fall
homeimprovement SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO THE WADENA PIONEER JOURNAL/INTERCOM
September 24, 2011
Shutting down the lawn Wadena County Master Gardener says watering not necessary Rachelle Klemme rklemme@wadenapj.com
You know you live in Minnesota when the National Weather Service issues a freeze warning while it is still technically summer. The change of seasons means a change in how to care for one’s lawn and garden. As grass begins to turn brown, some people decide to stop mowing earlier than others. Kyle Schulz, Wadena County master gardener, said it is a matter of personal preference. “Some people like it neat, so they want it all mowed down. Other people would rather see a little green and have it a little ragged,” she said. “That’s a personal opinion. The longer the grass is, the more moisture it will continue to hold because it shades the soil, so not as much evaporates. That’s why, if you let it grow and do not mow it at this point, it does continue to green because there is a little bit of moisture there.” It is not necessary to water the lawn in the fall. “The lawn is shutting down for the year. The grass will come back. The grass is dying because it’s dry, but the roots will rejuvenate in the spring when there is moisture,” Schulz said. Then, there is the matter of what to do with the fallen leaves left on the lawn. “If they’re only about an inch or so thick – maybe an inch and a half – if you mow them with your lawn mower, they’re going to be chopped up enough so that after you are done, then they’re going to look almost
like the lawn has just been mowed. This is fine. You can just leave them there,” she said. “However, if after you have mowed, there are windrows or still piles of leaves on the lawn, they need to raked off because this will cause disease, mold and things like that to grow in the lawn over winter.” Lawns can be fertilized, which should be done the first week of September and again right before freeze-up around October. Schulz said that if people both fertilize and aerate their lawns, the cores pulled out from aeration can rest on top of the soil. When it rains, the fertilizer and cores from the soil dissolve and the cores act as a mulch on the lawn. “The reason that you want to fertilize in fall is so that when it starts raining and it warms up, that grass can take off right away in the spring,” she said. “Grass does well in the spring, and it does well in the fall. When it gets really hot in the summer, grass kind of stands still – as much as it has grown this year. Grass is a cool season plant.” For people who maintain flower gardens, there are steps to take care of perennials – the flowers that come back year after year. “When it’s dry like this, you really should continue to water them,” Schulz said. “We’ve had lots of rain this summer, but you don’t want to have them go into the winter dry. You want as much moisture there for them as possible.” Once the ground freeze happens, there is no moisture to absorb. Schulz said that if the perennials are diseased, they should be cut off to about four inches above the ground, and the diseased
leaves should be disposed of – burned or thrown in the trash. Dusty mildew on the plant is a visible sign of disease. “It should not be put in the compost pile,” Schulz said. She said that the compost is normally supposed to be hot enough to kill any diseased plants – but in the fall, the temperature might not reach a high enough temperature to kill the diseases and weed seeds. “As a result, they’re going to germinate, they’re going to grow, they’re going to prosper in that compost pile,” she said. For healthy perennials, the foliage can be left there all winter, Shulz said. “I cut them down to about four to six inches after it has really frozen,” she said. Putting mulch on the flowers protects them. “The mulch can be straw; it can be leaves. I like to use bags of leaves that we rake up from the lawn,” she said. Mulch should not be applied until the ground freezes, which is typically around the first week of November. Winter interest plants like sedum, some decorative grasses and some daisies don’t need to be cut. In August and September, perennials can be fertilized. “You make a ring around each group of perennials,” Schulz said, adding that just a small amount of fertilizer should be used. “When it is watered, or when it rains, it seeps down to the outside of the plant. There are roots out there from that plant, and they will absorb that,” she said. “You don’t want to spread the fertilizer directly on the peren-
Kyle Schulz, Wadena County Master Gardener
nial plant, because it can burn the crown of that perennial.” It is also possible to wait to fertilize in the same manner the next spring. “The roots of those perennial plants are still growing, and they will continue to grow until it gets really, really cold out,” Schulz said. Schulz said that for people wanting to have tulips for the spring, any spring bulb or garlic, they should be planted the last week of September and the first week in October.
