2021 Fall Home and Auto by Roswell Daily Record

October 2021 A Special Supplement to the

Roswell Daily Record

Pruning Pointers

Auto

How to prune perennials prior to winter

DIY Tips Home improvement projects tips

Tire Tips before buying new tires

RV Tips for first-time RV drivers

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OCTOBER 2021 • ROSWELL DAILY RECORD

Auto

Roswell Daily Record STAFF Publisher........................................Barbara Beck General Manager.......................SaraLei Fajardo Editor.............................................. John Dilmore Composing Director.........................Aric Loomis Layout & Design...............................Aric Loomis Advertising Director.................Manny Gonzalez Advertising Sales..........................Melanie Page Advertising Sales..................... Merle Alexander Ad Design.................................. Sandra Martinez Contributing Writers........................Lisa Dunlap

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OCTOBER 2021 • ROSWELL DAILY RECORD

Chaves County home sales, prices continue to rise Area broker says seasonal slowdown beginning

Submitted Photo Ramona Kilpatrick, president of the Roswell Association of Realtors Board of Directors

By Lisa Dunlap Roswell Daily Record

The local housing market is starting its typical end-of-year slowdown, an area broker says, but sales and pricing continue to remain strong. “Ten years ago, you could figure that maybe we’d have 10 or 15 houses a month sold,” said Ramona Kilpatrick, the president of the board of directors for the Roswell Association of Realtors.

“Now we are looking at 40 to 60 houses being sold.” The economic and labor disruptions that began to hit New Mexico in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic did not result in a drastic housing downturn for most months, said Kilpatrick, who also is an associate broker with the Artesia office of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Enchanted Lands Realtors. In fact, data shows sales volume and prices increased for the year. She added that the next few months likely will bring less activity. “It is typical for October, November and December to be a little bit slower than other months,” Kilpatrick said, “but, even with that, we are still above the median.” She said multiple offers are still typical on homes in the local market. While sellers are not likely to see offers well above their asking prices, they usually can get close to the amount they want. She added that, with the seasonal slowing of the market, potential buyers should consider it a good time to look for a new home. “People have a conception that it is not a good time to buy during the holidays,” Kilpatrick said. “Well, no, it is actually a perfect time to buy during the holidays because other people don’t want to look during the holidays. You just might find your dream home and

get it for the price that you want.” She said the area market has all sizes and types of homes available, from new homes just completed to those in need of renovation, and from larger homes to starter homes. By January, the market should pick up again in terms of both sales and prices. “Go ahead and start looking for what you are wanting. Make your game plan for what type you want. Get with a broker and see what you can find,” she recommended. Sales and pricing data available from the New Mexico Association of Realtors, which receives its information from local boards, does indicate that sales volume and prices in the area have increased significantly during the past two years. For example, the year-to-date median price of a home in Chaves County in August 2019 compared to August 2021 has increased almost 25%, from $150,000 two years ago to $187,000 now. For August 2021, the most recent data available, Chaves County had 72 sales, with a median sales price of $229,500. Total sales for the month were $17.68 million. The average time on the market was 80. The county showed 132 active and eight pending listings. Year-to-date sales in the county so far in 2021 have totaled 422, while the

median price for January to August of this year was $187,000. A year ago for the month of August, Chaves County had three sales for a median price of $156,000. Total sales for the month were $596,000. The average time on the market was 83 days. The county had 106 active and four pending listings. Year-to-date sales from January to August 2020 were 272, with a median price of $161,750. In August 2019, Chaves County had 57 home sales with a median price of $150,250. Total sales for the month were $9.94 million. Average time on the market was 80 days. The county had 141 active and 53 pending listings. For the January to August 2019 period, there were 413 home sales with a median price of $150,000. Statewide, year-to-date sales as of August 2021 totaled 17,906 and the median price was $270,000. For January-August 2020, there were 16,783 sales with a median price of $232,000. For January-August 2019, sales totaled 16,915 and the median price was $215,000. Lisa Dunlap can be reached at 575622-7710, ext. 351, or at reporter02@ rdrnews.com.

