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Should Your HVAC Fan Be on “Auto” or “On”?
What works best for humidity, mold and air quality in Northeast Florida Look at your thermostat and you will probably see a small switch labeled Auto and On. It looks minor, but in Northeast Florida it can affect how humid your home feels. Humidity matters because mold grows where moisture lingers. The short answer When your air conditioner is cooling, set the fan to Auto. What the two settings do Auto: the fan runs only while the air conditioner is actively cooling. On: the
Les Hanna
23 hours ago2 min read


Why Is My House So Humid With the A/C Running? A Northeast Florida Inspector Explains
If your A/C runs all day and the house still feels sticky, the river probably isn't the problem. Here are the real causes and what to fix first.
Les Hanna
Sep 217 min read


Painted-Over Soffit Vents: The Quiet Problem Hiding on Older Northeast Florida Homes
The small vents under the eaves of an older home are what let the attic breathe. On a lot of houses, a paint roller sealed them shut years ago - and the roof has been paying for it ever since.
Les Hanna
Sep 176 min read


When Exterior Structures Fail: What This Week’s Deck Collapse Reminds Us About Home Safety
A recent deck collapse in Northeast Florida that injured multiple people is a sobering reminder that exterior structures often fail quietly, long before visible warning signs appear. Decks, balconies, stairs, and railings are exposed to constant moisture, heat, and use—especially in coastal environments and short-term rental properties. Periodic evaluations of these structures can help identify hidden issues early and reduce the risk of sudden, dangerous failures.
Les Hanna
Jan 261 min read


Common HVAC and Attic Issues That Create Mold Conditions in Florida Homes
In Florida homes, mold problems often start with HVAC or attic conditions that allow moisture to linger. Issues like poor humidity control, condensation, and inadequate ventilation can create mold-friendly environments without visible leaks. This article explains the most common HVAC and attic problems and when a mold assessment can help identify the cause.
Les Hanna
Jan 183 min read


Musty Smells in Florida Homes: When It’s More Than Just Humidity
A musty smell in a Florida home isn’t always “just humidity.” Persistent odors often point to trapped moisture or hidden conditions that allow mold to develop. This article explains why musty smells come and go, what causes them in Florida homes, and when a mold assessment can provide clear answers.
Les Hanna
Jan 185 min read


Why Mold Keeps Coming Back After You Clean It
Mold that keeps coming back after cleaning is a common frustration for Florida homeowners. In many cases, the issue isn’t the cleanup—it’s lingering moisture or hidden conditions that allow mold to return. This article explains why recurring mold happens, what cleaning misses, and when a professional mold assessment makes sense.
Les Hanna
Jan 185 min read


Why Your Home’s Paint Is More Than Just Cosmetic
A fresh coat of paint does more than make your home look sharp — it’s one of the most important defenses your property has against Florida’s harsh climate. Here in Northeast Florida , where humidity, salt air, and intense UV rays constantly attack exterior surfaces, paint failure can quickly turn into water intrusion, wood rot, and costly structural repairs . At Hanna Home Services , we see it all the time during home inspections across Clay, Duval, and St. Johns counties . P
Les Hanna
Oct 16, 20253 min read


Roof Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Your Roof in Northeast Florida
Why Roof Maintenance Matters in Northeast Florida Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home—yet it’s often one of the most overlooked. In Northeast Florida, where hurricanes, hail, and sudden storms are part of life, Michaela Colton, Fortress Roofing & Construction proper roof maintenance can make all the difference in protecting your property. We spoke with Michaela Colton of Fortress Roofing and Construction to get expert insights on how homeowners can exten
Les Hanna
Sep 12, 20252 min read
🌿 Vegetation and Your Home: Why Shrubs, Trees, and Vines Are Silent Dangers
When most Northeast Florida homebuyers picture their dream home, they think of beautiful landscaping—mature trees, lush shrubs, flowering vines. But what many don’t realize is that the very plants that boost curb appeal can quietly wreck your house from the ground up. At Hanna Home Services, vegetation-related damage shows up in nearly every inspection we perform across Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Orange Park, and surrounding areas. Here’s why. 1️⃣ Wood Rot: Moisture + Plant
Les Hanna
Jun 27, 20252 min read


The Importance of Proper Bathroom Ventilation
A bathroom fan that's too small — or vented straight into the attic — quietly feeds mold in humid Northeast Florida homes. Here's how to tell yours isn't keeping up, how to size one correctly, and the venting mistake we find most often on inspections.
Les Hanna
Dec 21, 20244 min read


Understanding Granule Loss on Asphalt Shingles
Granules in the gutter are normal for a while, and then they aren't. Here's how to tell ordinary shedding from the kind that means your roof is near the end, and what it changes for insurance and repairs.
Les Hanna
Dec 21, 20244 min read


Title: Roof Inspections 101: Common Problems and When to Call for a New Roof
The roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, yet it’s often overlooked until a problem arises. At Hanna Home...
Les Hanna
Dec 21, 20242 min read


The Ultimate Guide to Proper Garage Door Maintenance
Your garage door is more than just an entry point for your vehicle—it's a key component of your home's safety, security, and curb appeal....
Les Hanna
Dec 1, 20243 min read


Is your home properly sealed? Caulking essentials for your windows.
Identifying and correcting bad exterior window caulking is essential to maintaining your home's energy efficiency and protecting it from...
Les Hanna
Aug 21, 20243 min read


Preparing For The Aftermath Of A Hurricane
We appreciate all the valuable hurricane preparation articles, but at Hanna Home Services, we believe it's equally important to prepare...
Les Hanna
Jul 1, 20243 min read


The Importance of Gutters on a Home: Insights from a Northeast Florida Home Inspector
Hello, homeowners, home buyers and home enthusiasts! I'm excited to share some valuable insights into a feature of a home that you might...
Les Hanna
Jun 1, 20243 min read


Keeping Cool: DIY Home Air Conditioning Maintenance Tips
As temperatures rise, your home's air conditioning becomes a cherished ally in the battle against summer heat. However, like any...
Les Hanna
Mar 16, 20242 min read


Cleaning Your Dryer Vent For Safety & Savings
A clogged dryer vent is a fire hazard, and it quietly costs you money on every load. Here's why it matters, the warning signs to watch for, how often to clean it, and the vent setup problems we find on Northeast Florida inspections.
Les Hanna
Mar 8, 20244 min read


Battling Termite Swarms: A Homeowner's Guide to Protection in North Florida
Seeing winged insects around your windows in spring? In North Florida that's often a termite swarm, not flying ants. Here's how to tell the difference, what a swarm near your house actually means, and the steps that keep termites out.
Les Hanna
Feb 13, 20245 min read
Plain-language guides for buyers and agents. No scare tactics.
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