FALL
Home Improvement
FALL
Home Improvement
October 1, 2015
Two
FALL
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 1, 2015
Home Improvement
Prep Your Home For Winter And Reap Financial Benefits
I
f boots, a warm hat and a tuned-up snow blower are the only items on your winter preparation list, your home maintenance plan may need a makeover. These simple home maintenance projects can help lower your energy bills, prevent more costly repairs and/ or increase the lifespan of your home. 1. Heating & Ventilation — Examine your fireplace and chimney system to ensure that no soot or creosote has collected. Any cracks or voids could potentially cause a fire. Before you turn the furnace or boiler on, replace the air filter and hire a professional to inspect the unit more thoroughly. These steps will improve the efficiency and life of your furnace and will ensure stable indoor air quality. 2. Seal Windows and Doors — If not properly sealed, windows
and doors can be a major culprit for heat loss. To keep the warm air inside, inspect the weatherstripping around your home’s windows and doors for leaks, rot or decay. Repair or replace structural framing, and caulk inside and out, if necessary. 3. Insulate well — One of the easiest and most effective defenses against heat loss is proper insulation. Prevent cold drafts from entering and the loss of heated air through basement headers, which, when left exposed, can make your furnace work harder. Look for a moisture-resistant product offering high thermal performance, such as Roxul Comfortbatt insulation. This type of mineral wool insulation makes installation simple. All that’s needed is a serrated blade or bread knife. Cut the batt to fit the cavity and press into place. The insulation will help improve energy efficiency as soon as it’s in place and provide savings over the lifetime of your home. Comfortbatt can also be used to top or replace old attic insulation. Aim for an R-50 or a depth of 16 inches. 4. Backyard Care — Save your property from potential damage by trimming overgrown trees and shrubs to prevent ice-laden branches from thrashing against electrical wires and your home’s exterior. Drain/shut off any exterior faucets and sprinkler systems to prevent freezing. Ensure rain or snow drains away from the house to avoid foundation problems. 5. Roof and Gutters — Inspect
your roof for shingles that are warped, damaged or even missing to prevent a future leak. Use roofing cement and a caulking gun to seal joints where water could penetrate, such as around the chimney, skylights or vent pipes. Make sure that your gutters and downspouts are securely fastened. Downspouts should extend at least five feet away from the home to prevent flooding. When it comes to preventative maintenance, a little time and effort can save thousands in energy costs and repair bills over the lifetime of your home.
Tackle These Weekend Projects
S
ome home renovation projects require the expertise of professionals, but there also are many ways for homeowners to improve their homes without hiring a pro or spending too much money. The following are a handful of DIY renovation projects homeowners can tackle in a typical weekend. •Closet conversion: Ample closet space is a big plus for home buyers, but upon moving into a new home, many homeowners may find they don’t need as much closet space as they initially thought. Guest room walk-in closets, in particular, may prove to be under-utilized resources. Such closets often come with builtin shelving and, therefore, they make ideal spaces to convert to mini home offices or study areas for kids. Installing an extra shelf to serve as a desk area for remote working or homework stations won’t take up much of a Saturday See ACCENT, page 10
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 1, 2015
Three
Home Improvement job done right. Choose a qualified contractor It is important for consumers to do their research when it comes to siding materials and contractors. A contractor who takes shortcuts or improperly installs the siding may void a manufacturer’s warranty. Always ask family members and friends for recommendations before choosing a contractor, and check out each prospective contractor’s work for yourself. Interview more than one contractor and compare both their costs and what they offer. Ask plenty of questions of the contractors, and avoid those who try hard-sell methods. Questionable contractors may try strategies like a promise of a considerable discount if you “act now” or scare tactics that your home is unsafe in
Update Your Siding This Season
F
ew home improvements can transform a home more than the installation of new siding. Replacing siding can be a costly venture, but the right siding will maintain its appeal for years to come. Updated siding can improve a
home’s energy value by enabling owners to save on heating and cooling costs. A new design and color also can improve a home’s property value and set it apart from neighboring properties. According to the Professional Builder’s Home Exteriors Survey, ex-
terior design and materials used are a top priority for new home buyers. Project costs depend on the size of the home as well as which siding material homeowners choose. Considering new siding is a major renovation, it pays to get the
