2023 Durango Home & Ranch Show

10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Saturday, April 29 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Sunday, April 30

LA PLATA COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS & EVENT CENTER

Admission $ 8, free for children under 12

BALLANTINE EVENTS PRESENTS DURANGO HOME & RANCH SHOW

Chirping birds, muddy trails and warmer temperatures. The arrival of spring signals rebirth, and it is the perfect time to refresh our interior and exterior spaces. Luckily, the annual Home & Ranch Show is the perfect place to find fun inspiration and plan the next project.

The Home & Ranch Show returns to the La Plata County Fairgrounds & Event Center to connect industry professionals with attendees interested in investing in art and design, construction and renovations, energy solutions, gardening and landscaping, and so much more. Enjoy live music and grab a bite to eat before exploring the variety of vendors.

This year’s show is sponsored by Farha Roofing, Farmers Insurance Michalak Insurance Agency, La Plata Electric Association and Four Corners Broadcasting. It features dozens of vendors from the tri-county area at the La Plata County Fairgrounds, 2500 Main Ave.

With everything from fire pits and patio furniture to closet systems and windows, the annual Home & Ranch Show is a one-stop shop to boost comfort, organization and style in any space.

Ballantine curates special events that connect your business to new and inquiring customers. Each event allows a business owner to put a personal touch on marketing efforts with the opportunity to highlight products and services in-person for curious customers.

Event Information: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, April 29 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, April 30

Admission: $8; children under 12 free Senior and veteran discounts available at the door

BK LEATHER COMPANY

Jordan Baker is a young artist that chooses a unique canvas to display her creative work – leather. As owner of BK Leather Company, she carves, dyes, stamps and stitches masterpieces into leather to create practical accessories with a Southwestern flair.

Baker’s love for leatherworking began in 4-H. She admits, at first, the hobby was a way to socialize with friends. But as she honed new skills, she discovered a passion for the creative outlet. She started with more practical projects, such as a coaster, then a bookmark.

By her final year in 4-H, she designed an entire saddle with the help of last year’s featured artists Lisa and Loren Skyhorse of Skyhorse Saddles.

In 2021, Baker graduated from Fort Lewis College with a degree in accounting and marketing. Shortly after, she developed a business plan and officially launched BK Leather Co. Now, Baker gives back to the community that cultivated her art career teaching the basics of leatherwork to current 4-H members. When she isn’t

teaching the next generation about an ancient art, she is working on custom designs on a diverse list of leather items, like belts and collars, hats and harnesses, shoes and purses.

Baker’s work is original, inspired by nature and wildlife, as well as the patterns found in Native American and Western-style art. While animals and flowers appear on a variety of Baker’s art, she said she is growing more comfortable with creating geometric designs and free-flowing patterns.

Baker will be at the Home & Ranch

Show with beautiful BK Leather Co. products. Contact Baker to inquire about custom work, or see more oneof-a-kind creations online at www.bkleathercompany.com.

Come visit us at Booth 16 at the 2022 Home & Ranch Show on Saturday, April 30 and Sunday, May 1 at the La Plata County Fairgrounds!

Come visit us at Booth 21 & 22 at the 2023 Home & Ranch Show on Saturday, April 29 and Sunday, April 30 at the La Plata County Fairgrounds!

HOW TO HANDLE A LENGTHY RENOVATION

The global pandemic reignited people’s passions for home renovations, as they directed dollars that would normally have been spent elsewhere into the places where they were now spending the most time — their homes. According to the 10th annual Houzz & Home survey of more than 70,000 respondents in the United States, higher-budget projects cost around $85,000 or more in 2020, compared with $80,000 in the two years prior. Kitchen projects were the most popular among renovating homeowners.

