JOIN US AT THE March 19
2022
SPRING 2022 HOME IMPROVEMENT A Special Supplement to
Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | 2
s ’ r e z l a St
LOCALLY OWNED
FURNITURE MATTRESS & MOVING OVER 80 YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE Serving Iowa for over 40 years 1982-2022
“Over 6800 Households Moved” WE TRAVEL THE 5 STATE AREA
MATTRESS & MOVING 908 Iowa Ave, West 641-753-5219 641-750-4286 Mon.-Fri. 10:00 - 5:30 pm Saturday 9:00 - 5:00 pm Sunday 12:00-3:00 pm
Best of the 2021
Stalzer’s Has 3-Bld For All Your For Furnitur
Q
Stalzer’s Has 3-Bldgs For All Your For Furniture Needs!
Quality New Furniture We look forward to the coming years and helping you with all we have to offer-
Re
timesrepublican.com
Furniture, Mattress & Moving!! Stalzer’s Has 3-Bldgs Near-New Furniture Needs! For All Your Has For Furniture Stalzer’s 3-BldgsNeeds! For All Your Furniture
Quality New Furniture Near-New Furniture
Retro-Antique Furniture Stop on out and
Bar
T
Many people take to the great outdoors to escape the increasingly tech-driven daily grind. Though that’s an understandable perspective, gardeners who aren’t deploying tech in their home gardens could be missing out on a host of benefits that could help their plants, flowers and vegetables thrive. Devices like smartphones and tablets have made many aspects of life easier and more efficient, and various tech products can do the same when working in the garden. • Plant monitor: Plant monitors are sensors that can keep tabs on the health of plants and deliver that information to gardeners. Plant monitors often connect to smartphones via Bluetooth and can deliver information on the amount of heat, light and water a plant is getting. Sensors vary in price, and some will provide more information than others. But these sensors are ideal for gardeners who love their plants but often forget to check up on them each day. • Garden camera: Critters and insects are the bane of many gardeners’ existence. Determining just what is nibbling away at flowers and plants isn’t always so easy, as many animals are savvy enough to restrict their dining to the middle of the night and insects are
so small they can be hard to spot. Garden cameras can serve as the watchmen of a garden and gardeners can review footage to determine just who is compromising all of their hard work. They can then use that knowledge to remedy the situation and give their plants a better chance to thrive. • Weather station: Even the most seasoned gardeners cannot document the conditions outside as effectively as a good weather sensor. Weather sensors track conditions such as temperature, relative humidity and air quality. This information can then be paired with irrigation devices to ensure plants get all the care they need to thrive throughout the season. • Garden hub: Avid gardeners have traditionally had to arrange for neighbors or loved ones to tend to their plants when they leave home for vacation or weekend getaways. Garden hubs can take care of that by pairing with smart irrigation systems that ensure plants are watered even when no one is home. Certain hubs even gather and analyze local weather conditions to develop a watering schedule to ensure plants thrive. These hubs aren’t just handy when on vacation, as they can be great for gardeners who want to know things about their plants that are not appar-
FENCING SOLUTIONS Steve Slifer 641-750-0478 steve@fencingsolutionsiowa.com Visit Our Booth at the Spring Home & Garden Show
www.FencingSolutionsIowa.com
ent to the naked eye. People may see their gardens as welcome respites from their devices. But garden gadgets can help plants thrive and make time in the garden that much more enjoyable. GT224835
Fencing Solutions specializes in commercial and residential fencing, including chain-link, vinyl, wood, and ornamental. Fencing Solutions is family owned and operated with an extensive range of services, from installation and upgrades to maintenance and emergency repairs.
