Loveland Home + Garden 2021

Loveland

HOME + GARDEN Enhancing Your Outdoor Spaces Bring the Heat Back to Your Kitchen Landscaping for Pollinators

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Loveland

HOME + GARDEN

TABLE OF CONTENTS

BRING THE HEAT—Kitchen Trends for 2021 ............22

Repair, Don’t Replace....................................................8

Loveland Youth Gardeners

Tips for achieving the top 2021 home trend: WARM INTERIOR DESIGN .........................................10 Concrete Repair to Get Back On Level Footing .......12 IN HOT WATER: Tankless Versus Traditional Water Heaters ................13 Comfortable Outdoor Spaces Designed with Indoor Flare ........................................14 Safety first: Tips for PET-PROOFING YOUR HOME ...................................18

Celebrates 25 years!....................................................24 THE RIGHT TOOLS For The Job................................26 Improving the Air You Breathe ...................................28 ROOF DAMAGE 101...................................................30 What Buyers Are Looking for in a NEW HOME IN 2021............................................32 How to Prepare for a Move of Any Size.....................33

Home & Garden is an advertising feature published by the Reporter-Herald.

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HOME AND GARDEN 5

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HOME AND GARDEN 7

REPAIR, DON’T REPLACE life. “There’s a big benefit and a built in value to the customer to get something repaired rather than replaced… if it has a cord and you can carry it, we can fix it. We save a lot of money for our customers when we repair for Miracle Method can refinish your existing bath surfaces without them. If we can’t replacing fixtures. (Tim Seibert/Home +Garden) repair it, we give

By Katie Feindel for Home + Garden a trade-in value that the customer can Keeping up a home can be challenguse towards a new in-store purchase. ing. Just like human bodies and cars, We refurbish our trade-ins and try home appliances, bathrooms and to keep them out of landfills,” Bell the like inevitably, over time, suffer explains. from wear and tear and break down.

So, why not protect the investments you have made and get them repaired rather than replaced? According to the experts who work in the field of refurbishment, it is better for the environment and your pocketbook in the long run to repair those appliances, floors, sinks, tubs—and so much more! You want to buy new furniture? Consider instead bringing out some new paint or reupholstering that beloved couch.

Spruce up the old and make it like new!

At More Than Vacuums, Kirk Bell is proud to offer alternatives to putting used appliances in landfills. With his team of experts, your used and broken appliances can be brought back to 8 HOME AND GARDEN

Clearly, there are proven benefits to preserving your appliances and not spending a ton of money replacing what can affordably be repaired.

Miracle Method is another choice for upgrading and refurbishing. A part of the home that often gets remodeled is the bathroom. The cost can be quite high, along with the inconvenience.

The good news? There are long-proven methods to restore and refurbish your bathroom without all the hassle.

Shalin Patel of Miracle Method promises that their “bathroom refinish” is not a “cheap” alternative to a remodel or an inferior quick-fix. They use methods and treatments that have ReporterHerald.com

proven to restore and last for the years to come. The options are endless.

Again, why throw out a perfectly good quality, yet dated, sink or tub when Miracle Method can restore it to likenew condition in a more contemporary finish?

Shalin describes the Miracle Method’s process this way, “We repair and refinish rather than demolish and replace.

If there are damages to the surfaces, we can transform the surface and make it like new. We come to you.

It’s a two-day process usually and it’s just us, no other contractors. We have many finishes to offer, from white to granites and more. We also can do fiberglass and acrylic finishes. When thinking of replacing, first think of refinishing, salvage what you have.

It’s good for the environment. This is an industrial type job which will last decades. It’s like a custom job at an auto body shop; it’s all about the care and quality we put into it.”

Experts like those at More Than Vacuums and Miracle Method are here to make your life easier. Ask them about the alternatives to costly replacement when repair and refurbishment are the better and less costly options.

Your inquiry could lead to saving a lot of money and avoiding the high cost of replacement and the hassle of remodeling.

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HOME AND GARDEN 9

Tips for achieving the top 2021 home trend:

WARM INTERIOR DESIGN

(BPT) - 2021 is poised to be a transition year for home design. Expect some of the minimalistic trends of the past to be replaced with more comfort, warmth and positivity.

“Darker colors, natural textiles - like wood, and soft lighting are great ways to make a room feel warm and inviting,” says Jen Meska, director of merchandising at LL Flooring. “Also, decorate with items and patterns that bring you joy to add a sense of your personality and unique style.”

To enjoy this growing trend, LL Flooring offers this advice:

Determine color schemes

For many years, cool colors have dominated home design. White kitchens, gray walls and black countertops were top choices. People have tired of these styles and are seeking to add warm colors and materials in their home. Colors with yellow undertones are in high demand, from wall paint to furniture and beyond. Warm colors are being used in accent pillows and throw blankets, including soft yellow and rich cinnamon. Brass and bronze are popular in hardware and accessories, and mixed metals are featured to add visual interest.

Update flooring

Because organic materials typically convey warmth, hardwood floors are a worthwhile investment. The visually interesting wood grains can be enhanced with any color stain, although warm hues are trending. The rich browns in Bellawood Manhattan Chevron Engineered Hardwood is a great example, as featured in this year’s HGTV Dream Home. Not only do hardwood floors like this add a warm element, but they also feel warmer underfoot than tile and laminate flooring.

