Aubuchon At Home - Summer 2013

summer 2013 • FREE

At Home over

$45

in Coupon Savings

Create

INSIDE!

The

Perfect Backyard getaway

grill options What’s Right for Dinner

10 tools

for garden upkeep

Orange & “green”

Solar Energy Project In a continued effort to reduce our carbon footprint and build upon ongoing “green” initiatives, Aubuchon Hardware and Nexamp, Inc. completed the construction of a 548 kilowatt (kW) solar photovoltaic (PV) project. The project, which began on August 28th, 2012, took 100 days to complete and is expected to produce approximately 600,000 kWh of electricity annually, meeting almost 70% of the electricity needs of the Aubuchon Hardware Distribution Center in Westminster, MA. That’s enough electricity to meet the consumption demands of nearly 80

Aubuchon Hardware Environmental Sustainable Recycling Programs Reduce • Reuse • Recycle n Cardboard

from the Distribution Center (DC) and Aubuchon Hardware stores

n Plastic

shrink wrap from DC and stores

n Fluorescent

and CFL bulbs from DC, stores and Customers.

Customers can bring their bulbs in to be recycled, free of charge.

n Office n All

paper waste from DC

Metals from DC and stores

n Wood: wood

pallets, scrap wood, etc. from DC and stores

n Electronics: computers/printers

from DC and stores

average size New England homes, eliminating almost 450 tons of CO2 emissions each year!

The project is comprised of 1,896 roof mounted Suntech 290-watt solar modules (or panels), a Solectria 500 kW inverter, and uses a PanelClaw roof mounting system.The solar modules generate DC electricity, which is fed down to the inverter and converted into AC electricity for use in the building and the grid.The inverter and the mounting system are manufactured locally in Massachusetts, and the system was designed and installed by Nexamp, Inc. of North Andover, MA.

By taking advantage of the solar policies and incentives available from the Federal Government and Massachusetts, approximately 35% of the nearly $1.9M investment will be recovered in the project’s first year of operation alone. In addition to significant electricity savings, Aubuchon Hardware will benefit from the sale of Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) generated by the project, as well as various state and federal tax incentives.

Charlie Aubuchon,Vice President of Distribution Center Operations, who oversaw the installation of the rooftop solar array, expects conservatively, to realize more than $2.3M in electricity savings over the first 25 years of operation. He went on to comment that, “there are many unknowns, depending on how many sunny days we have. These panels produce the most power on sunny days and the more the weather cooperates the sooner the project will pay for itself.” The expected lifetime of this type of solar PV system is 30+ years, potentially offering substantial additional savings. n

Contents summer 2013

4

10 a Perfect Color

to have your door primed but if you’re not up to that , drape a white sheet or drop ver your door if it’s already a his will eliminate any existual color interference as you he process of evaluating your .

Pages 2 - 4, 12, 14: Used with Permission. © Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

round, and consider the colors exist around the door. Is there lots of trim, a nearby garden w? Any existing color you ry over to support your color n will help you to feel more nt, especially if you’re pushing lor comfort zone to the limit.

rst with color chips, to narwn your selections to a few, hich, you can paint larger mples on to cardboard. Hang at the door, and take a look the colors behave over the of a few days. When do you On a sunny day? A rainy you can’t make a choice, add olor references from around use to create context. Here, a reen shutter, representative of barn on the property, helps e the final choice feel right.

Scan this with e decided on a color but are your still feeling a little Smartphone wobbly about it, ask your paint to take specialist to tint the primer as near this to your color se- issue lection as possible. wherever Even if it isn’t a perfect match, you go! you’ll be more

In this issue!

2

2

Create a Backyard Getaway Turn your backyard dreams into reality with these helpful tips and ideas.

4

Top Gardening Tools: Using the right tools can make garden chores easier and more enjoyable. Here are the must-haves.

My Kaywa QR-Code

6 Benjamin Moore’s Guide to Staining

static.hardwarestore.com/media/qr/summer13/code...

than half way there in your decisionmaking, and you won’t have wasted the priming effort.

Best of all, this step will usually convince anxious color pickers that their color is exactly, perfectly and fabulously right!

Your Deck: Thinking about staining your deck this summer? Be sure to check out our handy guide before you get started.

14

8

Gilmour’s Watering Tips: Keep your lawn and garden in tip-top shape this summer with our essential watering guide.

10

Grilling Fundamentals: Find out what type of grill best suits your needs—and get expert grilling tips to help make your next grill-out a success.

14 Welcome Home to Color: Instantly update your curb appeal by repainting your front door. Lu’s tips make it easy!

20

Pet of the Month: Does your pet have what it takes? Find out how you and your pet could win a $50 Aubuchon gift card.

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SUMMER 2013 • AUBUCHON AT HOME

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summer 2013 • Aubuchon at home

1

10 SUMMER guide

Ways to Create a

Backyard

Getaway

Try these ideas to turn your backyard into a relaxing outdoor oasis

1. Dress Up Your Deck

Make your deck a destination by defining different activity zones within the space. Multiple levels carve out spaces for dining and relaxing on this deck.

A pergola covered with luxurious vines and an abundance of plants in containers bring the surrounding garden up onto the deck and help blend the structure into the landscape.

