can re-gift it. Some recycling programs use the trees for mulch or other biodegradable purposes. Animal sanctuaries or zoos can also use the trees as food. You can still keep the giving spirit going!</p> <p><em>For help with all your home inspection needs, <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">contact National Property Inspections today</a>.</em></p> 14306 Great Gifts For First-Time Homeownershttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1425/6-great-gifts-for-first-time-homeownersHoliday,Home DecorMon, 28 Nov 2022 17:27:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">6 GREAT GIFTS FOR FIRST-TIME HOMEOWNERS</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> November 28, 2022 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/winter">winter</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/first-time-homeowner">first-time homeowner</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/new-homeowner">new homeowner</a></p> <p>Now that Thanksgiving is firmly in the rearview mirror, season’s greetings! Happy holidays! Merry Christmas! It’s the season of giving, and for your family or friends that have gifted themselves their first homes, now is the perfect time to get them something to help them in their home-owning journey. Becoming a rookie homeowner can be difficult, so congratulate your loved ones with one of these essential housewarming gifts (that they will absolutely thank you for).</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Tool “Starter” Kit</span><br /> Just because someone is a first-time homeowner, does not necessarily mean they aren’t “handy.” However, until someone is forced to buy a tool set for regular repairs and maintenance, they usually won’t. Rather than continuing to rely on a friend or family member to borrow tools as the need arises, any new homeowner in your life will greatly appreciate a basic tool starter kit or drill set of their own. In comparison to living in an apartment, home ownership naturally leads to much more personal responsibility to make repairs. While other gifts might be more flashy, nothing will be more appreciated in the long run than a simple tool set.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Yard Gear</span><br /> While we are on the subject of basic tools and maintenance, a first-time homeowner who doesn’t have indoor tools yet, they are even less likely to have the necessary supplies for yard work. Anything from basic supplies like shovels, to larger investments like lawn mowers, yard gear is an extensive category that often can be neglected when it comes to housewarming gifts. Again, these basic tools will be greatly appreciated in the long run, so don’t overlook something like a high quality rake for a housewarming gift. As a last note for tools, there’s nothing wrong with keeping things general with something like a Home Depot gift card. Resorting to gift cards can feel like giving up, but along with homeownership, home improvement projects are never far behind.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Organizers (Tools, Lids, Under-the-Sink Bins, and More)</span><br /> With more space, first-time homeowners will quickly accumulate things. As those things start to pile up, pretty soon those things are buried under other things until nothing is accessible and storage becomes an intimidating mess. Organization is a constant fight, but you can help them win their battle before things get out of hand. Sorting containers for under the sink, organizers for small tool items like screws and nails, and holders for food container lids save a surprising amount of rummaging time and will surely cut down on unneeded frustration.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Lightbulbs and Air Filters</span><br /> One eye-opening realization in store for any first-time homeowner is the amount of regular maintenance that comes with keeping a house in its best condition. With this in mind, things like extra light bulbs are constantly overlooked by new homeowners. In addition, HVAC companies generally recommend changing air filters every 90 days. By gifting these simple replacement items, these gifts will help your greenhorn homeowners get stocked up on supplies they will definitely use in the future.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Home Maintenance Guide</span><br /> Speaking of home maintenance, keeping to a regular maintenance routine will help home systems run better and for longer. Adding some type of home maintenance schedule to a housewarming gift can go a long way towards keeping your first-timers organized and informed with seasonal checklists. Check out our Home Maintenance Guide PDF to start your own regular home maintenance routine, and feel free to add it to any housewarming gift!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Thumbtack Subscription</span><br /> Lastly, while new homeowners may be excited to jump into their own DIY home improvement projects right away, some projects are likely to be out of their comfort zone. Thumbtack is an excellent company that offers an expansive catalog of professionally-vetted home improvement specialists equipped to aid in any ambitious undertaking. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.thumbtack.com/" target="_blank">Gift a subscription to their service here</a> to give your first-time homeowner friends confidence on any upcoming home improvement endeavors.</p> <p>What are your signature housewarming gifts for first-time homeowners? Did we miss any essentials? Please let us know!</p> <p><em>Give yourself the gifts of security and peace of mind with a home maintenance inspection. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Schedule your visit today</a> with National Property Inspections!</em></p> 1425Haunted Places Series: Gibraltar Point Lighthousehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1411/haunted-places-series-gibraltar-point-lighthouseHoliday,Just for FunMon, 17 Oct 2022 14:44:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HAUNTED PLACES SERIES: GIBRALTAR POINT LIGHTHOUSE</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> October 17, 2022 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/fall">fall</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/haunted-places-series">Haunted Places Series</a></p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Location:</span> Toronto, Ontario, Canada<br /> <span class="emphasis-primary">Architectural Style:</span> Hexagonal Limestone<br /> <span class="emphasis-primary">Built:</span> 1808</p> <p>With each passing week, we take another trip across North America to some of the most intriguing (and possibly haunted) structures standing today. This week features a last vestige of war and a mysterious disappearance. On the banks of Lake Ontario, we’re visiting Toronto’s own Gibraltar Point Lighthouse!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">History</span><br /> As commissioned in 1803, the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse was one of three Lighthouses erected with the intention to bolster the town of York’s defenses while tensions remained uneasy between northern British holdings and the newly established United States.</p> <p>Gibraltar Point was a peninsula named after the famous, strategic territory overseeing the strait between Spain and Morocco. The peninsula in Lake Ontario was thought to serve a similar purpose as a powerful fortifying point, intended to protect traveling British vessels. By 1808, the construction was complete and the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse was brought fully into service.