Even though many COVID-19related restrictions have lifted and life has largely returned to regular programming, renovations remain a popular investment. Homeowners embarking on home renovation

projects understand that a certain measure of upheaval is to be expected, but some may not fully anticipate the impact that renovations have on daily life. The following are some tips for making it through a lengthy renovation. Discuss the timeline with contractors. It may be easier to make a plan for how much life will be disrupted if you have an idea of how long the renovation will be (if everything goes according to plan). Sit down with contractors and have them spell out the details of the project so you’ll be able to anticipate what’s going on day-to-day.

Start at the right time. Some contractors may say they can fit your project into their schedules in between other jobs. While this may seem convenient and timely, your work may be put on hold if there are delays

with the other job or jobs. Instead, it may be better to hold off until the contractors can devote the bulk of their attention to your renovation.

Recreate commonly used spaces elsewhere. A kitchen or a bathroom remodel often requires giving up spaces that are used throughout a typical day. Unless you have a spare full bathroom or kitchen, you’ll need to make due. Set a microwave, tabletop electric burner and a coffee pot on a folding table in the garage or utility room. Rent or purchase a small refrigerator where you can store a few necessities. Ask your contractor to set up a makeshift outdoor shower so you have a place to get clean when the bathroom is under construction.

Pack up and cover. Remodeling one room may cause a trickle down effect on other areas. Dust from drywall

sanding can infiltrate many rooms in the home. Pack and label boxes with items not immediately needed and store them in another area. Cover most things so a film of dust won’t form on them.

Adjust your schedule. Sleeping in will be a thing of the past for the duration of the renovation, as may be working from a home office. Try to get out of the work zone as much as possible for new scenery and respites from the noises and smells.

Ease up on cleaning standards. It’s challenging to keep a home clean during a renovation. Relax standards and expect a mess for some time. Explain to guests what they’ll find if they drop by.

Renovations can disrupt life, but often are well worth the sacrifices homeowners must make to see them through to completion.

[Seasonal Spaces]

CREATING ALL-SEASON ROOMS

Many homeowners express interest in creating fewer barriers between the interior and exterior of their homes. Whatever the reason for bringing the outside in, all-season rooms can serve as a welcoming bridge between indoor and outdoor spaces.

What is an all-season room?

All-season rooms are specially engineered spaces that provide a connection to the outdoors no matter the season. They are like sunrooms, but climate-controlled so that they will be comfortable year-round.

Features of all-season rooms

One of the more notable features of an all-season room is an abundance of windows, which allow plenty of natural light to shine in. All-season rooms also can feature creature comforts like a reading nook, outdoor kitchen spaces and televisions. Retractable screens can be installed when privacy or shade is desired.

Comfortable temperatures

All-season rooms can be built with adequate thermal insulation and energy-saving features. Insulation will be installed in the walls and roof, and homeowners may have a choice of window ratings for efficiency. Some all-season rooms are specially

equipped with HVAC systems that may or may not be tied in to the home’s general heating and cooling system. Some people use portable heaters or air conditioners to control the temperature in all-season rooms. It’s best to speak with a trusted contractor to identify heating and cooling needs.

How much does one cost?

Prices are contingent on the features homeowners desire. According to the outdoor resource Garden Center Care, a three-season room can cost anywhere from $8,000 to $50,000 to build. A four-season room can cost $20,000 to $80,000 to add. If there is an existing three-season room, it may be more affordable to upgrade the space into an all-season room, but an architect and contractor should inspect the space to determine the scope of the project.

ENHANCE OUTDOOR LIVING WITH PATIO PROJECTS W

arm weather paves the way to more opportunities to enjoy fresh air. For homeowners who have the luxury of outdoor spaces, including private patios, now is the time to start thinking about projects to enhance these gathering spots.

The following patio projects can improve potential for entertaining outdoors.

Pretty pergola

A pergola is an open-air (traditionally wood) structure that adds a measure of shade and privacy without completely blocking views of Mother Nature. Installing a pergola over the patio helps define the seating area. Fun features like hanging plants and string lights can create a cozy space.