3 | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa
Tech to make gardening more fun
timesrepublican.com
Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | 4
How to pick the right trees for your property Trees benefit a landscape by serving both aesthetic and utilitarian functions. A home surrounded by healthy green trees can be a sight to behold, and those same trees can benefit surrounding plants and wildlife at the same time. As appealing as trees are, not all trees and landscapes make for the perfect match. The Arbor Day Foundation notes the importance of planning when designing a landscape. Planning ensures the trees homeowners ultimately choose for their properties will grow well in the soil and moisture present in their yards. Careful consideration of a handful of variables can help homeowners determine which trees will make the best fit for their properties. • Height: Homeowners must consider the projected height of a tree before planting it. Avoid trees that will bump into anything when fully grown, as that can adversely affect surrounding greenery and pose a safety hazard. The ADF’s tree sizing guide can be accessed at https://www.arborday.org/trees/rightTreeAndPlace/size.cfm and serves as an invaluable resource
GANNAWAY CONSTRUCTION WE DO
timesrepublican.com
for homeowners who want to plant new trees around their properties. • Canopy spread: Trees grow out as well as up, so it’s important to consider their potential width at maturity as well. The ADF sizing guide can help homeowners get an idea of how wide a tree is likely to be at maturity. Trees that spread out quite a bit don’t necessarily need to be avoided, but it’s important that they’re planted far enough apart so they don’t adversely affect surrounding plants. In addition, wide trees that are planted too close together can make the landscape appear crowded, taking something away from its aesthetic appeal. • Growth rate: Growth rate is an important variable because it can affect how quickly homeowners will see changes in their landscapes. Homeowners who want to plant for privacy can consider trees with quick growth rates or purchase more mature trees that are already near full growth. Those who are not in need of instant transformation can try trees with slower growth rates, which the ADF notes typically live longer than fast-growing species.
• Requirements: Different trees require different amounts of sun and moisture and different soil components to thrive. Homeowners can have their soil tested to determine which trees will thrive in it. Local garden centers can be a great resource for homeowners who want insight as to which trees will thrive in their local climates. Trees serve many functions on a property. Choosing the right trees for a landscape requires careful consideration of a host of variables. GT224821
VISIT OUR BOOTH AT THE HOME & GARDEN SHOW
• • • • •
Roofing Windows Siding Doors Gutters & Guards • Soffit & Fascia
gannawayconstruction@hotmail.com
641-485-0267 - Matt
As fall inches closer to winter, it’s not uncommon for people to look to the coming cold with a degree of lament. Spring, summer and fall provide ample opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors, but such chances are few and far between once the winter freeze settles in. Though winter might compel the masses to huddle up inside, there’s still a way to take in the great outdoors on cold winter days and nights. It might not prove an exact substitute for summer nights around the firepit, but a sunroom affords homeowners a chance to marvel at snowy winter landscapes without venturing out into the cold. Sometimes referred to as “all-season rooms,” sunrooms can make for a great retreat on quiet summer mornings or crisp autumn afternoons. Sunrooms can be treated as blank canvasses, which makes decorating them more fun. But a few tricks of the trade can help homeowners turn their blank canvasses into welcoming spaces to take in all that nature has to offer throughout the year. • Define the purpose. The experts at Better Homes & Gardens recommend homeowners decide how they want to use the sunroom before they begin dec-
orating it. When the weather gets too chilly to dine outside, will the sunroom serve as an alternative dining space in the same way patios and decks do during the warm weather? Or do homeowners want to turn their sunrooms into reading rooms? Though it’s possible to make sunrooms multipurpose spaces, it may be hard to create a relaxing vibe in rooms that are too crowded with furnishings or too busy. Defining how the space will be used also makes it easier when shopping for furnishings. • Define when the room will be used. In addition to defining how the room will be used, homeowners should give ample consideration to when the room will be used. A year-round sunroom will need to be heated, while a three-season sunroom likely won’t require heating. Cooling might be a concern on hot summer afternoons, but many homeowners will likely spend such days outside anyway, so cooling the room may be as simple as installing a ceiling fan and ensuring windows can be opened to let fresh air in. Homeowners who want a year-round sunroom should install insulated glass to keep the room even warmer when the mercury dips.
• Opt for bright colors. Bright colors can make sunrooms feel all the more inviting and make for a perfect match with all the natural light already in the room. The renovation experts at HGTV note that white walls and ceilings can maximize the warm illumination of the natural light that will be pouring in from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Better Homes & Gardens adds that brightly colored cushions, pillows and area rugs with similarly hued colors and patterns can add visual interest and texture to a sunroom. • Make use of a view. Homeowners needn’t direct too much of their focus on decor if their sunrooms come with a view. Art on the walls and other decorative items around the room are less important if a sunroom affords a view of the ocean or a lake or dense woods that attract local wildlife. In rooms with a view, arrange furniture so residents and guests can comfortably look outward and take in all the surround landscape has to offer. Sunrooms are a great place to take in nature no matter the weather. FH218178
Cartwright Downtown Farmer’s Market
108 North 2nd Avenue
At the historic Cartwright Pavilion!
