Spring Home Improvement 2021

Carter County Home & Garden Your Home and Garden Guide For Northeast Tennessee and Western North Carolina

Choosing the right lighting inside your home

Elizabethton Star Publication

How to respond to pesticide poisoning

Exploring different backyard structures

March 31, 2021

How to choose the right lighting inside your home METRO - Lighting in a home serves both practical and aesthetic purposes. It’s easy to maneuver around a well-lit home, reducing the risk of slips and falls, and the right lighting can help homeowners create their desired ambiance, which typically changes depending on which room you’re in.

When choosing lighting for their homes, homeowners must walk a fine line between appearance and functionality.

A fixture in the foyer that instantly impresses visitors likely won’t prove as awe-inspiring if it’s installed in the living room. When choosing lighting for a home, some general rules about what works in each room can help homeowners make the most informed decision.

Kitchen Kitchens are often the busiest room in a home, so lighting here can be especially important. A kitchen often benefits, both practically and aesthetically, from different types of lighting. For example, pendant lighting above kitchen islands can make meal preparation easier and safer, but such lighting likely won’t work in breakfast nooks and informal dining areas in the kitchen.

Recessed lighting works best in such areas. In kitchens with no island, under-cabinet lighting can be used to illuminate countertops and simplify meal preparation.

Formal dining room Many people enjoy the look of chandeliers in formal dining rooms, and such fixtures can be installed directly above

not take up any visual space in the room. That can help living rooms feel bigger.

A professional consultation with a lighting expert or interior decorator can help homeowners find lights that provide both practical and aesthetic appeal.

has neither style, homeowners should recognize that it will cost considerably less to install track lighting than recessed lighting. Better Homes & Gardens notes that flexible track lighting provides ambient, task or accent lighting, and track lights can even be moved to change lighting schemes at any time, making them a budgetfriendly option for homeowners whose living rooms are multi-purpose spaces. Recessed lighting also works well in living rooms, especially ones with low ceilings. That’s because recessed lighting is installed into the ceiling, meaning it does

the dinner table. The interior design experts at Better Homes & Gardens advise hanging chandeliers roughly 33 inches above the table in dining rooms with eight-foot ceilings, adding three inches for each additional foot above eight feet. Darkened dining areas may be ideal in restaurants, but homeowners may want to split the difference at home and choose dimmable chandeliers for their dining rooms. This allows homeowners to dim the lights for romantic dinners but turn them up for family gatherings with lots of people around the table.

Living room Adaptability also is important in the living room, where homeowners may host anything from movie nights to book clubs to parties for the big game. It can be a tall order to accommodate such a wide range of activities, and many homeowners come down to deciding between recessed lighting and track lighting.

If the living room currently 3

Bedroom The home improvement experts at BobVila.com note that bedroom lighting should provide enough light when getting dressed, but also be able to be toned down as residents prepare for their bedtime routines. Both portable and installed lighting can be used in bedrooms to serve these various functions.

Recessed fixtures that dim can ensure there’s ample light to get dressed in the morning, but they also can be dimmed at night as residents try to get ready to sleep. Portable nightstand lights can make it easier for couples sharing a bedroom, allowing one person to stay up and read while the other goes to sleep.

Homeowners have many options and many needs when choosing lighting for their homes. A professional consultation with a lighting expert or interior decorator can help homeowners find lights that provide both practical and aesthetic appeal.

Safety first when power washing your home this spring METRO - Spring cleaning is a great way for homeowners to clear their homes of clutter. As people spend extra time indoors in winter, items can quickly pile up around the house. Spring is a great time to clean up such clutter, but interior spaces are not the only areas of a home that can benefit from some extra attention once the weather warms up.

Harsh winters can take a toll on home exteriors. Dirt and grime can build up on exterior home surfaces over the course of the winter, affecting the appearance of the siding of a home as well as outdoor entertaining areas.

Power washing is a great way to give a home a fresh, clean look in spring. But there’s more to power than simply renting the right equipment and getting to work. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that there are many risks associated with using power washers. For instance, the CDC says strong spray from power washers can cause serious wounds that initially seem minor.

However, such wounds can lead to infection or disability if left untreated. In addition, if manufacturer safety instructions are not followed, electric shock can occur due to improper use.

Homeowners who are intending to power wash their own homes this spring should first determine if they’re physically capable of doing so. Power washers can be difficult for some people to control, so it’s imperative that homeowners honestly assess their physical abilities before renting a unit. The CDC urges homeowners who determine they can safely

a pressure washer.