Patio fire pit

Build a fire pit right into the design with the same materials used to create the patio. For example, if the patio is brick or flagstone, build up to create an eye-catching fire pit. Fire pits not only look good, they also expand the time frame that the patio

can be enjoyed, offering cozy spots to sit even when the weather chills.

Frame it in

If the patio connects to the home, consider making it a true extension of the inside by adding walls around three sides. Leave the last open to the yard, or consider installing screens. The walls will offer more weather protection, meaning you can invest in high-quality patio furniture to design a fully functioning outdoor living room, complete with a TV rated for outdoor use.

Casual outdoor cafe

Vintage bistro tables and chairs can turn a drab patio into one that calls to mind a Parisian courtyard. Whimsical lighting and accents that you would normally think to see indoors, like a gilded mirror, can add extra appeal. Soften wrought iron and other metals on the furniture by including plenty of flowers and greenery. Don’t forget the candles and a place to stash a bottle of chilling wine.

Farmhouse chic

Transform a patio into an entertaining space that caters to guests A large farmhouse style table flanked by benches and some upholstered chairs sets the scene for a dinner amid the fresh air. For those who plan to cook and serve outside with frequency,

invest in outdoor appliances so you’ll never have to miss a beat with guests.

With so many inspiring ways to turn a patio into a stylish gathering spot, the design of any outdoor space is only limited by the imagination.

BUDGET-FRIENDLY WAYS TO SPRUCE UP THE EXTERIOR A

s any homeowner knows, renovation projects tend to cost a lot of money. The average cost of a home renovation is difficult to gauge, as such endeavors include complex projects like a complete kitchen overhaul to simple projects such as painting a room. The scope of a project is what determines the cost.

Though there might not be an “average cost” of a renovation project,

homeowners can expect to spend thousands of dollars on large-scale projects. Navigating these expenses while inflation remains high might be difficult for some homeowners. Instead, there are many budgetfriendly ways homeowners can maintain curb appeal.

Wash away dirt and grime

Power washing won’t break the bank but it can revive the look of a home. Power washing removes dirt and grime from the siding of a home, porches, walkways and patios. Local shops typically rent power washers, but homeowners who don’t want to do it themselves can hire a professional for a few hundred dollars, if not less. Power washing after winter can be a good idea, as the elements can take a toll on a home’s exterior. A good power washing before spring and summer entertaining season can thus give a home a fresh, clean look without breaking the bank.

Furnish the front porch

A furnished front porch can serve as a welcome sign to neighbors and provide a great place to relax with a morning cup of coffee and a good book. Homeowners with a small porch

won’t need to bust their budgets to upgrade their front porch furnishings. Some comfortable chairs with bright cushions, a small table and a rug underfoot can create a welcoming entryway at low cost.

Install box planters

Installing window box planters is another cost-effective way to brighten up a home’s exterior. Homeowners can hang window boxes outside windows

on the front of their homes and then fill them with brightly colored flowers to add an inviting pop of color to their home exteriors. The experts at Better Homes & Gardens urge homeowners to take weight into consideration before buying window planters. Keep in mind that soil and developed plants can be heavy, so look for a sturdy box with proper drainage.

Replace hardware

Another simple way to freshen up a stale exterior is to replace hardware. Door knobs, knockers, house numbers, and even the mailbox can appear dated after a while. Replacing these items is inexpensive and quick but can have a profound impact on how the exterior of a home appears to residents and visitors.

Special surprises for attendees

Several local businesses that attend the annual Home and Ranch Show, hosted by Ballantine Events, offer outstanding prizes for a selection of lucky attendees. As the vendors prepare for the big day, the list of free gifts and goods continues to grow.

Visit with local businesses, such as Farmers Insurance and Grizzly

Family Custom Homes, to sign up for giveaways. Don’t miss out on registering to win one of these fabulous prizes.