2. Create a PicturePerfect Patio

A patio can be a hot slab of concrete baking in the sun—or it can be a welcoming extension of the house, calling you outdoors to enjoy cool breezes and fresh air. With a little planning, you can make your patio a comfortable seasonal room.

Patios are usually surfaced with brick or stone. If you opt for concrete, consider adding texture and color to imitate stone for a more natural look.

Design the patio to be an extension of your home’s architecture, and use planting beds, container gardens, and weatherproof furniture to decorate the outdoor space.

2

Aubuchon at home • Summer 2013

A gazebo is an outdoor room in its own right and offers a protected spot for dining, cooking, or relaxing.

3. Add an Outdoor Kitchen

If you grill at least twice a week from spring through fall and if you love eating outdoors, you need an outdoor kitchen.

You don’t need a fancy grill, but a countertop for food prep and conveniences such as closed storage and a separate side burner will greatly enhance your outdoor cooking experience. Add a refrigerator and

sink to make preparation and cleanup even easier.

4. Ensure Privacy

Your outdoor room will feel more like an oasis if it has a sense of enclosure.

Fences and garden walls ensure privacy for patios, but you can also use lattice, pergolas, and landscaping to define outdoor spaces and screen views of neighboring houses. hardwarestore.com

walking around the tub.

Bear in mind that a hot tub full of water may weigh 2 tons, so it will need a foundation independent of the deck’s foundation.

9. Plan Outdoor Lighting

TK in your backyard paradise. Use them to create focal points, separate areas according to function, or provide transitions from one area to another.

6. Create Shady Spots

Even sun worshippers welcome a little shade.You’ll enjoy your deck or patio more if you can provide relief from the sun. Choices for providing shade include mature trees, umbrellas, retractable awnings, or even pergolas and arbors planted with vines.

7. Furnish for Comfort and Durabililty

You have more choices than ever when it comes to furnishing your outdoor rooms. Wrought iron and cast iron, wrought or cast aluminum, and traditional wood are classic options. New synthetic, weatherproof patio furniture and fabrics are also now available, offering the same style and comfort as anything you would have inside your home.

There are even weatherproof floor lamps and table lamps that match their indoor cousins for stylish good looks.

8. Add a Hot Tub or Spa 5. Define Spaces with Outdoor Structures

A gazebo adds another level of luxury to your outdoor oasis. Whether attached to the deck, set near a pool, or planted in the landscape, a gazebo is an outdoor room in its own right and offers a protected spot for dining, cooking, or relaxing.

Pergolas, trellises, and arbors can also be used to define activity zones aubuchonathome.com

Aubuchon Hardware stocks thousands of items to help you transform your backyard.

For long, relaxing soaks at the end of the day, a hot tub or spa out on the deck is a must-have luxury. To determine the best location for the spa, consider privacy, access to the house, and whether you want the tub in sunshine or shade.

A typical round hot tub is 6 feet in diameter and takes up about 30 square feet. A rectangular tub requires about 48 square feet.You’ll also need additional room for sitting and

To enjoy your backyard getaway after the sun sets, include outdoor lighting.

At its most basic, this consists of porch lights that illuminate access to the house and provide ambient lighting.

For outdoor kitchens, you’ll need good task lighting over the grill and work areas. For the dining and conversation areas, candlelight, wallmount downlights, or dimmable electric lamps create a relaxed mood.

Steps and walkways should be illuminated for safety.

You can also use solar-powered accent lights or low-voltage lights to add drama and interest to the landscape and to highlight paths.

Combine a mix of lighting sources to make your backyard getaway a magical place after dark.

10. Layer on the Amenities

Fountains, fireplaces, and fire pits enhance the beauty and usefulness of your outdoor rooms.

Fountains add the soothing sound of trickling water and can serve as the focal point of an outdoor space.

Fireplaces make a natural focal point and can help define space and provide privacy for an outdoor room.

They’re also a starting point for an outdoor kitchen.

Fire pits, whether built-in or moveable, also serve to draw people together and can extend the usefulness of an outdoor living room into cooler weather.

Finally, accessorize your outdoor rooms with garden statuary, weatherproof art (such as plates, garden plaques, or decorative wrought iron), and pillows covered in weatherproof fabrics. These touches will turn an ordinary patio or deck into a welcoming, personal space for outdoor living. n Used with Permission. © Copyright 2013 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved. summer 2013 • Aubuchon at home

3

Gardening tips & tools

6. Garden Rake

Use a garden rake to dress and smooth out mulch or soil in your beds. Rake tines can simultaneously break up small clods of soil and corral stones and debris. Lightweight rakes, such as those made from aluminum, are easier for many gardeners to use.

7. Watering Hose

10 Top Tools for Maintaining Your Garden

A trowel is perfect for planting small plants.

The right gardening tools can make caring for your landscape a lot easier. Here are some of the best • By Justin W. Hancock

1. Shovel

A shovel is the number one tool in most gardeners’ sheds, and may be the most versatile. An angled blade makes the shovel ideal for moving piles of soil, sand, and other materials.

2. Gloves

Find everything you need for this season’s gardening at Aubuchon Hardware.

4

Leather or cotton gloves can help prevent blisters, and wide-cuffed or long gloves coated with nitrile or plastic protect your wrists and forearms when working with thorny plants. Latex or rubber gloves keep your hands dry. Select gloves with reinforced knuckles and padding in the palm. They’re more expensive, but do a better job of protecting your hands.

