Fall 2012 Home Iprovement

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, September 18, 2012/Page 8

Your Partner in Quality Mortgage Products & Services First Time Home Buyer Loans Home Equity Loans

Helping To Make Your Outdoors Beautiful

Fall Tulip Bulbs Are Here!

Check Out Our Clearance Items

Shrubs, Pottery & More 1414 W. Main (Across from Nelson’s) Albert Lea 377-2372 Open Mon.-Fri. 8 to 5, Sat. 8 to 4

610 South Broadway Ave. Albert Lea, MN

1-800-323-1863 or 507-377-1863

www.tradesandlabor.com

On the Right Track with Your Financial Needs “Our mission is to provide financial products, services, and education enabling members to achieve personal and financial goals to benefit their quality of life”

I <D F ; <C I <GC 8:< I <K? @ E B

REMODEL.

Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper September 2012

REPLACE. RETHINK your windows.

Thinking of remodeling?

Think about long-term beauty and and Thinking of remodeling?

Think about long-term beauty durability.

Think about energy efficiency, comfort quality durability.

Think about energy efficiency, comfort andand quality craftsmanship.

Don’t settle for anything Marvin craftsmanship.

Don’t settle for anything less less thanthan Marvin® Windows Doors your remodeling project.

Windows andand Doors for for your remodeling project.

Freeborn Lumber, offers window andand door products from Marvin Company Name, offers window door products from Marvin forfortheir design options and energy efficiency. theirquality qualitycraftsmanship, craftsmanship, design options and energy efficiency.

®

At Company Name, helpthink you think and rethink At Freeborn Lumber, we’ll we’ll help you and rethink all theall the possibilities. Explore your options and get started today.

possibilities. Explore your options and get started today.

971 Plaza St., Albert Lea, MN www.freebornlumber.com

507.377.4284 Open M-F 7:30 am-5:00 pm, Thurs. til 8:00 pm

Marvin Windows and Doors, Warroad, MN 56763 © 2011 Marvin Windows and Doors.

All rights reserved. ® Registered trademark of Marvin Windows and Doors.

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, September 18, 2012/Page 2

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, September 18, 2012/Page 7

Know what's on the Inside First Specialists in the industry suggest that any homeowner planning to renovate should not be too hasty in applying the 'cosmetics' of a renovation without investigating the home's insides first.

Homeowners are advised to review the foundations of a home -- the insulation and the infrastructure -- beforehand. Adequately considered, these areas can add significant value to a home.

Bringing in an energy rater, inspec-

tor or appraiser to examine the home will give a better sense of the required work and avoid any subsequent costly headaches.

Replacing traditional insulation with a more energy efficient modern alternative like spray foam insulation can help homeowners address potential problems, such as air leakage and poor insulation.

and Flooring, LLC

RESIDENTIAL | commercial

• Carpet • Laminate • Tile • Hardwood Contact Todd Eden (507) 373-2600

hartlandcarpet@gmail.com 702 E. Main St. Suite 100, Albert Lea, MN

Understanding the needs of a home during a renovation rewards homeowners over the long-term.

Though what to do with your basement is up to you, there are certain things every homeowner should consider before converting their

Spray foam insulation, addresses concerns of airborne irritant and

Nordaas Retail The Right Tools for The Right Job and for The Right Price!

Featuring over 30,000 professional grade tools 80860 110th St., Gordonsville, MN 507-448-3302 877-888-POST www.the-trading-post.com

What We Can Do For You! • Siding •Windows • Doors • Decks • Roofing • Insulation • Construction

RICH HONSTAD SIDING & WINDOW 507-863-2100

Homeowners hoping to spread their wings around the house are increasingly heading downstairs to create more living space. Whether it's for a home office, a home theater room, a playroom for the kids, or even a laundry room, more and more homeowners are turning their dark, damp and dreary basement into a brighter, more functional space.

moisture infiltration while reducing monthly energy bills. Inclusion of this modern material may even help increase the market value of the renovated home if put up for sale.