• Handmade cutting board from Animas Craft Woodworks

• $50 Big R gift card and swag bag from Wade Agency

• 6” sandwich from Subversion

• Electric leaf blower from LPEA

• $150 dinner gift cards from Farha Roofing

• $2,000 gift certificate for in-store credit toward any installation or service from Silver Creek Design

• Gift card to Durango Hot Springs from Silver Creek Design

• Green Mountain Grill Trek from Raindrops of the Four Corners

• Free initial visit and X-rays valued at over $400 from Pathfinder Chiropractic

• $200 Purgatory Resort gift card and a luggage piece from AAA Colorado

[Vendors]

Corners Worm Farm

Novice gardeners and gurus alike can learn a thing or two from Frank and Wendy Dean. They are eager to share their knowledge about soil health and how to turn waste into nutrient-rich soil amendment.

3D by Josh

Josh Yarburough uses his 3D printer to create unique homewares for others, including plant holders, magnets and more custom designs.

AAA Colorado

Learn about the benefits of AAA memberships this year. For daily commutes and weekend getaways, AAA Colorado can save travelers more on safety, security and peace of mind.

Aces Auto and Trailers

Purchasing a quality, pre-owned vehicle should be a smooth process. At Aces Auto & Trailers, caters to customers and offers a full array of financing options.

Animas Craft Woodworks

Using traditional and modern woodworking techniques, owner Noah Arvidson creates custom cabinets, builtins, furniture, doors and so much more. See a sample of his designs at the show.

Atmos Energy

Safety is a priority for Atmos Energy, a natural gas distributor and service provider. They serve more than 3 million customers in 1,400 communities across eight states.

BK Leather

Jordan Baker developed a love for leatherwork in 4-H classes. Now she teaches the basic skills of leatherwork to local 4-H classes when she isn’t busy running her successful business designing custom leather accessories and beautiful heirlooms.

Colorado 811

A little planning and preparation helps before any home project, and Colorado 811 provides inquiring minds with critical information about underground infrastructure to prevent damage during excavation.

Cleary Building Corp

Manufacturing, delivering and constructing customized preengineered structures for a diverse range of uses is what Cleary Building Corp is best known for. They provide commercial, industrial and residentialstyle buildings made with high-quality

Cutco Cutlery

Cutco manufactures American-made knives and kitchen utensils backed by the Forever Guarantee. As part of its promise, the company offers free sharpening and replaces products if customers are not satisfied with their performance.

Durango Fire Protection District

Want to discuss fire mitigation strategies or understand safety codes? Durango Fire Protection District, which serves a population of 53,000 across 325 miles of Southwest Colorado, will be on site to provide helpful information for interested attendees.

Durango Nursery and Garden Supply

As the largest one-stop shop for garden and landscape needs, Durango Nursery and Garden Supply offers unparalleled customer convenience. Speak with their team about the products and services they provide.

Durango Trash Panda

Rent a dumpster to be rid of waste during construction and renovation projects – whether residential, commercial or industrial. In addition to set-up and delivery, the service also includes one trip to the landfill.

Eytchison Insurance Agency LLC

As an independent insurance agency serving Southwest Colorado, our professionals go above and beyond

to meet customer needs. Chat with us to get a quote for automotive, homeowners or life insurance today.

Farha Roofing

Farha Roofing offers installation, maintenance and repair services for commercial, industrial and residential buildings. The award-winning roofing company also works with any and every type of roofing material to exceed project expectations.

Farmers Insurance - Michalak Agency

With over 23 years of experience as a Farmers Insurance agent, Allen Michalak is licensed to serve customers in Southwest Colorado and Northern New Mexico. From auto, motorcycle and recreational vehicle insurance to home and renters policies, Farmers Insurance offers products to fit your specific needs.

First Cut & First Melt

Specializing in customized snow melt systems and ice removal, First Cut General Contracting helps homeowners protect structures year-round. The professionals have served the greater Durango area for over 25 years.

Flawless Results

Flawless Results helps customers complete refreshing renovations and high-end improvements. Because the business offers financing, installation and quality products, it is a one-stop shop for homeowners.