3. Trowel

A trowel is perfect for planting small plants. Most are available with sturdy handles and cupped metal blades with tapered tips. Some have serrated edges along the side of the blade, making them useful for cutting through small roots or other debris.

Aubuchon at home • Summer 2013

4. Garden Fork (Spading or Potato Fork)

The perfect tool for turning and aerating soil (especially clay); you can also use a garden fork to break up chunks of ground and to work organic matter and other amendments into the soil. Forks are ideal gardening tools to cope with buried roots or rocks. If you have tough soil, invest in a fork with heavy-duty tines so they don’t bend.

5. Garden Hoe

A hoe is perfect for cultivating soil and removing weeds. It’s also useful for breaking up soil clumps.Tilt it at an angle and the corner of the blade traces neat planting furrows in prepared soil.

Like shovels, most hoes work best if you sharpen the blades regularly.

A hose is indispensable for maintaining larger gardens. Choose a rubber or vinyl hose with several layers of mesh and sturdy connectors to ensure long life. The thicker the hose, the less likely it will be to kink. Though they cost more, professionals’ hoses are usually worth the money.

8. Sprinkler

Connect your sprinkler to a watering hose and you can give parts of your garden a deep soaking without having to make multiple trips with a watering can. Better yet, attach your sprinkler to an automatic timer, so it turns on and off on its own.

9. Wheelbarrow

Gardens generate a lot of debris the compost pile. And beds benefit from loads of organic matter and mulch. Garden wheelbarrows make these jobs much easier. Use a stable, two-wheeled cart with high sides for larger loads. And a wheelbarrow with two tires instead of one will be more balanced when full. Also, watch for wheelbarrows with pneumatic tires, which do not go flat.

10. Leaf Rake

The business end of a rake is a fan of flat, flexible tines made of metal, bamboo, plastic, or even rubber. Use a flexible rake to gather light debris in beds and lawns. Many newer rakes have ergonomically designed handles so you can use them without straining your back. n Used with Permission. © Copyright 2013 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

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Trust a True American

®

$3

off coupon See page 19

© 2013 Ames True Temper Company Proprietary Property

Deck Care

An odd collection of well-worn thriftshop brass, SITTING ATOP A FRESHLY PAINTED VINTAGE DRUM TABLE, is made lovely again with a few good coats of semi-gloss white paint.

Guide to

Staining Your Deck How To Begin

Aubuchon Hardware has a complete Benjamin Moore Paint & Stain store in every location.

6

Whether you are doing the job yourself or hiring a contractor, you should have a thorough understanding of the staining process. The following information offers some guidelines for preparing your home’s exterior wood surfaces for staining.

Timing

The best time to stain your home’s exterior deck is when temperatures are moderate (above 500F but below 950F), the humidity is low to average, and no rain is in the immediate forecast. Ideally, you should have three to four consecutive dry days prior to beginning any exterior staining project.

Aubuchon at home • Summer 2013

Tools For The Job

Alkyd or oil-based stains should be applied with natural-bristle brushes.

Synthetic-bristle brushes are ideal for latex stains. Speak to your Aubuchon Hardware Paint Specialist for advice on the right application methods and products for your project. Here are a few items to get you started: n Stain brushes or pad applicators n Stain mitt n Hose or power washer n Sandpaper n Rollers n Sprayer n Gloves n Paint scraper n Rags n Wire brush

Preparation

The most important step to ensure beautiful and long-lasting protection is proper surface preparation. About 95% of finish failures are due to improper preparation and/or applications.

Stains and finishes require a clean, sound surface free of dirt, dust, grease, mildew, loose wood fibers and mill glaze to ensure adequate penetration of the finish. Horizontal surfaces like decks and porches require more surface preparation and maintenance.

Remove as many items as you can (planters, hoses, outdoor furniture) and cover other items with drop cloths.

Examine the deck for surface wear, cracked boards and popped nails.

Make any necessary repairs before you

hardwarestore.com

stain your deck.

Visit aubuchonathome.com for more detailed information on how to prepare your new, uncoated, weathered, or previously coated wood deck.

Applying the Stain

Decks are often subjected to extreme environmental conditions (direct sun, cool damp shade, etc.) as well as heavy foot traffic. Proper care of your deck will help ensure the longevity of the finish.

Step 1: After properly preparing the wood, select an inconspicuous place on the actual wood you will be staining and test the stain to be sure you will be pleased with the final color results.

Step 2: Stain the vertical sections of the deck such as the rails and posts first, so that drips will not land on previously finished areas.

Step 3: Once vertical surfaces are complete, proceed to the deck surface. For deck boards, work twothree boards at a time to avoid lap marks. Don’t stop in the middle of the board, or you will risk developing lap marks. Make sure to wipe up any excess stain.

Deck Staining Tips n Don’t

let stain puddle on the surface of the deck. Use a brush to work the stain into the wood. n If you roll or spray, always back-brush.

n Stain

doesn’t stay mixed the same way paint does.You’ll need to stir the stain frequently during application. n To ensure proper stain penetration and even drying results, avoid applying stain in direct sunlight.

Follow-Up and Maintaining Your Finish

By function, your deck is a structure that requires a regular maintenance program. When it’s not being pelted by raindrops, it’s quite likely lying underneath a layer of snow or ice, soaking up the sun’s harsh UV rays or enduring heavy foot traffic.

