Home and Garden (NW)

Oh, can you believe it? Spring is finally here. It feels as though we’ve waited so long for this – the most breathtaking of seasons.

I was out a few days ago enjoying the warmth in the air with my pug, Ricky.

Even he could feel something different that day.

He could feel the inviting warmth of a new season – a new beginning.

Spring is the most exciting season.

It’s a time for new beginnings, whether that be for our lives, our homes or our yards.

This year’s Spring Home & Garden is sure to offer some wonderful inspiration for your remodeling and planting projects.

Each page blooms with wonderful information on local businesses that are here to help you through the process.

Melissa Hayden Specialty Publications Editor mhayden@communitypress.com | 248-7121

Features 3

Greening the kitchen

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Expert tips for creating a beautiful landscape

Go Green with eco-friendly cabinetry – it’s no longer a passing fad.

Increase the value and beauty of your home with expert tips.

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Bring spring into your home

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Early gardening

Inexpensive ways to add a touch of the season of new beginnings.

Bring the outdoors into your home this spring.

Featured businesses Seibel’s Cabinets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Nature’s Corner Greenhouses . . . . . . . . . . .5 IC Repairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Splendid Spaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Contact Spring Home & Garden is an annual advertising-sponsored magazine published by the Specialty Publications Department of The Community Press/ The Community Recorder.

Questions and comments can be sent to Editor Melissa Hayden c/o The Community Press/394 Wards Corner/Loveland, OH 45140 or e-mail mhayden@communitypress.com.

For advertising information call 8536270.

Dick Scott Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Artisan Restoration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Roof Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Economy Glass and Window . . . . . . . . . .12 Riley’s Pool & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Ceramic Tile Outlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 White Oak Lawnmower . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Affordable Comfort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 USA Insulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

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Greening the kitchen up with eco-friendly cabinetry Homeowners embarking on a kitchen remodel typically must select the style, the quality of craftsmanship and the materials that meet their unique values and project goals. With the pressing need to increase energy efficiency and conserve resources, green remodeling continues to gain in popularity.

“Incorporating green elements into a kitchen remodel is no longer considered just a passing fad, but a way of life,” said Dick Titus, executive vice president of the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA). “Homeowners feel a social responsibility to choose products that are safe for the environment and their family’s welfare.”

Kitchen cabinets could take up as much as half of a kitchen renovation budget, so it’s vital for homeowners wanting to “green” their kitchens to choose a quality cabinet manufacturer with roots in environmental sustainability.

KCMA’s Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP) can simplify the quest. ESP enables cabinet manufacturers to demon-

strate their commitment to environmental sustainability and helps consumers easily identify environmentally friendly products. After meeting the certification requirements in areas such as product resource management, air quality, process resource management, environmental stewardship and community relations, companies earn the ESP seal to display on their products. As a criterion in the NAHB Green Building Standard, the first ANSI approved green building rating

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system for residential construction in the U.S., ESP sets the standard for homeowners looking to integrate affordable eco-friendly cabinets into their home.

ESP encourages the following practices by awarding points to manufacturers who qualify:

Certified by a recognized sustainable forestry program Wood products, especially cabinets, are an environmentally friendly choice for a number of

reasons. One reason is that wood is a naturally renewable resource, meaning new trees will grow in place of those that have already been harvested. ESP certification awards points to manufacturers who use wood in their cabinets that is certified through a recognized sustainable forestry program. Programs such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) put a label on their wood products to show consumers that the resources removed from the forest are at a level the forest is capable of renewing without damaging its future. In doing so, these practices preserve the environment and valuable forest resources.

Use of materials with low levels of formaldehyde To earn points in ESP’s air quality category, manufacturers must prove that 80 percent of particleboard, medium density fiberboard, hardboard and plywood used in the cabinets meet the low formaldehyde emissions

See GREEN KITCHEN on page 9

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Spring Home & Garden

Custom designs, persnal service at fair prices The housing market is still not what it used to be, so many homeowners are choosing to stay put and remodel. At Seibel’s Cabinets you can get custom designs, outstanding personal service and fair prices.

Seibel’s Cabinets has a wide array of cabinets and countertops to choose from for your kitchen, bath or workspace.

Owners, Dave and Lisa Seibel will work with you to stay within your budget but still provide

you with quality materials.

During your free consultation, they can use their design software to show you a 3-D rendition of your space.

Dave Seibel started in the industry as a home builder in 1994 and then decided to focus on cabinets and countertops. In 2004, he and Lisa opened Seibel’s Cabinets on Harrison Avenue in the heart of Cheviot.