• Always plug a properly grounded pressure washer into a properly grounded receptacle.

• If an extension cord must be used, keep the pressure washer’s power cord connection out of and away from any standing water, and use a heavy duty extension cord with components rated for use in wet locations.

Keep both the power cord and extension cord connections as far away as possible from the item being washed and away from any water runoff. While power washing, periodically take note of the location of the extension cord connections to ensure they are not in a puddle.

• Wear rubber-soled shoes that provide some insulation when using the pressure washer.

• Never cut or splice the pressure washer’s Power washing is a great way to give a power cord or extension cords. home a fresh, clean look in spring.

• Never remove the grounding prong from the pressure washer’s power cord plug or handle power washers to take these additional safety steps to make sure the process of clean- the extension cord.

• Pause the project if a circuit breaker is ing their home exteriors goes smoothly. tripped.

Always have a qualified electrician • Never point a pressure washer at yourself check the pressure washer for electrical probor others.

• Do not attempt to push or move objects lems after it has tripped a circuit breaker.

• Never allow children to operate a preswith spray from the washer. If anything is in sure washer. Keep children at a safe distance your way, turn the power washer off and then when an adult is using a pressure washer. move the obstruction.

Power washing can give a home a whole • Never use a gasoline powered washer in an enclosed space, which can increase the risk new look after a winter’s worth of dirt and grime builds up on the home’s exterior. Safety of carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Always test the ground fault circuit inter- must remain the utmost priority when operatrupter (circuit breaker or outlet) before using ing a power washer on your own.

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How to respond to pesticide poisoning METRO - Tending to a lawn and garden can be a great way to spend time in the great outdoors. It’s also an enjoyable way to improve a home’s curb appeal.

Though many homeowners prefer a wholly organic approach to lawn care and gardening, sometimes pests and other problems force people to apply pesticides around their properties. The application of pesticides can make homeowners, and anyone who spends time on their properties, including children, vulnerable to pesticide poisoning.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, people exposed to pesticides may exhibit a host of symptoms. External irritants that come into contact with the skin can cause redness, itching or pimples, and such substances also may contribute to allergic reactions marked by redness, swelling or blistering. Stinging and swelling in the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, mouth, and throat also may occur after being exposed to pesticides.

Pesticides also can cause internal injuries to a person’s organs, potentially leading to significant issues. The EPA notes that the lungs, stomach and nervous system all can be affected when pesticides are swallowed, inhaled or absorbed through the skin. People experiencing lung injuries after exposure to pesticides may experience shortness of breath, heavy salivation (drooling) or rapid breathing. Injuries to the stomach may lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, or diarrhea. If the nervous system is affected by pesticide exposure, people may experience excessive fatigue, sleepiness, headache, muscle twitching, and numbness.

If pesticide poisoning is suspected, it’s imperative that someone, be it the person who was poisoned, the parent of a child who may have been exposed or a medical professional treating the affected person, identify the type of poisoning that has occurred. That’s because the EPA notes that the appropriate treatment will depend on the kind of poisoning that has occurred.

• Chemical burn on skin: If treating a chemical burn on the skin, the EPA advises drenching the skin with water for at least 15 minutes. All contaminated clothing should be removed and then skin and hair should be thoroughly cleaned with soap and water.

• Inhaled poison: The response to an inhaled poison will depend on where the person is at the time of exposure. If outside, move the person away from any area recently treated with pesticide. If inside, move the person to fresh air immediately (doors and windows should ultimately be

The application of pesticides can make homeowners, and anyone who spends time on their properties, including children, vulnerable to pesticide poisoning.

opened to reduce the risk of others being exposed). Contact the local fire department if you think you need a respirator prior to helping the victim.

If the victim is wearing tight clothing, loosen that clothing. Give artificial respiration to a victim whose skin is blue or if the victim has stopped breathing.

• Substance in the eye: If a poison has entered the eye, wash the eye quickly and gently with cool running water for 15 minutes or more. Use only water and do not use eye drops, chemicals or drugs. It’s imperative that people act quickly if a substance has gotten into the eye, as membranes in the eyes act faster than in any other external part of the body, and eye damage can occur within minutes of exposure.

• Substance on the skin: Drench the skin with water for at least 15 minutes and then wash skin and hair thoroughly. Discard contaminated clothing or thoroughly wash it separate from other laundry.