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OCTOBER 2021 • ROSWELL DAILY RECORD

How to help houseplants survive a long winter

Pre-winter perennial pruning pointers

Metro Creative Services

As fall gradually gives way to winter, gardeners expend ample energy preparing their flowers and plants for the months ahea d. Plants may be pruned

Foliage and football might be two things people instantly associate with fall, but there’s more to this beloved season than brightly colored leaves and action on the gridiron. Gardeners know that spring is an ideal time to plan and plant their favorite flowers and most flavorful fruits and vegetables. However, seasoned gardeners know that gardening is a year-round commitment. Pruning is one of the keys to keeping perennials coming back for years to come, and fall is an ideal time to take on this important task. Pruning perennials in the fall is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, some perennials can be cut down after the first killing frost, while others can be left to benefit wildlife, including birds and insects. Understanding pruning and when to do it this fall can help gardeners lay a strong foundation for their gardens that will benefit them next spring.

to increase the likelihood that they will return in full bloom come the spring, while lawns may be aerated so cool-season grasses can get the nutrients, water and oxygen they need when the temperatures dip. But what about houseplants? Do indoor houseplants need the same type of pre-winter TLC that outdoor plants need before winter arrives? As the seasons change, so, too, do the conditions outside. And those conditions affect indoor houseplants much like they do lawns, gardens and trees. So it’s vital that people with houseplants do not overlook the need to keep houseplants going strong as fall gives way to winter.

Location Hours of daylight shorten in winter, which means some houseplants won’t get as much sun as they were accustomed to over the last several months. That means plants may need to be relocated closer to windows where they can make the most of each day’s sunlight. However, it’s important that there’s ample distance between the plant and the window, especially when winter temperatures get especially cold. If the plants are too close to a window on cold days, they could freeze. Keep them close enough to the windows to get ample sunlight but far enough away so they don’t get too cold. In addition, keep plants away from drafty windows as well as heating vents, as extreme temperatures are not conducive to healthy houseplants. Watering Watering needs also may change when the temperatures drop. The indoor plant experts at Pistils Nursery in Oregon note that all houseplants need less water in winter. In fact, overwatering in winter can be especially harmful to indoor plants. Plant owners can try decreasing the frequency of their watering by half each winter and see how the plants respond.

Cleaning Cleaning plants is another way to help them survive a long winter. Dust settles in many homes in winter, when windows tend to remain closed for months on end and fresh air isn’t circulating around the house as much as it is in spring and summer. Pistil’s Nursery notes that dust inhibits a plant’s ability to photosynthesize, thus compromising its ability to make it through a winter unscathed. Better Homes & Gardens recommends using a soft-bristle paintbrush, a toothbrush or pipe cleaner to remove dust from African violets and other fuzzy-leafed plants. Gently washing plants with a paper towel or cloth that’s been moistened with water can remove the dust. Oils and polishes should not be used to make leaves shine, as these substances can block pores on the plant. Houseplants may need some extra attention in winter as hours of daylight dwindle and indoor conditions make it hard for plants to survive.

Why should some perennials be pruned? The College of Agricultural Sciences at Pennsylvania State University notes that perennials that have become diseased or infested with insects are pruned to prevent those problems from resurfacing in the spring. In addition, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, many herbaceous perennials have old foliage and dying stems after several hard frosts. If dead foliage or dying stems aren’t pruned, disease, slugs and other pests can overwinter in the plants. Cutting these plants down to the ground after several hard frosts allows the base of the plant to remain dormant over the winter but makes the plant less hospitable to disease and insects. Which perennials should I prune? The first step to pruning perennials is to recognize which need to be pruned and which can be left intact for the winter. The Old Farmer’s Almanac notes that

bee balm and phlox are prone to powdery mildew and should be cut back once they’re gone. Hostas harbor slug eggs, so they, too, should be pruned after a hard frost. Hosta leaves that have fallen on the ground should be removed as well. There’s no need to cut back certain perennials if they’re healthy. For example, hardy geraniums do not require pruning in the fall, and Penn State Extension notes that hardy perennials like garden mums are more likely to survive a cold winter if they’re left intact. That’s because the tops of such plants will collect leaves and snow for insulation and moisture over the course of winter. Gardeners who are unsure about fall pruning can speak with their local gardening center for additional advice regarding which plants to cut back before winter. When to prune perennials Gardeners need not rush to prune perennials in the fall. Diseased or infested plants can be pruned at the first sight of disease or infestation, but gardeners can wait until several hard frosts have occurred before they prune healthy perennials. In gardening parlance, a hard frost refers to when temperatures drop below 28 F. Several hard frosts kill the uppermost growth of most perennials, making this an ideal time to prune them. Pruning perennials in fall can be the first step toward creating an awe-inspiring spring garden.

