AE H&G 4-28-2012

SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT

2 - The Eagle

Home & Garden

April 28, 2012

Shopping tips for buying a garden storage shed

rior materials. Some of the more affordable options are metal or plywood and particle board. However, these materials can be easily compromised by rain and snow. The most maintenance-free materials are vinyl or molded PVCtype plastics. However, these may look like cookie-cutout units and may not have as much visual appeal. Cedar and wood are popular siding choices but won't be maintenancefree. They need upkeep and also tend to be more expensive. But the cost may pay for itself in durability as well as an attractive appearance.

• Minor enhancements: Touches like decorative architectural features, window boxes, shutters, or even simply

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Storage space is often a coveted commodity. Apartment dwellers seek out more closet space, homeowners may desire more acreage, and even children may want more space for their toys and belongings. The purchase of a storage shed could alleviate some clutter issues and move items outdoors -- creating more space.

Household garages are no longer as popular for storing vehicles. Instead, garages are used to store the extra items that do not fit inside the home. Many people even turn to self-storage units for extra storage space. According to the Self Storage Association, the storage industry earned roughly $20 billion in revenues across North America in 2010. It has also been the fastest-growing segment of the commercial real estate industry for the last 30 years and is considered to be recession-proof.

Garden storage sheds present another place where individuals can keep items out of sight but easily accessible. As garages fill up with belongings quite quickly, many homeowners think about a shed purchase to at least keep outdoor lawn and garden essentials in their own place.

The process of purchasing a shed is not as simple as finding the least or most expensive type on the market. There are other factors that come into play when selecting a shed.

• Appearance and design: Although the function of a shed is to store items out of sight, the shed itself will be in full view in a yard. Therefore, plenty of homeowners prefer something that has just as much aesthetic appeal as it does storage capacity. An unsightly shed can affect the overall appearance of a property, or even hurt the sale price for homeowners thinking about putting the home on the market. It's important to select a shed in a price range that also complements the style of he home so it coordinates with other features. Some people choose to have a custom-built shed that can replicate the architectural style of the home and even features the same siding and finishing materials.

• Size: Sheds come in a variety of sizes, from compact locker-sized sheds to large buildings that may even double as a garden room, pool room or kids' playhouse.

Homeowners should keep in mind that the size of the shed may have to meet local municipality rules for additions or structural changes to a property. A larger shed may require a permanent flooring material, such as concrete, and may be subject to permit applications and inspections, whereas a smaller shed may not have such stringent requirements.

Furthermore, certain towns actually may restrict the size and placement of a shed if it interferes with traffic visibility or impacts a neighbor in a negative way.

• Siding materials: Sheds are constructed of various exte-

planting shrubs and annuals around the shed can make it an integral part of the landscape instead of simply an eyesore. Double doors will ensure large pieces of equipment can fit inside the shed. The addition of a pressure-treated ramp at the entryway provides easy access to the shed as well.

Storage sheds can provide much-needed space for homeowners. Certain features as well as cost need to be factored into the decision before purchase. Homeowners should compare chain home improvement stores as well as private retailers to find a shed that is the best fit.

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April 28, 2012

The Eagle - 3

Home & Garden

Gardening injuries are a major concern Gardening is often described as a relaxing and beneficial hobby regardless of a person's age. While time outdoors in the garden can prove calming and enjoyable, there is a dark side to gardening as well. Namely the injuries that may result from various activities.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, emergency rooms in the United States treat more than 400,000 outdoor garden-tool-related injuries each year.

Additionally, the American Society for Surgery of the Hand has issued warnings that caution gardeners about handrelated injuries.

Doctors from the British College of Osteopathic Medicine have also warned that pruning, mowing and weeding can be dangerous -- even comparable to competitive sports.

People don't often associate a garden with danger, but this line of thinking can be dangerous in itself.

Hand injuries Cuts and even finger amputations may result from unfamiliarity with pruning tools, such as hedge clippers or handheld pruners. The design of these tools is so they'll be able to cut through small to moderately sized branches, which means it would not be too difficult for a pruner to snap through a finger bone. Injuries with these tools often occur when the gardener is distracted or the tool slips during use.

Pruners may also exacerbate conditions of carpal tunnel syndrome, usually caused by repetitive hand movements, such as typing or repetitious work. The ASSH says that prolonged, repetitive motions, such as weeding or pruning, can cause skin, tendon or nerve irritation. Rotate tasks every 15 minutes to give certain areas of the body a break.

