Home and Garden Guide Spring 2017

T H E P R E S S SPRI NG

April 14, 2017

E D I T I O N

Photo by Tony Kukulich

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The right time to go solar AMY SCHRADER

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early 140 years ago, Thomas Edison lit up Christie Street in Menlo Park, New Jersey, and introduced America to the

first commercially viable light bulb.

“We will make electricity so cheap only the rich will burn candles,” Edison said.

Little did he know Americans would be pulling the candles back out of their cupboards 139 years later, cutting back on electricity usage, as the price of electricity continued to soar. While Edison isn’t available to brainstorm another invention, many Americans are finding a sunny solution in solar power.

Since 2007, Brentwood’s West Coast Solar, Inc. has been helping property owners throughout Northern California save money and lower or eliminate their dependence on fossil fuels. The company, founded

by Aaron Bryant and Jeffery Tamayo, is celebrating its 10-year anniversary this summer.

“There has never been a better time to go solar,” said George Sanchez, West Coast Solar, Inc. operations ON THE COVER: Ken Curtis, of West Coast Solar, installs solar panels on a home in Brentwood. Photo

by Tony Kukulich.

Photo by Tony Kukulich

Brian Miller, sales manager with West Coast Solar, Inc. works with East County customers to ensure their solar needs are met. manager. “While the cost of equipment has declined over the past few years, we feel it has hit its low point and will soon start increasing.”

According to Sanchez, the 30 percent federal-tax credit available to solar-power consumers is another

incentive providing additional savings.

“At some point in the near future, this incentive will disappear, so we encourage people to act now, see Solar page 19B

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Tiny house movement comes to Brentwood AMY SCHRADER

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he tiny-house, ‘less is more’ movement sweeping the nation has recently hit home,

on Walnut Boulevard in Brentwood.

Prestige Manufactured Homes, Inc., a manufactured-homes dealer with a history of building beautiful and affordable homes across the county for more than 50 years, is bringing the tiny trend to East County. Their first tiny home, or park-amodel home as they are sometimes called, in Brentwood is already sold, but starting Monday, April 17, they will be conducting tours every day, on the hour, for residents interested in smaller spaces.

“Tiny houses make us all imagine a simpler life, with fewer obligations and responsibilities,” said Tony Bess, president and dealer of Prestige Manufactured Homes, Inc. By their nature, tiny houses force people to shed what they don’t need, creating a space of retreat and simplicity.

Their architectural bravado creates stunning exteriors and beautiful, creative and functional interiors.

The major force behind the tinyhouse movement lies in the cost.

Photo by Tony Kukulich

Prestige Manufactured Homes, Inc. will be offering tours of Brentwood’s first park-amodel homes starting Monday, April 17.

“There’s a major shortage of housing in the Bay Area, and the housing that is available is growing more and more

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expensive,” said Bess. “People need affordable housing, and tiny houses are a great solution.”

According to Bess, tiny homes can start as low as $49,900 and climb as high as $105,900. No permits are needed, and build time is three to five weeks, from time ordered to delivery. Many homebuyers pay cash, but financing options are available. Buyers are responsible for securing a location for their tiny home.

When purchasing a tiny home, it’s important to work with a reputable company. Prestige Manufactured Homes, Inc. is a certified state dealer of manufactured homes, which means all the homes pass inspections, are tagged, certified and have a warranty. They also offer parts, services and repairs.

“People might think it’s a good idea to buy a tiny home from a local handyman, but that purchase could involve risks,” said Bess. “There’s no way to know the house was properly constructed, is safe to live in and that a mobile-living park will allow a noncertified home to occupy a space.”

Even though homeowners are spending less, their tiny homes are packed with many of the luxuries you’d find in large homes.

Brentwood resident Ernestine Harris purchased a modular home from see Tiny page 15B

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Utility rates making residents see green AMY SCHRADER

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ith PG&E rates skyrocketing, many East County residents

are going green to save money.

Brentwood resident Anthony Rachal turned to Del Sol Energy, a Brentwoodbased solar company that has been harnessing energy from the sun since 2006.

“I was tired of PG&E continuing to raise their prices,” said Rachal. “Their rates keep on going up, and they are all about their profit, not about their customers.”

