About HomeownerWire

HomeownerWire helps US homeowners make smarter decisions about repairs, contractors, DIY projects, repair costs and insurance.

Every guide starts from a real homeowner question and is built from official and authoritative sources — government agencies, state regulators, manufacturers' documentation and recognized trade bodies. Each guide is fact-checked by a separate reviewer before it is published, and we list our sources at the end of every article.

Our guides are general information. They are not legal, insurance, financial or engineering advice. For decisions about your home, check your policy, your contract, local codes, and talk to a licensed professional.

See our editorial policy and disclosure.