Analyze lighting

Light can add to or detract from the feeling of warmth in any space. Natural light sources are a plus, so make sure to open shades to illuminate spaces. Think about how overhead, task and accent lighting can best work together in areas. Lamps, wall sconces and picture wall lights are easy to install and instantly add glow to a room. Finally, when looking at lights, consider the type of bulbs you use and opt for options that project warmer light rather than those with cooler light tones.

Use mirrors strategically Mirrors serve multiple purposes in a room: They add style, visually expand the space and reflect light. Designers often strategically place a mirror to bounce natural light or reflect the exterior landscape, helping bring the feeling of the outdoors inside in a subtle yet meaningful way. A mirror can further add to the warmth of a space depending on the frame material. Some popular options for frames include wood, resin or gold-hued metals. If you have an old mirror you want to revive, consider painting the frame in an appropriate accent color and you’ll breathe new life into an existing piece.

Add plants and foliage A simple way to add life into your home is adding plants. Adding foliage brings natural life to any room. If you’re not a green thumb, consider low-maintenance snake plant, spider plant or succulents. If you love the look of plants but just don’t want to deal with the real things, shop for faux alternatives that closely mimic their real counterparts. You might be surprised how realistic they appear.

To learn more about top trends for 2021 and how to bring them into your home, visit LL Style llflooring.com/inspiration.

Making upgrades is tempting, but when you just don’t have the time (or skill) to DIY, Mr. Handyman of Loveland and Fort Collins is here to help. With a wide range of services from floor installation and repair to painting to adding custom shelving and bookcases, Mr. Handyman has the time when you don’t.

MR. HANDYMAN OF LOVELAND AND FORT COLLINS Call (970) 616-6487 or visit mrhandyman.com/loveland-fortcollins/ for more information or to schedule service.

Floors are the foundation of any room, providing opportunity to update the space.

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HOME AND GARDEN 11

CONCRETE REPAIR To Get Back On Level Footing

A deeper dive into “why” is available on Sprague’s website: fixmyconcrete.com. For example, did you know that when your home was built, the movement of soil around the building site resulted in poor compaction? Over time, this can cause voids to form and slabs to settle.

Cracks in concrete can be fixed, restoring your driveway or sidewalk. (Shutterstock)

And during dry or drought conditions, the soil under your concrete will dry out and shrink, creating voids. So when rains return, the water has an even easier pathway under the slab due to cracks and crevices left over from the dry period.

Darren Thornberry for Home + Garden

If you keep tripping over the same spot on a sinking sidewalk, this article is for you! Surprisingly, trip hazard calls often come from owners of newer homes. Or perhaps you’ve got a big crack in the driveway or patio, a cracked pool deck, or a sunken stoop. Whatever has gone wrong with the concrete, Sprague Structural Solutions has innovative concrete repair solutions to fix the concrete problems and restore curb appeal. Sprague can raise your sinking sidewalk and prevent it from sinking further. Once they are finished lifting your sidewalk or driveway with PolyLevel®, you can drive on it 15 minutes later!

A crack on the surface of your driveway or sidewalk may indicate that there’s a void beneath the slab, explains Sprague’s office manager Jessica Matthews. “Sometimes the slabs will sink and not crack. You’ll notice visible sinking, unlevel slabs, maybe just one corner with a void under it.”

12 HOME AND GARDEN

Street creep pushes against concrete, too, causing it to buckle. This is often noticeable in cul-de-sacs. The street’s always growing and expanding and it will take the path of least resistance to get some breathing room. Sprague uses CompressionGuard to combat this problem (more on website).

It’s easier than you might think for water to seep into a concrete crack and affect what’s underneath. Let’s say, for example, that a huge snowstorm dumped several inches on your driveway and you didn’t shovel it. Well, that concrete is porous, so you might have a problem. “Water that’s on the slab for weeks is just being absorbed, melting, going beneath the slab,” says Matthews. ”Even if there’s no cracking, water could get into the foundation, push against walls, and erode the material there.”

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Whatever the reason you’re seeing sinking or cracked concrete, the earlier you catch a problem, the more affordable it will be to fix.

Sprague Structural Solutions’ highly trained crew specializes in concrete repair and protection. They have the expertise and equipment to quickly raise and level many types of slab-on-grade concrete. And Sprague uses SealantPro to seal concrete, which penetrates a quarter-inch into concrete and doesn’t allow the concrete to absorb water. It’s a permanent solution to spalling or pitting that requires no annual application.

For an on-site inspection and free estimate, call Sprague Structural Solutions today at 970.214.2011 or go online to fixmyconcrete.com. The company’s service area includes southeastern Wyoming, northern Colorado, and Nebraska.

March 28, 2021

IN HOT WATER

Tankless Versus Traditional Water Heaters

By Pam Moore for Home + Garden

If you’re a homeowner with a water heater replacement on the horizon, you’re probably wondering whether to go with a traditional or a tankless model. And if you’re like most homeowners, water heater shopping doesn’t bring you quite the same thrill as a trip to the mall or filling up your shopping cart at your favorite website. A lack of knowledge can make the process even less appealing.