PG&E began the process of reducing the number of tiers in its standard-rate plan and increasing consumer electric prices in 2015 and will continue to do so until 2019. To avoid future increases, Rachal researched solar companies and chose Del Sol Energy based on its stellar reputation, exceptional customer service and quality products.

“They are very personable and did a great job,” said Rachal. “It feels really good not forking money over to PG&E each month. Getting solar was a smart move, and I’m glad I hired Del Sol.” Rachal is not alone in his decision. The

Photo courtesy of Del Sol Energy

Del Sol Energy has seen a 100 percent increase in sales from last year, due to PG&E rate hikes. number of East County residents turning to solar has increased alongside PG&E’s rising rates.

“Compared to last year, our sales have

increased 100 percent, due to PG&E rate hikes,” said Josh Aldrich, Del Sol Energy CEO. Aldrich started the company with

Matt Turville, COO. Together, they bring more than 30 years of experience successfully working in the solar industry.

According to Aldrich, homeowners can start saving money immediately after they go solar.

“The savings start from day one, whether you pay for the system upfront or use financing,” said Aldrich. “We have great rates, starting at 2.99 percent for a term of 5 to 25 years. A customer with a $300 monthly average PG&E bill would have a new solar loan payment of $129 per month for 15 years if they went solar with Del Sol Energy.”

Del Sol Energy’s systems also come with a 25-year warranty, which gives users peace of mind as they move from traditional electric to solar.

“Our customers want to take control of their bills,” said Aldrich. “Solar is the best way to do that with the financing we offer.”

PG&E customers who are tired of seeing their electric bills increase can call Del Sol Energy for a free energy audit to learn how they can start saving money with solar.

Del Sol Energy is located at 160 Chestnut St., in Brentwood. For more information, call 925-350-4121 or visit www.delsolnrg.com.

To comment, visit www.thepress.net.

APRIL 14, 2017

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Good housekeeping AMY SCHRADER

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aids are no longer just for the rich and famous – busy working fami-

lies are using them, too, and often consider the service a necessity.

After working long hours, commuting and chauffeuring kids, working parents are beat and don’t have time to mop, dust, vacuum or scrub and scour their home. Luckily for them, professional cleaning services are available to perform the tasks needed to keep their homes spotless and clean.

Molly Maid of East Contra Costa and Solano Counties has been cleaning homes for more than 10 years. A professional cleaning company, it is fully insured, with dependable staff providing exceptional cleaning services.

“We often surprise new customers signing for an initial cleaning,” said owner Steve Heike. “Once they walk into to their clean home and notice all the details, they realize this is something they want on a regular basis and feel relieved, because they won’t have to stress or worry about finding time to do it themselves.”

Heike suggests people proceed with

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caution when hiring a cleaning service.

Quality of service is paramount.

“If you’re going to pay someone to clean your house, you expect them to do a good job,” said Heike.

Reading reviews and asking friends who use or have used the service is a great way to check the quality of service.

According to Heike, you should make sure you are dealing with a legitimate company versus an independent cleaning person.

Molly Maid of East Contra Costa and Solano Counties perform background checks and drug-checks on its employees and is insured and bonded.

“Some cleaning services might be cheaper, but there are risks associated with an individual or company that isn’t insured and bonded,” said Heike.

Some businesses or individuals will say they are licensed, but that does not mean they are insured. Heike recommends asking for a certificate of insurance at the time of an estimate.

An insured and bonded company will cover injuries of workers who are cleaning your home, including slip-and-fall injuries, which are common and sometimes fraudulent. They will also work see Housekeeping page 17B

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HOME & GARDEN

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Treat your windows, transform your home

AMY SCHRADER

many houses apart from the cookie-cutter look

often found in planned communities are windows.

Windows can draw light and beautiful outdoor spaces in, and the right window treatments can change the look and feel of an entire home. Contra Costa Blinds in Discovery Bay has been providing premium window fashions at an affordable price for more than 20 years. They offer the latest styles, colors, textures, finishes and operating systems.

“We have something for every client,” said owner Matt Baker. “From honeycomb shades to faux wood blinds and motorized sheers, we’re doing it all.”