Since 1985
Marshalltown , Iowa
5 | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa
How to create a sunroom
2022 Season
May 4th - October 29th Wednesdays 4-7pm (Sept-Oct 4-6 pm)
Saturdays 9-12pm
www.facebook.com/CartwrightPavilionFarmersMarket
timesrepublican.com
Contact us ! 641-351-9181 cartwright.market@gmail.com Follow us on Facebook for fun family activities, community events and more!
Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | 6
Popular insect repellant plants Homeowners choose plants for their properties based on a number of variables. Some may be into growing their own foods, while others desire their gardens to be an awe-inspiring mélange of bright colors and alluring scents. There’s no wrong reason to plant a fresh garden, but some plants offer extra benefits, such as repelling insects. Insects can be a nuisance and a threat to individuals’ overall health. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, insect-borne diseases are viral and bacterial illnesses that develop from insect bites. Mosquitoes, sand flies and fleas are some examples of insects that can pass on disease. Fever, chills, headache, and muscle soreness are just a few of the more common symptoms linked to insect-borne diseases. The good news for avid gardeners is that certain plants can help repel insects and provide the additional benefits like fresh food and aesthetic appeal that so many people love. • Basil: The aroma of fresh basil is enough to compel any gardener to make a place for it in their garden. But there’s more to fresh basil than its scent, as the
Farmers Almanac notes it can be used to repel mosquitoes and moths. • Lavender: Fleas, flies, mosquitoes, and moths are not fans of this aromatic and colorful member of the mint family. Bees tend to be drawn to lavender, a durable plant that many garden centers recommend in areas prone to drought or hot summers without much precipitation. • Mint: Mint is another plant that is instantly recognizable for its aroma. But mint lovers may not realize that it’s also great for keeping ants at bay. Mint also can be used to repel mosquitoes, but gardeners with no experience planting mint should plant it in pots. That’s because the Farmers Almanac notes mint is an especially aggressive spreader that can quickly take over a garden. Separating mint in pots can prevent it from bullying its way into other plants’ domains. • Lemongrass: Lemongrass is a tropical grass that’s so fragrant it’s often used in perfumes. Lemongrass contains citronella, which many people associate with repelling mosquitoes. A potted lemongrass plant can repel these unwanted guests, keeping them away from decks, porches and/or patios all summer long.
We Protect Your Home For You. No Hassles! Look for us at The 2022 Home Show March 19 We Specialize in Residential, Commercial, & Farm Pest Control Services
• Chrysanthemums: The Farmers’ Almanac® recommends using chrysanthemums, which repel a range of insects from bedbugs to fleas to ants, as border plants around a home. That’s because they contain the natural insecticide pyrethrin, which can serve as something of an insect-repelling boundary around a home. Insects are unwanted guests around a home each spring, summer and fall. Certain plants can help repel insects and serve as an eco-friendly alternative to insecticides. GT224822
LONDON AND PARIS DISCOVERY
LUXURY MOTORCOACH TRIP October 25 – November 2, 2022
FREE AIRFARE until March 31, 2022 WWW.DJCOUNTRYTOURS.COM • PHONE: (641) 990-1925 EMAIL: DJCOUNTRYTOURS@GMAIL.COM JANINE, PRESIDENT
FUN, QUALITY BUS TOURS A FULL TRAVEL EXPERIENCE
timesrepublican.com
AN AMAZING VACATION
625 W. Lincoln Way, Marshalltown, IA 50158 641-752-0986 • www.schendelpestcontrol.com
BEFORE BEFORE
The future of health care in Marshalltown is here. Take a tour, enjoy light refreshments and register to win a FitBit for adults or a bike for kids.
Open House
Saturday, April 23, 2022, 9-11:30 a.m.
BEFORE
AFTER AFTER
AFTER
55 UnityPoint Way, Marshalltown (formerly South Campus)
FREE ESTIMATES BEFORE
www.LeafFilter.com
$
AFTER
Promo Number: 99
250 OFF
FULL HOME INSTALLATION NOTE: E.R. opens at new hospital Wednesday, April 27 at 7 a.m.
www.LeafFilter.com
$
fd
Marshall County Veterans Affairs We provide information & assistance to all Veterans!
Including Applications for:
Promo Number: 99
Must present at time of estimate. Not valid with any other offers. 100 ft minimum.
250 OFF Electric Fiscus
FULL HOME INSTALLATION Must present at time of estimate. Not valid with any other offers. 100 ft minimum.