With Dave’s background he is able to coordinate the entire proj-

ect and he personally oversees every aspect from the electrical work to the plumbing to the installation of the very last cabinet. A recent client of Seibel’s, Lesa Carpenter, had granite countertops installed and remarked, “My neighbors were amazed that Dave took care of every little detail. The project could not have gone any smoother!”

Clients can stop by their showroom to see a complete line

of cabinets and accessories from the industry’s top manufacturers, as well as countertop options including solid surfaces, laminate, quartz and granite.

Their showroom is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. To set up an appointment call 389-1300 or for after hours call Dave’s cell phone at 236-7626. You can also visit their Web site at www.seibelscabinets.com.

Call 853-6270 to advertise in the Senior Living section of CreativeLiving next month.

Call 853-6370 to advertise in the 2011 Spring Home & Garden

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Nature’s Corner Greenhouses celebrates 35th Anniversary Nature’s Corner opened its doors for the first time on Oct. 15, 1975, as a tropical plan store on Glenway Avenue at Prout’s Corner. Houseplants, macrame’s, pet rocks, and paisley decor made this mid ’70s plant store a very current ‘happening’ place to shop.

The owner, Tom Oestreicher, had a passion for growing plants, a thirst for knowledge about plants and the willingness to talk at great lengths about them. A bond was formed with ever ‘plant lover’ customer and business relationships were based on solid foundations of mutual respect, quality products and true dollar value. That is still the foundation of Nature’s Corner 35 years later!

Lots of changes have occurred in the 35 year growth of Nature’s Corner. It’s location is now a sprawling 2-acre facility at 1029 Ebenezer Road, in Delhi Township. The wooden greenhouses here were of the original 69 greenhouses that gave Delhi the “Floral Paradise of the

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Nature’s Corner in 1988 when the property was purchased.

Midwest” title. Today the historic greenhouses are still used to grow thousands of annuals, perennials, herbs, vegetables, roses and aquatic plants for the retail public.

Like a caterpillar transforming into the butterfly, Nature’s Corner has undergone continuous change in order to stay fresh and competitive in today’s challenging business world. The once tattered and neglected greenhouses are now a colorful, fun and educating place to shop for almost any plant or gardening need.

The owner, Beth Oestreicher, has devoted herself to creating the most colorful, customer friendly retail greenhouses in the

Nature’s Corner in 2009.

Tristate area. “High quality plants, new to the trade or old favorites are grown right on our property,” said Beth. “We select our plant starts from the worldwide sources and grow them here so they readily adapt to our customers’ home conditions.”

The 35 years of change has kept Nature’s Corner constantly on the look-out for ‘what’s next.’

The welcome change, according to both Beth and Tom. “It’s what keeps us fresh and new. This year we have a new Web site which we are all excited about. It gives anyone a view of who and what we are. The Web site has specials, plant tips, coupons, pricing for 2010, infor-

mation about our employees and employment. Visit the Web site at www.naturescornerplants.com and let us know what you think.”

Beth and Tom would like to say “thank you” for your 35 years of support and letting them share with you.

They are grateful for each of their wonderful customers, new or old. They may have changed from their beginnings in 1975, but their business basics of friendship, courtesy, quality and value are still here and always will be!

Nature’s Corner will open for the season on Monday, March 29.

Come visit just in time for Easter!

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Spring Home & Garden

IC Repairs growing fast The best way to find a reliable home improvement company is to ask family and friends. IC Repairs is a fast growing home remodeling and handyman business because people are talking about them. And everything they have to say is positive!

IC Repairs, founded by west side resident Steve Accurso, provides a wide range of services including

interior and exterior painting, kitchen and bath remodels and general handyman home improvement services. Accurso’s one-on-one approach with clients has won him repeat business and many referrals.

Springtime is a busy time of year for IC with exterior freshening-up projects.

Homeowners are anxious to shake off their cabin fever and get outside to enjoy the

warm weather and their outside spaces. IC can help paint your porch, shed, house trim or front door.

They can also powerwash siding, decks and patios and repair any damages caused by the long winter months.

To learn more about IC Repairs or to schedule a free estimate on any of your home projects, visit their website at www.icrepairs.com or call 207-0974.

Freshen up your home for spring with Splendid Spaces Kim Wildenmann, interior designer and founder of Splendid Spaces, LLC offers ideas for simple changes that can freshen up your home for spring.

• Bring in fresh floral arrangements or silks that incorporate a “fresh from the garden look,” with wildflowers or herbs.

• Refresh furniture with new pillows in colorful fabrics.