• Swallowed pesticide: If a pesticide has been swallowed and the victim is still conscious, he or she should drink a small amount of water to dilute the pesticide. Only induce vomiting on the advice of a poison control center or physician.

Pesticide exposure can be very dangerous. It’s imperative that people who plan to apply pesticides in their lawns and gardens learn how to respond if they or someone on their property is exposed to pesticides.

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Get ready: Early spring landscaping tips METRO - During the cold months of winter, many people stare longingly out of the window dreaming of spring and time spent outdoors. For those with green thumbs, images of tending to the garden and other aspects of their landscapes no doubt dominate such daydreams.

Draw inspiration from those budding crocuses and daffodils pushing through the last remnants of snow and employ these tips to prepare for the upcoming gardening season.

• One of the first steps is to apply a preemergent weed killer to get a head start knocking out weeds that can plague the lawn during the growing season. Killing weeds at the roots early on can mean far fewer hassles in spring and summer, and may prevent new generations of weeds from cropping up each year.

• While it may be tempting to take a prematurely warm day as a sign that spring is in full force and purchase a bunch of annuals, it’s better to know the last of the possible frost dates (check “The Farmer’s Almanac”); otherwise, you may waste time and money planting flowers or vegetables only to have them zapped by another frosty day.

• Amend the soil so that it is the right consistency — just crumbling when lifting it. Soil that is too muddy after spring thaw can harden, making it difficult for plants to flourish later on. Speak with representatives at a local lawn and garden center about which types of

amendments you can add to the soil in your particular area to enrich it.

• Lawn and garden experts at The Home Depot suggest filling in bare patches of lawn now by mixing a few shovelfuls of soil with grass seed. Then apply this patch to the bare areas, water, and continue to care for the area until the spot fills in.

• Spend a day in the garage or shed tending to the lawn mower and other gardening equipment. Clean all tools and ensure that everything works, repairing parts as needed.

• Give outdoor entertaining spaces a good scrubbing, clearing away dirt and grime that may have accumulated over the winter.

Use a leaf blower to blow away any leftover leaves.

• Check if the front porch, railings or decking need painting and/or staining. Tackle these projects when the weather is cooler so everything will be ready for those peak spring days.

• Think about any annuals you might want to plant in the landscape this year that will complement any existing shrubbery or perennials. Come up with a theme so that the entire yard is cohesive.

Before homeowners know it, winter is gone and it is time to once again enjoy long days spent outdoors. Get a jump start on spring lawn prep as soon as you can.

Grow • Design Install • Maintain 423-543-6330 • hannonslandscape@gmail.com 10

Home repairs that can sink budgets fast METRO - A home is the most substantial investment many people will ever make. Once down payments have been made and closing costs have been paid, homeowners may still be staring down sizable expenses as they begin to tackle any repairs that need to be made.

Home maintenance and renovations involve a certain measure of trepidation. Even after vetting contractors and establishing budgets, homeowners may worry that repairs will unearth problems that snowball into expensive fixes. Planning ahead for such projects and learning to recognize issues that tend to be costly can help homeowners weather any storms that may arise.

• Foundation issues: A strong foundation is key to any home. If there is a problem with the foundation, it can be unsafe to live in the house. The foundation repair company Foundation Experts advises that foundation fixes can range from $4,000 to upward of $100,000 depending on the scale of the job. Clogged gutters and water pooling around the foundation can contribute to damage, so water issues must be remedied first.

• Roof damage: A roof is a key barrier between the indoors and outdoors. Roofs must remain in tip-top shape. The home improvement resource HomeAdvisor says that a roof repair or replacement can cost between $3,000 and $12,000. But homeowners also must budget for the cost of removing the old roofing materials and fixing any damage to the interior of the home. Inspecting the roof and making repairs as you go is key to avoiding a big headache.

• Siding replacement: Another costly project can be replacing the siding. Siding may need to be replaced if there is water/wind damage or penetration from insects. Spot repairs may be relatively inexpensive. However, the home improvement resource Modernize says the average siding installation project can cost between $5,500 and $15,000 depending on the materials homeowners choose.

• HVAC update: Keeping a home at a comfortable temperature is also a matter of safety. If a system gives out, homeowners may be scrambling for a solution. Yearly inspections and upkeep, which includes changing system filters regularly, can help identify potential problems. Neglect is one of the main contributors to the failure of heating and cooling equipment. Based on national averages, a whole-house HVAC system can cost between $4,000 and $12,000.

