Central Keystone Living Spring 2022

SPRING 2022

H O M E B U I L D E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F M E T R O P O L I TA N H A R R I S B U R G

B d e n t t a e r r e t h g i r B New Trends and Products for 2022

FEATURING

MA

Home

GLEND

MAY 5-8, 2022

LOOKING FOR THE WAY

HOME?

Finding the right mortgage starts by talking to the right bank.

Whether you’re buying for the first time, upgrading to a bigger space, or downsizing to a smaller one we can help you find your way home.

Stop by any of our local Harrisburg offices today.

To find the location nearest you, visit www.fnb-online.com/locator or call 1-800-555-5455.

All loans subject to credit and property approval.

This is not a commitment to lend.

Contents Central Keystone Living Magazine is owned by the Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Harrisburg.

Our Mission: Supporting Building Industry Professionals & Serving as a Respected Community Resource.

2022 HBA BOARD of DIRECTORS President Greg Harris, G. P. Harris Construction, Inc. Vice President Stephen Fleming, Biltbold Building Company Associate Vice President Jim Rhoads, Swartz Kitchens & Baths Secretary Robert Wright, RJ Wright Design/Build Treasurer Matt Harshbarger, F & M Trust Immediate Past President President Joshua Juffe, Gemcraft Homes, Inc.

Builder Members Jonathan Bowser, Steel Works Construction Eric Burger, Susquehanna Valley Builders Russell Goodling, Russell Goodling Construction Terry Loughran, Bridlewood Builders Colette Nelson, Landmark Homes Bryan Rodriguez, Berks Homes Ben Smith, Smith Homes, Inc. Bobbie Van Buskirk, A. P. Williams, Inc.

Associate Members Brad Baer, Classic Rock Fabrications Justin McClure, Daflure Heating & Cooling Steven Snyder, Steven R. Snyder, Attorney at Law Rich Stahovich, UGI Utilities Paul Hepler, Yingst Homes

Executive Vice President Kristi Walsh, IOM Kristi@harrisburgbuilders.com Event & Communications Manager Lauren Dodge Lauren@harrisburgbuilders.com

Member Services Manager Krystal Shearer Shearerk@harrisburgbuilders.com Executive Assistant Tina Bistline Tina@harrisburgbuilders.com

CONTACT US: Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Harrisburg 2416 Park Dr, Harrisburg, PA 17110 717-232-5595 or 1-800-281-5539 Fax: 717-232-5605 www.harrisburgbuilders.com

SPRING 2022

Special Feature 2022 Showcase Home

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Join Us for the Big Reveal Meet the Decorators

Building Our Community

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Building Brighter Futures

What’s Trending Now

Brighter and Better in 2022

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Best of the Best in Building Products

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Brighter and Better in 2022

22

Should I Replace My Windows Before Selling?

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Should You STAY or Should You GO?

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18

Signs Your Air Conditioner is Running Inefficiently

What to Consider When Replacing Your Sliding Glass Door

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Indoor Entertainment Areas for the Whole Family

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Earth Day: Eco-Friendly Home & Sustainable Materials

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Creating the Perfect Habitat for Wine

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5 Design Features for a Rustic Landscape

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Carpet Isn’t Canceled!

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Designing a Multi-Level Swimming Pool

FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES: SHERRY BOLINGER Sherry@hoffpubs.com • 717.979.2858 • 610.685.0914 x202 SEE PAST ISSUES AT CKL.HoffmannPublishing.com SPREAD THE WORD #KeystoneLivingMag The written and visual contents of this magazine are protected by copyright. Reproduction of print or digital articles without written permission from Hoffmann Publishing Group, Inc., and/or the Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Harrisburg is forbidden. The placement of paid advertisements does not imply endorsement by the HBA of Metropolitan Harrisburg.

Publisher: Hoffmann Publishing Group, Inc.

2669 Shillington Road, Box 438, Reading, PA 19608 610.685.0914

Find Us On:

Showcase Home

JOIN US FOR THE BIG REVEAL

T

he Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Harrisburg (HBA) is pleased to present the 2022 Showcase Home event, your premier Mother’s Day weekend destination! Visitors are invited to experience the top-quality design & craftsmanship of a $1+ million 4100 sq ft home built by Biltbold in Glendale Estates, Mechanicsburg.

What do you get when you create a mash-up of Cape Cod, Southern Traditional, and classic Craftsman design styles? One magnificent house, built exclusively by Biltbold for the Showcase Home event! Biltbold was founded by Stephen Fleming, P.E., and current VP of the HBA Board of Directors. It is his belief that the right balance of material selection, construction technique, and technology makes for a timeless home. The Biltbold engine runs on the pursuit of that balance, steered by proper home site selection, and driven by a team of innovative professionals with a combined 50+ years of construction and development experience. See the care that Biltbold puts into their homes firsthand during the event.

The Showcase Home event is more than a self-guided home tour; it is an experience celebrating not only the finest in new home construction, but also the local vendors and service providers who help make it happen. There’s something for everyone! Looking for home décor inspiration? The first floor of the home will be fully furnished and decorated with the latest design trends by multiple local designers and retailers. Getting the look has never been easier—as a special feature of the event, all of the furnishings will be for

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Central Keystone Living // SPRING 2022

sale. Thinking about updating? The Showcase Home boasts cutting edge appliances and technology, and visitors will have the opportunity to chat with participating product & service vendors at the end of their tour. Finally ready to build your dream home? Meet the builder behind the beautiful Showcase Home in-person to ask questions and start the process.

At the conclusion of the tour, visitors may enjoy coffee, dessert, and light bites provided by a local food truck at the Showcase Home Café. Potted garden flowers will also be available for purchase!

The Showcase Home event runs May 5-8, 2022, from 11am to 7pm each day. This event is free and open to the public; however, the HBA will be accepting voluntary donations for the HBA Scholarship fund to help develop the next generation of builders.

ABOUT THE HBA

The HBA of Metropolitan Harrisburg is an organization of local home building professionals engaged in the construction (residential and commercial), services, and remodeling industries representing various trades such as contractors, plumbers, electricians, roofers, HVAC contractors, landscapers and many more. We serve all corners of Central PA with a focus on Dauphin, Cumberland, Perry, and Juniata counties. As a group of peers and partners we strive to strengthen and support our communities and our customers by protecting the dream of home ownership and the principles of affordable housing.

Visit www.harrisburgbuilders.com.