</p> <p>Quickly, the lighthouse saw considerable action, standing sentinel during the War of 1812 and standing as direct witness to 1813’s Battle of York. Over its lifetime, the lighthouse watched York become the city of Toronto, and the peninsula it stood on transformed into the Toronto Islands. Today, the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse is the oldest standing lighthouse on the Great Lakes.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">John Radelmüller</span><br /> While being a storied landmark of the Toronto area, the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse has also had early encounters with the macabre. The very first lighthouse keeper at Gibraltar Point was a German immigrant by the name of John Radelmüller. Serving from 1809 to 1815, Radelmüller would not see the end of the war, as he mysteriously disappeared on January 2 of 1815.</p> <p>Speculation about what may have happened to Herr Radelmüller seems nearly endless, but there is one narrative that has become most prominent. As the story goes, Radelmüller was an amateur distiller back in Germany. Bringing this knowledge to the Americas, Radelmüller became rather popular among the sailors and soldiers in the area.</p> <p>One night upon visiting the lighthouse, a few soldiers were becoming rowdy after a few too many drinks. When Radelmüller threatened to cut them off for the night, things turned violent. Outnumbered, Radelmüller was beaten and eventually stabbed by the end of a bayonet, resulting in his death.</p> <p>To hide their crime, it is believed that the soldiers buried the lighthouse keeper’s body in pieces around the lands surrounding the lighthouse before making their escape.</p> <p>The validity of this tale is hard to determine, but there have been stories of subsequent lighthouse keepers discovering bones hidden in crawl spaces and buried around the island. By the time the lighthouse was formally decommissioned in 1957, the tales surrounding that night have made the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse a staple in Toronto’s local lore.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Today</span><br /> As urban legends claim, the lighthouse is most definitely haunted today, the ghost of its first keeper still loyally serving in the defense of York. Although it is closed to the public throughout the year, people are free to visit the lighthouse by foot or along <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.viator.com/Toronto-attractions/Gibraltar-Point-Lighthouse/d623-a17393" target="_blank">a bike tour of the Toronto Islands</a>. A testament to the city’s storied history, the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse is a beautiful monument that tourists should not miss out on!</p> <p><em>Is your roof or foundation a horror? <a href="https://www.npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Schedule your next home or commercial property inspection</a> with National Property Inspections. Our professional inspectors have seen it all!</em></p> 1411Haunted Places Series: House of the Seven Gableshttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1408/haunted-places-series-house-of-the-seven-gablesHoliday,Just for FunMon, 10 Oct 2022 17:43:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HAUNTED PLACES SERIES: HOUSE OF THE SEVEN GABLES</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> October 10, 2022 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/fall">fall</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/haunted-places-series">Haunted Places Series</a></p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Location:</span> Salem, Massachusetts<br /> <span class="emphasis-primary">Architectural Style:</span> Colonial, Georgian<br /> <span class="emphasis-primary">Built:</span> 1668</p> <p>For our next entry in this year’s Haunted Places Series, get ready for falling leaves, a legendary author, and a set of infamous trials. This week, we visit the historic House of the Seven Gables.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Background</span><br /> In the height of Puritan New England, Captain John Turner I constructed a home for his family on the coast of Massachusetts Bay. This simple two-story, two-room home circled a tall chimney in its first iteration and would expand considerably over the years. Features would be added, removed, and added back again to match various styles over the decades, but its famed “seven gables” would become the home’s most iconic feature.</p> <p>From the Turner family’s hands, the property would be sold to another family of wealthy sailors in the Ingersoll family by 1782. From this, the home gained the colloquial name of the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion. However, it was during this time that Nathaniel Hawthorne, a relative of the Ingersolls, would begin to visit in order to spend time with his cousin Susannah Ingersoll. Though the historic home had already established itself within Salem’s history, it was this association that won the home its fame.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Haunted Places/7 Gables/seven-gables.jpg?ver=mKk_SUvlvF7hrWzOeXi9kg%3d%3d" width="100%" /><br /> <em>Photo by <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/mastatelibrary/" target="_blank">State Library of Massachusetts</a>, licensed under <a class="color-secondary" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY-NC 2.0</a></em></p> <p>As a boy, Nathaniel injured his leg and was restricted to the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion for two years. Susannah regaled her cousin with the home’s history during this time, as well as the history of their family and the town of Salem. These visits would prove to be of considerable significance to Nathaniel, as he would go on to write a novel based on the stories he’d heard. Nathaniel called this book, The House of the Seven Gables, as a tribute to his cousin’s descriptions of the house from when she was growing up. It has been due to the popularity of Hawthorne’s book that the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion came to be better known as The House of the Seven Gables.</p> <p>In 1908, the home would pass on to Caroline Osgood Emmerton, a wealthy philanthropist in the region. Emmerton renovated the home into a museum and settlement home, making alterations inspired by Hawthorne’s novel and bringing the overall look back in line with a more authentic colonial style. Capitalizing on the novel’s plot, it was actually during this time that a well was added to the garden as well as a “secret staircase” leading from behind the chimney to the attic. Both additions were installed so that incoming tourists would find a location more in line with the novel, although they were not original features to the building.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Nathaniel Hawthorne & John Hathorne</span><br /> Susannah’s stories about the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion and the town of Salem captivated a young Nathaniel Hawthorne, although not always in a positive way. Nathaniel had heard stories of the Salem Witch Trials, but was particularly struck to learn the story of his great-grandfather, John Hathorne’s, direct role in the event.</p> <p>John Hathorne presided over the infamous trials as one of the chief judges, which led to 19 executions based on flimsy claims of witchcraft. Seeing this act as a terrible injustice and a stain on his family’s name, it was for this reason that Nathaniel decided to add a “w” to his surname, in hopes to separate himself from John Hathorne. It seemed that this blemish still marked Nathaniel, at least in his mind, as his novel went on to condemn a fictional version of his ancestor in the character Judge Pyncheon.