its present condition. Be sure the contractor carries general liability insurance as well as workers’ compensation insurance for their subcontractors. Ask for a license number as well and verify its accuracy. Select a durable material Siding comes in all types of materials — from wood to plastic to fiber cement — but vinyl is among the most popular due to cost and availability. Research how well particular brands of siding stand up to conditions and which are the least likely to crack, warp or discolor. Find this information from online reviews or through consumer advocacy groups. Also remember, vinyl and other synthetic materials have See KNOW, page 15
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FALL
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 1, 2015
Four
Home Improvement
Put Your Basement On The “To-Do” List This Fall
Don’t Ignore Car Care As Winter Approaches
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T
he start of a new season is the perfect time to check some tasks off of your “to-do” list — whether it’s to get in shape or tackle at-home projects. If you’re planning on making some simple but effective changes at home, here are some tips on how to give your basement a total 180-degree makeover. Soundproof it Installing acoustic insulation is the perfect excuse to crank up the subwoofer, host a gettogether or let the kids run wild. Soundproofing is the ultimate solution to maximize your basement’s peace, quiet and privacy. Industry experts suggest using Roxul Safe n’ Sound, which effectively absorbs sound and is easy to work with. Out with the old, in with a floor Installing a new floor or updating the existing one can improve the overall comfort level and look of your basement. Many unfinished basements have basic concrete flooring, which is cold year-round. Flooring options are endless — hardwood, laminate, cork and Berber flooring all add warmth to a basement bedroom or TV room; play mats are great for kids’ playrooms; and carpets are perfect to make any room feel more comfy and welcoming. See USE, page 14
all is a time to prepare homes, vehicles and even our psyches for the arrival of winter. To get your car cold-weather ready, check and repair these items now. •Tire pressure can drop in cold weather. When tires are underinflated you lose fuel efficiency, so monitor and maintain tire pressure throughout the winter. •Those who live in particularly cold climates should switch from all-season to winter tires. Much as you wear winter boots to provide more traction and protection than sneakers, so should you equip your vehicle with tires that will stand up to winter terrain. •Check on the status of your battery and its starting power. Cold weather can put more strain on a car battery. A battery that is already weak may not turn over when you need it most. •Replace worn wiper blades and upgrade to a windshield fluid that is rated for subzero temperatures. Each of these items will improve visibility
when winter precipitation is making its presence felt. •Schedule an oil change at the beginning of winter. Dirty oil can hinder cold-weather starts and, if coupled with low coolant levels, can make it difficult for the engine to turn over. •Keep jumper cables, a battery booster pack and warning cones in your vehicle. These can come to the rescue if your battery dies and you’re stranded on the side of the road. •While you’re stocking the trunk or cargo bed, include a shovel, sand or cat litter, a flashlight, an ice scraper, water, and a blanket. These are good emergency items to have in the event your car breaks down in the winter. You can dig your tires out of a snow drift with the shovel and apply litter to increase traction. The blanket will come in handy if you have to sit in a cold car for a while awaiting roadside service. •Consider taking a winter driving course. Icy, snowy conditions completely change the defensive tactics needed to navigate the roads. A prepared driver is one who is more likely to avoid accidents and make it home safely.
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FALL
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 1, 2015
Five
Home Improvement
Cleanup Up Your Yard, Donate Old Clothing This Autumn ing shingles. In addition, look for spots where animals or insects may be able to gain entry into your home. Seal these areas and repair any leaks. This will make your home more efficient later on when winter hits its stride. Remove window air condition-
ers for the winter. If they can’t be removed, seal them with caulking or tape and cover them with an airtight, insulated jacket. If you have forced-air systems, move furniture away from the vents so that air can flow better around the home and keep it comfortable.
Check weatherstripping around windows and doors and make the necessary adjustments. Installing additional insulation also can help reduce energy consumption. A few tips can help homeowners prepare for autumn in ecofriendly ways.
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A
utumn is upon us, and with the change of seasons comes the fall to-do list that must be completed before the arrival of winter weather. Many outdoor jobs are best completed before temperatures drop, while others can be tackled indoors to help save energy and prepare for increased time spent inside the home.
necessary nutrients and organic matter to the soil naturally. Leaves also can be used in annual flower and vegetable gardens to improve the soil. Mulch made from shredded leaves can be placed on the soil around trees and shrubs. This helps to reduce weed problems and protects root systems from harsh temperature fluctuations.
