2014 Spring Home Improvement

Spring

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Here comes the sun Spring planting season right around the corner

Do it yourself Judd Lumber provides project ideas for amateurs

Built to last Make the most of your older home

Supplement to Leader Publications • 2014

Page 2

Spring Home Improvement • March 30, 2014

Here comes the sun Spring planting season closer than it seems

By AMBROSIA NELDON ambrosia.neldon@leaderpub.com As the snow finally begins to melt after a seemingly never-ending winter, gardeners and novices alike are itching to get outside.

Despite the inconsistency in temperatures, garden experts agree that now is the time to begin preparing yards for warmer weather.

Although southwest Michigan isn’t completely out of the woods as far as more snow accumulation is concerned, Shelton’s Garden Center supervisor Tyler Duncan said now is a good time to get outside to start many projects in the yard.

“Right now is the perfect time to go out and start throwing down grass seed. If you see patches, throw the grass seed on it,” Duncan said. “But the first thing you need to do is get all of the leaves and sticks raked up. You can never rake the grass enough.”

Duncan said a common mistake made by inexperienced gardeners has to do with when and when not to prune plants.

“If you have any questions on trees and shrubs, you really should do research before you start pruning things,” he said. “There are lots of plants that you will ruin if you prune them at the wrong time.”

Duncan said there are several common Area greenhouses are beginning to acquire nursery stock as spring weather approaches.

Leader photo/AMBROSIA NELDON

SAVE ON A VARIETY OF LAWN AND GARDEN SUPPLIES!

49

99

SAVE 37%

reg. 79.99

SAVE 46%

7

99

Dumping Garden Cart L 159 059 1 While supplies last.

2

99 Sale

Cu.-Ft. Garden Soil L 145 443 B60

Your choice reg. 14.99

Bow Rake, Round-Point Shovel or Square-Point Shovel L 161 343, 374, 348 B6 While supplies last.

While supplies last.

Your choice SAVE 41%-47%

9

99

Qt. Concentrated Weed & Grass Killer L 171 822 B12 2-Gal. Tank Sprayer L 131 385 1 While supplies last.

9

99

Save 44%

reg. 17.99

6-Lb. Grub Control L 171 817 1 While supplies last.

Open at 8:30 am to 8:00 pm Sunday til 5:00 pm 56216 M-51 Dowagiac, MI Phone: 782-3426

FREE Shipping to our store on your TrueValue.com orders.

plants that will not bloom in the summer if trimmed in the spring.

“Some flowers, like hydrangeas, bloom on old wood, so if you trim them now, you won’t get new growth and your flowers won’t bloom this year,” he said. “Other plants like forsythia or lilacs, those are the first bloomers, and they grow on last year’s new growth, which would be this year’s old growth.”

Some plants that are safe to trim or shape in the spring are evergreens and boxwoods, neither of which bloom.

In just a few weeks, bulbs planted in the fall should begin to pop up if they made it through the frost.

“It’s important that once everything starts popping up that you try to water as early in the morning as possible. Most people are afraid of frost, but what really hurts plants is when the sun burns them. If you water early enough, you’ll have less risk of that problem,” Duncan said.

Duncan said it is hard to anticipate what type of summer gardeners can expect this year.

“It’s really hard to tell. Some people will tell you that because we had a rough winter, we’ll have a rough summer. Others will tell you that a rough winter means a great summer. You kind of just have to wait it out and see,” he said.

Regardless of the possible challenges that the fickle weather may present, Duncan said he still encourages people to try gardening themselves before hiring a professional landscaper.

“It’s better to do it yourself. It’s fun, and it’s a rewarding activity. It’s great that you can see results from your hard work,” he said.

“It’s a learn-as-you-go kind of experience.

You’ll never figure it all out the first year you do it.”

Spring Home Improvement • March 30, 2014

Page 3

Leader photos/AMBROSIA NELDON

Page 4

Spring Home Improvement • March 30, 2014

With a little help from friends

Dowagiac’s Judd Lumber provides suggestions, supplies for do-it-yourself projects

By TED YOAKUM ted.yoakum @leaderpub.com Spring is a season of renewal, a time of rebirth and new possibilities.

With plants springing back to life as the snow melts into the ground and the songbirds returning from their southern migration back to their nests, many people use the time to ponder new opportunities for their lives and to take stock of the things they already have.

Many also find it a great time to pull out the power tools, grab a couple cans of paint and a haul a truckload full of wood back their home.

