Spring Home Improvement - 2022

Spring

HOME IMPROVEMENT

A supplement to East Bay Newspapers • April 20-21, 2022

Page 2 Spring Home Improvement 2022

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Spring Home Improvement 2022 Page 3

Smart savings during any home renovation project Many home renovations will produce a great return on investment, especially if you can save some along the way Do you still have an avocado green kitchen? Is your living room dank and dark? Perhaps there is only one bathroom for a family of six? Answering yes to any of these questions could serve as the catalyst for a home renovation project.

Home improvement projects come in all shapes and sizes — some with huge budgets and others that are more cost-conscious. Regardless of what homeowners hope to achieve with their renovations, a common goal across any price point is a desire to save as much money as possible. Home renovations can be expensive, but there are ways to cut costs.

Assess the merit of the project Remodeling magazine annually publishes a “Cost vs. Value Report” that lists the average cost and return on investment homeowners can expect of

tasks. Don’t waste money by trying tough jobs yourself; rely on an experienced contractor who can get supplies for less money and will do the job right the first time. Compare bids from several different contractors and figure out the best value.

Refurbish existing features

There are small ways to save money on many home renovation projects, but it also pays to hire a professional. various types of projects. If you’re planning to sell your home soon, it may be best to focus on repairs and renovations that will generate the most substantial ROI.

Hire a contractor Even avid do-it-yourselfers can sometimes benefit from a contractor’s expertise, particularly for complex

Rather than a complete gut and rebuild, figure out where you can revitalize existing fixtures and more. For example, refinishing existing cabinets can save you up to 50 percent compared with the cost of new cabinetry, according to Angi (formerly Angie’s List), a cost comparison and business review resource.

Avoid peak seasons You’ll pay more to install a deck or a pool right before the outdoor entertaining season. There also may be a premium to get work done right before a major holiday. Therefore, consult the calendar to find an off time for a renovation and book it then to save.

Do some prep work You might be able to save by doing some of the demolition and preparatory work yourself. For example, you can tear up old carpeting before the installation of new tile floors. Perhaps you can mend and patch up walls before a paint job.

Choose midgrade materials

Buy a display item

Certain materials may be all the rage but they come with a higher price tag.

Angi reports that granite counters could be $60 to $100 per square foot.

However, a composite or laminate that looks like granite and wears well may be $10 to $40 per square foot. Figure out where you can choose middle-ofthe-road materials for maximum value.

Former showroom kitchens and baths often are sourced at a fraction of their recommended retail prices, according to Real Homes. Retailers often update their displays and you may score existing showroom items at a discount.

Renovations can be expensive, but there are many different ways to cut costs.

Page 4 Spring Home Improvement 2022

7 things to know before replacing windows The decision to replace windows often comes down to aesthetics and necessity.

Drafty windows can reduce energy efficiency in a home, requiring HVAC systems to work harder to keep interiors comfortable. The harder the HVAC must work, the more homeowners will pay in energy costs.

Old windows also may be points of entry for water and insects. Despite the importance of windows, Money magazine advises that new windows make up only a fraction of the home’s total exterior “envelope,” resulting in only about 5 to 15 percent of total energy savings.

But there are still plenty of reasons to invest in new windows.

1. Vinyl or aluminum may be best. Lumber is farmed rather quickly today, and solid wood products may not stand up to elements as well as wood used a half-century ago. To

Choose the right windows; make sure they are installed correctly.

avoid rot, vinyl windows often are an affordable and durable choice. Homeowners also have the option of wood windows with aluminum cladding, which are long-lasting.

2. Moisture problems indicate windows need to be replaced. Condensation that shows up as fogging between double-pane windows or on the inside of windows indicates that the windows are starting to fail. If installing a

vapor barrier in the basement or crawl space, ventilating properly when showering or cooking, or using a dehumidifier indoors does not remedy the situation, it might be time to replace windows.

3. Windows add curb appeal.

Beyond functionality, replacement windows immediately update the look of the home and can improve curb appeal since they are one of the most prominent features on the

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exterior of a home. If a house needs an update, replacing windows and can be a quick and affordable update.

4. Consider other energyefficient upgrades. Sometimes older windows can be salvaged, especially if they are not damaged and only moderately drafty. Replacing panes, sash cords, weather stripping, and even glazing may be less expensive than replacing a window. Plus, older homes with attractive windows complement one another.

To keep energy bills down, think about adding insulation to the attic and basement — which is a good idea even if you are replacing windows.