MAY 5-8 2022

HarrisburgBuilders.com

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M AY 5 - 8 , 2 0 2 2 Home Open 11am to 7pm Each Day

4 BLUE MARLIN WAY GLENDALE ESTATES, MECHANICSBURG

MORE THAN A HOME TOUR! Experience the top-quality design & craftsmanship of a $1+ Million Home

Enjoy handcrafted coffee, teas, and light bites at the Showcase Home Café

First level of home will be furnished & decorated by local designers

Potted garden flowers will be available for purchase

All furniture & décor will be for sale

Perfect destination for a Mother’s Day outing

Learn about the home’s features from product & service vendors

Support future builders with a donation to the HBA Scholarship Fund

FEATURED VENDORS

M E E T T H E D ECO R ATO R S

All furniture & décor on display in the Showcase Home will be for sale.

Professional home staging is a marketing tool and has been proven to sell homes faster and for more money. Knowing how to properly present or “market” your home is both a science and an art. Blue Stone Staging + Design is professionally trained on the science aspect, and the art comes in creativity. At Blue Stone, we analyze buyer perception and derive a plan that will show the home in the best light possible.

We’ll bring in on-trend furniture, art, and accessories that will appeal to today’s buyer. Serving Harrisburg, PA and surrounding areas, including Camp Hill, Elizabethtown, Hershey, Hummelstown, Lancaster, and Mechanicsburg.

www.bluestonehomestaging.com David’s Interiors is celebrating 50 years of serving Central Pennsylvania. We offer the finest quality, latest designs, and the best brands available in home furnishings, never sacrificing our high standards. Our collection of pieces are carefully selected to meet our customers’ needs while fitting into most budgets. With our team of interior design consultants working with you every step of the way, you eliminate costly mistakes or the fear of having made a wrong decision. We can transform either a room or an entire home into a warm and inviting environment that reflects your lifestyle.

www.davidsinteriors.com Looking for home or office furniture from a company you can depend upon? For the past fifty years, Interior Furniture Resources (IFR) has been Central Pennsylvania’s leading resource for home, office and rental furniture. We adhere to the highest standards in the furniture industry. IFR offers the very best selections from the brand names you know and trust. No matter what your specific needs may be, our professional team of relocation experts and designers can help you put together the home or office that will fulfill your needs and exceed your expectations.

www.ifr-furniture.com INTERIORS HOME was founded in 1969 with the goal of meeting Lancaster’s need for high quality, fashionable home furnishings. Interiors has grown to meet the needs not just of Lancaster, but to all of its surrounding Counties and communities in Central Pennsylvania with two stores, Lancaster and Camp Hill. At INTERIORS HOME we are dedicated to providing stylish, quality home furnishings to fit any budget. Our motivated and talented team members are here to serve our customers.

www.interiors-furniture.com *Photos depict samples of the Decorators’ work on other projects

Building Our Community

BUILDING BRIGHTER FUTURES I magine a world without construction contractors, masons, plumbers, electricians, etc. These craftspeople and technicians provide services that are critical to meeting our everyday needs. The Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Harrisburg understands the importance of these roles and strongly supports educating students about career path options to build the next generation of the workforce.

We have many HBA Members who participate on occupational advisory committees providing In-Class demonstrations, seminars, training, and work hand-in-hand on special projects with the area career and technical schools. It is their passion to help enlighten the students on a career in the trades from a firsthand real-world perspective.

Have You Considered a Career in the Trades?

State Wage and Workforce Demand Data: Pennsylvania Annual Wages in Construction: Pennsylvania First‐Line Supervisors Construction Trades Brickmasons and Blockmasons

$67,760

$59,390

Carpenters

$68,520

$55,850

Tile and Stone Setters

$76,570

$59,360

Construction Laborers

$54,220

$45,260

Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators

$41,600

$52,130

Operating Engineers & Other Construction Equipment Operators

$73,830

$62,280

Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers

$61,940

$53,660

Electricians

$85,990

$70,300

Glaziers

$54,170

Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall

$42,600

Painters, Construction and Maintenance

$60,320

$50,420

$47,640

$56,960

Pipelayers

$61,920

Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters

$62,040

Plasterers and Stucco Masons

$79,550 $72,760 $89,670

$60,790

Roofers

$49,840

$58,750

Construction and Building Inspectors

$60,100

Tapers

$60,180

Top 25% Earn at Least

Source: Occupational Employment Statistics (OES), Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020.

Central Keystone Living // SPRING 2022

$90,100

$62,220

Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers

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$94,100

$77,430

Mean

$72,930 $65,580

DINO TOZZI

GET CLEAR WINDOWS LLC

The need to build up the next generation of the workforce has never been greater between the aging population of today’s workforce and the ever-increasing demand for new homes. As regional and national demand for these workers have increased, so too have the potential earnings for these careers. An Occupational Employment Study done in 2020

by The Bureau of Labor Statistics found that half of payroll workers in construction earn more than $50,460 and the top 25% make at least $71,000. In comparison, the overall U.S. median wage is $49,150, while the top 25% makes at least $67,410.

Year over year, median wages in construction rose 3%.

However, wages of multiple entry-level construction trades increased at a faster rate. Median wages of helpers of various construction tradesmen went up 5%.

In 1987 the HBA established a Scholarship Fund and to date has awarded over $400,000 to support students in continuing their education for careers related to the Home Building Industry.

Without these trained trade professionals, it would not have been possible to build the magnificent Showcase Home.

Donations to the HBA Scholarship Fund will be accepted upon the conclusion of the Showcase Home Tour. We look forward to seeing you at the Showcase Home and thank you in advance for your support in our efforts to Build Bright Futures in the home building industry!

Window Replacement • Over 30 years experience Contact us for a FREE HOME ASSESSMENT 129 Bridge Street New Cumberland, PA 17070

717-395-5363 www.getclearwindows.com HarrisburgBuilders.com

What’s Trending

BEST OF THE BEST IN BUILDING PRODUCTS

By Karen L. Chandler

T

he National Association of Home Builders celebrated their picks of 2021’s best building products at the International Builders’ Show.

BEST IN SHOW! Number one on the list and the best of the best of award winners is Evolve Stone, chosen for its look and feel of real stone and the ease of its use in both indoor and outdoor applications, a real boost for today’s homeowners looking for trendy, seamless transitions between their home and outdoor living spaces.

Evolve Stone eliminates the need to hunt for a skilled mason to lay genuine stone and is easy to install with a nail gun and cuts like wood. Not only is Evolve stone beautiful, but its durability and waterproof qualities will make it a hit for home designs.

Contact a design and build professional from the HBA if you would like to discuss using Evolve Stone in your living spaces.

BEST FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND HOME TECHNOLOGY Voted the Best for Energy Efficiency and the Best Home Technology Product, the SPAN Gen 2 Smart Panel by SPAN is a home energy management system that replaces a standard electrical panel.