Home do-it-yourself projects have become as synonymous with spring as rainy weather. Whether it’s building something simple like a new mailbox or completely replacing a roof, amateur craftsmen around the area will be looking to spruce up

Sumbitted photo

Judd Lumber displays their how-to guide for building a simple birdhouse inside their store. It’s the first of several DIY projects the lumber store will provide throughout the year.

their humble abode as the weather turns.

However, sometimes

one’s inner-carpenter needs a little inspiration, especially when he or she

has spent some extra time in dormancy this winter.

Thankfully, the home-

improvement specialists at Dowagiac’s Judd Lumber might be able to help.

The store has recently begun creating its own DIY projects, providing instructions and a list of materials to customers.

The business introduced the first of these plans earlier in March for a small birdhouse.

“We put together what the final project looks like and [customers] can go and buy the materials needed to build it,” said Manager Becky McGrew.

“They can put their own spin on the projects as well.”

The store started putting together these instruction packs not only to help inspire customers, but to also generate content for the Judd Lumber Facebook page, McGrew said.

“We started getting going with Facebook last year,” McGrew said.

“We’ve been coming up with new ideas to get more people involved with the page.”

The store has a number

D.B.A. Service Oil Company J&H Oil is Your

Choose The Leader In: • Fuel Oil Delivery for Home • Agriculture & Commercial Fuels • Service Station & Convenience Store Resalers • Pacific Pride 24 Hour Commercial Fuel Locations in Cassopolis and Byron Center

DEF Solution

for Diesel Engines as Required on 2010 or Newer Vehicles Availible in 2.5 GAL, 55 GAL, and Totes

www.jhoil.com An American Company Serving America

Contract / Fixed Price Options

• Volume Discounts • Motor oils & hydraulics in bulk & packaged quantities • Amoco Premier Diesel Fuel • Hoses & Filters in stock

QUALITY PETROLEUM DISTRIBUTORS Quality Petroleum Distributors

604 Water Street, Cassopolis, MI 49031

(269) 445-2441 (800) 424-3885

Page 5

Spring Home Improvement • March 30, 2014

of other future DIY project suggestions in mind, including larger projects like yard benches or picnic table kits, McGrew said.

These sample crafts are just one of several ways the lumber store provides assistance for personal home-improvement endeavors. In addition to their array of lumber, paint and hardware available for sale, the store also has a rental center for customers to borrow equipment for larger jobs.

Judd Lumber has been a fixture for Dowagiac woodworkers for more than 150 years. Opened in 1859, the store is the largest lumberyard in Michigan. Owned by Dick Judd, the company currently employs 17 people, all of whom are ready to assist customers with questions when necessary, McGrew said.

“We’re more than willing to help out,” she said.

McGrew, who has worked at the store for 13 years before becoming store manager last year, is no stranger to DIY projects herself, remodeling two homes with her family over the years.

Judd Lumber in Dowagiac offers a variety of services for customer’s home projects, including paint mixing and equipment rentals.

Leader photo/TED YOAKUM

START SAVING ENERGY & MONEY WITH REBATES THROUGH $400 REBATE

Bryant 987M

95% EFFICIENT NATURAL GAS FURNACE ECM BLOWERMOTOR

$100 REBATE

Control Your Thermostat with your Smart Phone!

Honeywell WiFi Thermostat

SET - BACK THERMOSTAT

$20

REBATE

AIR - SOURCE HEAT PUMP

$200 REBATE

*Select Models Bryant 215B or Above

Rebates As Easy As 1 - 2 - 3!

1. Determine Eligibility 2. Install Program Defined Measures 3. Complete & Submit Rebate Application

269-683-8549 CALL TODAY Additional Bryant Rebates Available up to $1,200

1445 S. 3rd St. • Niles, MI • www.RobertsService.com

Page 6

Spring Home Improvement • March 30, 2014

Building a fireplace... without the fire

By CRICKET NELSON cricket.nelson@leaderpub.com

Anyone wo has ever house-hunted knows exactly how exciting — and scary — it can be. But even your dream home may need a little TLC. One of the most appealing things about our new house is the character.

Although new to us, our house was built in 1893 and we are fortunate enough to be only the fourth owners. Through the years, previous owners have made many updates and done renovations while still maintaining the charm.

For as long as I can remember, I have always wanted a fireplace in my dream home.

I honestly cannot explain where the desire stemmed from given the fact that I have never lived in a home with one, but it is an amenity that I wanted to have. The house we recently purchased, the one we consider our dream home, does not have a fireplace and while house hunting the lack of a fireplace was never a deal breaker. But, because we love the prospect of having a fireplace, we decided to build one ourselves.

