Fall Home Improvement | Saturday, September 22, 2018
Fall Gne, Je n¸,e,f Seasonal projects and cold-weather prep to get your home ready for winter.
Published Saturday, September 22 in The Brattleboro Reformer
★ Structural Restoration-Repair and/or Replacement of ★ New Foundations Constructed under Existing Damaged Foundations, Sills, Joists, Framing Timbers Buildings ★ Recycling & Dismantling of Old Barns & Re-Assembly ★ Barn Frames, Timbers, Barn Board & Antique Wood For Sale ★ Tasteful Remodeling of and Additions to Period Homes
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House & Barn Restoration
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Saturday, September 22, 2018 | Fall Home Improvement
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Although homeowners can typically get many years out of their homes’ windows, ultimately windows will need to be replaced. Homes that are more than 20 years old and still have their original windows could be due for an upgrade. Windows help regulate the temperature in a home, let in natural light and keep insects, weather and outdoor elements outside where they belong. The right windows also can add value to a property by providing aesthetic appeal and increasing curb appeal. Although homeowners can typically get many years out of their homes' windows, ultimately windows will need to be replaced. Homes that are more than 20 years old and still have their original windows could be due for an upgrade. Aluminum- or woodframed windows also may be ripe for changing. Here are some signs that it's time to replace windows, courtesy of Good Housekeeping, Centra® and the real estate website Redfin.
could be to blame. Aging, drafty windows can make it necessary to run HVAC systems more often and at higher or lower temperatures in order to keep homes comfortable.
tween panes is broken. In this instance, replacement windows are necessary.
Windows are difficult to open or close Homeowners may get used to the quirks of their windows, but those that are difficult to open or close may require replacement. In addition, if windows need to be propped open, it's time to replace them.
Condensation on windows Fog or condensation buildup on windows can occur if the seal be-
Water infiltration Warping or decaying window frames can make it easy for rain or snow to get into the home. Wood frames are particularly prone to moisture decay. If frames are warping or allowing water into the home, it's time for an upgrade.
Fall Home Improvement | Saturday, September 22, 2018
Signs it is time for new windows
Drafty feel in the home Window frames can begin to shrink as they age, allowing air to flow from the outdoors in and vice versa. Homeowners may notice drafts when standing near windows or hear whistling on notably windy days.
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Rising energy bills
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Saturday, September 22, 2018 | Fall Home Improvement
A guide to safely removing fallen leaves Raking leaves is a chore many people immediately associate with autumn. Even though raking seems like a simple activity, it's still possible to be injured while removing leaves from the yard. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center advises that pain from outdoor leaf chores can range from strained back muscles to twisted knees. Blisters on the hands and sunburn are other potential side effects. Many people do not realize that raking is a thorough cardiovascular workout. Individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease or those who have
recovered from surgery may not be well enough to rake leaves. Here’s how to make autumn leaf removal more of a breeze when the job is done safely. • Pay attention when using a leaf blower. Be cautious not to point an operational blower in the direction of people or pets, as debris can be blown about and cause injury. • Stretch out before raking leaves. Warm up muscles beforehand so they are less likely to cramp. UPMC experts suggest taking a short walk prior to raking to stimulate circulation. • Use proper raking form. Much like snow shoveling, one should emphasize proper posture when raking, with legs slightly bent and weight distributed evenly. Hold the rake handle close to the body and keep
one hand near the top of the rake for better leverage. • Use the proper gear. A leaf rake fans out like a triangle and comes in various widths. Choose a lightweight material that can be easily maneuvered. A metal rake is for stones and dirt and shouldn't be used for leaves. To get between bushes, a smaller version of a leaf rake, called a shrub rake, should be used. • Wear protective gear. When raking or leaf blowing, protect your eyes against debris. You also may want to use a mask to prevent inhalation of leaf mold and other particulates. Gloves can protect hands from blisters. • Follow manufacturers’ directions. Read the instructions for powered leaf blowers, and never modify the device in an unauthorized way.