7 | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa
GRAND OPENING
641-754-6335
timesrepublican.com
101 East Main St., Marshalltown
$ $
2 2
FUL FUL
URGENTLY NEEDED: VOLUNTEER DRIVERS
• VA Medical Care • Annual Income Verification • Service - Connected Disability Compensation • Non - Service Connected Pension • DIC benefits for survivors • Replacement military records and awards • VA Disability fishing/hunting license • The Iowa Veterans Home • Veterans License Plates
w w
Not
Not
Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | 8 timesrepublican.com
Design ideas to give your home a farmhouse feel Farmhouse style homes are having a moment. A 2020 survey from Homes.com asked more than 5,000 adults across the United States about their favorite house style from a list that included bohemian craftsman, mid-century modern ranch, French chateau, and Tudor, among others. Modern farmhouse was the runaway winner, as participants in 42 of the 50 states indicated this simple, cozy style was their favorite. Home renovation projects can help homeowners put their own unique stamp on their homes, and such projects can be both aesthetic and functional in nature. The following are some farmhouse design elements homeowners can consider as they look to transform their home interiors with this popular style in mind. • Exposed beams: Exposed beams instantly evoke images of a farmhouse. The home improvement experts at BobVila.com note that this rustic renovation project can utilize real wood or faux beams that look like the real thing. Decorative beams that have nothing to do with a home’s structural integrity can be installed by skilled do-it-yourselfers. However, even faux beams are heavy, and BobVila.com recommends
homeowners have an engineer assess their existing structure prior to installation. • Distressed wood finishes: Distressing is designed to make something look less than perfect. Distressed wood finishes can be found throughout many farmhouse style homes. Furniture and picture frames can provide the distressed look farmhouse fans are looking for. This is a relatively inexpensive project that many homeowners can tackle on their own after watching some online tutorials that recommend the right tools and techniques to get the job done right. • Kitchen sink: Many components combine to create a truly classic farmhouse kitchen. But perhaps no component is more essential than the classic farmhouse sink. The renovation experts at HGTV note that a classic farmhouse sink features a deep, wide basin. Farmhouse sinks are large enough to handle all the dishes that come after a big family meal. Oldfashioned porcelain sinks are worth consideration by homeowners who want their kitchen sinks to evoke a traditional farmhouse feel. • Countertops: HGTV recommends butcher block countertops for homeowners who favor European
farmhouse style. Homeowners overhauling their kitchens to create a farmhouse feel should consider installing a large island with a walnut butcher block countertop for an authentic farmhouse feel. Farmhouse style homes are wildly popular. Some simple renovations can help homeowners with a fondness for farmhouse style bring this classic look into their homes. FH218159
“We take pride in our original and creative kitchen designs. Our expert designer will work with you to create your dream kitchen.”
811 Iowa Ave W, Marshalltown, IA 50158 iowakitchenco.com
641-758-3085
• Federal & State Tax Incentives • Sales & Property Tax Exemptions • Business/Ag Depreciation • 25 Year Power Production Warranty
Showing the “BEFORE”
NO
closing costs or annual fees!*
• NABCEP Certified Team • 5 Year Service Contact • Turn-key- We’ve got you covered from start to finish! CALL MIKE DUNN YOUR LOCAL SOLAR ENERGY SPECIALIST
We Partner With: of Marshalltown michael@1sourcesolar.com 641-352-0022 www.1sourcesolar.com
is half the fun! Offer Extended!
Finance all of your home improvement projects with a HOME EQUITY LINE OF CREDIT from MEMBERS1st... and don’t forget to take some “before” pictures!
Scan to get started.