5. The wrong windows can adversely affect home value.

The National Association of Realtors says homeowners get about 73 percent of their replacement window investment back when they resell a home. But choosing the wrong

windows might lower the value of the home. It’s important to match the look of the original windows, including window material and the divided light pattern (the number of panes in each window) with the original windows.

6. Think about soundproofing, too. When upgrading windows, also think about how certain windows can cancel out noises and make homes more soundproof. Some windows can help reduce outdoor distractions like leaf blowers or lawn mowers.

7. Proper installation is key to longevity. Replacement windows are only as good as their installation in many cases. Poor installation and orders of standard rather than custom sized windows could result in poor fitting and seals.

Homeowners should carefully vet and review window replacement contractors to find the best professionals for the job.

Spring Home Improvement 2022 Page 5

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BY GINA DEPALO One of the best perks of homeownership is the ability to build equity over time. You can use that equity to secure funds in the form of a home equity loan as a fixed rate lump sum distribution or a home equity line of credit that you can draw on as needed.

Both a fixed rate home equity loan and a home equity line of credit use the equity in your home, which is the difference between your home’s value and your mortgage balance, as collateral. Since the loans are secured against the equity of your home, home equity loans offer extremely competitive interest rates.

A home equity loan can be a great source of value for homeowners to access money for home improvement, college tuition, vacation, or for debt consolidation.

The underwriting guidelines for a home equity loan vary by lender but your loan-to-value ratio (LTV) is one very important consideration. You can usually borrow up to a combined loanto-value ratio (CLTV) of 80% or less, which is the sum of your current mortgage and your desired loan amount, divided by your home’s value.

Your credit history and credit score are very important factors in the underwriting process for a home equity loan

or any other loan or credit card. A favorable credit score is essential to meet most lenders’ approval requirements. Some lenders may extend loans to those with lower scores, but these lenders may require the borrower to have more equity in their home or have a lower debt-to-income ratio (DTI).

A lower credit score will often result in a higher rate of interest. Having a good credit score will help you secure more favorable interest rates and save you money over the life of the loan.

Your debt-to-income ratio is another critical factor in the loan underwriting process. Qualifying DTI ratios will vary from lender to lender. To determine a DTI, lenders will add up the total monthly payment for the house, which includes mortgage payment, taxes, homeowners insurance, and homeowners association dues, along with any other outstanding loans or credit card debts. The debt total is divided by your gross monthly income to come up with the DTI ratio.

When the time comes to apply for a home equity loan, do your homework.

Consult with different lenders about qualifying conditions, repayment terms, interest rates, application fees, appraisal fees, title fees, early termination fees and the application timeline.

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The different ways to repair a driveway Resurface, reseal or repave — that is the question Asphalt driveways do not last forever. Over time, weather and general usage can degrade the driveway surface, resulting in cracks, pitting and more. Ultraviolet rays, salt and automotive fluids also can affect the appearance and functionality of a driveway. An unsightly driveway can adversely affect curb appeal and resale potential.

Homeowners have to consider various factors when it comes to repairing driveways. They may have the option of getting the driveway resurfaced, resealed or repaved, and each project is unique.

Resurfacing According to the home improvement price comparison site Kompare It, resurfacing is simpler and faster than installing a new asphalt driveway.

With resurfacing, any cracks are filled in to create an even base. Then a new layer of asphalt is applied over the existing one. That new layer can range

in thickness from 1.5 to 3 inches. A heavy rolling machine will then smooth and flatten the layers together.

If the driveway has minor pitting or cracking, then resurfacing can be a cost-effective strategy, as it may be a $3,000 to $6,000 job as opposed to $5,000 to $10,000 with repaving.

Resealing Resealing a driveway, also called sealcoating, is another repair strategy.

HGTV says resealing can be a do-ityourself project. Resealing helps the driveway last longer.

The driveway needs to be clean and dry, with holes and cracks filled prior to sealcoating. Start at the far edge of the driveway and seal that area by “cutting-in” by hand for a neat edge.

Afterward the rest of the driveway can be sealed using a squeegee or broom.

This project can be completed within two or three days if no precipitation is forecast.

Repaving A project best left to professionals, repaving typically involves the removal of an existing driveway and the

A “new” driveway can add curb appeal and resale value. installation of a new one. The subgrade layer is essential in the process for a smooth look. Contractors also will assess soil and grading when doing work. The construction blog Main Infrastructure says the new asphalt driveway can vary in thickness between two and six inches, depend-

ing on budget and need. The contractor also can advise if full-depth asphalt application or an aggregate base is practical.

