Spring Home & Garden - KY

Features 3

Gardening with a purpose takes root

6

Color the new year with trends for 2011

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Get your landscape in shape

11

Check out the top 2011 gardening trentds

See what’s hot in home decorating.

Expert advice.

Keep pests from hatching in your home Insects that hibernate in the winter reappear in spring.

Featured businesses Deck Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Ace Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Northern Kentucky Furnishing . . . . 7 Tom Rechtin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Excellence By Nature . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Matracia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Fedders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Rightway Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Perfection Handyman . . . . . . . . . . 13 Roof Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

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 Stewart c/o The Community Press/ 394 Wards Corner/Loveland, OH 45140 or e-mail mhayden@communitypress.com.

For advertising information call 853-6270.

March 2011 Kentucky

TOP 2011 GARDENING TRENDS

From containers with climbing vines, flowers and veggies to vertical walls blooming with edibles and foliage, plants are growing up.

Beautiful native plants, like Solidago “Solar Cascade” from North Creek Nurseries, are great for attracting wildlife in your backyard.

Orchids are perfect choices for affordable, colorful plants that look as comfortable in 21st century homes as they did in Victorian days.

Blended containers in front yards with herbs and veggies provide a one-two combo that can’t be beat for freshness and convenience.

Home & Garden

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Gardening with a purpose takes root Put on your garden gloves and join in the fun because “gardening with a purpose” is taking root.

The purpose may be to grow your own food or create urban sanctuaries, but planting for a greener good is changing neighborhoods and communities – one garden at a time.

According to the Association of Professional Landscape Designers, homeowners are growing more of their own food - more herbs, vegetables and fruit trees – both in dedicated vegetable gardens and mixed in the garden among flowers and shrubs.

But it’s not just food production that’s driving today’s gardener. As backyard conservationists, gardeners are transforming yards, gardens, rooftops and even urban alleys into green and productive spaces.

Here’s a glimpse of what Susan McCoy, garden trend spotter, sees for 2011.

Nurseries, part of The American Beauties Native Plant collection, are low-maintenance plants that attract wildlife and beneficial pollinators like butterflies, bees and birds.

Proceeds benefit the National Wildlife Federation’s Certified Wildlife Habitat Program.

Growing up with vertical gardening

“Vertical gardens are becoming increasingly popular and will grow far beyond anything we can envision,” says Joe Zazzera, with Plant Solutions, Inc. and Green Plants for Green Buildings (GPGB.org).

“Businesses are seeing the proSustainable containers ductivity, environmental quality For small space gardens, growand return on investment that ing food in containers makes sense. indoor plantings and vertical living Blended containers with herbs and walls are bringing to their projects.” veggies provide a one-two combo From containers with climbing for freshness and convenience. And, vines, flowers and veggies to verticontainers blooming with natives, cal walls blooming with edibles, re-bloomers and ornamental grassplants are growing up. es beautify spaces and benefit the environment.

Urban farming and CSAs In step with the move to reinvigSucculents orate communities, urban farming Dry gardening using less water and Community Supported is bubbling across the nation.

Agriculture farms (CSAs) are Attractive and low-maintenance springing up nationwide. Urban succulents have showy flowers and farming “micro-farms” are convertthick, fleshy foliage that stores ing small spaces in blighted areas water like a camel’s hump. into thriving farms that grow fresh Gardening with a purpose Drought-tolerant and able to produce for inner city communities.

Nine out of 10 households want thrive in a variety of conditions, CSAs offer fresh produce and to manage their lawns and gardens succulents look great in small garprovide the chance to learn about in an environmentally friendly way, dens and large landscapes. Get varieties, maintaining plants and according to the National ideas from Costa Farms on varieties sharing experiences.

Gardening Association. that you can mix with perennials, “Gardens continue to reflect containers and standalone or in roof New urbanism awareness of how our landscapes gardens.

Sustainable urban communities enhance and improve the environthat offer spots to enjoy an outdoor Indoor gardening ment around us,” Patricia St. John, lifestyle are on the rise.