The window-treatment experts are a premium dealer of Hunter Douglas and Norman shutters, blinds and shades. They also carry the latest innovations, combining both style and function.

“Motorization, home automation and integration are the current innovations buzzing in our industry,” said Baker.

These innovations include automatically adjusting window treatments, which create the perfect ambiance morning, noon and night. Hunter Douglas’ revolutionary PowerView Motorization allows homeowners to program, control and schedule their window treatment’s exact position using a smartphone or tablet app. PowerView Motorization is available in a wide range of sophisticated styles, achieving a stylistic look that is automated and energy efficient.

Since Contra Costa Blinds ckeep every kind of window treatment under one roof.

“From mini blinds of varying thickness to the faux wood blinds, real wood blinds, Romans, rollers and woven woods, we offer a variety of styles and price ranges,” said Baker.

Whatever homeowners choose, the result is transformative.

“I feel like I have a whole new office, and Contra Costa Blinds was incredible to work with. Matt’s attention to detail and customer service is incredible,” said Discovery Bay resident Anita Sparks.

Contra Costa Blinds is located at 934 Lido Circle, in Discovery Bay. For more information call 925-240-0451.

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Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Paint colors can dramatically change the mood and design of a home.

Create dramatic looks with bold paint colors

P

ainting is one of the easiest

goals, paint can make a statement or

Many people are now looking to bold colors to make spaces stand out, but choosing a paint color can be challenging. Homeowners looking to update walls and complement decor may want to look at some of the more impactful colors that Pantone indicates will be popular for the

blend into the background.

see Paint page 11B

and least expensive ways to transform the look of a space,

and depending on a homeowner’s

APRIL 14, 2017

HOME & GARDEN

Paint from page 10B 2017 season. Primrose yellow, lapis blue, flame, pink yarrow and greenery are some of the more eye-catching selections. Once colors are selected, consider these guidelines for using bolder colors in room designs.

Decide how big an impact to make Are you looking for color overload or just a small focal point of vivid color? Remember, using bold color doesn’t mean every wall must be lathered in that hue. Instead, select one wall to serve as an accent point and use that spot as your bold color display.

Otherwise, rely on bold colors to dress up otherwise mundane areas, such as the back wall of a cupboard or moldings and trim.

Try bold in a small space Many people are surprised at how well bold colors work in small spaces. Powder rooms can be an ideal spot to experiment with paint colors. Try deep colors to make the area seem intimate and even exotic.

Dark, bold hues can be toned down by different accents, such as neutral fixtures and towels.

Go bold in the kitchen Incorporate a splash of color in the kitchen, without going overboard. Try

an appliance or design fixture in a bright shade, or paint the inside of the cabinets your favorite color and install glass inserts in the cabinet doors, so everyone gets a peek of the color beyond. A neutral kitchen also can be brightened up with the use of silverware, dishes, pots and pans and other kitchen items featured in bold hues.

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Establish balance Rely on neutral furniture, rugs, moldings and baseboards if you decide to take bold colors up a notch. This will help create a sense of balance in the room.

Painting is a fun way to experiment with color. Many homeowners are not hesitant to use bold shades of color when they learn the right techniques. Since paint is an inexpensive option for making over a room, those who find they do not like a particular color can easily paint over it with a new color.

– Courtesy Metro Creative

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Stick to boldness on interchangeable items Those who like to experiment with color may find they like to switch out the colors now and again. Instead of repainting every few months, use decorative items in bright shades to make swapping out color easier. For example, replace area rugs, throw pillows and draperies, or paint over terra cotta flower pots when the mood strikes.

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HOME & GARDEN

Delta Informal Gardeners digging into spring AMY SCHRADER

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hen Brentwood resident Connie Miller, president of Delta Informal

Gardeners, looks out the window of her Brentwood home, she is filled with joy.

“I look out the window every day at my garden, and it makes me happy,” she said.

She shares this feeling with other members of her garden club, also known as DIG. This spring, members of DIG are preparing to spread their love of gardening with the community at their annual plant sale, scheduled for May 13, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Wolfe Ranch in Brentwood.