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Central Keystone Living // SPRING 2022

The Gen 2 Smart Panel makes it easier for homeowners to control their energy use and simplifies solar and storage upgrades. A helpful tool for owners, SPAN gives them the ability to track and optimize their energy use and control separate circuits from the SPAN Home app.

Homeowners with SPAN Gen 2 can see how long their appliances can be run during power outages and make informed choices on whether a solar battery can power their homes until their power comes back on.

Contact an expert contractor from the HBA to discuss how a Smart Panel will help your home run more efficiently.

BEST INDOOR PRODUCT The Best Indoor Product brought to the International Builders’ show was Murphy Door’s Flush Mount Pantry Door. Anyone building a new home or taking on a kitchen remodel can gain valuable and beautiful storage with this innovative design by Murphy.

The new pantry door combines pantry and kitchen storage area into the space of a doorway with

a door front featuring etched glass, mirror, or chalkboard.

The Murphy Door front conceals a reverse side featuring adjustable spice racks and storage shelf, and a fixed shelf all totaling an extra fifteen cubic feet of storage space.

Your HBA builder or remodeler can help you find a great way to incorporate this quality touch into your own kitchen space.

BEST IN KITCHEN AND BATH Another big win for homeowners at the International Builders’ Show was voted the Best Kitchen and Bath Product. The Swidget 20/40/60 Control Switch is a new modular smart home device that can automate a home ventilation system to confirm the breathing air is clean and healthy.

When working with Swidget’s WiFi Motion, the new control switch can automatically turn on and off exhaust fans as needed based on air quality, humidity, or the number of people in the house.

Reach out to your new home builder or an HBA HVAC pro to learn how the new Swidget 20/40/60 control switch can keep your home air as clean and fresh as it can be.

BEST OUTDOOR PRODUCT The renewed focus on entertaining at home makes the IBS Best Outdoor Product a great choice for homeowners looking for both beauty and privacy in their outdoor spaces.

Decorative Screen Panels

by Barrette Outdoor Living are both unusual and affordable private screenings that can fit in décor ranging from modern to nature inspired. Not only are the new panels easy to install, but they are also able to fulfill a wide array of needs that include roof tops, pergola side walls, and railing infills.

Contact your HBA landscaping or building contractor to talk about incorporating Decorative Screen Panels by Barrette Outdoors into your outdoor living space.

BEST WINDOW AND DOOR PRODUCT Security is top of many property owners’ minds, and it was no surprise that the Best Window and Door Product chosen at the IBS was the Panolock Multi-Point Lock by Endura.

Past multipoint locks have had limited uses due to high costs and challenging installations, but the new Panolock Multi-Point Lock works with standard hardware making it an easy addition to patio and entry doors. Affordably priced and well-engineered, the Panolock will make homeowners feel a heightened level of security every day.

Talk to an HBA contractor to have your Multi-Point Locks installed today.

MOST INNOVATIVE IN CONSTRUCTION Voted the Most Innovative Construction Tool, the Timberline Solar Energy Shingles by GAF Energy are the first nailable solar energy shingles to hit the market.

The Solar Energy Shingles install like a regular shingle, giving them the fastest installation time of any other solar option and offering homeowners a shingle that will generate power to their property.

No matter which new products intrigue you as great options to increase the beauty, functionality, and security at your home, an expert HBA member can guide you to the best way to incorporate them into your living spaces!

HarrisburgBuilders.com

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What’s Trending

B d e n t t a e r r e t h g i r B in 2022

By Karen L. Chandler

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022 will be brighter and better as the design and building trends are revealed this year with the winners of the National Association of Home Builders’ 2021 Best in American Living Awards (BALA).

The lasting home design trends brought to light by the BALA winners will be those that home buyers and remodelers will see both this year and several years to come.

The pandemic had a lasting impact on the way people design and use their homes, encouraging a renewed focus on quality, creativity, and the comfort of spending time in their own spaces. A focus on innovation means designers can get creative and pull out the stops with unique ideas that create interest without being overwhelming.

Reach for the heights with interesting ceilings!

Ceilings are becoming interesting again, and detailed designs in ceilings of all heights will include beams and other architectural details painted white or warmed up with natural stains.

Natural wood is in too.

And speaking of natural stains, warm wood tones are highlighted everywhere from the ceiling to floors and cabinetry, rather than a predominance of painted wood from the past few years. Combining cool colors or white with the warmth of wood brings both drama and comfort to every living space.

Timberhaven Log & Timber Homes, a trusted HBA member in Middleburg, can bring the warmth of wood to your home and keep your living space on trend with this year’s top picks.

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Color is cool, but white is too.

White kitchens may have been all the rage, but color is coming back in kitchen designs, whether it shows up in rich tones on a kitchen island, base cabinets, or backsplash. White is still cool but pairing it with warm wood and lots of texture will keep it modern.

Form meets function.

Architects and builders are taking it up a notch when it comes to adding function to living spaces.

Unusual storage spots could mean bringing a new life to a closet or spot under the stairs that may be better served for wine storage or bookshelves. Homeowners may look toward incorporating a prep kitchen, home gym, or a masterful mudroom into a new home or reno design.

Simple is better!

Continuing the theme of a focus on details without the overwhelming fussy décor of years gone by, designers are looking to kitchens to bring a sense of both calm and function. Decluttering a kitchen design can mean the elimination of upper cabinets and the addition of shelving to including both storage and display options in one space.

Floating cabinets can create more freedom for your eye to take in a room, and architects are bringing these design elements to kitchens, but floating bathroom vanities and entertainment centers also provide more space and less visual clutter.

And a focus on function means that some living spaces have to serve double duty. A flex room is a spot that may have been a guest room in its previous life but is recreated as in-law quarters or a business hub while serving as extra living space.

Breathe some fresh air!

A renewed interest in the great outdoors is one of the best things to come from the pandemic. Innovative outdoor spaces invite entertaining, relaxing, and even working from home and can include amazing pools, creative patios, and firepits.

HarrisburgBuilders.com

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What’s Trending

An imaginative pool design by Aquavisions Inc. in Carlisle will create a space that your family and friends will enjoy for years and give your space a vacation feeling every day.

More time at home means that homeowners are extrainspired to create a vacation feel in their own spaces and resort-type amenities like game rooms and pet spas are being incorporated to inspire a staycation feel every day.

In or out?

Beautiful connections between indoors and outdoors emphasize a desire for good health, and architects and builders are highlighting beautiful outdoor spaces with large windows, glass walls, and patio doors. Even a home on a small lot can take advantage of nature with beautiful skylights incorporated into its design.

Reach out to HBA members, Pella Windows & Doors in Harrisburg, ABC Supply in Camp Hill, Garrety Glass of York, and Renewal by Andersen of Central PA in Mechanicsburg for a professional take on the latest in windows and doors to brighten your space.