The use of battery-powered and ergonomically designed hand tools can alleviate pain and may prevent some injuries. Power tools require less effort for cutting, which may reduce tool slippage or misuse.

ants have irritating bites. There are many types of spiders that can be poisonous or inflict a painful bite. Scorpions in dry climates can sting when uncovered in burrows.

Wearing gloves, particularly leather ones, can offer protection against thorny objects, insect bites, chemicals, and other skin irritants found in the soil.

Bites and bruises

Sun damage

Infection is another injury that people may not associate with gardening. Gardeners often come in contact with many different types of organic matter when gardening.

Bacteria, fungi, and insects, as well as chemical fertilizers and pesticides, may be found in soil. Failing to protect hands, especially those with a small abrasion or cut in the skin, enables these substances to potentially enter the body and bloodstream, and infections or rashes may result.

Contact with poisonous insects is another concern. Some

Spending time outdoors subjects a person to UV exposure each and every time. Gardening unprotected can mean a bad case of sunburn and the potential to develop skin cancer at a later time.

Whenever spending time outdoors pruning or just admiring the landscape, gardeners should apply a broadspectrum sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat. Try to do the majority of yard work in the early morning or early

evening when the sun's rays are the least harmful.

Additional injuries Many gardeners fail to ease back into garden activities after the winter respite. Should a gardener dive right into strenuous gardening tasks, injuries may ensue. Many hospitals see an influx of back-related injuries, heart attacks, muscle strains, and lacerations come the first stretch of warm weather.

Just like an athlete wouldn't start the new season off right in a professional game, so shouldn't a gardener start strenuous activities without gradually warming up to them.

Gardening can be quite an enjoyable activity but not if a person is sidelined by an injury. Use caution and common sense whenever landscaping.

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4 - The Eagle

April 28, 2012

Home & Garden

Tips for setting up a backyard play set Outdoor play is a highlight of childhood. Being able to run, jump and swing outside is an excellent form of exercise and a way for kids to interact with their friends.

One staple of youthful play is spending time on a play set in the backyard. Parents without a play set in the backyard need only look into a neighboring yard with a play set to witness these prime congregation spots for the neighborhood children.

And play sets don't just benefit kids.

Parents who want to keep tabs on their children can do so much more easily with a backyard play set, and knowing they are having fun close by alleviates worries.

The decision to purchase a play set is one pondered by parents all across the country. There are scores of ready-made varieties available or sets that can be custom designed. The choice of which one to buy should be based on a number of factors, both in desired features and also models that offer safety.

Materials The first decision parents face is which material to use for the play set. The main materials used to build play sets are plastic, metal and wood. Plastic sets tend to be very basic and may be reserved for young children's sets. While they can go outside, they may not last more than a few years and are often best relegated to indoor toys.

Metal sets are some of the most durable and strong. They are frequently seen at parks and playgrounds. Metal play sets are often cemented down to a foundation for stability, which doesn't make them ideal for a temporary set that will be removed when the kids outgrow it. Also, you cannot generally add onto a metal set.

Wooden sets are usually a compromise

between the two. They're good for backyards because they can be taken down when they're no longer used. They can also be made more useful with add-on attachments, such as extra slides, rock walls and different swing variations.

Safety Play sets are designed for children, so all of them should be safe, right? Not exactly. Some manufacturers cut corners or create somewhat questionable designs.

Look for recessed hardware and bolts so that clothing doesn't snag on pieces that stick out.

Choose play sets that have handles for extra stability while children are climbing. Avoid ones with metal hardware that can rust and weaken over time. Wood-towood attachments won't rust and will be more durable.

When choosing wood sets, be sure to select hardwoods that will not soften and warp. In addition, choose designs that feature rounded edges so there will be less chance for splinters or injuries from hitting blunt edges.

Be sure to have plastic-covered chains on swings and other moveable parts so that fingers cannot get inside of the links and be pinched.

Check to make sure treated and stained wood does not contain harmful material, like arsenic, that can leach out of the wood into the surrounding soil.

Some parents also may want to look for a wooden play set that is made from materials harvested following sustainable forestry guidelines. This gives parents some peace of mind knowing their child's play set is eco-friendly.

Play sets can be fun additions to the backyard. They come in many different sizes and configurations, so it's possible to find one that will fit in any backyard.