</p> <p>In the novel, Pyncheon took advantage of hysteria in the community of Salem, and falsely accused a neighbor of practicing witchcraft in order to take his land for himself. As the falsely accused neighbor was executed, he placed a curse on the Pyncheon family, which sets up the events of the novel.</p> <p>Clearly, Nathaniel was similarly troubled by what his ancestor had done, and felt that his actions left an almost supernatural inheritance he couldn’t rid himself of. As he writes in the prologue of <em>The Scarlet Letter</em>:</p> <div class="testimonial testimonial-primary"> <blockquote> <p>He [Judge Hathorne] made himself so conspicuous in the martyrdom of the witches, that their blood may fairly be said to have left a stain upon him…I know not whether these ancestors of mine bethought themselves to repent, and ask pardon of heaven for their cruelties…At all events, I, the present writer, as their representative, hereby take shame upon myself for their sakes, and pray that any curse incurred by them...may be now and henceforth removed.</p> </blockquote> </div> <p>Whether a curse was actually waylaid towards Judge Hathorne during the trials is unknown, but some believe these malevolent forces have remained at the House of the Seven Gables.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Ghost Stories</span><br /> Today, the House of the Seven Gables is open for tours with its focus on historical Puritan life, Nathaniel Hawthorne’s book, and “social uplifting” through citizenship classes and other outreach efforts for immigrant communities (causes championed by Caroline Emmerton.) Tour guides firmly deny the existence of any ghost or ghoul on the premises, though this has not stopped the rumors from circulating over the years.</p> <p>Curious events consistent with the most frequent haunts have been reported. Visitors claim to see “shadow people” and hear ominous murmuring (especially late at night). More reference a general strange atmosphere that surrounds the property grounds. Those more familiar with the house’s history claim that two recurring spirits call the House of the Seven Gables their home.</p> <p>First, a small boy who loves to play in the attic has been said to make noises during tours or peek out from windows on the upper floors. On at least one occasion, the boy was seen scrambling up the secret staircase, only to vanish after being trailed up to the attic. Some claim with absolute certainty that this boy is Julian, the son of Nathaniel Hawthorne, although there isn’t any record of him even visiting the home in his lifetime.</p> <p>The other most common specter sighting has been attributed to Susannah Ingersoll herself, who is said to roam the halls of her former home. Guests claim to see a woman in white peeking down through the windows, watching as they enter through the grounds’ gardens.</p> <p>Whether the city’s history simply inclines visitors into a supernaturally expectant mood or something otherworldly truly walks the halls of the House of the Seven Gables, perhaps the only way to know for sure is to <a class="color-secondary" href="https://7gables.org/tickets/october-guided-tour/" target="_blank">book your visit for yourself</a>!</p> <p><em>Cover Photo by <a class="color-secondary" href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:House_of_Seven_Gables_-_Salem,_MA_2.jpg" target="_blank">Upstateherd</a>, licensed under <a class="color-secondary" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></em></p> 1408Haunted Places Series: Ohio State Reformatoryhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1405/haunted-places-series-ohio-state-reformatoryHoliday,Just for FunMon, 03 Oct 2022 19:16:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HAUNTED PLACES SERIES: OHIO STATE REFORMATORY</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> October 3, 2022 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/fall">fall</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/haunted-places-series">Haunted Places Series</a></p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Location:</span> Mansfield, Ohio<br /> <span class="emphasis-primary">Architectural Style:</span> Romanesque Revival<br /> <span class="emphasis-primary">Built:</span> 1886–1910</p> <p>There’s an eerie chill in the air and the souls of the restless are stirring. This can only mean one thing . . . the return of our haunted place series! Every year, we break from our usual content to visit some of the strangest, most unsettling locales of the U.S. and Canada in celebration of the spooky season. This year, our first edition was a clear lock: the Ohio State Reformatory!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Reformatory </span><br /> Founded as a holding for intermediate first-time offenders, the Ohio State Reformatory, also known as the Mansfield Reformatory, was designed with rehabilitation in mind. Even today, its beautiful arches and bright brick exterior make this defunct prison appear more like a mansion or a castle. These design choices were purposeful, intended to inspire all who enter its halls.</p> <p>In this setting, inmates would learn practical trades (such as engineering or plumbing) and invest into skills meant to turn their lives around. This system worked remarkably in those initial years. Compared to other reformatory facilities, convicts who finished serving their sentences at Mansfield were considerably less likely to become repeat offenders. In fact, Mansfield boasted one of the lowest re-sentencing rates in the country, as the former cons took advantage of their second chances in life. Unfortunately, this system and its successes would not last.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Penitentiary </span><br /> Due to the ballooning prisoner population in the United States, the Ohio State Reformatory’s idyllic rehabilitation structure could not continue. Its funding was cut, and the facility made its transition into a maximum-security prison – a function it was never intended for. In this new iteration, inmates were no longer relatively harmless first-time offenders. Violent, unpredictable repeat offenders were added to the mix, and with them came a multitude of tragedies.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Haunted Places/Ohio Reformatory/Ohio_State_Reformatory-10.jpg?ver=olCbrRCKegJayDzpNKwz_A%3d%3d" width="100%" /><br /> <em>Photo by <a class="color-secondary" href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ohio_State_Reformatory-10.jpg" target="_blank">Marianodemiguel</a>, licensed under <a class="color-secondary" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></em></p> <p>Frequent riots and limited space forced unheard- of conditions where single occupancy solitary confinement cells were shared by six men at a time. Fires broke out, guards were killed, and men took their own lives as the conditions at Mansfield quickly declined. This all led to a lawsuit coordinated by former inmates aimed at the state of Ohio. In the end, the facility was closed by a court order in 1990.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Classic </span><br /> Today, the Ohio State Reformatory has been preserved as a historical site and, if you thought the location looked familiar, it’s likely because of its prominent use on the silver screen. This breathtaking building was featured in films like Tango and Cash, Air Force One, and perhaps most memorably, Frank Darabont’s The Shawshank Redemption. Fans can tour the site today through the lens of this iconic film, visiting the courtyard and cells and learning about the creation of the Oscar-nominated masterwork.