Austin Homeowners Straight Talk

Outdoor Lighting

It is very frustrating to turn on your exterior lighting only to hear the circuit breaker trip while it remains dark outside. This can happen with security lighting circuits, pool circuits, patio circuits, or any other circuits exposed to the weather or any source of moisture. All too often these types of problems are caused by water entering an electrical connection associated with the circuit. This causes a short between the conductors or between a conductor and the ground. The repair of this problem requires finding the location of the faulty electrical connection and making it waterproof. This can be a very time-consuming and expensive job. Obviously, it is easier and cheaper to properly waterproof electrical connections during their initial installation if there is any chance of their exposure to moisture.

Methods Of Prevention

There are three basic methods of preventing water from entering an electrical connection. You can use a waterproof connector, coat, and tape a standard wire connector, or install the standard wire connectors in a waterproof container. Each method is acceptable depending on the particular situation. Waterproof electrical connectors are available for both high voltage and low voltage electrical circuits. They are similar to standard electrical connectors but have an added physical barrier to water and usually an additional silicone- or tar-based insulating compound. They are available in both crimp-on and compression styles. It is imperative to read the instructions carefully before using a waterproof electrical connector for the first time. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to be assured of a waterproof electrical connection. Waterproof electrical connectors are usually more expensive than standard electrical connectors but have an ease of installation that makes them ideal for many applications. In certain instances, it is best to use a standard electrical connector and merely make it waterproof by taping and coating it. Standard black electrical tape does not guarantee a waterproof electrical connection. Even if many layers of tape are used, over time the tape will degrade and allow water to come into contact with the conductors. A waterproof electrical connection requires the use of rubber-based electrical tape. It is thicker than normal electrical tape and will not degrade as much over time. After applying the tape the entire connection is coated with a special tar- or silicone-based liquid. Both the tape and coating are readily available wherever electrical supplies are sold and are relatively inexpensive.

Water Proof Containers

Waterproof containers are also available. These come in several forms. Re-enterable metal or PVC boxes are made with sealing gaskets to prevent the intrusion of any water. Permanently sealed containers are filled with an insulating gel that prevents water damage to the circuit. These boxes can be costly but they allow the use of standard electrical connectors and are easy to install. Waterproof electrical connections are possible at any location where they are required. Make sure that power is turned off at the source and they can be installed safely by almost anyone. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and you will be rewarded with a quality waterproof electrical connection that will provide years of trouble-free service.

The Corrugated Metal Roof

Corrugated metal roofing was once seen as something only used for agricultural, industrial, or commercial purposes. There is a reason that corrugated sheet metal roofing has remained in use for many years and has started to find new popularity in residential buildings. It is a low maintenance rood and with increasing concerns about saving money on energy, using corrugated metal roofing is seen as a green solution. It is also a low-cost option making it very attractive to many homeowners.

Low Maintenance

Using metal in part of a home’s structure will raise concerns about rust and how much maintenance will be needed to keep this part of the home’s construction in good condition. The good news is that you will never have to worry about rust with corrugated metal roofing. No rust because the materials have been designed to resist corrosion from air and water. Best of all you don’t have to worry about replacing corrugated roofing for years. Good quality corrugated metal roofing can last for up to fifty years. This is great for those of us who want to put something in our homes and not worry about it peaking down or needing to be replaced in five or ten years. So if you are looking for long-lasting building material, then this is it.

Eco-Friendly

If you would like to make your home more environmentally friendly then using corrugated metal roofing in your home is a great way to do this. By using corrugated metal roofing in your home, you can cut your energy bills. This is because corrugated metal roofing helps to keep a building well insulated. Not only does this help heat from escaping in winter, but it can also keep your home cool in the summer. A perfect solution for those of us who don’t want to rely heavily on central heating and air conditioning to heat and cool our homes. Even better this roofing material is entirely recyclable so you can be sure that you are not doing any harm to the environment.

Low Cost

Perhaps the best part of using corrugated metal roofing in your home is that it is a very low-cost option. It is lightweight, so there is no need for massive supports in your house. The material itself is a lot more affordable than other conventional materials used in roofing. There’s no need to think twice about corrugated metal roofing in your home.