1-800-245-6199 • www.MEMBERS1st.com Ames • Boone • Eldora • Iowa Falls • Marshalltown • Traer
*No closing costs offer excludes the cost of a full appraisal, if needed. Minimum qualifying credit line of $25,000 and a required 1st advance of $10,000, and a loan-to-value equal to or lower than 85%. Other terms, restrictions and fees may apply for loans with a loan-to-value greater than 85%. An appraisal is required for loans with a loan-to-value greater than 85%. The range of costs for the appraisal is between $550.00 to $1250.00, and the applicant is responsible for this cost. hoME1st Equity Line of Credit is an adjustable rate product and may adjust quarterly. Refinance of existing M1CCU loans not eligible. Subject to membership, credit and underwriting guidelines. Max. Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is 18%. The Index rate is the Prime Rate as published in the Wall Street Journal on the date, 60 days prior to any scheduled rate adjustment, plus a margin with a floor rate of 4.250%. The current fully indexed rate is 4.250% APR for a loan-to-value up to 85% & 4.750%APR for a loan-to-value up to 100% with a qualifying credit score. There are no annual fees: however, there may be an early termination charge applied if the line of credit is closed within 36 months of opening. Property Insurance required. Offer available for a limited time and may be discontinued without notice. Federally insured by NCUA, Equal Opportunity Lender, NMLS#461085
Top Crafters is dedicated to building and installing the very best countertops. We work around your budget to create your dream space. We have a broad selection of laminate, quartz, granite, and solid surface. We can help you pick out the best countertop for your space.
timesrepublican.com
811 Iowa Ave W, Marshalltown, IA 50158 TopCrafters.net 641-752-2465
9 | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa
Time for SOLAR? Choose LOCAL? Call Mike
Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | 10
JOIN US AT THE
2022 SAT., MARCH 19 • 10 AM - 3 PM MHS ROUNDHOUSE (SOUTH ENTRANCE)
Register to win door prizes! $100 HYVEE GIFT CARD
timesrepublican.com
ISLE OF GREEN $50 GIFT CARD
RECLINER by
$50 Real Deals Gift Card An OVERNIGHT STAY and Dinner for 2 at
36 MONTHS INTEREST
FREE Historic Inn
SECTIONALS IN-STOCK
FREE N! O I S S I ADM
FEATURING:
SMOKIN GʼS BBQ MARIAʼS TACOS MFD FIRE TRUCK, MPD BIKE SAFETY & CAPS ACTIVITY
Kids’ Planting Activi
Q
ity
American Greenscapes Anchored Walls Inc. Bath Fitter Bath Planet of Iowa Cartwright Downtown Farmers Market DJ Country Tours, Inc. Fencing Solutions
LeafFilter North of Iowa, LLC Marshall County Veterans Affairs McGregors Furniture & Mattress Members1st Credit Union Myers Home Improvements Real Deals Schendel Pest Control
Fiscus Electric
Sunset Village/ Continental Communities
Gannaway Construction
Tailored Living
Home Helpers
Timber Creek Countertops
Kapaun & Brown
Unity Point
Karl Auto Group
U.S. Cellular
timesrepublican.com
, Y Y
1 Source Solar of Marshalltown
11 | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa
:
VISIT THESE HOME & GARDEN PROFESSIONALS
Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | 12
KAPAUN & BROWN HEATING & COOLING The Exclusive Premier Lennox Dealer
Beofsthte
Besrts. 17 y
Bryan, Keith, Josh and Bennett Brown
Celebrating 4 Generations of Excellence!
timesrepublican.com
1002 W. Lincolnway Marshalltown 641-753-3563 Where quality is a promise for 47 years
kapaunandbrowninc.com
Serving Marshalltown for 49 YEARS With hometown service, quality paint, window treatments, floor covering and decorating services. We Are Your Trusted Choice!
Voted in 2021 BEST “Paint Store” & “Flooring Store”
Being passionately committed to providing world class hospitality, high quality food and peaceful hostelry for our guests is our mission. Outstanding, creative service to each and every customer is our daily quest. The Tremont’s vision is to provide places of uncompromised social and business leadership in the areas of corporate meetings, dining and overnight stays in our Inn to the surprise and delight of our customers.