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Paranormal </span><br /> Over one hundred years of varied history has been concentrated into one dynamic structure. With that history, it comes as little surprise that the Ohio State Reformatory is considered one of the most haunted locations in America. Even among the inmates, there were rumors of ghostly encounters. Complaints were recorded of invisible hands grasping at men while they were in their cells at night, along with unsettling noises keeping them awake. Tour guides, likewise, attest to hearing odd noises frequently and even spotting shadowy figures. Visitors report similar experiences, hearing movement and mumbling in empty cells or down vacant corridors, while others even claim being pushed over railings.</p> <p>The Ohio State Reformatory has a complex history. Although mired with its own dark periods, it has rich stories to tell, and the location is meticulously preserved. Book your tour today, whether you are <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.mrps.org/tours" target="_blank">a film superfan or a historian</a>, or you want <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.mrps.org/paranormal" target="_blank">a chance to experience the paranormal</a> for yourself!</p> <p><em>Finding the perfect inspector doesn’t have to be a nightmare! <a href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Let National Property Inspections find the perfect match</a> for your needs and schedule your inspection today!</em></p> 1405Planning a Romantic At-Home Valentine’s Day Datehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1344/planning-a-romantic-at-home-valentines-day-dateHoliday,Just for FunMon, 07 Feb 2022 14:48:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">PLANNING A ROMANTIC AT-HOME VALENTINE’S DAY DATE</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> February 7, 2022 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=Holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/winter">winter</a></p> <p>Valentine’s Day is coming soon, and you may be feeling the pressure to put on the perfect evening for your special someone. However, that perfect evening can be a mess if you fail to snag dinner reservations in time or you’re stressing about outdoing yourself from last year. If you want to save yourself from scrambling around at the last minute and still give a gift from the heart, here’s how you can have the perfect date night without ever leaving your home!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Put on your chef’s hat and apron. </span><br /> There’s nothing quite like a full heart (and stomach) that comes from a delicious home-cooked meal. Recreate a meal from one of your favorite restaurants, or try out something new. You definitely don’t have to be the most skilled cook either. You might be surprised at how fun it can be to sharpen your culinary skills and make a meal for the person you love.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Channel your inner Bob Ross. </span><br /> From showcasing your artistry in the kitchen to showing it on the canvas, go ahead and break out the paint brushes and easels. There are tons of tutorials on YouTube that you can follow to create a masterpiece. You can do as many as you want and show off your finished gallery to your friends and family as well.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Make a cozy movie marathon. </span><br /> A classic date night, cuddling up and putting on your favorite movie or TV show is both fun and relaxing. Use some blankets and pillows to make a comfy home theater along with some string lights to get the full experience. Don’t forget to buy your favorite snacks, pour a drink, and pop some fresh popcorn!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Set up a fun game night. </span><br /> For hours of entertainment and a dash of nostalgia, a board game is the perfect match. Pick some of your favorites or a few new ones to try out and pair them with your favorite drink for lots of laughs. Of course for something more modern, virtual trivia or other video games are just as enjoyable.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Save your memories in a scrapbook. </span><br /> It’s always great to look back and reminisce on certain memories. Whether it’s a trip you took or your first date, your story together is one of a kind. Gather your photos or keepsakes you’ve collected and put them together in your own scrapbook. Decorate it however you want and write notes about your fondest times. In no time at all, you’ll have a special memento to detail your journey!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Have a PowerPoint party. </span><br /> A recent trend spurred by the hit social media app TikTok, presentation parties aren’t your typical homework assignment. You can choose a topic about anything from your favorite qualities about each other to 10 famous people you look like. The more outlandish the subject, the better for a combination of weirdness and hilarity.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Make a theme for your date night. </span><br /> To tie your whole night together, choose a theme to follow. It can be reminiscent of your first night together, or you can choose a destination that you’ve both always wanted to go to. Put up decorations, play music and coordinate your meals and activities for an immersive experience.</p> <p>Whatever you choose for your night in, it’s sure to be one you won’t soon forget!</p> <p> </p> <p><em><a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.npiweb.com/Find-an-inspector">Find your local inspector today</a> to schedule a full inspection of your home. NPI inspectors have the training, knowledge and expertise to document the condition of all your home’s major systems.</em></p> 134410 Easy Ways to Create a Festive Homehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1326/10-easy-ways-to-create-a-festive-homeDIY,Holiday,Home DecorMon, 13 Dec 2021 17:29:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">10 EASY WAYS TO CREATE A FESTIVE HOME</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> December 13, 2021 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=diy">DIY</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/winter">winter</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a></p> <p>We all love decorating our homes for the holiday season. Achieving that Hallmark movie look gets us into the spirit and ready to celebrate. However, it can be easy to go overboard and get overwhelmed with your holiday decor. Here are some easy tips you can use to get a festive feel and avoid getting stressed out.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Don’t Overload Your Tree </span><br /> Decking out your tree with tinsel and ornaments can really make it pop, but too much can make it look like a whirlwind of trimmings. This year, remember to keep your arrangement simple. Only use your favorite ornaments instead of jampacking every single one onto the branches. You can also create some handmade pieces by tying sticks of cinnamon together with ribbon. It’s something different and it’ll give off a great smelling holiday aroma!