All Posts in "Harry Newman"

Handling Hidden Rot Found Beneath Decking with Roof Repair Near Me

Damage beneath the roof decking often goes unnoticed until it begins affecting the structure above it. Many roofs appear solid from the outside while concealed decay threatens framing, shingles, and insulation below the surface. Homeowners searching for roof repair near me usually discover how fast hidden rot can worsen once the decking is opened.

Causes of Hidden Rot Forming Beneath Aging Decking Layers

Rot usually develops in the dark, unventilated spaces between old decking and the layers above it. Moisture enters through worn shingles, lifted nails, or compromised underlayment and becomes trapped where air cannot circulate. Over time, this quiet environment allows decay organisms to thrive and soft spots begin to form.

The rate of deterioration depends on roofing age, climate, and the quality of past repairs. Small gaps or misaligned shingles often let water pass through without detection. Those searching for roofing near me often learn that unnoticed moisture … READ MORE

Harry Newman by — December 6, 2025 in Home Repair
In-Home Post-Operative Rehabilitation for Elderly Hip Replacement: A Path to Mobile Independence

For an elderly individual, a hip replacement is more than a surgical procedure; it is a gateway to restored mobility and the elimination of chronic pain. However, the surgery is only half the battle. The weeks following discharge are the most critical. In 2026, the trend has shifted heavily toward In-Home Post-Operative Rehabilitation, allowing seniors to recover in a familiar environment while utilizing “Hospital-at-Home” protocols that rival the care found in inpatient facilities.

1. Setting the Stage: The “Pre-hab” and Home Modification

Rehabilitation begins before the patient even enters the operating room. Preparing the home environment is the first step in preventing the most common post-op complication: the accidental fall.

Critical Home Adjustments:

  • The “Recovery Zone”: Set up a primary living area on the ground floor to avoid stairs for the first 2–3 weeks. This area should include a firm chair with armrests (avoid soft sofas) and a high
… READ MORE
Harry Newman by — December 2, 2025 in Home Care
The Complete Guide to Successfully Growing Tomatoes in Winter Containers

There is little that can rival the flavor of a vine-ripened tomato, but enjoying that taste when snow is falling outside seems like a gardening fantasy. While challenging, successfully growing tomatoes indoors during the deep winter months is entirely possible. It requires more planning and technical intervention than a summer garden, but the reward—a steady supply of fresh tomatoes—is well worth the effort.

The success of your indoor winter tomato operation rests on three critical pillars: selecting the right plant, compensating for minimal sunlight with powerful lights, and ensuring manual pollination.

I. Choose the Right Tomato and Container

You cannot simply bring your full-sized outdoor tomato plant inside and expect it to fruit. The first step to indoor success is choosing a variety suited for container life and limited space.

Tip 1: The Dwarf Difference. Opt for Dwarf or Micro-Dwarf Determinate varieties. Determinate tomatoes stop growing at a manageable height … READ MORE

Harry Newman by — November 29, 2025 in Home Gardening Tips
Cost-effective ways to seal basement air leaks for winter

1. The Critical Target: The Rim Joist and Sill Plate

The “rim joist” (or band joist) is the area where your house’s wooden frame meets the concrete foundation. It is notoriously leaky because wood and concrete expand and contract at different rates, creating gaps.

How to Seal It on a Budget:

  • Silicone Caulk ($8–$12 per tube): Use this for small cracks (less than 1/4 inch) between the wooden sill plate and the concrete foundation.
  • Expanding Spray Foam ($6–$10 per can): For larger gaps where the joists meet the rim board, use a “gap and cracks” insulating foam.
  • Rigid Foam Board ($25–$35 per sheet): Instead of expensive professional spray foam, buy a sheet of 2-inch XPS (extruded polystyrene). Cut small squares to fit into the “bays” between joists, then “seal the edges” of the squares with spray foam. This creates a high R-value barrier for a fraction of the cost.

2.

… READ MORE
Harry Newman by — November 27, 2025 in Home Repair
The Best Affordable, Wire-Free Smart Home Products for Renters

The allure of a smart home – automated lighting, enhanced security, and climate control at your fingertips – is undeniable. Yet, for many renters, the dream quickly clashes with the reality of lease agreements and the fear of losing a security deposit. Installing complex wiring or drilling into walls is often out of the question. The good news? You don’t need to own your home to enjoy the benefits of smart technology. The market is now flooded with excellent, affordable, and wire-free smart home products perfectly suited for renters. The golden rule for a renter’s smart home is simple: always choose non-invasive, easily removable, and portable devices.

This guide will walk you through the best budget-friendly, plug-and-play smart home solutions that empower you to upgrade your living space without ever picking up a drill.

I. Plug-and-Play Lighting & Power: Instant Smart Upgrades

The simplest way to dip your toes into … READ MORE

Harry Newman by — November 20, 2025 in Smart Home Product