But the water heater buying process doesn’t have to be intimidating or complicated. We talked to local experts to find out what you need to know before you buy.

According to Josh Jones, owner of Jones Excavating and Plumbing in Berthoud, the first step is gaining an understanding of the basics. Tankless water heaters, also known as demandtype heaters, only heat water as needed, and can be powered either by gas or electricity. A traditional tank style, on the other hand, uses gas or electricity to heat and store water in the tank, which limits hot water availability. It March 28, 2021

essentially “acts as a storage unit,” explains Jones, “using heating elements or burners to heat cold water.”

dition to being less expensive to install

Tankless water heaters are a great choice for single-family homes, says Jones. They’re compact, have a longer life span, and because they aren’t constantly heating stored water, they help you save on utilities. They’re also user-friendly. According to Jones, “Hot water continues flowing as long as needed and shuts off as soon as hot water taps are closed.”

Reasons to steer away from the tank-

and repair, they also ensure that hot water is always available.

style include their shorter lifespan, higher energy costs, and their large size. Also, because they can hold a lot of water, there’s exists the potential for all that water to flood your home in the event of a system failure.

Jones suggests considering a few vital factors to determine which style

But tankless models aren’t without their downsides. Because of their limited ability to provide continuous hot water, Jones says they’re not the best choice for homes or businesses that simultaneously require large quantities of hot water in different locations.

And although they’re energy-efficient, installation and maintenance costs are higher.

matches your needs: personal prefer-

Tank-style water heaters are better suited for places where a large quantity of hot water is needed simultaneously in different locations, says Jones. In ad-

ing.com/ or check out George T.

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ence, local utilities, how much hot water you need, and the warranty and value of the models you’re considering.

To connect with a Northern Colorado professional for your water heater needs, visit Jones Excavating and Plumbing, voted number one plumber in Loveland, at jonesexcavatingplumbSanders Company, Colorado’s largest independent distributor of plumbing and heating supplies at gtsanders.com.

HOME AND GARDEN 13

COMFORTABLE

Outdoor Spaces Designed with Indoor

FLARE

By Elise Oberliesen for Home + Garden

Creating a cozy outdoor space with all the comforts of indoor living can give new meaning to backyard bliss. Enhancing outdoor space is a strong trend that doesn’t appear to have an expiration date anytime soon. That’s partly out of need to connect with nature—and being stuck at home.

Whether you’re relaxing with a book or entertaining guests, adding aesthetics to the backyard creates an inviting vibe for everyone.

So it makes sense to invest in outdoor improvements given the recent shift that has homeowners spending more time at home entertaining friends and family.

Otto Engel, owner of Innovation Forge, in Berthoud, has experienced a surge of customers requesting outdoor enhancements to beautify their backyard spaces. Forging projects range from metal garden gates and decorative handrails to outdoor fireplaces with hyper realistic branch-like metal logs.

From German designer Mathias Hoffman, the Tobago collection from Lloyd Flanders sets the standard for excellence in alternative deep-seated design. (Courtesy Outpost Sunsport)

er’s interior and exterior living space and incorporates them into finished works of art. Each project reflects the homeowner and unique aspects of their home.

“The realistic logs soak up the heat and make propane fire pits work better outside,” he said. “The logs radiate heat at lower levels where people are seated.”

Engel recently received an order to forge metal garden gates for a couple who’s keen on embellishing their picturesque backyard—a private oasis where they entertain guests.

He described the backyard as being centered around a circular patio with progressive rings – and lush greenery that meanders along the paths. With its labyrinth look and feel, this gorgeous outdoor escape will be a crowd pleaser once the metal gate installations are complete.

What’s Engel’s superpower? He takes design elements from the homeown-

Inspiration for the gate design came from the intricate gothic stonework

14 HOME AND GARDEN

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found in window frames of the home, Engel said. Once complete, these one-of-a-kind iron gates will tantalize the eye with “geometric shapes, scrollwork and pointed gothic arches.” All with striking resemblance to the original stonework.

Decorative gates like these are designed to enhance ambiance and boost security.

Outdoor furnishings add style and comfort Randy Morgan, owner of Outpost Sunsport in Fort Collins has 49 years experience running the ski and snowboard equipment store—and 26 years suppling of both residential and commercial outdoor furniture to Colorado homes and businesses.

March 28, 2021

“We supplied all the furniture at Mariana Butte Golf Course, in Loveland, and just delivered new furniture to Odell Brewery for their new winery to open this Spring,” Morgan said.

The Patio Renaissance Del Mar Collection features curved design,

If it’s time to in a wicker weave. Above: OW Lee gas fire pit. (Courtesy Outpost update your outdoor Sunsport) furniture, here’s some good news. Consumsturdy to sustain weather conditions ers have far more choices now than in the high plains with the wind and ever before. Finding high quality stylUV.” ish designs has vastly improved—as Morgan recalled those chintzy folding Granted, outdoor furniture can be patio chairs with nylon webbing from a small investment. But when it’s circa 1970? properly maintained, as in bringing it indoors during winters, Morgan said it can last about 15 years.

“Outdoor fabrics today are so much better than they used to be,” he said.

“I leave my patio furniture out until “The quality and materials must be

about Christmas because it gives another outdoor space during the holidays,” he said, adding that cushions must come indoors when it snows.