Outdoor cleanup Autumn means leaves are falling from trees and littering landscapes. Cleaning up leaves can be a time-consuming task, but it’s necessary to promote the health of lawns and other plants. Grass that is completely matted down with leaves can become starved for light and moisture, and lawns may even rot when forced to spend winter beneath fallen leaves. One eco-friendly timesaver is to shred leaves with a mower (a manual mower is preferable) and leave them as topdressing for the lawn. As long as the grass blades can be seen within the leaves, the lawn should be fine. Shredded leaves will decompose and add
Clothing donations It’s time to pack away summer clothing and once again fill closets and drawers with sweaters and jeans. Before packing away your summer wardrobe, conduct an inventory to determine if there are any items you no longer use. Donate these items or use them as rags when cleaning. Keep some short-sleeved shirts accessible so you can layer them under sweatshirts and sweaters. The heat from layering will be trapped against your body and keep you cozier, reducing your reliance on HVAC systems to stay warm.
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FALL
the cheshire herald, OCTOBER 1, 2015
Six
Home Improvement
Make Your Home Disaster-Proof
T
he calamities caused by extreme weather could be better controlled with stepped-up storm predic-
tion, better citizen preparedness and by the ongoing ingenuity of the building sector, say observers in the field of climate change.
Governments, for example, are improving public warning systems and municipal infrastructure maintenance is an ongoing prior-
Kitchen Design GALLERY
ity. As a direct result of extreme wind, fire and flooding, the damage costs on both public and private buildings in North America are expected to keep tallying into the billions of dollars — but there is good news. Builders already have the technology and means to construct disaster-resilient homes. “Now you can build a house with hurricane and tornado windresistance up to 250 miles per hour,” says Keven Rector at Nudura, the manufacturer of an advanced design for ICFs—insulated concrete forms. “As compared to wood, concrete walls stand up to the strongest winds and they are also far more sound-resistant, fire-resistant, and give homeowners significant energy savings and occupant health benefits as well.” The construction system works like this: At the building site, the ICFs interlock (like Lego) to create one thick monolithic wall. The assembly is quick, creates
less waste and, according to Rector, this type of insulation material can save you up to 50 percent on your energy bills. “ICF home-building technology is solving storm security, energy costs, interior air quality, and occupant conservation priorities all at the same time,” he continues. “In addition to greater impact resilience and a fire-protection rating of up to four hours, concrete buildings are more comfortable to live in. For example, eliminated will be the uneven temperatures and drafts we’ve come to tolerate living inside wood framing. And since the walls are less prone to mold and toxins, the household air will remain reliable and easier to breathe. This rock solid envelope keeps more noise outside, requires far less energy for heating and cooling inside and, by leaving more trees in the forests, every homeowner will be making See CONCRETE, page 12
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FALL
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 1, 2015
Seven
Home Improvement
Take Steps To Protect Your House From Fire Hazards
A
n average of seven Americans die each week as a result of house fires. Most fires occur in residential buildings between the hours of 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., when occupants are most likely to be asleep. Your first line of defense is fire preparedness. Here’s five things you can do to increase your chance of survival in a fire: •Install smoke alarms on every story of your home and outside
sleeping areas. Be sure to test them monthly, clean them every six months and replace batteries in spring and fall. Having working fire alarms can cut your chance of dying in a fire in half! •Have a fire escape plan for your family and practice it. A small fire can spread rapidly — you may only have minutes or seconds to escape. When going over the details of your escape plan, check windows and doors to ensure all open easily. Know your
local emergency number (911). Never stop to gather belongings or reenter a home after safely outside. •When renovating, consider using fire-rated, noncombustible products. Your choice of insulation, for example, can be vital. Stone wool insulation, like that produced by Roxul, resists temperatures up to approximately 2,150 F. When directly exposed to fire, it will not off-gas, conSee PLACE, page 15
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FALL
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 1, 2015
Eight
Home Improvement
Take Advantage Of Retail Sales
F
all can be an ideal time of year for homeowners to tackle home improvement projects, as the moderate temperatures make for ideal conditions to work in and around the house. In addition, many retailers offer consumer-friendly sales in autumn, helping homeowners to save money. As early as September, many stores begin stocking their shelves in advance of the holiday season. As a result, stores look to unload summer and fall seasonal
items. The following are just a few types of items homeowners might find at reduced prices this fall. Lawn and garden If you want to revamp your backyard, wait until late summer or early autumn to do so. At this time of year, you can find great deals on patio furniture, lawn mowers, perennials, shrubs, sheds, and many other lawn and garden items. In addition, check with local contractors to see if
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they will offer discounts late in the season. Tree-removal companies, landscapers, fence installers, masons, and others may cut prices in mid- to late-autumn as they look to earn a bit more money before the arrival of winter. Snow removal Retailers looking to move snow blowers, shovels and other winter accessories may offer teaser deals to attract customers. It’s best to purchase such tools now before the first big storm drives up demand. Cooking appliances Manufacturers typically introduce new stoves, cooktops and other cooking supplies in advance of the holiday season. Older models may be discounted to make room for the new arrivals, and you may be able to score even bigger savings on floor models. If renovating the kitchen is in the works, wait until early autumn to start appliance shopping. Painting supplies The weekends surrounding Labor Day and Columbus Day are
also great times to find deals on home improvement, as retailers know customers have extra time to complete projects during these long weekends. Paint, rollers and other supplies may be discounted on such weekends, and you also may find discounts on power tools.