Landscapes and pools are now part of the total home build or renovation plan so the views from the interior and transitions between the two living spaces are both beautiful and functional.

Head to the professionals at Strathmeyer Landscape in Dover or H & N Landscaping, LLC in Mechanicsburg for an outdoor space that becomes an integral part of your property.

Passing the test of time.

The more indoor and outdoor living areas meld together, the more durable the products need to be in all conditions.

Creative flooring options and wall materials all join together with glass to make cohesive spaces that flow together.

HBA member, James Hardie Building Products in Mechanicsburg, has been ahead of the curve providing durable siding and trim products for decades. Any style home will make a lasting impression with an exterior that retains the look of wood yet is crafted from high technology fiber cement.

Foundations are not to be forgotten, and durability is key when it comes to the basis of your new home or addition.

Advanced Concrete Systems in Middleburg or C Squared of Duncannon can offer you the professional and high-quality start that your living space deserves.

Other housing options.

A home option that receives a design update this year is the broad arena of affordable housing. These developments are morphing from utilitarian designs to incorporate higher end details and a greater focus on the community and surrounding landscape. Check in with the PA Manufactured Housing Association in New Cumberland to hear what is new in affordable living spaces near you. The PA Housing Finance Agency is another good source for more housing information and affordable lending options.

Brighten your year!

If you feel like it may be time to brighten your 2022 with the beautiful top trends this year will bring, reach out to your professionals at the Home Builders Association of Metro Harrisburg for quality results that will enrich your life.

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Coming this fall!

September 24 to October 2, 2022

www.PAParadeOfHomes.com

Get the Facts

Should You STAY or Should You GO?

By Karen L. Chandler

I

f you have lived in your home for a long time, you may be thinking about heading toward greener pastures. But if your budget may not make a new home possible, a renovation may be a better path to take. If making the choice to stay or go is somewhat overwhelming, here are some key things to think about.

Here are some questions to ask yourself when you are ready to make the decision to stay or go:

The real estate forecast for 2022 is a bit chaotic.

Economists for Realtor.com believe Americans may have somewhat higher hopes of finding homes this year, but listing prices, mortgages, and rent rates are all predicted to rise as incomes increase.

Reach out to an HBA area realtor like RSR, Realtors in Lemoyne for help in locating a great spot whether you choose to build a new home or are looking for an already loved property. And when your decision is made, Affiliated Settlement Services in Camp Hill can guide you through the settlement insurance process.

And the pandemic played havoc on the market, delaying move plans and affecting job situations, so while more Americans are going to be house hunting, more sellers are expected to list while opportunities are ripe.

Reaching out to a trusted Home Builders Association of Metro Harrisburg member like the Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors for advice will go a long way toward helping you navigate the coming real estate market.

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Do you have the budget to move?

If you live in an area that has either affordable new homes or building lots, contact a builder known for quality construction who belongs to the HBA like Biltbold Building or visit www.harrisburgbuilders.com for a complete list of home builders.

Is staying where you are now important to you and your family?

If you love your neighborhood and your school system, you could try to find a new home nearby, but maybe giving your home a renovation update is the best option.

The pros in the HBA of Metro Harrisburg are awaiting your call when it comes to creating your dream home without packing a moving truck. And keep in mind, if you can upgrade your home without changing your floor plan, it could save you almost half the cost of altering the structure.

Consider not packing the moving truck! Beautify your home instead.

Retaining your floor plan will allow for the creativity of a new kitchen or bath, with the help of Classic Rock for great counter options through Swartz Kitchens & Baths in Harrisburg, Lancaster, and York. New appliances will go a long way to making your kitchen design just the way you dream it can be. A visit to Appliance Distributors Unlimited in York will be a great way to outfit your space to be both beautiful and functional.

Always remember to ensure that your plumbing renovations are top notch with a call to Bob Means Plumbing, a trusted HBA member in the Harrisburg area.

Custom window treatments from Budget Blinds of Harrisburg, Hershey, and Carlisle will not only keep your home more energy efficient but bring elegance and beauty throughout the space. And new colors and flooring always make a home look fresh. Head to Coach Potato, Hummelstown for a wide variety of carpet, wood, tile, and vinyl, and to Sherwin Williams, also in Harrisburg, for exciting paint and wallpaper to create just the living space you want.

An exterior update can go a long way toward making your house look new again. Reach out to James Hardie Building Products in Mechanicsburg for the latest and greatest in durable and beautiful siding options.

Are you sure the renovations you plan will increase your property value?

It is always best to check with a realtor or contractor to be sure the changes you plan will enhance your home’s value if you expect to sell down the line. If the renovations you consider are not really making sense for your family goals, it may be best to consider a move.

Heating and cooling concerns are key issues to check when you consider a fixer-upper. A call to a pro like HBA member, Daflure Heating & Cooling in New Cumberland, will go a long way toward putting your mind at rest about potential problems down the road.

Still on the fence?

Making a move can be an exciting, but stressful time, and filled with ups and downs. A new place to live is a chance to start over with a new home and new friends, but moving can be expensive with fees along the way and brings with it the stress of sorting and packing your life to make the trip.

A remodel can sometimes cost less than a move because most renovating can be done a little at a time, according to what your budget will allow. But if your home needs a complete remodel, moving to a new or recently updated property may be a better option. If so be sure to call MOVERSFORME in Mechanicsburg to assist.

And there are these complications for renovations. If your budget cannot stretch to pay out of pocket for construction costs, you need to ensure that you have the home equity needed to be approved for a loan. And renovating is a messy business. Depending on what rooms are getting their updates, you may need to consider a hotel or a stay with friends or family until your home is livable again.

Have you decided?

No matter which path you choose, a new property or a renovation, check in with the trusted professionals at your HBA of Metro Harrisburg to help you along the way at www.harrisburgbuilders.com.

Will moving raise or lower your property taxes?

Make sure to check on the property taxes in the counties where you consider making your new home and get the advice of your realtor to be sure you can afford the cost of your move as time goes on.

What about buying a “handyman house”?

While the idea of a handyman special might sound frightening, a remodel on the worst house in a great neighborhood could give you bang for your buck. Always consult with a trusted HBA realtor and contact an expert HBA contractor to ensure an investment in a fixer-upper will be in your best interest.

Laurel I. Yohe

Accounting Services

14 Hamilton Road • Boiling Springs, PA 17007-9762 717-258-6431 • liy@pa.net

HarrisburgBuilders.com

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What’s Trending

Signs Your Air Conditioner is Running Inefficiently

By Daflure Heating & Air Conditioning

W

hen the weather is hot outside, you will need to make sure that your air conditioner adequately cools your home. However, even if your air conditioning system cools your home properly, there are things you should do to optimize its efficiency. An inefficient air conditioner can make you pay more than necessary on your utility bills. Here are three steps to take to make your air conditioning system run more efficiently.