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April 28, 2012

The Eagle - 5

Home & Garden

How to improve your landscape before selling Selling a house is seldom easy, and homeowners are often willing to do whatever it takes to make their home more attractive to prospective buyers.

One of the areas sellers typically focus on is the home's landscaping. A wellmaintained lawn and garden increases a property's curb appeal considerably, increasing the chances a buyer will have a strong first impression of the home.

But homeowners don't need to have a green thumb to ensure their lawn improves curb appeal. The following are a few tricks of the trade savvy sellers can employ to make their home an instant hit when buyers pull up to the curb.

• Color the landscape. The plants outside a home shouldn't stick out like a sore thumb, but a few splashes of color can make a home more appealing. For the cost of some annuals, which are typically inexpensive, homeowners can turn a drab flower bed into a colorful spot bound to catch a buyer's eye.

• Lay down new layers of mulch.

Mulch is not only good for plants, helping them to retain moisture while inhibiting weed germination and growth, but a fresh layer of mulch also adds to a yard's aesthetic appeal. Mulch made of wood or bark chips is also slow to decay, so apply a new batch right before the "For Sale" sign is erected and you might not have to apply another batch before selling the home.

• Prune trees and shrubs. Pruning trees and shrubs is one of the easiest and most effective ways to improve a landscape. Dead branches in shrubs and trees might suggest to buyers that the homeowners weren't terribly preoccupied with maintenance, and this might cause them to think twice about making an offer. Stay on top of pruning regardless of what season it is, and be sure to remove any fallen branches from the yard on a regular basis.

• Clean bird baths and other water

features. Water features create a peaceful atmosphere around a property if they're well maintained. If not, buyers won't see the yard as a sanctuary but rather a place where mosquitoes congregate and odors emanate from algaefilled water. Remove any debris from water features, including leaves and algae, and clean the filters so water is always clear.

• Invest in a power washer. Buying a power washer might be a tad over the top, but homeowners whose yards are filled with grimy surfaces might find a power washer can work wonders at restoring a home's external appeal. If plants are in pots that are covered in years-old dirt and grime, a power washer can restore the pot's luster in a matter of minutes. Spray down walkways and even home siding that has fallen victim to dirt and grime over the years.

• If planting trees, don't go too big.

Especially large trees are not always attractive to prospective buyers, who likely won't want sight lines obstructed or won't want to worry about a tree falling and destroying their home during a storm.

• Address issues with weeds. A prevalent problem with weeds around the property is another situation that some buyers might feel is indicative of neglect. Weeds are a pretty simple problem to remedy, so buyers might be correct to assume weeds around the property are there because the homeowner was not concerned with maintenance.

Lay mulch around flower beds and gardens to reduce weed growth, and pull any weeds from sidewalks and the driveway. Once weeds are pulled, spray areas that were infested with a weedtreatment product to ensure weeds don't grow back.

A well-maintained landscape is a great way for men and women hoping to sell their homes to make a strong first impression.

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6 - The Eagle

April 28, 2012

Home & Garden

Tips on creating an attractive dog run at home Millions of dogs share the homes and hearts of people across the country. Dogs can provide companionship, affection and joy. But when dogs spend time outdoors and cause damage to lawns and gardens, that cute and cuddly appeal might dwindle.

Although dogs are beneficial in numerous ways, their tendency to create unsightly messes in the yard have many homeowners wringing their hands in frustration. Erecting a dog run or using other strategies may help to alleviate any damage the dog causes.

A dog run is essentially a fenced-in part of the yard where dogs can play or be trained to relieve themselves. As most pet owners know, dogs, particularly females because their urine is concentrated to one spot on the lawn, can create unsightly urine burns.

Looking at patches of burnt, straw-like grass where a lush lawn used to be can be aggravating. The same can be said for finding dog "presents" all over the yard. All it takes is stepping in or sliding in a pile of joy to raise blood pressure. Plus, there's the extra work of

tracking down such presents and having to clean them up. This can be timeconsuming with a big yard, not to mention messy and smelly.

Containing your dog to a run will keep messes all in once place. When the dog cannot be supervised by you, a dog run will be a way to let the dog spend time outside in a way that he or she won't get into trouble.

The run can be constructed of any material you desire, whether chain-link fencing, wood slats, lattice material, or tightly spaced shrubbery.