your home improvement project supplies, autumn is a good time to visit a dealership. Many dealerships liquidate their inventory in autumn to free up space for new model releases about to hit the market. Come autumn, you may find it easier to negotiate financ ing and leasing deals. Homeowners can save on home improvement projects and other needs by taking advantage of late summer, early-autumn discounts.
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FALL
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 1, 2015
Home Improvement
Time To Design Your Home Office
A
s technology has made working remotely easier, more and more professionals are working from home. Working from home can help working parents save money on childcare costs and help all workers avoid rush hour traffic jams and the costs of commuting to and from the office. The right working environment is essential for men and women who work from home. An environment that’s conducive to work can help people increase their productivity and make their employers more likely to allow more employees to work from home. Professionals who are new to working from home may find it takes some time before they can create the perfect working environment, but the following are a few factors to consider
when planning a home office. Space One of the disadvantages to working from home is that remote workers don’t have access to the same level of equipment as in the main office, such as color copiers or scanners. If you want to include even scaled-down versions of such equipment in your office, you will need ample space. In addition, less spacious home offices can feel too tight and enclosed, making workers uncomfortable and less enthusiastic about working every day. Pick a spot in your home that affords room for your equipment and the ability to move around so you don’t feel cramped throughout the workday. Lighting
Nine
Lighting is another factor remote workers must consider when they’re planning their home offices. Natural light can provide an energetic boost and improve your mood, so choose a room in your home that gets lots of sunlight during the day. Many professionals who work remotely do so from the basements of their homes, which can make it difficult to rely on natural light. If the basement is the only location in your home that can fit a home office, look for lighting sources that replicate daylight so you are not working in dark quarters. Speak with your physician about how to arrange lighting to reduce eyestrain caused by staring at a computer.
Connectivity Connectivity also must be considered when planning a home office. While wireless Internet has made Internet dead zones less problematic, certain areas or rooms in your home may still be touch-and-go with regard to Internet connectivity. Such areas should be avoided when choosing a room for your home office, as it can be difficult to remain productive if your connection to your office’s external server is routinely compromised. Find an area where the wireless connection is always strong. Distractions While your home might be
empty for much of the day, you don’t want to be distracted when the kids come home from school or when your spouse or roommate arrives home from work. Avoid putting your home office too close to popular hangout areas in your home, such as the kitchen and the living room. Instead, choose a room where you have lots of privacy so you can focus on your work and won’t be routinely interrupted. Working from home can pay numerous dividends, but professionals who telework must put careful thought into the rooms or areas of their homes where they plan to work.
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FALL
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 1, 2015
Ten
Home Improvement
Research Before Buying Appliances
A
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yth #1 Open Sunday We will install your whole house for $39.” Do you really believe 10:00 - 3:00 2014 at’s all they are charging? It’s a shell game! They increase the Myth and #1 pad #1 CUSTOMER SERVICE A+ Rating ce of the carpet to IN cover the $39 “charge” of installation. “We will install your whole house for $39.” Do you really believe yth #2 that’s all they are charging? It’s a shell game! They increase the uy one roomprice of carpet and get twotorooms free.” Anotherof shell of the carpet and pad the $39 “charge” LAMINATE CARPET cover CERAMIC WOODinstallation. VINYL me, probablyMyth the#2most outrageous lie. Nothing is free! Who’s Vinyl Ceramic two rooms free.” Another shell ying for that “Buy ad?one room of carpet and get Vinyl SALE Grade IV orthe V most outrageous game, probably lie. SUPER Nothing is free! Who’s yth #3 Tarket Fiberglass Flooring Commercial paying for that ad? uy one roomMyth of carpet and I’ll doThicker your whole neighborhood for - More Comfortable Ceramic #3 100that Tiles Choose ee.” I just threw into because “they” believe Stands up to“you” for “Buy one room of carpetevidently and I’ll do your whole neighborhood $ Installed free.” I justS/Fthrew that in becauseWater evidently&“they” believe “you” 9.50 Moisture ll believe anything!