Fall Home Improvement
Fast, simple and amazing ‘do it yourself’ projects and you can get the whole family involved.” One of the easiest ways to update a room is by refreshing the floor, says Valencich. “Floors set the tone of the room,” she said. “A floor adds so much to the look and feel of the room.” Hard surfaces, including laminate, are once again dominating home flooring options. Laminate flooring is a popular option and the fastest growing flooring material around, according to HGTV, because of its practical benefits including durability, beauty and lasting wear. While the thought of installing your own floors can be daunting, Valencich assured homeowners that the installation of laminate floors is fairly simple. In fact, according to flooring industry experts, new floors can be installed in a weekend. “Laminate floors, like QuickStep, can be installed directly on top of existing wood, tile or vinyl flooring and Quick-Step’s Uni-
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clic design needs no glue, nails or staples during installation,” says Valencich. “Planks simply click together, for a lasting connection. Because of the ease of installation, older children can get involved with putting in new laminate floors.” Following these easy tips from Flooring Trends.com will make your room look like a million bucks. • To help reduce moisture, mold, mildew and a hollow sound when walked on, put down a quality underlayment first. • Order 7 to10 percent more product than you think you’ll need to allow for cuts and custom fits. • Order matching or coordinating molding and trim. “This finishing touch will set you apart,” says Valencich. • Acclimate your laminate floor products before installation. Put unopened cartons in the room they will be installed in for 72 to 96 hours. This is important if you live in a very dry or humid climate. • Make sure the concrete or
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wood subfloor is level before you fresh your sink area, and younger children can help with the removal start your installation. and replacement of the old faucet. Additional simple DIY projects Installing a new faucet can be an In addition to installing a new economical decision, too. “A new floor, there are other simple DIY faucet can help lower your water projects that will add to the beauty and energy costs,” said Valencich. • Go green. You don’t need to and comfort of your home. • Add attic insulation. If the install solar panels or a wind farm insulation in your attic is not up to go green and save money. There to par, the house can lose almost are several small things you can do 30 percent of its warm air. Prop- to help save the planet and your erly insulating an attic can save wallet, from sealing drafts and air anywhere from 10 to 30 percent ducts to installing a programmable off your monthly heating bill, U.S. thermostat. Caulk and spray foam News & World Report’s My Money are inexpensive and can be used to blog says. Batt insulation — rolled seal drafts, saving up to 20 percent fiberglass insulation — can often be on a monthly heating bill. Use a added for 70 cents to $1 per square programmable thermostat to turn down the heat while you’re at work foot. • Lighten up your bathroom. and to turn it back up right before The bathroom is a great place for you come home. To make floor selection even a do-it-yourself project. Try adding easier, Valencich has curated her can or recessed lighting. “Recessed lighting becomes part of the archi- own collection of Quick-Step “Designer’s Choice” floors, which can tecture,” says Valencich. • Replace that kitchen faucet. be viewed at quickstepstyle.com. Update your kitchen faucet to re-
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(ARA) — Call the family and grab the toolbox. Do-it-yourself projects can become a family affair this fall. According to a recent survey by economists at the University of California, there is a trend of parents looking for ways to spend even more time with their children. A DIY project offers the perfect activity mix for spending happy, productive, cost-effective time together to accomplish a common family goal. DIY projects can be as rewarding as the results: a brighter bathroom, an updated living room or a dramatic touch to any room in the house. The possibilities of easy home improvement projects are seemingly endless. “Improving and updating your home doesn’t have to be a chore,” said Erinn Valencich, a Los Angeles-based interior designer and blogger for HGTV’s Design Happens. “You don’t have to renovate to create a big impact; just a few small changes will do the trick
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Fall Home Improvement
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Ten cold-weather plumbing tips for homeowners (ARA) — That first chilly autumn morning is the perfect reminder that when winter arrives it can be sudden, often leaving homeowners unprepared for the plumbing problems associated with cold weather. The number of frozen pipe claims nearly tripled nationally from 2008 to 2009, to more than 26,000 claims. This hassle and extra expense is easily prevented with a couple hours worth of weekend chores or a quick call to your local plumber. People in northernmost states should take preventive action to protect their plumbing systems by late October. Southerners should follow by late November. Failure to prepare early might prove costly when pipes freeze, which is why the plumbing experts at RotoRooter recommend taking these winterization precautions early, when time is on your side, instead of waiting until cold weather arrives. These 10 tips that can save you a bundle are easily managed in between raking leaves and carving pumpkins.
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• Disconnect outside water hoses. If left connected during freezing temperatures, water in hoses will freeze and expand causing connecting faucets and pipes to freeze and break. • Inspect outside faucets. If dripping or leaking, make the necessary repairs or call a plumber before a freeze. • If your home is equipped with interior shut-off valves leading to outside faucets, close them and drain water from the pipes. • Cover outside faucets using an inexpensive faucet insulation kit. • Insulate pipes in unheated areas. Apply heat tape or thermostat-controlled heat cables around exposed pipes. • Make sure your furnace is set no lower than 55 degrees during the winter to prevent pipes from freezing. Note that when pipes freeze, water pressure builds causing cracks, whether the pipe is made of plastic, copper or steel. Even a tiny crack can unleash 250 gallons of water in a single day. • Your water heater works harder
during winter months. Drain corrosioncausing sediment from the tank, which reduces energy efficiency if it’s not removed. • Set water heater thermostat to 120 degrees for optimum performance without risk of scalding. • Clear any leaves and debris from roof gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage throughout the winter season. • Inspect and clean sump pit. Remove any rocks and debris from pit then dump a bucket of water into the sump pit to test the pump. If it turns on and pumps water out then turns itself off, it is operating properly. Visit www.RotoRooter.com/plumbing-basics to view an instructional video on winter plumbing preparation and what to do in the event that a pipe does burst. Become a fan on Facebook to stay up-to-date on plumbing tips for every season.