Adding a fireplace to a house is a costly and what I imagine a stressful process, so we got creative and decided to built a faux fireplace. That way we get to have the charm and character of a fireplace without the expense and mess.

Once we decided to create the faux fireplace we took very seriously choosing

Cricket Nelson is a graphic designer at Leader Publications.

Follow the renovations of her new house on her blog, homesweetnelson.blogspot.com

wood and stain that would make the fireplace appear authentic. The goal was to create a piece that would look as though it was built with the home in 1893. We searched countless websites for images on which to base our design.

Our house is considered traditional construction, but it has accents similar to the craftsman and bungalow styles. We wanted it to fit the theme.

The first step we took once we found images of inspiration was to go to our local home improvement store and start bringing our vision to life. We spread wood across the aisleway, sorted though trim pieces and played with different rosettes until we came to our final decision.

The wood we originally wanted to use for creating the faux fireplace was oak, but because the trim in the living room is pine, we decided we need to use pine to ensure the authenticity. We were lucky that the previous owners left behind stain that they used while renovating the kitchen that was a near perfect match to what we needed for the fireplace.

Once we had our wood, stain and our vision, we were ready to start building.

Here’s how we did it:

1 2 3 4

In this photo, we used the aisles of the home improvement store to lay out various materials we gathered including wood, trim, embellishments, etc. to build a visual aid.

We used 1” x 6” pine boards to create pillars for the base of the fireplace.

For the top of the fireplace we purchased a pine stair tread.

Once we had the top stapled onto the pillars, we added a piece of wood in the center for the middle of the fireplace.

NASDAQ:SHOSLOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATEDIMPORTANT SPECIAL FINANCING/DEFERRED INTEREST DETAILS (when offered): Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the purchase balance is not paid in full within the promotional period or if you make a late payment. Minimum payments required. With credit approval, for qualifying purchases made on a Sears card (Sears Commercial One® accounts excluded) Sears Home Improvement AccountSM valid on installed sales only. Offer is only valid for consumer accounts in good standing; is subject to change without notice; see store for details. May not be combined with any other promotional offer. Sears cards: As of 1/6/2014, APR for purchases: VARIABLE 7.24%-27.24% or NON-VARIABLE 14.00%-29.99%. MINIMUM INTEREST CHARGE: UP TO $2. See card agreement for details, including the APRs and fees applicable to you. Sears cards issued by Citibank, N.A. APPLIANCE OFFER: (1) Advertised savings are valid in-store only and range from 5%-25%. (1,2,15) Bosch®, Whirlpool®, KitchenAid®, Maytag ®, Amana®, LG®, GE® and Samsung® appliances limited to 10% off. Offers exclude Hot Buys, Super Hot Buys, Special Purchases, Jenn-Air®, Dacor, GE Profile™, GE Café™, air conditioners, dehumidifiers, closeouts and Everyday Great Price items. Offers good thru 4/3/14. (2) Cannot be combined with other Sears card discounts. Excludes Sears Commercial One® accounts and Outlet Stores. Sears Home Improvement AccountSM applies on installed merchandise only. LAWN & GARDEN OFFER: (10) 5% offer applies to lawn & garden, grill and patio purchases over $299 and is calculated on purchase price less all coupons, discounts and reward certificates, not including tax, installation or delivery. Offer not valid with Sears Commercial One® accounts and Sears Home Improvement AccountSM. Cannot be combined with other Sears card discounts. Excludes Everyday Great Price items and generators. Offer good thru 4/3/14. (11) Offer applies to lawn & garden purchases over $299 after discounts and coupons when you use a qualifying Sears card. See above for Important Special Financing/Deferred Interest Details. Excludes Outlet Stores. Offer good thru 4/3/14.

Your Hometown SEARS PREMIER STORE

Sears of Dowagiac 4-30-14 3/31/14

John Fox (owner) 56153 M51 South • 269-782-1953

5

Next, we attached the floral rosette — wood embellishments — to the pillars.

6

Page 7

Spring Home Improvement • March 30, 2014

After attaching the rosettes we added a piece of decorative trim between the middle piece and the top.

9

The final step in the building process was to add our decorative ornament centerpieces.

7

At the bottom, we cut 1”x 4” pieces of pine to create a trim piece for a finished look.

Finally, we applied two coats of a red oak color stain and two coats of clear gloss.

Natural Gas works for Michigan Clean Burning & Efficient Energy

To report a gas leak call: 1.888.GAS.1.GAS Customer Service: 1.800.624.2019

www.semcoenergygas.com

Kommander Zero Turn ...