• Replace heavy bedding with a light cotton comforter.

• Paint a room in a soothing shade of light gold, sage green, or aqua blue.

paint colors, furniture and accessories to designing window treatments, murals and total room additions or remodels.

Kim was on an award winning Homearama Simple changes can freshen up design team and has preyour home for spring. sented seminars at the Cincinnati Home and • Get ready for outGarden Show. door living with acrylic To learn more about infabrics. There are so many home consultations, visit styles now that have a her website at www. great look and wear well splendidspaces.com or for inside and out. call 941-0767.

Splendid Spaces, LLC Check out Kim’s blog, will help you with all of offering free design tips your design needs, and advice. including selection of

Dick Scott Plumbing knows plumbing inside and out MOTHER’S DAY CONTEST ANNOUNCEMENT!

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February 2008 • Kentucky

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Dick Scott knows plumbing – inside and outside, commercial, residential and industrial.

And for 44 years he has been serving the greater Cincinnati area for all of their plumbing needs.

Dick Scott Plumbing, founded in 1966 by its namesake is located at 619 Delhi Pike and is fully licensed and insured. Dick Scott, Master Plumber,

leads a team of experienced Journeymen Plumbers in providing the most reliable and comprehensive plumbing services.

Some of the services they provide are sewer tapping, water tapping, water heaters, boilers, fire hydrant work, sewer drains and backhoe work.

They are well experienced in full home remodels, commercial construction

and industrial projects.

Their showroom carries vanities, basic plumbing products and hard-tofind repair parts. They can also custom order any of your plumbing needs.

For more information, visit their website at www.dickscottplumbing.c om or call 921-2254 to schedule an appointment for any of your plumbing needs.

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Spring Home & Garden

Trust in the name that defines skilled craftsmen Every year hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage occur in the Cincinnati area as a result of fire, flood, storm or water damage.

If you are the unfortunate victim of such a catastrophic event, you will be glad to know that a local company stands ready to meet your needs.

Artisan Restoration has the skill and expertise to provide expedient services.

The professionals at Artisan Restoration are trained and certified in fire and water damage restoration.

Through years of expe-

rience and continued education in their field, they can perform all types of services from minor damages to complete structural repairs.

Artisan Restoration can also assist you with insurance claims by dealing directly with your adjuster.

They will provide complete detailed estimates that are required by your insurance company.

Artisan Restoration is a certified firm with the Institute of Inspection Cleaning & Restoration Certification and a member of the Better Business

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Bureau.

For your protection their employees are bonded and insured and all workmanship is guaranteed for two years.

Each and every job, regardless of its size, is treated with the same degree of service and professional craftsmanship.

When you’re in need of property repairs turn to the name you can trust – Artisan Restoration.

For more information call 451-0299 or visit www. artisanrestoration.com.

Twenty-four hour emergency service is also available by calling 314-5501.

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Spring Home & Garden

Expert tips for creating a beautiful landscape

It may be a little cool outside, but homeowners are already dreaming of creating beautiful garden settings around their homes come spring. Landscaping success doesn’t have to be hit or miss, and if it has been for you, it may be time to call in a professional landscape designer.

Why? Because in the long run, hiring a landscape designer can cost less than doing it yourself.

You’ll get a “doable” design created right the first time, saving you the cost of repeated tries at getting it right or planting the wrong plants in the wrong spots. A professional landscape designer envisions creative solutions to the most difficult outdoor challenges - problems they’ve more than likely solved before.

Plus, a high-quality landscape increases home sale prices up to 10.8 percent, compared to a home with a simply average landscape, according to the Journal of Environmental Horticulture.

Here are some tips from professional landscape designers to create your dream garden.

First, consider your space and any “issues” that it has. Hiding an unsightly air conditioning unit, adding privacy and changing boring views to beautiful ones are issues that landscape designers face with many clients.

“As a certified landscape designer through the Association of Professional Landscape Designers, I see the big picture,” said Boston-based landscape designer Maria von Brincken, APLD. “A designer sees the problems that you see, and often the ones you don’t, and can offer solutions to create beautiful, functional and earthy-friendly landscapes to add to your lives.”

Next, do your homework. Tear out favorite pictures from gardening magazines, and start making a file on what you would like for your dream garden.

While not everything might be possible for your garden, it will give your landscape designer a visual starting point. Don’t forget about hardscape such as patios, decks and fencing; designers can help with these also.

Take your time. Brincken warns of the temptation to impulsively buy plants at a garden center and attempt a garden make-over.

This can be a costly gamble for those without experience. Many homeowners find that it takes the help of a designer to create a well-planned landscape project that includes both plants and hardscape.