From “steampunk” Victorian president of the Association of Planting water-wise plants, colhipster decor rocking among young lecting rainwater, building walkable Professional Landscape Designers, urbanites to upscale suburban says of this trend. streets, and fostering diversity of homes, decorating with houseSince healthy plants start with shops, homes and apartments with plants like orchids, ferns and palms less turf and more plants encourhealthy soil, people are looking for is hot. sustainable and organic soils like ages better stewardship of the Chic and easy to grow, orchids OMRI-listed, compost-based, preearth, and reconnects everyone as add a lavish touch to any room. mium-blend potting soil from fellow stewards of resources and Plus these hard-working beauties Organic Mechanics Soil Company. communities. clean indoor air of volatile organic This all-purpose premier blend is “We had trouble wrapping our compounds and provide oxygen. good for all your plants and good heads around saving the rain Phalaenopsis (moth) orchids as for the earth. forests,” says McCoy, “But we clearwell as other varieties are perfect ly can wrap our arms around savEco-scaping choices for affordable, colorful ing our own backyards. Digging The move to de-lawn large plants that look as comfortable in and planting gardens brings awaretracks of turf and transform lawns 21st century homes as they did in ness that we’re all earth’s caretakinto sustainable landscapes is Victorian days. To learn more about ers.” achievable with the right plants that the health benefits of indoor houseFor a complete look at the use less water and pesticides. plants, check out Garden Media Group 2011 Garden Beautiful native plants like www.O2forYou.org.

Trends visit: www.gardenmediaSolidago “Solar Cascade,” exclugroup.com. sively available from North Creek Courtesy of ARA Content

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Home & Garden

Kentucky

Quality service, reasonable price Deck Aid, a deck cleaning and sealing company, is dedicated to cleaning and protecting wooden decks, fences, play-sets and gazebo. They can also do minor repairs.

“Quality service at a reasonable price,” is their top priority, according to Operations Manager David Pritchard.

Deck Aid is committed to using safe and effective products.

They will help you select the correct product to protect your investment. These products are all biodegradable and environmentally friendly.

Deck Aid has the appropriate products, the necessary equipment and proper training to do the job right. They are happy to provide detailed information on each of the products they use and are bonded, licensed and fully insured, which is important.

The absorption of rain, snow and other moisture into unpro-

tected wood will cause it to soften and expand. The sun will dry the wood, causing it to shrink.

This unrelenting cycle will warp, split and crack you wood.

Unprotected wood is also subject to mildew, algae, mold, rot, decay, and graying caused from ultraviolet degradation.

After your deck is pressured washed thoroughly, Deck Aid advises that an oil based stain/sealant be applied to protect your wood from weatherizing.

A new deck should be sealed within six to eight weeks after construction. Regular scheduling for cleaning and sealing is also recommended every two years to protect your investment and keep it looking top notch.

Deck Aid, Wolman-certified, is trained in the proper techniques of treating all types of wood.

They use a specialized sealant with your choice of four premi-

um stains: Golden Pine, Natural, Cedar and Redwood.

Other colors can be done at the customer’s request.

“Not only do we use top quality products but we have a unique process that is designed to protect from overspray protecting your largest investment, your house,” said Pritchard.

Deck Aid also offers storage of furniture and other outdoor accessories over the winter. This includes pick-up and delivery, cleaning, sealing and storing your furniture.

Deck Aid is a member of the Better Business Bureau, Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber of Commerce and Home Builders Association of Northern Kentucky.

For more information call 859344-1221 or visit www.deckaid.com. Deck Aid offers excellent 24/7 customer service.

Hot home tips

Check your yard for bare spots and overseed them, as necessary. Give your yard a good raking or use a dethatcher to get rid of any dead grass or leaves that can hamper growth. If you don't have an overseeder or dethatcher, don't worry.

Your local rental stores will have tools and equipment you need. Visit RentalHQ.com if you need help finding a rental store in your area.

March 2011

Home & Garden

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Ace Hardware is your ‘Helpful Place’ The helpful employees at the two Ace Hardware locations in Florence and Hebron can get you ready to tackle whatever home project you have your mind set on.

Ace Hardware carries the usual hardware, electrical and plumbing supplies, power and hand tools, and Carhartt workwear. They are now carrying Craftsman, a full-line is available at the Hebron store.

Ace hopes to grow this new relationship over the coming years. Craftsman is a leading supplier of tools to the consumer market in the United Ace Hardware is the helpful place.

States.

Ace also offers screen Training Institute so they repair, cut glass and can best meet our cusPlexiglas, and refill tomers needs. We also propane tanks or offer the carry a great assortment Blue Rhino tank exchange of patio and garden supprogram. If they don’t plies and furniture, and have what you need, will have a selection of chances are they can order live plants when the it for you. weather breaks,” he said.