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Fall Home Improvement
September 24, 2011
Easy ways to create a year-round oasis in your backyard (ARA) — When winter approaches, do you stow the grill and cover the patio furniture, wishing there was some way you could continue to enjoy your outdoor living space all year? If so, you’re not alone. More homeowners are seeking function and efficiency from their outdoor living spaces, according to a recent survey by the American Society of Landscape Architects. Demand is growing to make outdoor spaces unique and usable year-round. Experts say one of the first ways to create this personal year-round oasis, is by bringing the indoors outside. “A great outdoor space serves as an extension of your home,” said Dan Berger, expert landscape designer, HGTV.com contributor and owner of LandPlan Landscaping in Pleasanton, Calif. “When planned properly, your backyard can provide you extra square footage of living space and serve as an inviting retreat throughout the year.” Berger offered some design hints to help turn your backyard living space into a multifunctional, multi-season oasis:
Define your space with a base
“You need to define your space based on function,” Berger said. “Once outside you need to feel cozy, enclosed within your new space while oriented to other rooms within your house and yard.” You can start with an existing porch, deck or patio, or build new ones, to establish boundaries for your space. Consider how you will use it — for living, dining or entertaining — and include features that will make the space easy and efficient for those intended uses.
hot outdoor living trend. “I always like to use natural materials as they just make me feel more connected to nature and more relaxed,” said Berger. Natural, organic, eco-friendly materials create a warm, inviting feel and are better for the environment. Fortunately, some tried-and-true materials like Western Red Cedar are spot-on with this trend. This versatile material holds a finish for an extended period of time or weathers beautifully naturally, making it a green choice for everything from decks to flower boxes and furniture. You can learn more about Western Red Cedar and locate a retailer or distributor in your area, by visiting www.wrcla.org.
Add dimension
Pergolas, gazebos and trellises add height and dimension to your outdoor environment, and can enhance the feeling of privacy whether in an outdoor kitchen or entertainment space. Consider building outdoor walls to help achieve that feeling of privacy, coziness and orientation. Explore walls made of real wood, rock or fabric. For extra detail and shade, drape a thin veil of papyrus or other vine over a pergola to create an intimate lounging area. Consider adding a tall plant in the corner or edge of the deck to balance the space and add height. During the holiday season, wrap tall plants with string lights to brighten the space. For more how to tips, visit “WRCLA’s Channel” on YouTube.
Simplify the installation
Choose materials that are easy to install over alternative, composite building prodUse natural materials that compliment ucts. Durable materials last longer by avoiding the outdoors the damaging effects of mold and mildew, Eco-chic — materials that are environmentally friendly and beautiful — remains a and can save you money long-term. They
are also lighter than man-made products, making it easier to design and create an ideal space. Instead of spending the last days of summer fixing material that splits, breaks or crumbles, you’ll have more time to relax in your outdoor oasis.
Update seasonally
As the seasons change, so should the look of your outdoor accessories and furnishings. Berger recommended decorating your outdoor rooms as you would inside. Add holiday decorations in the winter and pictures to your walls in the spring. From summer barbecues to enjoying fall colors or even gathering around the fire pit after the big football game, select accessories and furnishings that will facilitate
year-round use. “The most important thing to remember is to have fun,” Berger said. “Enjoy turning your plain backyard into the outdoor oasis of your dreams. Take your time and make choices that are right for you and your family, and you will enjoy the space for many years to come.”