Assessing the condition of driveway can give homeowners a better idea about which type of repair project best suits their property.

Spring Home Improvement 2022 Page 7

How to pick the right trees for your property Not all trees and landscapes are the perfect match

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Trees benefit a landscape by serving both aesthetic and utilitarian functions. A home surrounded by healthy green trees can be a sight to behold, and those same trees can benefit surrounding plants and wildlife at the same time.

As appealing as trees are, not all trees and landscapes make for the perfect match. The Arbor Day Foundation notes the importance of planning when designing a landscape. Planning ensures the trees homeowners ultimately choose for their properties will grow well in the soil and moisture present in their yards.

Careful consideration of a handful of variables can help homeowners determine which trees will make the best fit for their properties.

Height Homeowners must consider the projected height of a tree before planting it. Avoid trees that will bump into anything when fully grown, as that can

Pick the right trees for your landscape and be sure to space them appropriately from each other.

Requirements adversely affect surrounding greenery and pose a safety hazard. The ADF’s tree sizing guide can be accessed at https://www.arborday.org/trees/ rightTreeAndPlace/size.cfm and serves as an invaluable resource for homeowners who want to plant new trees around their properties.

Canopy spread Trees grow out as well as up, so it’s important to consider their potential

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width at maturity as well. The ADF sizing guide can help homeowners get an idea of how wide a tree is likely to be at maturity. Trees that spread out quite a bit don’t necessarily need to be avoided, but it’s important that they’re planted far enough apart so they don’t adversely affect surrounding plants.

In addition, wide trees that are planted too close together can make the landscapes appear crowded, taking something away from its aesthetic

Different trees require different amounts of sun and moisture and different soil components to thrive.

Homeowners can have their soil tested to determine which trees will thrive in it. Local garden centers can be a great resource for homeowners who want insight as to which trees will thrive in their local climates.

Trees serve many functions on a property. Choosing the right trees for a landscape requires careful consideration of a host of variables.

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Growth rate is an important variable because it can affect how quickly homeowners will see changes in their landscapes. Homeowners who want to plant for privacy can consider trees with quick growth rates or purchase more mature trees that are already near full growth. Those who are not in need of instant transformation can try trees with slower growth rates, which the ADF notes typically live longer than fast-growing species.

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Page 8 Spring Home Improvement 2022

Upgrades big and small can improve bathroom safety Here are nine ways to make the bathroom safer for older folks

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Bathrooms can benefit from updates that improve their form and function.

While styles and color patterns may inspire bathroom renovations, improvements to safety also should be considered.

Bathrooms can be one of the most dangerous rooms in a house. Bath and shower areas account for about twothirds of accidental injuries in these spaces. Many other injuries involve the toilet.

In 2008, a thorough investigation of bathroom dangers conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that mishaps near the bathtub, shower, toilet, and sink caused an estimated 234,094 nonfatal injuries in the United States among people aged 15 years and older.

Seniors are particularly vulnerable in the bathroom due to reduced mobility and flexibility, visual impairment and other factors. However, some key modifications can make bathrooms much safer for aging populations.

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Install an ADA-compliant raised toilet seat. Standard toilet seats are roughly 15 inches high, but elevated seats can raise the bowl an additional two to four inches. Another option is to invest in risers that can be attached to an existing toilet.

Grab bars Seniors may use towel holders as grab bars, which don’t have stability and can dislodge from the wall. Install secured side grip bars by the toilet and inside the shower to make maneuvering easier.

Water temperature Seniors may be vulnerable to hot water temperatures. Lower the water temperature setting on the hot water heater. StaySafe.org recommends 120 F.

Faucets Change faucet handles to paddlestyle handles rather than knobs. Knobs can be challenging to grip for those with arthritis in their hands. Also, handles that are easier for seniors to use can reduce the risk of the elderly losing

Grab bars, non-slip mats and rounded corners can all improve safety in the bathroom. their balance as they attempt to gain leverage to turn the water on and off.

Nonslip mats Nonslip mats or tape strips can be used in showers and tub bottoms, as well as outside of the shower to reduce the risk of slips and falls. Rugs should have rubberized, slip-resistant backing.

Rounded corners Choose counters and fixtures with rounded corners. Should a senior fall against something, the rounded corner may prevent serious injury.