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OCTOBER 2021 • ROSWELL DAILY RECORD

Fresh veggies are not exclusive to spring and summer Metro Creative Services

Spring and summer may be the seasons most often associated with gardening. But people who love to grow their own vegetables can do so even when the weather outside is frightful. Various vegetables thrive in cool temperatures. The home and garden experts at HGTV note that some winter vegetables are hardy. That means they can handle frosts in temperatures as low as 25 F without being damaged. Others are even sturdier in the face of all that winter can throw at them, capable of tolerating temperatures that dip into the high teens. Growing vegetables in winter requires a different approach than growing in spring and summer, as

• Arugula • Broccoli • Brussel sprouts • Cabbage • Carrots

gardeners must be ready to prevent damage from frost if temperatures get especially chilly. For example, the experts at Michigan State University Extension note that gardeners may need to utilize floating row covers to protect sensitive crops from frost. Gardeners interested in planting winter vegetables can speak with a local garden center professional about which crops to plant and what to do if temperatures push winter vegetable gardens to the brink. Though it’s up to gardeners what they want to plant, the following are some popular winter vegetables that can make for wonderful, fresh additions to any dinner table even after the traditional gardening season has come and gone.

• Collard greens • Endive • Parsley • Parsnips • Kale

• Radishes • Rutabagas • Spinach • Swiss chard

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OCTOBER 2021 • ROSWELL DAILY RECORD

Tips before deciding to do a DIY demolition Metro Creative Services

Home improvement projects can range from relatively inexpensive undertakings to complex endeavors that cost homeowners thousands of dollars. In an effort to make expensive projects more affordable, homeowners may look for ways to pitch in, and do-it-yourself demolition is a common way to cut costs. Due to geographical fluctuations in price as well as the scale of a project, it’s hard to pinpoint just how much homeowners can save by doing demolition work themselves. HomeAdvisor estimates that the average small interior demolition project costs just over $3,000, though more significant demolition projects can cost considerably more than that. Given the cost, it’s no surprise that so many homeowners volunteer to do demolition on their own. Though it’s possible to do so safely, homeowners can take steps to determine if it’s in their best interest to take on a DIY demolition or leave it to the professionals. • Conduct a cost analysis. Demolition projects seem simple, but they often require the use of equipment most homeowners don’t have on hand. Rentals can be considered in such instances, but the cost of renting equipment can reduce the amount of money homeowners are saving by going it alone. For example, homeowners may be able to pull up vinyl or tile flooring on their own, but not all floors are installed the same. Some floors may have been glued more effectively than others, making it hard and/or time-consuming to pull them up by hand. A walkbehind floor scraper can make it easier to remove such floors, but that equipment must be rented. A cost analysis comparing the contractors’ demolition cost estimate and the cost of DIY, complete with equipment rental projections, can give a more accurate picture of how much money homeowners will save by going it alone. If the savings of DIY are negligible,

homeowners should probably let the contractor handle the demo. • Speak with your contractor. Prior to saying they’ll do the demo work on their own, homeowners should speak with their contractors to get an accurate idea of what the project will entail. Demolition projects may seem simple enough, but contractors can illustrate the correct way to do things so as to minimize potentially costly damage. Some contractors may offer to help homeowners start the demo project and then leave them to their own devices once they get a knack for what to do. Once homeowners see what it will take, they can then decide if DIY is best for them. • Enlist help. No DIY demo should ever be done alone. The risk for accident and injury is simply too great for homeowners to go it alone. Homeowners who can’t enlist some volunteers to pitch in should leave the job to the professionals. DIY demolition can save homeowners a lot of money. But such projects are not necessarily as simple as they seem. Homeowners should take steps to see exactly what they’re getting into before they volunteer to take on demo duty.

Did You Know? When remodeling a home with the ultimate goal of making it more attractive to prospective buyers, homeowners can benefit from taking stock of current trends, including the style of home that’s most popular. According to a 2020 Homes.com survey of more than 5,000 adults across the United States, modern farmhouse is the most favored house style. The survey asked participants to choose from a selection of styles, including mid-century modern ranch, Spanish colonial/southwest, bohemian craftsman, Italianate, French chateau, and Tudor. The modern farmhouse style was the most popular choice in 42 of the 50 states, proving that home style preference is not beholden to geography. Respondents gave a host of reasons for favoring the modern farmhouse look, including that the style is “aesthetically appealing but not boring” and that it looks “simple, cozy, and not too busy.”