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Fall Home Improvement
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Increase your home value, enhance your curb appeal
(ARA) — Whether you want to prepare your outdoor spaces for entertaining or you’re trying to make a great first impression on home buyers, now is the time to get the outside looking great. From fixing up the deck on the front porch to adding some colorful flowers to the landscaping, there are plenty of elements to make your home look more inviting. Start by determining your home’s best exterior features, and then assess some improvements that you can tackle on your own and get the biggest bang for your buck. Here are some simple ways to help boost your curb appeal: COPY
much dirt can accumulate and cause a porch. Consider a visit to second-hand dingy, dull appearance. shops or garage sales; you never know when a fresh coat of paint can make one man’s trash another man’s treasure. Spruce up landscaping Take pride in your front yard and make sure to keep up with regular lawn Prep your deck maintenance. This could mean adding The exterior of your home doesn’t some new shrubs, plants or flowers to the stop at the front yard — make sure it house, but start by fixing up and trimming looks inviting all the way around. Start down all existing yard features. Consider by prepping the deck and applying a new lining walkways with an attractive fence coat of wood stain to enhance and beauor adding a splash of color with potted tify, while protecting your investment plants or bright flowers. A few garden for the future. The Flood brand of wood fix-ups can go a long way to improve an care products provides a complete line outsider’s first impression of your home. — from prepping and cleaning to stainAD ing and sealing — to help you get the job Clean up clutter done and make your deck the place to be. Add freshEMAIL featuresALSO) NSTRUCTIONS READ ATTACHED Getting rid(PLEASE of clutter and scrubbing There are plenty of projects that can If it’s in the budget, hit up a local should Pioneer-Intercom be the first steps in home make 17, a huge difference and garden store to editionfind some Sept SIZED down FORgrime Wadena Hunting & Fishing 2011, and to improve the giving your home’s exterior a fresh new simple products to enhance existing ele- look of your home without requiring you Home Improvement edition any Septunused 24, 2011 glow. Start by removing ments. Maybe it’s a new mailbox, trendy to spend a fortune on remodeling. Get items or dead plants from the yard. Clean yard decor, or even a shiny new fixture a head start on a few of these weekend out the gutters and consider power wash- for the front door. You can also add a projects. Your home just might be the ing the front of the house. It might not couple pieces of furniture to create a envy of all your neighbors this summer. look dirty, but you’d be amazed at how more welcoming atmosphere to the front
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September 24, 2011
Fun, surprising cost-saving home improvements (ARA) — Who wouldn’t like to save money on utility bills this winter? But have you ever considered some of the more common energy-efficient home improvements — like insulating your hot water heater or replacing incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents — and thought “dullsville”? Sometimes the act of saving money just isn’t fun enough on its own. Fortunately, you can make home improvements that will trim your utility bills and boost your home’s appeal at the same time. Here are four fun home improvements that are surprisingly energy efficient as well: 1. Buy a new dishwasher — or clothes washer. Older appliances were not only built to be less energy efficient, they can lose what little efficiency they had as they age. If your appliances are more than 10 years old, they likely use more energy and water than newer models, especially new models that are Energy Star qualified. Dishwashers purchased before 1994 use an additional 10 gallons or more of water per cycle than a new Energy Star qualified model, according to EnergyStar.gov. And
if you don’t have a dishwasher at all, don’t think of buying one as just a luxury. Energy Star says you’ll save 5,000 gallons of water and knock $40 per year off your utility bills if you give up washing dishes by hand — not to mention 230 hours of your time. 2. Beautify your bathroom — kitchens and baths sell homes, but they’re also the rooms where the most water gets used and wasted. Old fixtures and faucets are among the top water-wasting culprits in a home. You can conserve water by turning off the tap when you brush your teeth, but that water savings goes down the drain if the toilet runs
constantly when you leave the room. Replacing leaky fixtures can reap significant water savings. Energy Star said a leaky faucet can waste gallons of water. Just one drip per second can waste up to 1,661 gallons of water in a year, according to EnergyStar.gov. You can also conserve water by installing a low-flow showerhead, which can save you as much as 5 gallons of water during a 10-minute shower. Many manufacturers now offer stylish, waterefficient faucets and showerheads. 3. Let the sun shine in — A venting skylight is a fun way to fill your home with nourishing natural light and passive ventilation, but did you know it’s also energy efficient? Installing a venting skylight can help you lower your electric bill by reducing your dependency on artificial light and electric fans. Natural light has been tied to a host of health benefits, including improving mood. A skylight not only enhances the energy efficiency of your home, it adds decorating flair and could make you feel better about living there. They’re also relatively low-cost when it
comes to “luxury” home improvements. You can get an Energy Star qualified “No Leak Skylight” from Velux for about $1,000 per unit for a remote-controlled electric venting model that closes automatically should it rain. Log on to www.veluxusa.com to find a local installer for a customized cost estimate. 4. Install a fireplace — Zone heating the areas of your home where you spend the most time can reduce your home heating bill by 20 to 40 percent, according to the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association. Installing an energy-efficient fireplace or a stove is a great, appealing way to zone heat the rooms you use the most. What’s more, this type of heating can be “greener,” if you use renewable fuels like cord wood, pellets or other plant-derived materials in your high-efficiency stove or fireplace. As for the fun quotient, it’s hard to top a fireplace for a home improvement that adds warmth and appeal to a room. Saving money can be doubly exciting, when you opt for energy-efficient home improvements that also enhance enjoyment of your home.