Shower benches and transfer seats Benches and transfer seats make it easier getting in and out of the shower.

Also, sitting while showering reduces the risk of becoming light-headed or losing balance.

Walk-in tubs/showers Minimizing the threshold to the shower or bathtub is an important safety feature. Some manufacturers make walk-in tubs with doors that secure and make watertight seals. Showers that don’t have a lip or tub to scale also are better for seniors.

Lighting Eyesight weakens over time, so improve lighting with combinations of overhead lighting and softer side lighting. Night lights or soft-glowing toilet lights can make it easier to get around the bathroom in the middle of the night.

These are just some improvements that can create safer bathroom environments for seniors.

Spring Home Improvement 2022 Page 9

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Page 10 Spring Home Improvement 2022

How to prepare landscapes for new plants Before planting, think about sunlight, soil and surroundings

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New plants can add much to a landscape. Whether they’re replacing plants that are no longer thriving or being added to supplement an existing landscape, new plants are an affordable way to give a home’s exterior a whole new look.

Much consideration is given to which plants to add to a landscape. That’s understandable, as homeowners want to choose plants that will thrive and won’t compromise the health of surrounding plants and trees. Before planting or even choosing plants, it’s important to plan for new additions to a landscape. Preparing the landscape can inform homeowners about which plants to purchase and can ensure they thrive after planting.

Document sunlight exposure

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Plants have different needs, and one of the biggest differences between species is the amount of sunlight they need to thrive. According to Penn State Extension, plants characterized as “full sun” require six or more hours of sunlight per day, while those considered “partial sun” need between four and six hours of sunlight per day. Plants designated as “partial shade” need two to four hours of sun per day, while “shade” plants need less than two hours of sunlight a day.

Documenting sunlight exposure in advance gives homeowners an idea of which plants should be planted and where they should be planted. Jot down these observations in a journal over several weeks and then choose plants that will thrive in each area.

Test the soil

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A soil pH test is a simple and quick way to determine the acidity of soil. Soil pH levels will indicate how likely a plant is to thrive in a given spot. High levels won’t necessarily mean an area should be avoided, as some plants thrive in acidic soils. Additional soil tests can determine other characteristics, such as the nutrient levels of soil and the amount of organic matter it contains. Each of these variables can help homeowners make the right

A little bit of preparation can help new plants thrive. choices as they introduce new plants to their properties.

Consider local wildlife If local wildlife makes its presence known on a property, homeowners may want to take proactive steps prior to planting anything new. A new fence might prevent animals like deer from getting in, but that likely won’t do much to repel smaller animals like squirrels, rabbits or foxes. If wildlife is a concern, homeowners can seek advice at their local garden center about which plants certain animals are likely to ignore. Homeowners who want to attract wildlife can do the same in reverse, choosing plants wildlife will be drawn to. Homeowners who want to deter wildlife should erect fencing or other barriers prior to planting.

Clear space if necessary Plants grow up and out, and cramped quarters can make it hard for new plants to thrive. Some may thrive but only at the expense of other plants. If necessary, clear space prior to planting to ensure plants have ample space to grow.

Some pre-planting landscape preparation can ensure new plants thrive.

Spring Home Improvement 2022 Page 11

Tech to make gardening more fun With monitors, cameras and apps, technology can go to work in the garden Many people take to the great outdoors to escape the increasingly tech-driven daily grind. Though that’s an understandable perspective, gardeners who aren’t deploying tech in their home gardens could be missing out on a host of benefits that could help their plants, flowers and vegetables thrive.

Devices like smartphones and tablets have made many aspects of life easier and more efficient, and various tech products can do the same when working in the garden.

Plant monitor Plant monitors are sensors that can keep tabs on the health of plants and deliver that information to gardeners. Plant monitors often connect to smartphones via Bluetooth and can deliver information on the amount of heat, light and water a plant is getting.

Sensors vary in price, and some

will provide more information than others. But these sensors are ideal for gardeners who love their plants but often forget to check up on them each day.

Garden camera Critters and insects are the bane of many gardeners’ existence. Determining just what is nibbling away at flowers and plants isn’t always so easy, as many animals are savvy enough to restrict their dining to the middle of the night and insects are so small they can be hard to spot.

Garden cameras can serve as the watchmen of a garden and gardeners can review footage to determine just who is compromising all of their hard work. They can then use that knowledge to remedy the situation and give their plants a better chance to thrive.

