Fall Home Improvement 2015

The Crescent-News

2015

Improvement Special Edition

Hardwood project inspiration: page 2 Pro tips for painting: page 14 More options with vinyl siding: page 3

Skylights may help improve SAD: page 7 Heated driveways: shovel no more: page 4 Curb appeal for resale: page 6

Garden through fall’s chill: page 15 Top tile trends: page 10 Important shower know how: page 5

Wednesday, September 16, 2015

 2 Fall Home Improvement 2015

Let hardwood inspire your next home project During the process, oxygen is removed from the oven to prevent the wood from burning. The high heat — in excess of 400 F — produces a naturally durable wood that is permanently resistant to water, insects and decay.

Bob Miller, director of sales and marketing intelligence at Frank Miller Lumber Company, said that because the treatment process drastically reduces modified wood’s moisture content and limits its ability to absorb moisture, products are more dimensionally stable — making them less prone to cupping, warping, expansion, and contraction with changes in humidity.

“The process also removes organic compounds from wood’s cells, eliminating a food source for insects A recipe for success and fungi,” Miller added.

Thermal modification is a “Simply put, thermally non-toxic process that sim- modified wood is a natural ply “cooks” wood in heat. and healthy alternative to (BPT) — If you’re looking to upgrade your home’s exterior, include American hardwoods in the mix.

New, environmentally friendly treatment methods now make hardwood an excellent and great looking material choice for outdoor living spaces.

“American hardwoods in outdoor applications used to be taboo,” said Linda Jovanovich of the American Hardwood Information Center.

“These days, restrictions and concerns are distant memories, and hardwoods are confidently being installed outdoors as siding, decking, fences — you name it — thanks to non-chemical heat treatments that improve the dimensional stability and durability of this wonderful product.”

The Crescent-News -Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Photo courtesy of Brandpoint

Through thermal modification, American Hardwoods are ideal for outdoor home-improvement projects, such

as this sweet elm EcoWood flooring by Atlanta Hardwood Corporation.

chemically preserved, presSuccessfully used in America. But, Scott Seyler, sure-treated wood. And it’s Europe since the 1980s, who handles export sales at affordably priced, too.” thermally modified wood Northland Forest Products, At home in the outdoors has been slow to migrate to • hardwood, Page 4

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The Crescent-News -Wednesday, September 16, 2015

More protection, more textures and more value now given by vinyl siding

(BPT) — While vinyl siding has historically been the most-used siding material in the U.S., its continuing advancements are allowing even more choice when it comes to two critical qualities desired by homeowners: outstanding curb appeal and low maintenance. Add to this the growing interest by homeowners to save energy and the increasing green measures being taken by builders, and insulated vinyl siding stands out as a versatile choice.

More value is being created by marrying texture and toughness, enabling beautiful and extremely durable homes. The toughest vinyl siding exteriors are codecompliant for hurricane zones and offer maximum possible fire resistance rat-

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For example, with several new stone siding profiles in its Foundry Stone Collection and the most comprehensive color palette for cedar shake and shingle panels, Foundry premium vinyl siding by the Tapco Group has emerged as a cladding of choice in stormprone and moisture-rich coastal areas. Its durability, low maintenance and limited lifetime warranty are factors making it popular in locations such as Virginia Beach, the Carolina coast and communities throughout Alabama. Unlimited by geography, Foundry siding is found nationally, from whole-house applications in western New York and South Florida to gable accents in the Great Lakes and Mountain West.

“It has great looks and I like the fact that it meets the strict Florida building code wind load requirement,” said George Williams, owner of Precision Homecrafters in Birmingham, Ala. “With the cedar shake profile, until you walk up and touch it, you don’t know that it’s vinyl.”

Foundry siding’s robust strength withstands the harshest conditions. With a windload exceeding 170 mph, it also features highest-rating Class 1(A) fire resistance and 60-inch pound-plus-impact resis-

Fall Home Improvement 2015  3

Photo courtesy of Brandpoint

Vinyl siding has changed considerably over the years and now is made to look like cedar shakes. It also is very

tance. At the same time, it is easily cut with snips and comes in efficient 5-foot panels, so a single installer can quickly side a home.

Homeowner Marsha Wallace had 27 squares of Foundry Siding installed on her Virginia Beach, Va., home.

“Everyone who has seen the house is amazed when they get up really close and realize it’s vinyl siding,” she said. “They don’t believe it until they get up really close and examine it. It looks like brand new shake and doesn’t look like your typical siding job at all. The freedom from maintenance is very attractive.”

George Williams, the Alabama builder, also appreciates the low maintenance.

“I put Foundry siding on my home,” noted Williams.

“People see it and they really like it.”

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The Crescent-News -Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Heated driveways: Say goodbye to the snow shovel?

Associated Press

While the rest of the neighborhood was digging out, Alex Geier had little problem leaving his Hinsdale, Ill., house around 7:30 a.m. each morning last winter, no matter how much snow had piled up during the night.

No, Geier didn’t pay some kid to shovel at the crack of dawn, and he didn’t hire a private plow service.

He and his family were able to navigate even snowy mornings with relative ease thanks to a heated driveway, which melts snow as soon as it hits it.

“It’s a classic example how you can’t put a price tag on peace of mind,” said Geier, who put in the (pricy) heated driveway when his house was built in 2005. “Given the climate of Chicago in the winter, it was really nice not to have to shovel.”