• Use a tarp and lift wisely. Rake leaves onto a tarp that can be dragged to a garbage pail or to the curb for municipal pick up. For those who must lift bags of leaves, do so by bending at the knees, not from the waist. • Wear sunscreen. Protect skin from the sun. Even though temperatures are cooler in the fall, this does not mean the sun's rays are any less harmful. Also, take breaks to rehydrate frequently. • Use a secure ladder. When removing leaves from gutters, be sure the ladder is sturdy and secure. Consider having a friend serve as a spotter, holding on to the ladder to offer greater security. Do not overextend to stretch for leaves. If at any time during leaf cleanup you feel sharp or dull, incessant pains, stop working. Listen to your body’s signals and start the task anew the next day or when you feel better.
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Stucco, reclaimed wood and brick can be more ecofriendly than vinyl siding and other materials. If new siding is on the list of must-do home projects this year, there are many factors to consider. Though it’s a transformative renovation, replacement siding is a significant and potentially expensive undertaking. Therefore, careful consideration must be given to the materials used and their maintenance, longevity, insulation factor, and cost. Many homeowners also want siding that is eco-friendly. Sustainability is an important consideration for many homeowners. Data from the National Association of Home Builders’ “Green Multifamily and Single Family Homes 2017 SmartMarket Brief”
indicates that at least one-third of single-family and multifamily home builders who were surveyed said that green building is a significant portion of their overall activity (more than 60 percent of their portfolio). By 2022, this number should increase to nearly onehalf in both the single-family and multifamily sectors. Green building has become an important and established part of the residental construction sector. Where siding is sourced, the materials that go into its fabrication and how well that siding insulates a home are key aspects of its “green factor.” The following are some of the more sustainable options in home siding.
Avoid any negative environmental impact by choosing locally produced or reclaimed bricks - or those made from post-consumer content. The longevity of bricks can often offset the energy expenditure in their manufacture. Plus, many bricks are made from natural clay, which can be an excellent insulator.
Reclaimed timber
Stucco
A house sided with clapboard, or a log cabin-inspired look, is iconic. These types of siding are typically made from insect-repellant pine, cedar, cypress, or redwood. While lumber certified by the Forest Stewardship Council is environmentally friendly, homeowners may want to seek out reclaimed
HouseLogic says traditional stucco is made from sand and Portland cement mixed with water to make a usable plaster. It’s tough and durable - often lasting the life of the house. Eco-friendly variants include stucco made with an earth-and-lime mixture, offsetting the CO2 emissions associated
lumber. This wood has history and causes very little environmental impact. Plus, timber salvaged from old buildings or fallen trees may be superior to new wood because it likely came from slow-growing, old trees with dense grain.
Brick
with cement production. Stucco can reduce air infiltration that causes drafts in a home.
Fiber-cement Fiber-cement is similar to stucco in that it is made from sand, Portland cement, clay, and wood pulp fibers. It can be fire-resistant and insect-proof and will not rot. It’s a stable material that can recover almost 80 percent of the initial cost, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
Stone This nonrenewable resource can be beautiful on a home and durable, but mining it can impact the environment. If homeowners can use reclaimed or displaced stone, those are more sustainable options. Manufactured stone, which is cement and other materials molded to look like stone, is also aesthetically appealing and more eco-friendly.
Fall Home Improvement | Saturday, September 22, 2018
Green options in home siding
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Saturday, September 22, 2018 | Fall Home Improvement METRO CREATIVE
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Protect your home (and more) from winter’s freeze
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Winter’s bite can be severe. Homeowners can protect themselves and their properties when the freeze sets in. Freezing temperatures may be good for ice skating or building snowmen, but sub-freezing temperatures can be dangerous for the average person and his or her home. Cold weather often leaves people scurrying to do whatever is necessary to safeguard themselves from the big chill. But it's important homeowners also protect their homes in cold weather.
Plumbing Plumbing and pipes may be vulnerable to cold weather. Frozen pipes may burst and cause sub-
stantial damage to a home, potentially causing flooding and structural damage. Homeowners should disconnect and drain garden hoses before winter arrives. Water to outdoor hose bibs should be turned off, though the valves on these outdoor faucets should be left open to drain. Also, outdoor faucets can be covered with insulating foam covers. The Red Cross says pipes that freeze most frequently include pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces. Close vents to the outside in areas like attics and basements to limit the amount of cold air that gets indoors. Think about insulating unheated areas, as well as using pipe sleeves, heat tape or wraps on exposed pipes. By opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors, homeowners can allow warm air from a home
to reach pipes under the sink. During extreme freezes, keep cold water dripping from a sink to prevent pipes from freezing.