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s the weather turns cooler, outdoor improvements become less practical. Homeowners’ thoughts may turn to projects they can tackle inside of the home. Now may be the time to consider the purchase of new appliances that can be the finishing touches to renovated spaces. Fall is prime time to purchase new large appliances. Manufacturers typically unveil their latest models during September and October. At this point, prices on older models will be reduced to make room for new ones. By the end of the year, any older models that have not yet been cleared out will be discounted further. Even though the end-of-the year deals will be better, the selection may be limited the longer you wait. It is best never to wait until an appliance is on its last leg for repair or replacement. Then consumers do not have the luxury
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Research Shoppers should begin their research at home before they even enter a store. Make a list of features you want in the appliance, which helps narrow down the playing field and better focus your purchasing decisions. Once you have a list handy, speak with friends or family members about their experiences with brands and/or retailers. Ask about which features they like the most and how often they have had to call for repairs. If they could do things differently, what would those things be? Know your space Perhaps you are familiar with the adage to measure twice and cut once. The same can be said for measuring prior to purchasing an appliance. Be sure you know the exact measurements of the space that will house the new appliance. Take into consideration the clearance needed to open doors, such as with a refrigerator or frontloading washing machine. It can be a waste of time and money to have an appliance delivered only to find it doesn’t fit at the time of installation. Energy savings Consider appliances that reduce energy usage. Energy Star® appliances are produced in adherence to international standards for energy efficiency. The program was started more than 20 years ago by the EPA and the Department of Energy. Since then, other countries have adopted the program. Appliances that feature the
Luncheon Entries:
to price shop nor find items that include the features they desire most. Here are some other buying tips.
Energy Star® logo use 20 to 30 percent less energy than required by typical federal standards. Homeowners who purchase qualifying appliances may be eligible for tax breaks and other incentives. Consider your lifestyle It is easy to be overwhelmed and awestruck by the number of appliances available. You may desire the biggest and best there is, but if you are not a superstar in the kitchen, you may not need the commercial stove. A bachelor may not require an oversized washing machine. Do your research and comparison shop so you won’t have any regrets later on.
Accent Walls, Art Can Go A Long Way continued from page 2
or Sunday afternoon and, before you know it, you will have a fully functioning workspace. •Accent wall: Accent walls can liven up a room by breaking the color pattern of the walls in the room. Accent walls also can be used to divert attention on a particular design element in a room, such as a painting or an elaborate wall furnishing. Painting an accent wall won’t take very long, but such a project can give a room an entirely new look and feel. •Driveway: If weather permits, repaving an asphalt driveway can be an ideal weekend project, especially if an existing driveway has endured its fair share of wear and tear. Many driveways can be paved anew in a single day, but larger driveways or those that have endured an extraordinary amount of wear and tear may take a couple of days. •Storage and shelving: Much like some homes come with an abundance of storage areas, others fall short of homeowners’ or apartment dwellers’ needs. If your home or apartment falls into the latter category, adding some shelving or finding some new furniture that can serve double duty as storage areas is a weekend project that can help clear up some space. Purchase some wood shelving from a local furniture retailer to mimic the look of traditional built-ins or replace existing single-use furniture with newer items capable of serving multiple functions, including storage. •Art: If the rooms and hallways in your home are bare or in need of new looks but your budget is tight, try your hand at spicing things up by creating some of your own paintings. Parents can encourage kids to create their own colorful masterpieces. Frame the finished works and hang them on the wall and enjoy your inexpensive and homemade “art gallery.”
