Thank You to Our Sponsors and Our Readers
by John Wambles
PUBLISHER
The Peddler Advantage Staff is proud to bring you special sections like our Spring Home Improvement. These extra sections are designed to bring to our readers as much information and assistance as we can provide as a community paper. But we do not do it alone.
The Peddler Advantage and the Spring Home Improvement are free for you to pick up because of the sponsors in our paper. We are forever grateful to them for being a part
of our mission. This section is designed to be pulled out and saved. The ideas in it may help you with your spring time projects and the sponsors listed are all ready to be of service to you.
Local businesses employ our family members, our neighbors and our friends. Ordering online can be convenient. It is even necessary sometimes. We are suggesting that it is just as easy to call someone local as it is to order elsewhere. Let's not forget about the local business. They need all of our support.
Save this section and give them a call. If you think about it, tell them you saw their ad in the Peddler. Maybe even thank them for helping provide a free paper. The cost of print and delivery, as with everything else, has skyrocketed in the last few years. Again, we want to thank our sponsors. We, also, want to thank you, our reader. We do it all for your enjoyment, entertainment and education. Contact the Peddler at (731) 644-9595, we are ready to help you buy, sell or trade. We are in business to bring more business to your business. pl
Living In a Small Home Comes With Big Benefits
by John Wambles
Making the decision to live in a smaller home has a lot more to it than just down-sizing. It is adopting a newer and simpler way of life. If you go into it with the right tiny home or manufactured home and the right attitude you will find out that
less is more. Everyone loves the idea of doing less housework. There are fewer square feet that have to be mopped, swept and vacuumed. Less surface area that needs to be wiped down and dusted. Chores like painting and powerwashing will take less time. Electri-
cal and plumbing maintenance and repair will require less use of materials, too. Less maintenance also means less money spent on repairs. The savings do not stop there. A tiny home or smaller manufactured home uses
LIVING
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less electricity. It is easier to heat in the winter and cool in the summer. The smaller rooms require a fewer number of lights to brighten them to full capacity. Rooms will require less paint and flooring. Large amounts of furnishing will not be necessary. Taxes and insurance will be less expensive too. Living in a smaller home requires that you clean up the clutter in your life. Get rid of your extra baggage – the clothes you never wear, junk you think you will use and never do, valuables that don't really have any value. It is time to them them go. A smaller home makes it easier for you to maintain that way of living. You teach yourself to live within the space you are allotted. This could also fall back under the saving money school of thought.
Tiny homes and small pre-fab homes tend to be less expensive, especially in today's real estate market. Less expensive means less overall debt that you will have to pay back. This is money that can go toward things like higher
education and family vacations. Money that won't end up on things forgotten in a drawer or the back of a closet.
A smaller home can literally bring a family closer together. It will be easy to find your own private nook but as a whole the living area is usually more open. Good communication and cooperative living become sharpened skills in your tiny home or pre-fab unit.
Don't forget about the mobility and flexibility of a small manufactured home or tiny home. They can be placed on a permanent foundation or maintain their mobility. The sustainability of your unit may not handle moving often but it will always remain and option that a larger home does not have. Ready for the simple life? Contact Clayton Homes of Paris at (731) 642-4046 or visit their models at 2850 E. Wood Street about a pre-fab or small manufactured home. You can visit the leader in tiny homes for our area at Garland's Luxury Tiny Homes at 9060 US Hwy 79, Springville, Call them at (731) 393-4288. Check out their ads in this special Home Improvement section.
Spring Is a Great Time to Show the Car a Little TLC
by John Wambles
After being cooped up all winter, everyone is ready to get out and hit the road this time of year. Making sure that your car is in tip top shape is a necessity before any road trips or Spring Break vacations. Before you warning light comes on the dashboard take care of these maintenance tasks.