Planning ahead for such projects and learning to recognize issues that tend to be costly can help homeowners weather any storms that may arise.

These are some of the more costly repairs homeowners can expect. Keeping on top of the home will help mitigate damage and could extend the life of major home components.

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How to prepare a garden for spring planting

The final weeks of winter, and even the first few weeks of spring, are still chilly in many parts of the world. Despite those last vestiges of winter chills, late winter is a great time to begin preparing gardens for the coming planting season.

Gardens may have to withstand months of harsh weather each winter, and such conditions can take a toll. Gardeners can consider the following tips as they try to restore their gardens and get them ready for spring planting.

• Disinfect your tools. It’s common to clean tools in late fall or whenever they’re typically placed in storage for the winter. But cleaning and disinfecting are not necessarily the same thing. If tools were not disinfected at the end of the previous gardening season, disinfect them before doing any work on the garden. Doing so can ensure any lingering bacteria or fungi on tool surfaces are killed prior to the beginning of gardening season. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, plant pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, can be transferred to and infect plants through bits of soil and plant debris left on shovels and pruner blades. Thoroughly

Gardeners can consider the following tips as they try to restore their gardens and get them ready for spring planting.

disinfecting such tools prior to using them in the spring is a great way to reduce the risk of disease in your garden.

• Clear debris from garden beds. Leaves, twigs, sticks, and other debris may have gathered in the garden over the winter. Such debris can inhibit the growth of plants and vegetables, so make sure

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all of it is removed prior to planting. Weeds might even begin to sprout up in late winter and early spring, so remove them before they go to seed.

• Test the soil. Testing the soil prior to planting can help gardeners determine what their gardens will need to thrive in the coming months.

Garden centers and home improvement stores sell home testing kits that are effective and easy to use.

Once the results are in, speak with a professional at your local garden center about the best time to amend the soil.

• Loosen compacted soil. Soil can become compacted over winter. If compacted soil is not loosened prior to planting, plants will have a hard time getting the water and nutrients they need to thrive. Loosening the soil also provides another opportunity to inspect the garden for any underlying issues, such as fungi or weed growth, that you may have missed when clearing debris or testing the soil.

Late winter is a good time to assess a garden and address any issues that developed over the winter so plants and vegetables can thrive come the spring planting season.

Ceiling Fan Directions Forward

For cooling effect during the summer your fan should run in the forward direction (counter-clockwise). This will force the room air down on you giving you the wind chill effect that makes you feel cooler.

Reverse

During the winter your fan should run in reverse (clockwise) at a low speed. This will gently draw up the room air up towards the ceiling and force the warm air down and out towards the walls avoiding giving you the wind chill effect.

10 things never to plug into a power strip Refrigerators and freezers, microwaves, coffee makers, toasters, slow cookers and hot plates, hair-care appliances, portable heaters and air conditioners, sump pumps, air compressors, another power strip.

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Key to keeping cool is AC maintenance METRO - Few things beat summer heat better than walking into a comfortably chilled air conditioned home.

Air conditioning is often taken for granted, but sorely missed when it is not working. The key to keeping cool all summer long is to ensure that air conditioning systems are functioning properly.

Maintaining an AC unit can save money and protect homeowners’ investments. Without regular attention, an AC unit will lose its efficiency, needlessly wasting both energy and money as a result. Poor maintenance Periodic maintenance of an AC unit will keep it in good repair also can lead to system failure and working efficiently. just when it is needed most. According to the U.S. Department So what can homeownimpeding air flow. Afterward, go of Energy, the average lifespan ers expect as it pertains to air inside and change the filter that of an air conditioning unit is conditioner maintenance? The is installed with the evaporator about 15 to 20 years. Home following are some oft-needed that’s located in a central duct Advisor says homeowners can checks and fixes. near the furnace. Inspect the pay between $500 and $4,000 • Keep it clean. Vacuum the filter periodically to see if it is for central air conditioning, fins and coils of the AC unit on soiled and needs replacement. with the final cost depending on the external compressor/conTiming can vary depending the unit, additional installation denser fan with a soft-bristled various factors, such as the time items, such as ductwork, and brush, advise the experts at of year, the accumulation of installation charges. With regu- Family Handyman. This may dust and whether or not pets live lar maintenance, homeowners require unscrewing the metal in the home. can keep their units humming box surrounding the unit to • Straighten coil fins. The properly and avoid premature access the fins. Remove any fins on the condenser are easily replacement costs. accumulated debris that may be bent and that can affect the flow

of air through the coils. If you cannot easily straighten them, then consult with an HVAC professional to do so.