11 E. Meadow Lane Marshalltown
752-5451
M-F 8:00am - 5:00pm Sat 8:30am -3:00pm
www.strands.biz
Contact Us: 641.752.1234 www.tremontonmain.com • jen@tremontonmain.com 24 W Main St., Marshalltown, IA 50158
13 | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa
THE TREMONT
• •Custom Acrylic Bathtub Liners and and WallWall Surrounds Custom Acrylic Bathtub Liners Surrounds Come Visit Us At • •Remove existing bathtub, install walk-in shower Remove existing bathtub, install walk-in shower The Home Show! • •Accessories - Shower doors, grabgrab bars,bars, window kits and Accessories - Shower doors, window kitsmore and more • •Easy to clean No more scrubbing! Easy to clean - No more scrubbing! • •Guaranteed - our systems staystay water tight!tight! Will not crackor crack Guaranteed - our systems water Willchip, not dent, chip,stain dent,orstain
641-482-3653 Serving Central Iowa Since 1988
515-218-7875
Owners: Dirk & Sarah Kielman, Melbourne www.iowabathsystems.com www.iowabathsystems.com
timesrepublican.com
Call for a FREE phone quote:
Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | 14
KEEPING BASEMENTS STABLE+DRY+SAFE BASEMENT WATERPROOFING | BOWED WALLS | FOUNDATION REPAIR
BASEMENT WATERPROOFING
CRAWL SPACE REPAIR | ESCAPE + EGRESS WINDOWS
BOWED WALLS | FOUNDATION REPAIR
CALLSPACE 515.462.2422 FOR +FREE ESTIMATES CRAWL REPAIR | ESCAPE EGRESS WINDOWS 1962 Highway 92, Winterset, IA 50273 | anchoredwalls.com
timesrepublican.com
CALL 515.462.2422 FOR FREE ESTIMATES 1962 Highway 92, Winterset, IA 50273 | anchoredwalls.com
Mother Nature can be harsh on a lawn, and it’s up to homeowners to nurse their lawns back to health after they endure the elements. That’s often the case when winter ends and homeowners uncover signs of damage to their lawns. Homeowners cannot begin to repair winter lawn damage until they learn to identify it, and the following are some telltale signs that winter took a harsh toll on a landscape. • Wilted grass: Many things can cause grass to wilt over the course of winter, so homeowners may have to put on their sleuth’s cap to determine why grass that was healthy as recently as late fall is now wilted as the spring bloom begins. Grass that’s adjacent to walkways and driveways might have wilted due to the application of de-icing solutions. Such products can prevent the formation of ice on driveways and walkways. However, when they’re tracked onto the grass by people or animals or blown there by winter winds, grass can wilt. A deep watering in spring can flush any lingering solution from the lawn. In future winters, homeowners can be as careful as possible when applying de-icing solutions, making a con-
certed effort to avoid spreading any onto the grass and limited applications to areas of the driveway and walkways that are not close to the grass. • Brown patches: The National Association of Landscape Professionals notes that brown patches in a lawn often develop after heavy snowfall. Such patches tend to develop where large piles of shoveled snow were deposited, so homeowners can inspect alongside driveways and walkways. The NALP advises homeowners to rake away part of the brown patches first. If green tissue is emerging beneath, then the lawn will likely be fine in due time. However, if the area beneath is not green and surrounding areas are already turning green, homeowners may need to rake up dead tissue before applying topsoil to the affected spots. Once topsoil is spread, some grass seed can be spread and the grass should regain its green glory. • Gray or pink grass: Another indicator of winter lawn damage linked to snow is gray or pink grass. The NALP reports that this is a byproduct of snow mold caused by lingering snow. Action may be unnecessary, as the NALP notes these circular patterns
often go away on their own. If not, raking the affected areas might be enough to get the lawn on the road to recovery. If the issue continues to linger after raking, a topsoil application and subsequent seeding may be necessary. These are three common signs of winter lawn damage in areas where snowfall is significant during the coldest months of the year. Homeowners concerned about their damaged lawns are urged to contact a local landscape professional to correct any issues that linger into spring. GT224832
Visit Our Booth at the Home & Garden Show
Timber Creek Countertops
15 | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa
Signs of winter lawn damage
~ Russ D. Paul ~
* Concrete Countertops Soft Appearance & Warm Earthy Natural Stone Feel
* Butcher Block Countertops Warm Natural Wood Tones & Beautiful Color Shades
* Countertop Restoration
Call 641-751-6440 for more info & FREE ESTIMATES Timbercreekcountertops.com rdpaul@timbercreekcountertops.com
Landscaping Design and Installation, Custom Flower Containers, Yard Clean ups/ Pruning, and Residential Lawn Mowing. American Greenscapes, Marshalltown Call Steve 641-854-0636
timesrepublican.com
Refinish Laminate Tops with a Durable Concrete Overlay.