“We have merchandise And then there’s paint. delivered weekly and can Ace Hardware not only place special orders for sells the Ace brand of customers,” said Wally paint, but also carries the Schwartz, assistant manlines of Porter Paint and ager.

Benjamin Moore paint They can also order now at it’s Hebron locamerchandise through ace- tion. hardware.com, have it Porter has a new line of sent to our store for pick colors called Voice of up, and avoid the shipColor which we also have ping fee. in stock, Schwartz said.

Ace’s garden center is If you have a certain top-notch and provides color in mind that comes reliable service, advice in a brand other than Ace, and products to help cus- Porter, or Benjamin Moore tomers get their projects we have a cross-referdone right. enced file that enables us “We carry Scotts lawn to come up with a formucare products and have la to get you that color in point-of-sale material our Ace paint. from Scotts that explains Sold exclusively in Ace to customers when and Hardware stores and how to use the products,” home centers worldwide, said owner Dick each Ace Private Label Blandford. product is stamped with a “We send many of our guarantee of its quality. It sales people to the Scotts can pay you to shop at

Ace. “Signing up for the Ace Rewards program is free and easy,” said Blandford.

“As Rewards customers purchase items, they accumulate points. Special coupons are issued periodically, even on their birthdays, and they can

participate in promotions throughout the year which are available only to Rewards customers.

“To date, more than 13,000 customers have signed up since our opening in 2006,” he said.

With the exception of major holidays such as

Thanksgiving and Christmas, both Ace Hardware locations are open 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday. Come to the helpful place, come to Ace Hardware.

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Color the new year with trends for 2011

Home & Garden

Kentucky

What’s in store for home decorating in 2011? No matter what your taste, you’ll have no problem finding a hue in the 2011 forecast of popular paint colors to fit your lifestyle … and your tastes.

“The 2011 color forecast contains some extraordinarily versatile and contrasting hues that have been inspired by everyday life,” said Donna Schroeder, color marketing and design manager for Dutch Boy Paints.

“The depth and range of what we’re predicting to be next year’s most popular colors provide extensive options for adding accents to a room, changing themes and styles, or even completely redecorating from scratch,” she said.

The five 2011 trend palettes are as follows:

to the future. A true appreciation of craftsmanship and natural materials and finishes abounds. As such, rusty colors that emanate deep warmth are featured. These include: Brick Fleck, Bittersweet Orange, Nature’s Way and Chestnuts Roasting.

Worn

Wonder

The appreciation of old and naturally rusted or decayed items is prevalent in Dutch Boy’s first palette. The passage of time is held sacred, and beauty is seen in all things weathered from time and the elements. There is a strong influence of holding onto heritage as we continue to move forward and look

Escapism and nature-in-theextreme drive the next trend.

There’s a definite need for fun and fantasy to satisfy that inner child that’s in all of us. This trend comes to life with colors such as bright fuchsia, deep blue and cheery aqua, all balanced by a nature-inspired green. You’ll find a hint of 1980s

Rebirth Sustainability and the respect for the environment are now a lifestyle.

There’s a sense of personal responsibility when it comes to nature.

This is reflected in these saturated and wholesome colors. Rich greens are nature inspired and warm golds mirror the vegetables found in a farmers market. Colors in this palette include the following: Aubusson Vine, Endless Ocean, Brilliant Impression and Nectar.

influence here, but the combinations are much newer to the eye.

Colors include the following: Moonlit Sky, Rockets, Merlot Grape and Victory Red.

Functionality On the flip side, there are those who embrace a truly practical way of living and look into the depths and layers of nature. Within this trend, texture is key and colors are soft and faded. Windswept and washed effects and monochromatic layering set this palette. Colors include the following: Boardwalk Blue, Composed Bloom, Spruce Hollow and Range Brown.

Abyss The last 2011 trend revolves around technology. Here, technology influences a stripped-to-the-bone or cellular level of design. The color palette reflects a void element, as we move into the future and become ever more reliant on online and virtual communication. Colors are neutral and gray and include the following Dutch Boy hues: Gargoyle Shadow, Fresh Linen, Pursuit of Happiness and Piccolo.

Courtesy of ARA Content

March 2011

Home & Garden

Bargains at Northern Kentucky Furnishing Center In a tough economy, many people who need new furniture are going without; this is often due to high prices. But at Northern Kentucky Furnishing Center, located in Independence, people can get the furniture they need at more affordable prices.