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Vehicles shown with optional accessories. Avoid operating Polaris RANGERs on paved surfaces or public roads. Riders and passengers should always wear helmets, eye protection, protective clothing, and seat belts. Always use cab nets. Drivers of RANGER vehicles must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license. Warning: ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Avoid operating Polaris ATVs on paved surfaces or public roads. Riders and passengers should wear helmets, eye protection, protective clothing and seat belts. Polaris adult ATV models are for riders aged 16 and older. Be sure to take a safety training course. For safety training information in the U.S., call the SVIA at (800) 887-2887, see your dealer, or call Polaris at (800) 342-3764. In Canada, see your local dealer. ©2010 Polaris Industries Inc. 628785
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Fall Home Improvement
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Bathroom design updates help homeowners age in place (ARA) — From humanity’s first steps on the moon to the rise of nanotechnology, baby boomers have witnessed significant changes in our world. And true to their forever-young mentality, boomers refuse to make sacrifices as they adapt their environment to meet evolving needs as they age. By 2030, the U.S. Administration on Aging predicts, the number of Americans older than 65 will top 72 million. The concept of aging in place — adapting one’s home to better fit changing physical abilities — is more relevant than ever. Simple and proactive updates in key areas, such as the kitchen and bath, can offer extra assistance to stay safe and independent at home. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among those 65 and older, and most occur in the bathroom. If you or a loved one is thinking about staying at home as you age, consider these bathroom upgrades to improve safety and accessibility:
Update tubs and showers
Stepping over a bathtub wall can be a risk for anyone with mobility issues. Although showers can eliminate the step-over risk, the threat of slipping and falling remains. For a generation who grew up taking baths, continuing to enjoy that comfort and experience is important. Much to consumers’ frustration, the institutional nature of walk-in tubs required bathers to give up aesthetics, sacrifice the comfort of a lounging position, and lose the indulgent experience of whirlpool jets and other hydrotherapy options.
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The Kohler Elevance Rising Wall bath offers a safe and stylish solution. With the comfort of traditional bathing and security of a step-in tub, bathers enter when the wall is lowered and raise the wall with minimal effort (less than 5 pounds of force). The optional BubbleMassage offers a more relaxing soak, and built-in grab bars provide extra stability and support. After the bath, the tub drains in less than two minutes. Showers and tubs of any type should be fitted with grab bars. Modern designs, such as the Kohler Belay hand rail, marry functionality and aesthetics to ensure homeowners don’t have to sacrifice style or safety.
Consider mobility issues
Decreased mobility is often a part of the aging process. Replacing a traditional 14- to 15-inch toilet with a taller 17- to 19inch Comfort Height model can significantly improve ease of use. Just as grab bars are vital in the shower or tub, firmly anchored grab bars can provide additional support near the commode. Those with arthritic hands may struggle with knobs on faucets and doors. Replacing knob-style faucet handles and round doorknobs with sleek lever-style handles can help ease use. Manufacturers like Kohler offer a range of designs that reflect the latest design trends while making life easier. While aging brings a change in ability for many people, transforming the bathroom into a relaxing, accommodating space makes it easier to age in place safely and gracefully.
DUAL FUEL A proven record for energy efficiency
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Fall Home Improvement
September 24, 2011
Dealing with disaster: Are you ready?