Kitchens Bath Bar Fireplace Islands Office Patio
Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | 16
Low-cost ways to revamp living areas Home improvement projects require substantial financial investment. But just because a homeowner wants to bring a fresh look indoors doesn’t mean he or she has to break the bank along the way. Living rooms are some of the most frequently used spaces in a home, and they can use an update from time to time to stay on trend or to make the area more functional for a changing family dynamic. Here are some budget-friendly ideas for breathing new life into living room designs. • Establish the budget. Homeowners should figure out how many dollars they can designate to a living room makeover before purchasing supplies or hiring out the work. Figure out the scope of the remodel, visit stores or suppliers to price out materials, get estimates from contractors, and then plan for some unforseen circumstances along the way to determine if this type of renovation is affordable. If not, scale things back until the project more closely aligns with your budget. • Change the paint color. Lighter and brighter colors are on trend. A can or two of paint can do wonders for updating a space without a large financial commitment. Pair that new paint color with new window coverings and complementary throw pillows to pull
the theme together with minimal expense. • Update the flooring. Tired, outdated carpeting or other flooring can use an overhaul. While solid hardwood flooring may be preferable, there are many types of laminate flooring that mimic the looks of popular wood colors and styles for a fraction of the cost. Plus, many are sold at home improvement retailers and even at warehouse clubs or online for reasonable prices. Laminate flooring also may be a potential DIY job for a skilled homeowner, saving even more money. • Introduce a fireplace. Fireplaces were once hot commodities, but that popularity waned in the 1970s and 1980s. Homeowners with chimneys may discover a fireplace was boarded over and the bare bones still exist that can be renovated to bring back character. There also are ventless freestanding units that are quite affordable that can mimic the look of a built-in fireplace. • Reupholster instead of replace furniture. There’s no need to throw away quality furniture if the fabric is the only thing impeding design. New upholstery or even a slipcover can update designs. • Conquer clutter. Rather than adding something
to the living room, remove clutter to give the room a more airy feel. This can instantly change the look of the room. Use cord covers to tame plugs for electronics and remove unnecessary furniture from the room. • Improve lighting. Another easy and often inexpensive fix is to change lighting fixtures, including using brighter, more energy efficient LED bulbs, and to assess lighting needs to eliminate dark corners of rooms that can make the space seem drab. Living room spaces in need of an update often can benefit from improvements that go easy on the wallet. SH222677
DON’T have the time for Chores, DISLIKE doing them or simply CAN’T anymore? We CAN!!
Now serving **Marshall County** Work done by friendly & trustworthy staff.
VISIT OUR BOOTH INDOOR CHORES
CHANGE your Bedding, your Furnace Filters, your Light Bulbs CHANGE and Supply Softener Salts CLEAN your House, Ceiling fans, Oven, Fridge DEFROST your Freezer DECLUTTER your House & TRANSPORT unwanted items WASH your Clothes, your Dishes, your Windows ORGANIZE items for Garage Sale or an Estate Sale
HOME DÉCOR & FASHION FOR timesrepublican.com
every style & season! OPEN THURS 10-6, FRI 10-5, & SAT 10-4 122 E. Main St., Downtown Marshalltown www.realdeals.net/marshalltown @RealDealsMarshalltown
Join our fan club!
CLOCKS • SEASONAL • MIRRORS • WALL ART • TOPS • DRESSES • JEWELRY • JEANS & MUCH MORE
*** And so much more... just ask!
OUTDOOR CHORES
SNOW*** Removal and Salting (and more) CHANGE Storm Windows, Screens and regular Ext. Windows CLEAN your Ext. Air Conditioner Coils, your Garage, Gutters on 1 story home ORGANIZE your Garage YARD WORK - Prune Shrubs, Edge, Mulch, Mow and Spread Bug Deterrent / Grab grass killer / Weed and Feed
https://www.facebook.com/HomeHelpersRequest
Juli • (319) 266-3935
Open-concept homes have become increasingly popular in recent years. An open-concept home is one in which the rooms flow into one another with limited obstruction from walls or other barriers. According to the National Association of Home Builders, 84 percent of new single-family homes have fully or partially open layouts. While they may seem like a new trend, open floor plans are anything but. Early American homes featured open, often one- or two-room units built around the central kitchen/hearth. This maximized warmth and functionality. Homes evolved as incomes grew, and soon homes had several smaller rooms with specialized functions. What’s old has become new again. However, before diving head first into a new home purchase or a big renovation to realize an open-concept dream, consider the pros and cons of this type of setup to determine if it’s really right for you. Advantages of open floor plans Open floor plans facilitate the flow of natural light throughout a space and can promote air flow, helping