Keep it looking great by cleaning it each spring. Next, assess whether the wood needs to be refinished as well. Decks fare best in dry, pleasant weather. They require recoating more often in harsh climates or when they are subject to heavy use.

As a general rule of thumb, plan to recoat a deck that has a transparent or semi transparent finish every 12-24 months and a solid finish every 24-36 months, depending on the severity of the climate and type of use. A seasonal evaluation of the surface, with appropriate maintenance, will keep your deck looking its best. n © 2013 Benjamin Moore & Co. Reproduced from Deck & Siding Project Guide. For more information, visit www.benjaminmoore.com

Deck Tips

There are a number of things to consider to protect and extend the life of your deck project. n Sweep

or blow leaves, pollen, standing water or particulate matter off the wood surface on a reqular basis.

This will help prevent staining and assure there is no breeding ground for mold or mildew.

n Decks

that have mold, mildew or staining should be cleaned.

n Excessive

moisture or ponding water will cause softening or peeling of the stain.

n Do

not place flowerpots or large objects directly on the deck.

n Do

not allow downspouts or gutters to drain directly onto the deck.

n Pulling

or dragging sharp or heavy objects across the deck may cause damage to the finish.

n Protected

areas will not weather as quickly as other areas. When refreshing with another coat of stain or clear coat, these areas may become darker or have a slightly higher sheen.

Ultimate durability Cutting edge technology provides a finish that outperforms the best alkyd stains on the market.

Watering 101 than sandy soil. Clay soil should be watered slowly but less frequently.

Loam type soil falls in between, holding water longer than sandy soil but not as long as heavy clay soils.

Let the soil dry between watering.

Roots will grow deeper looking for water below the surface as soil dries.

Roots need to absorb small amounts of oxygen from air spaces in dry soil and are warmed by the drying soil.

This also discourages weeds which are often shallow rooted.

Light watering produces shallow roots in the upper few inches of soil that are subject to rapid drying. In addition, many weeds have shallow roots that thrive on moisture near the surface.Too frequent watering produces wet areas susceptible to lawn diseases, insects and drown root damage.

Watering

Watering Tips For Outdoor Plants and Lawns

T

he signs of a well cared for yard are a green, weed-free lawn, healthy trees and healthy shrubs.They are an investment in the value of your property and should be protected.The question of how much to water and how often has no single answer. It depends on weather conditions, soil composition and the plants themselves.

Weather

On a hot, sunny day in mid-summer the average lawn uses 125 gallons of water per 1000 sq. ft. The same lawn on a cool cloudy day uses as little as 10 gallons of water. Mature trees can use up to 15 gallons of water per hour on a hot day. Any plant exposed to hot sun, low humidity and strong winds will evaporate large amounts of water that must be replaced from the soil or it will die. Grass is particularly susceptible since 85% of a grass plant’s bulk is water.

8

Aubuchon at home • Summer 2013

The Plants

A good drenching once or twice a week is better for your lawn than daily light sprinklings. Deep watering produces strong, deep root systems that can safely withstand drought.

This requires long thorough soaking of the soil, ideally to a depth of about a foot, but at least 6 to 8 inches. A steady stream of water will run off.

An even, intermittent sprinkling is best for deep penetration.

Soil Type

Coarse, sandy soil has large air spaces that quickly fill with water, but also lose water quickly to the subsoil requiring shorter, more frequent watering. Heavier clay or silt soil has numerous smaller spaces that absorb water slowly but hold more water

When Needed: Most lawns need 1 to 2 inches of water per week depending on water and soil conditions. Nature supplies water as rain or dew but sometimes does not supply what is needed. In dry areas, a regular watering of at least once a week or more is important (skipping days when it has rained heavily). During the more moderate spring and fall or in cooler wetter regions, look for signs that watering is needed. A slowing of the growth rate, changes in color or loss of resilience (footprints showing in the grass) are signs water is needed. Check the soil two to six inches below the surface. If the soil is dry and crumbles easily, it is time to water.

What Time Of Day: Early morning is best because water pressure is high, it is still cool so evaporation is low and seepage into the soil is best before the sun bakes the ground hard. Late afternoon is the next best time but be sure that it is early enough for the leaves to dry before nightfall. Night watering is not recommended because the lawn and other plants stay wet for a longer time promoting lawn diseases. Mid-day watering usually does not hurt anything but in the heat of the day a great deal of water is lost to evaporation before it soaks into the soil.

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How Much Water: If nature has not supplied water as rain, applying approximately 1 inch of water is a general rule of thumb. This will give deep penetration of the soil to a depth of six to eight inches. One inch of water or rain is equivalent to 623 gallons per 1000 sq. ft. Water should be applied no faster than the soil is able to absorb it. If water begins to run off before one inch is applied, stop sprinkling until it is absorbed and then resume.

How long will applying 1 inch of water take? This depends on the size hose, pressure and type of sprinkler being used. There are several methods for determining how much you are applying.

1. Do The Math: Find

the gallons per minute (GPM) flow rate of the sprinkler being used from the package of the manufacturer. Multiply the square footage to be watered by .62

gallons or 1 inch of water per square foot. Example: 1000 sq. ft. x .62 gal. = 620 gallons. This tells you how many gallons of water you need to apply to the lawn. Divide that number by the GPM of your sprinkler and you can figure how many minutes to water.