As posh as it sounds, a whole lot of people are looking into heated driveways after an unusually harsh winter in much of the country.

“It’s becoming more and more popular because of an aging population of boomers who are just tired of shoveling,” said Bryan Morris, director of sales for Warmzone, a Utah-based company that designs

and supplies radiant heat systems.

“We sell a great deal to whoever gets snow.”

David Veron, who owns The Veron Co., a landscape and design business in Marlborough, Mass., sees the popularity of heated driveways as part of a larger trend: Homeowners are trying to build outdoor spaces they can use year-round.

In addition to driveways, his customers are heating walkways that lead to amenities such as hot tubs and fire pits. “It’s nice to sit around those in the winter,” Veron said. “But if you have to shovel first, it’s too much of a chore.”

Morris said the uptick in business started last winter: “People were calling us saying, ‘I can’t keep up.’”

Interest has persisted, since the warmer months are prime time for doing the work to install heated driveways.

That generally entails ripping up the existing driveway and laying down snow-melting cables and mats, which can then be covered with asphalt, concrete or pavers, Morris said.

You can zone a driveway so that one part of it is heated and another isn’t. And heated driveways can be

programmed to turn on automatically when the temperature drops to a certain level.

Although heated driveways unquestionably qualify as luxury items, Morris said there are so many ways to design and build them that they don’t have to be cost-prohibitive. Prices range from, say, $6,000 for a small driveway that’s about 30 feet long to the $50,000 that Geier paid for his 200-foot-long driveway.

The cost of electricity is also a factor. Again, it depends on the size of the driveway, although Morris said that heating a small driveway for the duration of a typical six-hour storm could cost as little as $13.

A driveway heated by electricity is also cheaper than one heated by hydronics, or hot water systems. The choice often depends on the house’s heating system, Morris said.

And many homeowners, he said, heat just enough of the driveway to drive their car out.

Despite his peace of mind last winter, Geier, who is selling his Hinsdale house, said he doesn’t think he’ll put a heated driveway in his new home given the cost and other issues, like having to still shovel walkways and sidewalks.

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HARDWOOD From Page 2

said the durability and dimensional stability of thermally modified hardwoods are major advantages that interest homeowners who are exploring outdoor home-improvement projects.

“With all that thermally modified wood offers, it’s quickly becoming popular for siding, decking, trim, and flooring,” Seyler explained.

“Depending on the specific treatment process, locally sourced ash, poplar, maple, and other hardwoods are performing just as well, if not better than cedar, popular imported species, and composite materials.”

Finishing it off

Through the thermal modification process, a rich chocolate color results, highlighting the wood’s natural beauty and providing a luxurious look. But like any other wood, over time, if not sealed, thermally modified hardwood will naturally weather to a shade of gray because of exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

“Most homeowners prefer the rich, dark color of the modified wood, and choose not to apply a stain or to cover the grain pattern with paint,” said Hal Mitchell, vice president of domestic sales at Atlanta Hardwood Corporation. “We do, however, recommend applying a UV-inhibitor sealant to all sides and ends of the wood, to preserve its color and prevent graying.” He added that, “Since thermally modified hardwood is resistant to water, water-based finishes may not perform well.

We’ve found that oil-based sealants and finishes work best.

“I have a screened-in porch with tongue-andgroove flooring made from thermally modified sweet gum,” Mitchell said. “It looks fantastic and is performing well because it doesn’t cup from exposure to the elements. The material is great for outdoor applications if sealed properly.

No other wood can do that based on my experience.”

The Crescent-News -Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Several important things you should know about your shower (BPT) — You use it to get clean, refresh, relax or get invigorated, but how much do you really know about your shower? Did you know that the average shower lasts eight minutes in America, or that the shower is the third largest source of water use in the average American home?

With conserving water and saving money and time becoming increasingly important to many people, here are some of the most important things you should know about your shower: • Not all showerheads are created equal. Different showerheads emit water at different rates, and that “flow rate” affects how efficient a showerhead is or isn’t. Federal law limits the maximum allowable flow rate to 2.5 gallons per minute (gpm) for showerheads, but some have even lower flow rates. The less water that comes out of the showerhead per minute, the less water that will get wasted down the drain. If your showerhead pre-dates 1980, it could be using more than 5 gpm. Replacing a less efficient showerhead with one that has a lower flow rate, like GROHE showerheads and hand

showers with EcoJoy technology, can save water and money, without sacrificing your shower experience.

• You can renovate a shower without tearing through the wall. Updating a shower can improve its efficiency and your shower experience, yet the potential need to open a bathroom wall may make you hesitate. Shower renovation, however, doesn’t have to require major re-plumbing. The GROHE RetroFit Shower System can be installed in less than an hour, it connects to your existing plumbing system without breaking the tile wall, and comes standard with a hand shower as well as a traditional showerhead. With three recently introduced models, the system makes it easy to renovate a shower and update a bathroom, even if you’re a renter who wants a quick

and easy upgrade.

• Thermostatic valves provide a customized, consistent shower. How much water goes down the shower drain while you’re waiting for the temperature to reach a comfortable level?