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Play Some Background Music </span><br /> The right music will really bring that holiday magic to life. As you go about getting your home ready, turn on your favorite festive playlist. If you’re hosting guests, having a little background music will eliminate awkward silences. You can also ask for suggestions and play musical games like “Guess That Song” or karaoke!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Display Your Holiday Cards </span><br /> Getting greeting cards and photos from family and friends reminds us what the season is about. Showcase them by creating a thoughtful display. You can either hang them up or arrange them into a centerpiece on the table.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Swap For Seasonal Furniture </span><br /> The little touches make all the difference. One simple touch you can do is to put out more seasonal items. Pillows, tapestries, and other furnishings will give a warm, cheery ambiance.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Use Candles </span><br /> Candles are a classic decoration that bring joy and serenity to your gathering. Place some around the dinner table or by your other decor (just be sure not place them too close). Of course, scented ones such as pine or gingerbread will fill your home with the best holiday aromas.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Make a Snack Station </span><br /> If you’ve been busy making lots of delicious treats, put them out to share with everyone. You can make a snack bar with cookies and hot chocolate for your guests to browse. Decorate the station with a little festive flair to make it match the rest of your theme.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Make a Great First Impression </span><br /> Sprucing up your entryway acts as the finishing touch to your holiday decorating. You can just go with a simple wreath, or add a few more trimmings for a more elaborate look. A small tree or some garland and lights will literally light it up. Try out your own combinations to really make it your own!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Bring the Snow Inside </span><br /> What better way to get into the seasonal mood than by making your own winter wonderland? Sprinkle around some artificial snow to get that full seasonal feeling and immerse yourself. Put it on your tree to make it look like it’s fresh from the forest. If you have young children, making footprints with the snow will let them know that Santa Claus has come by!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Incorporate Nature </span><br /> Using pieces of nature in your design will give it a more authentic feel. Plant clippings, pinecones, sticks, and berries all perfectly accent your arrangement. If you can’t find any real ones, imitations will work fine as well.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Present Your Presents </span><br /> If you haven’t yet opened up your presents, leave them out as a display. A tree without presents can look a little bare, and having some around the base will make it more presentable. If you don’t have any gifts, wrapping up some old boxes is a good substitute.</p> <p>Whether you plan to celebrate in person or <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/how-to-have-a-healthy-and-jolly-virtual-holiday-season">online</a>, it doesn’t take a lot of work to make a front page home for the holidays!</p> <p><em>Make sure your home is ready for any season with an inspection from NPI. <a href="https://www.npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">Click here</a> to find your local inspector.</em></p> 1326What to Do with Your Pets for the Holidayshttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1323/what-to-do-with-your-pets-for-the-holidaysHoliday,Home Decor,Home Maintenance,SafetyMon, 06 Dec 2021 14:38:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR PETS FOR THE HOLIDAYS</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> December 6, 2021 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-maintenance">Home Maintenance</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=home-decor">Home Decor</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/winter">winter</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/pets">pets</a></p> <p>The holiday season can be stressful for both yourself and your furry friends. While you’re mired in the whirlwind of throwing the perfect celebration, all those guests in the house, loud noises, and new smells can put animals on edge. Here’s what you can do to keep your pets calm and happy during your holiday festivities.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Create a safe retreat for your pets. </span><br /> All the hustle and bustle that comes with preparing for a holiday party puts unnecessary stress and anxiety on your animals. Especially as your home fills up with people, it can throw them into overdrive. The best thing you can do is make a private, calm space for your pet. Whether it’s your bedroom or a room on a different floor, try to make it as relaxing as possible. Place their bed and some toys along with their bowls in the room to give some semblance of normalcy. It can also help to let your guests know not to enter the room where your pets are staying. If guests want to visit with your animals, it’s best to have a family member present and to only allow one or two additional people into the room at once.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Keep them out of the kitchen. </span><br /> It’s no secret that our pets love to try and sneak food when our backs are turned. If you’re hosting a large gathering, all those delicious snacks are too much to resist for a curious critter. As you put your entrees and desserts together, block off the kitchen so your pets can’t sneak in. When you’re not cooking, put any food or ingredients in a secure spot that animals can’t easily access. Some harmful items you should certainly be cautious of leaving out are: </p> <ul> <li>Grapes </li> <li>Chocolate </li> <li>Cheese </li> <li>Raisins </li> <li>Sugar </li> <li>Garlic </li> </ul> <p>Be careful giving your pets table scraps as well, as too much can lead to stomach distress.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Don’t let them destroy your decor. </span><br /> Bright, shiny objects are another thing most pets can’t keep their paws off. Ornaments, lights, and tinsel grab your pets’ eye, and soon, they’re trying to tear them down and play. While it’s a nuisance for you, it’s a danger for your animals. Broken and shattered decorations can be easily ingested and cut your pet’s paws. To avoid an emergency vet trip, place your decorations in places that they can’t be easily torn down. A locked hutch can make a great holiday display while keeping your animals out. If you’re unsure about a certain decoration, it might be best to leave it in its box.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Ask your veterinarian for advice. </span><br /> Your vet is always your best resource. They’ll be able to check your pet’s health and let you know how well they’re holding up for your party. They can also prescribe anti-anxiety medication to calm your pet down when things get hectic. They may even give you additional information on what you can do to make things easier for your pet.