“We are able to offer lower pricing because we are a wholesale distributor,” said Ryan Osterkamp, business owner.

“That means we are able to save you money. We offer the same brands, but not the same prices.”

The building Osterkamp has been in

for the past nine months is not as spacious as he would like, but does include a showroom where customers can come and see bed frames, mattress sets, and other home furnishings. In the future he hopes to add dining and living room furniture to his collection. Until then, people can order products from his catalogs, still at wholesale prices. You can visit his showroom, at 5195 Madison Pike, or give him a call at 250-2553.

Products can also be viewed on his website, at www.nky.hfsclearance.com.

You can count on Tom Rechtin Heating & Air Conditioning The first thing you notice when you visit Tom Rechtin Heating & Air Conditioning’s website is their commitment to the community and their years of reliability. This is evidenced in the many groups they are members of – the BBB, Air Conditioning Contractors of America and the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and the different designations – Factory Authorized Dealer of both Carrier and Bryant products.

But this year they were honored to be nominated into the Carrier Hall of Fame. Tom C. Rechtin, who founded the company in 1964, is one of only 10 dealers nationwide that is being recognized for this distinction.

Nominees must have a minimum 20 years association with Carrier as their primary brand. They must also be a Factory Authorized Dealer and be far enough along in their careers to warrant the

recognition of lifetime achievement.

Thomas C. Rechtin has been a community leader, role model and an advocate of education for more than 40 years. He has been named both state and national contractor of the year and was instrumental in implementation of a licensing program in the state of Kentucky. He has grown his company by encouraging his employees to attend certification classes, participate in seminars and other education programs and provides tuition assistance for employees seeking their certification.

The entire staff at Tom Rechtin Heating & Air Conditioning is dedicated to exceeding their customers’ expectations. The Rechtin family strongly believes in providing a safe and enjoyable work environment and promotes ongoing education programs so their installers have a working knowledge of the latest technical advancements

and factory revisions in the HVAC field.

Loyal customers have been relying on Rechtin’s services for years and showing their gratitude by referring them on to family and friends.

Rechtin offers financing, senior discounts, 24/7 emergency services and no overtime repair charges. All of their service technicians are licensed and insured and widely trained in all phases of residential and commercial HVAC. Besides home heating and AC systems repairs and installation they also provide boiler system and home heat pump repairs and installation and customized fitting ductwork made on-site in their sheet metal fabrication shop.

For more information on Tom Rechtin Heating & Air Conditioning visit their website at www.tomrechtin.net or call 350-1021 to schedule a free estimate.

NKY.COM

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Home & Garden

Kentucky

Rock your kitchen with granite countertops So you’ve looked at your outdated old countertops long enough and you’ve decided that now is the time for you to get those new countertops that you’ve been wanting for so long. Now what?

Where do you start?

You’ve heard about numerous types of countertops out there. Which one is the right choice for you and your family?

How will you put all these puzzle pieces together… the countertops, the backsplash, the paint?

Faced with all of these questions, it’s easy to see how any homeowner could be overwhelmed.

But don’t worry, the friendly and knowledgeable staff at Excellence By Nature is here to help!

Excellence By Nature is your locally owned and operated countertop company with an experienced staff to offer a wealth of knowledge and ideas.

interior designer and operations manager at Excellence By Nature.

“Oftentimes, with new hardware on your cabinets, a fresh coat of paint on the walls and new countertops, a kitchen or bathroom feels refreshed and updated.”

Excellence By Nature offers laminate, solid surface, tile, quartz, and granite for countertops.

Although there are so many options, granite is still by far the most popular choice for kitchen countertops. Granite offers a natural beauty that can’t be duplicated by any man-made surface available on the market today. Its natural hues, variation, color selection and durability keep it at Excellence By Nature offers laminate, solid surface, tile, quartz, and granite the top of the list for for countertops. Although there are so many options, granite is still by far the kitchen countertops. most popular choice for kitchen countertops.

It has also been proven that granite countertops “Many homeowners improve the look and will draw more appeal functionality of their curare pleasantly surprised when trying to sell your by how a few simple rent kitchen or bathhome. changes can really room,” says Sarah Hoff,

Many granite companies, including your local big box stores, subcontract the template, fabrication or installation of granite and other types of countertops.

At Excellence By Nature, each granite countertop is templated, fabricated and installed by our specialized crew of experts in the field.