Adding a shower with a thermostatic valve not only ensures you’ll never again step into an icy shower Photo courtesy of Brandpoint stream or be surprised by a Trending oversize rain showers, like this one from temperature fluctuation, it can also reduce the amount GROHE, can provide a spa-like shower experience. of water you use. If you’re planning a bathroom renovation, a professional can easily install a thermostatic valve that will ensure water reaches the desired temperature sooner and stays at the temperature throughout your shower.

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efit for a lot of people,” said Jonathan Wierengo, vice president of marketing for The Tapco Group. “You have a versatile, large selection of warm and inviting colors that let the house stand out — and you don’t have to worry about painting.”

The Foundry is a division of The Tapco GroupR, a U.S. Green Building Council member. For more information, visit www. foundrysiding.com or call 800-771-4486.

Fall Home Improvement 2015  5

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 6 Fall Home Improvement 2015

Six curb appeal boosters that increase your home’s resale value

The Crescent-News -Wednesday, September 16, 2015

(BPT) — Whether you they’ll also pay dividends ing — More than just a weljust bought a new home every time you (and the come safety feature, exterior have lived in yours for neighbors) gaze at your gor- or lighting gives your home a warm, inviting glow. years, home improvement geous home. seems to come with the ter• Upgrade landscaping Landscape lighting highritory. It’s understandable — What’s one of the fast- lights architectural details, — you want your home est (and most affordable) spotlights your beautiful to feel like it’s your home, things home makeover new plants (see the first tip) which means matching shows do to spruce up a and helps would-be buyers your tastes. That said, it lit- house? Put in new plants envision relaxing evenings erally pays to think about and lay down fresh mulch. outdoors. The best part? It how much resale value any Just a few new flowering need not be expensive. You improvement is likely to plants and shrubs make any can hire a professional to bring. After all, it’s your home looked cared for. And do a simple landscape light biggest investment. that layer of mulch gives a plan. Or go the solar garWith return on invest- fresh look that welcomes den light route with a quick ment in mind, here are six any buyer at your doorstep. trip to your local home improvement store and do top exterior improvements an afternoon.

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Some ways to boost the curb appeal of your home is to install fresh landscaping, a new coat of paint and new windows.

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• Replace siding — Not only does siding protect your home, it’s one of the top features that contribute to curb appeal. If your siding is damaged, old and worn, replacing it can add significant value. And if you go with natural siding

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materials like pine, cedar or redwood, which are today’s trends, you add a boost to your home’s look that any buyer is bound to notice.

• Paint — Nothing’s faster at improving appearance than a fresh coat of paint. And it’s wonderfully affordable if you do the job yourself. Resale tip: go with popular exterior paint colors like white or off-white, grays, neutrals like putty, warm yellows, or light blues-the colors you expect to see on a well-maintained home.

• Replace old windows — If the eyes are the windows into the soul, then windows are the way to let light and soul-nourishing views into your home.

Beyond their beauty, windows also affect your home’s energy efficiency.

If yours are old and inefficient, consider meeting both needs at once using wood replacement windows. Remodeling Magazine says they return nearly 79 percent of their cost when you sell your home, a higher ROI than vinyl windows.

These are just some of the top ways you can enhance your home’s curb appeal and value.

For other tips, tricks and trends on exterior improvements and interior design ideas like natural wood pergolas, feature walls and ceilings, visit www.woodnaturally.com.

The Crescent-News -Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Skylights can help improve moods during long winter (BPT) — Three percent of the U.S. population suffers from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) every winter, according to Psychology Today. But you don’t have to be diagnosed with an actual disorder to suffer a bad case of the winter blues, it can happen to anyone.

Since climate and environment have a lot to do with causing winter doldrums, you might find engaging in some home improvement projects can make you feel happier and healthier this winter.

Freshening your space can feel good any time of year, but certain projects are perfectly aligned to give you a much-needed mood boost when it turns cold or wet weather sets in. Here are four projects that not only can brighten your outlook, they can also be good for your wallet: • Install skylights Avoiding SAD is preferable to treatment and skylights can help you maximize the amount of natural light that enters your home this winter. More natural light is good for you on

many levels.

Sunlight stimulates the body’s production of Vitamin D and increases the levels of serotonin in your brain; lower serotonin levels are thought to be associated with depression, lack of energy, elevated appetite and excessive sleepiness.

What’s more, if you opt for Energy Star-qualified solarpowered fresh-air skylights, like those made by Velux America, you can also help improve indoor air quality. These skylights open, providing passive ventilation to allow stale indoor air to escape and fresh air to enter, and they close automatically in case of rain.

Skylights can also be good for your financial health.

Solar powered skylights, along with solar powered blinds, as well as installation costs, are eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit.

Also, more natural light in your home on a dark winter day can help decrease your need for artificial lighting.

And sunshine can help warm the interior of your home and support the work your furnace does to keep

the house comfortable.

Skylights can be installed in many areas of your home with kitchens and baths being among the most popular choices for more natural light, fresh air, and privacy. Even areas without direct roof access, like hallways and closets, can benefit from more natural light through tubular Sun Tunnel skylights. Visit www.whyskylights.com to learn more.

• Replace your garage door If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think much about your garage door or the impact it has on how your home looks and feels. Yet the garage door is a huge surface area that

Fall Home Improvement 2015  7

Photo courtesy of Brandpoint

Enjoy more natural light from above and fresh air in your home during the winter months and year-round.