Winter's ice and snow can be rough on your wiper blades. Nothing is more aggravating than a wiper that does not clear the windshield properly. The streaks that are left behind may also obstruct your view and cause an accident. Before the April showers bring the May flowers replace your wiper blades.
Tires require a lot of attention. Now is as good of a time as any to inspect your tires. Make sure there is plenty of tread and there are no visible defects. If you see blisters, steel or smooth surfaces it is time for a new set. Regularly rotating your tires keeps them from wearing out so quickly. Make your appointment today. If you notice unusual wear on your tires, have the
alignment checked. Tires can rub spots on themselves if they are not aligned properly. Good shocks also assist keeping tires in good shape. That squealing sound is not only irritating but could also be dangerous. Check your brakes immediately. Brake pads wear out and become smooth. They are actually designed to create that loud squealing sound to alert you to check them. Even lifetime brake pads need checking. Also, check the brakes if you notice a smell of something running hot or lots of black color on your hubcaps. Nothing stops a car in its tracks faster than a belt that comes loose or breaks. The cold weather can make them brittle. You will also get way better gas mileage and more efficiency out of your motor if you change out or clean your filter. Take the time this spring to check belts and filters and replace as needed.
Your car has a lot of working parts that need to run smoothly. Fluids in your automobile keep everything running as it should. Here is a checklist
of fluids you may want to change or top off. Every three thousand miles change the engine oil. Check to make sure you are not leaking oil in between changes, too. This can leave behind a mess and even cause you costly engine problems.. Gears not shifting like they should? Check your transmission fluid. That thermometer light means your car is running hot. It is past time to check your engine coolant. You do not want to deal with a blown gasket. When the steering wheel feels tight and doesn't want to turn, it is time to check the power steering fluid. Brakes work best when their fluid is in good condition. Many of these fluids can break down in extreme heat or cold and may even become
contaminated. Test your battery before the heat of summer and the strain from energy consumption takes the power right out of it. You don't want to be stuck in a hot parking lot with a car that won't start. Most retail parts stores and service places will do free battery testing. Just like your home needs spring cleaning, so does your car. Get rid of the winter clutter. The gloves, the caps, the scarves and extra jackets. Treat the dash and side boards with a moisturizing cleaner. Heat and cold can cause damage to the plastic. The glass needs a good cleaning – the windshield, side windows, and mirrors. At the car wash power wash the floor mats. Vacuum the floors
and the upholstery, don't forget the trunk. Salt, dirt and all kinds of grime can ruin the paint on your car. Make sure to completely clean the exterior of your car. Especially the roof and along the wheel line. Driving a clean, tidy automobile can be as refreshing as coming home to a clean house.
This might be the year you fix your car up like you've been wanting too. Think about a new color, a better music system, custom lights or a unique spoiler. Make a statement with your automobile. Personalize your vehicle to your personal style.
After a tough winter your car may need some serious TLC – a tune-up. Fluids may need to be flushed or spark plugs and ignition
cables may need to be replaced. Especially if your car is starting to hit those big numbers. A tune-up is highly suggested at 50K, 100K and 150K miles. A tune-up is a good way to prevent a lot of those expensive car repairs.
Peppers Automotive Group, located at 2420 E. Wood St., in Paris not only offers a full line of new vehicles for you to
choose from but also an Auto Maintenance and Repair Shop. Contact Peppers at (731) 642-3900 to make your appointment. Auto Trim Design is ready, willing and more than able to customize your ride. They are located at 1318 E. Wood St., or call them at (731) 6428621. Whatever you need taken care of you local service stations are read to help you.
Spring Decorating Ideas That Are Fun and Easy To Do
by John Wambles
It's that time of year when we want to start spending more time outside. But, it is also a fun time of the year to bring some of the colors and florals of the season inside. Here are some simple ideas that can make a beautiful difference in your home.