Pea gravel is a good material to use on the floor of the dog run. Not only is pea gravel aesthetically appealing, but it also allows urine to run through into the soil below and will be able to keep feces above for easier clean-up. It also can be hosed off and topped off when gravel is depleted.

Avoid landscape fabrics or artificial turf that is not designed for pets. It may collect waste and lead to the proliferation of bacteria, which can create odor and unsanitary conditions for the dog.

Many people like to camouflage dog runs from the

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rest of the yard. Trailing vines of ivy or other upward growing plants may suffice. Avoid planting any poisonous plants next to the run so they are not

Bedding Plants Including Raspberries, Blueberries & Strawberries

accidentally consumed. It is also best to keep sweet nectar plants away to minimize bee and wasps from flying close to the dog.

If you do not want to segregate your dog from the rest of the yard, find ways to prevent him or her from getting into places you'd rather keep off limits.

Cobble rock is often difficult for dogs to walk on.

Use it to form barriers of 3 to 5 inches in width to prevent access to certain parts of the yard. Border planting beds with thorny bushes or big rocks that don't allow traction.

Do make a dog running path by the fence where there is a lot of foot traffic.

This way your dog can run back and forth and watch the neighbors go by. Again,

pea gravel is a good choice here so that it will mask paw-trodden grass.

Dogs will behave like dogs, so pet owners should learn the best way to enjoy the backyard together.

Training the pooch to relieve himself in one spot and creating places that are safe for him to urinate may alleviate destructive behavior.

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April 28, 2012

The Eagle - 7

Home & Garden

Maps reveal new plant hardiness zones in U.S., Canada

Gardeners rely on a number of factors when deciding on what to plant in their gardens and around their property.

One of the most important things to take into consideration is the climate.

Since 1960, the go-to source for climate and relation to agriculture has been the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Plant Hardiness Zone map. In 1967, Agriculture Canada developed their own map that took into consideration Canadian plant survival data and a wider range of climatic variables. The maps remained constant until now.

In January 2012, the USDAreleased an updated zone map. The map is now more precise and reflects microclimates, heat islands, prevailing wind, elevation, and generally better data. It breaks down the country into 13 unique zones from the previous 11. Individuals who once resided in a particular zone may find that they are now moved into another zone. This updated map has taken into consideration climate changes that have occurred between 1976 and 2005. You now may be able to try plants that you may have been skeptical about in the past.

The new map now offers a Geographic Information System, orGIS, -based, interactive format and is specifically designed to be Internet-friendly. The map website also incorporates a "find your zone by ZIP code" function. Static images of national, regional and state maps have also been included to ensure the map is readily accessible to those who lack broadband Internet access.

The new version of the map includes 13 zones, with the addition for the first time of zones 12 (50-60 degrees F) and 13 (60-70 degrees F). Each zone is a 10-degree Fahrenheit

band, further divided into A and B 5-degree Fahrenheit zones.

A hardiness zone describes a geographically defined area in which a specific category of plant life is capable of growing, as defined by climatic conditions, including its ability to withstand the minimum temperatures of the zone.

Summer temperatures are not factored into the mix.

Therefore, areas with similar winter patterns and average lows may be in the same zone despite having drastically different highs. Hardiness zones may not take into consideration snow cover, either. Snow helps insulate the soil and hibernating plants. Therefore hardiness zones are more like

guidelines instead of foolproof methods of determining viable plants.

Although a poster-sized version of this map will not be available for purchase from USDA, as in the past, anyone may download the map free of charge from the Internet onto their personal computer and print copies of the map as needed.

When shopping for plants, most will display a hardiness zone right on the container to help you determine whether this particular plant will be acceptable outdoors in your zone. To learn more about hardiness zones, visit www.usda.gov or http://planthardiness.gc.ca.

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8 - The Eagle

April 28, 2012

Home & Garden

5 signs your roof might be wearing down Replacing a roof is a costly venture few homeowners look forward to. According to Remodeling magazine's 2010-11 "Cost vs.

Value" report, the national average cost of a roof replacement is nearly $22,000, a costly endeavor considering the tenuous nature of the economy. What's more, homeowners who choose more upscale roofing materials can expect to spend almost $40,000 on their roofs.

Such costs make it no small wonder that many homeowners fear the dreaded diagnosis that their home needs a new roof. While there's little homeowners can do to reduce the cost of a roof replacement, there are warning signs homeowners can look for that might indicate a roof replacement is on the horizon.

Recognition of these signs can help homeowners be more financially prepared should the day come when the roof needs to be replaced.