The event will offer a wide selection of beautiful and healthy plants at rock-bottom prices. A 1-gallon annual sells for $2; a 1-gallon perennial sells for $3; 2- to 3-gallon plants sell for $4; 5-gallon plants sell for $6; and California native plants sell for $7.

Succulents and specialty plants vary in price, but customers can expect a great deal on every purchase.

“You will always find something you love at our plant sale,” said Miller. “There is something for everyone.”

The sale will feature a variety of California native plants and succulents, including unusual and interesting varieties,

Photo courtesy of DIG

Delta Informal Gardeners’ annual plant sale will be held this year on May 13, at Wolfe Ranch in Brentwood. annuals, perennials, shrubs, vegetable plants and more. Gardening experts will also be present, advising customers on how to take care of the plants they purchase.

According to Miller, spring is the perfect time to put your green thumb to work.

“This is the best time to garden,” said Miller. “The weather is just right, the ground is workable and all of the rain will help your plants flourish.”

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Some of the plants Miller recommends for spring are geraniums or other flowering plants, which should be planted in an area with afternoon shade.

“Geraniums will expand and blossom into summer,” she said.

This is also the finest time to plant vegetables, including tomatoes, eggplant, peppers and other summer salad staples.

While now handy with plants, Miller has

not always been an expert at gardening. She attributes her knowledge to being a member of DIG. The gardening club, which was formed in 1988 with only a handful of members, has grown to 120. The group’s monthly meetings include educational speakers, friendship and fun. They also have field trips, competitions and garden tours, and they partake in community service, often donating plants to local high schools.

“I joined the club about eight years ago, learned so much about gardening and have had so much fun,” said DIG member and treasurer Virginia Guider. “It’s nice to see there are so many people who care about their gardens.”

Club members have been working hard to prepare for the plant sale, as many of the plants being sold are cuttings from their own gardens.

“It’s amazing to share the work we put into our own gardens with the public, who will take plants home and create or add them to their own gardens,” said Guider.

Both Guider and Miller recommend guests arrive early to the annual sale, as people line up before the event starts to take advantage of the sale’s low prices.

Wolfe Ranch is located at 700 Creek Road, in Brentwood. For more information, visit www.deltainformalgardeners.org.

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APRIL 14, 2017

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Tips for novice composters

T

he U.S. Environmental Protection Agency notes that food scraps and yard

waste account for between 20 and 30 percent of what we throw away, but thanks to composting, such waste can be put to work rather than discarded.

Compost is organic material that helps plants grow when added to soil.

Benefitting the planet in myriad ways, compost enriches the soil by helping it retain moisture and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers, while also suppressing plant diseases and pests, and reducing methane emissions from landfills.

Homeowners who do not know how to compost can consider the following tips as they form piles on their properties.

reduce • reuse • recycle • respect • recover Help us keep as many items out of the landfill as possible.

Contra Costa Waste Services 1300 Loveridge Road in Pittsburg

Choose an accessible spot When looking for a spot on your property for your compost bin, choose a location that’s easily accessible. The less accessible the bin is, the less likely you are to stick with composting in the long see Composting page 16B

For more information, please visit: www.ContraCostaWaste.com

Recovering as many items as possible!

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Composting is a great way to help your plants grow and thrive, while reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.

Contra Costa Waste Service reduce • reuse • recycle • respect • recover A Garaventa Company

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HOME & GARDEN

Find the perfect outdoor living space in the shade AMY SCHRADER

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ou may have noticed things are starting to heat up.

Before you know it, summer

will be here, bringing with it blazing hot sunshine and higher temperatures, but one one way to enjoy the outdoors under the hot summer sun is to find some shade.

SunBusters Patio Covers in Brentwood specializes in giving outdoor spaces shade with custom louvered covers; custom solar screens; drop shades; insulated and non-insulated roofs; lattice covers; freestanding or attached pergolas and trellises; and lattices.

For more than 18 years, the company, owned by Alan Lee, has been offering affordable patio covers at a fraction of the cost of wood, without the maintenance.

His products are available in a variety of colors and personalized options, such as lighting, electrical options, column upgrades and one of the hottest trends in patio covers – louvered roof covers by Equinox.