Energy Star-qualified VELUX no leak, solar powered, fresh air skylights and blinds are operated by programmable touchpad remote control and they close automatically in case of rain.

directly affects your home’s curb appeal and its ability to retain heat in the winter.

A great deal of warm air can escape a home through

an uninsulated garage door. What’s more, when the garage gets cold, it can affect the comfort of rooms • winter, Page 9

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 8 Fall Home Improvement 2015

Simple design tricks

(BPT) — Whether you’ve just moved into a home or you’ve lived there for years, it might be time for a design tune-up. While many may think tackling their home decor takes a bundle of time, money and expertise, it doesn’t have to be so frightening. You don’t need to spend a fortune or go to design school to breathe a little life into your home.

“It’s all about simplicity,” said Susan Yoder, interior design expert for Clayton Homes. “A little goes a long way when it comes to home decor and living spaces.

Only a few simple changes can make a big difference and allow you to create a room you’ll be itching to show off to friends and family.”

Yoder offers a few of her design tips that will help any homeowner revamp their space: • Pops of color.

“Nothing livens up a room like a bright pop of color,” Yoder said. If you have neutral-toned furniture, try sprucing up the room with lamps, curtains and accessories in bold hues. If you’re up for a painting challenge,

an accent wall is a great way to incorporate color into a space. Choose your favorite color from a throw pillow or wall-art piece in the room to pull the look together.

• Varying textures.

A room tends to get boring when it focuses on only one texture, so it’s important to create a sense of balance. Try varying the fabric types on your sofa and curtains. Add in some metal or wooden accents to draw the eye around the room. You can even play with lighting to reflect off certain objects and create visual interest.

• Antique feature.

Choose an antique or unique piece of decor to be the inspiration for the room.

This could be a rug, lamp, chair or even a chandelier — anything that gets you energized and motivated.

Get creative and run with the theme it creates. Or if your style is more on the modern side, an antique object will stand out among your contemporary decor.

• Symmetrical yet functional.

The furniture collection in a room should form a restful, symmetrical layout.

The Crescent-News -Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Photo courtesy of Brandpoint

Simple design tricks can breathe new life into a room without a lot of

It’s all about balance. There should be between three and 10 feet between each seat. Additionally, instead of pushing each piece up against the wall to create more space, give your furniture a bit of breathing room a few inches from the wall. This makes the room appear open and airy.

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financial expense, such as getting rid of clutter.

• Clutter-free organization.

Getting rid of clutter is a grand challenge for most homeowners. When you decide to take on the mess, drawers and cabinets are your best friends. Take some time to go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate or

throw away. Store any leftover items that can cause clutter in an organized, outof-sight area.

Use these tips to revitalize your space and you’ll be ready to confidently host gatherings and enjoy your home instead of shying away from your living space.

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Fall Home Improvement 2015  9

How to live more comfortably in a small space (BPT) — As we seek to simplify our lives, the desire for small-space living — even one-room living — seems more attractive than ever.

But whether you’re ready to join the tiny house movement or just want to get the most out of a compact space in your home, there are easy things you can do to make a small space look, feel and function like a larger one.

“There’s no need to sacrifice great design if you live in a small space. A few simple changes are all you need to make it feel bigger, more beautiful and a reflection

winter From Page 7

around and above it. Have a game room over the garage that’s chilly in winter? The garage door could be to blame.

Replacing an old, uninsulated garage door with a new insulated model can improve heat retention.

And a new garage door is a great way to update your home’s facade.

• Replace an old appliance (or as many as you can afford) If you’re already bummed by winter, having to live with old, beatup, inefficient appliances will only add to your frustration. Plus, older appliances generally use more electricity and water than newer models.

Replacing an old refrigerator, dishwasher, clothes washer or dryer with Energy Star-qualified appliances can help reduce your energy and water consumption — and bills.

It’s also an improvement that you can feel good about because it’s the perfect marriage of practicality (you really need appliances that function well) and enjoyment (all those bells and whistles just make the work more fun).

• Declutter and add organizers You may not think of cleanup as a legitimate home improvement, but

of your personality,” said Jackie Jordan, director of color marketing, Sherwin-Williams.

Look overhead and underfoot.

Consider using every conceivable space to please the eye — even the ceiling.

“I love the idea of reflecting the shape of your dining room table with a bold accent color on the ceiling above it,” said Jordan. Another idea: define a space at the floor level with an area rug beneath a couch and side table.

Multitasking solutions If you’re always multitasking,

decluttering and organizing your environment can definitely boost your mood. In American homes, the problem of clutter has reached staggering proportions. More than half of Americans (54 percent) say they feel overwhelmed by the amount of clutter in their homes, and 78 percent have no idea what to do with it, according to a recent survey by the National Association for

your furniture can do the same.

Place an ottoman with a hidden storage compartment or flip-top serving tray beside a comfy chair.

Move a twin bed next to the wall and add big patterned pillows to create seating space by day, and sleeping space by night. The pillows can also provide extra floor seating for entertaining.

The answer is written on the wall Walls can also be multifunctional.

Sketch Pad, a clear gloss coating, can turn any surface into a dry erase board, and goes over any

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Grab some trash bags and start cleaning house.

Trash the things that are clearly junk, donate things that are still usable but not by you and set aside the things you want to keep.

Invest in some closet, cabinet and drawer organizers. Add storage cubbies to a mud room or entryway and create storage space in your garage.

paint color. Instead of cluttering up the walls with bulletin boards, write directly on the wall by a computer desk, or scribble messages and doodles in the kitchen. Simply wipe it clean with a dry eraser.