Keeping all of this work in house allows us to maintain a high level of quality control with all ends of the process of fabricating and installing your new countertops.

It also allows you to work hands-on with our crew in the production of your new countertops. If you choose, you can work side by side with our shop foreman to lay out your job on the granite slab of your choice.

Conveniently located only five minutes from Florence Mall and 15 minutes from downtown Cincinnati, Excellence By Nature is your local onestop shopping source for countertops, tile, cabinet hardware, sinks and faucets. Don’t get lost in the shuffle of the big box home improvement stores.

At Excellence By Nature, you will receive the personalized, handson customer service that you deserve. With a qualified staff with more than 50 years of combined experience, you can rest assured that your new countertops will be installed with the highest caliber of quality and detail.

Stop dreaming about those new countertops and make it a reality! Call or stop in today!

March 2011

Home & Garden

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Expert design tips that will get your landscape in shape The chill of winter winds might have you wishing for the first buds of spring, but garden lovers don’t need to let the cold season get them down.

In fact, this can be the ideal time to start planning your landscape for spring and summer.

Leaving the work until the last minute, when plants are starting to push up through the ground, will only delay your enjoyment.

So harness your excitement for spring and prepare a plan with some expert help.

Tackling a landscaping plan can be overwhelming, so it’s a good idea to consult a professional landscape designer who knows the ins and outs of when, where and how to plant and how to install hardscapes.

By starting in the winter, designers will be more readily available to help you refine your plans and you’ll be ready to get a head start as soon as the weather

breaks.

“There are so many details involved in creating the landscape of one’s dreams that it’s easy to become confused,” said Bobbie Schwartz, president of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD).

“A landscape designer will be experienced in taking on the multiple unique challenges that every property poses. In the long run, hiring a professional, who will get it done right the first time, can save money. That professional will keep you from making expensive mistakes,” said Schwartz.

Here are some tips from professional landscape designers that will inspire you to get started with your plans right now.

Consider the view Is there a certain room from which you tend to spend more time looking out at your land-

A stepping stone path beckons through a classic arbor designed by landscape designer Susan Cohan.

scape?

If so, take the time to really examine what you’re seeing. Take note – literally – of anything that catches your eye, good or bad.

Follow the sightlines, and notice where they take your eyes.

This will give you a better defined idea of what you want to accentuate, what you want to hide, and what could be adjusted through simple changes like pruning or minor transplanting.

Collect inspiration Flipping through magazines with colorful photos of beautiful gardens is always fun, but it can also be practical.

Pull out pages that feature ideas or plants that you’d like to incorporate into your landscape design.

Be sure to look at smaller photos, which often have a hard time standing up to full-page images, as they can be just as rich with ideas.

Creating a file of images that inspire and excite you is a good idea, and it can be a great way to connect with your landscape designer when you meet.

Think curb appeal Having a beautiful backyard retreat is often the goal of a landscaping project, but the view that guests and passersby have is just as important.

A well-designed landscape can emphasize your home’s beauty and diminish any potential eyesores, making it more appealing to you, your neighbors and any potential buyers.

According to the “Journal of Environmental Horticulture,” it’s been shown that well-designed landscapes can increase home sale prices up to 10.8 percent, compared to homes with simply average landscapes.

Courtesy of ARA Content Designed by Margie Grace, this landscape has a lovely focal point to draw attention.

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Home & Garden

Kentucky

Let Matracia Contracting solve your concrete problems Matracia Contracting Inc. has been solving concrete problems since 1995 by using a process called concrete lifting, which raises a concrete slab back to its original position.

It is the economical alternative to tearing out and replacing concrete. Your concrete is lifted by drilling holes into the surface of the concrete slab, and pumping a cement-based grout material through the holes. This fills any voids and displaces any standing water under the slab that may have occurred by settling or burrowing rodents. Workers continue pumping until enough material is pumped under the slab to raise it back

to its original position. This process works on driveways, sidewalks, porches, garage floors, house floors, steps, pool decks and more.

Matracia’s portable pump allows it to go anywhere on your property without damage to your lawn. Work trucks stay on the street, there is no mess and no heavy equipment. And most jobs are completed within one day – or less.

Matracia Contracting is a proud member of the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating. To reach the professionals of Matracia Contracting, call 3711398 and an estimator will call you back within 24 hours.