While there is a cost to hiring a landscape designer, it is ultimately more economical to work with an expert to create a plan specific to your yard. The project is completed in a timely manner and within budget when you take your time and create a landscape plan. Expect to spend about 10 percent of the total cost of the project on the design.

Consider what you want to achieve with your landscape.

“People are busy, and they want to have an outdoor space that makes them feel comfortable, not frustrated and worn out from gardening chores,” said Judy Nauseef, APLD, of Iowa City, Iowa, and president of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (www.apld.org).

“They also want to maximize their investment in their home,” she adds. ‘Having a well-

See LANDSCAPE on page 9

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Landscape Green kitchen |Eco-friendly cabinetry which have clear societal or charitable organizafrom page 3 Eco-friendly |Expert tips levelContinued benefits. tions and observe all fedmanufacturing process of the California Air Continued from page 8

designed landscape gives the homeowner more living space and also helps with resale value.”

Research and reach out to a few landscape designers. Be sure to interview several designers to find one who meets your needs and personality. Review the portfolio or Web site of each designer, and visit some of their work if possible. Finally, if you have a budget in mind, share this with the designer up front.

Get ready to get dirty.

“You can hire a landscape designer for a range of services. You might choose to hire a designer for a two hour consultation for ideas and suggestions that you might implement yourself,” said Patricia St. John, APLD, of Berkeley, Calif., and APLD incoming president. “You could also hire a designer to give you a complete design for your garden. When it comes to implementing the design you have choices -involve the designer while you hire a recommended landscape contractor or even do some of the work yourself.”

Also, you do not have to complete the whole plan at once. A landscape can be installed over a period of time as well.

Homeowners can decide what areas are most important and start there.

Take the first step to a dream garden. With the help of a professional landscape designer, you can create a plan that will work for your landscape and you. Finding a designer is easy: visit www.apld.org.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Resources Board (CARB) Compwood ATCM. Such materials must be thirdparty certified by a CARB-approved lab to meet low formaldehyde emission standards.

The CARB Compwood ATCM is the lowest formaldehyde standard in the world.

Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring substance that can be produced by the human body. It is ubiquitous and a component of hundreds of consumer items.

When shopping for ecofriendly cabinets, it is important to not only examine the cabinets, but also the process that was used to manufacture them.

Criteria for process resource management includes that the manufacturer have an active recycling program for wastes, an energy-conservation program or another form of environmentalmanagement system.

On top of conserving resources, these practices can reduce the emission of pollutants and greenhouse gases, and aid in decreasing landfills, all of

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Commitment to the environment When purchasing ESP certified cabinets, homeowners can rest assured that the manufacturer is committed to both the environment and their community. ESP’s environmental stewardship criteria require that the manufacturer have a written policy stating a firm commitment to protect the environment. The community relations category encourages the manufacturer to demonstrate community involvement and leadership through service

eral, state and local environmental requirements.

With almost 150 ESP certified cabinetry companies to choose from, homeowners have the ability to select environmentally responsible cabinetry tailored to their needs, no matter their price, style, finish and wood preference – just look for the ESP seal located on the base cabinet.

For more information and tips on “greening” the home and finding environmentally friendly cabinetry visit www.greencabinetsource.org.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Spring Home & Garden

Inexpensive ways to bring spring into your home Spring is a time of new beginnings. Flowers and plants are blooming, the sun is shining and the weather is finally getting warmer after winter’s chill. So why not bring some of spring’s beauty into your home so you can enjoy it day after day?

“Some people think they have to purchase new accessories to refresh their home for spring.

Nothing could be further from the truth,” said Christine Silverman, director of small project paints for Rust-Oleum. “There are some easy, affordable ways to bring spring into your home by ‘upcycling’ the things you already have. These simple projects are fun ways to give a new beginning to the things you have sitting in the garage or basement, while keeping them out of the land fill. It’s a win-win for both you and Mother Nature.”

Bring your flower garden indoors A great way to perk up a home for spring is by decorating rooms where you spend the most time like the living or family room or kitchen - with flowers. By spray painting flower pots you already own bright yellow, purple or green and grouping them into indoor “gardens,” you will give them new life, while bringing the great outdoors inside. Consider using Painter’s Touch Ultra Cover 2X, a fast-drying spray paint that works well on wood, wicker, metal, plaster or unglazed ceramic and resists chipping and fading. Or, place your “new” pottery on wrought iron plant stands or pedestal tables painted in coordinating colors to add a burst of color to any room.