1. The presence of algae If the roof has lots of dark streaks and stains clinging to it, that is likely algae, which can grow on the roof for quite awhile. Algae does not necessarily do any damage to a roof, but it does do some damage to a home's physical appearance, as algae on the roof is not very pleasing to the eye. Algae is most often found on the roofs of homes located in climates that have warm, humid summers. If algae is a problem on your roof, spray washing with a mixture of water and bleach can effectively remove it.

2. Buckling shingles Like algae, buckling shingles are another unsightly problem on a roof. But buckling shingles are more than just an eyesore, they actually might indicate significant problems.

When shingles buckle, that's typically because hot air from the attic is forcing the shingles away from the home. Buckling shingles also indicate that the roof is poorly ventilated, which can take years off the roof's life expectancy while driving up home cooling costs along the way.

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3. Granule loss Granule loss is typically a byproduct of normal shingle wear and tear that results from inclement weather, such as hail. Older roofs might experience granule loss, but granule loss can also occur on a new roof if a defective roofing product was used. Any granule loss, even if slight, should be addressed, as the side effects of granule loss include a weakened roof and leaking. If granule loss is not addressed, the consequences could be severe the next time a storm occurs.

4. Mold Unlike the warning signs already discussed, mold is not visible on the outside of the home.

Instead, homeowners should look in the attic of a home to see if there is any mold growth. If there is, the roof is likely leaking, and the health risks of mold growth in a home are substantial. Mold is not necessarily easy to detect, so a professional inspection might be in order if mold growth is suspected. If a professional determines mold is, in fact, present, then the mold will need to be removed and all options, including a roof replacement, must be considered to keep mold from coming back.

5. Roof rot Perhaps the most discouraging sign a homeowner can see on his or her roof is roof rot.

Roof rot appears when a roof is in considerable decay and, if not addressed, its consequences can stretch far beyond the roof, damaging other parts of the home thanks in large part to water getting through the roof. If roof rot is either not noticed or just ignored, it won't take long for water to get through the roof and blaze a destructive path through the rest of the home.

Homeowners might fear a full roof replacement because of the cost associated with such a project. But if ignored, problems with a roof could eventually prove far more costly than the price of replacing the roof.

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April 28, 2012

The Eagle - 9

Home & Garden

Make indoor mold growth a distant memory Homeowners who have had prior issues with mold know just how pesky a mold problem can be. When mold spores land on surfaces that are wet, mold may begin to grow indoors. And the growth of mold takes just a matter of hours.

According to the National Association of Home Builders, all it takes is 48 hours for a moist environment combined with room temperature to produce mold growth.

When mold does begin to grow, homeowners will notice a less-than-welcoming aroma often characterized as musty.

In addition, mold growth, which is most common in areas of the home like the kitchen, bathroom and basement where humidity and moisture levels are higher, can be unsightly and unhealthy. In 2004, the Institute of Medicine linked indoor exposure to mold with upper respiratory tract symptoms, cough and wheeze in people who, prior to exposure, were healthy. The IOM also found exposure to mold can exacerbate asthma conditions for people who already have asthma and even linked respiratory illness in otherwise healthy children to exposure to mold.

What such research highlights is the emphasis homeowners must place on removing mold from their homes. While mold is a natural part of the environment that is impossible to eliminate entirely, homeowners can take steps to stop mold growth in their homes and protect themselves and their families along the way. When addressing a mold problem, keep in mind the potentially negative impact mold can have on your health and dress accordingly. Wear long sleeves, gloves, protective goggles, and even a mask or respirator that covers the nose and mouth to reduce your risk of developing a respiratory illness.

• Fix leaky pipes and additional water problems. Mold growth can cause

cosmetic damage that can never be repaired. But fixing leaky pipes and addressing other water problems, including leaky windows, is a good way to stop future mold growth and prevent further cosmetic damage to the home.

• Scrub and dry moldy surfaces.

When addressing moldy surfaces, scrub them hard with detergent and water.

Once finished, dry the surfaces thoroughly. Going forward, routinely clean areas of the home that have had mold growth in the past.

• Discard certain materials that fall victim to mold. Porous or absorbent surfaces will likely need to be discarded once they have been victimized by mold growth. Ceiling tiles and carpets, for example, are especially difficult to rid of mold once it's settled in because the mold finds cracks and crevices in which it essentially hides from cleaning. In such cases, it's best to simply discard the items and have them replaced.