Four Corners Surfacing Solutions

Looking for versatile options for flooring or long-lasting alternatives for outdoor use? For first-class craftsmanship, look no further than Four Corners Surfacing Solutions. The business offers a variety of products customized to meet the needs of each customer.

Fun Center

With three locations in the Four Corners region, Fun Center provides a large selection of new and used recreational vehicles and watercraft. Customers can expect friendly service and reliable professionals whether renting or purchasing from Fun Center.

Grand Valley Air

Breathe easier by maintaining air quality in your business or home. The familyowned business distributes HYLA air systems, a filtration technology inspired by natural geysers.

Grizzly Family Customs

This woodworker delivers one-of-a-kind creations and quality craftsmanship on a variety of custom projects. From builtin cabinetry and furniture to cornhole and cutting boards, Grizzly Family Customs can bring your project to life.

Kitchen Craft

Forget the air fryer. Kitchen Craft sells multilayer, stainless steel, waterless cookware. Similar to an oven, the cookware allows chefs to prepare different dishes at the same time using 75% less energy and in half the time.

La Plata Quilters Guild

Looking for functional artwork for your home? This nonprofit organization is a passionate group of quilt makers that use unique patterns and colors to create beautiful bedding.

La Plata Electric Association

Through community partnerships, LPEA provides safe, reliable electricity to the region at a reasonable cost. Talk with the representatives to learn more about the co-op’s goal to provide more environmentally responsible services.

M&R Plumbing Services

The team at M&R serves the region with respect for your home, time and wallet. The business provides professional plumbing installation, maintenance and repair services in addition to electrical services and damage restoration.

Moving Memories

Preserve special moments in your family history by creating digital copies. Moving Memories provides a variety of

customized services to digitally archive old home videos and film photography.

Pathfinder Chiropractic

Using state-of-the-art technologies, Pathfinder Chiropractic can assess body structure to measure muscle and nerve function. The professionals at this local office can customize care to the individual.

Phantastic Screens

For more than 26 years, Phantastic Screens has provided a variety of retractable screens with custom casings for doors, windows and outdoor living spaces. The Four Corners location is an authorized expert in installation and maintenance of Phantom Screens.

Pinnacle Building Performance

If improving personal comfort and structure efficiency is the goal, residents can rely on Pinnacle Building Performance for a variety of services, including insulation, air sealing, energy audits, pipe installation and much more.

R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating

As Farmington’s expert residential air conditioning, heating and plumbing company, and licensed Carrier dealer, R.A. Biel offers professional service and helpful financing options for customers in San Juan County and Southwest Colorado.

Raindrops of the Four Corners

Visit Raindrops of Four Corners for the widest selection of fireplaces and woodstoves, spas and sprinkler systems. The experienced staff offer incredible customer service for all maintenance needs and repairs.

Renewal by Anderson

Replacing windows in a home is easier with a full-service provider, like Renewal Andersen. From consultation to installation, the professionals can walk you through the process for a smooth experience.

Rocky Top Painting

Owned and operated by Jason Davenport, Rocky Top Painting covers all aspects of preparation for interior and exterior projects, as well as application and finishing touches for each customer. Rocky Top Painting has extensive experience meeting customer specifications and timelines.

Rogers Enterprises

Rogers Enterprises builds handcrafted log homes, stairs, railing and fine log furniture meant to stand the test of time. Each custom project is carefully constructed with high-quality materials for a lowmaintenance and luxurious result.

Silver Creek Design

Looking for a local design studio to provide high-quality materials for building or renovating a home? Silver Creek Design offers a wide selection of cabinets, countertops, custom furniture, flooring, tile and window coverings.

SOCO Solar Power

As the building industry shifts toward more sustainable living and materials, SOCO Solar Power can help provide solar solutions and power storage to commercial and residential properties. This local service offers reliable service before, during and after the sale.

SOCO Wood and Windows

SoCo Wood and Windows helps homeowners visualize and create the ideal space using their appealing products. From custom cabinets to detailed doors and efficient windows, SoCo Wood and Windows has everything you need to transform a space.