Winds of change Adding color to a ceiling or oscillating fan is a great way to add a pop of color in an unexpected way. Rediscover a fan you have stored in the attic. Or find a good

deal on a fan that compliments your personality at a flea market or discount store and bring it home for a facelift. Covering the fan in just one coat of inexpensive spray paint in a fresh spring color will create a conversation piece that will last throughout the year.

For this project, try using RustOleum Universal spray paint. Its unique trigger spray makes it easy to use at any angle and it can be used on any surface – plastic, metal, wood and more.

Bring the outdoor patio furniture inside Remember the old wicker chair and loveseat you picked up at Aunt Ida’s garage sale?

They’re not just for outside.

Spray paint them with one coat of Painter’s Touch Ultra Cover 2X with Advanced Double Cover Technology in a bright spring color like Aqua or Green Apple and suddenly you have new seating that is perfect for your sunroom, front porch or foyer.

Restore and renew flea market finds Flea markets are full of treasures that sometimes just need a little TLC to give them new life.

Save that dingy chandelier, tarnished lamp or outdated bookcase from the trash by restoring it with a fresh coat of spray paint, which is sometimes all that is needed to turn garage sale or flea market finds into treasures.

For hundreds of easy project ideas to help you decorate and transform your home, visit www.paintideas.com. Before you know it you’ll have splashes of sunshine, spring color and great conversation pieces throughout your home without spending much time or money. Say goodbye to the winter blues and hello to some springtime cheer.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Why didn’t it last?

Most people don’t understand why their roof has failed or why it never lasts its warranty.

Roof Time has the answer.

“It has to do with what I like to call the ‘Energy Trilogy,’ Roof Time Project Manager JDShoemaker explains.

“Ventilation, insulation, and radiation.”

A common problem is that there is not enough insulation.

Roof Time uses the amount recommended by Energy Star.

Ventilation and insulation are required by code, but radiation is not. Therefore, most in the roofing industry don’t take it into consideration, according to Shoemaker.

Roof Time uses a radiant barrier, a metallic foil material, that reduces the transmission of radiated heat. Using this technique Roof Time can add another 10 years to your roof’s life.

These factors will pay dividends, as you’ll be able to save

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on your monthly energy bill.

“We have the knowledge,” said Shoemaker.

“We have quality products.

But more impor“...We are tantly we passionate are pasabout serving sionate about our customer. serving We know that our Rick Beckett’s West Chester home. cusour integrity “But those at Roof Time spent tomer. time with me and helped me depends on We understand. They told me what know our service.” was needed, what they would do that our and they did it.The experience integrity was fantastic.” depends on Beckett recommends Roof our service.”

Time, because he was satisfied, Client Rick Beckett not only with their expertise, but knows this best. Beckett rests well at night because he has com- their impeccable service.

“All those in the roof industry plete confidence in the roof over have to ask why their business his head.

“I knew nothing about roofs,” exists,” explains Shoemaker.

“We exist to serve.” the homeowner admits.

Roof Time has won Angie’s List Super Service Award for the past four years in a row, as well as, was voted Favorite Roofer by The Community Press readers in 2009.

Their estimators arrive on time and prepared, in neatly lettered vehicles and uniforms; inspect the attic portion of the roof, then inspect and measure from the roof top.

See ROOF TIME on page 16

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Spring Home & Garden

Economy Glass and Window celebrates 30 years For 30 years Economy Glass and Window has been providing quality service to Cincinnati residents and businesses.

From commercial storefronts to residential windows to custom shower enclosures and mirrors – they do it all!

And right now with Spring here, they are running 30 percent off of all screen repairs.

As we start to air out the winter blues from our homes and open those windows, many homeowners are greeted with damaged or ripped screens.

You can bring those into their showroom at 5819 Filview Circle, in Dent, and they will re-screen and repair those within three to five days.

It is also a great time of year to consider replacing your windows because you may qualify for a 30 percent tax credit up to $1,500 for

the purchase of windows, doors and storm windows.

We are confident that we carry a style and size to suit your application.

You can be sure that your investment will add value to your home or business, cut energy costs and reduce upkeep drastically.

Economy Glass has an experienced glazier on staff that is responsible for selecting, cutting, installing, replacing and removing all types of glass.

Economy Glass has a wide range of products and different styles to choose with all of the latest technology and updates.

They have fusion welded sashes and frames for engineered strength and thermal 7/8-inch insulated glass with ComforTech warm edge technology, which provides comfort and energy

savings.

For easy cleaning and operation, they have a double hung window where sashes tilt in, slider sashes lift out, and casement and awning sashes open a full 90 degrees.