• Do not mask the mold problem.

Painting or caulking over mold won't work. When applied to moldy surfaces, paint typically cracks. Instead of wasting paint and time, scrub and dry the surfaces, making sure all the mold is gone, and then paint or caulk.

• Leave big jobs to the pros. Smaller mold growths can be addressed by the average homeowner. However, when mold growth is especially large or mold has grown on valuable items, including heirlooms, it's best to hire a professional. When doing so, try to find one a friend or neighbor can recommend, as not all mold-removal specialists are created equal. If it's hard to find a recommendation, look for a specialist who is affiliated with a professional organization.Such organizations typically insist their members have a certain level of experience and training before they can become members.

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Rte 22A • Bridport, VT • Mon. - Fri. 8-5, Sat. 8 - Noon

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10 - The Eagle

April 28, 2012

Home & Garden

Creating a designer look on a budget

Open For The Season!

Beautiful baskets, combinations, and unique flowers for Mother’s Day and beyond

Pansies, Pansies, Pansies

One of the largest selections of flowers and vegetable plants in the area.

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Huge variety of tomatoes, vegetables and herb plants to choose from.

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338 Exchance St., Middlebury Mon-Fri 8-6, Sat 8-5, Sun 9-4

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SPRING CARHARTT IS IN

A T THE M ILL ...

Q UALITY K ILN D RIED L UMBER H ARDWOOD & S OFTWOOD

Interior designers have a knack for pulling together furniture and accessories to create rooms with widespread appeal. But not every homeowner has the resources to hire a professional to help turn their interior from drab to fab.

Fortunately, it doesn't always take a pro to transform a home's interior.

The key to creating a beautiful room is planning.

Designers do it and so should you. Measure the dimensions of the room and create a sketch of the area using graph paper or computer software. Be sure to plot any windows or doors on the drawing so that you will be aware of obstacles.

Homeowners unsure of what they want should browse through magazines or pictures on the Web for inspiration.

Search for key phrases that describe your design style, such as Tuscan, farmhouse, country, colonial, etc. Then read up on the components of these styles that define it. This will help you select items that fit with the style.

Once a particular style has been chosen, create a design board just like the professionals. Cut out swatches of fabric, select paint swatches, find magazine pictures that fit with your goal and arrange them on a piece of poster board. See how the items work together. If you are unsure of colors, see which shades were used in the inspiring picture and determine if it will coordinate with your home.

When designing, identify or create a focal point in the room and build off of that. This may be a large window, fireplace, or even the entertainment center if it's a family room. Place furniture around the focal point and then move outward.

It's also important to keep scale in mind. Large walls or tall ceilings will create plenty of wall space. A small print or wall hanging will be lost in such an area. Be sure to choose furnishings and accessories that fit with the scale of the room. In other words, a huge sectional may overpower a small living room.

When choosing colors, make sure they are cohesive.

Research the color wheel that artists use to help with designing the room. Some colors are complementary or opposites and still work together. Homeowners nervous about color should choose a color from fabric or furniture and use a few different shades of the same color in the room. Select an accent color that can be used on trim or as a spot of color on a pillow or accessory.

When plotting wall hangings or other decor, odd numbers often look more pleasing to the eye. Experiment with different sizes of framed artwork or different shaped accessories for visual appeal. For example, a few rectangular shaped items with a circular clock and a conical flower vase can mix it up in the room. This is where looking at magazine layouts can be extremely helpful.

Many stores sell items that mimic the look of higherpriced items. When copying a designer room, select pieces that are similar, but not necessarily the same brands.

Consider shopping at second-hand stores or antique shops for discounted pieces. With a little new fabric or stain, many items can look like new again. Shopping online also may enable shoppers to find items more readily and see how they look in staged rooms.

When designing, it never hurts to think outside of the box. Items that were intended for outside may work well inside as well. Hanging lanterns or plant stands could be put to use in a rustic room. Save some money by making some items yourself. For instance, if you cannot find a particular throw pillow or drapery that fits with your style, go to a fabric store and purchase fabric to make your own.

Decorating doesn't have to cost a fortune or look like you pieced odd items together. By following the guidelines of a designer room and selecting lower-priced items that mimic the shape and scale of similar accessories, it's possible for any homeowner to create a room for less.

If you were given a chance to design a dream home, what features would you choose first?