When Colorado reaches triple digits during the scorching summer months, hunkering down inside with chilled air conditioning may be your best bet during the day. That is, until evening rolls around and the sun hits the

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HOME AND GARDEN 15

horizon. That’s when Colorado’s cool air drops in just in time to reset your soul.

No matter what time of day you enjoy the backyard space, having appropriate shade can make it feel like an escape where you can wash away the day’s stress.

“Umbrellas create shade during the day and it give you more of an indoor feel even when you’re outdoors,” Morgan said. “And they’re a great temperature regulator.”

Today’s umbrellas come with all kinds of accoutrements—from lights and

Custom railing and metal work add a touch of elegance and personality to any home exterior. (Courtesy Innovation Forge.)

Landscaping adds the finishing touch

heaters to high-end cantilever designs that conjure up images of expensive beach resorts. All of which add ambiance in the backyard from dawn to dusk.

Need landscaping materials to create a dreamy backyard haven? Stop by Crystal Landscape Supply, in Loveland where you will find cobblestone, flagstone, and other hardscapes that beautify your backyard. Check out their large assortment of decorative rocks, mulch and soil too.

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www.maceq.com 2116 West 1st St., Loveland • 970-593-9421 715 S. Main St., Longmont • 720-204-6335 16 HOME AND GARDEN

SALES • PARTS • SERVICE Family Owned & Operated

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126 South Cleveland, Loveland CO 80537

HOME AND GARDEN 17

SAFETY FIRST:

Tips for pet-proofing your home

(BPT) - Welcoming a four-legged friend into your family is an exciting time for everyone, but puppies, kittens, dogs and cats can easily find themselves in serious trouble while exploring their new surroundings. It is important to remember that pets are naturally curious and explore their worlds with their mouths, so they will want to interact with or consume anything left out at their level. Because of this, your home is filled with potential risks, some obvious and others you might not expect. The good news is there are simple steps you can take to help keep your new pet safe.

Purina behavior scientist Dr. Ragen T.S. McGowan offers these timely 18 HOME AND GARDEN

tips to help pet-proof your home and give you peace of mind that it is a safe place for your dog or cat to live and thrive.

HOW TO KEEP YOUR NEW PET SAFE 1. Put away the toxins Many common household items are toxic for pets. Cleaning supplies, detergent, bleach, fertilizer, pest or rodent bait traps and paint can all cause serious harm if ingested. McGowan says, “Make sure to always store toxic items in a place where your pet cannot access them, either in a locked cabinet ReporterHerald.com

or on high shelves out of their reach.

Even if you are vigilant about keeping these items out of reach, sometimes accidents happen. It is good to have the number for the Animal Poison Control Center handy or even saved in your phone, just in case: (888) 4264435.”

2. Secure small hardware Pets are attracted to small items that they can mouth, chew or bat around in play. In the home, small hardware items - from buttons, pins, batteries and magnets, to nails, staples, tacks and paper clips - may look appealing to pets, but could cause serious cuts or even damage internal organs if swallowed. “Before your new friend comes March 28, 2021

home, do a sweep to ensure small hardware items, batteries and magnets are securely stored or kept out of reach,” shares McGowan. “This means getting down to their level and retrieving any items that may have fallen under or behind the furniture. Tacks, pins and magnets should also be moved up from low hanging bulletin boards or the front of the refrigerator, where they could attract the attention of cats, especially.”

3. Beware of food bags ... and practice proper food storage

Almost every one of us is guilty of leaving a bag of chips or box of cereal open on the couch or kitchen table.

This may seem harmless, but many food bags, including for pet food, are made from a strong material that helps keep food fresh. A curious pet can get stuck if it goes looking in the bag for leftover crumbs or an early dinner.

“Food packaging can be quite attractive to pets. Not only does it smell like food, but it makes a crinkling noise that pets associate with food, treats or play,” shares McGowan. “Make sure to store food or treat bags up high out of your pet’s reach, or inside cabinets or closets. We also recommend rolling the pet food bag closed and storing the entire item in a resealable hard container, so you can keep the label information handy,” advises McGowan.

“A pet of any age, size or strength can quickly find themselves in a troubling, and potentially heartbreaking, situation when left unattended with a food bag. By using resealable containers, you limit the risk - and, as a bonus, your food will remain fresh.” Similarly, remember to cut empty bags along the entire top, bottom and down at least one side before disposal, in case your curious pet rummages through the trash.

4. Conceal electronics

Electronics are ubiquitous in most homes, but the many wires and cords they come with can look like a fun toy to your pet. To keep your pet from chewing them or getting tangled, bundle loose cords behind furniture and store extra chargers and cables in a place that cannot be reached or opened with a paw or nose. For cords that must remain visible, McGowan suggests camouflaging them with cable-coverings or tape, so they are less attractive to your pet. “It is also a good practice to store remote controls and video game controllers in a bin or a drawer where your pet does not have access to them,” she adds. “These items often smell like food or lotions from our fingers which can attract pets to chew on them, but their electrical components and batteries are harmful if consumed.”

CUSTOM & UNIQUE Innovation Forge LLC is a local blacksmith studio producing high quality and innovative designs from hot forged metals.