Economy Glass is also known for the expertise with installing shower enclosures.

Their door specialists have years of experience installing basic tub enclosures, as well as elegant European shower doors.

They can work with framed or frameless shower or tub doors to provide a customized look for your bathroom.

Their showroom is a great place to stop by to get custom ideas for your glass and mirror projects.

You can view customized mirror options for your cabinet doors, walls and ceilings.

You can also browse through catalogs for exterior doors, patio doors, sidelights and transoms, as well as a wide variety of clear and decorative glass style entry doors.

If you have a home improvement project that involves glass or mirror, Economy Glass and Window can be a great resource.

After so many years in business, they are capable and experienced to handle almost any commercial or residential repair or installation.

For more information or to schedule an appointment for an estimate, call 661-7748.

Or visit their Web site at www.economyglassandwindow. com.

You can also stop in to their showroom Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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Whether you want a pool or spa, Riley’s has it all Riley’s Pools and Spas, owned and operated by Brian Eilerman and Mark Hauser, is the only full-service pool and spa store on the west side.

Eilerman, an Elder graduate, grew up on the west side and has worked for 18 years in distribution, manufacturing, and retail areas of the swimming pool industry. Hauser, a Moeller grad, brings 12 years of experience.

“We can transform your backyard into the yard you’ve always wanted,” said Eilerman, whose daughter the store is named after.

“We offer professional installa- Join Riley’s Pool and Spas for their seventh Anniversary Sale. tion of in-ground and aboveand accessories to filters and tains pool chemical lines, as well ground pools, spas; as well as all replacement parts. They also pro- as Leisure Time and Baquaspa for the chemicals and equipment vide service if you have a probspas. Bring in a water sample for needed to maintain them.” lem or need to winterize. free computer analysis to get Riley’s Pools and Spas is the Riley’s is your one-stop shop optimum water balance for your only west-side spa dealer offerfor everything including pool water. ing different styles of spas to and spa openings and closings, In the showroom are working meet all price ranges and size safety cover installation, replace- models of spas, an in-ground restrictions. ment pool liners, and service. pool display, heaters, automatic They also offer everything to Riley’s carries GLB and main- cleaners, salt/chlorine generaenjoy your spa from chemicals

Brian Chloe, Riley and Mark.

tors, a full line of maintenance equipment, and a variety of toys, games and floats.

The Seventh Anniversary Weekend Sale will be held Thursday, March 25, through Sunday, April 4.

Please stop in and celebrate with them by receiving 15 percent off all in-stock store items, excluding pools and spas.

Riley’s Pools and Spas is located at 6212 Glenway Ave. (near The Home Depot) and is open weekdays 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 481-3000 for details.

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Spring Home & Garden

Spring home makeovers start with tile from Ceramic Tile Outlet

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It’s spring and change is in the air!

Many homeowners are looking to renovate and update their homes this spring and research shows that the wisest investment that you can make to your home is in the kitchen and bathroom. With a high return on your investment and a new look that livens up your home, Ceramic Tile Outlet has the perfect product for your kitchen or bath redo.

Located in Erlanger, Ceramic Tile Outlet has been supplying Tristate homeowners with high quality floor and wall tiles for 20 years. Homeowners prefer Ceramic Tile Outlet because of their excellent selection of tile which they have in stock, ready for pick-up and their unparalleled customer service.

“That is one thing that sets us apart and makes us different from other tile companies. We stock our tile and have it conveniently ready for our customers and the other tile suppliers don’t,” said owner Dan Kennedy. “It is already here, ready to be loaded.”

Ceramic Tile Outlet carries fine, quali-

ty tile that you will love in your kitchen or bathroom at exceptional Ceramic prices. The compaTile Outlet ny imports most of its tile from has been the most supplying respected tile Tristate makers in Italy and has homeowners been doing with high business with many of their quality floor vendors for and over 20 years.

“We carry porcewall tiles for lain, ceramic, and 20 years. glass tile as well as an engineered stone that no one else has in greater Cincinnati,” said Kennedy.

This spring, give both the value of your home and your kitchen or bathroom a boost with beautiful tile from Ceramic Tile Outlet. Call 525-1600 for more information and store hours.

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Spring Home & Garden

Beat the rush, visit White Oak Lawnmower Shop now It’s that time of year again for that much needed servicing on your lawn and garden power equipment.

The season will be here sooner than you think and at the White Oak Lawnmower Shop, they do get busy when it hits.

That’s why they promote service specials at this time of year to enhance your effort to come in now. Pick-up and delivery may be available for a minimal fee. Beat the rush!