MAKE SURE YOUR THERMOSTAT HAS ENOUGH POWER Since most thermostats operate on battery power, it is necessary to inspect them once in a while to see if they have enough energy. If your thermostat’s batteries are running low, it can cause irregular input to be sent to your air conditioning system. This, in turn, causes an uptick in power consumption. To prevent your thermostat from wasting power, be sure to inspect and change the batteries from time to time.

KEEP YOUR AIR FILTER CLEAN A clean filter allows air to flow through unobstructed. If there are blockages in your air filter, not enough air will be able to flow through, which causes your air conditioning unit to work harder. This overwork can make your energy bills spike. To lower the risk of air filter obstructions causing more energy consumption, make sure to clean or replace them in a timely fashion. New filters are inexpensive to purchase.

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Central Keystone Living // SPRING 2022

KEEP THE BLOWER CLEAN Your air conditioner’s blower, which propels chilled air through your home’s ducts, is located at the top of the unit underneath a metal enclosure. Dust can frequently build up on the surface of the fan, which can lower its power efficiency and the air quality in your residence. In order to keep your power bills and the dust content in the air down, be sure to call a professional to clean your blower if you suspect there is a dust buildup on the surface.

What’s Trending

EARTH DAY: ECO-FRIENDLY HOME & SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS

By Michael Buck, James Hardie

EACH YEAR ON APRIL 22, PEOPLE ACROSS THE GLOBE CELEBRATE EARTH DAY This is a perfect time to reflect on how our actions affect the world around us, from the materials we use, to where we shop, and what we buy.

Every day we can protect our planet by making smart, compassionate, and eco-friendly choices. One way is to support companies that make sustainability a priority, like James Hardie.

Choosing Hardie® siding and trim means selecting an eco-friendly exterior option, made from sustainable raw materials. Our fiber cement building products are made of sand, cellulose fiber, Portland cement, and water (which is recycled up to four times during the manufacturing process).

“There are 80 million owner-occupied homes in the United States and 55% of them are 40 years old or more – which tallies up to 44 million 40-plus-year-old houses. We believe that many of those homes are built with wood, vinyl and other materials that are not durable enough, or are highly flammable, or are just not going to be fit to survive more adverse natural disaster conditions. We see James Hardie in that light as a solution homeowners can turn to.”

- James Hardie Leadership Team

JAMES HARDIE’S GREEN BUILDING MATERIALS PRACTICES HAVE ALSO BEEN RECOGNIZED BY THE INDUSTRY Our company was named the “Greenest Siding Brand” in the Green Builder® Media annual Readers’ Choice survey for 2020. The Readers’ Choice survey polls green building professionals in the residential construction industry who test products for a living and provide informed, credible recommendations that other industry professionals can rely on.

We make decisions every day that affect our environment, and today is the perfect day to reevaluate our eco-friendly choices that can keep our air, land, and water clean.

Over time, big things can happen with small changes and James Hardie is proud to help the industry create better homes, with less.

Fiber cement siding is built to last, and durability is a hallmark of sustainable products. Our products not only require fewer resources for replacement, but also help reduce maintenance and repair costs, and better protect homes from severe weather and disasters.

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What’s Trending

5 DESIGN FEATURES FOR A

RUSTIC LANDSCAPE

By GoldGlo Landscapes

A

natural looking landscape automatically invites relaxation and an opportunity for what the Nordic people call “forest bathing” – immersion in nature that soothes the soul and makes for a more inviting outdoor living space. When adding to your landscape design this year, be sure to look into some of the features that make outdoor life special. Here’s why landscapers near me suggest these five landscape design features for creating a rustic backyard look in Mechanicsburg and Camp Hill, PA.

NATURALISTIC WATERFALL

Since not everyone has a natural moving body of water in their backyard, landscapers have become skilled at building naturalistic waterfalls. These closed-loop water systems can send water down an area of rapids or a full drop down into a pool or pond, then send the water back to the top. They can be as “wild” as you want, featuring natural boulders and stone slabs; and infinitely customizable with a simple placement or repositioning of a stone.The outstanding sounds and visuals created will turn your outdoor living space into a wonderland.

FIRE PIT

There are few landscape features that are more timeless and appealing than a fire pit. These simple structures can bring back powerful memories of sitting around the campfire with loved ones, experiencing what the natural world has to offer.

Though modern fire pits can be designed to use natural gas as fuel, the rustic wood-fired fire pit retains an incredible amount of charm. Let this gorgeous masonry structure sit in a secluded area of your landscape so the sounds of the crackling fire can create a beautiful ambience as well as comforting warmth even on the chilliest nights.

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NATIVE LANDSCAPING

To become fully enveloped in a rustic setting, the plant life needs to feel like it belongs. Replace parts of the lawn with native trees, shrubs, flowers, and ground covers.These plants will not only create a color palette and visual texture that enhances the natural setting, but they are hardy and require much less maintenance than their more exotic cousins.

There’s a huge variety of exceptionally beautiful native plants that can provide a visual feast for the eyes as well as providing a habitat for local birds, wildlife, and pollinators.

EDIBLE GARDENS

For those that love to cook outdoors, there is nothing that can instill pride more than growing your own food. Use some of the free space in your outdoor living space for cultivating a variety of edible plants. Raised masonry planters near the outdoor kitchen can enable a wonderful gardening experience and add to the rustic look. Within each plant bed, include an automatic drip irrigation system so you won’t need to spend time and energy worrying about keeping your plants watered.

NATURAL STONE SURFACES

An outdoor living space will feel more in tune with its environment when stones from the region are used. Natural stones that have been quarried locally – such as bluestone – will have the color and texture that enhances the beauty of your landscape. Every slab is completely unique which means your patio and walkways will be unlike any other.

You could use uncut slabs and piece them together like a puzzle; or, use cut stone for easier installation. Vertical surfaces can receive the same native look by choosing manufactured stone veneer that mimics the look of natural stone but is more lightweight and easier to install.

SOLID COVERAGE

FROM FOUNDATION TO RAFTERS Written Insured Warranties for New Home Construction

BUILDER BENEFITS • Limits liability & risk.

• Excellent sales & marketing tool to attract more buyers.

• RWC’s strong insurance backing protects your bottom line.

• Assistance & support with customer disputes, including free mediation.

• Peace-of-mind protection.

800.247.1812 Ext. 2188 sales@rwcwarranty.com www.rwcwarranty.com

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What’s Trending

Should I Replace My Windows Before Selling?