Southwest Ag

For over three decades, Southwest Ag has provided residents of the Four Corners with durable Kubota equipment for various home projects and agricultural operations. From rentals and purchases to maintenance and repair, SWAG offers incredible service.

Southwest Water and Ice Solutions

Consult experts in specialized roofing solutions at Southwest Water and Ice Solutions. This local, family-owned

business provides product education, sales, installation and support services.

Studs Lumber Company

With sustainability in mind, Studs Lumber Company sources quality construction materials from our regional forests, including framing lumber, trusses, millwork and more at competitive prices.

Subversion

Subversion is a regional food truck that offers a selection of classic and creative sandwiches made with local ingredients. Follow the food truck on social media to stay up-to-date with its schedule.

Sun Glass Durango

As a long-standing business in our region, Sun Glass is a trusted fullservice glass shop that helps customers solve problems in a timely manner. In addition to residential and commercial glass needs, the business also provides custom shower doors and

The Farmstead

As a small, family-owned farm, The Farmstead sells locally raised chicken and pork, as well as fresh baked goods like cinnamon rolls and sourdough breads. All products are farm-to-table, made with high quality ingredients.

Texas Ty’s Smoke Train BBQ

Whether catering small parties or large weddings, Texas Ty’s Smoke Train BBQ serves delicious barbecue and the essential sides, such as classic french fries, creamy mac and cheese and homestyle potato salad. Swing by the kitchen at the show to grab a bite and say hello.

Tuscan Sun Boutique

Mancos resident Callie Ruh puts her heart into every piece of artwork she creates for Tuscan Sun Boutique. She sells a variety of handcrafted jewelry and gifts at regional markets and events.

United Country Blue Sky Homes and Land

The process of buying and selling properties is made easier by the professionals at United Country Blue Sky Homes and Land. The business also connects clients with local inspectors, contractors, designers and lending professionals as needed.

Wade Agency LLCAmerican Family Insurance

American Family Insurance offers auto, home and life insurance policies that fit your budget and lifestyle. Bundle to receive a variety of discounts for protecting your investments.

Wanderful Wheels

Embrace nomadic life with a customized campervan from Wanderful Wheels. Consult with the team of experts on a custom build, or outfit your current ride with off-grid systems, extra seats, custom cabinetry, cargo boxes, tire racks, side steps, roof racks and so much more.

Wendy Most Agency

Finding coverage in Southwest Colorado is simple with American Family Insurance. Learn more about bundling your auto, home and life insurance policies to earn a variety of discounts.

Westwood Culligan

Since 1948, Westwood Culligan has offered quality water treatment, softeners, filtration, reverse osmosis filters and more for homes and businesses in the Four Corners region. The equipment is the best in the business and backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

SPRING CLEANING POINTERS

Spring is a season of renewal. When the flowers are blooming and the trees are budding and the weather is pleasantly warm, people often feel inspired to make changes around their homes. Work may begin with culling belongings and organizing essentials.

There is debate regarding where the practice of “spring cleaning” originated. Some researchers link it to certain religious groups. It has long been an ancient Jewish custom to thoroughly clean a house in preparation for the springtime feast of Passover. The house is scoured to remove any yeast bread, or chametz, from the home. Similarly, members of the Greek Orthodox church celebrate “Clean Week,” which is a week of cleaning before Lent. In Iranian culture, families spend days cleaning prior to the Persian New Year, which begins on the spring equinox.

Spring cleaning also has some secular roots. For instance, in the

1800s, Londoners routinely cleared their homes of grime and soot that accumulated over the winter. Spring cleaning is still a ritual for many today. As people embark on their plans to tidy up, these tips can help them along.

Tackle one big task a day

Who hasn’t started one project only to be distracted into moving along to another room? This often occurs when people discover something out of place in one space and then move that item where it belongs, only to find a new cleaning task at hand in that space. Inefficiency can make you give up on spring cleaning prematurely. Agree to address one room/task a day. Keep a basket or box handy to store errant items until you move on to the next room.