• Check the thermostat.

Ensure that the thermostat is still working properly. You also may want to upgrade an old thermostat to a programmable or smart thermostat that enables you to remotely set and adjust the temperature.

• Consider an in-line duct booster. HVAC professionals can guide you through the advantages of an in-line duct booster for forced-air cooling.

This can increase the flow of cool air into a room that always seems hotter than the rest. Another option is a vent or register booster fan that sits on top or replaces a traditional floor or wall register.

• Deal with condensation.

Condensation from air conditioning coils can puddle around the furnace if the condensate drain tube is clogged. Clearing it out will help prevent puddling and the formation of bacterialaden water in the system.

Periodic maintenance is necessary to ensure uninterrupted service on a home AC unit.

Did you know?

METRO - When planning spring landscapes, homeowners should always group plants with similar water needs together.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, grouping plants with similar water needs together helps to conserve water, which can be an especially useful strategy if or when drought restrictions go into effect in summer. Homeowners also can embrace additional strategies to landscape

with water conservation in mind. For example, aerating soil helps to improve water flow to plants’ roots and reduces water runoff, helping to ensure that plants get all of the water they need while reducing the likelihood that homeowners will have to use excessive amounts of water to keep plants healthy. In addition, using low-water-using types of grass can help homeowners who live in areas prone to drought conserve water while still maintaining lush, green lawns.

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Exploring different backyard structures METRO - Designing an ideal backyard space requires forethought and an eye for style.

Knowing which features to include in a yard often boils down to what homeowners want to achieve in the space. Will it be a relaxing oasis or a central entertaining focal point?

People often look to various structures to add height and visual interest to outdoor spaces.

Homeowners will likely come across structures like arbors, gazebos, pergolas, and even trellises as they wade through the variety of features they can incorporate into backyard plans.

Each of these structures can add appeal, but they also can offer shelter from the sun and privacy when enjoying the yard.

There are significant differences between each structure, so here’s an in-depth look at what sets them apart.

• Arbor: An arbor is one of the more simple garden structures. It is usually a frame that is arched or square-cornered.

Homeowners will likely come across structures like arbors, gazebos, pergolas, and even trellises as they wade through the variety of features they can incorporate into backyard plans.

Most homeowners use it as an entryway to a garden or even the front of the home. Those with green thumbs may cover the arbor with climbing and trailing plants.

The Spruce says arbors date back to early Egyptian and Roman gardens and were used throughout Europe by the late 16th century.

• Pergola: The words arbor and pergola are often used interchangeably, but to suggest the two structures are the same would

not be accurate. Pergola comes from the Italian word “pergula,” which means “projection.” Pergolas were once projected from exterior walls and supported on one side by pillars or columns.

Today, arbors are usually freestanding units with two or four posts. Pergolas may be connected on one side to a home or another structure. Some are freestanding units supported by four posts. Pergolas tend to be

larger and offer more privacy and shade than arbors.

• Gazebo: Gazebos are more defined garden buildings, states the contractor referral site Network. Gazebos are freestanding units that can be built in various shapes. Some are octagonal, others are square. Like a pergola, a gazebo is supported by columns and may have low railings or built-in benches.

Gazebos also may have a more solid roof than arbors or pergolas, providing sun and other weather protection. The roof may have added architectural appeal, like a cupola.

• Trellis: A trellis is a simple, geometrically-shaped structure that provides a surface for climbing plants. A trellis also may support fruitbearing trees. Trellis work may be used in conjunction with an arbor or pergola, or be installed on fencing.

Incorporating structures into backyard designs can provide functionality and appeal.

Addressing spring ant problems METRO - The return of warm weather in the spring often marks the return of animals and insects as well. The spring season is a popular time for insects to mate and build nests. This also may be a time when homeowners see ant “swarms” in or around their homes.

Ants and termites are social creatures, and when their colonies become too large, flying ants will spread out in search of new territories and to establish new queens. This mobility may also be coupled with an increasing number of ants marching on the ground and scaling walls.

Although many species of ants are harmless, homeowners do not want to see ants inside their homes — especially in large numbers. The following strategies can help homeowners address ant infestations this spring.

• Identify the type of ant around your property. Consult with online guides or books to identify the species of ant on your property. Knowing which species of ant is in or around

your home can help you address the problem more effectively.