They would also like to take this time to explain servicing on a lawnmower.

Every year they have some customers come in and say, “I can service my own mower for less than $39.” They’re asked just what do they do when they service their lawnmower.

The customer replies he changes the oil and air filter and sharpens the blade.

A service is in more detail, however, and your mower will perform better and longer.

For instance, that blade the customer has sharpened: Did they balance it?

How about the RPM’s which gives a mower its power? Most mowers, especially mulching mowers will drop RPMs as the season goes along and you won’t even realize it.

Most mowers should be set at 3,100 RPMs. After a year of use, most mowers show an average of 2,600 RPMs. With that, customers say, “What do

you do when you service a lawnmower?”

Well, they’re told how White Oak Lawnmower Shop has a 15 point check list some of them on the list are, sharpen and balance the White Oak blade, Lawnmower change the oil Shop is familyand air owned and filter, readoperated and just has been the linkservicing the west age, side of Cincinnati torque for more than 35 down the head, reset years. the RPMs, check self-prop operation belts, adjust cables, check compression.

White Oak Lawnmower Shop is family-owned and operated and has been servicing the west side of Cincinnati for more that 35 years.

They have factory trained technicians and are a master service center for most small engines on the market.

Don’t wait, beat the rush! Call 3854397. The shop is located at 3590 Blue Rock Road at Banning.

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Spring Home & Garden

Old time service, modern day technology Roof Time There is a difference between professional quality contractors who care about their customers, employees, and community and “fly by night” contractors.

Affordable Comfort, Inc.’s mission is to be a professional quality contractor who provides “old time” service using modern day technology for all your heating and cooling needs.

Jeff Schafer, the owner of Affordable Comfort, Inc. grew up on the west side of Cincinnati and still lives in the area. He has been in the heating and cooling business for more than 29 years. In 1966, he started his own business to offer affordable quality service to customers and named it Affordable Comfort, Inc. He moved

the business from his home to its current location on North Bend Road in Monfort Heights in 2006. In 2008, e purchased Duncan Heating and Cooling, also a west side company, which had been in business since 1962.

Together, they have been serving the Greater Cincinnati area for more than 50 years. Now they are combined into one company to serve all your heating and cooling needs!

Affordable Comfort, Inc. services all makes and models of furnaces, boilers, heat pumps, air conditioners, air cleaners, air purifiers, humidifiers, and water heaters. They have a duct cleaning truck to bring your indoor air quality to its best. They offer annual service main-

tenance programs to keep our equipment working safely and at its maximum efficiency. They use flat rate pricing so that you will know the cost of repair up front, with no hidden charges. They aim to meet and exceed all your heating and cooling needs. You can visit them on the Web at www.affordablecomfortinc.com.

With the forecast of continually rising energy prices, it is important to keep you equipment operating at the highest efficiency possible, or to consider replacing aged, inefficient systems with new premium efficiency equipment.

You could save up to 40 percent off your energy bill by using new high efficiency equipment. On

select new high efficiency equipment, you can still receive up to $1500 back from the government and up to $400 from local utilities.

Affordable Comfort, Inc. is proud to be a member of the Better Business Bureau and Jeff Schafer, owner, is currently serving on the Board of the Cincinnati Chapter of the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA).

Affordable Comfort Inc.’s service hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon.

Phones are monitored outside of regular hours for emergencies. Call them at 574-6660 or 4714242, or e-mail them at affordablecomfort@fuse.net.

|Confidence Continued from page 11 An estimate can be prepared right from their vehicles or e-mailed back the same day!

Estimators are noncommissioned, and only bid work that needs to be completed. Written estimates are free, and feature digital roof top photos.

Roof Time is an Owens Corning preferred contractor and has been serving the community with offices in Boone and Clermont counties since 1995.

For more information on Roof Time call Office Manager Sandy, at 859344-TIME or 513-528TIME, to schedule a free roof inspection and visit, www.time2roof.com, for a valuable Internet only offer.

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Bring early spring to your home with indoor gardening Do images of flowering trellises laden with yellow, pink, green and purple blooms dance through your dreams? You may be ready for some warm spring-like temperatures, but the weather outside is still a little frightful. Ignore the weather and bring spring inside with some indoor gardening.

Not only does bringing spring inside help brighten your home, but houseplants can also improve the quality of the air you’re breathing. A NASA study found that houseplants remove up to 87 percent of toxic indoor air inside a sealed chamber within 24 hours.