2. Collect The Water: Place a cup or glass in the middle of the area covered by your sprinkler, turn water on and watch the time. Measure water in the cup until 1 inch is collected. This is the time you need to sprinkle. The best accuracy is obtained if you use several containers at different places in the sprinkler’s coverage pattern and average the results.

3. Buy A Flow Timer: Often

called water timers, these units actually measure water flow. They are calibrated in 100 gallons and can be set from 100 to 1500 gallons to give you the water necessary for the square

footage covered by the sprinkler.

Use the formula in #1 to figure the gallons needed.

4. Test Soil: Test

the soil 6” or more below the surface to make sure it is dry. Turn on your sprinkler and periodically test the soil 6” down until the water has penetrated to that depth. Keep track of how long it took and use that as the time you need to water.

Know Your Lawn

In the end, the most important factor is knowing your soil type and average weather. Many areas will need more or less watering than recommended here.

Experiment with what works best in your area, keep good records and develop a regular watering schedule. n © 2013 Robert Bosch Tool Corporation.

Reproduced from website. For more information, visit www.gilmour.com

No matter the size or shape of your lawn, has a sprinkler to fit your needs.

OSCILLATING SPRINKLER • Coverage up to 3,500 sq. ft.

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IMPULSE SPRINKLER • Coverage up to 5,800 sq. ft.

• Provides full or partial coverage • Patented impulse arm saves water by eliminating back and side splash 279299

LARGE POLY HEAD PULSATING SPRINKLER • Coverage up to 8,500 sq. ft.

• Trip levers for full or partial coverage with reversing full circle setting • Deflector dial to set distance • Impulse arm eliminates wasteful side and back splash 103108

aubuchonathome.com

summer 2013 • Aubuchon at home

9

GRILLING 101

❶

❷

❸

Grilling Fundamentals: A Primer Use this overview of the three most popular types of grills to help you decide which best suits your grilling style.

Kettle grill. Fueled by charcoal, these grills have a round or square box construction with a charcoal grate that holds the coals on the bottom and a grill rack above. Most models feature vents on the bottom, as well as the lid to help control temperature.

Benefits n More

affordable than gas grills n Higher temperatures than gas grills n Imbues foods with smoky charcoal flavors that gas grills can’t match

When choosing a gas grill, look for essential features such as a reliable, easy-read thermometer; quick-start ignition; and sturdy, simple-toclean grill grates—one of which is elevated.

10

Gas grill. Gas grills are a convenient alternative to charcoal, and are fueled by propane tanks or a natural gas hookup. The metal box construction is lined with tube-shape liquid-propane burners on the bottom. The burners are topped with a heating surface of metal bars, lava rocks, or ceramic briquettes that disperse heat from the burners throughout the grill. The grill generates its smoky aroma and flavors as drippings from food fall onto the heating surface.

Benefits n Conveniently n Greater

heats up in minutes heat control with multiple

burners mess with no need for charcoal or fire starters n Burns longer: One 20-pound tank burns 12 to 14 hours, whereas charcoal needs to be replenished every time you grill. n Less

Smoker. Smoking is essentially slow barbecuing over low heat, which can be achieved on either a gas or a

Aubuchon at home • Summer 2013

charcoal grill. But if you’re serious about smoking, consider buying a smoker. The most common type is a vertical water smoker. These cylindrical-shape vessels stand 2½ to 3½ feet high and are about 18 inches in diameter. The heat source is at the base, where coals are fueled by charcoal, gas, or electricity. Wood chips or chunks placed on the charcoal enhance the desirable smoky flavor. Above the heat source is a water pan, which provides moisture to the smoking process. There are usually two levels of grill racks above the water pan where food is placed.

Hot tip!

For perfectly done food, follow recipe timings and use a thermometer to determine doneness of all grilled fare.

Benefits

Produces low, even, indirect heat and intense wood-smoke-infused taste that only a smoker can achieve.

Direct vs. Indirect Grilling

Direct grilling is the method of placing food on the grill rack directly over the heat source, either with or without the lid closed (check the manufacturer’s directions). This method is suggested for tender, thin, or smaller quick-cooking (fewer than 30 minutes) foods, such as burgers, steaks, chops, chicken pieces, and vegetables. For even cooking, turn foods only once during grilling time.

Direct grilling on a gas grill.

To set up a two-burner gas grill for direct grilling, set one burner on high for searing and one burner on hardwarestore.com

How Hot Is Hot? To test the heat level of your grill, hold your palm above the heat source at cooking level and time how long you can comfortably keep it there.

A hot fire (400°F to 450°F) allows a 2-second hand count. A medium-hot fire (375°F to 400°F) allows a 3-second hand count. A medium fire (350°F to 375°F) equals a hand count of 4 seconds. A low fire (300°F to 350°F increases the hand count to 5 seconds.

medium to finish grilling. To set up a three- or four-burner gas grill, set one burner on high and one or two burners on medium. Leave the remaining burner off.

Direct grilling on a charcoal grill. To set up a charcoal grill for direct grilling, spread hot coals evenly over the bottom of the charcoal grate.

This ensures the food will be directly above the heat source, regardless of where it is placed on the grate.