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Check in on your pet every so often. </span><br /> As your party goes on, take breaks to check on your pet. It may help to take them outside for a bit and let them decompress from everything going on. Check that they have enough food and water and that they’re adjusting well. Try to play with them in the safety spot you’ve set up to help work out some of their adrenaline. </p> <p><a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/how-to-prepare-your-home-for-holiday-guests">The holidays are stressful for humans</a> and animals alike, but taking the time to maintain as much normalcy as possible will <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/top-5-christmas-catastrophes-and-how-to-avoid-them">help you avoid a disaster</a>.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Call National Property Inspections for a full assessment of your home. </span><br /> Our NPI inspectors can assess your home’s major systems and create a comprehensive report with high-quality photos. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Call an inspector near you today</a> to get the answers you need to invest with success.</p> 1323Haunted Places Series: Hatley Castlehttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1308/haunted-places-series-hatley-castleHoliday,Just for FunMon, 25 Oct 2021 20:22:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HAUNTED PLACES SERIES: HATLEY CASTLE</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> October 25, 2021 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/fall">fall</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/haunted-places-series">Haunted Places Series</a></p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Location:</span> Victoria, Vancouver Island, BC<br /> <span class="emphasis-primary">Architectural Style:</span> Gothic Revival<br /> <span class="emphasis-primary">Built:</span> 1908</p> <p>Rounding out our 2021 Haunted Places series is a major historical landmark near the coast of Vancouver Island. Opposite of another stunning (and spooky) castle, Hatley is surrounded by beautiful grounds lined with blossoming flowers. But what draws many visitors is the chance to capture something more out of the ordinary.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">James Dunsmuir Commissions the Castle </span><br /> Lieutenant-Governor James Dunsmuir, son of coal-magnate Robert Dunsmuir, ordered construction of the castle on Hatley Park. James originally planned the grounds to be used as a farm, complete with a dairy and hunting grounds for James and his friends. Enlisting the help of Victorian architect Samuel Maclure, James envisioned a commanding and lavish home. Cost was no obstacle for James, and it shows in the final details. All in all, the sprawling estate would feature 40 rooms, an 82-foot turret, surrounding stone wall, cow stables, smoke house, and other workstations. Hatley Park and the castle would remain owned by the Dunsmuir family until the latter half of the 1930s.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Hatley Castle and the Military </span><br /> After the Dunsmuir family sold the estate, the Dominion Government purchased it and used it as a Naval Training Establishment. The castle was also considered in the early years of WWII as a place for the English Royal Family to retreat in case Germany took control of Europe. Cadets would live and train at the Royal Canadian Naval College at Royal Roads. Hatley Park’s use as a military academy would continue through WWII. In 1947, the school was renamed as the RCN-RCAF Joint Services College, then shortly changed again to the Canadian Services College Royal Roads. Finally, in 1968, it became the Royal Roads Military College. The Royal Roads Military College eventually closed its doors in 1994, and it would linger on in academia as Royal Roads University.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Doomed Dunsmuirs </span><br /> James was often criticized as a public official, and he used Hatley Park as his escape when he retired. James and his wife Laura had 12 children. Their youngest son, Jim, was of fighting age when WWI broke out. Eager to serve, Jim boarded a ship for Europe--the RMS Lusitania. Tragically, a German U-boat torpedoed the Lusitania, and Jim’s body was never discovered. James was heartbroken by the death of his son. He spent the majority of his days mourning him, dying shortly after Jim.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Hauntings at Hatley </span><br /> The Dunsmuirs have had a long and tumultuous history that’s been ingrained into both the <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/haunted-places-series-craigdarroch-castle">Craigdarroch</a> and Hatley Castles. There have been accounts of music playing in the study, where James would play somber dirges to honor his lost son. Other strange noises, such as footsteps and doors opening and closing, have also been reported in the castle. When the castle was a military college, cadets would see the apparition of Laura Dunsmuir searching the faces in the dorms for her son. One visitor to the castle says a spirit followed her home, mimicking a crying baby in the night and pestering her at work.</p> <p><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Haunted Places/hatley-castle2.jpg?ver=9pSUvYaJmjtU8qJQr19QPg%3d%3d" width="100%" /></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Take a Trip to the Historic Hatley </span><br /> Hatley Park has been a must-see venue for visitors and <a class="color-secondary" href="https://hatleypark.ca/media-film/over-8o-years-filming" target="_blank">movie makers</a> for decades. The castle and grounds are still used as part of Royal Roads University. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://hatleypark.ca/visit-us" target="_blank">Book your trip</a> today!</p> <p><em>Don’t get spooked by your new home! <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Contact National Property Inspections</a> and schedule an inspection today!</em></p> 1308Haunted Places Series: Keg Mansionhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1302/haunted-places-series-keg-mansionHoliday,Just for FunMon, 11 Oct 2021 13:56:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HAUNTED PLACES SERIES: KEG MANSION</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> October 11, 2021 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/fall">fall</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/haunted-places-series">Haunted Places Series</a></p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Location:</span> Toronto, Ontario<br /> <span class="emphasis-primary">Architectural Style:</span> Gothic<br /> <span class="emphasis-primary">Built:</span> 1868</p> <p>For our next haunted location, we’re headed up north to “The Heartland Province.” Famous for its diverse population and accredited universities, Toronto is one of North America’s largest and most intriguing cities. Coincidentally, the Queen City is also known for having one of the most haunted houses in Canada.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Construction of Keg Mansion </span><br /> In Victorian-era Toronto, Jarvis Street was the symbol of high society. Elaborate mansions lined the street with each one as unique as the last. Built in 1867 by Arthur McMaster, Keg Mansion boasted an ornate interior and exterior. The red shingles and green brass window accents pop against the neutral brick. Soft colors inside line the 26 different rooms and 17 fireplaces. The home would be bought in 1882 by the Cleveland agricultural equipment salesman Hart Massey, and his wife. The Masseys added a turret, verandah, and a greenhouse, but left much of the original decoration untouched.