Starting at $4,529

22-25hp Kohler & Briggs Engines 48" & 54" Fabricated Mower Decks Hands Free Deck Lift

BX Series ... Starting at $9,750 18-26hp Kubota Diesel Engines 4wd Hydrostat Transmissions Cat 1 Three Point Hitch

RTV's ... Starting at $8,225 16-25hp Gas & Diesel Engines 4WD CVT & Hydrostat Transmissions Hydraulic Dump on Select Models

Low Rate Financing Available

L Series ... Starting at $11,830 32-60hp Kubota Diesel Engines 2wd or 4wd Gear Drive or Hydrostat Transmissions Factory Cabs Aval.

NEW Z700 Series Commercial Z-Turn ... Starting at $7,799 23-25hp Kohler Comand Engines 48-60" Fabricated Commerecial Decks Foldable ROPS rating O eb

NILES • 269-683-7272 • 1218 S. 11th Street (across from McDonald’s) BARODA • 269-422-1753 • 1/4 mile N. of Baroda on Stevensville/Baroda Rd.

r ve

48

Ce l

8

We then added more trim pieces on the front of the pillars.

Page 8

Spring Home Improvement • March 30, 2014

Six hot home design trends for spring 2014 SUBMITTED (BPT) — Does the change of seasons have you itching to refresh a tired, lackluster room? Or maybe you’re looking for some small ways to make a big impact on your home’s style? Whatever the case, here are some of this season’s most buzzed-about trends and how you can incorporate them into your next project.

• Wood is the new neutral. This season’s strong trend toward wood textures pairs the warmth, richness and texture of real wood with limitless design flexibility.

Think wood-textured textiles, tree-printed wallpapers and embossed soaps that look like wood. Installing engineered wood ceilings and wainscoting can bring the unique look of reclaimed wood into any environment — an easy do-it-yourself project with striking results.

• Ode to the elements. Mother Nature is inspiring design in a big way this year and homeowners are finding unique ways to incorporate rocks, minerals and other natural elements into their home’s design.

Try replacing a common-place item like an alarm clock with one encased within a multi-colored agate. Bring this look to the kitchen with a stainless steel backsplash, or swap out run-of-the-mill hardware with mineral-inspired drawer pulls and knobs.• Shore thing. Homeowners, inspired by the calm, care-free attitude of coastal living are all about bringing the beach inside this season. Beach-inspired design

elements are popping up throughout the home. Weathered and white-washed wood ceilings are a subtle but stunning on-trend addition - especially when finished with interior accents like decorative shells, drift wood furniture and marine-themed prints.

• Contrast in texture. Step aside Pantone, texture is spring’s hottest new color. Homeowners are putting down their paintbrushes and adding interest with texture through high-gloss finishes, metallics, sequins and mirrors. A textured tile wall brings visual and tactile interest, especially when paired with contrasting high-gloss lacquer or low-gloss matte accessories.

• Visual punch. Reawaken the senses this spring by incorporating a striking visual element to the home. Multi-dimensional surface treatments in pearl, metallic and gold/silver combinations add panache as a coating used for hardwood, or can be applied to wallpaper, furniture or decorative accessories. And don’t forget to look up - coffered ceilings bring a striking je ne sais quoi to any room.

• Manipulated metals. The versatility of manipulated metal makes it a great addition to any style home — from handcrafted artisan to contemporary high gloss.

Copper, pewter and nickel are getting in on the action and can be styled in a variety of ways, including hammered metal sink basins, tin-look ceiling tiles, antiqued copper light fixtures and brushed stainless steel cabinet hardware.

BPT photo

Wood textures bring warmth to a home of any style.

OPEN HOUSE

SATURDAY, MAY 3rd 8-3!

SPRINGGetCLEANUP SALE everything you need to keep your lawn looking great this season!

Save on All Push Mower & Tractor Purchases Over $200

FREE Y DELIVElawRn on new rs mowe tors and trac

Stihl

• MS 170 • Chainsaw 16"

now $179.95

100 OFF Cub Cadet Cub Cadet • LTX1042KW LTX1046KW now $1,699.99 now $1,899.99 $

Stihl Trimmer • FS38

now $129.95

Stihl

• BG 55 Leaf Blower

now $149.95

CASS OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT 62101 M-62 SOUTH, CASSOPOLIS, MI (269) 445-2231

Spring

Page 9

Spring Home Improvement • March 30, 2014

HOME IMPROVEMENT Thinking Ahead

Spring Cleaning

Now is time to prepare your roof for winter

Spruce up your deck for warmer weather

o

SPRING TIME IS FINALLY HERE

FINANCING AVAILABLE!