Service HVAC systems It's important to ensure that heating systems are working properly prior to the cold-weather season. It may only take hours for the interior of a home to reach dangerously low temperatures without adequate heat. Homeowners should schedule annual checkups of furnaces and hot water heaters. Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks, install a clean air filter and make sure all thermostats are working properly.
Have fuel ready Homeowners who heat their homes with oil, wood or coal should make sure they have plen-
ty of fuel on hand in advance of winter. Shortages can occur, and it may take some time for new fuel to arrive in the midst of a cold snap. As a precaution, homeowners can rely on portable space heaters to fill in the heating gaps during freezing temperatures. Exercise extreme caution with these devices, turning them off when leaving the room and remembering to avoid overloading outlets.
Protect outside Drain birdbaths, clean out downspouts and remove water from other items where it can freeze and cause damage. Inspect roofing prior to the snowy season, but stay off roofs during freezing weather. Remove snow shovels and other winter gear from storage and make sure the items are easily accessible during snowstorms.
Home gyms can make working out more efficient, saving time driving to a fitness facility and enabling people to stick to a workout regimen during inclement weather. Having a gym at home also may motivate people to work out more frequently and more effectively, as they can exercise at any time of day they choose and won’t need to share equipment with fellow fitness enthusiasts. While workouts will vary from individual to individual, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend adults should combine both aerobic and strength training to achieve optimal health. The CDC recommends adults do at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity. In addition, the CDC advises adults to include moderate- or high-intensity muscle-strengthening activities, involving all major muscle groups, in their workout regimens two or more days per week. When constructing their
home gyms, homeowners should keep CDC recommendations in mind so they can enjoy as complete a workout as possible. The following are some items homeowners can consider when outfitting their home gyms.
Barbells Barbells aren’t just for biceps. Barbells can be used to work all the major muscle groups, including arms, chest, shoulders, legs, and back. Purchase a set of barbells of various weights so workouts can be varied depending on the muscle group being targeted.
Bench, bar and plates A bench, bar and plates also can be invaluable to people who want a fitness facility-quality workout at home. Purchase plates of various weights but remember to be cautious with the amount of weight you lift when no partner or spotter is present. When shopping for a bench, look for one that can incline and decline, which in-
creases the range of exercises you can perform at home.
Land line If the gym will be in a basement or another area of the home where access to a mobile network is unreliable, the presence of a land line in the room can help in the case of emergencies. Those who work out at home will be doing so without gym staff or other fitness enthusiasts nearby, so the land line can be invaluable should someone suffer an injury when exercising alone. If possible, place the land line in the middle of the room so it’s not too far away from any particular area.
Flooring Homeowners have various flooring options when outfitting their home gyms. Carpet tiles, rubber flooring, foam flooring, and vinyl tiles are popular options. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice may depend on how the gym will be
used. For example, foam flooring may be compressed under heavy equipment, which may be problematic for homeowners who want to include lots of equipment in their home gyms. Before considering which flooring material to lay down, write down your likely workout routine before taking that write-up with you to a flooring contractor who can recommend the best material for you.
Cardiovascular equipment Homeowners don’t have to reinvent the wheel when purchasing cardiovascular equipment for their home gyms. If a treadmill worked for you at the gym, purchase one for your home gym as well. Cardio equipment can be expensive, but savvy homeowners may be able to find fully functional secondhand equipment online. If you currently have a gym membership, speak with the owner about purchasing a used item directly from the facility.
Fall Home Improvement | Saturday, September 22, 2018
Items to consider when outfitting a home gym
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Saturday, September 22, 2018 | Fall Home Improvement
Design a more functional pantry Pantries are popular features that homeowners can customize depending on their storage needs and the amount of time they spend in their kitchens. Many homeowners wish they had more storage space, and kitchens are one area where people seemingly can always use more storage. Despite a desire for more kitchen space, until recently, kitchen pantries fell out of favor. Builders and architects may have thought that close proximity to supermarkets as well as multi-use cabinets in kitchens would offset the need for pantries. But according to a recent survey from the National Association of Home Builders, a kitchen pantry is the most desirable kitchen feature for buyers in the market for a new home. According to a 2016 survey
from ReportLinker, 98 percent of Americans say cooking at home is their preferred way to prepare a meal. And despite the wide array of restaurants, prepared meals and fast food options nearby, more than one-third of people cook at home daily, with nearly 50 percent cooking between three and six days a week. In order to accommodate for spending more time in the kitchen, homeowners are directing additional attention to kitchen preparation and storage features. In fact, one recent trend in kitchen renovations is creating custom-designed pantries.