628892
(ARA) — Disaster can happen quickly and without warning. Would you and your family be ready in the event of an earthquake, fire, flood, hurricane or tornado? “Planning makes a big difference in coping with disaster,” said Charles Valinotti, senior vice president of insurer QBE. “The better prepared you are, the better you can cope in the aftermath of an emergency.” Fire and medical are the two most common emergencies, Valinotti said, so it’s important to teach children to call 9-1-1 or if you don’t live in a 9-1-1 service area, to post emergency numbers by your home phone. Cellphones should contain up-to-date contact numbers so emergency personnel can get hold of family members if you’re unable to. Here are other tips to help prepare you to deal with disaster: • Put together an emergency plan. Meet with your family to discuss the various emergencies that could happen and what should be done in each case. Valinotti suggested developing an emergency communication plan if family members are separated during floods, storms or other disasters. If you have to evacuate your home, plan several escape routes in case roads are blocked or closed. Practice your plan and update it each year. • Hold your own annual inspection. Each year, take a close look at your home to identify potential hazards that could cause injury or damage in a disaster or weather-related emergency. “Anything that can fall, break, move or cause a fire is a hazard,” Valinotti said. He recommended securing your water heater and tall or heavy furniture, moving heavy items to lower shelves, and installing locks on cabinet doors. • Be prepared year-round. Valinotti recommends keeping a disaster supplies kit — con-
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September 24, 2011
Fall Home Improvement
Page 9
Countertops and sinks: Smart, affordable upgrades that remake your kitchen (ARA) — Kitchen remodel — two words that when strung together often evoke images of a gutted room, endless dust, a major investment, not to mention overdosing on takeout while the cooking space is out of commission. Such experiences may be a part of a major kitchen renovation, but smart updates can create a big impact with less money, time, and drama. Just one or two significant changes paired with smaller enhancements can give your space a fresh look. Have your dingy countertops and sink seen better days? This is an easy fix for the time- and budget-conscious. Modern countertop options abound, from timeless granite to the industrial allure of stainless steel, and durable standbys of cement or quartz. Once you’ve committed to countertop replacement, shop
around for a new sink. Some countertop merchants may offer you a new sink with your purchase. While freebies are appealing, ask yourself if the sink given gratis matches the vision for your space. Your sink should be in sync with your lifestyle, so keep the following points in mind: The depth, shape and number of bowls should depend on how you work in your kitchen. If you hand wash bulky pots and pans, opt for the popular single-basin sink with deep dimensions. Multi-taskers will appreciate multiple bowls. Some newer styles offer three bowls - two standard-sized basins and a smaller third one to accommodate a disposal. Utilitarian as the sink may be, its design is a big contributor to the kitchen’s aesthetic, so weigh this factor carefully. Apron-front sinks,
also known as farmhouse sinks, can evoke a period-style look with their panel design. Until recently, installation required removing the countertop and building custom cabinetry below to accommodate the new sink’s dimensions. The KOHLER Whitehaven selftrimming apron-front kitchen sink makes installation much easier. It’s available in two apron sizes: A conventional 9-inch apron model (requiring a custom base cabinet), and a 7-inch apron, an ideal retrofit option for homeowners wanting the farmhouse look and the roomy 9-inch-deep basin without the cabinetry replacement. Made of durable Kohler Enameled Cast Iron, the sink is available in 16 colors, including much-loved neutrals and bold designer hues. Visit www.kohler.com to learn more.
When it comes to updating your sink and countertops, and you’ll kitchen for a fraction of the cost of achieve a whole new look for an a full renovation, toss out the old affordable cost. adage of doing “everything but the kitchen sink.” Start with the
Tips for keeping your home healthy (ARA) — Maintaining a healthy home is critical for your family’s welfare — especially now as the weather cools and you begin to spend more time indoors. Applying a few simple solutions now will ensure your indoor living environment is safe and healthy for seasons to come.
to seal up their homes and spend more time inside, which traps moisture and humidity - both significant contributors to indoor mold growth. Maintain healthy indoor humidity levels by venting bathrooms and clothes dryers and using an exhaust fan while cooking. Install an air humidifier to provide year-round control of your indoor moisture level, and keep your home at 50 percent humidity or lower to reduce the chance for mold growth.
Reduce toxins
Watch out for CO
Less desirable weather may make fall and winter seem like an ideal time to tackle your indoor painting projects. However, you need to be mindful of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in many interior paints and finishes. VOCs are one of the biggest threats to indoor air quality; they include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have both shortand long-term health effects. For indoor jobs, select paint with low or gens including dust, mildew, pet dander and pollen from the no VOCs to keep your air fresher. Additionally, some houseplants such as ivy and gerbera daisies air you breathe. For example, the AccuClean (TM) System by American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning removes can help to naturally remove VOCs from your indoor air. up to 99.98 percent of the allergens from your filtered air, so even if it’s allergy season outdoors, your indoor air is crisp Clean your indoor air Ragweed and pollen will trigger allergy symptoms for and clean. millions of people this fall; however, the worst allergy triggers are often found inside the home. Installing a whole- Prevent mold During the cooler fall and winter months, people tend home air filtration system can help to remove indoor aller-
Protect your indoor living environment from carbon monoxide or CO by installing CO detectors or alarms throughout your home. This fall, make sure your home’s heating system, including items such as a furnace or heat pump, vents and chimney, are inspected and serviced by a professional contractor. And, if there is a fireplace in your home, open the damper before lighting a fire to help prevent the buildup of potentially poisonous gases inside of your home.
Keep a seasonal routine
Most homeowners already know it’s important to test their smoke alarms on a monthly basis, but how often do you change the alarm’s batteries? One way to keep track of alarm maintenance is to make battery changing a seasonal activity. For example, beginning this fall, replace the batteries in your smoke alarms (and CO detectors), every time you reset your clocks. By taking these simple steps now, you’ll create a safer and healthier home, allowing your family to relax and enjoy all the delights the fall season has to offer - both outdoors and indoors.