We specialize in creating forged metal objects that are custom fit to your needs, location, and wildest ideas. Each piece has a unique feel and look but always performs its task.

INNOVATION FORGE LLC 1521 1st Street, Berthoud 970-215-4666 InnovationForgeLLC.com

March 28, 2021

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HOME AND GARDEN 19

5. Keep dangerous ingredients out of reach In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people are making more meals at home, including experimenting with new recipes. It’s important to remember that some common ingredients can be harmful to your pets.

“Before you make your grocery list, review recipes against a list of ingredients that could be toxic for dogs and cats,” counsels McGowan. “Chocolate is well known, but you’ll also want to avoid grapes, raisins and certain spices.

Xylitol, a sugar alternative found in everything from cake mixes to yogurt, peanut butter and chewing gum, is another toxic ingredient.” Best practice is to keep all food and ingredients stored in cupboards, pantries, drawers or on high shelves out of reach of your pet.

We all want to make the most of life with our new furry companions, and

by following the above tips, we can do so safely. We also encourage you to have your veterinarian’s contact information easily accessible, so you are ready in case of trouble.

As you prepare to start life with your new pet on the right paw, you can read more tips from McGowan and other Purina experts at purina.com/articles.

No matter how well you doggy-proof your home, pets still need to play and their boredom can quickly turn into destruction. A little socialization for your furry family member can go a long way toward depleting excess energy and decreasing unwanted behaviors—that’s where Camp Bow Wow comes in. Let your precious pet get out to play — indoors or outdoors—and keep an eye on them through cameras you can view from your smartphone. Your pup will be happier and you will too.

CAMP BOW WOW—1227 Des Moines Ave., Loveland Call (970) 534-3323 or visit campbowwow.com/loveland/ to make a reservation

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HOME AND GARDEN 21

BRING THE HEAT Kitchen Trends for 2021

By Emily Baudot for Home + Garden

March 2021 marks a full year of intensive lifestyle changes. We’re doing a lot more at home—and that goes for cooking and eating too. The look and usability of the kitchen feels suddenly more meaningful.

The trouble is, the last few years have felt like the wild designer west.

Everything seems fair game if it’s done correctly.

Bold colors replace sterile white cabinets breathing life into the heart of the home. ( Shutterstock)

It’s hard to choose when every option feels acceptable. But renovation season is just around the corner, so folks need to make decisions fast. To help out, we’ve interviewed local experts and researched what the next decade’s preferred kitchen trends will be.

And there’s good news: an upgraded kitchen might only be a few choices away.

Theme and Floorplan

The kitchens from the last two decades were all about genre. For instance, a rustic kitchen wasn’t just old-fashioned.

It followed a particular genre of oldfashioned like “Venetian” or “American Farmhouse.”

But everything from the walls to the 22 HOME AND GARDEN

cookware had to follow the theme, which sometimes left the space looking cheesy or overdone.

Other homes featured tamer kitchens, with neutral granite and wood grain to match the living room in an open floor plan. But those “great rooms” aren’t universally popular. Some homeowners prefer separated rooms, both for privacy and to treat each space in the home with a purpose.

The trick with today’s fashionable kitchens? Ignore generic themes and give homeowners the chance to personalize.

Some swing modern and glamorous, while others focus on calm, neo-traditional spaces. Even vintage-distressed statement appliances have found an audience.

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Multi-tasking appliances like this one, complete with convection and air-fryer capabilities, are trending in the modern kitchen. (Frigidaire)

The only hard rule is this: if a homeowner can conceive it, they’re encouraged to build it out.

Specialty Colors

For most of the last two decades, most kitchens played it so safe they looked like operating rooms. Cabinets were white or polished to show off their natural color and wood grain. At the time, it looked clean and classy. But now, kitchens from that era can look medicinal or musty.

March 28, 2021

Mixing styles, like rustic fixtures and cabinets with elegant quartz surfaces and glossy white tile brings a little personality into this kitchen. ( Shutterstock)

French Door refrigerators, like this one with an exterior drawer, allow for greater storage space and more options.

(Whirlpool)

spoke with her about appliances. She owns J. Day’s Appliance & Mattress, a retailer and appliance service provider in Loveland, so she knows her kitchen equipment inside and out.

Amber Smith, a Cabinet, Window and Door expert at Bloedorn Lumber Company, described current trends as, literally, “whatever people want in their homes.” It’s safe to assume there are about as many trendy options as there are people looking to renovate.

a lot of stuff to store at once and the many configurations of French Door refrigerators fill that need. “There’s a lot more organization options in a French Door refrigerator,” Day said.

“Everybody likes different things,” Day explained, “so [homeowners] might choose different manufacturers or different design elements” in the same kitchen.

All that said, if a bold color choice isn’t quite for you, don’t worry. An offnatural wood stain or styles like cerused wood are lovely alternatives. They can show off a touch of personality without dominating the whole space.

Knowing your lifestyle comes in handy here. Some brands, like KitchenAid, offer ranges with dual-fuel and convection options. The most recent Frigidaire ovens can even include the trendy and popular air-fryer to help you avoid added fat (and mess) and still get that crisp-fried finish.

Even dishwashers are optimized to help you spend less time in clean-up. Maytag offers a filtration system that allows you to skip the rinse, and Whirlpool maximizes space with a third rack, allowing you to get more out of a single load.