By Get Clear Windows, Pella Windows & Doors

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ell-maintained homes often sell more quickly — and for a better price — than those left in disrepair, but how much time and effort should you invest? Savvy home sellers may only want to make home improvements that generate the greatest return on investment.

Common questions we often hear from homeowners about this include: “Is it worth replacing my home's windows before selling?” and “Do new windows increase home value?”

The answers vary depending on your situation and budget. Here are the pros and cons of replacing your windows before you sell your home.

Is it Worth Replacing Windows Before Selling a House?

Before you replace all of your windows ahead of a home sale, take a look at the most recent return on investment for this type of project. According to the National Association of Realtors 2020 cost vs. value report, homeowners who replaced their windows with new energy efficient windows saw an average return of over 72% of the project cost upon resale.

While this number may seem low, there are other reasons to replace your windows besides an improvement in the home's list or selling price. With so many of us spending more time at home, buyers are increasingly looking for “move-in ready” homes with custom finishes and high-end details.

Do New Windows Help Sell a House?

The second crucial question we need to answer is whether replacing windows increases the likelihood of a quick home sale. The answer may be... yes!

A 2021 survey by the National Association of Homebuilders found that 83% of home buyers considered ENERGY STAR windows to be essential or desirable.

Energy efficiency is an attractive quality because most buyers do not want to purchase an inefficient home that generates excessive monthly energy costs.

Many buyers also prefer not to go through the hassle of replacing home windows themselves. Older windows are less efficient and may have further problems that would result in a failed home inspection. Faced with a choice between a home with windows that need to be replaced and a home that costs slightly more but has new, efficient windows, many buyers prefer the turnkey solution.

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Besides increasing energy efficiency, new windows can also make a home look more modern and well-maintained. This can be a major selling point for buyers who do not want to do any renovations after they purchase a home. In sum, investing in new windows may make selling your home easier, although it is not a guarantee.

Take your time in choosing new windows for your home. Think critically about the proper window

Selecting the Best Window Style

New, energy-efficient windows can make a home much more attractive to buyers, so it is a decision you should consider carefully. While there is no guarantee for how much value new windows add to a house, many homeowners who replace their windows see the benefits when they go to sell.

Choosing replacement windows is both an art and a science.

Window replacements should fit the style of your home.

Selecting replacement windows that look awkward or out of place can actually detract from the value of your home. For example, installing modern vinyl windows in a traditional, colonial style home will probably give the house a confusing, even off-putting appearance that may drive buyers to look elsewhere.

style. Pay attention to the window material you choose for your replacement as well as the cost of the project.

Should You Replace Windows Before Selling a House?

What to Consider When Replacing Your Sliding Glass Door

By Renewal by Andersen Central PA Have you ever thought about replacing your sliding door with French doors? You might find this an attractive option if you’re thinking about refreshing your interior. Both door types offer great benefits for your home, but if you want to switch to swinging French doors, there are a few things you need to consider. Renewal by Andersen® of Central Pennsylvania, a local contractor for doors and replacement windows, shares what you need to know:

Material Types French patio doors are made from different frame materials depending on your preference. Vinyl is a low-maintenance material that offers good protection against air and moisture. Fiberglass is also a good choice as it can withstand extreme heat without warping, sagging or softening. But if you want a material that’s stronger than vinyl and has superior resistance to weather elements, we recommend our Fibrex® patio doors.

Fibrex is our proprietary composite material made from a combination of wood grains and polymers. It contains 40 percent reclaimed wood fiber by weight and is twice as strong as vinyl. Our Fibrex windows and doors are also more durable and reliable compared to traditional wood doors as they won’t crack or warp. They even offer better energy efficiency and sustainability!

Space Requirements Another factor to consider when choosing French patio doors is space. Since hinged French doors can be installed to swing inward or outward, they’ll need more space compared to swinging doors. That means furniture and objects need to be at a certain distance for the doors to open and close properly.

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What’’s Trending What

Indoor Entertainment Areas for the Whole Family

By Timber Haven Log Homes

W

hether you are entertaining friends, hosting family, or just relaxing with loved ones at the end of the day, incorporating modern entertainment options into your log, timber frame or hybrid home design will allow you to maximize your home’s potential. Here are some great interior design ideas to help you create welcoming indoor entertainment areas.

Dining and Meal Prep The kitchen is the heart of the home for most homeowners – it’s where family members congregate over a cup of coffee in the morning, grab a quick snack before heading outdoors, or where friends and family inevitably gravitate toward during parties and celebrations. A casual kitchen island with overhead task lighting and barstools encourages conversations with the chef while they’re whipping up meals. For more festive holiday dining and entertaining, a chandelier-illuminated formal dining area is a must.

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The Sound of Music Whether you are a musician or just enjoy listening to music, a dedicated space for music appreciation in your new log, timber frame or hybrid home will be welcomed by the whole family. For example, what pianist wouldn’t enjoy hitting the keys on their baby grand while surrounded by beautiful scenery from a bank of windows? Audiophile fans will enjoy having their own room to pick a tune on their guitar or listening to their favorite playlist in surround-sound.

Games, Games, Games A game room is the perfect entertainment area to enjoy everything from video games to billiards. The entire family will find something fun to do when you include a jukebox, billiard table, dart board or indoor hoops. While a pool table might be the center of attention, a state-of-the-art gaming system, audio system and large screen TV will be required tech for a man cave.

Cocktails and Mocktails Whether you are watching the game on the big screen with fellow sports fans or watching a favorite film on family movie night, a wet bar keeps all your beverages conveniently close at hand. With built-in cabinets, everything you need to mix and serve adult beverages is at your fingertips. An undercounter refrigerator stores mixers and keeps sodas and juice drinks handy for the kids, too. If sipping vintage grappa is your thing, a beautiful custom stone-fronted walk-in wine cooler is indispensable for keeping your collection stored properly.

Open Floor Plans Open floor plans are here to stay. They allow for easy traffic flow, the utilization of all indoor space, and create an airy, open, casual feel to a log home interior. Incorporating entertainment areas in open floor plans is easy – and allows you to fit comfortable seating, all your attractions, a stone fireplace and more all into the same room, making it attractive and welcoming for the whole family.

Log Home When you are designing your unique Timberhaven custom log home, be sure to add “indoor entertainment areas” to your must-have design list to ensure years of relaxing, engaging and indoor activities for family and friends.

CREATING THE PERFECT HABITAT FOR WINE Wine enthusiasts take proper storage very seriously. To discuss and ultimately address their requirements, knowledge of the basic guidelines for keeping bottles at their best could prove valuable. This primer will help you enter the winestorage conversation with confidence and tailor a solution to your client’s collection. Wine thrives in a carefully controlled environment. Four factors come into play:

Temperature

SHAPING A WINE-STORAGE SOLUTION

When it comes to storing wine, maintaining the right temperature is key. The target range is between 45 and 65°F, although the optimal temperature depends on the type of wine. Reds should be kept slightly chilled (between 58 and 65˚F); white wines call for a cooler climate (between 45 and 55˚F).