Page 10
Fall Home Improvement
September 24, 2011
Energy-efficient home enhancements for comfort, savings and style
Reduce air infiltration
Between framing and routing for wiring and plumbing, hundreds of seams, gaps, and holes exist in a typical home, which let air in and out. Forty percent of a home’s energy is lost due to this air infiltration, according to the Department of Energy. In fact, these gaps in an average-size home could fill nearly 200,000 basketballs with air every 24 hours. A cost-effective way to address the issue is with proper air sealing and insulation. For example, Owens Corning EnergyComplete Air Sealing System seals the gaps in the home’s exterior walls before installing fiberglass insulation for thermal protection. The system can reduce air infiltration by up to 70 percent in new homes and can lead to a savings of up to 33 percent in heating and cooling bills for some homeowners. When considering home insulation, also
moisture and hot air away from the living space. Eight out of 10 homes in the United States have asphalt shingle roofs, resulting in millions of tons of potential waste that could end up in landfills each year as homes are re-roofed. Recycling a home’s old shingles is equivalent to recycling a year’s worth of household waste. Visit Owens Corning Roofing & Asphalt’s shingle recycling program to learn how to choose a contractor that will recycle your roof.
Close the window to air leakage
look for solutions that keep the environment in mind. “Every pound of glass fiber thermal insulation saves 12 times more energy each year than was originally used to produce it,” said Frank O’Brien-Bernini, chief sustainability officer for Owens Corning. “In fact, our new EcoTouch insulation uses a minimum of 30 percent post-consumer recycled content and 50 percent total recycled content, as certified by Scientific Certification Systems.”
Revisit the roof
Re-roof your home with ENERGY STAR-rated shingles that use granule technology to reflect the sun’s rays and help keep roofs cooler, resulting in more comfortable and energy-efficient living spaces. In some areas, these shingles may also qualify for tax credits. Owens Corning Duration Cool Shingles help save energy without sacrificing beauty. Additionally, a roofing system that includes proper ventilation helps keep
A complete solution from the floor to the roof
Whether you are making minor changes or undertaking major renovations at home, enhancing your home with sustainable methods will not only contribute to the overall health and wellbeing of your family and community, but deliver long term savings. “Homeowners should realize that they can enhance their home’s function and style, while simultaneously saving money and the planet,” O’Brien-Bernini says. “We share a common desire with our customers to provide sustainable, innovative and quality solutions that improve homeowner’s lives and our environment.” Check out Newsweek magazine’s annual Green Rankings for a list of companies committed to sustainability through the products they provide, as well as through their operations.
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(ARA) — Conserving energy at home can be as simple as swapping incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or unplugging the computer when it is not in use. However, a home built for energy efficiency can have an even more significant impact on your family’s energy use. Taking a look at your home from top to bottom and wall to wall can uncover ways to maximize energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 40 percent of global energy consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions come from the world’s homes and buildings. Although energy efficient upgrades and home renovations can seem more costly upfront, the investment can help save money and energy in the long term.
September 24, 2011
Fall Home Improvement
Page 11
Five ways to finish your outdoor projects like a pro (ARA) — What do those guys on the landscaping shows have that you don’t have? (Besides their own TV show, that is.) They have all the right tools to make their job easier, whether they’re building a deck, clearing brush to make way for a new patio or digging a hole for a backyard pond. Fortunately, you don’t need the budget of a television landscaping celebrity or the storage space of a production studio to get your hands on the perfect tools for your doit-yourself project. Just rent a compact utility loader with a few attachments, use it to do the work faster and easier, and return it when you’re done. Contractors have been using compact utility loaders — the landscaping equivalent of a Swiss army knife — for years. And thanks to renting, homeowners can use the same machine without having to buy one themselves. These multi-purpose units do the work of several different tools with a simple change of attachments, saving time and substantial effort compared to doing tasks by hand. The Toro Dingo is one example of a compact utility loader that’s especially useful for residential applications, since it’s easy to use, reliable and compact enough to fit into tight spots. Here are five ways you can use a compact utility loader and the right attachments to help ensure your outdoor projects have professional-looking results:
Digging/filling trenches
Digging or filling a trench is another labor-intensive soil-moving chore that can be much easier with the right equipment. A loader with a trencher attachment can quickly create a trench, even in the hardest soil or clay. And once you’ve placed the irrigation pipe or other material, you can use the trench filler attachment to fill and close the trench.