Lawn, garden tips from Fedders Have you ever purchased a product that just didn’t seem to solve your lawn and garden needs like you thought it would? At Fedders’ Feed, Seed and Pet Supplies their knowledgeable sales staff strives to find out your specific needs and recommend the products that will work for you.

They can also explain how and when to apply the products for the best results.

At Fedders you’ll find a full line of quality lawn and garden products including quality grass

Call 578-5501 to advertise in the 2012 Home & Garden

seed, fertilizers, top soil, potting soil, bird feeders and bird feed. This year your lawn may need special attention due to the drought last year. They can help you get your lawn back in shape.

Both bag and bulk mulch are available at Fedders and you can have it delivered to your home.

The bulk mulch is stored at their Covington location. They also feature a full line of lawn, garden and home pesticides, as well as rodenticides.

Don’t forget your pets this spring and summer, too.

Keep them free from pests with flea control from Fedders. They carry a full line of pet supplies and products.

You’ll like their knowledgeable sales staff, in addition to good old-fashioned service. They’ll even load the car for you!

With locations in Covington and Edgewood, visit Fedders’ Feed, Seed and Pet Supplies for your spring lawn and garden needs.

You can call them at 4312622. You’ll also find special offers at www.feddersfeed.com.

March 2011

Home & Garden

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IN

vestigate – Become a pest detective and investigate your home or a potential new home for pest problems. On the inside of your home, open food containers, look for cracks in interior walls, look for signs of droppings, check vents to the outside, holes in window screens and know that pests like to hide in cool, dark places like attics and basements. On the outside of your home, make sure the cold temperatures aren’t causing cracks in your exterior walls, and investigate for holes, unsealed garbage cans, woodpiles and plants that may be too close to the home.

Also, check any structure that can hold standing water, which is a favorite breeding ground for mosquitos. Also check for stinging insect nests on the ground or in your gutters.

S

tudy – Identify your pest problem so that you can use the proper method to solve or control the issue. Take time to search reputable online sites to identify pests.

You can also contact a university extension office, or visit a local garden store that may have insight on common pests in the area.

P

repare – Think about the tools you’ll need to solve your problem, including gloves, caulk and insecticides or herbicides. “One of the most common problems homeowners have is that they aren’t sure which products to use or who to call to solve the problem,” says Janet Hurley, integrated pest management specialist with the Texas AgriLife Extension Service. “Doing your research, talking to professionals and correctly using the products are the quickest ways to effectively end those pesky pest problems.”

As spring approaches, bugs are breeding and hatching in the cleanest of homes.

Keep spring pests from hatching in your home E

As spring approaches, homeowners won’t be the only ones opting for staycations. Insects that hibernate during cold winter months reappear in the spring, setting their sights on a location closer to home than you think – the safety and warmth of your house.

Hundreds of thousands of pests breed and hatch in large numbers in early spring. For example, most spiders live either one to two seasons and one female spider may produce as many as 3,000 eggs.

“Hidden places in your home could be the breeding ground for pests that hatch in spring,” says Aaron Hobbs, president of RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment), a national organization representing the manufacturers,

formulators and distributors of pesticide and fertilizer products used in and around homes and businesses.

“Once these pests hatch, their numbers quickly increase, and food sources and shelter often determine the length of their stay.”

Pests like bedbugs and stink bugs that have found their way into homes across the country often stay year round, as long as they find food and shelter.

Also, as the spring realestate market heats up, many lenders are requiring reinspections that could reveal pest-related health and safety hazards. At least buyers and sellers are on the same page about one thing: the importance of taking preventive action to avoid or manage pest infestations. Ask any pest

management professional to share horror stories about problems new homeowners have experienced with pests, often with repercussions for sellers who neglected to fix a problem.

What can homeowners and sellers do? Take these easy-tofollow steps, suggested by the acronym I.N.S.P.E.C.T listed to the right.

To make inspecting your home easy, visit www.debugthemyths.com/in spectandprotect for a step-bystep checklist. You’ll also find additional resources including regional fact sheets, kids’ activities and other helpful information to help you protect your family’s health and your property value from pests.

Courtesy of ARA Content

liminate – Take the time to eliminate access points and other inviting entryways for pests lurking outside.

Remember to seal windows, caulk gaps around windows and doors and fix any water leaks. Be ready to tackle neglected or overgrown shrubs and trees near your home.

These areas encourage ticks, fleas and stinging insects to stay, increasing your risk for Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and infections and allergic reactions resulting from bites and stings.