One of the easiest decorating ideas is to add bold color to any room. There are many ways you can do this that won't break the bank. Brightly colored throw pillows on the couch or a vibrant table runner can lighten up any dining room. If you want to put in a little more time and effort, how about painting an accent wall or a room's trim a soft pastel. Create patterns with your paint by making bold stripes or using stencils.
Easier to do but maybe a bit more costly is to invest in new drapes. The change can give you the feels of a new room. Maybe even switch to blinds. New bedding, like a bedspread
or throw pillows and spruce up a bedroom. A new couch or chair slip cover can make the same old furniture look new again.
Floral printed table cloths bring a breath of fresh air to any dining room. A floral shower curtain can dress up your bathroom. A colorful area rug can change the whole attitude of any hallway, foyer or room. One change can make a huge difference in any room.
Everyone always wants those beautiful plants and flowers inside. Some tricks of the decorating trade include using silk flowers and dried flowers. Beautiful arrangements liven any table or room. The more random they are the more freshness they bring with them. A bouquet in the bathroom adds another dimension to its overall design. Other ways to bring the outside in is to display prints of your favorite flowers. Create a mosaic on a hallway wall or above your bed. Dishes with flower
designs are fun on any table, inside or outside. Floral wallpaper can be used on a accent wall, to redo an entire room or maybe just line the back of book shelf or a display case.
Don't be afraid to mismatch patterns. Stripes with florals can create a unique look that is both pleasing and unforgettable. This can be done with paint, wall paper, throw pillows, slip covers and area rugs. Lighting can make a huge difference in a room. Adding extra lighting not only brightens to room but also takes the mood of the room up a notch. When the new lighting has bright colored shades or uses white to reflect light it gives a room a whole new life.
If it's a big change you are looking for, buy new furniture. Replace the winter time's dark wood colors with springs white and pastels. The change may be just what you were looking for and worth your investment.
If you are needing any decorating ideas contact the Flower Station in downtown Paris for beautiful arrangements and décor. They are located at 202 Dunlap St. Give them a call for home delivery or to send a gift at (731) 407-9525. There is no doubt you can find the furnishing you are looking for at Merison's Furniture, located at 307 Fairview St., in Paris. Give them a call at (731) 407-7772.
Spring Is the Time to Spruce Up Things Around the House
by John Wambles
It is amazing the wear and tear that the cold and moisture of winter can do to your home. When the days are longer, warmer and dryer is the best time to prep your home for the spring and summer months. It can be hard to know where to begin so here is a few ideas that may get you started.
One word everyone dreads when it comes to spring clean-up is... gutters. You need to just go ahead and make up your mind and clean those out. Put it on the
top of your list. Do it first and get it done and out of the way. Fall leaves can clog your gutters making it hard for water to run-off properly. Before too long your home will be experiencing foundation problems. The expense of dealing with that will make any time spent on your gutters more than worth it. Make sure those spouts are still pointing away from the house and are clear of debris while you are checking. The warmer weather is always welcomed. Before you know it the temps are
way more than warm. It can get hot outside quick and stuffy inside. Early spring is a good time to get your air conditioning unit serviced. Coils and condensers need to be cleaned. Filters need to be changed. Winter weather can be tough on equipment and parts may need to be replaced. Early spring is an excellent time to schedule these services. Once it heats up wait times will definitely increase and possibly the cost too. This is also a good time to check on your ceiling fans. Make sure they are all in work-
ing order and switch their direction back to blowing cool air around your room.
Winter's snow and ice can damage the wood on your deck. Make sure loose or broken boards are repaired and replaced. Railings can get loose and come apart. You don't want to grab onto a loose railing and fall. Water can get in the nooks of the concrete in your sidewalks and freeze and expand. Besides looking bad, loose concrete can cause accidents.
Sprucing up the outside of your home makes a big
difference in its overall look. Vinyl siding, concrete driveways and wood decks can look brand new again after a good power-washing. After power-washing is a good time to touch up the paint and stain the deck again if needed. Seal coating those driveways are an excellent way to improve their look and extend their usefulness.