NOW OPEN! Hartland Carpet

Your Basement Need Not Be Damp And Drab

398 5th Ave., Freeborn 507-383-1113

It's Fall - Time for a Change!

See Us for all Your Remodeling Needs • Kitchens • Cabinetry • Flooring • Blinds • Home Decor • Additions/Garages

basement. * Be wary when painting basement walls. Painting the basement walls will be high on your priority list, but you can't just use ordinary house paint down there. When painting the walls, use a waterproofing paint, which is both decorative and waterproof and capable of stopping water from entering the pores of the wall's masonry, preventing water damage as a result. * Take your measurements. Larger

JOHN DEERE

FALL FILTER SALE 15% Off All

John Deere Filters 12% Off for John Deere Financial or Credit/Debit Card

Stock Up Now and Save!

Filters for all your farm & home vehicle needs AND...

Be sure to check out the savings on John Deere oil, too!

ON SALE thru Sept. 30

Don't want to remodel?

Come talk with our staff about building new!

10091 State Hwy 22 Minnesota Lake, MN 56068 800-658-7076 www.nordaashomes.com

Some restrictions apply; other special rates and terms may be available, so see your dealer for details and other financing options. John Deere's green and yellow color scheme, the leaping deer symbol, and John Deere are trademarksks of Deere & company.

items, such as pool tables and refrigerators, can likely fit into the basement. But homeowners who have used their basement largely for storage should take some measurements before beginning their basement project or buying any big-ticket items. * Brighten things up. Though it might be best to have a darker or less flashy basement if the goal is to create a home theater experience, homeowners opting for a different kind of basement should look to

brighten things up. Basements can be somewhat drab, but they don't have to be.

When it comes to remodeling a basement, homeowners are only limited by their own imaginations.

Are You Moving? Need Assistance Eliminating Clutter?

Let Me Help You! joysestatesales.com

Sale conducted by: 507-373–9810 or 507-391-1821

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, September 18, 2012/Page 6

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, September 18, 2012/Page 3

Tips For Weatherization To Save On Winter Utilities Did you know that about half of the 130 million existing homes in the U.S. were built before 1973?

Older homes that haven’t been updated in the last few decades could be huge energy wasters that needlessly increase a home’s power usage and expenses. For example, the U.S. Department of Energy says the average family spends about $1,900 per year on home utility bills.

Home owners can do some quick, inexpensive fixes to make their homes more efficient and reduce

energy bills, such as:

improve energy savings:

Apply weather-stripping around windows and doors;

Conduct an energy audit to find leaks or other efficiency problems;

Change air filters;

Add insulation in the attic;

Place draft dodgers inside exterior doors; and

Inspect and insulate ducts;

Install programmable thermostats to cut down on energy usage.

Hire a professional contractor for these additional weatherization improvements, which are more expensive but may greatly

We Are Not Comfortable Until You Are!

/PNO ,MÄJPLUJ`

$

Starting at

1,950

00

Window Replacement Tips For A Greener, More Energy Efficient Home

These few weatherization tips will have you resting comfy and cozy in your house this winter--not to mention enjoying the savings on your utility bills!

In these tough economic times, we know that a major home improvement project must be considered very carefully. But the truth is that older windows can lose their efficiency, causing heating and cooling bills to soar. Vinyl windows that are Energy Star compliant qualify homeowners for tax rebates and

significantly reduce heating and cooling costs.

The following tips will help you make your home greener by slashing energy costs, while improving the value of your home: Tip #1 – Choose energy efficient windows.

Check the roof and make sure ventilation is working properly; Replace windows and doors with EnergyStar rated products; and Upgrade to a more energy efficient furnace or boiler.

Troy Thompson LUTCF Life insurance underwritten by AAA Life Insurance Company, Livonia, ML. AAA Life is licensed in all states except New York. ALMI-18424-29-XX

The TOTAL Package at One Stop

1330 W. Main, Albert Lea • 507-377-2852 Toll Free 877-974-9597 • Fax: 507-377-3301 troythompsonagency@gmail.com

!