to reduce warm or cool pockets of air in otherwise closed-off rooms. Open homes make socializing easier, even when people are doing different things. While someone is cooking dinner in the kitchen, he or she can still interact with someone else playing video games in the family room or paying bills in the home office. Entertaining also is easier, as mingling with guests is much more convenient when walls are not getting in the way. A smaller home can feel much larger if it employs an open concept. The square footage is not divided into smaller quarters, which sometimes are rooms (such as formal dining rooms) that are only used a few times per year. This eliminates underused spaces and opens up sight lines in the layout. The value of real estate has risen dramatically since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and prospective buyers may prefer an open-concept plan because it can help them minimize building costs. Disadvantages of open floor plans Open layouts are not for everyone. The same sense
s • Roofing••Windows Windows • Siding• Roofing • Roofing Entry • Siding Doors • Siding • Entry • Seamless •Doors Entry• Seamless Doors Gutters • Gutters Seamless Gutters Building & Remodeling • Kitchens mplete Building ••Complete &Complete Remodeling Building &•Remodeling Kitchens • Kitchens & Baths & Baths & Baths
of space that occurs when walls are taken down may make rooms feel cavernous and less cozy, particularly in homes with ample square footage. In addition, privacy can be hard to come by when all rooms feed into one another. When the kitchen is not separate from the family room space, that makes it easy for noise to compromise the area’s comfort levels. There is no hiding from noise in an open floor plan, as sounds from voices, television shows and appliances tend to echo and blend together. And if the home is a single-story layout, those noises from the main living areas also may carry to adjacent bedrooms. Smoke and smells are another thing to consider. When something on the stove spills over, a small range hood will not be practical for clearing smoke from a large space. Though the aroma of freshly cooked food is enticing, it can make it hard for cooks to keep guests out of the kitchen. Open-concept homes are popular, but homeowners should weigh the pluses and minuses to see if this trend is truly right for them. SH222669
THE NATIONWIDE NETWORK ENGINEERED BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS.
71%
34%
30,000
Our Network
Our Plans
Our Company
We’re bringing 5G to communities outside NYC & LA because everyone deserves to experience faster speeds.
Wireless plans that work for you because they were custom-built for the towns they serve.
We connect millions of people, businesses and government operations across your community.
OF locals would recommend us to other locals.*
of new customer’s switch because of our customer service.*
17 | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa
Pros and cons to open-concept homes
hours of community service and counting. We’re not just a network, we’re a network of volunteers.*
18 Years
of Business!
319-240-1272 319-240-1272 319-240-1272
Tel: 641-751-7000 • Fax: 641-751-7070 Store Hours: M-Sat 10am-7pm Sun Closed
timesrepublican.com
901 S. Center St., Marshalltown, IA 50158
Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | 18 timesrepublican.com
The SUN is out. We are getting ready to get started - are you? See you soon!!
Professional Window Treatments by 28 years experience Best Price in town. Shades, Blinds, Drapes, Sheers,Valances Measure, Select & Install Julie Miller
641-750-0409
30 E.Main St.
julie@jthomasinteriors.net
ESCAPE ON MAIN SALON
Open Station Available $300 mo. Call 750-0409
609 S. 9th St., Marshalltown
641-752-1999 www.isleofgreen.com
N the SEASO r fo N O O S o OPENING Facebook als our ads & watch TR for
For your Packaged Garden gardening friends Seeds are here... GIFT Coming Soon: Seed Potatoes & CERTIFICATES make great gifts Onion Sets HIRING Part-Time Seasonal CALL& leave a message
Go Green this Spring with Isle of Green
Special Discount code: TIMES 22
19 | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa
2022
SCAN HERE TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND APPLY TODAY!
timesrepublican.com
Promotion Code: Times22 • Mention this code & receive $250 in FREE RENT!
Times-Republican | Marshalltown, Iowa | Sunday, March 13, 2022 | Home & Garden 2022 | 20
Spring Blowout SALE at
pentz appliance
6 Day Sale • Mon., March 14 thru Sat. March 19 Mon - Fri 8am - 4:30pm • OPEN ALL DAY SATURDAY, MARCH 19TH, 8 AM - 4:30 PM
10% OFF
Every Item Instock
15% OFF
Every Item Instock if paid by
CASH
timesrepublican.com
APPLIANCES: GE, WHIRLPOOL, FRIGIDAIRE, BOSCH, SAMSUNG, LG
13 S. Center St. Marshalltown www.pentzappliance.com
For Sales & Service of Everything Appliance Come See “The Pentz Team”