The first step in determining the best storage option is to gather information about your client’s collection.

Pertinent questions to ask include: • How large is your collection? When discussing bottlecapacity needs, be sure to allow for collection growth.

• What size and shape bottles do you collect? Consider any nonstandard bottles, such as magnums, as you explore storage racks or shelves.

• What is your annual wine expenditure? While both the serious and casual collector should protect their bottles, the storage stakes rise with the level of investment.

• For the wine connoisseur (or oenophile), dedicated storage is a must. A bona fide cellar isn’t the only option. Often, a refrigerated wine column makes the perfect choice. Sub-Zero offers a range of systems that safely store bottles; there is a unit to fit nearly every collection and space. To learn more about proper wine storage and superb solutions, visit your nearest ADU showroom.

Humidity The ideal humidity level falls around 70 percent. Extremely arid conditions can dry out the corks, allowing oxygen into the bottles. Damp air can damage the labels.

Light The sun’s UV rays can accelerate the aging process and impair wine. Direct sunlight will also fade labels over time.

Vibration Significant vibrations from mechanical equipment – such as a washing machine or stereo system – can disturb the sediments in wine and degrade its quality. Consider this risk as you locate the storage zone.

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What’’s Trending What

Carpet Isn’t Canceled!

By Touch of Color Harrisburg, PA You may or may not be surprised to know that carpet remains one of the top choices for flooring among consumers today.

With tons of styles, ease of install, and comfortability it makes sense why it is still a go-to product for homeowners. In this article we’ll cover what you need to know about the most cost-effective and innovative carpet products that are on-trend this year— and we might add, are most of all affordable!

Upcoming Trends We’re beginning to see a lot of color and pattern implementation in the interior design world. Berber carpets remain a popular choice since they offer varying textures and can be a bold design statement. With a wide variety of all kinds of colors available for carpet, you can easily select a product that appeals to your style. The color of carpet plays a big part in the way a room feels. Darker colors create an optical illusion that brings walls closer inward, which can make the right room feel very warm and cozy. If you want to feel you’ve expanded your space, opt for lighter and more neutral colors.

Designers have noted that consumers are opting for fun experimentation in their carpet choices. Playful geometric designs, florals, bright color palettes, and patterns such as the herringbone which can be achieved with carpet planks, are all extremely trendy in 2022. Of course, the beiges and grays will always remain in popular favor since neutrals across the board in homes and multi-family spaces will typically always be in demand.

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Notable also is the interest in products like carpet tiles and carpet planks, which we see a lot of in commercial spaces, but can also be an interesting choice when incorporated into the home. These products can add even more creative design elements and patterns.

Types of Carpet At Touch of Color, we pride ourselves on being trusted advisors and flooring experts. Not only do we provide topnotch customer service, we take the time to educate the consumer on the products they’re putting in their home. You can find resources like this blog and informational articles on our site. Below is an excerpt from one of our expert articles on how different carpets are manufactured:

Almost 75% of carpet today is made of nylon and, compared to the other fibers below, it performs the best overall.

Nylon is the leader in: appearance retention, fade and heat resistance, soil and stain resistance, and color and styling.

The highest performance nylon is Type 6.6, which has a tighter molecular construction, making the carpet more resistant to stain penetration.

The next most common material used in carpet manufacturing is polypropylene. Introduced in the late 1950s in Italy, polypropylene BCF has seen fast growth over the last twenty years, and today represents more than thirtyfive percent of the total fibers used in the carpet industry.

Berber, now considered a type of carpet construction, actually comes from the name of a group of North African sheepherders called the Berbers. The Berbers were known to produce very coarse wool, with characteristic color flecks in their yarns.

Although wool doesn’t stand up to abrasion and moisture as well as synthetics, it cleans well and is known to age gracefully. Wool is the most expensive carpet fiber, and represents less than one percent of the U.S. carpet market.

While polypropylene is not as resilient or resistant to abrasion as nylon, it is naturally stain and fade resistant. Its natural resistance to moisture means that it must be dyed before being extruded, resulting in a more limited range of color options. Polypropylene is most often used in loop pile carpet constructions.

The third type of material commonly used in carpet manufacturing is polyester. Polyester was introduced to the carpet industry in the mid 1960s, and has been well accepted for its bulkiness, color clarity, and good stain and fade resistance. While not as resilient as nylon, Polyester fiber carpet constructed with today’s new technologies can be a good performer.

The above three materials make up the majority of synthetic fibers. The other type of fiber used in carpet construction is staple fiber. While some synthetics are used in the creation of staple fibers, the original staple fiber used in the making of carpet is wool.

The wool used in today’s carpet comes primarily from New Zealand, Argentina, and the United Kingdom. Since wool is a natural fiber, it ranges in color from off-white to black, with many earthen tones between.

Care and Cleaning Knowing your price point and the look you are trying to achieve with your carpet will help you decide which is right for your home. Generally speaking, with the right amount of care your carpet should last a fairly long time. It is also wise to consider how much traffic your carpeted areas will generally see over their lifetime, and if you have kids or pets you may want to consider carpet products that will hold up to stains.

To extend the longevity of your carpet it is important to take proper care of the product and keep it clean.

To keep nylon carpet clean, regularly vacuuming will help remove dirt from the fibers of the carpet. A steam clean will also give it a deep cleaning, removing dirt trapped deep in continued on next page

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What’’s Trending What the pile. Nylon is generally stain resistant, so it won’t require too much effort to remove stains if accidents are cleaned up right away.

Polypropylene carpet is also stain resistant which makes cleaning easy. A routine vacuum and a deep steam clean will keep this carpet thriving in your home.

Wool carpet requires immediate attention to spills and accidents as it does not tolerate the kind of wear and tear nylon or poly will withstand.

Certain brands like Stainmaster are specifically manufactured to live up to their name and are popular for households prone to pet accidents and wear and tear of active kids. Not only is the product impervious to stains, there has also been a big shift in focusing on carpet that is hypoallergenic to common indoor allergies and irritants like pet dander.

Especially since the pandemic, the market has demanded high performance products with a focus on cleanliness and supporting the health of their family. One can find beautiful, stylish carpet products that are also made sustainably and eco-friendly, which is another component top of mind of consumers today.

What About Rugs?