Air Conditioning & Furnace

RZT Zero Turn

Starting at $2,499.99

• 42”-54” Heavy Duty Stamped & Fabricated Mower Decks • Shaft Drive Transmission • Electric Lift and Power Steering Available

Starting at

Cub Cadet CC30 420cc Cub Cadet Engine • 30” Mower Deck • 6 Speed Transmission

Starting at

$1,199.99

$3,999.99

LTX1000 Series 18-27hp Kohler & Kaw Engines

• 42”-54” Heavy Duty Mower Desks • Hydrostatic & CVT Transmissions • Power Steering Available • $100 off Select Models*

Starting at Cub Cadet Tillers 208cc Cub Cadet Engines

Cub Cadet Walk Mowers 159-420cc Cub Cadet Engines

Starting at

Starting at

• 21” - 33” Cut • Push & Self Propelled • Electric Start Available

$249.99

rating O eb

48

NILES • 269-683-7272 • 1218 S. 11th Street (across from McDonald’s) BARODA • 269-422-1753 • 1/4 mile N. of Baroda on Stevensville/Baroda Rd.

r ve

$599.99

* KW units until 6/15/14

Ce l

• Counter Rotating or Dual Direction tines • Electric Start Available

$1,499.99

Limited Time Offer. Call for your appointment today. Good on all furnace brands. Experienced Factory-trained Technicians

Special

22-24hp Kohler & Kaw Engines 42”-54” Heavy Duty Mower Decks Steering Wheel or Lap Bar Controls Dual Hydrostatic Transmissions

2000 Series 20.5-22.5hp Kohler Command Engines

SALE!!!

Clip & Save

Call Now to Schedule a Furnace Clean & Safety Check and Save!

79

$

Within limite service area d

• Install gauge and check operating pressure • Check voltage and amperage on all motors with meter • Check air temperature drop across evaporator • Check evaporator superheat • Lubricate all moving parts • Check belt and adjust tension • Check filters • Check all wiring and connections • Check and adjust thermostat • Check that condensation drain opens

Dowagiac H eating & Air Conditioning

A/C Check-Ups Begin In April.

EXPERIENCED, FACTORY TRAINED TECHNICIANS FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED • EMERGENCY SERVICE

55070 M-51 North • Dowagiac, MI

269-782-3810

FInanCInG avaILabLE

Page 10

Spring Home Improvement • March 30, 2014

Common trouble spots in older homes

Decatur business specializes in repairing antiquated houses

By JILL McCAUGHAN jill.mccaughan@leaderpub.com

Whether they are simple Folk Victorians, stately Queen Annes, or quaint bungalows, the older homes lining the streets of many Michigan towns are largely responsible for the charm that those towns are known for.

While living in these older homes is a pleasure that many of their owners would not trade, such homes require particular maintenance. With proper care, those homes will continue to stand for decades to come.

Based on more than 20 years of experience in home-building, as well as remodeling and restoring existing homes, Paul Caron, owner of Caron Custom Homes and Cabinetry in Decatur, recommends that prospective buyers carefully examine an older home from top to bottom.

Those who already own an older home would also do well to heed his advice.

“I have an older home in Decatur. It’s about 120 years old, and the first thing we did was to make sure that the roof was intact and structurally sound,” Caron said. “In fact, we replaced the roof.”

Caron explained that many older homes were built with cedar shake roofs,

Submitted photos

Caron Custom Homes, of Decatur, specializes in remodeling older homes like the one seen above.

which required air to circulate above and below them in order for them to dry out. With newer materials, having a gap underneath the shingles can cause problems. The solution is a total tear-off before reroofing.

“Oftentimes, you’ll find the original cedar shakes underneath the newer roofing. In that instance, the roof will need to be re-decked, depending on the original roof boards,” Caron said. “If you don’t do a total tear-off, it will diminish your

shingle life by 50 percent.”

Another area in older homes that requires attention is the foundation.

“Depending on the age of the home, the foundation can be made of cinderblock, brick, or what we had — stone,” Caron

Mitchell Murals

Robert Mitchell 269-683-7766

MR. MAINTENANCE “No job too big or too small” STEVE DEMING - Owner

• New Construction • Remodeling • Concrete • Decks • Siding • Windows • Roofing • Sun Porch • Basement

Licensed and Insured 269.591.1403

(Answering Service 269.683.3516) Spas • Pools • Equipment • A Full Service Company

Specializing in summer fun since 1990 • Pool & Spa Chemicals • Holland & Big Green Egg Grills • Expert Service Technicians 160 N paw paw st. coloma , mi

• Replacement pool liners, safety covers & spa covers • Motor and pump repair

1.800.779.0909

620 Phillips St. South Haven MI

www.spaandpoolservices.com

www.MitchellMurals.com

Painting whatever you like: Family Crest • Sports Teams • Cartoon Characters • The Last Supper Artist for over 40 years, painted my first mural in 1974 and just finished my latest. Let me do one for you, too!