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Massey Family </span><br /> The Masseys quickly became one of the most prominent families in the city. In fact, Hart Massey helped fund buildings at the University of Toronto, such as Massey Hall. After Hart’s death, his daughter Lillian took over his estate and named the home Euclid Hall. Having a woman run such a vast enterprise was essentially unheard of at the time. Hart’s grandsons Vincent and Raymond also rose to a prominent social status. Vincent became the Governor General of Canada in 1952, and Raymond became an Oscar-nominated actor. After Lillian’s death, the house was entrusted to the University of Toronto and it later served as a veteran’s hospital, an art gallery, and even a radio station.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Misfortunes in the Mansion </span><br /> Keg Mansion has seen its fair share of tragedy in its more than 150-year history. Lillian Massey passed away in the home in 1915. After her death, one of Lillian’s most devoted maids took her passing very hard and is said to have hanged herself in one of the rooms. A young boy visiting the home one day fell down the stairs and died from his injuries a short time later.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Ghosts of the Past in the Mansion </span><br /> There’s no shortage of ghost stories from Keg Mansion. People have reported the sounds of children playing around the home, mainly close to the stairwell the boy fell down. The distraught maid of Lillian Massey is also said to roam the building. She will oftentimes appear in the room she died in, hanging in the center. Lillian Massey herself can be heard and seen at different times, most likely still watching over the home she adored. Throughout its different uses, staff at the home have noted strange occurrences, such as feeling pushed near the oval vestibule or witnessing doors opening and closing on their own.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Keg Mansion Today </span><br /> Keg Mansion received heritage status in 1975. Shortly thereafter, it was transformed into a restaurant. <a class="color-secondary" href="https://kegsteakhouse.com/en/locations/toronto-mansion" target="_blank">The Keg Steakhouse + Bar</a> is still in operation today. So if you’re looking to fill your belly and your paranormal appetite, be sure to add this destination to your list!</p> <p><em>Don’t get spooked by your new home! <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Contact National Property Inspections</a>, and schedule an inspection today!</em></p> <p><em>Photo by <a class="color-secondary" href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:515_Jarvis_St..JPG" target="_blank">BarberMA</a>, licensed under <a class="color-secondary" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 3.0</a></em></p> 1302Haunted Places Series: Cincinnati Music Hallhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1299/haunted-places-series-cincinnati-music-hallHoliday,Just for FunMon, 04 Oct 2021 20:15:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">HAUNTED PLACES SERIES: CINCINNATI MUSIC HALL</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> October 4, 2021 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=just-for-fun">Just for Fun</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/fall">fall</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/haunted-places-series">Haunted Places Series</a></p> <p><span class="emphasis-primary">Location:</span> Cincinnati, Ohio<br /> <span class="emphasis-primary">Architectural Style:</span> Venetian Gothic, Victorian Gothic Revival Style<br /> <span class="emphasis-primary">Built:</span> 1878</p> <p><em>“It’s alive!”</em></p> <p>The leaves are changing, there’s a haunting chill in the air, and spookiest of all, our Haunted Places series has been resurrected! We’re loaded up for another road trip to some of the most paranormal places across the United States and Canada. Our first stop plays host to one of the oldest baseball teams, world-class chili, Steven Spielberg, and plenty of ghostly citizens--you guessed it, it’s “The Queen City” AKA Cincinnati!</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Elaborate Cincinnati Music Hall </span><br /> It comes as no surprise that a city as historically rich as Cincinnati has a building to match. The Cincinnati Music Hall was built in 1878 to replace the older temporary Exposition Hall. Funding for the Music Hall was started by the affluent Reuben R. Springer, who campaigned for donations from other citizens and socialites. Designed by Samuel Hannaford, Music Hall stands as one of the last Venetian Gothic buildings that were part of the Victorian Gothic Revival Style. </p> <p>Music Hall has been the home of the Cincinnati Ballet, Symphony Orchestra, Opera, May Festival Chorus, and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra. It also served as the main convention center for the city until the 1970s. A who’s who of historical figures have been spotted at Music Hall throughout the years. Names such as Ulysses S. Grant, Theodore Roosevelt, and Dwight D. Eisenhower have held public addresses and political rallies within the Hall. </p> <p>Of course, it wouldn’t be “Music Hall” without numerous talented musicians taking the stage as well. Frank Sinatra, Johnny Cash, Richard Strauss, Alexandre Guilmant, and even the Grateful Dead have stood in the spotlight of Music Hall. In 1975, Music Hall received the title of a National Historic Landmark by the U.S. Department of the Interior.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 30px; text-align: center;"><img src="https://npiweb.com/Portals/0/Blog/Article Images/Haunted Places/cincinnati-music-hall-interior-02.jpg?ver=wnDLfGPwOwhIBBHhob_81A%3d%3d" width="100%" /><br /> <em>Photo by <a class="color-secondary" href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Springer_Auditorium_2017.jpg" target="_blank">Larsonj3</a>, licensed under <a class="color-secondary" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 4.0</a></em></p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Music Hall Today </span><br /> After undergoing several renovations throughout the years, Music Hall now has four main areas: </p> <ul> <li><strong>Springer Auditorium.</strong> The main theater, Springer Auditorium has been outfitted with modern acoustics and can seat between 2,300-2,500 people. The Auditorium’s ceiling is adorned by the stunning Music Hall Chandelier.</li> <li><strong>Music Hall Ballroom. </strong>At 17,000 square feet with a capacity of 1,300 people, the Ballroom is the second largest meeting space in the city. The large dance floor makes it the perfect spot for wedding receptions, reunions, and other occasions. </li> <li><strong>Corbett Tower. </strong>Corbett Tower has been used by the Cincinnati College of Music for performances and television broadcasts. Complete with three crystal chandeliers, the 200-occupant room provides a stunning view of Washington Park. </li> <li><strong>Wilks Studio. </strong>Added after the 2016-17 renovation, Wilks Studio serves events from corporate meetings to fundraisers. The adaptable space combines new and old architecture to provide the perfect backdrop for gatherings.</li> </ul> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">What Lies Beneath </span><br /> So how does a building so elegantly crafted garner a dark history? While Music Hall itself hasn’t seen many unfortunate occurrences, the ground it stands on certainly has. Before the construction of Exposition Hall and subsequently Music Hall, there was an old pauper’s cemetery commonly referred to as Potter’s Field. This cemetery was attached to Ohio’s first insane asylum. Then in 1832, cholera ravaged the city and a new “Pest House” was built on the land. Six years later, the steamboat Moselle on the nearby canal experienced an explosion in the boilers. Many of the victims either washed ashore on Potter’s Field or were buried there later. It’s even said that Potter’s Field served as a military hospital during the Civil War.