Overhead Operator Available with SmartPhone Technology

Locks

– We Also Offer – *After Carrier and Jim & Dude’s incentives, utility company rebate, and the federal tax credit. for 9 years!

Service Available 24/7 Fall Furnace Precision Tune-Up

79

$

724 West Clark Albert Lea, MN 56007

507-373-6161

www.jimanddudes.com

00

Plus Parts (if necessary)

Includes FREE

1” Pleated Furnace Filter Within 5 mile radius. Expires 10/30/12.

Call 507-373-6161 today for your FREE in-home estimate!

Custom Glass Electric Strike Installation Door & Frame Installation And More!

Call Total Glass & Lock, you will be TOTALLY Glad You Did!

• Commercial & Residential Garage & Entry Doors • Custom Shower Enclosures • Window/Screen Repair & Replacement • Complete Residential & Commercial Lock Service • Store Fronts • Fiberglass Doors (resist rust) • Auto Glass Repair and Replacement • Auto Lock Work & Lockout Service

Windows & Glass

Residential • Commercial • Industrial

Certified Experts perform all specialty work to ensure each job is done properly

Total Glass-Lock, Inc. 311 W. Main • Albert Lea, MN • 507-373-1000

Tip #2 – Know what tax credits and rebates are available.

The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 brings back the tax credits and deductions for energy improvements. All Energy Star qualified windows that are installed in the taxpayer’s primary resident are eligible to receive a

Monitor Your Garage Door From ANYWHERE!

NEW

Custom Shower Doors Mirrors Table Tops

New Energy Star qualified windows can help reduce your energy bill up to 15 percent. Estimated savings vary from region to region depending on current heating and cooling costs and are generally greatest where there are cold winters, hot summers, or both. Visit the Energy Efficient Window Collaborative at efficientwindows.org to compare actual energy costs by product.

www.southernlockandglass.com

717 Marshall St. • Albert Lea • 507-373-9446

Visit Us On Facebook at facebook.com/southernlock 24 HOUR EMERGENCY LOCK & GLASS SERVICE 507-402-1618

Landmark CONCRETE

Call Dan 507-383-3010 •Septic System Design and Installation •Excavating Lic: #L3452

tax credit. Visit energystar.gov/taxcredits for more information. Many local utilities also provide financial incentives for purchasing Energy Star qualified windows and doors. Ask your local power company about free inspections and information about rebates.

Tip #3 – Select windows that are maintenance-free.

Love the warmth and beauty of wood but don’t want the hassles? Consider vinyl replacement windows which offer wood-like trim detail and come standard with double strength, high-performance Low-E, argon gas filled insulated glass.

Tip # 4 – Select replacement windows that don’t look like replacement windows.= No one wants to sacrifice the beauty of their home when replacing their windows. Most folks prefer to buy a replacement window that provides superior energy performance but doesn’t look like a replacement window. This is an area where homeowners should carefully weigh the choices. Features such as detailed trim, low profile hardware and simulated divided lites are a few that can make all the difference.

Tip # 5 – Do your homework.

Always have your replacement windows and doors installed by trained professionals according to manufacturer instructions. Otherwise, your warranty may be void. When hiring a contractor, interview candidates and ask for references.

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, September 18, 2012/Page 4

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, September 18, 2012/Page 5

Tips on Choosing a Quality Builder Your home is one of your most valuable assets – financially and emotionally. You shouldn’t compromise; select a builder who is easy to work with and can guarantee you the best results.

2. Compatibility – Your project can take days or months to complete, so you want to find a builder who you can work closely with, someone who can be a partner throughout the process. To ensure success, you’ll want someone who is detailed-oriented, will keep a tight rein on the project to avoid cost over runs, is a good listener to your ideas and concerns, and someone you feel comfortable with and trust.