Take a look at the most popular wish list in 2011 from Nudura, a leading firm in building technology: 1. Curb appeal. Home exterior, driveway, and landscaping must attract admiring attention.

2. Concrete and natural stone, rather than wood framing and brick. These homes (nudura.com) are not only beautiful, they are stonger, more sound resistant, and far more energy efficient than wood frames and brick.

3. Maximum energy efficient throughout from top to bottom.

4. Solar panels in the roof to generate a personal energy source.

5. A large, designer kitchen with natural stone countertops and futuristic appliances, cabinetry and waterworks.

6. Natural hardwood flooring like Brazilian cherry and sustainable bamboo.

7. A sunroom, a front porch, and a backyard finished patio.

8. Vessel sinks, or freestanding bowls above the bathroom countertop, accompanied by wall-mounted faucets.

9. Bedroom walk out or balcony.

10. Designer bathtubs and walk-in shower with marble tile, a seating bench and rainfall showerhead.

April 28, 2012

Home & Garden

The Eagle - 11

Tips on decorating a screened-in porch A screened-in porch or a three-season room can be a welcome space that adds viable living area to a house. Oftentimes, these rooms serve as a bridge between the indoors and outside, and they can offer the creature comforts of any other room in the home. Just as they would a bedroom or family room, many homeowners prefer to decorate this area so it doesn't look like an extension of the backyard, instead showcasing the homeowner's personal style.

Homeowners can add many accents to a screened-in porch.

Keep in mind that because this three-season room will likely need to endure the weather, including moisture and sunlight, decorating should be planned accordingly.

Turn a screened-in porch into a welcoming space with a few different ideas. Here are some things to consider.

• Think about adding sheer curtains to create privacy and keep sun out on hot days. It is important to choose fabrics that are fade-resistant but also resistant to mold and mildew.

Muslin or even mosquito netting in different shades can be draped to add some visual interest.

• Look for outdoor furniture that is both comfortable and attractive. Wicker, wood and wrought-iron are popular materials for outdoor designs. There are also cushions crafted from weatherproof materials that can add a pop of color and comfort to the space.

• Enhance the area with some wall art. Hang an anchor for a nautical theme, or some whimsical accessories to create a kitschy country feel.

• Spruce up the lighting so it's not sterile outdoor flood lights. Install a ceiling fan to circulate the air and add some aesthetic appeal. Or consider hanging a chandelier made of materials that are impervious to the weather, like seashells or bamboo.

• Just because you're adjacent to the yard doesn't mean you can't bring some plant life inside of the screened room as well. Potted plants will soften the room and add color and a homey feeling to the space. Just be aware that outdoor plants have to be watered more frequently than indoor plants because of their tendency to dry out in the sun.

• Define the entertaining space with a throw rug made from outdoor fabric. Essentially you can create a mini living room right outside.

• Be sure there is an electrical outlet available on the porch so that you can plug in a radio or even a tabletop lamp if you enjoy reading in the twilight areas. An outlet can also make it possible to plug in a small fountain or water feature.

The creature comforts of indoors can be extended to a threeseason room or screened-in porch to provide another space in the home in which to entertain or relax.

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Previous sales excluded • not to be combined with other offers 1094 US Route 7, North Rutland, VT 05701 • (802) 747-0700 652 Quaker Road, Queensbury, NY 12804 • (518) 793-8555

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12 - The Eagle

Home & Garden

April 28, 2012

Protect your garden from hungry animals Homes full of garden beds with blooming flowers and foliage can seem warm and inviting.

Planting flowers is one of the easiest ways to transform the appearance of a home with minimal effort and expense. Too often homeowners plant annuals and perennials only to find their hard work has been damaged by hungry animals, like deer, rabbits and underground pests. There are ways to keep animals away from plants — many of which are humane and environmentally safe.

Keeping furry marauders away from the garden is something individuals who live in rural or suburban areas have to consider when planting.

Many communities are growing and encroaching on the natural habitats of wild animals. With some of their natural food sources diminishing, animals may decide to partake of the easy pickings that come from residential home gardens.

If you understand how these animals feed, you can take precautions to restrict access to planting beds. Rabbits tend to munch on vegetables and ornamental plants. Small in stature and not able to scale fences very easily, rabbits might be deterred by a low fence surrounding plants.

Consider digging some chicken wire below the fence a few inches to discourage digging under the fence. The fence should be 18 inches high, and you should keep the openings no more than one inch because rabbits can squeeze through small openings.