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Popular renovation projects during the pandemic Metro Creative Services

Spending so much time at home during the pande m-

ic led many homeowners to spruce up their homes. According to HomeAdvisor’s 2021 State of Home Spending report, spending on home improvements increased by an average of $745 per household in 2020. In the face of travel restrictions and social distancing guidelines, many homeowners pivoted in 2020 and spent money they initially intended to use for vacations on home improvements. Though many such projects required the services of a professional con-

tractor, others, including the most popular project among the 5,000 homeowners who participated in the HomeAdvisor report, were do-it-yourself endeavors. That not only gave homeowners’ homes a new look, but also gave them something to do during quarantine. The following are the five most popular home improvement projects of 2020 according to the HomeAdvisor report. 1. Interior painting: Just under 35 percent of participants reported taking on an interior painting project in 2020. Interior painting projects can be perfect for DIYers, but

homeowners also can trust this task to skilled professionals. 2. Bathroom renovations: Real estate professionals routinely report how much prospective buyers love updated bathrooms, so it’s no surprise that roughly 31 percent of homeowners who took part in the HomeAdvisor report indicated they renovated their bathrooms in 2020. 3. Flooring: Floors took on a lot of extra traffic during the pandemic, so it shouldn’t be too surprising that flooring projects were

popular in 2020. More than one-fourth of participants told HomeAdvisor their homes were updated with a new floor during the pandemic. 4. Landscaping: With nowhere else to go to escape the daily grind in 2020, many homeowners took to their yards. Twenty-four percent of those homeowners reported making their backyard retreats more appealing by repairing or upgrading the landscaping outside their homes. In fact, the average homeowner reported completing 3.4 landscaping projects in 2020.

5. Kitchen: Another project that makes sense given the circumstances, kitchen renovations were the fifth most popular home improvement project in 2020. Restaurant closures and social distancing guidelines led many people to dine in more often than they otherwise would, and just under 23 percent of homeowners reported renovating their kitchens in 2020. As the world gradually emerges from the pandemic, many homeowners who caught the renovation bug while in quarantine also will be emerging with what feels like an entirely new home.

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Craftsman home renovation ideas Metro Creative Services

Craftsman homes trace their roots to the late 19th century. An architectural style inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement that flourished in Europe and North America for roughly 40 years between 1880 and 1920, the American Craftsman home has endured into the 21st century thanks to its beauty and the unique feel its homes inspire. Many craftsman homes were built nearly a century ago if not even earlier. That means these homes may be in need of some renovations that make them more functional in modern times without sacrificing their historic beauty. • Siding: Craftsman homes are instantly recognizable from the street. Homeowners who want to maintain that authentic craftsman feel must carefully consider their choice of material when replacing the siding on their homes. The siding manufacturer Allura notes that fiber cement siding can be a great option for homeowners who want to replicate the original design of craftsman homes built with sported board-and-batten siding. Fiber cement siding gives the appearance of wood when installed and does not fade quickly or require significant maintenance. • Exterior color: Homeowners need not feel beholden to certain colors when replacing siding or repainting their homes’ exteriors. Nautical color schemes featuring navy blue exteriors with white accents can highlight features that are unique to craftsman homes,

but more understated colors and tones can work just as well. • Porches: An expansive, welcoming front porch that makes for the perfect place to relax and read when the outdoors beckons is a telltale feature of craftsman homes. Furniture options abound when homeowners are looking to upgrade the living spaces just outside the front door of their craftsman homes. Adirondack chairs can make a porch a relaxing place to enjoy a morning coffee or post-dinner digestif, while wicker furniture can help homeowners establish a relaxing vibe for summer. A porch swing or hammock can make that relaxing vibe resonate even more. • Real wood cabinets: Cabinets are a popular avenue homeowners look to when they want to give their kitchens a new look without breaking the bank. When upgrading cabinets in a craftsman home, the home renovation experts at HGTV note that craftsman-style kitchen cabinets often feature straight lines and minimal ornamentation. Cabinets are typically made from heavy woods like quartersawn oak, hickory, cherry, or maple. HGTV notes that updating the cabinets in a craftsman home often requires custom cabinetmakers, so the project may be more expensive than it would be if replacing the cabinets in a different style of home. Craftsman homes are instantly recognizable thanks to many of their unique features. There are various ways to renovate craftsman homes yet still maintain their authentic feel.