FALL
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 1, 2015
Eleven
Home Improvement
Expand Your Home Into The Garage
M
any people decide to upgrade from their apartments or condominiums out of a need for more space. But even after moving into a new home, homeowners may soon begin to outgrow the room they have. Rather than looking for a new home, some homeowners consider expansion. Expanding a living space can be expensive, and a more affordable option may be converting existing basement or garage space into something more livable. Garages already are built on a foundation, have four walls and a roof overhead, so a garage-conversion project is merely a matter of turning this utilitarian area into a living space. Before beginning the renovation, homeowners should consider the benefits versus the cost of converting the garage. For
those who are planning to grow old in a house, a garage conversion can be a worthy investment. But those who intend to sell their homes rather than retire in them may learn that a converted garage can affect home value and make it less desireable at resale. Compare your home to others in the area and see what your neighbors have done. If converted garages are the norm where you live, your own renovation may fit in with others. Always apply for the proper
permits and learn the zoning laws to see if a garage conversion is acceptable in your town or city. It’s best to go by the book so that work can be done in a proper manner and be inspected for safety. Many homeowners hope their garage-conversion projects will make their garages seem like a seamless part of the rest of the house. To do so, you will need to remove evidence the space was once a garage. Slab floor will need to be raised and insulated. Walls also will need to be insulated and finished to improve comfort and soundproofing. Many garages do not have windows, so for the garage to function as a renovated space, windows may need to be added. One of the biggest transformations will come by way of modifying the garage door entry. Some homeowners prefer to leave the existing door so that the home still has the appearance of a garage from the curb, while oth-
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the driveway end at the wall of a home, shrubbery, pavers and other techniques can blend the garage renovation into the rest of the yard design. Transforming a garage into a living space can add several hundred square feet to a home. Hire a reputable contractor and follow the municipal guidelines for modifying the space to ensure the job is done right.
Give That Aging Sofa A Makeover
C
ouches are an important component of living rooms and dens, serving as comfortable places to relax. Sofas will be sat on, slept on and, if young children are in the house, sometimes jumped on. Homeowners looking for new sofas often prioritize comfort, but they also want a sofa that can withstand the test of time. Although See A, page 15
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FALL
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 1, 2015
Twelve
Home Improvement
Some Tips On Improving Indoor Air Quality
H
omes tend to be stuffier in autumn and winter. As temperatures outside dip, windows are closed and air quality inside homes can suffer. Poor indoor air quality can not only be uncomfortable, causing residents to experience headaches, dry eyes and nasal congestion, but also can be unhealthy. According to the American Lung Associa-
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tion, poor indoor air quality can cause or contribute to the development of infections, lung cancer and chronic lung diseases, such as asthma. Though it’s not feasible or healthy to open windows when temperatures outside dip to near or below freezing, there are steps everyone can take to improve the indoor air quality in their homes. • Add to your décor with plants. Plants provide both aesthetic and practical appeal to a home’s interior. Houseplants can clean and purify the air in a home, helping to remove formaldehyde, benzene and other toxins that can make indoor air unhealthy to breathe. Benzene is an irritant that can cause dizziness, headache, nausea, and blurred vision, among other side effects. Formaldehyde, which is often found in homes thanks to its widespread use in a range of products, can cause watery eyes, nausea and wheezing. • Watch what you are lighting up. Many homeowners know that smoking indoors drastically reduces indoor air quality, putting even nonsmokers at heightened risk of developing various respiratory ailments. Homeowners
concerned about the indoor air quality in their homes should ban smoking inside, no matter how low temperatures dip outside. In addition, homeowners with wood-burning stoves and fireplaces should be especially diligent maintaining these features, as they can release harmful soot and smoke if they are not taken care of. Some people may also be allergic to incense and scented candles, so keep a watchful eye on residents and guests whenever you light candles or sticks of incense. If any symptoms of allergies appear, avoid lighting any more candles or incense, waiting until you can open the windows if you want to light any again. • Purchase an air purifier. Air purifiers are beneficial yearround, helping to remove allergens and particles from a home. High-efficiency particulate air filters, known as HEPA filters, are extremely effective at removing airborne particulates from the air inside your home. • Pay attention to pets. Like their owners, pets tend to spend more time indoors during the winter. That means more fur and pet dander, the skin flakes in an
animal’s fur or hair that can trigger allergic reactions, is likely in your home during the winter than in the summer. To combat this, bathe your pets regularly in the winter, making sure to wash the animal’s bedding in hot water on a weekly basis as well. • Open the windows when possible. Winter does not typically provide many opportunities to open the windows, but you might get a few chances to let some fresh air in through the windows during winter. Make the most of these opportunities, and when possible crack the windows when you’re cleaning so dust and other particles that kick up have a path outside of your home. Clean interior air should be a year-round priority, but homeowners may have to go the extra mile to keep their homes’ interior air clean when winter arrives.