Area rugs are extremely popular on the market. The rise of e-commerce shopping has contributed to their popularity since it is now easier than ever to shop for your home from your phone. Area rugs can dress up nearly any room in the home and make it easy to change up a decor scheme all while adding plush comfort to the existing floor. They come in a massive variety of sizes, patterns, colors, thickness, and pricing. There are even area rug products on the market that are machine washable.

Area rugs can play up any interior design style. Whether you’re into the modern farmhouse trend, boho, vintage, maximalism, minimalism, or mid-century modern design, there will be an area rug out there that complements your scheme. Mid-century modern, which remains a highly popular style today, is arguably the birth era for carpet in the modern American home.

Mid-century modern refers to the interior design elements and styles that began in the middle of the 20th century, right as carpet manufacturing really started to boom in the industry. Colors, varying textures, and geometric patterned carpet all fall under what most designers could consider “mid-century modern carpet.”

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Carpet in the Home versus the Office

Where to Start with Your Carpet Project

These days, those two might be one in the same. As more people across the nation began working remotely as a result of the pandemic, there had been a shift in demand for creating comfortable and serene home offices. Floor Covering Weekly reported, “While the COVID-19 pandemic had several terrible consequences, home renovation projects boomed as more people decided to spruce up their lockeddown spaces. Flooring was a significant component of these projects and virtually every category saw sales gains. This included carpet — a category that had not grown nearly as quickly as some of the other flooring segments in recent years.”

If you’re interested in putting new carpet in your home it’s best to ask yourself what you’re looking to achieve to determine which product is best for your family.

With the hope that the world will “go back to normal” and businesses have started opening their office doors again, commercial projects for office renovations picked up during the lockdown.

Whatever your goals are, it’s best to shop with some samples and seek the advice of our experts. You will want to begin with a free in-home estimate to get an accurate depiction of the project scope and the measurements. From there, you can shop the hottest styles of carpet that have the exact color, softness, texture, and price point for your home!

The most popular carpet products for commercial spaces are generally carpet tiles and carpet planks. Designers focus heavily on crafting a sensory experience in both residential and commercial spaces. Floor Trends notes, “These days, when it comes to color, there are many more similarities than there are differences in what’s trending throughout regions,” says West. “Across the board, blue is making its presence known as the new neutral; green has taken on a stronger botanical presence; neutrals are still the bed stone of commercial color influence with an emphasis on material you can feel and experience like the building blocks of brick and stone; and the desire for calm in a busy world has given rise to whites becoming ever more impactful as a color.”

Are you looking to update old flooring that is no longer comfortable or stylish?

Do you require a carpet product to hold up to heavy duty wear and tear from kids and pets?

Are you looking for fun designs and texture, something unique outside the neutral beiges and grays?

Whether you’re still working from home or are back in the office, in one way or another you have probably witnessed the change in consumer trends across the interior design industry as a response to more indoor dwelling during COVID-19.

HarrisburgBuilders.com

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Designing a Multi-Level Swimming Pool

By Aqua Vision Pools

I

f you’re ready to take your backyard space to the next level, then we have some helpful advice to share! In fact, one of the best answers was hiding right there in our last sentence – levels. That’s right, incorporating a variety of levels into your swimming pool area, by way of landscaping and hardscaping, can greatly enhance the way your backyard space looks and functions.

Using levels as a design feature can be a creative way to make your space look bigger, host more people, and create intimate gathering spaces that can also take a large space and make it more functional. Keep reading for our expert advice on using levels within your pool and hardscaping to create a dream backyard space that is uniquely your own.

But first…what are we really talking about?

The most obvious (and easier) way to add levels to your pool area is through hardscaping and landscaping surrounding your pool. Your pool can be freeform or geometric in shape, and through creative landscaping, you can create lounging and entertaining spaces that complement and maximize the area. On the more adventurous end of the spectrum, you can also custom design a pool that uses levels, like the one featured in this blog post. Using an infinity edge, and partially exposed sides covered in stone, this pool boasts two unique swimmable areas that really deliver the “wow” factor.

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The bottom line is a multi-level swimming pool space can be whatever you want it to be! Consider your existing space, how you plan to use it, and your budget, and then seek expert advice for crafting a creative space!

Advantages Works with your landscape. For yards that are anything but a perfect square, and even those that are, using levels in your pool area allows you to work with the curves and slopes and not against them.

More individual areas serve different purposes. Instead of one big space that can feel too open, uninteresting, or leave a lot of unused “corners,” having levels to define smaller and more intimate areas is a huge benefit.

Better flow and functionality. Using curves and levels to define spaces around your pool area creates a natural pathway for guests to follow. You can establish a clear path to the food area, bathroom, or pool entrance. When you’re hosting groups, big or small, this can be a huge benefit!

Creative ways to use furniture and hardscaping. A big open area can actually be more intimidating to furnish with plants and furniture. Rather, a pool area that curves, creates nooks, and drops down to different levels provides many, smaller opportunities to define each space as its own.

It looks cool! Do you really need a better reason to embrace a multi-level swimming pool space? Your space will look unique and interesting from various angles. From the time guests first see the space to as they move through it, they will get to experience your backyard and pool in many unique ways.

Challenges May increase some costs. Adding levels to a backyard space isn’t usually the more efficient option. They often require more time, labor, and materials to produce so just keep this in mind when dreaming up your multi-level space.

Needs to work with your existing area. The best outdoor spaces give a nod to what nature originally created. Your multi-level pool area and hardscaping should consider what’s already there, which may mean you’re limited in some ways.

Small areas can still pose a challenge. Although levels can often create more usable space within a small area, exceptionally intimate backyards still can’t be magically transformed through levels alone. Keep your expectations in check, and embrace the possibilities that can take place!

How to get started?

Are you intrigued by the concept of a multi-level swimming pool area? Whether this includes a partially or fully exposed pool, multiple levels within a pool, or simply hardscaping that offers different heights, incorporating levels into your backyard design can enhance aesthetics and function!

To get started, first begin at the drawing board. Really take time to understand your backyard as it currently is and then look to expert advice for what it can become. Involve a professional and experienced custom pool company, like Aquavisions, early in the conversation – as well as a respected landscaper/hardscaper. Multi-level pool areas work best when everything and everyone works together from start to finish!

Confidence for Tomorrow.

Find it with a Domani Wealth Advisor.

Angie Stephenson, CFP®, CPA/PFS angie.stephenson@domaniwealth.com

Ken Eshleman CFP® ken.eshleman@domaniwealth.com

855.855.5455 domaniwealth.com

Domani Wealth, LLC (“Domani”) is an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Domani and its representatives may only transact business in states where they are appropriately notice-filed and registered, respectively, or exempt from such requirements. For information pertaining to the registration status of Domani, please contact the SEC or the state securities regulators for those states in which Domani maintains a notice-filing.

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