Locate the appropriate space Ideally, pantries should be in or adjacent to the kitchen. But not every home layout allows for this setup. Some homeowners need to move storage pantries into the garage, the basement or a mud/ laundry room. Various factors should be considered before placing a pantry outside a kitchen. What is the climate? Will food spoil? Is there a
possibility that vermin or insects can infiltrate the room and access food? These factors will dictate whether to have closed cabinets, air-tight bins or open shelves or if other modifications must be made to the room prior to building.
Choose the type of pantry Accessibility is essential in a pantry. Everything should be easily reached and grabbed as needed without having to move too many things. Ideally, foods should be arranged in a single layer so that all items can be viewed at a glance. Shelves of various depths and heights can accommodate items of different sizes. Adjustable shelves are ideal because they can be modified as foods change. Sliding drawers can improve reach in cabinets. In smaller spaces, French doorstyle reach-in cabinets are con-
venient and flexible. In complete kitchen remodels or new constructions, walk-in pantries offer the most space and flexibility.
Must-have features Pantries serve different functions in different homes. For the bulk shopper, a pantry with plenty of room for large items will be needed. Lighting can be beneficial in all pantries. Lights can improve visibility when trying to locate items. Others prefer an outlet for charging hand-held vacuums or other small appliances. Counter space in the pantry enables homeowners to unload groceries directly onto pantry shelves. For pantries located outside of the kitchen, built-in freezers can maximize storage possibilities, especially for those who freeze-andeat after bulk shopping ventures.
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Homeowners looking to add air to their homes can ďŹ nd inspiration anywhere. Style can even be tailored to reect places homeowners have visited. Whether they call to mind the narrow streets of London, the sand-bleached beaches of a Caribbean island or the urban buzz of New York City, designs can reect one's travels and evoke some of the same feelings homeowners got when visiting their favorite places. Professional interior designers often pull inspiration from unique places, and so can homeowners who love to travel. Those who want to illustrate their wanderlust through their home's decor can consider these tips.
Embrace the vibe Urban centers are awash in energy and color. This spirit can be reected with modern architecture, bold prints, metallic accents, and innovative lighting.
Work with colors Think about the colors that signify a particular locale and bring those hues into the space. The color palettes of the beach, for example, include grays, beiges, blues, and greens. The popularity of gray-tone neutrals allows homeowners to bring in these colors as a neutral backdrop, and then add a splash of whimsy with a few decorative accents.
Pick an inspiration piece
Try natural materials Vacation hotspots like Hawaii, Southern California and other areas of the PaciďŹ c tend to put heavy emphasis on natural materials. Items like bamboo, sea grass, stones, and woven baskets can invite the outdoors into a home.
Fall Home Improvement | Saturday, September 22, 2018
Let locations inspire design
Homeowners can direct their focus to one particular memento from a vacation or excursion. A vivid piece of artwork, a piece of furniture, a sculpture, or even a wardrobe element can serve as a catalyst for an entire room. Use this piece to match colors and textures.
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Saturday, September 22, 2018 | Fall Home Improvement The Brattleboro Reformer | Reformer.com 10
Clean indoor air can help reduce asthma attacks Homeowners who plan to renovate their homes can consider using the appropriate specifications for HVAC systems to promote good indoor air, as well as address any other potential problems that may be compromising indoor air quality. Did you know that, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 25 million Americans, including roughly seven million children, have asthma? It's true, and those numbers have steadily risen in recent years. Asthma is more than occasional wheezing or feeling out of breath during physical activity. Asthma is chronic and can lead to coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, fast breathing, and chest tightness, states the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. In the 21st century, people spend significant time indoors at home, school or work, and indoor air environments could be triggers for asthma. Improving indoor air quality can help people breathe clearly. The AAFA notes that the following agents can adversely affect indoor air quality, potentially triggering asthma attacks.