Spring Home Improvement • March 30, 2014

Page 11

said. “The mortar that was used in the past didn’t bond as well and didn’t have the chemical compounds that we use today. Because of that, you’ll find that mortar joints may have deteriorated.”

In Caron’s home, some of the foundation stones were starting to shift and come loose, so he had to chisel out the old mortar and reset the stones with new mortar.

“We re-tuckpointed the entire foundation with new mortar,” Caron said. “If you don’t do that, the foundation will continue to slowly fall apart.”

In between the roof and the foundation of an older home, a whole host of other concerns reside.

“Over the life of the home, mechanical and internal changes may have happened,” Caron said. “For example, there may be sagging floors in some locations. I recommend that you inspect the basement to see if beams or other supporting posts were moved or removed, or possibly that interior footings were not used.”

To solve that sort of problem, Caron recommends installing adjustable steel support posts on proper footings. Using those, a homeowner can safely lift the sagging floor areas and re-support the weak areas.

“You should also closely inspect any structural beams to make sure that they’re still solid,” Caron said.

“Are they decaying? If so, is it termites, powder post beetles, carpenter ants or natural decay that is causing the problem?”

Each of those causes will require a combination of different solutions, including the replacement of the decaying beams.

“It’s always best to contact a licensed contractor for any structural repairs. And, if you’re a weekend warrior, you should contact a structural engineer or an architect. It’s always better to be safe than sorry,” Caron said.

As one such licensed contractor, Caron can be contacted at caroncustomhomes@gmail.com. Caron Custom Homes can also be found on Facebook.

Submitted photos Finally, Caron noted that “With older homes, a lead TOP: Caron specializes in building and remodeling lake homes such as this one in Sister Lakes. ABOVE: One of Caron’s speassessment of old paint and an inspection for asbestos cialties is constructing custom kitchens for both new and existing homes. Caron specializes in building and remodeling should always be done.” lake homes such as this one in Sister Lakes.

Opening your Pool is a snap with...

ROBERTSON’S Sales & Service • Inground Pool Liners • Mesh Safety Covers • All Pool Equipment • We open and Close Pools • We Haul Water!

Over 37 Years Experience

Looking Forward to a great 2014 Season!

Niles, MI (269) 684-2669 Brad or Sharon

You approve the price before we start the work

Protect your biggest investment - your home Your plumbing system is crucial to your home’s value. We’ll fortify it at an affordable price.

Serving All of Michiana MI: 269-683-9490 IN: 574-232-9490 www.fiskplumbing.com

MK CONSTRUCTION

Page 12

Spring Home Improvement • March 30, 2014

Tips to spring clean your deck and patio SUBMITTED — STATEPOINT

of the air filter.

It’s the time of year when sprucing up your deck and patio becomes a top weekend priority.

Whether you use the space for entertaining or for solitude, you’ll want it clean, comfortable and safe this spring.

Take time to dust off your outdoor furniture and wipe down cushions that have been in storage all winter. Inspect flower pots, bird feeders and other outdoor décor to ensure they withstood the cooler months. Replace anything that is damaged.

Before setting furniture and décor back, give the surface below a good clean. Whether you’re dealing with cement, brick or wood, the quickest and most thorough way to deep clean and restore surfaces to a like-new condition is with a pressure washer. Knowing how to use one properly is important for a quality job and for your safety.

Buying Tips Buying a pressure washer for the first time or replacing an old one? Here are some guidelines: • Pressure washers are categorized in groups based upon frequency of use and the types of products and surfaces they are best suited for cleaning.

Selecting the right pressure washer for your needs depends on what you’re going to clean, how often you plan to do so, and how much time you want to spend. Ask yourself these questions before making a purchase.

• Look for a versatile pressure washer that can be used for a variety of tasks. Deep clean your patio and driveway in high pressure mode or clean more delicate surfaces and rinse away debris in high flow mode.

• Consider going green with a model having reduced environmental impact. If you have an older pressure washer, a newer model could offer lower emissions and better fuel efficiency.

With a deep clean, you can restore and refresh your home’s outdoor spaces and make them a friendly place to relax and have fun.

Usage Tips • Different surfaces require different cleaning techniques. Ensure you’re following the instructions for the surface you’re cleaning.