Check the screens on your windows. Rips in the screens will allow flies and mosquitoes in. Keep the insects out by remembering to also check the screens
on doors and your porch. It is hard to enjoy sitting outside on your porch if you are constantly swatting away bugs. Something that is very important to double check and people seldom thing about is your mailbox. Winter snow and ice can loosen its foundation and damage their moving parts. The last thing you want to do is lose important documents or a check that may be coming in the mail. Make sure that numbers on the side of your mailbox are still readable. Not only will the mailman appreciate that but it could assist
emergency vehicles looking for addresses in your area.
When you start thinking about storage of your winter belongings, start thinking about what you can actually get rid of. You would be amazed how quickly you could probably fill a small on-site dumpster. Rentals can be by the day or the week and the price includes pick up and dumping. The on-site dumpster encourages the need to discard those things you no longer need.
While you are in the cleaning mood, don't forget your chimney. Burning the fireplace all winter can lead to a lot of buildup in the chimney. This buildup can itself catch on fire and cause a home disaster. Things get
busy in the fall and during the holidays and cleaning your chimney can easily be forgotten. Paris Building Supply, located at 1180 N. Poplar
St., has everything you need to start your home repairs for Spring. Call them at (731) 642-0223. Patriot Power-washing and Seal Coating is ready for your job at all times. Contact them at (731) 333-0363. Call the Chimney Dr. to take care of cleaning and maintenance at (731) 424-0217. Contact Dicus Disposal for an on-site dumpster at (731) 707-0398.
Start your to-do list early in the spring to give you more time to have fun this summer. Save this special Home Improvement section for reference and to help find the right person to help you get the job done.
Essential Steps in Spring Yard Clean-Up
by John Wambles
The weather is starting to remind us that it is time to get back out in the yard and get back to work on making it look good. Some people love it, some people hate it, but everyone has to get it done one way or another. The website
www.eufy.com had some excellent suggestions for getting started. Start by cleaning up debris that may be in the yard left by winter weather. Rain, snow and ice can weigh down and break branches and cause leaves to fall. Raking is not only helpful
in removing the build-up but it also helps aerate your lawn. This makes it easier for your lawn to soak up much nned moisture and nutrients. Make sure and properly dispose of the branches and clutter you remove. It is good to follow clean-up with
pruning. Pruning you trees, shrubs and perennials of their dead and damaged leaves and branches helps encourage new growth. This is a major preventative to plant disease. Overgrown branches can also weaken a plant or tree. Trimming shrubs
helps maintain even growth. Perennials should be trimmed down to two to three inches above the ground. Dispose of a;; of your trimmings with your winter cleanup. Time to work on those pesky weeds. The sooner you re -
move the weeds, the easier the task will be all season. When pulling the weeds, make sure and pull the roots so they do not regrow. This is the best way if you want to keep a chemical free yard. A common mistake is pulling weeds when the ground is soft
and wet. Seeds from weeds tend to spread easier then. After pulling weeds you can add a pre-emergent herbicide to keep the seeds from sprouting. Aeration is super important for a beautiful lawn. Grass roots need water, air and nutrients to
grow strong and lush for a fully covered yard. A powered or manual aerator is recommended for the yard. Especially in the early part of the Spring season. Raking and mowing also help aerate your yard. It is suggested not to cut your lawn more than one-third in length at one time. Sharp mower blades ensure a clean and accurate cut. Avoid clumps and uneven spots by mowing only when the grass is dry. A healthy lawn needs lots of moisture. Mulching is a simple way to ensure the water is getting where it needs to go. Placing mulch around your plants and helps reduce water evaporation. It also decomposes and fertilizes the soil, as it minimizes the growth of weeds. Mulch is a compost material made up of wood chips, bark and straw. Two to three inches of mulch is typically plenty. Avoid placing mulch around tree trunks. The mulch could trap too much moisture and cause rot in the roots. It is best for a thicker, greener and stronger lawn to fertilize. Winter can deplete your lawn of essential
nutrients. Fertilizers also aid the lawn in resisting disease and growing weeds. There are two types of fertilizers, organic and synthetic. Organic fertilizers are made like compost and keep your yard healthy over time. If want something more fast-acting, a synthetic fertilizer will give your grass and plants a quick boost. To fertilize like a pro, here are some tips. Let your professional help you pick the right fertilizer for your yard. Visit www. eufy.com and use their guide. It is very important to spread evenly. You want to avoid burning your grass or patches in your yard with too much. Put it down on dry grass only and then you want to lightly water your lawn to set it in.