“Louvered roof covers create comfortable outdoor living for any season

Press file photo

Brentwood Outdoor Living offers a variety of options for all your outdoor needs. and can be controlled with a touch of a button,” said Lee. “You can open them to let in a light breeze and some sunlight, or keep them closed for shade.”

Regardless of which sun cover option you choose, SunBusters Patio Covers can make your outdoor living space as

comfortable as your indoor space, year round.

“Before we had SunBusters install a 3-inch insulated patio cover, our backyard was a wasted space,” said Clayton resident Lynda Morell, whose backyard gets 10 hours of sunshine a day, making

it a hot zone. “The patio cover cuts down the heat tremendously, and it’s now cool enough (we could add) a couch and eat lunch outside on our patio every day.

We now love our yard. We couldn’t be happier.”

Once you have your space properly covered, you’ll need to fill it with the right furniture and accessories.

Brentwood Outdoor Living is your one-stop shop for outdoor living. From outdoor furniture, spas and barbecues to fire tables, custom islands and more, you can build your dream backyard with what the specialty store has to offer.

“With more and more yards becoming entertainment extensions, the trend to maximize the utilization of outdoor space is one that doesn’t appear to be slowing down,” said Kevin King, general manager and operator of Brentwood Outdoor Living. “Having outdoor furniture doesn’t mean you have to sit on hardwood or plastic. Manufacturers are offering more interior-quality products that withstand the rigors of outdoor environments.”

This includes the trend of turning classic outdoor furniture designs into modern pieces that are more durable and see Outdoor page 15B

Contra Costa Blinds

Outdoor from page 14B comfortable. Classic, woven, wicker-style furniture is now available in long-lasting polymer, providing the natural appearance of wicker without the breakage and lack of longevity.

Currently, one of the hottest trends in outdoor dining is the fire table, which incorporates outdoor dining with evening socializing and ambiance. The combination of the right furniture with other outdoor features creates the perfect outdoor living space.

“I love that our backyard is an extension of our house,” said Brentwood resident Stephanie Dourgarian, who transformed her family’s patio into an outdoor

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living space perfect for entertaining, with a dining table, fire pit, patio cover, kitchen island, outdoor sound system and other features. “We enjoy it year-round, regardless of the weather, and I love that we have a comfortable outdoor space to share with our friends and family.”

SunBusters Patio Covers is located at 700 Harvest Park Drive, Suite F, in Brentwood. For more information call 925-625-0120, or visit www. sunbustersinc.com. Brentwood Outdoor Living is located at 6061 Lone Tree Way, Suite G. For more information, call 925-626-6383, or visit www.brentwoodoutdoorliving.com.

To comment, visit www.thepress.net.

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Prestige Manufactured Homes, Inc. in December 2015, after health conditions forced her to move out of her two-story, 3,000-square-foot home in Antioch.

“Prestige Manufactured Homes was wonderful to work with and has exceptional customer service and expertise that’s hard to find,” said Harris. “Tony helped me design a custom home with high ceilings; a large, open living space; a laundry room; a gorgeous kitchen with granite counters, stainless-steel appliances and a pantry; a front porch; a custom deck; and beautiful details and features I love.”

The only thing Harris regrets is not downsizing sooner.

“I’m elated – I love my home and wish I made this decision earlier in my life,” she said. “It feels so good to get rid of all of the clutter and things you don’t need and move into a space designed just for you.”

Brentwood’s first tiny house is 399 square feet and has one bedroom; one large loft, which is big enough to fit two twin-sized beds; one bathroom; a

luxurious, custom-designed kitchen, with granite counters, a beautiful backsplash and full-sized appliances; central air; and an extra-large porch.

“People are amazed at the options they can add to tiny houses,” said Bess.

“We offer more than 60 different models.

From cottage to Mediterranean, cabin-feel and more, homeowners can choose the style of their house and use their imaginations to create the perfect living space on the inside.”

Local residents may soon have more opportunities in tiny living, as Bess has been working with the county to have 3 acres of lakefront property in Byron rezoned for residential living. If that happens, the area will be filled with tiny homes available for sale and rent, perfect for the boating community and those craving lakefront living.

Prestige Manufactured Homes, Inc. is located at 8660 Brentwood Blvd., Suite A, in Brentwood. For more information or tours, call 925-516-6755 or visit www. prestigemh.com.