• Create a food trap. Ants are attracted to various food sources, such as fats, sweets and proteins. Mixing a very small amount of a food with boric acid can help control ant populations. Ants will bring tainted food back to their colonies and perish.

• Keep a clean house. Use vinegar, soap and water to clean areas where ants are seen. Many leave a scent trail of pheromones to tell others where to go for a food source.

• Treat carpenter ants at the source. Carpenter ants will not bring back food to the nest.

Instead, sprinkle diatomaceous earth, or DE, around outdoor nests to eradicate colonies.

• Work with an exterminator. If home remedies do not work, consult with a trained exterminator.

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Should I DIY?: 3 questions to determine if it’s best to renovate on your own METRO - A do-it-yourself mentality has taken hold in millions of households across the globe. Popular television channels like HGTV and DIY Network as well as accessible home improvement content on apps like YouTube has inspired many homeowners to tackle renovation projects around their homes. Taking such initiative is admirable, though it also can prove costly if homeowners end up biting off more than they can chew.

Home improvement videos and television shows have a tendency to oversimplify renovation projects, potentially giving homeowners a false sense of confidence in their DIY abilities. A concerted effort on the part of homeowners to determine if it’s best to renovate on their own or hire a professional should always be the first step of any renovation project.

No two homeowners are the No two homeowners are the same, but the following three same, but the following three questions can help homeowners determine if DIY is their best questions can help homeownoption. ers determine if DIY is their best option. or even rent, and the cost of costs may ultimately prove acquiring such tools should to be a bargain compared to 1. Can I afford to DIY? be included in any DIY project the cost of fixing DIY misProfessional home imcost estimates. Labor also fac- takes. Projects that are minor provement projects are costly tors heavily into professional in scope and don’t require for a variety of reasons. Mate- projects, and for good reason. the use of potentially costly rials can be costly, but so are Talented contractors have specialty tools may be better the tools and labor necessary unique skills that have been suited for weekend warriors to do the job right. Homeown- developed and perfected over than more complicated renoers may not have the tools many years. Those skills can vations. necessary to complete compli- ensure projects are completed cated projects. Specialty tools quickly and correctly. Labor 2. Do I have the time? can be expensive to purchase may seem costly, but such Homeowners must deter18

mine how much time they have to complete a project before deciding to do it themselves. No one wants to spend months staring at an unfinished renovation project.

Homeowners who are already pressed for time may not be able to complete projects in a timely fashion, which can make homes less comfortable and even less safe.

3. Can I pull this off?

DIY projects can instill homeowners with a sense of pride in their homes, but it’s imperative that homeowners considering the DIY option conduct an honest assessment of their skills. A lack of renovation experience does not necessarily mean a homeowner cannot successfully complete a DIY project. But in such instances, it may be best to start with small, straightforward projects and then gradually move up to bigger, more complicated projects as skills are fine tuned. And homeowners who have never been at their best with a hammer in hand should not be ashamed to leave the work to the professionals.

Television shows and online tutorials can make renovations appear easier than they actually are.

Homeowners considering DIY renovations can ask themselves a handful of questions to determine if they’re ready for the challenge of renovating their homes on their own.

After moving into a new house, it can take some effort to turn that house into a true home and feel comfortable in your new environs.

This spring homeowners can embrace various strategies, both big and small, to give their homes a whole new feel.

Turn your new house into a home

METRO - Historically low mortgage interest rates are helping to drive a new wave of home sales.

Data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicates roughly 14 percent of the population, or around 40 million people, move every year for various reasons. Statistics Canada’s Canadian Housing Survey found about half of Canadian households have either moved within the past five years or intend to do so within the next five.

While people may be inclined to move far from their current residences, the moving resource Move. org notes that some U.S. states are seeing an influx in people leaving while others are absorbing new residents. Illinois, Alaska, New Jersey, New York, and West Virginia are the top five states Americans are leaving, while Idaho, Nevada, Arizona, Oregon, and Montana are gaining residents.

People relocate for various reasons. After moving into a new house, it can take some effort to turn that house into a true home and feel comfortable in your new environs. These steps can help that process along.

• Create at least one complete and serene space. Focus on setting up the bedroom so you can retreat at the end of the day. Invest in

Decor ideas to give homes a fresh look this spring

new furniture or get new bedding to give the room this comforting feeling.