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">The Show Goes On</span><br /> With so many unmarked graves, it wasn’t uncommon to dig up remains during construction and various renovations. In fact, sightings of apparitions go back as far as Music Hall’s opening. Employees and guests alike have told stories about feeling an uneasy presence in the building. Disgruntled voices can be heard in the elevator, you feel as though you’re being followed, and the sounds of past performances echo the halls. You might even see former patrons in ghostly garb making their way to their seats or awaiting the next show.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Caught on Tape </span><br /> In 2016, local photographer Matthew Zory was taking photos of renovations inside Music Hall. In two of his photos, he captured a dark, mist-like anomaly on camera. The photos have further convinced believers the Music Hall is definitely haunted. Music Hall was also featured on the hit show Ghost Hunters in 2014.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Check Out the Scares Yourself! </span><br /> Music Hall still holds various events both <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.cincinnatiarts.org/music-hall" target="_blank">public</a> and <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.cincinnatiarts.org/plan-your-event/music-hall-plan-your-event" target="_blank">private</a>. Of course, you can go hunt for a haunting with <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.cincinnatiarts.org/events/detail/ghost-tours" target="_blank">their ghost tours</a>! Just be sure to bring your proton pack.</p> <p>Don’t get spooked by your new home! <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Find-an-Inspector">Contact National Property Inspections</a> and schedule an inspection today!</p> 1299Bonfire vs. Pit: What to Know for Your Next Summer Partyhttps://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/PostId/1240/bonfire-vs-pit-what-to-know-for-your-next-summer-partyHoliday,SafetyMon, 24 May 2021 14:31:00 GMT<p><span style="font-size:26px;"><strong><span style="line-height: 1;">BONFIRE VS. PIT: WHAT TO KNOW FOR YOUR NEXT SUMMER PARTY</span></strong></span><br /> <em class="fa fa-calendar"></em> May 24, 2021 | <em class="fa fa-folder-open"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=holiday">Holiday</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts?Category=safety">Safety</a> | <em class="fa fa-tags"></em> <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/summer">summer</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/entertaining">entertaining</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/lawn-care">lawn care</a>, <a href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/Tag/home-exterior">home exterior</a></p> <p>In summer, (and especially on summer holidays) burn injuries increase exponentially due to out-of-control flames, unsupervised grills, and other mishaps. If you plan on gathering around a campfire this summer, here’s how you can keep safe.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Bonfires</span><br /> Bonfires are great for larger groups since they’re generally bigger than a small fire pit. They give off intense heat that’ll definitely keep you warm should the night get chilly, plus a bonfire provides adequate lighting to let the party continue into the night. Yet with all of the benefits, there are some points to consider before you start. First, the larger size of bonfires can make them harder to control if it’s windy out. They also need a fair amount of clear space to burn safely. Lastly, unlike a fire pit, bonfires don’t usually have a protective barrier around the base to keep people from getting too close.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Fire Pits </span><br /> Although bonfires are nice if you’re going to have a lot of guests, fire pits include some of the safety measures bonfires might not. Portable or stationary pits tend to be smaller and don’t need as much clear land when they’re burning. Having the fire in a bowl or surrounded by a metal rim helps contain the embers, reducing the risk of anything nearby catching a stray spark. If you go with a movable fire pit, you’ll also avoid wearing down the grass in one spot of your yard, and you’ll have the flexibility of finding the perfect spot for your celebration.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Propane Pits </span><br /> In addition to traditional wood-burning pits, a popular choice among homeowners is gas- or propane-fueled fire pits. This style of fire is nice because you don’t need to constantly put wood on it to keep it going. Plus, the intensity is easier to control since all you have to do is adjust the valve. Propane fire pits come in a wide variety of designs, letting you find the perfect match for your yard. You also won’t have to deal with the smoke and smell of a normal fire when using a propane one.</p> <p><span class="emphasis-secondary">Always Protect Yourself </span><br /> No matter what you end up going with, there are certain steps you should take to keep everyone out of harm’s way.</p> <ol> <li><strong>Keep at least 10 feet. </strong>A good rule of thumb to ensure a safe distance between your fire and a nearby structure is at least 10 feet of space. </li> <li><strong>Don’t crowd. </strong>As the night goes on and your fire dies down, you might find yourself inching closer. This can put you at risk of injury should the fire flare back up. Always stay back no matter the size, and maintain a clear path around the fire for people to move freely, especially if you have pets or small children. </li> <li><strong>Properly “feed” your fire. </strong>You should only use dry, seasoned wood for your fire’s fuel. Trash like paper can burn off and get caught by the wind, potentially starting a fire nearby. </li> <li><strong>Pay attention to local guidelines. </strong>As we move into the drier part of the year, your local fire department may put out burn notices. Check any announcements for recommendations or regulations about the day you plan to have your fire--if it’s not safe, don’t risk it. Your community council or neighborhood board might also have restrictions on what you can have for a pit or if you can have one. Always make sure you’re following the rules to avoid a hefty fine. </li> <li><strong>When the party’s over… </strong>After everyone has left and the festivities are done, properly extinguish your fire. Embers can stay warm for hours after the flames die out, and under the right circumstances can start again. Pour water over the embers continuously until you hear the “hiss” stop. Everything should be cool to the touch when you’re done.<br />  </li> </ol> <p>Even if you plan on just using your grill, it’s important that you <a class="color-secondary" href="https://npiweb.com/Blog/Posts/10-barbecue-safety-tips-thatll-save-your-eyebrows">brush up on your BBQ safety</a>. The last thing you want on your fun-filled holiday is a trip to the hospital. Use these tips to have a safe, healthy summer!</p> <p><em>National Property Inspections, Inc. can assist you with your inspection needs. Contact your local inspector and <a class="color-secondary" href="https://www.npiweb.com/find-an-inspector">schedule an appointment today</a>!</em></p> 1240