Many contractors have the skill to do your project, but there is so much more to consider when selecting a builder. Here are our tips for finding a quality builder: 1. Get references – A reputable builder should gladly give you several references of their current and past clients. Call some of the references and find out how the builder was to work with and ask the homeowner yourself about the following points.

3. Communication – Communication is vital to the outcome of your project. Find out how your builder will interact most efficiently with you – by phone, emails, in person. How are problems or changes handled? What is the timeline of when

Easy Fall Fix-Up

you need to make choices? A qualified builder should provide you with a written contract that specifically mentions the work schedule, change order policies, and payment schedule. To protect you, insurance related clauses and guarantees should also be included in the contract. If there is lack of communication, a successful, stress-free, and satisfying project is unlikely.

you will be getting for your money. Also ensure that the best brand materials you can afford will be used.

4. Quality – Try to go see a project completed by the prospective builder, notice the quality of the construction features that are similar to your project. Inspect the carpentry, sheetrock, paint, cabinetry, and trim work. Details matter, you will be able to measure what kind of quality

Whether it’s a remodeling, addition or custom new home project, you need a builder who has a great reputation, who you feel comfortable with, stays within budget and communicates well with you.

5. Cost – Compare “apple to apple” costs of several builders. Some builders may undercut others by making substitutions that only a very experienced person would recognize. Make sure you know what you will be spending up front so you can make an informed choice.

www.fmcs.coop

• Burglar Alarm • Access Control • Power Failure • Fire Alarm • Frozen Pipes

Protecting What Means Most To You

Septic Pumping • Compliance Inspection • Demo & Site Clean-up • Pumping & Maintenance • Excavating & Gravel

P&L Excavating

• Install & Design • Licensed & Insured

Kyle: 507-383-3385 Forrie: 507-319-6664

MN License #3133

FLOOR TECH, inc.

Your Source for All Your Flooring Needs!

Lawn & Garden Appliances Televisions Tools 2722 Bridge Ave., Albert Lea

377-2500

Hours: M-F 9-7, Sat. 9-6, Sun. Noon-5

CARPET | VINYL LAMINATE | HARDWOOD Call Us Now for a Consultation at One of Our 2 Convenient Locations

2201 E. Main St., Albert Lea 507-552-1637

322 E. Main St., Blooming Prairie 507-583-2276

RESIDENTIAL SERVICES: Kitchen & Bath Design & Installation, Dishwasher Install, Ice Maker Hook-up, Leak Detection & Repair, Water Softner Repair & Replacement, Sump Pumps, Gas Dryer Hook-Up, Water Heater Repair & Replacement, Outside Hose Bibs, Repair/Rebuild/Installation Of All Residential Faucets, Washing Machine Hook-Up, Complete Sewer & Drain Cleaning, Toilet Repair & Install, Tub & Surround Install, Sewage Ejectors, Boiler Servicing & Repair, Water Service Replacement, Garbage Disposal Replacement, Radiant Heat Systems/ Snow Melt, Gas Line Repair/Install/Testing, Home Water Filters, R/O Drinking Water Systems, Gas Stove/Range Hook-Up, Whole House Piping Inspections

During the entire month of October, we will be donating 10% of our service call profits to cancer research. Call us today!

507-320-8774 Residential & commercial PLUMBING Serving All of Southern Minnesota FREE ESTIMATES

This fall is a great time to get those projects complete because many area contractors have less lead-time during this time of year. Not only is the scheduling time shorter, if your contractor is experiencing a slowdown, he or she will have more time to devote to your project.

Some of the projects homeowners typically want to complete before winter sets in include: Kitchen & bath remodeling—Since the

507-373-6421 • Temperature Alert • Carbon Monoxide • Flooded Basement • Camera System • Water Sensor

Halloween is approaching, which means the unofficial beginning of the winter holiday season. Before goblins come calling and the wintry winds hit, now is the time to deal with any outstanding household maintenance projects.

FURNACE –

SALE – The

YORK

Affinity...