Have lofty ambitions Consider creating a sleeping loft.

It’s not only cozy, but leaves extra living space below. A Murphy bed that folds up discreetly into the wall is another space saver.

Find a focal point It can make a space feel larger.

Try painting a corner, such as a • smAll sPAce, Page 16

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 10 Fall Home Improvement 2015

Dress up floors with top tile trends (BPT) — If you are renovating any area of your home, it may be time to try something new — such as bringing tile into main living areas in addition to your bathrooms and kitchen. New designs, styles and technologies are making tile the most versatile and accessible flooring material.

“Tile has always been durable and easy to maintain,” said Kevin McDaniel, director of product development and design services for the Tile Shop, which sells tile and natural stone at more than 100 retail showrooms across the country, from Arizona to New York.

“Tile has a long life span and classic good looks, making it a favorite flooring of choice wherever homeowners need a floor material that’s both practical and beautiful. Even more design

options are available now, making tile a smart floor surface in virtually any room of the home.”

Homeowners, builders, designers and product developers are thinking outside the box when incorporating tile into renovations and new builds. From bringing tile flooring up the wall, to using the same tile flooring across multiple rooms, to using water jet technology, they’re working with tile in non-traditional ways. Here are some top tile trends to consider for your interior design project: • The look of real wood with a rustic finish. Many of the larger-format faux wood tiles mimic the look of real hardwood floors.

Less expensive and more durable than real wood, these tile floors are practical yet beautiful choices

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for active households with children and pets. Details evoke the character of real wood, right down to the nails.

“Rustic faux wood is making a huge splash because of its warm, earthy coloring and unusual time-worn finishes such as aged paint, a finish hard to achieve with real wood. I foresee it continuing to be a very popular design trend,” McDaniel said.

• Those longer tile planks. While standard square tile sizes will always have their place in home decor, rectangular tiles — otherwise known as planks — are gaining popularity.

New 12-by-24-inch tiles are a hot choice in bathrooms and 6-by-36-inch tiles or 8-inch by 8-feet planks (often in wood-grained looks) are a favorite for living areas.

“Using longer planks can help smaller spaces

The Crescent-News -Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Photo courtesy of Brandpoint

A light palette of cool grey tones gives this rustic faux wood floor in this bathroom a down-to-earth appearance.

look larger, and create an appealing consistency across multiple rooms,” said McDaniel. “While consumers may be familiar with traditional tile shapes such as square or hexagon, these longer tiles offer exciting new design flexibility.”

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now, it’s not practical for every household or application. New tile styles create the look of poured or stained concrete at a fraction of the cost, and with all the durability, versatility and ease associated with tile. Tile options range from long rectangular 8-by18-inch or 12-by-24-inch planks to 18-by-18-inch squares. Tiles are rectified — the edge is cut completely straight-and grout joints are very narrow to further create the look of seamless concrete.

• The warmth of heated floors. While heated floors were once a luxury option for homeowners, they’re becoming increasingly mainstream. Tile lends itself to radiant heat beneath the floor. The Tile Shop carries a full line of accessories, including thermostats, which can control the heat in any floor in your home. This includes both the shower floor and shower benches.

• Unconventional grout and tile design ideas. Using a high-contrast grout color can make the floor pop, and it’s a tactic that works well with mosaic designs.

Choosing the right grout color is just as important as the tile you select. Also popular is the concept of mosaic designs that mimic an area rug within a larger section of tile flooring and create the look of custom art within the floor.

The Crescent-News -Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Fall Home Improvement 2015  11

Home inventories can help in case there is a natural disaster Associated Press

Wild weather has become more common, the experts say, and homeowners can prepare for natural disasters by making home inventories — detailed lists of household belongings and their approximate value.

Making a home inventory can be easy; there are inexpensive or free services, apps and software.

“The format is not nearly as important as just having some kind of list,” said Jeanne Salvatore of the New York-based Insurance Information Institute, a nonprofit that helps educate the public about insurance.

“Just going around your home with a pen and paper taking notes, or making a video with your smartphone of yourself walking around your home and describing the things around you can make a world of difference when you need to make a claim.”

And home inventories aren’t just for the rich.

“Regular people, whether they’re homeowners or renters, need home inventories way more than the wealthy, because they need the money more,” Salvatore said. “People always say they don’t have a lot of stuff. But if you add up the cost of your bed, with your mattress, mattress cover, bed frame and maybe a few suits hanging in your closet, some high-tech items or small appliances, and your bike or golf clubs, it easily adds up to thousands of

dollars. And you’re going to really depend on that money to get up and running again after a disaster.”

The industry estimates that less than 40 percent of households have a detailed inventory of their belongings, and that having one may halve the time it takes to process a claim, or even mean the difference between being reimbursed for a loss or not.

Inventories also can help you determine whether you have enough insurance coverage. If you find your insurance doesn’t cover everything, a home inventory can facilitate applying for aid or deducting unreimbursed losses from your taxes in the event of a disaster, Salvatore said.

To put together a basic home inventory, just make a list of your belongings and their estimated value and store it in a safe place.

Get in the habit of taking photos and saving receipts when buying valuable items. If you don’t have a receipt, a copy of a credit card bill is helpful, as are serial numbers and photos, or even notes about where an item was purchased.