Indirect grilling positions food on the grill rack away from or to the side of the heat source with the grill cover closed. Similar to roasting in an oven, heat inside the grill reflects off the lid and other interior surfaces, cooking the food from all sides and eliminating the need to turn the food.

This low, slow grilling method is ideal for large foods that take longer to cook, allowing them to cook through without burning.

Indirect grilling on a gas grill.

To set up a two-burner gas grill for indirect grilling, set one burner on high and cook the food over the unlit burner. For a three-burner grill, turn on the front and rear or outside

burners and cook the food in the center. For a four-burner grill, turn on the outside burners.

Indirect grilling on a charcoal grill. The most common way to set up a charcoal grill for indirect grilling is to set the coals to the side next to a drip pan, then place the food over the pan.You can also create a ring of fire and set the food in the center.

The reverse is the bull’s-eye, which creates a small area of direct heat with a perimeter of indirect heat.

Grill maintenance: Clean grill grates thoroughly before and after each use. Spick-and-span grates help prevent foods from sticking and ensure that each meal is done to perfection.

Grates come clean most easily when they are hot, so heat the grill before vigorously scrubbing grates with an iron-bristle brush. Scrape large bits of burned foods away with a sturdy metal spatula. Protect your grill from inclement weather by investing in an inexpensive grill cover. n Used with Permission. © Copyright 2013 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

Grill Safety Protect yourself by carefully following these safety tips.

Read and follow the manufacturer’s directions on how to safely light and operate your gas or charcoal grill. n Position your grill in a wellventilated area at least 10 feet away from trees, the house, and any combustible materials. Make sure the ground surface is level and stable. Once the grill is lit, don’t move it. n Keep children and pets a n

Hot tip!

As a general rule, plan to use about 30 briquettes to cook 1 pound of meat. A 5-pound bag of briquettes contains about 80 briquettes.

aubuchonathome.com

safe distance from the hot grill. n Avoid wearing loosefitting or highly flammable clothing. n Use heat-resistant mitts and tools with long handles. n Never add lighter fluid to an already-lit fire. n Keep a fire extinguisher handy in case of emergency. Do not pour water on a grease fire. n Close lids and vents on a

charcoal grill or turn off gas to extinguish flareups. Do not use water. n After grilling, cover a charcoal grill with the lid, close all vents, and allow coals to cool completely before cleaning or putting away the grill. For a gas grill, turn off all burners and the gas source. n Always store propane tanks outdoors—never in a garage or enclosed space.

summer 2013 • Aubuchon at home

11

Grill Recipes

Mesquite-Grilled Cheeseburgers Serves: 4 Prep time: 20 mins. with Warm Chipotle Grilling time: 20 - 22 mins.

INGREDIENTS

1½ pounds ground chuck (80% lean) 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1½ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper Kosher salt (to taste) 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided 1 small red onion, finely chopped 1 garlic clove, minced 4 plum tomatoes, each cut in half lengthwise 2 large handfuls mesquite wood chips, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves 1 canned chipotle chile pepper in adobo sauce, minced 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 4 slices smoked cheddar or smoked Gouda cheese, each about 1 ounce 4 hamburger buns ©Weber-Stephen Products LLC. Used with permission.

PREPARATION

1. In a large bowl gently combine the ground chuck, cumin, pepper, and 1½ teaspoons salt. Shape into four patties of equal size, each about ¾ inch thick.

With your thumb or the back of a spoon, make a shallow indentation about 1 inch wide in the center of each patty.This will help the patties cook evenly and prevent them from puffing on the grill. Cover and refrigerate until ready to cook.

2. Prepare a two-zone fire for high heat (450° to 550°F).

3. In a medium skillet over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of the oil. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is tender, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer to a medium bowl. Brush the tomatoes with the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.

4. Brush the cooking grate clean. Drain and add half of the wood chips to the charcoal and put the lid on the grill. When smoke appears, place the tomato halves, cut side up, over indirect high heat. Close the lid and cook until the tomato juices are bubbling and the skins split, about 12 minutes. Remove from the grill. Remove and discard the tomato skins and roughly chop the tomatoes. Add the tomatoes, cilantro, chile, and lime juice to the onion mixture. Season with salt. Set aside.

5. Drain and add the remaining wood chips to the charcoal and put the lid on the grill. When the wood starts to smoke, cook the patties over direct high heat, with the lid closed as much as possible, until cooked to medium doneness, 8 to 10 minutes, turning once. During the last minute of cooking time, place a slice of cheese on each patty to melt and toast the rolls, cut side down. Remove from the grill and build each burger with the salsa. Serve warm.

For more great recipes visit www.weber.com/grillout/recipes

Aubuchon Hardware offers FREE assembly on all grill purchases.

Just one of the many ways “We’ll fix you right up”!

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Spirit® E-210TM Propane Grill Smokey Joe Silver Charcoal Grill • Rust-resistant aluminum vent • Plated steel cooking grate • Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl • Ash catcher 155374

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• 26,500 BTU • 450 sq. in. total cooking surface • Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates 451427

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Let me help you kick some

BASS! -

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So, be sure to get your line in the water and head over to www.HardwareStore.com or scan the QR Code above to enter to win. We’ll start announcing different prizes inlcuded in the package weekly from June 1st July 31st. Only one lucky person will win and have the prizes delivered

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Painting Ideas

Welcome Home to Color

T

he long awaited arrival of vibrant summer color awakens the color-lover in all of us. If you’re on the hunt for a way to prolong the color-laden pleasures of a sweeping summer garden,why not treat yourself to a colorful hello every time you open the front door?