BTU’s modulate to meet the needs of your home!

98% Efficient!

kids are back in school, a major remodel at this time of the year is less disruptive to the family. A one-room project can easily be finished before the holidays arrive.

Roof repair/replacement—Be proactive and prevent emergency—and expensive—repairs. Find out about common trouble spots and ask your contractor how you can locate a leak from inside.

Install a fireplace—Many homeowners dreaming of chestnuts roasting on an open fire will make that dream a reality this season. Ask your contractor about all the options available in fireplaces.

Have interior rooms painted—Painting instantly freshens up a room and can even change its look and feel. It’s best to

Fall is here!

see us for your fall home improvement projects

Home

start interior paint jobs while it’s still warm enough to leave windows open.

Replace carpets—If you’ve ever smelled carpet glue you’d agree that a replacement is also a great project to complete while it’s still warm enough to leave windows open.

Install indoor & outdoor lighting—Indoor lighting adds an aspect of style to a home, and outdoors it can add an element of safety by lighting up a dark walkway or entry door.

Insulate the attic—Insualting the attic is an excellent way to keep a home’s heating and cooling where it is meant to be—inside the home.

Replace windows—Poor quality or older windows are often a leading cause of high heating and cooling bills, so replacing them is another way to keep a home’s heating and cooling inside.

Mount closet/garage organization systems—A great idea for the homeowner who wants to get the home organized before the holiday hoopla sets in.

Replace gutters—Leaking gutters cause interior structural damage and the constant moisture promotes mold and mildew growth, so gutter replacement can save a homeowner from costly repairs in the future.

Root River Hardwoods, Inc.

www.rootriverhardwoods.com

Come Visit Our Showroom

Improvement

Loan

Competitive Rates Local Service Home Equity Home Loans & Much More

Want to cut your utility bill?

Julie Claussen Mortgage Lender VP

Jessica Waters Consumer Lender

Pat Gavle

Consumer Lender

Call us for a free estimate.

373-1301 serving the area since 1949!

437 Bridge Ave • Albert Lea 507- 373-1481

201 Main Street • Emmons 507-297-5461

www.securitybankmn.com

1300 Energy Drive • Preston, MN 55965 1.507.765.2284 • preston@rootriverhardwoods.com ____________________________________ 404 Airport Road • Albert Lea, MN 56007 1.507.377.8781 • albertlea@rootriverhardwoods.com

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, September 18, 2012/Page 4

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, September 18, 2012/Page 5

Tips on Choosing a Quality Builder Your home is one of your most valuable assets – financially and emotionally. You shouldn’t compromise; select a builder who is easy to work with and can guarantee you the best results.

2. Compatibility – Your project can take days or months to complete, so you want to find a builder who you can work closely with, someone who can be a partner throughout the process. To ensure success, you’ll want someone who is detailed-oriented, will keep a tight rein on the project to avoid cost over runs, is a good listener to your ideas and concerns, and someone you feel comfortable with and trust.

Many contractors have the skill to do your project, but there is so much more to consider when selecting a builder. Here are our tips for finding a quality builder: 1. Get references – A reputable builder should gladly give you several references of their current and past clients. Call some of the references and find out how the builder was to work with and ask the homeowner yourself about the following points.

3. Communication – Communication is vital to the outcome of your project. Find out how your builder will interact most efficiently with you – by phone, emails, in person. How are problems or changes handled? What is the timeline of when

Easy Fall Fix-Up

you need to make choices? A qualified builder should provide you with a written contract that specifically mentions the work schedule, change order policies, and payment schedule. To protect you, insurance related clauses and guarantees should also be included in the contract. If there is lack of communication, a successful, stress-free, and satisfying project is unlikely.

you will be getting for your money. Also ensure that the best brand materials you can afford will be used.

4. Quality – Try to go see a project completed by the prospective builder, notice the quality of the construction features that are similar to your project. Inspect the carpentry, sheetrock, paint, cabinetry, and trim work. Details matter, you will be able to measure what kind of quality

Whether it’s a remodeling, addition or custom new home project, you need a builder who has a great reputation, who you feel comfortable with, stays within budget and communicates well with you.