Once you have a list, make two copies: Put one in a safety deposit box or other secure, off-site place, and send the other to a trusted friend in another part of the country.

While software programs are plentiful and free or inexpensive, there are advantages to hiring a home inventory company

to get the job done — and the cost (generally between $500 and $800) can save thousands of dollars in potential losses.

“The benefit of a having an experienced third party do the inventory is there’s no dispute of claim. There’s so much fraud out there, and having a third party

eliminates that burden of proof that it’s not fraud,” said Carrie Mitchell, founder of the Colorado-based TWS Home Inventory, with offices in New York and Florida.

She started her company after volunteering to help fire victims in Colorado Springs.

Know Your Stuff is a free phone application put out by the Insurance Information Institute, and a wide range of software and services is also available from insurance companies and independent home inventory companies.

• inventories, Page 12

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 12 Fall Home Improvement 2015

The Crescent-News -Wednesday, September 16, 2015

High end kitchen design that won’t break the bank our everyday lives.

“When designing a highend space, it’s important to remember that you’re shaping more than just a living environment; you’re laying the foundation for a future community of friends and family,” said Michela O’Connor Abrams, president and CEO of Dwell, the award-winning design media company. “Design elements that marry beautiful aesthetics, intuitive technology and functionality, and that are reflective of your authentic taste and personal style, should always rise to the top when deciding which products to introduce into your home.”

Dwell on Design 2015, America’s largest design

(BPT) — Ninety-eight percent of people believe good design enhances their daily lives, and they’re willing to pay more for products that truly reflect their own personal style and aesthetic, according to a new study from Dwell. Drawing the line between “splurging” on those premium items that bring a design vision to life and finding ways to “save” money on the back end can sometimes be a bit challenging.

When it comes to qualityversus-quantity in kitchen design, you really can have it all if you know where and how to look — particularly when it comes to the latest design and technological advancements that enhance

Andrew T. Davis

show, just wrapped up in Los Angeles. A highlight of the 10th annual show was the launch of the new LG Studio line of appliances inspired by renowned designer, Nate Berkus. The new appliances blend bestin-class technological innovation with an uncompromising approach to design, delivering integrated and timeless styling that embodies high design tailor-made for any kitchen aesthetic.

“Every family has a different sense of personal style, and the beauty of design is seeing that personality uniquely reflected in each home,” said Berkus, LG Studio’s artistic advisor.

“When we were designing the new line of appliances, I wanted to help people create a kitchen that was hard-

working, but also handsome — a space they would love now and in the future.

The best interiors are ones that tell a story and are assembled over time.”

In conceptualizing and creating a high-end kitchen, Berkus offered a few suggestions to consumers on which aspects of kitchen design require a large investment and where they can afford to hold back.

First, Berkus recommended installing a well-made marble counter top.

“It’s such a classic piece but also very durable, meaning it will still look great for years to come, which is what a forever kitchen is all about,” he said.

Lighting, on the other hand, is an opportunity to

inventories

photographing their computers, electronic devices, sporting goods and other belongings, Salvatore said.

“Most insurance companies don’t require receipts so much as just knowing you had a leather couch, what kind it was and what sort of condition it was in,” said Scott Spencer, worldwide appraisal manager for the Warren, New Jerseybased Chubb Personal Insurance company.

Update your home inventory annually, he

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While it’s helpful to include your insurance policy number and insurance agent’s phone number on the list, it isn’t necessary to send the list to your insurance company unless you want to be sure you have adequate coverage.

Inventories do take time to put together, but the whole family can get involved. Kids can do their own rooms, for example,

Photo courtesy of Brandpoint

Cut back on items such as lighting and spend more on a high-quality counter top and on the best appliances that you can afford as they will last • kitchen, Page 13 longer.

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said: “If you do it at the same time every year it’s easy to remember. I usually update mine around my birthday.”

The most challenging areas are usually attics, basements, closets and other storage areas where things are stashed in boxes.

“Take a look at your garage and ask yourself what you’d want to claim if it went up in smoke.

It might be as simple as detailing and photographing gardening and sporting equipment,” said Salvatore.

The most commonly underestimated area is the wardrobe, Spencer said.

Most people wear the same few outfits over and over again, but the value of everything in your closet can add up to a lot.

Also, be sure to include sentimental or irreplaceable items, like art, he said.

“Even if you can’t replace that $500 painting on your wall, documenting it will allow you to replace it with another $500 painting, as opposed to a poster. There are way more things than diamonds that have real value.”

The Crescent-News -Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Fall Home Improvement 2015  13

There are many decorating solutions in creating a home office Associated Press

Maybe you dash off work emails while making dinner, or you squeeze in a half-hour of work on a spreadsheet before bedtime.

The line between “at work” and “at home” has become a blurry one for many people, and for others it has disappeared entirely. That makes a home workspace more necessary than ever.

Not every home includes a spare room available for use as an office, but design experts say that’s not a problem: Today’s streamlined technology means that just about any space can be transformed into an

appealing and organized area for working.

“Walk into any creative corporation and you’ll find the CEO sitting right smack in the middle of a large, open space along with almost every other key player,” said designer Brian Patrick Flynn of Flynnside Out Productions.

“This relaxed, informal atmosphere has become the norm, not just in corporate settings but also in the home.”