All yards have those embarrassing bare patches. First thing in Spring is the best time to reseed. These patches will also encourage weed growth if not managed properly. Different types of patches may require different types of seeds, A strong grass like fescue or bluegrass is needed in high traffic areas. Shady spots need a grass seed mix that is shade-
friendly. Sunny spots need a drought-resistant seed. It is best to loosen the soil up with a rake first. Spread the grass seed evenly over the bare patch. Water lightly so you do not wash away or disturb your distribution of seeds.
The winter clutter of leaves, twigs and branches can attract all types of bugs and diseases. A powdery mildew, dead grass or brown and yellow spots can be a sign of gungal disease in your yard. Loose patches and small patches of wilting or dead grass and be a definite sign of insect infestation. If you choose to go the organic route Neem oil is great for fungal issues and nematodes
can me used for insects. For a more immediate solution use a chemical fungicide or insecticide.
This can be a fun DIY project or feel free to contact Lewy's Sod, Landscaping and Dirt Work. They will gladly help you with any lawn care questions and needs that you may have. Give them a call at (731) 407-4095. Got a big tree job you need to handle, Tennessee Roots, LLC will be there ASAP. Contact them at (731) 333-3232.No job is too big or small for Kinsey LLC Tree Service, contact them at (731) 924-5002. Visit their Facebook page, or see their ads in this special Home Improvement Section.
How to Pick the Right Plants for Your Location
STATEPOINT
When planning your yard or garden, you likely focus on the what and the where.
After all, a beautiful plant in a prime location enhances curb appeal and even bragging rights. You may pay less attention though to understanding how your location, or plant hardiness zone, impacts your garden’s success.
To help ensure your plants don’t just survive, but thrive, the experts at lawn care equipment manufacturer
Exmark are sharing the following insights about plant hardiness:
What is Plant Hardiness?
Plant hardiness is the secret sauce of any healthy outdoor space. Plant hardiness is the ability of a plant to survive adverse growing conditions such as
(c) DavidPrahl / iStock via Getty Images Plus
drought, flooding, heat and cold. Have you ever watched with frustration as a late-season temperature dip leaves your beautiful buds with a serious case of frostbite? Plant hardiness zones were developed to help landscapers, gardeners and lawn care enthusiasts avoid this heartache.
American farming contributes billions of dollars to the gross national product annually, which is one reason why the USDA has long monitored weather data. If determining when the average final frost may occur for every region in the country is worth billions, what could that same knowledge mean for your garden? Well, choosing plants with hardiness levels appropriate to specific planting zones gives you the best chance of cultivating healthy, beautiful plants.
What is My Growing Zone?
The United States is divided into 13 zones. Zones 1-6 being the coldest, and 7-13 the warmest. Zone 1 averages -60 degrees F while zone 13 never drops below 70 degrees F. A general guideline is to plant anything designated for your zone or lower, but never higher. Know what zone you live in and make a point of checking the tag on the back of the plant or seed pack before planting.
Perennials Versus Annuals
There’s a reason you see palm trees in Sarasota, Florida, not Saginaw, Michigan. When it comes to perennials, it’s not about when the first frost is, but how cold it gets, and whether that plant can survive and thrive through winter.