5. Cost – Compare “apple to apple” costs of several builders. Some builders may undercut others by making substitutions that only a very experienced person would recognize. Make sure you know what you will be spending up front so you can make an informed choice.

www.fmcs.coop

• Burglar Alarm • Access Control • Power Failure • Fire Alarm • Frozen Pipes

Protecting What Means Most To You

Septic Pumping • Compliance Inspection • Demo & Site Clean-up • Pumping & Maintenance • Excavating & Gravel

P&L Excavating

• Install & Design • Licensed & Insured

Kyle: 507-383-3385 Forrie: 507-319-6664

MN License #3133

FLOOR TECH, inc.

Your Source for All Your Flooring Needs!

Lawn & Garden Appliances Televisions Tools 2722 Bridge Ave., Albert Lea

377-2500

Hours: M-F 9-7, Sat. 9-6, Sun. Noon-5

CARPET | VINYL LAMINATE | HARDWOOD Call Us Now for a Consultation at One of Our 2 Convenient Locations

2201 E. Main St., Albert Lea 507-552-1637

322 E. Main St., Blooming Prairie 507-583-2276

RESIDENTIAL SERVICES: Kitchen & Bath Design & Installation, Dishwasher Install, Ice Maker Hook-up, Leak Detection & Repair, Water Softner Repair & Replacement, Sump Pumps, Gas Dryer Hook-Up, Water Heater Repair & Replacement, Outside Hose Bibs, Repair/Rebuild/Installation Of All Residential Faucets, Washing Machine Hook-Up, Complete Sewer & Drain Cleaning, Toilet Repair & Install, Tub & Surround Install, Sewage Ejectors, Boiler Servicing & Repair, Water Service Replacement, Garbage Disposal Replacement, Radiant Heat Systems/ Snow Melt, Gas Line Repair/Install/Testing, Home Water Filters, R/O Drinking Water Systems, Gas Stove/Range Hook-Up, Whole House Piping Inspections

During the entire month of October, we will be donating 10% of our service call profits to cancer research. Call us today!

507-320-8774 Residential & commercial PLUMBING Serving All of Southern Minnesota FREE ESTIMATES

This fall is a great time to get those projects complete because many area contractors have less lead-time during this time of year. Not only is the scheduling time shorter, if your contractor is experiencing a slowdown, he or she will have more time to devote to your project.

Some of the projects homeowners typically want to complete before winter sets in include: Kitchen & bath remodeling—Since the

507-373-6421 • Temperature Alert • Carbon Monoxide • Flooded Basement • Camera System • Water Sensor

Halloween is approaching, which means the unofficial beginning of the winter holiday season. Before goblins come calling and the wintry winds hit, now is the time to deal with any outstanding household maintenance projects.

FURNACE –

SALE – The

YORK

Affinity...

BTU’s modulate to meet the needs of your home!

98% Efficient!

kids are back in school, a major remodel at this time of the year is less disruptive to the family. A one-room project can easily be finished before the holidays arrive.

Roof repair/replacement—Be proactive and prevent emergency—and expensive—repairs. Find out about common trouble spots and ask your contractor how you can locate a leak from inside.

Install a fireplace—Many homeowners dreaming of chestnuts roasting on an open fire will make that dream a reality this season. Ask your contractor about all the options available in fireplaces.

Have interior rooms painted—Painting instantly freshens up a room and can even change its look and feel. It’s best to

Fall is here!

see us for your fall home improvement projects

Home

start interior paint jobs while it’s still warm enough to leave windows open.

Replace carpets—If you’ve ever smelled carpet glue you’d agree that a replacement is also a great project to complete while it’s still warm enough to leave windows open.

Install indoor & outdoor lighting—Indoor lighting adds an aspect of style to a home, and outdoors it can add an element of safety by lighting up a dark walkway or entry door.