Here, Flynn and two other interior designers — New York City-based Young Huh and Danielle Colding — offer advice on creating a home work area that’s both

practical and inspiring.

PART OF A ROOM IS PERFECT With today’s smaller computers and wireless connections, there’s less need for a boxy desktop and connecting cables. A desk built into a wall of shelving and cabinets can often serve as a fully functioning home office. So unless your work requires total concentration and silence, don’t give up an entire room even if you have one available. And built-in pieces don’t have to be expensive.

“I turned dead space into a mini-home office by configuring Ikea kitchen

cabinets and a laminate countertop as a tall workstation,” Flynn said. “You can assemble it all yourself and have the counter cut to size at a local home improvement store.” Once the pieces are installed, “it looks architectural, almost like it’s always been part of the home.”

Or installing these items in a bedroom closet creates a mini-office that can easily be closed off for privacy.

In a New York City apartment, Colding opened up the wall between the living room and a small bedroom that had been used as an office. She filled one wall with built-in shelving,

cabinetry and a desktop, so the now-larger living room still offered a complete workspace. And she added a Murphy bed along that wall so the room could still accommodate an overnight visitor.

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“The trick is to take the time to shop for vintage sconces and light fixtures.

They will add loads of character to your home but don’t have to cost a lot,” said Berkus.

Another way to add character to your kitchen is flooring. Think vintage wood flooring, said Berkus. It’s a splurge, but so worth it. You can then save on new cabinetry by painting the existing ones in a black lacquer or gray.

“I’ve done this in my own home renovations and for clients. The effect is so great, no one will know you didn’t spend a fortune on new cabinets.”

When it comes to appliances, look for premium stainless models at the best you can afford, Berkus noted. Hardworking appliances that can go the distance are worth every cent.

“The new LG Studio line that I advised on features pro-style design elements that instantly make a kitchen feel high end,” said Berkus.

For dressing up your kitchen, shop your home and use things you already own. Objects from your travels, framed photographs, ceramic bowls or

hand-woven baskets are all things that personalize a space and make it feel layered.

“I love the idea of doing something unexpected in the kitchen, like creating a seating area in your kitchen space,” said Berkus.

Shop your weekend flea market or online for a vintage sofa and coffee table and set up an area for your family to relax in.

Where consumers can

splurge instead is in technology, like the new LG Studio gas slide-in range.

Its patented ProBake Convection and EasyClean Express technologies allow for more even cooking across every rack and, once the baking is done, quick and easy clean-up in just a matter of minutes without using any harsh chemicals.

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 14 Fall Home Improvement 2015

Five tips for painting like a professional

The Crescent-News -Wednesday, September 16, 2015

contemporary hues in the BEHR MARQUEE Interior One-Coat Color Collection.

It’s scrubbable and with a one-coat guarantee, you can spend less time painting and more time on the lake, in the yard or with your friends and family.

BEHR MARQUEE is • Buy high-quality paint available at the Home Depot for the best coverage and stores nationwide. For more information, visit BEHR. deepest color saturation.

When it comes to paint, com/MARQUEEguarantee. quality matters. Search for • Use websites and apps a combination paint-andprimer to save a few steps tools to simplify your and ensure complete cov- search.

Once you’ve chosen your erage. Good options have high hiding ability and product, it’s time to pick a color. Color selection can resist dirt and scuffs.

BEHR MARQUEE seem intimidating, but it’s Interior Paint & Primer a chance to infuse your peris a great example. This sonality into your home. durable paint offers a one- Many online resources are coat guarantee when tinted available for homeowners to one of 372 classic and to explore, coordinate and (BPT) — Cool fall months are the perfect time for a colorful home refresh. With open windows, cool weather and the tips below, you can check painting off your list in a breeze and head back outdoors to enjoy the weather.

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Preparation, good quality paint and good tools are three of the essentials

experiment with different looks. Pinterest, Houzz and Apartment Therapy are great websites for browsing images, finding home decor inspiration and colors that speak to you.

• Use paint samples, rather than chips.

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needed to complete a painting project with a satisfactory conclusion.

The most realistic way to envision the color in your home is to see it in action.

Many paint retailers offer small sample cans for just a few dollars. Use these to paint a few stripes of each color option in the room you’ll be painting, then watch as the color changes in different lighting conditions.

“Sunlight, shadows and furniture can all alter the appearance of paint in your space,” said Erika Woelfel, the vice president of color marketing at BEHR. “Before fully committing to a hue, make sure it’s one you’ll love morning, noon and night.”

• Use the right painting supplies High-quality painting tools save you time over the course of your project and produce the most beautiful finish. For best results, use a high quality, lint-free roller cover. Select brushes

made of nylon and polyester and for flawless edges, use a painter’s tape specifically designed for your surface type.

• Spend time preparing for your project Proper preparation is the key to achieving long-lasting color. Begin by removing all the wall fixtures you can such as pictures, doors and light switches. If you have small cracks or holes in your walls, remove any dust and apply a patching material. Make sure to allow this to dry completely before sanding the finished area. Wash away oil, grease or wax stains by dampening the surface, applying mild detergent with a sponge and then rinse the wall clean. Once dried, you’ll be ready for smooth application and beautiful color.

With these five tips and a free afternoon, you can easily refresh the inside of your home into a colorful oasis.