Weather station Even the most seasoned gardeners cannot document the conditions outside as effectively as a good weather sensor. Weather sensors track conditions such as tempera-

ture, relative humidity and air quality. This information can then be paired with irrigation devices to ensure plants get all the care they need to thrive throughout the season.

Garden hub Avid gardeners have traditionally had to arrange for neighbors or loved ones to tend to their plants when they leave home for vacation or weekend getaways. Garden hubs can take care of that by pairing with smart irrigation systems that ensure plants are watered even when no one is home. Certain hubs even gather and analyze local weather conditions to develop a watering schedule to ensure plants thrive.

These hubs aren’t just handy when on vacation, as they can be great for gardeners who want to know things about their plants that are not apparent to the naked eye.

People may see their gardens as welcome respites from their devices. But garden gadgets can help plants thrive and make time in the garden that much more enjoyable.

New technologies can help gardeners monitor their plants, critters and insects, and the weather.

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Page 12 Spring Home Improvement 2022

6 ways to make your garden more successful Good soil, good light and good gardening can produce healthy crops Homeowners enjoy gardening for many different reasons. In addition to adding beauty to a property, gardens can offset grocery costs by yielding tasty produce. They also offer important habitats and food sources for both insects and animals.

While growing a vegetable or flower garden can turn into a rewarding hobby, or even a passion, gardening also can be overwhelming — particularly when the results are less than stellar.

Novice gardeners have scores of resources at their disposal, including the advice of gardeners who have made mistakes and learned from them. The following guidance can make home gardens that much more successful.

1. Start small. You may have visions of an expansive garden growing rows of crops or acres of flowers. But it is smart to start small and build on what you find successful, which includes plants that thrive in your lawn and

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This also is beneficial if you are unsure of vegetable yields. Several blooming plants producing bushels of crops can be overwhelming, especially if you can’t get to harvesting or cooking them in a timely fashion.

2. Assess the soil. Plants need nutrient-rich soil to encourage extensive root systems and produce strong, hardy plants. Nourish soil with organic matter, such as manure, compost, shredded leaves, and natural mulch.

Add this organic matter in the offseason to give it enough time to be incorporated into the ground before

spring. You can have your soil tested for pH and other characteristics that make it friendly or averse to plants at a local garden center.

3. Arm yourself with knowledge.

Do you know how deeply to plant seeds and how far apart to space plants? Are you aware of the sunlight needs of certain flowers or plants? If not, read the packaging and do your research so your plants have the best chance of not only sprouting, but also surviving. Many people prefer to start seedlings indoors in late winter and then transfer those plants outdoors when they are stronger and more

established.

4. Sit in your yard and observe.

Watch the way the sunlight dances over areas of your landscape. Take note of which areas get the most sun and shade. This will help you plan what to plant and where to plant it.

Vegetable gardens tend to need ample sunlight to bear pick-worthy produce.

You can give plants a leg up by growing them in optimal conditions.

5. Choose hardy varieties. Certain plants have been bred to thrive in your climate, including heat-tolerant plants for climates with sweltering summer sun. Consult with a local gardening center to figure out which plant zone you are in and which plants will do best within that zone.

6. Use rainwater. Rainwater contains fewer contaminants and additives than tap water, which can benefit garden plants. Collect rainwater in rain barrels and use irrigation systems to deliver it to the garden.

Home gardens can yield many gifts, from flowers to fruit. Beginners can utilize some time-tested strategies to increase their chances of planting a successful garden.

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Signs that it’s time to overhaul the kitchen Kitchen renovations can add instant appeal — and improve quality of life Remodeling a kitchen adds value to a home. Remodeling Magazine’s “Cost vs. Value Report” indicates mid-range kitchen remodels cost about $66,000, and homeowners can expect to recover about 60 to 80 percent of that cost at resale.

Homeowners may wonder if remodeling their kitchens is worth the investment. But homeowners should not just consider cost, but also the current conditions of their kitchens when deciding if a renovation project is the right move to make. These signs indicate it may be time to renovate a kitchen.

Breakers are triggered If the lights go dark from a

tripped circuit breaker every time you try to microwave and run the toaster oven at the same time, your wiring is likely not up to the task of handling the workload and could be out of date. A kitchen remodel will assess wiring load needs and an electric overhaul may be necessary.

carefully designed remodel can improve lighting with under-cabinet lights, pendants, overhead lighting, and even natural light to make the space attractive and more functional.