• Create an organizational plan. It can be tempting to want to throw everything in closets and unpack quickly, but give yourself time to fully analyze where you want to store items, where you may need to paint or reconfigure spaces, as well as any home improvements you want to make before taking out all of your stuff. When you fully unpack, you can immediately enjoy your hard work.

• Hang artwork. Hang a few select pieces of artwork or family photos shortly after moving in.

Surround yourself with things that make you feel good.

• Bring mementos. Your first home may bring about warm feelings. While you can’t recreate it entirely, you can use a piece of furniture or a few family heirlooms to make your new space feel homey.

• Rely on familiar scents. Break in the new space with familiar aromas, whether it’s preferential air fresheners, scented candles or baking your favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe.

Moving into a new home can be exciting. Certain touches can help make the new space feel more like home.

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METRO - Spring is a season of rejuvenation, and that spirit of renewal can take hold inside a home.

Warm weather and longer hours of daylight make spring a perfect time to imagine a home’s interior design in a new light.

The following are a handful of decor ideas that may inspire homeowners to give their homes an entirely new look this spring.

• Wallpaper: Wallpaper fell out of favor years ago, but new styles that aren’t so heavily patterned can make for wonderful additions to any room. Largescale prints can give a room a whole new feel without giving homeowners or their guests the impression that they have stepped back in time. A simple, mural-style floral wallpaper on the walls surrounding a table in a breakfast nook can bring nature inside.

• Pastel colors: Nothing embodies the spring quite like pastel colors. If colorful, bright flowers dot the garden in the backyard, homeowners can bring those uplifting pastels inside by painting an accent wall or even adding some brightly colored accent furniture to rooms that

could use a lift.

• Declutter: Clutter is often conquered during spring cleaning sessions, but homeowners who want to create more free-flowing interior spaces can downsize their furniture and/or look for multipurpose features that make it hard for clutter to take over a room. Create more open space in entertaining areas by mounting the television and getting rid of a bulky entertainment center. Create even more space by replacing rarely used end tables with a storage ottoman where books and magazines can be stored to give a room a fresh, clean look.

• Accent features: Sometimes the smallest changes to an interior space make the biggest impression. Replace dated accents like vases and table lamps with newer items that reflect the latest styles and trends. Such adjustments won’t break the bank, and they can give rooms a whole new feel.

Spring is a great time to reconsider home interiors. This spring homeowners can embrace various strategies, both big and small, to give their homes a whole new feel.

How to add shade to a deck or patio METRO - Homeowners eagerly await the arrival of the warm weather so they can cast off the remnants of cabin fever and bask in the sunshine.

However, as summer nears its dog days, the same sun homeowners once coveted can contribute to uncomfortable conditions in outdoor entertaining spaces.

Meteorologists at WHAS11 in Kentucky took to their neighborhoods in July 2020 to test just how hot surfaces can get in the sun during peak daytime temperatures. Concrete sitting in the sun almost all day reached a temperature of 134.7 F, while the same concrete in the shade clocked in at just under 80 F. When air temperatures are around 90 F, unshaded concrete and asphalt can be 125 F and 140 F, respectively. While wood decking may not be as hot as asphalt and concrete, it still can get steamy underfoot.

Homeowners who want to be able to enjoy their outdoor spaces in an array of tem-

• Trees: A natural way to increase shade in a yard is to plant more shade trees. If sun glare is an issue all year long, and it’s not just the heat of the sun that is troublesome, think about planting evergreen trees. Deciduous cousins will drop their leaves in fall and only be effective during the warm weather.

• Patio umbrellas: Many umbrellas start at around Sun-blocking ideas like awnings, shade trees and large umbrel- $25. Umbrellas can be paired with patio tables, while las can help people enjoy their yards all day long. stationary cantilever umbrellas sit out of the way on • Awning: Awnings may peratures can think about their own heavy-duty stands. be stationary or retractable. investing in shade solutions.

A cantilever umbrella tends Many are installed directly Sun-blocking ideas like to provide more shade than awnings, shade trees and large onto a home and can cast patio table umbrellas. shade on specific areas of umbrellas can help people • Curtains: Homeowners enjoy their yards all day long. outdoor entertaining spaces. can block sunlight outdoors • Shade sail: Similar • Canopy: A patio canopy the way they do inside, offers is typically a freestanding unit to an awning but a bit less structurally rigid, shade sails MSN. Hang curtains from the that can be installed over a are large pieces of triangular sides of canopies or between patio or a deck. Some people posts on a deck to provide prefer to bolt it down so it will fabric installed over areas of shade and cozy spaces. not be knocked over in windy a patio, pool or landscape, Shade is in high demand according to The Family conditions. The fabric on the when the sun is hot. Options Handyman. Shade sails are canopy can be removed durabound for making outdoor light and airy and can be ing the offseason, helping to areas more comfortable. customized. improve its longevity.