Stock up on supplies

Prepare all of the cleaning supplies in advance. Put together a tool kit of sorts with the equipment you need, including mops, brooms, rags, cleansers, and the like. Organization can keep you on course.

Harness personal strengths and weaknesses

Some people clean because they are stressed or angry, others do so to avoid other tasks. Keep personality in mind when establishing a cleaning schedule. For example, clean at night if you’re a night owl, or wait until you are feeling antsy before embarking on a “calm down cleaning.”

Tackle seasonal chores first

Some tasks need to get done to prepare for the spring and summer season. These may include cleaning the grill and sorting through outdoor furniture and decor. Spring cleaning may involve readying the pool for another year of use, or cleaning out rain

gutters to prepare for spring storms. Tackle time-dependent tasks first and then move on to others that are less time-sensitive.

Spread out the work

Some people like to devote full weekends to spring cleaning, but that can be overwhelming for others. Breaking down cleaning tasks into 15to 30-minute intervals each day can make the job more tolerable.

Spring cleaning season has arrived, and certain tips can make the job more efficient and manageable.

REVITALIZE LANDSCAPING

Many homeowners think they have to spend tons of green to get green in their landscape, but that isn’t necessary. Homeowners can improve their landscapes without digging themselves into financial holes. Some inspiration can help homeowners transform landscapes without spending too much. These simple strategies will reduce costs.

Gravel and stone walkways

If commercially installed pavers or cement walkways are not within your budget, there are some affordable alternatives. Flagstone or individually purchased and spaced pavers and pea gravel can be used to create pathways. Some construction sites even offer free stones when asked. Soften the look with moss or other plants on the perimeter.

Remove some lawn

Reduce the size of a lawn by putting in a mixed planting bed of perennials or ornamental grasses, or use landscape fabric and mulch.

Free gardening materials

Municipal recycling centers may offer residents access to free mulch made from grinding up leaves, branches and other plant debris collected throughout the town. Simply bring a few containers to the recycling center and spread the mulch at home.

Propagating plants

Perennials are the gardener’s friend when it comes to saving money. These plants sprout anew each year, and many can propagate by division. Figure out the best times of year to divide the plants and start growing them in individual containers before planting the sturdy new shoots in the ground.

Pool your resources

Homeowners planning on a big landscaping or revitalization project may want to speak with neighbors to see if they’re interested in doing the same. Contractors with business from a few homes in the same neighborhood may be willing to negotiate lower prices for the volume of work on tasks like driveway repaving, deck- or fencebuilding or installation of paver patios.

SHEDDING LIGHT ON SOLAR C

onsumers shopping around for home improvement projects may be leaning toward overhauls that can reduce energy consumption and save money in the long run. This is a driving factor behind homeowners investigating in solar energy.

How does solar power work?

Solar power harnesses the sun’s energy and converts it into electricity that can be used in homes. Many people are familiar with photovoltaics (PV), which are the panels that absorb sunlight and create an electric field across their layers.

Costs associated with solar

The upfront expense of solar panels is significant, costing anywhere from $10,000 to $14,000 for initial installation. However, comparatively speaking, homeowners can spend $1,500 or more per year on electricity, so solar panels will pay for themselves over time. Costs vary depending on energy needs and how many panels will be required to service the system.

How much electricity can I expect?

The Federal Trade Commission’s Consumer Advice says that the amount of power generated from a solar energy system depends on a few variables, such as the average number of hours of

direct, unshaded sunlight your roof gets each year, as well as the pitch (angle), age and condition of your roof, and the compass direction it faces. Other factors include the size and strength of the system and environmental factors such as snow, dust or shade that may cover the system.

Save even more money

Contact your utility company to find out if they provide homeowners who produce solar power with “net metering.” This program pays the homeowner money or gives credit for excess power the system produces and returns to the electric grid. Individuals also may be eligible for energy tax credits or other benefits.