To comment, visit www.thepress.net.

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Composting from page 13B run. The EPA also recommends placing a compost bin or pile in a dry, shady spot near a water source.

Add the appropriate materials Animal waste, cooked foods, diseased plants and fresh weeds from perennial plants should not be added to a compost pile. The EPA recommends moistening dry materials as they’re added and adding brown and green materials when collected.

Examples of green waste include grass clippings, weeds from annual plants and plant trimmings. Brown materials include dead leaves and shredded cardboard. Chop or shred large pieces before adding them to the pile.

Give the pile structure Layering materials can give compost piles better structure. The EPA suggests burying fruit and vegetable waste under 10 inches of compost material, including brown and green waste.

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Using a garden fork, periodically turn the compost pile. This aerates the heap and provides oxygen that can accelerate the decomposition process. Piles that are not

Benefitting the planet in myriad ways, compost enriches the soil by helping it retain moisture and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. periodically turned and aerated may grow malodorous, which can be unpleasant for homeowners who hope to add materials on a regular basis. In addition, without the heat produced by aeration, composting piles will break down very slowly.

Recognize when the material is ready The EPA notes that compost is ready to use when materials at the bottom of a pile are dark and rich in color. According to the EPA, this can take anywhere from two months to two years, so composters must be patient.

For more information, visit www.epa. gov. – Courtesy Metro Creative

APRIL 14, 2017

HOME & GARDEN

Housekeeping from page 8B with homeowners to replace property damaged during cleanings.

Another advantage to dealing with a legitimate company is the level of professionalism the employees exhibit.

“None of our employees will bring their kids to your house while they clean, eat your food or do anything else perceived as unprofessional,” said Heike.

Molly Maid’s employees adhere to a high level of professionalism, as well as impeccable service.

“They’re always on time, and my house is spotless when they leave,” said Brentwood resident Geri Mauldin, who has been a customer for over five years.

“My husband and I both work, and it is

phenomenal coming home to a sparkling, clean house, when you’re exhausted and tired. I love it.”

Molly Maid of East Contra Costa and Solano Counties also has services for small offices and businesses and provides free estimates. Pricing for services is based on the square footage of a home, number of bedrooms, bathrooms and each homeowner’s specific lifestyle. Homeowners with more children and pets might require additional time for cleanings.

Molly Maid of East Contra Costa and Solano Counties is located at 2400 Sycamore Drive, Suite 21, in Antioch. For more information, call 925-679-1300 or visit https://goo.gl/G1bhpx.

To comment, visit www.thepress.net.

Joe Surfer

Bro, bathroom is totally rad.

Lily Livver

When momma’s away the mice have to play. Lol!

1 min • Reply 1 min • Reply

Tea Roll

i’m so much smarter and prettyer and better than u....

1 min • Reply

Aunt Party #sweetlife 1 min • Reply

Discovery Pest Just Now • Reply

Knock, knock.

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Molly Maid of East Contra Costa and Solano Counties is a professional, insured and bonded company that has been cleaning homes for more than 10 years.

Photo courtesy of Molly Maid of East Contra Costa and Solano Counties

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HOME & GARDEN

Stay safe when trimming the yard

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andscaping is typically viewed as a chore by homeowners, and although some enjoy

working on their lawns and gardens, few recognize the potential dangers of lawn maintenance.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that more than 230,000 people per year are treated for various injuries resulting from lawn and garden tools. Common injuries include loss of fingers, lacerations, broken and dislocated bones, eye injuries and burns. Many of these injuries are entirely preventable, when homeowners prioritize safety while tending to their lawns and gardens.

Understand the equipment Homeowners should not assume they know how to use all of the tools necessary to maintain lush lawns and bountiful gardens.

Familiarize yourself with the proper operation of manual and motorized equipment by reading the owner’s manual thoroughly and making special note of recommended safety guidelines. Take some time to locate the power buttons and other parts by comparing them to illustrations in the guide.

Only operate once you feel comfortable

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

Landscaping tools can be dangerous in the wrong hands. Those handling equipment for the yard should always take the time to safeguard against accidents. handling the equipment.