Fortunately, a bold coat of color fixes a lot of those boring issues. Modern designers love updating plain cabinets to look cheerful, edgy or inviting.

Lifestyle Convenience Convenience is the watch-word for upto-date kitchens. After all, if we can’t use our kitchens, what’s the point in having them?

What a homeowner chooses for their kitchen is primarily up to their lifestyle.

Kathy Day suggested as much when we March 28, 2021

And most brands now offer smart ovens that allow you to connect through your device to preheat, set temperatures and timers, save custom cooking instructions and more.

More practical considerations also matter. Passionate home chefs might have ReporterHerald.com

How To Get Started There are tons of options out there— many more than we could possibly cover here.

If you’re overwhelmed, the best thing to do is contact local remodeling professionals. Local renovation experts will know just the right changes to make to bring your kitchen into the new decade.

And remember, the thing that matters most is that you like your kitchen. If your preferred style doesn’t match the current aesthetic, that’s okay, too.

HOME AND GARDEN 23

Loveland Youth Gardeners

CELEBRATES 25 YEARS! is to help youth blossom as individuals and grow in their relationships with people and the Earth.

Summer Youth Programs at the farm for ages 10 to 18

Last year was definitely a challenge for LYG, but they are back and ready to celebrate their anniversary with lots of fun events and programs!

June 19 The Loveland Garden Tour

July 31

In this historic year, LYG will be opening a brand-new farm located at 2500 E 1st Street in Loveland. The ribbon This summer marks the 25th anniversary for the Loveland Youth Gardeners (LYG), a 501c3 nonprofit organization that has been helping youth facing barriers to learn new skills. Their vision

June through August

The Urban Homestead Tour To learn more about what LYG offers, to get involved or become a sponsor

cutting and 25th anniversary ceremony

visit LovelandYouthGardeners.org or

is tentatively scheduled for August 14.

contact Executive Director, Jessica Morgan at 970-579-0828.

There are also several additional exciting upcoming events including:

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HOME AND GARDEN 25

THE RIGHT TOOLS FOR THE JOB

By Jessica Benes for Home + Garden

T

his year looks a little different as companies like Mac Equipment, Inc., prepare for the Spring/Summer season of lawn mowing but customers will still have plenty of units to choose from as they find the best lawn mower to suit their yards.

Manufacturers were shut down for a time during the pandemic and are not at full capacity, which means that companies like Toro and Honda are sending limited quantities of snow blowers and lawn mowers to retail stores.

“So far everything is looking good for lawn mowers,” said Jason Land, sales manager with Mac Equipment in Loveland. “They don’t know what the demand is going to look like throughout the nation so they are releasing so many mowers every two to three weeks.” Usually, the family-owned company would place an order for the entire summer season, based on their sales numbers from past years.

Land and his sales team like to meet with the customer to find out what they need, and which mower would best suit the situation. They work a lot with Honda and Toro because of those companies’ track records of great customer service and warranties to back up their products.

For postage-sized lawns, Land often looks at the Honda first because of its reliable engine. The price is around the $399 range, which is more cost-effective for that smaller lawn. It will have a 26 HOME AND GARDEN

21-inch cut width. The sales team helps the customer get the mower set up with oil and fuel.

“It’s pretty important to customers to

For a family-sized lawn, Land said there are units in both Toro and Honda that would do a great job. The price range will be around $599 for both units. One of the Toro products has a twin blade with four cutting surfaces that is nice for bigger yard and thicker lawns. The blade tends to make a bigger cut. The Toro also has a great drive system that is helpful for middle or older ages. As the person walks, the mower adjusts to your speed.

Or customers can move on up to a rid-

Again, Land likes to talk to the customer to find out individual needs. If a lawn has large trees that will produce a lot of leaves, the needs of the mower will differ. There are mowers with better bagging systems, meaning they suck in the grass and leaves more efficiently.

“As we ask questions, get to know the yard, we can pinpoint the better unit,” Land said.

not have to scrape grass out,” Land said.

ing mower. Mac Equipment sells riders like Hustler or Spartan that will be in the $2,000-$4,000 range.

Land said that his team recommends cleaning the deck of the mower after every mow, especially in the spring when it is wet and muddy. Once that grass dries, it can be like chiseling concrete to clean it out. The cut of the grass will also reduce if the deck is too clogged up with dry grasses, and take away from the suction of the grass into the bag.

He also recommends starting off a new season with a good fertilizer to have a nice, thick lawn. They sell a fertilizer at Mac Equipment that was created in-house and blended specifically for Northern Colorado clay soil. “It’s an

If we’re looking at a huge yard, Toro again has a walk-behind mower with that great personal pace guide system (the faster you walk, the faster the mower goes) and a 30-inch cut to cover a lot of space and get a lot more done.

One Honda unit that is an upper end walk-behind mower has a speed control where you select one speed. It also has a composite-style deck (the main body of the mower that the blades connect to) which tends to clean better.

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important additive to get a good start to the lawn,” Land said.

Land and his team like to get to know the customer and fit them with what they need. Not everyone will take the exact same mower.

“It’s personal because you’re talking to a family-owned business. We’ll take care of you,” Land said.