Did you know?

METRO - Leaves that fall from trees can be a marvel to behold. But leaves can stain exterior surfaces when they eventually settle on vehicles, concrete driveways, patios, and other surfaces, become wet and/or are not cleaned away in a timely fashion. Leaf stains are caused by tannins in the leaves. The pigments can be absorbed by porous materials like concrete and leave stains behind.

While these stains may wash away over time, homeowners may prefer a faster way to get rid of unsightly stains. To remove moderate leaf

stains, mix oxygen bleach with hot water and apply to stains using a scrub brush. Dark stains may require a tougher cleanser, such as one that contains trisodium phosphate. Some homeowners find success using a pressure washer to clean away leaf stains, while others rely on commercial leaf-stain removers.

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Lawn watering and fertilizing techniques METRO - A lush, green lawn is a sight to behold. Many variables are involved in growing and maintaining grass, and water and fertilizer are among the most important components.

Knowing how much water and fertilizer to apply and when to apply it can make a big difference in the appearance and health of a lawn. That’s because a well-fed and watered lawn will develop a better root system, which makes the lawn less vulnerable to stressors like drought, mowing, foot traffic, and heat, according to the Scotts® company.

Fertilize There is no magic formula governing when to fertilize a lawn. The type of grass and how well-established a lawn is must be considered. Experts suggest having the soil tested to determine its pH levels and if any nutrients are lacking. A fertilizing schedule can then be developed after testing.

Keep in mind that overfeeding a lawn will not make it grow any better and actually can damage the turf. Several small applications of fertilizer during the lawn’s most active growing period may be helpful, advises the home improvement resource Tools Around the House. An annual application (late spring for warm-season grass

set on top of damp grass. Read packaging to determine the right application.

A well-fed and watered lawn will develop a better root system, which makes the lawn less vulnerable to stressors.

or fall for cool-season grass) may be all that’s needed.

Certain fertilizers need to be

applied and watered in. Others may be combined with weedcontrol products and must be

Did you know?

Disinfecting garden tools can help ensure the long-term health of plants and vegetables. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, plant pathogens, including bacteria, fungi and viruses, cause diseases that can damage and even kill plants. These pathogens can be transferred to plants and infect them through bits of soil and plant debris that get stuck on common gardening tools, including shovels and pruners. Pathogens are microscopic and invisible to the naked eye, which is why even tools that appear clean may still contain harmful substances on their surfaces that can prove life-threatening to plants.

Disinfecting tools at the appropriate time, such as when the tools are being stored in fall or before using them in spring or after using them to remove infected plants, can prevent the damage caused by invisible

Water The right watering schedule and techniques can help a lawn thrive. Scotts® says adjusting for climate and nature can help grass to grow strongly. A lawn that has a grayish cast or appears dull green is telling an owner that it needs water. Another test is to step on the lawn. If footprints disappear quickly, the grass blades have enough moisture to spring back.

Water the lawn in the morning before 10 a.m. when it’s cooler and the winds tend to be calm so that the water can soak in. For those who must water at night, do so in early evening so that the water can dry before nightfall and will not contribute to disease.

Scotts® says to water an established lawn until the top six to eight inches of soil is wet. Most lawns need one to 1.5 inches of water per week from rain or a hose to soak the soil that deeply.

Newly established lawns may require more water to keep the soil moist but not soggy.

Visit a lawn care center for more information on watering the type of lawn for your area or visit www.scotts.com for additional tips.

pathogens. Avoid using strictly bleach to disinfect garden tools, as the UME notes that bleach corrodes metal and can therefore render tools that require sharp edges ineffective. A homemade solution that’s nine parts water and one part bleach can be used to effectively clean shovels, spades and rakes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) in concentrations of 70 percent or more can effectively disinfect surfaces for bacteria, fungi and viruses. Such a solution can be used to disinfect hand pruners and other small hand tools. Store-bought cleaners with an active ingredient that is .1 percent alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium saccharinate also can be effective when disinfecting small hand tools as well as small pots and saucers.

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