Allergens Allergens such as mold, dust mites, pet dander and fur, and waste from insects or rodents thrive in many homes. Ensuring indoor air quality is high can cut back on the amount of allergens in the air. People with asthma can invest in an air purifier and vacuum regularly, being sure to use a HEPA-equipped appliance. Routinely
replacing HVAC system filters can help prevent allergens from blowing around the house. Also, frequent maintenance of HVAC systems will ensure they are operating safely and not contributing to poor indoor air quality. Mold can be mitigated by reducing moisture in a home. Moist environments in the kitchen and bathroom may promote mold growth. Ventilation is key to keep mold at bay.
Tobacco smoke Thirdhand smoke, or THS, may be unfamiliar to many people. A 2011 report published in Environmental Health Perspectives says THS is an invisible combination of gases and particles that can cling to clothing, cushions, carpeting, and other materials long after secondhand smoke has cleared from a room. Studies have indicated that residual nicotine levels can be found in house dust where people smoke or once smoked. Studies have indicated that smoke compounds can adsorb onto surfaces and then desorb back into air over time. Keeping tobacco smoke out of a home can improve indoor air quality and personal health.
VOCs Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are gases released from commonly used products. These can include paints and varnishes, cleaning supplies, air fresheners, new furniture, and new carpet. People with asthma may find that VOCs can trigger attacks. Airing out items, reducing usage of products that are heavily scented and choosing low- or no-VOC products can help. Making cleaning products from baking soda, vinegar and liquid oil soap also can keep indoor air quality high.
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Countertops come in various materials, not all of which should be treated the same way. Quartz, granite, marble, laminate, and tile countertops require different types of maintenance. Kitchen remodels are a popular home improvement project that help homeowners recoup large percentages of their initial investments at resale. A kitchen remodel can invigorate a home and make the most popular room in the house more functional. According to HomeAdvisor, a home-improvement informational guide, homeowners spend an average of $22,000 on kitchen remodels. However, lavish projects can cost more than $50,000. Protecting
such investments is important and requires that homeowners understand how to properly maintain kitchen features so they have the longest life possible. This includes the new countertops that make the kitchen look complete. Countertops come in various materials, not all of which should be treated the same way. Quartz, granite, marble, laminate, and tile countertops require different types of maintenance.
Granite Polished or honed granite countertops offer a high-end look that adds instant value to a kitchen. Natural variations in granite give each kitchen a custom look. To keep granite countertops clean, avoid abrasive cleansers that can scratch, and opt for warm, soapy water instead. Stains are possible,
Laminate
Engineered quartz countertops are popular. Quartz countertops are nearly maintenance-free and resistant to stains, scratches and even heat. Quartz will not need to be sealed like natural stone and can be cleaned using just a damp cloth with a mild, nonabrasive soap.
One of the more budget-friendly materials, laminate countertops can be fabricated to mimic the look of natural stone, wood or even quartz. Laminate is less resistant to damage than other materials and will need a gentle touch. Formica® says to never use abrasive cleansers, scouring pads or steel wool when cleaning laminate countertops. For tough stains, an all-purpose cleaner should suffice when applied with a nylon-bristled brush. Test any cleanser in a discreet area first.
Marble
Tile
Marble is a natural stone that is porous and will need to be resealed periodically. Because marble has high levels of the mineral calcite, it can be reactive when acids come in contact with it, and etch marks may appear. Promptly wipe away tomato juice, lemon juice, perfume, or toothpaste. Marble is softer than granite and will wear at a faster rate. Avoid scratching and exercise caution when using knives or sharp objects around marble.
Cleaning tile countertops requires getting into crevices along the grout lines. A toothbrush and a mildew-fighting cleaner or bleach diluted with water is advised. Also, unglazed tiles need to be sealed yearly. Some soap may leave residue, which can be removed with a solution of vinegar and water.
Quartz
Fall Home Improvement | Saturday, September 22, 2018
Caring for kitchen countertops
but can be remedied with a baking soda paste left to sit for a couple of hours, advises Angie’s List. Wipe up oils, acids and soda promptly to avoid stains, and follow advised sealing routines.
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