HOME & GARDEN GUIDE Q. A.
Why is it important to hire a State licensed general contractor? Questions float through your head: What does it really mean to be licensed? Why are some contractors licensed and others not? And the ultimate question: Does it matter?
Contractors pay a tidy sum to play by the rules, which makes it hard for them to compete against those who don't. Homeowners can pay the price when they fail to distinguish between the two. Georgia now requires contractors to have a license to obtain a building permit. Anyone can say they are licensed, so it is important to make the contractor prove it. Go to www.sos.state.ga.us/plb/ to protect yourself.
Charlie Dallavalle, President Painting Plus Inc.
Q.
How do I choose the right piece of wall art for my living room?
A. Karen Tapelband Market Place 120
Q.
There are many “rules” for selecting a great piece of art. The color scheme must complement the focal point in the room; the frame style should match the existing furniture style, etc. My advice is to ignore the rules and go with what YOU love. Look for a piece that uniquely speaks to you and you’ll always be able to find that perfect spot for it in your home.
What are some factors in deciding between replacing or repairing your heating and air conditioning system?
A.
There are several to consider when you get the news that you have an expensive repair on your HVAC system. First, you should ask for a firm price on the proposed repair. Next, if the repair is on a major component and your system is 10 or more years old it pays to look into replacements. Additional part failures occur as equipment ages, replacement can save additional repair costs and improve your Debbie Abernathy, Owner comfort and efficiency. Also, if your system is over 15 years old, it is likely a 10 SEER air conditioner E. Smith Heating and and a 65% furnace. For every additional point in SEER you save between 5 and 10% in energy costs, Air Conditioning, Inc. we install systems up to 21 SEER. The AFUE of 65% means that 35% of your fuel is waste that goes up your flue. We now install furnaces that are 80 to 95% efficient. This with comfort improvement options like zoning and variable speed furnaces should also play into your decision-making.
Q.
Do I really need to remove my pictures and artwork from my walls to get ready to sell?
A. Danielle Peña Atlanta Communities
First impressions are everything. When someone walks into your home and the first thing they see is years of accumulated pictures and artwork, they have a hard time paying attention to the space they're in. Keep a few key pieces of artwork, as suggested by your Realtor and pack away the rest. Wall clutter doesn't photograph well either and your home could be excluded before they've ever set foot in it.
Q.
Why would I shop at the Queen of Hearts?
A.
The Queen of Hearts Antiques & Interiors has three locations offering furniture, home accessories, smalls, lamps, books, paint, clocks and much, much more. Each location is a mecca with over 190 dealer-merchants in each location -- Marietta, Alpharetta, Buford. Merchandise changes daily so make sure the Queen is one of your weekly shopping stops. Each location is open late each Stacey Anderson, Owner Queen of Hearts Thursday evening until 8 pm with refreshments and events. Like us on Facebook to stay informed.
12 March 2015
EAST COBBER
www.eastcobber.com