Plant hardiness zones are less important however when it comes to annuals. Because these plants are only meant to last one growing season; waiting until after the average first frost date will save you from having to re-plant. Know that even if your plant survives the frost, it may never match the photo you saw advertised at the nursery.
Planting Zone Rule of Thumb
Plant hardiness zone maps are, well, all over the map. Consider the number assigned to your zip code as a starting point. You may live right at the break between one zone and the other. When in doubt, guess too low, rather than too high. In the South, the heat stress a plant not made for the conditions. Your particular geography can also affect your hardiness zone, like if you live on a hill or in a valley.
For more insights, check out the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, and watch “Find Your Plant Hardiness Zone,” an episode of “Backyard Smart,” an original series from lawn care equipment manufacturer, Exmark. To watch the video, visit Backyard Life, which is part of a unique multimedia destination with a focus on helping homeowners improve their outdoor living spaces. There you can also download additional tips and view other Exmark Original Series videos.
Understanding what plants will thrive in your climate is essential to a healthy landscape. Fortunately, free resources abound to help you plant successfully.
Easy Steps to Create Your Homebuying Budget 5
STATEPOINT
One of the most important steps to take while house hunting is to create an intentional budget that accounts for both upfront costs and recurring expenses. Doing so will help you find a home that meets both your lifestyle needs and financial situation. Here’s how:
1. Assess What You Can Afford: A common way to generally estimate the price range of a home you can afford is to multiply your annual gross income (what you earn before taxes) by three to five, according to Fidelity. Understand that mortgage rates will have a big impact too. Lower rates can substantially increase your purchasing power. Lenders set an interest rate for each person based on several factors, such as credit score. A higher credit score could mean a lower interest rate or better loan term.
2. Account for Upfront Costs: When budgeting, account for these one-time upfront costs you’ll pay after your offer is accepted: The down payment: This is typically between 5% and 20% of the home’s purchase price. However, qualified borrowers can put down as little as 3% with options such as Freddie Mac's Home Possible or HomeOne mortgages. Both require private mortgage insurance, which is an additional expense to consider.
Earnest money deposit: Earnest money, also known as a good faith deposit, amounts to approximately 1%2% of the purchase price of the home and is a sum you submit with your offer to show the seller you’re serious. During closing, the amount you pay in earnest money can be applied toward your down payment or closing costs.
Home inspection: The home inspection, which will be your responsibility, typically costs between $300 and $450, according to recent estimates from Rocket Mortgage, and will tell you about the home and its potential issues. Your realtor should be able to recommend several well-qualified inspectors.
Closing costs: Closing costs are what you will pay to the people representing your purchase, such as
your lender and real estate agent. Also known as settlement fees, closing costs typically amount to 2% to 5% of the purchase price, and you may be able to roll them into your loan. Work with your lender to find the approach that best fits your financial situation.
Moving expenses: Whether you hire professional movers or DIY your move, online resources such as Realtor.com’s moving cost calcu-
lator can help you estimate potential costs. When hiring movers, get quotes to ensure you are getting a fair price and to avoid moving fraud.
3. Plan for Ongoing Expenses: Once you’re in the home, you’ll be responsible for making monthly payments. These may include your mortgage principal, interest, property taxes, homeowners insurance, private mortgage insurance, escrow payments and homeowners association fees. Most lenders agree that you should spend no more than 30% of your gross monthly income on these expenses, though this number will depend on your financial situation. You’ll also need to save for regular maintenance expenses, such as appliance upkeep.
4. Leave Room for Flexibility: Be sure to factor in savings for repairs or replacements of big-ticket items, such as your roof or HVAC system. Such flexibility in your budget can also help you weather financial emergencies, such as job loss, illness and other unexpected circumstances.
at myhome.freddiemac.com. This free online resource also offers a wealth of essential information to guide you at every stage of your home journey.