• Always read and follow the operator’s manual and all operat-

StatePoint photo

ing instructions.

• High-pressure spray can cut through skin, so never spray people or animals. Wear closed-toed shoes and goggles while pressure washing.

• Assume a solid stance and

firmly grasp the spray gun with both hands to avoid injury if the gun kicks back before squeezing the spray gun trigger.

• Never spray near power lines, service feeds, electrical meters, wiring and windows.

• Check the engine oil level each time you use a pressure washer. When changing or adding oil, don’t overfill the engine crankcase. Doing so can cause smoking, hard starting, spark plug fouling and oil saturation

LaPlace Plumbing, Inc. P.O. Box 358 Edwardsburg, MI MI: 269-663-8046 IN: 574-277-1730

Residential • Commercial • Licensed in Michigan & Indiana

“Quality Work at a Reasonable Price” Independently Owned and Operated by Galen LaPlace Building A Rock Solid Future Brick by Brick!

Let us help you turn your backyard dreams into realities!

• Quality Products • Great Customer Service • Techo’s Lifetime Transferable Warranty Michiana Brick Home Center 52307 Fir Rd., Granger Around the corner from Ginger Valley (574) 237-0029

Page 13

Spring Home Improvement • March 30, 2014

8x8 up to 14x36

slAbAugh's storAge bArns

(260) 768-7989 Compare Our Quality & Prices!

Assembled & pAinted!

leAve A messAge

8x8 . . . . . . . $995 8x12 . . . . . $1185 10x12 . . . . $1495 10x16 . . . . $1695 12x16 . . . . $2075 12x20 . . . . $2390

Leader Publications 217 N. 4th Street Niles, MI 49120 269-683-2101

LeaderPub.com

Jon’s Septic and Excavating “Where a straight flush beats a full house!”

Five simple tricks to transform your deck SUBMITTED (BPT) — It’s easy to dream of perfectly pristine outdoor spaces when looking at the decks in magazines and online, but too often what we want and what we have don’t align.

If your deck suffers from weathered wood, loose railings or dated balusters, you’re not alone. The good news is there are surprisingly simple ways to give your deck a facelift and transform it into the outdoor oasis you want in as little as one weekend.

Consider these five ways you can update your deck and grow your real estate value: 1. Add or update post caps One of the easiest ways to add a dash of design and even some color and light to your deck is to update your post caps.

If you currently have post caps, most can be removed by gently tapping them with a mallet. Then it’s an easy DIY project to add new post caps simply by using exterior construction adhesive.

These decorative caps come in a variety of styles, including basic wood that can be stained to perfectly coordinate with your existing color scheme. If you want to add a bit more pizzazz to your outdoor space, give your deck the Deckorators touch with classic copper post caps or solar powered caps that illuminate once the sun sets.

2. Replace balusters Balusters are connected to the railing vertically and provide an important safety feature. But they also add to the visual appeal of the deck and are a main feature in your line of sight. If your wood balusters are worn, you can instantly upgrade your outdoor space with new options. Metal balusters, for example, come in a variety of designs to match any home’s style — from contemporary to traditional.

Have a stunning view from your deck?

Enjoy uninterrupted sight lines with glass balusters that simultaneously maintain a deck’s safety and visual appeal.

3. Bring back deck boards After seasons of changing weather and

lots of foot traffic, your wood deck boards may be showing wear. Protect the integrity of the wood and refresh the look of your outdoor space by cleaning deck boards and giving them a new coat of paint or stain.

Start by scrubbing or power spraying off dirt and grime, and then let wood dry thoroughly. Next, use stain or paint made specifically for decks to help protect the wood from the elements. Just as indoor paint transforms a room inside your home, new stain or paint on your deck boards will make your outdoor area look new and refreshed, making you feel like you have a whole new outdoor area.

4. Refresh railings When it comes to deck railings, there are endless options to match any style or price point. You can go with an off-theshelf product or customize one to fit your personal design aesthetic. For example, Deckorators co-extruded composite CXT railing is ultra-low maintenance and gives you the options to mix-and-match railings, posts, balusters and caps for a look that’s entirely your own. Not looking to do a full railing replacement? Sand down wood railings and apply a new coat of stain for an instant update.

5. Install lighting A great deck will serve as an extension of your home both day and night, but if you don’t have proper lighting, you’ll be heading indoors once the sun goes down.

Add visual appeal and an element of safety to your deck with easy DIY lighting options.

Lighting on your stairs adds a splash of drama and makes it easy to get around.

Balusters are an often-overlooked item that can provide a great lighting location too.