Concrete Homes Provide Style As Well As Safety continued from page 6
such a sound contribution to the sustainability of the planet.” Concrete homes are visually beautiful as well, Rector points out. Choose a finish on the outside like stone, wood siding, stucco, and other aesthetic touches. And on the inside, many innovative architectural shapes like arches, bay windows, and decorative door styles can be easily designed. “Be sure to request ICFs from your builder early in the planning stages,” he adds. “The system is well over a decade in use, but builders usually default to the standard construction methods if not asked.”
FALL
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 1, 2015
Thirteen
Home Improvement
How To Keep Your Shed Organized
D
espite other intentions, homeowners often turn their garages into storage centers for random, little-used items, leaving little to no room for the tools and even vehicles that actually belong in a garage. Such homeowners may turn to sheds to store their garage overflow and keep yard equipment at the ready, but storage sheds are not immune to clutter, and homeowners may find the very structure erected to keep them organized requires a bit of organization itself. A well-organized shed can save homeowners time and energy, as it’s easy to abandon or delay a project if you can’t find that pair of work gloves you stashed. The first step to any organizing project is to take everything out of the shed and determine just what needs to go back in. Items that do not belong in the shed should be moved to their rightful locations or tossed in the trash if they’re no longer needed. Make a pile of anything that will be kept, a separate one for donations and a third for garbage. Take inventory of what you have so you know whether you’re missing any items or you have something and do not need to purchase another. Now that the entire shed is empty, you can assess just how much room you have. Utilizing vertical and overhead space effectively can free up areas on the floor for larger equipment. Shelving, racks, pegboards and any other materials that enable you to hang or store items off the floor are good investments. Visit your nearby home improvement retailer to find items that can simplify your storage. You also may be able to put scrap wood to use to make your own storage shelves or a work bench. Extra kitchen cabinets can be installed in the shed to organize additional items. In order to remember where items go, label or sort them accordingly. Some people like to take organization a step further
by tracing the outline of tools hung on the wall so they can be placed back in the same spot after use. This also serves as a visual reminder of which tools are missing and which ones need to be purchased. Don’t forget to utilize shed doors as additional storage space. Hang frequently used tools, such as rakes and shovels, on the inside of the doors so they will always be easily accessible. You also can repurpose storage solutions designed for other areas of the home. For example, magnetic knife holders can be mounted to a shed wall to keep paintbrushes organized. These holders also can be used to keep many small metal tools tidy. Metal funnels can hold twine and string. Thread through the narrow end
of the funnel for a handy dispenser. Keep dangerous substances off the floor and out of reach. Gasoline, chemical fertilizers and other potentially dangerous substances should be stored high up to keep pets and children safe. Make sure the shed floor is sturdy and level. This makes it easier to neatly store larger items. Roll in the lawnmower, wheelbarrow and any other cumbersome items. Now that more things are mounted vertically, you should find that you have more area to move around. Taking the time to clean and organize a shed can help make anyone more productive.
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FALL
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 1, 2015
Fourteen
Home Improvement
Small Steps Can Make Big Difference In Energy Efficiency
F
all and winter can be tough on your home and your wallet. As tem-
peratures drop, chances are your furnace will be working overtime. This results in two things
— greater energy consumption and higher heating bills. In fact, costs associated with heating and cooling a home year-round typically comprise two-thirds of the average energy bill. Try these easy DIY projects to help cut down on energy loss and expenses: 1. Replace worn weather-stripping around doors and windows. Worn weather-stripping can create drafts and let heated air out, stressing your furnace and compromising your comfort. Replacing them takes a short amount of time and is a low-cost, high-impact solution. 2. Top up or replace old insulation in your attic. A poorly insulated attic is a primary source of energy loss. Also, over time,
some types of insulation can settle and compact, allowing heat to escape through gaps. Experts recommend topping up or replacing attic insulation with a dimensionally stable batt insulation like Roxul Comfortbatt. Aim for an Rvalue of at least R-50 or a depth of roughly 16 inches. 3. Insulate basement headers and walls. Uninsulated basement headers are common, especially in older homes. They can act as a gateway for heated air to escape. Fixing the problem is fast and easy. Simply cut Comfortbatt mineral wool insulation to fit the cavity and compress into place. Doing this throughout your base-
ment will prevent heat loss and can potentially save hundreds of dollars each year. 4. Caulk around windows. Cracks and crevices are a source of heat loss. They can also be an entry point for water/moisture, as well as for unwelcome insects. Preventative maintenance, such as caulking, can improve energy efficiency and prevent costly repairs. 5. Change your furnace filter. Make it a point to check your furnace filter monthly, always changing it when it’s dirty. This will improve the performance and efficiency of your furnace, saving you money.