5. Use Tools to Guide Your Decision: To help you answer the critical question of how much home you can afford, use Freddie Mac’s home affordability calculator found
As you hunt for the home of your dreams, stay prepared and informed. One essential aspect of doing so is to set a realistic budget that accounts for the true costs of homeownership.
Roof Coating • Driveway Coating New Inventory
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Where to Put a Microwave in a Small Kitchen
STATEPOINT
For those with compact kitchens, a common dilemma is the ideal placement of the microwave oven. When every inch of space counts, finding the perfect spot for this vital appliance can make all the difference.
Deciding where to put a traditional countertop microwave can result in your tiny kitchen feeling even more cramped than it already is. That’s where the sleek and space-saving solution of the drawer style microwave comes into play.
“In the quest for both functionality and style, the game-changing world of drawer style microwave ovens can transform your compact cooking haven into a sleek and efficient space.” says Peter Weedfald, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Sharp Home Electronics Company of America
Here are some of the major benefits of this style of microwave:
1. Undercounter Elegance: Drawer style microwaves are designed to fit seamlessly under your countertops, providing a streamlined and sophisticated look.
Unlike traditional microwaves that can occupy valuable counter space, drawer style microwaves can blend effortlessly into your kitchen cabinetry, giving you a clutter-free cooking zone.
2. Ergonomic Accessibility: One of the standout features of this style microwave is the ergonomic design. Positioned at a convenient height, they reduce the need to reach or bend over, making them more accessible for users of all ages. Say goodbye to the hassle of lifting hot dishes from an overhead microwave. With the press of a button or a voice command (depending on the model), effortlessly slide out the drawer style oven and you’re all set!
3. Multi-Func-
tional Marvels: Drawer style microwave ovens often come with additional features. For example, select Sharp Microwave Drawer Ovens offer touchless operation, a concealed control panel and even integrated convection capabilities to enhance the functionality of your kitchen.
4. Seamless Integration: When it comes to creating a cohesive kitchen aesthetic, drawer
style microwaves are the epitome of seamless integration. Available in various finishes and styles, these microwaves can complement your existing cabinetry, contributing to a polished and unified look.
So, where should you put your drawer style oven? According to Sharp Home Electronics Company of America, the original inventor, designer and manufacturer of
built-in drawer style microwave ovens, here are a few guidelines to consider:
• Adjacent to cooking zones: Strategically installing your drawer style microwave close to your range or oven encourages a smoother workflow and allows for you to transfer hot dishes easily
while minimizing the risk of spills.
• Island installation: Incorporating a drawer style microwave into a kitchen island is a popular choice. This central location ensures accessibility from all sides, making it a convenient and accessible choice for various kitchen activities.
• Integrated
design: If you’re undergoing a kitchen remodel, consult with your designer to integrate the drawer style microwave seamlessly into your cabinetry. This could not only maximize space but also enhance the overall aesthetics of your kitchen.
For more information about drawer style microwaves and other kitchen appliances, visit shop.sharpusa. com.
“Microwave drawer ovens, with their space-saving design and range of functional benefits, have redefined kitchen design. By incorporating a microwave drawer oven, you can create a functional and beautiful culinary space that defies the limitations of kitchen space,” says Weedfald.
Take The Life-Saving STep of TeSTing for radon
STATEPOINT
Radon—an odorless, tasteless and colorless gas found in homes and buildings at high levels throughout the United States—is the second leading cause of lung cancer, responsible for about 21,000 deaths each year, and the leading cause of lung cancer among people who don’t smoke.
The American Lung Association is partnering with Protect Environmental to educate and empower communities nationwide to take action to prevent lung cancer. As part of the campaign,
they are answering some frequently asked questions about radon: What is radon? Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas emitted from the ground. Uranium in soil and rocks breaks down to form radium. As radium decays, radioactive particles (radon gas) are released into the air.
Why is radon found in buildings? Radon gas enters buildings through cracks in walls, basements, floors, foundations, and potentially, through water used in showers and faucets, trapping it inside.