Wear appropriate protective gear Failure to wear protective gear can lead to injury.

Personal protective equipment includes gloves, eye protection, ear protection, boots and a hard hat, if necessary. When working during lowered visibility conditions or at night, wear a reflective vest. Other protective items include a hat to shade your eyes and sunscreen to protect your skin from

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UVA and UVB radiation.

Also, long pants and sleeves can guard against flying debris.

Watch your surroundings Thousands of injuries occur to children and pets that get hurt around mowers.

It’s best if children and pets remain indoors when homeowners are mowing or using other power equipment that may kick up debris. Keep in mind, children under the age of 12 may not have the

strength or ability to operate lawn tools.

Nobody under the age of 16 should operate riding lawn mowers.

Also, never make a game of riding a child on a riding mower.

Get approval before digging It’s difficult to know what’s beneath the ground without having a property surveyed and marked.

Digging without approval can result in damage to gas lines or water and sewer pipes. Always check with local utility compan before digging trenches or holes.

Unplug or turn off all equipment When not in use, keep lawn equipment off.

Do not try to repair or fix a snag or obstruction in equipment while it is on. Don’t modify the equipment in any way, such as removing protective guards.

Exercise caution with chemicals Follow manufacturers’ safety instructions when using pesticides or fertilizers.

Avoid application on windy days or right before a rainstorm, as this can spread the product and damage the ecosystem.

Additionally, keep people and pets away from treated areas.

Maintaining the yard is both a necessity and a hobby. Homeowners who prioritize safety can greatly reduce their risk of injury.

– Courtesy Metro Creative

APRIL 14, 2017

HOME & GARDEN

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Solar from page 3B

There has never been a better time to go solar.

– George Sanchez, operations manager

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According to Sanchez, West Coast Solar, Inc. takes a more prescriptive approach to financing, making sure they find a solution that makes the most sense for their clients.

“It’s not often these days you find a company that exceeds your expectations when it comes to communication, follow-through and professionalism,” said Discovery Bay resident Evan Steiner, who converted to solar power in November.

According to Steiner, West Coast Solar specialist Doug Francom was helpful every step of the way and stayed involved through the entire process.

“They moved quickly, the job was done exactly as we had discussed, the installation was very clean and they got us up and running very quickly,” said Steiner. “I’m glad we did it, and we are enjoying the benefits already.”

West Coast Solar, Inc. is located at 2155 Elkins Way, Suite C, in Brentwood.

For more information, call 925-516-3900 or visit www.westcoastsolar.com.

To comment, visit www.thepress.net.

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before it’s too late,” said Sanchez.

“Because of the current low cost of equipment and availability of tax credits, solar proves to be a great return on investment.”

The secret to the savings is in the panels. Solar panels are made of photovoltaic (PV) cells, which convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter then conducts the DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is used to power lights and household appliances. The inverter sends the AC electricity to a home’s electrical panel, where the utility meter measures electricity usage. Many homeowners with solar power actually see their meter roll backward, as their system generates more power than they need.

The key to minimizing cost and maximizing savings lies in finding a company to create a solar system that fits your needs.

“There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ (answer) for solar,” said Sanchez.”

West Coast Solar, Inc.’s advisors work personally with each homeowner to assess their needs and energy usage before developing a customized system.

Their customers also have access to a variety of financing options, including loans, property-assessed clean energy programs, the CaliforniaFIRST financing program and lease or power-purchase agreements.

OAKLEY PRESS

OA KLEY

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Shaw Floors

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Brentwood (Next to Ace Hardware)

925-634-4111

www.nfsbrentwood.com

shawfloors.com

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HOME& GARDEN

NOTHING COMPARES TO COMING HOME TO A HOME YOU LOVE Everything about our two new Oakley communities — from the gourmet kitchens to the modern layouts and prime locations near the Delta — is designed to make you comfortable and glad to be home. Visit today and discover that nothing compares to a DeNova home.

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PMS 143

Warm Grey 11

*DeNova Homes reserves the right to make changes in price, materials and specifications without notice or liability for such changes. Approximate square footage.

Models shown do not indicate racial preference. Sales and marketing by DeNova Home Sales, BRE #01247582.