By planting now, while winter is still in the air, you will have vegetables, herbs and flowers primed for transplanting when warmer weather finally arrives. And since they’re inside, you can watch the plants as they shoot their little green stems out of the fresh dirt, monitoring them as they grow.

• Use loose potting soil to promote root growth. Outside, worms and insects tunnel through the dirt, naturally breaking it up to help plants spread their roots. To mimic their effect indoors, use potting soil mixed with peat moss, vermiculite and perlite to create a light texture that won’t compact after a couple of waterings.

• Make sure the natural light is adequate.

Some plants like direct sunlight and must be located near a south-facing window, while others prefer a few hours of indirect light.

But to really keep your herbs and flowers looking strong all season long, consider using artificial light like the Grow Light Pro White from Wards.com, which can also help you get your spring garden started early with seedlings. The Grow Light has four lights that can be turned on as a unit or individually, and it has an adjustable bottom shelf so you can alter the light level as your plants grow.

When plants don’t get the light they need, they start to appear thin and frail. As your plants begin to grow, make sure to rotate the pots so the stems grow straight, rather than bending unnaturally toward the source of light.

• Keep the humidity level above 50 percent with a humidifier. Not only will your plants appreciate the extra moisture, but so will you. When the humidity drops below 50 percent, most plants suffer from water loss

through their leaves, and it’s difficult to regain that water balance, even with frequent watering.

• Really bring spring inside your home with beautiful pots and decorating accents.

Visit Wards.com to find beautiful and creative birdhouses that not only are functional, but stylish enough to hang inside.

Consider hanging a wire birdhouse in the shape of an acorn in the kitchen window, or using a set of two birdhouses as a unique decoration for your entryway.

• Mix art and fun together with some ivy. Ivy topiaries are very easy to grow, and there are many creative planters and forms you can use to support the ivy as it winds its way toward the sun. Are you a music fan? A guitar and music stand with little pots incorporated into the design can help brighten up your living room. Or maybe you prefer a vintage look created by placing a Madeline Dress Form over your vines, allowing them to grow and construct the skirt.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Make your home more energy efficeint with USA Insulation

President Obama urges homeowners to make their homes energy efficient In December, President Obama urged homeowners to make their home more energy efficient. He suggested there is a lot more we can do to reduce our carbon footprint.

In his now famous “Insulation is Sexy” speech, he explained that homes and office buildings consume nearly 40 percent of the energy we use, and contribute almost 40 percent of the carbon pollution we produce.

“Homes built in the first half of the last century use about 50 percent more energy than homes built today because most of our homes and offices aren’t energy efficient,” he explained.

Obama also suggested that the simple act of retrofitting buildings or homes, including insulating them, is the fastest, easiest and cheapest way to save money.

“Insulation is sexy stuff,” Obama said. “Here’s what’s sexy

about it – saving money!”

The federal government has extended the tax credit through 2010 so more homeowners can take advantage of the program.

USA Insulation wants to help homeowners save money in 2010.

“Insulating your home is the best investment you can make to your home,” said Steve Cikach, president of USA Insulation.

“The federal government has extended the tax credit for 2010, so it’s basically a no-brainer on whether or not to insulate your home. The only decision you need to make is ‘when to insulate.’ ” Most homes built before 1975 were not required to have insulation. If your home is 35 years or older, your utility bills are probably higher than they should be.

In his speech, Obama used a simple example to get his point across about saving energy. “If

you saw $20 bills floating out the window into the atmosphere, you’d try to figure out how you can keep that.”

USA Insulation installs Premium Foam insulation with the highest R-value in the industry. R-value is the amount of resistance to the movement of temperature through the walls and ceilings.

USA’s Premium Foam insulation’s R-value is 5.1 per inch. It goes in the wall cavity as a foam, then hardens between the walls, acting as a “blanket” that protects your home from the temperature extremes.

In addition to lower utility bills, insulation has other benefits. Your home will no longer have those “drafty” areas or temperature fluctuations between the upstairs and downstairs.

USA’s premium foam acts as a sound barrier to the outside

world, so your home will be quieter. Insulation is important to prospective buyers, and homes that are insulated have higher resale values.

Most homeowners don’t think they can insulate their brick or stucco home, but they will be surprised to learn that they can, Cikach said.

He said that with brick and stucco, USA Insulation is able to make smaller holes – a half inch to be exact – to apply the foam.

USA Insulation can fit in most mortar joints without damaging the brick.

USA Insulation also can match the mortar colors to the brick or stucco material.

Call to schedule a free, noobligation insulation evaluation at 381-FOAM (3626).

Visit www.usainsulation.net to see a video of the product.