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HOME AND GARDEN 27

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“Not only are we sleeping at home, we’re working there all day breathing particulates in,” said Jeff Richard, general manager of Northern Colorado Air, Inc., a locally-owned and family-operated HVAC installation, service and repair company in Fort Collins in business since 1992. “There’s lots of contaminants in our air, stuff we don’t want to absorb into our lungs.”

Viruses aren’t the only concern. Those with asthma, allergies, compromised lung function and other conditions do better in clean air – and even those without a condition can get the occasional headache from poor air quality.

Without an air filtering system in place, the air in a home, office or other building can contain dust particulates, allergens (including pollen, mold spores and pet dander), and volatile organic compounds, VOCs. “If you look at the sunlight after you vacuumed and look at the air, there are millions of things flying around in the air, and we breathe that in,” Richard said.

Air Purification Solutions

Purchase tickets at:

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Questions? Call 970-579-0828 28 HOME AND GARDEN

Northern Colorado Air offers solutions for cleaner, fresher air from the installation of air purification and filtration systems to the regular cleaning of a furnace. The company installs proven, name-brand air conditioning, furnaces and heating systems, as well as HVAC equipment and replacement parts, at homes and businesses along the Front Range, mainly in Fort Collins, Longmont, Loveland and Windsor. The systems run efficiently, reliably, quietly and safely, while minimizing operational costs.

Lennox PureAir is one of their air purification systems, which is compatible with most HVAC systems without additional energy

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March 28, 2021

costs. It is a three-part filtration system that uses ultraviolet light and a specialized filter to remove more than 99 percent of dust and allergens and more than 90 percent of bioaerosols that include airborne viruses, as well as any ozone emissions. It also destroys VOCs and odors from cooking, pets, solvents and cleaning products.

“All the air that goes into your furnace would be going through that filtration system,” Richard said.

LED In-Duct Purifier Another air purification system is the Reme Halo, a LED in-duct air purifier that uses ultraviolet light to purify the areas of the home accessed by the central air-conditioning system. It uses bi-polar ionization and a specialized technology to remove dust, allergens, airborne and surface bacteria and viruses, and odors.

“It kills anything moving through it as long as the air moves properly through the duct system,” Richard said.

The Reme Halo works on the supply side of the air stream, while the Lennox works on the return side of the duct work.

“None of those units produce ozone,” Richard said. “Obviously, we breathe some in because we’re outside. We just don’t want mechanized ozone in your house.”

Richard gets asked if the installation of an air purification system means no more dusting – he has to tell customers they’ll still need to dust but not as much.

“You’re going to live a healthier life, not breathing dirt into your lungs, plus your air will be more comfortable throughout the house,” Richard said.

Northern Colorado Air offers a free indoor air-quality analysis using Air Advice to provide a detailed report of the level of particulates and allergens. A plan can be drafted using the report as a basis for recommending, installing and maintaining an air purification product. The The Air Advice air-quality company also offers free in-home analysis system. replacement quotes on all of its other products and most of its services.

Northern Colorado Air has three departments to offer its whole house air-purification and comfort systems. The first is for new construction installation and the second is for existing home retrofits of air-conditioning and furnace units. The third is for service or repair – the company offers a maintenance plan to service its customers’ HVAC systems.

March 28, 2021

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HOME AND GARDEN 29

ROOF DAMAGE 101 What to look for after a storm and what to do about it.

By John Teehan for Home + Garden

Harsh weather conditions can do a number on a roof.

Whether it’s hail, heavy snow, torrential rains, or high winds, your roof is one of your home’s most critical defenses. When it gets damaged, your home becomes vulnerable to leaks, mold, and structural problems.

Following a storm, it’s a good idea to check your roof ’s condition and know what steps to take to keep minor problems from becoming major problems.

After the Storm

Spring hail storms can be roof-killers. (Shutterstock)

Hail can weaken asphalt tiles or break wooden or slate tiles. Heavy winds lead to broken branches and fallen trees, which can cause structural issues. The weight of accumulated snow and ice can lead to a slower-but-no-less-expensive situation that results in leaks or more severe problems.

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March 28, 2021

Following a significant weather event, check the inside of your house first.

Head up to the attic and look for water stains, signs of leaking, or unexpected drafts. Pay attention to the inside walls as water will get behind there, leading to mold problems if not addressed quickly.

Shine a light along the underside of your roof and look for any bulging or dampness.

Don’t forget to check basements. Roof damage can include compromised gutters and downspouts. If water is not redirected away from your home during a storm, it could end up pooling in your basement or damaging the foundation.

Up On the Rooftop

caused damage to your roof, you’re going to want to call a qualified roofing contractor to inspect the damage. They can help with two things right away.

First, they can determine if a leak results from a roofing problem or something else entirely.

Second, they can give you an estimate for your roof leak repair cost.

In some cases, the repair costs may not meet your insurance deductible, so you may not need to call your insurance company at all. Make sure to retain copies of all records should you have to call the insurance company at a later time for a wholly different issue.

After checking out the inside of your home, it’s time to look outside. If you can access your roof safely, give it a visual inspection. Look for branches and other loose debris. Remove any you can reach safely.,

Contacting Your Insurance Company

Next, keep an eye peeled for anything that might be causing water to pool in one spot. This could be dents, depressions, or visible breakage. Are there any missing shingles? How about slipped or broken shingles? A shingle that is not correctly in place could indicate hidden damage or, at the very least, suggest water leakage in the near future.