Frequent run-ins

Lack of storage One of the biggest hassles homeowners encounter in their kitchens is a lack of storage space. If making a meal involves a Jenga-like stacking and rearranging of kitchen tools, or if an avalanche occurs whenever you search for an item, you might need more storage. A carefully planned redesign can achieve this, even in a smaller kitchen.

The benefits of more space, better flow and more storage may outweigh the actual costs.

According to CRD Design, appliances are only expected to last around 10 to 15 years. If appliances have become unsafe or energy hogs, it could be time for a remodel.

Family is expanding (or shrinking)

Outdated appliances Even if your appliances are not avocado green or mustard yellow relics of the 1970s, they might still need to be replaced.

Kitchens often are the heart of a home. They need to meet the needs of the family that resides in that home. A remod-

el can add space as needed.

On the flip side, when a couple becomes empty nesters, kitchens can be redesigned and downsized to reflect their new needs and desires, such as the addition of a wine chiller or espresso station.

Poor lighting Task lighting is essential in a kitchen, but older homes may not be equipped with lighting where it’s most needed. A

The notion that you can have too many cooks in the kitchen refers to having too many people trying to pitch in or offer their opinions. However, it also can apply to when too many people are gathering in a small space. Redesigning a kitchen can improve the efficiency of a space and make the room feel larger.

Aesthetic appeal Many kitchen remodels have been inspired by unsightly kitchens. Cosmetic changes can lead to big improvements.

Kitchen renovations can add instant appeal and help address issues that tend to plague outdated rooms.

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At Budget Blinds of Newport, we partner with you to create custom window treatments perfectly suited to your space. From our free, in-home design consultation process to our professional installation services, we’re with you every step of the way.

Why choose us? We're a local, family-owned business with deep roots right here in Lil' Rhody. We take pride in what we do and our goal is always to provide you with exceptional customer service, tons of design options, help when you need it, and of course - stunning results every time. Our customers love us!

Blinds • Shades • Shutters • Drapes • Home Automation

401-247-1100 • bbnewport@budgetblinds.com

Meet the team! Kristy, Rory, Stacey, Gannon and new additions: Addy and Steve from 5 Star Installations © 2022 Budget Blinds, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Budget Blinds is a trademark of Budget Blinds, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts Brand. Each franchise independently owned and operated.

Page 14 Spring Home Improvement 2022

Peckham's Greenhouse Est. 1866

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Whether there’s a ledge, overhang, small terrace, or porch off the house, turn it into a relaxing area for reading a book or sipping a beverage.

Expand living spaces with clever ideas Homeowners looking to add more space to their homes do not necessarily need to make major renovations. They simply have to see the possibilities in outdoor living spaces.

Outdoor living spaces are coveted niches in a home. The American Home Furnishings Alliance says more than 70 percent of American households have outdoor living spaces, and nearly 70 percent of people use these spaces at least once per week in-season. Furthermore, homeowners are increasingly interested in enhancing these spaces to make them more usable and comfortable.

A recent survey from the online home design and remodeling resource Houzz found that more than 4,500 users were planning a landscape update. In addition, 56 percent of homeowners surveyed were making updates to improve their yards for entertaining.

While the creation of outdoor living spaces can cost thousands of dollars depending on the renovation, homeowners have more budget-friendly options at their disposal as well. The following are some ways to create inviting spaces no matter how much squarefootage is present.

Revamp a garage or shed Rather than turning a storage area into a catch-all for items time forgot, clean out the space and put it to better

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Create a relaxing nook Whether there’s a ledge, overhang, small terrace, or porch off the house, turn it into a relaxing area for reading a book or sipping a beverage. Use a few outdoor pillows, pull up a small folding table and dress the area with hanging lights and potted plants for a quiet retreat.

Add privacy to a porch If it’s privacy you covet, install curtain rods and hang lightweight mesh or another translucent material that obscures neighbors’ views without blocking out natural light. Invest in outdoor sofas and chaises to create an outdoor living room right on the porch.

If your budget allows, consider closing in the porch as a true three-season room so it can be used throughout fall, spring and summer.

Outdoor living spaces are booming and highly achievable, and many such spaces need not be expensive.

DJ

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use. For instance, kids may appreciate their own clubhouse away from the main living area.

These spaces also can be handy bonus rooms for when Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate and backyard guests need to seek shelter. Wall art, curtains, a pendant light, and some comfortable outdoor-compatible furniture can quickly transform a space.

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Spring Home Improvement 2022 Page 15

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Page 16 Spring Home Improvement 2022

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