Solar Baluster Lights install around 3/4inch round balusters with nothing more than a Phillips screwdriver. Finally, Solar Accent Lights can be placed on posts to illuminate pathways and deck edges.

Expanding a home’s livable space to the outdoors is a top home improvement trend.

With these simple tips, your deck will find new life and you’ll be able to enjoy plenty of time outdoors with Mother Nature.

• Septic Cleaning • Installation • Sewer Hookups • Demolition of Original Excavating • Will Do New Installation Packages •

Call Jon: 269-641-2222 70465 Five Points Rd., Edwardsburg, MI

Page 14

Spring Home Improvement • March 30, 2014

Thinking ahead Spring is time to prepare your roof for winter

By CRAIG HAUPERT craig.haupert @leaderpub.com If the harsh weather wreaked havoc on your roof this winter, the solution might not lie where you would think.

Bill Grant, owner of Bill’s Roof Repair in Cassopolis, said the key to maintaining a healthy roof starts in the attic.

“The thing that causes the ice dams is heat coming up through the roof. It melts the snow and runs down to the overhang and turns to ice,” said Grant, who’s been in business since 1971. “So the first thing you need to do is check your insulation to see if you have enough.”

Ice dams are thick ridges of solid ice that build up

(269) 684-5004 We will take

20% OFF any spring cleaning service. Offer good thru 4-30-14

Serving our Customers since 1983

Carpet, Upholstery & Tile Cleaning

269-782-9446 Serving the following areas:

Dowagiac, Cassopolis, Niles, Edwardsburg, Berrien Springs, Granger, Mishawaka, South Bend, Buchanan, Eau Claire, Sodus, Decatur, St. Joesph, Benton Harbor, & Stevensville.

Free s ate Estim

Page 15

Spring Home Improvement • March 30, 2014

Submitted photos

along the roof edges. Oftentimes, the ice will form icicles that hang off the edge of the roof. Dams can cause a lot of damage, from tearing off gutters to loosening shingles and causing water to back up into a home.

“Shingles aren’t water tight unless the water runs in a downhill slope and keeps running,” he said. “The ice creates a dam and runs up back under the shingles and can go down through the paper.”

Warm air trapped inside an attic can also lead to ice dams.

“The heat builds up in there even if you have good insulation, so ventilation is very important also,” he said. “Ventilation comes in the form of ridge vents, turbine vents. Even if you have those it would be inadequate without an acceptable amount of incoming air to replace the air going out.”

If these solutions don’t work, Grant

ROHDY’S

Heating & Cooling

said people could have ice melt cables installed around the edges of roof or in the gutters.

Grant said now is the best time to begin implementing these solutions.

“There’s not a lot you can do in the winter time,” he said. “For people with damage, the No. 1 thing to do is call an insulation contractor and get the roof inspected for adequate insulation and ventilation.

That is always No. 1.”

For those that already have roof damage, Grant recommends calling a roofing contractor that has a lifetime warranty on repair work.

“Also make sure you do the other work because if you don’t do that, you will have to call someone again to repair it over,” he said.

To learn more about Bill’s Roof Repair, visit the website billsroofrepair.com or call the business at (269) 445-2718.

We are noW hiring!

Residential & Commercial Service & Installation Licensed • Insured 29575 M-62 West • Dowagiac, MI 49047

Phone: (269) 783-0440 Fax: (269) 782-5552

2.00 OFF

$

A/C Clean/Check Expires 6-1-14

30,000 M62 West, Dowagiac, MI

(269) 782-3404

www.lyonscareers.com

Commercial: All types of commercial asphalt work.

New install, re-surfacing, and maintenance Residential: New install, maintenance, remove & replace Municipal: Patching repairs on roads, private roads

Bailey Asphalt

1425 S 15th Street • Niles, MI 49120 • 888-860-5990 • 574-596-7126

www.BaileyAsphalt.com

Page 16

Spring Home Improvement • March 30, 2014

Tune In

BIG SCREENS = BIG SAVINGS

Is squinting at a small, fuzzy screen bringing you down? Invest in a new flat screen TV to save your eyes and your wallet! Energy Optimization rebates (up to $50!) are now available for ENERGY STAR® TVs 21” and larger. And that’s not all— your efficient TV will save you energy for years to come.

ENERGY TIP: Use the sleep timer feature to automatically turn off the TV after you fall asleep

ONLINE: michigan-energy.org PHONE: 877.296.4319

Energy Optimization programs and incentives are applicable to Michigan service locations only. Other restrictions may apply. For a complete list of participating utilities, visit michigan-energy.org.