Insulate the attic—Insualting the attic is an excellent way to keep a home’s heating and cooling where it is meant to be—inside the home.

Replace windows—Poor quality or older windows are often a leading cause of high heating and cooling bills, so replacing them is another way to keep a home’s heating and cooling inside.

Mount closet/garage organization systems—A great idea for the homeowner who wants to get the home organized before the holiday hoopla sets in.

Replace gutters—Leaking gutters cause interior structural damage and the constant moisture promotes mold and mildew growth, so gutter replacement can save a homeowner from costly repairs in the future.

Root River Hardwoods, Inc.

www.rootriverhardwoods.com

Come Visit Our Showroom

Improvement

Loan

Competitive Rates Local Service Home Equity Home Loans & Much More

Want to cut your utility bill?

Julie Claussen Mortgage Lender VP

Jessica Waters Consumer Lender

Pat Gavle

Consumer Lender

Call us for a free estimate.

373-1301 serving the area since 1949!

437 Bridge Ave • Albert Lea 507- 373-1481

201 Main Street • Emmons 507-297-5461

www.securitybankmn.com

1300 Energy Drive • Preston, MN 55965 1.507.765.2284 • preston@rootriverhardwoods.com ____________________________________ 404 Airport Road • Albert Lea, MN 56007 1.507.377.8781 • albertlea@rootriverhardwoods.com

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, September 18, 2012/Page 6

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, September 18, 2012/Page 3

Tips For Weatherization To Save On Winter Utilities Did you know that about half of the 130 million existing homes in the U.S. were built before 1973?

Older homes that haven’t been updated in the last few decades could be huge energy wasters that needlessly increase a home’s power usage and expenses. For example, the U.S. Department of Energy says the average family spends about $1,900 per year on home utility bills.

Home owners can do some quick, inexpensive fixes to make their homes more efficient and reduce

energy bills, such as:

improve energy savings:

Apply weather-stripping around windows and doors;

Conduct an energy audit to find leaks or other efficiency problems;

Change air filters;

Add insulation in the attic;

Place draft dodgers inside exterior doors; and

Inspect and insulate ducts;

Install programmable thermostats to cut down on energy usage.

Hire a professional contractor for these additional weatherization improvements, which are more expensive but may greatly

We Are Not Comfortable Until You Are!

/PNO ,MÄJPLUJ`

$

Starting at

1,950

00

Window Replacement Tips For A Greener, More Energy Efficient Home

These few weatherization tips will have you resting comfy and cozy in your house this winter--not to mention enjoying the savings on your utility bills!

In these tough economic times, we know that a major home improvement project must be considered very carefully. But the truth is that older windows can lose their efficiency, causing heating and cooling bills to soar. Vinyl windows that are Energy Star compliant qualify homeowners for tax rebates and

significantly reduce heating and cooling costs.

The following tips will help you make your home greener by slashing energy costs, while improving the value of your home: Tip #1 – Choose energy efficient windows.

Check the roof and make sure ventilation is working properly; Replace windows and doors with EnergyStar rated products; and Upgrade to a more energy efficient furnace or boiler.

Troy Thompson LUTCF Life insurance underwritten by AAA Life Insurance Company, Livonia, ML. AAA Life is licensed in all states except New York. ALMI-18424-29-XX

The TOTAL Package at One Stop

1330 W. Main, Albert Lea • 507-377-2852 Toll Free 877-974-9597 • Fax: 507-377-3301 troythompsonagency@gmail.com

!

Overhead Operator Available with SmartPhone Technology

Locks

– We Also Offer – *After Carrier and Jim & Dude’s incentives, utility company rebate, and the federal tax credit. for 9 years!

Service Available 24/7 Fall Furnace Precision Tune-Up

79

$

724 West Clark Albert Lea, MN 56007

507-373-6161

www.jimanddudes.com

00

Plus Parts (if necessary)

Includes FREE

1” Pleated Furnace Filter Within 5 mile radius. Expires 10/30/12.