C

lean – Pests need a place to live, food and a source of water, so make sure you aren’t providing them with room, board and all the comforts of home. For example, store cereals, crackers and other food items in plastic containers with secure lids.

Without easy access, pests won’t be able to find their way into your food. reat – Treating pest problems with the responsible use of pesticide products will help keep your home, lawn and community pest-free. This includes purchasing the right products for your problem. For some significant pest problems, such as termites, calling a certified pest professional is the best option.

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Home & Garden

Kentucky

A gardener’s dream come true Rightway Nursery is a gardeners’ dream come true!

With four operating greenhouses, the Wright family has been providing their customers with beautiful flowers and landscaping options for 35 years.

Rightway is much more than just a nursery though. With four landscaping professionals on staff that have degrees in Horticulture and Design, Rightway is able to provide their customers with sound advice and fabulous landscape designs.

Their experienced staff is able to not only design a landscape plan that will fit your particular yard and lifestyle; they can create that design to include patios, hardscaping, walls and fire pits.

One of their experienced designers will come to your home to assess your landscaping needs.

They will take dimensions and a picture of your home so that they can create a design that is proportional and aesthetically pleasing to

your specific home. They will provide you with a photo image of their designs to help you visualize your new landscaping.

Ben and Sandy Wright founded Rightway Nursery and are still actively involved in the day-to-day operations of the company.

“Now is the perfect time of year to get ready for your spring planting. Homeowners can get a head start by cleaning up the yard and landscaping, re-seeding the grass and trimming back shrubs and perennials,” states Sandy. Their son Chris is also in the business and manages their landscaping crew.

Their selection of plants and shrubs is one of the best in the tristate because they are able to plant and grow year-round. They have a wide variety of hostas, ornamental grasses, knockout roses in seven different colors, hydrangeas, boxwoods and much more. Sandy Wright grows her own select proven winners of annuals, as well

as bedding plants and vegetables.

They also carry grass seed, straw and a full-line of garden accessories and tools.

Rightway Nursery also has a full-service florist onsite – Flowers

by Flora. The two companies are a great complement to one another and make for an ideal one-stop shopping experience for nature lovers. Flora has been in business for over 40 years and with her background in designing wedding gown she is a premier wedding florist. She can also provide fresh and silk flower arrangements, custom pieces for homes and businesses and holiday décor.

Rightway Nursery is located in Burlington on Highway 237 next to Stephens Elementary School. For directions or more information you can call 859-586-6422 or just stop by to peruse their incredible selection of plants and get some professional advice on your yard design ideas.

Hot home tips & facts

Just before the spring growing season is the ideal time to prune trees and shrubs, because the trees can quickly heal and regenerate once they start growing.

As interest grows in living more efficiently, people are building smaller homes. In fact, new homes are now 7 percent smaller than they were the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Trendy kitchen color palletes.

Bold expression: Exuding optimism, this palette creates a look that is both unconventional and energetic. Unique color mixes, such as intense purple combined with butterscotch and Capri blue, or sunny orange with dark red balanced against a soft neutral like champagne, create a space that's eclectic, yet warm and welcoming.

March 2011

Home & Garden

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Invite the Perfection Handyman experts into your home We have all spent the last three months cooped up in our houses and most of us have put together a list of needed home improvement projects a mile long. Now it’s time to bring in the experts!

Perfection Handyman can handle all of your home repairs, remodels and maintenance needs. Their business grew naturally from their sister company, Perfection Pest Control, because those customers were always asking for handyman suggestions from issues that had arisen from their pest issues. Both companies are owned and operated by Tim Leatherman who has been serving Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati for over a decade.

Leatherman and his team of highly experienced professionals would often times see termite damage and would recommend that their customers fix those issues and also install other pre-

ventative measures like door and window stripping. It only made sense to expand their services to include home repairs so that their customers could receive quality pest control along with quality handyman repairs.

Perfection Handyman can do just about anything including patch drywall, install electric fixtures, plumbing, hang new doors and build decks and porches.

Over the last several years they have become experts at installing screen porches. They use a system called Screen-Eze that comes with a 10-year warranty. This product can continuously stretch screen over a 150-square-feet area without support in between.

Another great service that Perfection offers their customers is a maintenance plan that takes the burden off the homeowner to perform routine mundane tasks.

Perfection’s maintenance plan can be taken advantage of on a quarterly, bi-annual or annual

routine and includes a full home inspection on such things as changing filters and checking the hot water heater. Free estimates are offered on all of your projects and all forms of credit cards are accepted.