In terms of gophers, moles, voles, and other burrowing animals, the key is preventing underground access. Chicken wire or another abrasive material put under the garden soil can help keep underground animals from burrowing under and then up into the heart of the garden.

Deer are another story altogether. They are tall animals capable of rising up on hind legs to stretch out and reach branches of trees and bushes. Therefore, taller fences

may be needed to protect the garden. But these can sometimes be unsightly, especially in a front yard. Therefore, look for natural barriers that can keep them out. They may be deterred by thorny bushes or plants.

Daisies, papaver (poppies), narcissus, rudbeckia, achillea, agastache, aster, lupine, coreopsis, verbascum, centaurea, and echinacea are available in many varieties and are not attractive to deer or rabbits.

Here are some additional strategies that you can try.

• Create narrow pathways between

raised beds. Rabbits will feel like they are in prime locations for predators to get at them in this type of situation and may be less likely to venture in. Deer may not be able to navigate narrow paths.

• Use mulch. In addition to benefitting the plants, keeping soil moist and fertilizing the areas, mulch also deters many animals.

• Interplant different species of plants.

Some animals don't want to bother picking tasty plants out among other varieties they don't like. So mix plants with ones that animals find unpleasant.

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• Use other natural deterrents. Animals may be kept away by scents of their predators. Urine from coyote, foxes, dogs, and cats may help. You can also try human hair, cat litter and soap flakes.

• Create an animal-friendly area elsewhere. Feed the deer and rabbits the foods they love somewhere away from your garden. They may fill up with favorites and stay away from your flowers and vegetables.

• Traps may work. As a last resort, use humane traps to collect animals and release them elsewhere.

IMPORTANT DEFERRED INTEREST DETAILS (when offered); Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the purchase balance is not paid in full within the promotional period or if you make a late payment. Minimum payments required. With credit approval, for qualifying purchases made on a Sears card (Sears Commercial One® accounts excluded) Sears Home Improvement AccountSM valid on installed sales only. Offer is only valid for consumer accounts in good standing and is subject to change without notice; see store for details. May not be combined with any other promotional offer. SEARS CARDS: As of 3/5/2012, APR for purchases: VARIABLE 7.24%-27.24% or NON-VARIABLE 14.00%-29.99%. MINIMUM INTEREST CHARGE: UP TO $2. See card agreement for details, including the APRs and fees applicable to you. Sears cards are issued by Citibank, N.A. Sears Solutions cards are issued by HSBC Bank Nevada, N.A. An Annual Membership Fee up to $59 may apply. SATISFACTION GUARANTEED OR YOUR MONEY BACK: Exclusions apply. See Sears Return Policy for more details. APPLIANCE OFFER: Kenmore® savings range from 5%-20%. Offers exclude Electrolux®, Jenn-Air®, Dacor, Fisher & Paykel, LG®, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, fl oor care, sewing machines, countertop microwaves, water heaters, water softeners, water fi ltration, air conditioners, air cleaners, humidifi ers, dehumidifi ers, accessories, closeouts and Everyday Great Price items. Extra 15% off cannot be combined with other Sears card discounts. Excludes Sears Commercial One® accounts and Outlet Stores. Sears Home Improvement AccountSM applies on installed merchandise only. Offers good thru 4/28/12. Offers exclude countertop microwaves, accessories, closeouts and Everyday Great Price items. 20% off cooking offer excludes Kenmore® wall ovens. Offers good thru 4/28/12. **No Interest offer applies to appliances over $499 after discounts and coupons when you use a qualifying Sears card and account is kept in good standing. Offer not valid with Sears Commercial One® and Sears Home Improvement AccountsSM accounts. See our Important Customer Information in this circular for Important Deferred Interest Details. Excludes Outlet Stores. Minimum payments required. Offer good thru 4/28/12. ***Free standard local delivery on any appliance over $499 in participating stores after discounts and coupons. Standard delivery includes delivery within the local delivery area Monday through Friday and delivery not requiring additional services or time. Retail value is $25-$79.99. Additional fees may apply. Customer pays an additional charge for nonstandard delivery. Local areas and non-standard delivery charges vary. Excludes all built-in refrigeration. Free delivery on Home Appliance products is not available on items purchased using the Sears Monthly Payment Plan. See store for details. Not valid in Outlet Stores. Offer good thru 4/28/12.

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