Call 507-373-6161 today for your FREE in-home estimate!

Custom Glass Electric Strike Installation Door & Frame Installation And More!

Call Total Glass & Lock, you will be TOTALLY Glad You Did!

• Commercial & Residential Garage & Entry Doors • Custom Shower Enclosures • Window/Screen Repair & Replacement • Complete Residential & Commercial Lock Service • Store Fronts • Fiberglass Doors (resist rust) • Auto Glass Repair and Replacement • Auto Lock Work & Lockout Service

Windows & Glass

Residential • Commercial • Industrial

Certified Experts perform all specialty work to ensure each job is done properly

Total Glass-Lock, Inc. 311 W. Main • Albert Lea, MN • 507-373-1000

Tip #2 – Know what tax credits and rebates are available.

The Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 brings back the tax credits and deductions for energy improvements. All Energy Star qualified windows that are installed in the taxpayer’s primary resident are eligible to receive a

Monitor Your Garage Door From ANYWHERE!

NEW

Custom Shower Doors Mirrors Table Tops

New Energy Star qualified windows can help reduce your energy bill up to 15 percent. Estimated savings vary from region to region depending on current heating and cooling costs and are generally greatest where there are cold winters, hot summers, or both. Visit the Energy Efficient Window Collaborative at efficientwindows.org to compare actual energy costs by product.

www.southernlockandglass.com

717 Marshall St. • Albert Lea • 507-373-9446

Visit Us On Facebook at facebook.com/southernlock 24 HOUR EMERGENCY LOCK & GLASS SERVICE 507-402-1618

Landmark CONCRETE

Call Dan 507-383-3010 •Septic System Design and Installation •Excavating Lic: #L3452

tax credit. Visit energystar.gov/taxcredits for more information. Many local utilities also provide financial incentives for purchasing Energy Star qualified windows and doors. Ask your local power company about free inspections and information about rebates.

Tip #3 – Select windows that are maintenance-free.

Love the warmth and beauty of wood but don’t want the hassles? Consider vinyl replacement windows which offer wood-like trim detail and come standard with double strength, high-performance Low-E, argon gas filled insulated glass.

Tip # 4 – Select replacement windows that don’t look like replacement windows.= No one wants to sacrifice the beauty of their home when replacing their windows. Most folks prefer to buy a replacement window that provides superior energy performance but doesn’t look like a replacement window. This is an area where homeowners should carefully weigh the choices. Features such as detailed trim, low profile hardware and simulated divided lites are a few that can make all the difference.

Tip # 5 – Do your homework.

Always have your replacement windows and doors installed by trained professionals according to manufacturer instructions. Otherwise, your warranty may be void. When hiring a contractor, interview candidates and ask for references.

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, September 18, 2012/Page 2

Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, September 18, 2012/Page 7

Know what's on the Inside First Specialists in the industry suggest that any homeowner planning to renovate should not be too hasty in applying the 'cosmetics' of a renovation without investigating the home's insides first.

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Bringing in an energy rater, inspec-

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Replacing traditional insulation with a more energy efficient modern alternative like spray foam insulation can help homeowners address potential problems, such as air leakage and poor insulation.

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basement. * Be wary when painting basement walls. Painting the basement walls will be high on your priority list, but you can't just use ordinary house paint down there. When painting the walls, use a waterproofing paint, which is both decorative and waterproof and capable of stopping water from entering the pores of the wall's masonry, preventing water damage as a result. * Take your measurements. Larger

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items, such as pool tables and refrigerators, can likely fit into the basement. But homeowners who have used their basement largely for storage should take some measurements before beginning their basement project or buying any big-ticket items. * Brighten things up. Though it might be best to have a darker or less flashy basement if the goal is to create a home theater experience, homeowners opting for a different kind of basement should look to

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Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, September 18, 2012/Page 8

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Supplement to The Freeborn Co. Shopper September 2012

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