Doors painted in colors that mimic sunny yellow marigolds, vibrant blue

delphiniums or mimic a colorful zinnia too rare to even name, will have your home looking cheerful long after the last of the autumn leaves are raked away. Whether your door enjoys a sunny location or sits quietly beneath a deep imposing portico, snazzing up the curb appeal with a vibrant, even unusual color, is certain to bring a smile to all who are lucky enough to

turn the key. Here are a few tried and true nearly over the top colors, that will definitely cause a few inquisitive color seekers to come knock on your sensational door.

AskLu I’ve decided it’s out with the constantly faded wood, and in, with a freshly painted amazing color that’s sure to have my neighbors talking. Yes indeed, I’m ready to paint my sad looking wood door Softened Violet-Classic Color/1420.

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Aubuchon at home • Spring 2013

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Tips for Picking a Perfect Front Door Color

T

he front door of your home offers up an opportunity to allow visitors a glimpse into your personal design aesthetic.

While painting the entire body of Federal style colonial a vibrant orange may be too big a leap, painting just the front door a sassy orange will carry the same artistic message. When considering your color options, keep in mind that it’s not necessary for the front door color to be otherwise represented on the house. A vivid color choice will anchor a soft collection of exterior color effectively so don’t be fearful about considering a big bold statement color.

Often unexpected departures make the most interesting choice; think sage green siding with a peony pink front door. Understated neutral siding colors are very compatible with splashy red, rich cobalt blue or a very outlandish hot burnt orange hue. Whimsy and charm should be the rule, especially if your hope is to make a statement. Here are a few tips to help assure you feel super confident about your cheerful, whimsical, dare I say wild front door color!

It’s best to have your door primed

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white, but if you’re not up to that part yet, drape a white sheet or drop cloth over your door if it’s already a color. This will eliminate any existing visual color interference as you begin the process of evaluating your options.

Look around, and consider the colors which exist around the door.

Is there paving, lots of trim, a nearby garden or a view? Any existing color you can carry over to support your color direction will help you to feel more confident, especially if you’re pushing your color comfort zone to the limit.

Work first with color chips, to narrow down your selections to a few, after which, you can paint larger test samples on to cardboard. Hang samples at the door, and take a look at how the colors behave over the course of a few days. When do you love it? On a sunny day? A rainy day? If you can’t make a choice, add a few color references from around the house to create context. Here, a single green shutter, representative of a far off barn on the property, helps to make the final choice feel right.

If you’ve decided on a color but are still feeling a little wobbly about it, ask your Aubuchon Hardware paint specialist to tint the primer as near to your color selection as possible. Even if it isn’t a perfect match, you’ll be more than half way there in your decision-making, and you won’t have wasted the priming effort.

Best of all, this step will usually convince anxious color pickers that their color is exactly, perfectly and fabulously right!

summer 2013 • Aubuchon at home

15

Painting Ideas

A word about ladders too. Don’t stand on a chair, the paint can, or an upside down spackle bucket. Use one ladder that’s hopefully a little higher than you actually need. Test it before you go up it, and cover the top with newspaper if it’s borrowed and you’ll be keeping your brush or paint bucket up there.

The perfect preparation Clean, sand, clean

Dirt is the enemy of high quality painting, and you’ll be busy enough chasing the flies from your wet paint, so take the time to get your surface clean, clean, clean. For polyurethane finishes, or previously painted doors, clean before you sand, and then again after. Don’t forget your gloves and a mask, especially if the paint surface is old. Lead test any surface painted before 1970, and ask your Aubuchon Hardware paint specialist for directions on the how and why of lead paint management. Tack rags and a dusting brush are a great thing to have on hand to keep your surface dust free.

For the wash, very dirty doors should be scrubbed clean. For the most dirty, Simple Green or new formulations of dry powder TSP, while cleaner surfaces are made good with dish soap and water. Don’t skip the cleaning.

Paint Your Front Door Like a PRO

I

f there’s one thing a pro does differently than a weekend paint enthusiast it’s this: A pro brings everything and anything they may need for the project, to the project, the first time. This hunting and gathering of ladders, dusting brushes, cleaning supplies, tools and the like,

Liquid TSP Substitute #291724

16

Aubuchon at home • Summer 2013

may seem obvious. Nothing botches up a paint project more than not having that extra piece of sandpaper, or the cleaning bucket, or whatever the thing is you need and don’t have.

Gather your supplies, and make a nice clean out of the way place to keep them at the ready.

3X Sanding Sponge, Very Fine 220 Grit #128659

Tape

Even if you are a pro, doors are not the place to skip the tape. It’s virtually impossible to remove paint from weather stripping, and good hardware should be taped very carefully. For the weatherstripping, slip the tape behind, and fold it down over the rubber. Practice with a small piece of tape if you can’t quite get it right. Weather stripping that does not need to “move”, can be painted,

Scotch Blue Masking Tape #142257

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but don’t paint the weatherstripping around a working door. Around the hinges, cut the tape back or roll it onto itself to make a crisp edge to work toward. If the door handle is too big or too complicated to remove, take your time with the tape.

Wrap the handle in saran wrap or crumpled up aluminum foil to keep the drips off the finish.