The entire staff at Perfection Handyman is committed to providing the same quality service that Perfection Pest Control is known for delivering. The Pest Control company was given the Super Service Award for 2010 from Angie’s List. They are also Quality Pro Certified, a designation given by the National Pest Management Association for a company’s exemplary business ethics and standards.

Perfection Pest Control offers residential and commercial pest control services for termites, ants, cockroaches, fleas, rats, bats and bed bugs. Spring is the time to treat your home for ants and termites and a regular preventative maintenance plan is the best

solution to keeping your home free of these pests.

Perfection has been treating for bed bugs for over five years and was the first Kentucky based company to use a certified bed bug detection K-9 team. Beddy and Sofy are single-scent trained dogs certified through the Action Canine Institute in Michigan.

Beddy and Sofy team up for a highly thorough inspection and can find one bed bug (or a viable egg) in a room in 8 to 10 minutes.

Perfection K-9 Services can efficiently search not only private residences but also theaters, office buildings, hotels, university dorms, and hospitals.

Perfection also provides seminars for businesses interested in educating their employees on bed bugs.

Perfection Pest Control’s services include a treatment proposal and instructions on pest manage-

See PERFECTION on page 15

14

Home & Garden

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March 2011

Home & Garden

15

Don’t delay _ it’s Roof Time now It’s going to be a busy season for roofers because of record winds, rainfall, and accumulating snow, many roofs in the area are “devastated,” explained JD Shoemaker of A New Roof Time.

Also in the current economic climate, there’s a movement to “improve, not move” mentality by homeowners. More and more people are choosing to invest in their house by adding attic insulation and changing their roofs to shingles that resist ugly black stains and strong winds that are rampant in the Ohio valley. In addition to the beauty and comfort these type of improvements create, homeowners also receive the added benefit of improved property value should they ever decide to sell.

At Rooftime, spring has sprung. Their roof crews are booked through the first of April and their estimators have been busy preparing new estimates since the first of the year. Their

company keeps busy year round due to their “approved insurance vendor” status with many agents and the fact that they have a booth in three home shows.

A New Rooftime is a wise choice for homeowners looking for honest, skilled work. They have earned the prestigious Angie’s List award every year since 2006. Fewer than 5 percent of the roofing companies in Cincinnati receive this award; fewer than 2 percent win it with consistency. Their A-plus rating as members of the BBB and complaint-free record proves that homeowners can trust them to do everything they promise.

“It is our No. 1 priority to always do the right thing by our customers,” stated JD Shoemaker.

Rooftime is also one of only three contractors in the Tristate that are Owens Corning certified as “Top of the House” insulationventilation-roofing experts. “We exclusively recommend and

PERFECTION | From 13 ment. They provide a planet-friendly approach to pest management and on-going preventive inspections to keep your property protected. They always respond promptly and you can rely on their team to always be professional and on time.

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For more information on Perfection Pest Control and Handyman visit their website at www.perfectionpest.com or call 859525-8560 for a trained professional to assess your handyman needs or pest control issues.

install the Owens Corning line of products,” explained Shoemaker.

“Homeowners know and trust the OC brand, plus the quality, price and selection are second to anything else out there.”

Rooftime crews are required to always be up to date on the newest products, technology and codes, through company paid seminars and certifications’ annually conducted by Owens Corning. The company also uses qualified estimators that do not work on commission. This ensures that the customer always receives an honest estimate.

“We’re not the biggest company,” said Shoemaker. “There are some that have been around longer, some that are cheaper, some that are more expensive, but there is not a company that will provide the level of detail or work as hard for a homeowner as we will.”

Most roofing companies can only be reached weekdays 8 to 5.

The reality, however, is that a storm can happen on nights, weekends, and holidays. “If you need us we’re there,” said Shoemaker. “We know if someone is calling it means they need help, so we forward our office lines to an emergency cell to be available.”

Rooftime provides free written estimates and will explain what they can do to fix a home’s issues. Services include new roofs, roof repairs, attic insulation, and seamless gutters, and are among the best in the city.

They also are box gutter experts and love working on older homes. Their use of digital cameras, satellite measurements, and thermal camera scans allow them to provide “to-the-inch measurements for to-the-penny pricing’ Visit the website at www.newrooftime.com or call 513-753-8463 to get a free inspection of your roof, attic insulation or gutter system.