Why is radon harmful? Radon gas particles can be inhaled in your lungs, attacking cells with dangerous, cancercausing radiation. Radon exposure has no immediate symptoms; however, the long-term threat of health problems, including lung cancer, is serious. How is radon detected? The only way to know the radon level in your home and workplace is to conduct a radon test. Dangerous radon levels have been found in every state, so every building should be regularly tested. Test-
ing is the first step in reducing risk of radon-induced lung cancer and is recommended every two to five years, even if you have a mitigation system. The Lung Association and Protect Environmental are offering free radon test kits to homeowners in select communities across the United States. Visit Lung. org/protect-environmental to learn more and check your eligibility for receiving a test kit. What should I do if I detect high radon levels? Radon gas is measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L) of air. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends taking action to reduce radon if levels are 4.0 pCi/L or greater, and to consider similar actions when the radon level is between 2.0 and 4.0 pCi/L. If you discover high radon levels in your home, a radon mitigation system should be installed to reduce the amount of radon to a safer level. Just be sure you work with a professional who is certified in radon mitigation. Using unquali-
fied professionals may lead to faulty installation, which can cause property damage and even increase indoor radon levels.
The American Lung Association’s campaign to raise awareness on the importance of radon testing is supported by
Protect Environmental. For more information, visit Lung.org/protectenvironmental.
“I’ve been to too many homes where no one knew to test for radon until someone in the home got the devastating diagnosis of lung cancer,” says
Kyle Hoylman, chief executive officer of Protect Environmental.
“Taking action to reduce radon through mitigation and regular testing is an investment in the lung health of everyone in the building and could be a lifesaving improvement.”
Door Design Tips to Enhance Your Home’s Beauty and Value
STATEPOINT
When choosing doors for your home, remember that careful selections can improve not only your home’s beauty and value, but also your quality of life. Here are a few door types to consider, along with their benefits:
Elevate with exterior French doors: French doors double the design impact, and elevate the front entryway and curb appeal of any home. Manufacturers like ProVia offer customizations on every element of French doors so you can make a truly unique statement. Start by choosing from various styles, materials and finishes. Then, consider the addition of sidelites, transoms and decorative or privacy glass. Given how many factors you have control over, it’s helpful to use a design tool to configure the door of your dreams. Visit provia.com/ design-center to get started. Rest assured, no matter what your end results look like, there are a few factors you won’t have to worry about with ProVia doors: durability and energy efficiency. Virtually every possible combination of door style, glass, sidelite and transom is built
to last a lifetime and is ENERGY STAR certified. Protect with storm doors: Storm doors provide doors and homes with an extra layer of protection from moisture, heat, wind, rain and other elements. Everyone has different requirements though. Fortunately, storm doors can be individually customized to meet your practical and aesthetic needs. Depending on where you live, factors like the thickness and construction of the storm door can make a big difference in its performance. You’ll also want to investigate your glass and screen options for added fresh air circulation in your home. While storm doors are often thought about more in terms of their functionality, it’s important to keep in mind that varying hardware options, styles and paint finishes allow you to seamlessly blend yours in with the aesthetic of your home. Bring the outside in with sliding glass patio doors: Want to bathe your home interiors with light and the beauty of your natural surroundings? One of the most effective, low-maintenance ways to do just that is with vinyl sliding glass patio doors.
Those from ProVia are tested against the most stringent industry standards for air and water infiltration, wind load resistance, ease of operation and more. This means you’ll have lower heating and cooling costs and increased comfort all while
offering your household full, unparalleled views of your outdoor spaces.
Customization options, such as the materials and colors of the interior frame and the type of glass you choose, can help you tailor the look and functionality of your sliding
glass doors. For more design tips, visit provia. com.
For a true return on your home improvement project, consider how a door replacement can elevate your home’s style while protecting it from the elements.