Protect the floor

A drop cloth can be annoying under a door, and will invariably wind up crumpled against the bottom of your freshly painted and still wet surface.

Cardboard is a better choice, spray it with a spritz of water if it’s at all dusty from your sanding work, or use clean newspaper on top. Clean and easy!

Prime + Paint

Your paint specialist will guide your choice of primer, which is dictated by the surface you’re painting over. Make certain you have the highest quality brush you can for the job, and a clean bucket to work from too. (OH NO! not out of the can!) Choose the largest brush you’re comfortable with, and smaller brushes for detail work will make for a much neater result. Painting is a methodical process; start with the inside edge of any detailing, fill in any recessed

2” Polyester Angle Paint Brush #124426

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panels. Then, starting from the top do all the horizontal areas, then finish off at all the vertical work. Keep your eyes open for those tiny drips that run out of the corners of recessed panels or windows and ruin a painted door project. If you miss one, let it dry, and cut it off with a razor. Sand out the bump, and prime it and paint the entire area again.

Finish off your brush strokes in the same consistent direction (up), don’t overwork the paint, and do not work in direct sunlight. Better still, keep the door open to the entrance as you work, and be very sure it’s very dry before you close it. Finally, be sure to get a coat of something, if not the primer and the paint, on the top of the door. This will keep the door stable through the changing seasons.

If you want to add an extra coat of paint, allow your first coat to dry very well, and sand it ever so lightly with a 220 grit wet/dry sandpaper, used dry. Remove the dust with a clean cloth, damp paper towel or tack rag, and repeat the painting process in the same way you applied the first coat.You can skip the top this time.

Removing the tape

Score the edges of your tape with a painter’s five-in-one, or the edge of a flat screwdriver, before you remove it. Pull the tape toward the fresh paint, and leave any slivers right there where they are until the next day.

Once the door is absolutely dry, you can dust any tiny paint slivers away. n

Nothing says “welcome home” better.

Come into Aubuchon Hardware to get all the tools and expertise you will need to paint like a PRO!

Aubuchon Hardware offers the authentic Benjamin Moore colors that inspire design professionals and do-ityourselfers alike. Come in and see us today and let us show you how Benjamin Moore Regal Select Exterior is a great choice for your project.

When it comes to your home, we know that you want even the smallest detail right.

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Pet of the month

Does your pet have what it takes to be our next Pet of the Month?

Share a photo of your pet on our Facebook wall. Each month we choose our favorite & give them a $50 Aubuchon Hardware Gift Card and a chance to get featured in Aubuchon At Home Magazine!

PET

of the MONTH

April

May

Moses Gabriel Jingles

Gryphon

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Pool Care

Pool Chemical Information Chemical

Description

Application

FREE Chlorine

The amount of good, working chlorine in your pool.

Use tablets, granules or sticks.

Total Chlorine

The amount of “left-over” chlorine in pool. Consists of used up chlorine from tablets, shock and/or Summer Shield.

Use liquid or granulated Shock-It.

Stabilizer

Holds chlorine in your pool water.

Use chlorine stabilizer/conditioner.

The acidity or basicity of your pool water. High pH can cause scaling, cloudy water, chlorine inefficiency, skin and eye irritation and can shorten concrete/plaster/gunite and metal fixtures, stripping of metals, staining, liner wrinkles and chlorine loss.

To lower your pH, use pH minus or Muriatic Acid.

Alkalinity

Buffers the pH in the water to prevent radical changes in the pH.

To raise your alkalinity, use Alkalinity Boost.

Calcium Hardness

The amount of dissolved calcium in water. Low calcium can cause liner wrinkles, pitting of concrete/ plaster/gunite and metal fixtures and aggressive water. High calcium causes scaling, cloudy water, reduced circulation and shortens filter cycles.

pH

To raise your pH, use pH Plus.

To lower alkalinity, use Muriatic Acid

Iron

The amount of iron in your pool water

.

To remove iron use Metal Magnet or Metal Control

Frequently Asked Questions 1. What is an appropriate pH level?

An appropriate pH level is between 7.2 and 7.6 2. What is an appropriate chlorine level?

An appropriate chlorine level is between 1.0 and 3.0 ppm.

4. How do I obtain a good water sample?

From the deep end of the pool, reach down to elbow depth (18”) and collect 8 oz of water in a clean plastic container.

3. What is the recommended range for total alkalinity?

100 to 150 ppm is recommended when using a stabilized chlorine. Using an unstabilized chlorine the range is 80 to 120 ppm.

6. What other tests can a dealer perform on the water sample?

They can also test your water for: iron, copper, total dissolved solids, saturation index and calcium hardness.

5. Why is stabilizer important?

The sun’s rays can destroy the chlorine in your pool. Stabilizer acts as a shield to extend the longevity of the chlorine.

All your pool chemicals and cleaning supplies Since Available at

© 2013 Coastal Pools, Inc. Reproduced from website.

For more information, visit http://coastalpool.com/index.html

EVERY first date EVERY second helping EVERY sweet moment EVERY green thumb STARTS HERE Grow your best garden with Miracle-Gro® LiquaFeed® plant food and Moisture Control® soils. Because when your plants get the right amount of food and water, you’ll grow bigger, healthier plants with beautiful flowers and bountiful vegetables. Or anything else you can imagine.

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