Ideally, you’ve already had a professional come by to assess the damage. This saves you a step between reporting the damage to the insurance company and them sending a check to cover the costs.

Calling Your Roofing Contractor If you’ve reason to believe a storm has

If the damage looks like it will exceed your deductible, your insurance company will require you to obtain a roofing contractor estimate before proceeding.

Roofing Material Options Different materials react to storms in different ways.

Asphalt shingles—the most common material found on roofs—are

inexpensive and durable. Still, they have a tendency to blow off in high winds, which end up leaving bald spots on your roof, making it more vulnerable to water damage.

Cedar shakes can last longer, stand up better to high winds, and have the bonus of often being treated to resist burning and insect infestation. Unfortunately, they become more vulnerable as they age and are exposed to UV radiation.

Metal roofing can withstand extended high winds, are long-lasting, and require little in the way of maintenance. While more expensive to install than the more prevalent asphalt tiles, metal roofing can end up saving a homeowner money in being far less prone to damage and leaks.

A Healthy Roof for a Healthy Home Don’t ignore your roof after a storm.

Just because you can’t see any damage right away doesn’t mean that it doesn’t exist. If you have any reason to suspect a storm has done damage to your roof, inspect it carefully or call in professionals to conduct a more expert examination. Caught early enough, you can save yourself a lot of expense and trouble by fixing problems sooner than later.

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HOME AND GARDEN 31

What Buyers Are Looking for in a New Home in 2021

Well-lit office spaces are a desired feature in a remote-work friendly home. (Shutterstock)

By Pam Moore for Home + Garden

If you’re building a new home this year, you’re not alone. The home building industry has been growing steadily over the past five years — and it has only accelerated since 2020. The pandemic, combined with the fact that interest rates have dropped to historic lows are the major factors driving this trend.

According to Kurt Skott, the president of Custom On-Site Builders, homeowner tastes in new builds have evolved to match not just their increasing budgets, but the times we find ourselves living in. He says his clients’ preferences are reflective of the current trends we are seeing across the nation.

“The price of housing continues to rise, therefore the taste in homes continues to rise,” explains Skott, whose company serves the entire Northern Colorado area. And the fact that we’re spending more time at home only adds to clients’ desires for upgraded features, strategic floor plans, and extra space.

According to the home builder trade 32 HOME AND GARDEN

publication Builder and Developer, in 2021, buyers place a high value on aesthetics. Modern and contemporary looks featuring clean, simple lines and black window frames top the list of most requested styles.

As many buyers have been working (and schooling and exercising) from home over the past year, the floorplans and features they’re requesting reflect their remote lifestyles. According to the Pew Research Center, over half of Americans say they’d like to continue working from home even after the pandemic ends. While home offices have traditionally been situated toward the front of a home, according to one industry report, today’s consumers are increasingly requesting layouts that include an office toward the rear of the home, where there is more privacy.

And in light of the trend toward video conferencing, which may be here to stay, clients are specifically asking for floorplans that include a window facing their desk and a wall directly behind the desk.

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Space for exercise, a dedicated office desk and easy clean hard floors incorporate several checklist items. (Shutterstock)

The pandemic has also spurred us to rethink the role of health and hygiene in infection prevention; according to industry experts, this has resulted in a trend toward design upgrades that are likely to endure long after the pandemic ends. Buyers are asking for features that will support their health and immunity, such as easy-to-clean surfaces, touchless faucets and light switches, and design features like blackout spaces that support quality sleep.

And since the pandemic has found us spending very little, if any time at the gym or the spa, many consumers favor design features that make it easier and more convenient to stay healthy and fit at home. Such features include home gyms, saunas, steam rooms, and natural-light fixtures that help regulate circadian rhythms.

Whatever you’re looking for in your new home, Custom On-Site Builders can make it happen. “We work with customers directly to customize their homes to their wants and needs and we care enough to go above and beyond,” says Skott.

March 28, 2021

How to Prepare for a Move of Any Size Preparing for a move? Whether you’re downsizing, upgrading, moving locally, or cross-country, there plenty of steps you can take upfront to ensure the transition is a smooth one. Bret Eastberg, owner of Switchback Moving Company in Loveland shared these pro tips:

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Your home heating, ventilation and air conditioning system (a.k.a. HVAC) is the respiratory system of your home. Treat it like an investment in your health (because it is). Look at us for a breath of fresh air.

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Our team won’t let you down.

DO Take a final walk-through in your old home before the movers depart. Closets, cupboards, and basement items can easily be missed.

Create a label system that makes it easy to unload each box in the right room to make unloading easier and quicker.

When packing, keep heavy items in small boxes and clearly label “fragile” boxes.

Remove linens from beds and make sure to ask if the company disassembles and assembles furniture for you.

Plan ahead for logistics. Make sure everyone in the family knows who will be at the old house, who will be at the new house, and who is responsible for any children and/or pets.

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Hire a mover that isn’t insured. Movers should carry general liability coverage, coverage for the value of property, worker’s compensation coverage and auto insurance on the moving truck.

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HOME AND GARDEN 33

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