Lifting and carrying material
rocks to clear away, a loader with a bucket or grapple rake attachment can make the job much easier. You’ll be able to carry more debris with every load — and with a lot less effort — than pushing a wheelbarrow. Need to remove a stump? A loader with a stump grinder attachment is another big time-saver. Bottom line: If your project involves multiple tasks, renting a compact utility loader and the appropriate attachments can be a great alternative to renting multiple tools. You can find out more about the Dingo at www.Toro.com/dingo. The professionals at your local rental store can help you identify the right tool to rent for your project. To find a rental store near you, visit www.rentalhq.com. Outdoor projects don’t have to be backbreaking work. You just need the right tools for the job. A compact utility loader can help make your DIY project easier — and ensure those TV guys have nothing on you when it comes to creating a great outdoor environment.
Need to move a load of stone, piles of dirt or lots of lumber? Lifting and carrying heavy loads by hand is not only time-consuming and difficult; it can be downright dangerous. For instance, it can lead to back strain — not to mention mashed fingers and toes if you accidentally drop what you’re carrying. Instead, consider renting a comDigging holes pact utility loader with a bucket, adjustable Many outdoor projects involve digging a forks, multi-purpose tool or grapple rake athole, whether you’re building a deck or fence tached to do the heavy lifting for you. or preparing to install a fish pond. Set aside the shovel and post-hole digger, and use up debris the loader’s auger attachment - available in Cleaning 6 4have 0 Ebrush, & 5 2 4tree 0 Elimbs P OorW E R 2 S K I D L O A D E R S If 4you small widths from a 6-inch bit up to a 30-inch bit. These powerful tools significantly reduce digging time, allowing you to move quickly Get the raw power your operation requires from the new past this basic first step for many projects.
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Virtually every outdoor building project requires you to start out with level ground. A level surface will make gardening chores easier, ensure a good base beneath a patio or deck, and protect landscaping from erosion and run-off. But manually leveling uneven ground can be very labor-intensive. A loader with a leveler, tiller, utility blade or soil cultivator attachment greatly reduces time and labor, and allows you to achieve smoother, more even ground.
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Page 12
Fall Home Improvement
September 24, 2011
Take your home from summer to fall
white tones to fall tones and colors. Choose earth tones such as reds and browns to bring depth and warmth. Navy blue can also be a great color to add in fall that can transition to winter. Not completely committed to bringing that much color into your living room? Change your pillows or throw blankets to develop an accented atmospheric change. Take a look at your window treatments
and consider a heavier fabric with possible prints. “Paisley is coming back this fall.” Aguerri-Gomez said. “Use paisley prints on curtains or pillows, or venture out and buy a paisley arm chair that can nestle nicely into an unused corner in your bedroom or living room.” Elizabeth Polish, an Interior Design Instructor at The Art Institute of New York City and owner of Elizabeth Polish Design, said bird prints are making their way into homes via lampshades and carpets this fall. Keep the cold away by adding rugs. Overlapping rugs is a trend that can bring contrasting elements together, while unifying sections of a room. Aguerri-Gomez recommends taking a bamboo or wicker rug and overlapping it with a more classical rug. “It’s a great way to bring contrast, color and texture to the room.” Aguerri-Gomez predicted that mustard will be a key color this fall. Add a mustard table runner and change up your dinnerware and placemats to bring your table from light and airy to warm and welcoming. Don’t want to part with the lemons and limes nestled
inside your glass vase as table decor? Try compromising and replace the citrus with artichokes and pomegranates for a fall final touch. For those that like to have feng shui elements in their home, you’ll be happy to know that gold is making a comeback. Try mercury or gold canisters, vases and accents. In the past, gold and mercury were reserved for the holidays or special celebrations, but now you can bring them out earlier to bring that shiny pop the room will need. The last touch to bringing your home from summer to fall is mood lighting. Polish recommends utilizing energy efficient LED lights and bulbs. Because you’ve most likely added thicker curtains to keep the cold out, make sure key areas are lit. Where you don’t need too much light, go for the dimming effect. “Change your lampshades if you can’t dim your lights. Make your living space as cozy as you can while saving energy at the same time,” Polish said. To learn more about The Art Institutes schools visit www.artinstitutes.edu.
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(ARA) — Bringing your home from summer to fall is simpler than you think. It all begins with taking inventory of your home to determine which nonessential items you can eliminate or switch and where you can add. “Start with anything fabric,” said Maria AguerriGomez, Academic Dean of The Art Institute of Michigan-Troy, a branch campus of The Art Institute of Michigan. “You can change your couch covers, pillows and your throw blankets, add a duvet to your bed, change your window treatment or bathroom towels; or simply add a table runner to bring fall into your home without breaking your budget.” Take couch covers from creamy and off-
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