Use Paint Colors, Accessories continued from page 4
Get creative with a fresh coat of paint Transform the dull and boring space into an inviting entertainment oasis or a colorful playroom with a simple coat of paint. When considering the paint, think about what color will compliment your existing furniture. To add some drama, consider adding depth and visual interest to your space with a different colored accent wall. Accessorize it Throw pillows, rugs, lighting, and artwork are simple additions that can immediately enhance or change your basement’s look and feel. Pot lights can modernize, while art work and throw pillows can add a splash of color. Decide on a theme and color scheme for your room and keep your eye out for staple pieces that will make it feel like an entirely new space. Scott McGillivray is the award-winning TV host, a full-time real estate investor, contractor, author, and educator. Follow him on Twitter @smcgillivray.
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FALL
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 1, 2015
Fifteen
Home Improvement
A Simple Cleaning Can Help Spruce Up Your Old Couch continued from page 11
there's no magic formula, a sturdy sofa should have a lifespan of around 10 years. According to Houzz, quality sofas should feel solid and heavy. They should have joints that are double doweled and fitted with corner blocks that are both glued and screwed
(not stapled) into place. Over time, even the sturdiest couch can start to show its age and look a bit past its prime. Don't fret. There are some easy ways to give that aging sofa a makeover. Begin by reviewing the service agreement. If you purchased an extended warranty or protection plan on the furniture, you may
be eligible for repairs at no cost. Stores will restrict just what is covered under such service plans, and regular wear and tear may be excluded. However, rips, certain stains or opening seams may be eligible for repair. Covered costs means not having to spend any money out of pocket. Cleaning may be another sim-
Know Your Budget Before Starting A Project continued from page 3
improved and can now mimic the look of many other materials for
Place Fire Extinguishers Throughout Home
continued from page 7
tribute to toxic smoke or promote flames. Fire-resistant building materials can give you extra time to escape when seconds count. •Purchase a multi-use fire ladder for each bedroom in your home and practice using it. A fire ladder may be your only escape option if flames block critical exits. •Place fire extinguishers on every level of your home, especially in high-risk areas like the kitchen, near fireplaces and in the garage. Use only for small, contained fires that are not spreading rapidly. Know how to operate your extinguisher before an emergency occurs using the PASS method: Pull pin, Aim low, Squeeze lever and Sweep from side to side. The safest option is always to evacuate your home and call for help. Fire prevention measures are a serious matter in every home. Find out how to keep your home and family safe at nfpa.org.
a fraction of the cost. Calculate how much you need Before you price out siding with contractors, estimate how much you will need for your house. Consumer Reports suggests multiplying the height times the width of each rectangular section of your house in feet, going by what you can measure from the ground, to determine their areas. Multiply the approximate height and width of gables and other triangular surfaces and divide each total by two. Then add
all the totals. To allow for waste, don’t subtract for doors, windows or other areas that won’t be covered. Finally, divide the total square footage by 100 to estimate how many squares of siding you will need. A square represents 100 square feet. Knowing how much you need can save you money. Vinyl siding can completely transform the look of a home and make it more energy efficient. Consumers who do their homework will get the best value for their investments.
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ple fix. Check with the manufacturer's guidelines for cleaning. Certain fabrics require specific cleaning solutions. If you are ever unsure about what to use to clean the sofa, use a mild solution of soap and water in an inconspicuous spot first. Many carpet and upholstery cleaning solutions can be used on furniture. Use sparingly and test for color-fastness before cleaning the entire couch. For those who are skittish about cleaning the sofa on their own, consult with a professional upholstery cleaning service. Slipcovers are another option to revitalizing the look of an aging sofa. Fitted slipcovers slide right over the existing couch cushions and can change an outdated sofa into one that looks brand new. Measuring correctly and buying
accordingly will help achieve a seamless look. There also are some easy doit-yourself fixes for couches that may be sagging or looking deflated. If seat cushions can be removed, consider placing firm cardboard or wood on top of the springs to provide more firmness. Cushions may begin to sag when the springs underneath begin to lose their elasticity. If the cushions are the problem, replacing the foam in the cushions or the loose-fill stuffing in the pillows can breathe new life into the couch. Foam can begin to disintegrate and lose its shape and integrity. Craft stores, home improvement centers and fabric stores often carry foam products, but those you can't find might be available via online orders.
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Sixteen
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 1, 2015