The Crescent-News -Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Tips to keep your garden growing through fall’s chill (BPT) — As summer winds down and frost threatens, even avid gardeners may be tempted to pack up their trowels and call it a season.

You may think it’s better to leave the victory garden gracefully, than risk the disappointment of watching crops wither in chilly temperatures. But fear of frost and failure don’t have to stop you from enjoying a fruitful fall garden. With the right plant choices and a few tricks, producing a hefty harvest can be easy.

A few facts about frost Frost occurs when temperatures drop enough to condense and freeze the moisture in the air. In fall, when air temperatures sink, it’s common to find frost layering the ground, leaves and crops. Frost may occur frequently in the fall before the ground really becomes frozen — known as a hard freeze.

While a hard freeze generally heralds the end of the growing season and frost can harm warm weather crops like oranges, some veggies actually do very well and taste better when nipped by frost. By stocking your fall garden with frostloving varieties, you can ensure your garden remains victorious and bountiful right up to the first hard freeze. Not sure when the hard freeze will occur in your region? Check out the USDA Freeze Map. When you consider the many advantages of fall gardening, frost shouldn’t be feared. Cooler temperatures mean you’ll have a more comfortable experience while working in the garden, and you’ll have fewer insect pests and weeds to deal with.

Frost-friendly choices Just because the growing season is over for summer crops like tomatoes, you don’t have to give up gardening before the cold winter weather. Instead, clear out the remnants of sum-

mer plantings and debris and get the ground ready for fall favorites like spinach, cabbage, collards and kale. These hearty, leafy vegetables — available from Bonnie Plants — actually like the chill weather and can stand up to some frost.

Certain root veggies, such as radishes and turnips, also do well in cooler temperatures. All are packed with nutrients, so you can plant them knowing you’ll be filling your dinner table with fresh, nutritious, great-tasting veggies this fall. For a list of fall-weather favorites, tips and harvest advice visit www.bonnieplants.com.

Get a good start When planning your fall garden, time is of the essence. Start with wellestablished, vigorous plants like those Bonnie Plants offers in some regions at garden retailers.

Starting out with more mature plants not only allows you to get your fall garden growing faster, it helps ensure your vegetables are strong enough to endure unexpected or extreme temperature variations. And remember to choose short-season varieties that will produce quicker in fall’s shorter growing season.

When frost arrives Even though your fall vegetables might be able to handle the cold, you may want an extra layer of protection for unseasonably cool nights. Fortunately, you can do a lot to protect plants from sudden dips in temps.

Growing veggies in the right spot can make a big difference. Choose a location for your garden that gets plenty of sun, especially in the morning when you’ll want plants to quickly shake off overnight chill.

Planting in a raised bed also helps insulate plants and their tender roots from ground freezes. Container gardens are also great for

Fall Home Improvement 2015  15

Photo courtesy of Brandpoint

For a vibrant fall garden, choose cold-weather plants such as radishes, turnips, broccoli and kohlrabi that can

fall; when a severe frost or hard freeze threatens, you can bring plants inside, overnight for protection.

Sometimes you may want to cover plants against extreme cold. One option is a cold frame. Typically constructed of wood and glass or plastic, the frame sits over plants like a portable mini greenhouse. You can build your own — an online search will yield plenty of how-to plans — or purchase a prefabricated one. For less severe situations, simply turning a pot or bucket upside down over tender young plants can be

tolerate a hard frost and still keep producing.

enough to shield them from cold.

When fall arrives, you don’t have to fear frost, or give up your garden.

Success starts with choosing

cold-hearty varieties that prosper and produce well in cool weather. Visit www. bonnieplants.com to learn more about fall vegetables.

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 16 Fall Home Improvement 2015

small space From Page 9

reading nook, in a bright, bold color for a mini-room effect. Or paint a piece of furniture or picture frame and elevate it to something special.

Get creative with cabi-

netry Take advantage of cabinetry with built-in storage features, from pullout racks that create added pantry space, to bathroom cabinets equipped with laundry hampers, hairdryer hooks and bins for grooming items.

shower From Page 5

since people are significantly expanding the size of their showers during renovations. Larger showers are ideal paces for relaxation and rejuvenation, and walk-in showers with oversize panes of glass, multiple water sources and oversize rain showers are becoming increasingly popular. Smart controls for controlling water patterns and flow volume enhance the experience.

• Conserving water in the shower is good for your wallet and your soul. Water costs can vary widely depending on where you live in the country. No matter where you live, however, reducing the amount of water you use will decrease both your water bill and your utility bill (electric or gas, depending on which fuels your water heater). To calculate how much you could save, you first need to get a better idea of how much water you use. The USGS Water Science School offers a great online water use calculator. Once you know how much water you use, you can take steps to reduce consumption, including: Installing more efficient showerheads, reducing shower time to about 5 minutes and using technology such as thermostatic valves and digital controls to shower more efficiently.

Using less water is good for the environment, so you can feel positively about your water conservation efforts, all without losing any enjoyment of your shower experience. To learn more about more efficient and enjoyable showering, visit www.grohe.com.

Stabilize Or Raise Buildings New or Existing Construction • Homes • Commerical Buildings • Installs In Limited Access Situations • Approved by Both National Building Codes

• Chimney Repairs • Equipment Bases • Retaining Walls • Ideal Around Lake Areas

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The Crescent-News -Wednesday, September 16, 2015