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How to pick paint for home interiors Metro Creative Services

Many components combine to define a home’s interior. Some homeowners may be partial to certain styles, such as ultra modern or farmhouse, while others may opt for a more traditional look that cannot necessarily be categorized as one style or another. Though many homeowners may spend considerable time and devote a lot of energy to making their home embody a certain style, those who aren’t willing to commit to a particular look can lean on one component to make a stylish statement all their own: paint. Color can be a part of every homeowner’s design arsenal. Bold colors can be used to create a stunning accent wall, while homes with open concepts often utilize color to define rooms. Homeowners who want to revitalize their home interiors can do so with paint, and this approach doesn’t require homeowners to commit to a whole new design style. Though paint may seem simple to novices, homeowners who have painted home interiors in the past recognize how complicated the process of picking paint can be. Paint retailers have a seemingly endless swatch of paint colors to choose from, and before long homeowners heads may be spinning as they try to narrow down their options. The following tips can help homeowners pick the perfect paint for their home interiors. • Take stock, and photographs, of your current furnishings. Many interior designers rely on a simple technique when recommending color schemes to their clients. Choose a standout color from existing furnishings, such as the dominant color

from a patterned decorative pillow or piece of furniture, and then look for the same shade to paint the walls. A photograph of the item can be handy when visiting the paint store. • Lighten colors as you go up. The home renovation and design experts at HGTV recommend picking darker color values for the floor, medium color values for the walls and light values for the ceiling. This approach mimics the look of the great outdoors, where the ground tends to be darker than the trees, and the trees are darker than the blue sky. • Utilize paint to create the vibe you want. The home renovation experts at This Old House note that colors evoke an emotional response. Cool colors like blue and green give off a relaxing vibe, which makes them ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms. Red is an intense color that can up the energy ante in any room, which can make it an option for homeowners who want to spark debate around their dinner tables. • Give personal preference its place at the table. Though interior designers may have years of experience picking paint colors for a home and researchers may have determined how certain colors can be utilized to create a desired ambiance in a given room, ultimately homeowners are the ones who will be living in the home. So it’s important that homeowners pick colors they like for their home interiors. Paint is an inexpensive way to transform a room. Homeowners can rely on a combination of color strategies and their personal preferences as they try to decide which colors they want on their interior walls.

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Design ideas to give your home a farmhouse feel Metro Creative Services

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, midcentury 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. Old-fashioned 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.

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OCTOBER 2021 • ROSWELL DAILY RECORD

How to maintain hardwood floors Metro Creative Services Hardwood floors have long been sought after by home buyers. In its 2019 “Remodeling Impact Report,” the National Association of Realtors® revealed that new wood flooring was the fourth most popular project to attract buyers. Of course, hardwood floors aren’t just for buyers. Homeowners who already have hardwood floors know just how impressive these floors can be, especially when they’re well maintained. Maintaining wood floors is not necessarily as straightforward as it may seem, and homeowners may benefit from a tutorial on how too keep the floors under their feet looking good. To polish or not to polish? Polishing floors is an inexpensive way to keep them looking good. But the home improvement experts at BobVila.com note that not all floors can be polished, and determining which ones can depends on the finish. Floors with waterproof barriers

How to create a sunroom

such as urethane will benefit from routine polishing. However, floors with penetrating finishes like tung oil will need to be waxed rather than polished. What finish is on the floor? The Hardwood Distributor’s Association recommends a simple way for homeowners to determine which type of finish is on their hardwood floors. Homeowners are advised to rub a finger across the floor. If no smudge appears, then the floor is surface sealed. If a smudge is created, then the floor has been treated with a penetrating seal. The HDA also notes that recently installed wood floors are likely surface sealed. How often should floors be polished or waxed? Wood flooring professionals recommend polishing floors that can be polished once every few months. Waxing wood floors does not need to be done as frequently, and most can benefit from a fresh coat of wax

Metro Creative Services 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 homeown-

every 12 to 18 months. What can I do on a daily basis? Some simple tricks and daily maintenance can help wood floors maintain their impressive look. • Utilize floor mats. The HDA notes that floor mats near entryways can reduce the time it takes to clean hardwood floors and reduce the wear and tear they endure. For example, tiny particles like dirt can scratch the floor and contribute to the kind of minor damage that adds up to significant scarring over time. Floor mats near entryways ensures that most of that dirt never makes it to the wood floors. • Vacuum without a beater bar. Some vacuums contain beater bars, which are designed to pick up human hair, dog hair and other things that conventional vacuums may not be able to pick up. The HDA advises vacuuming without the beater bar, as it can contribute to small scratches in the floor. Sweeping with a high-quality broom or microfiber cloth is another way to

ers decide how they want to use the sunroom before they begin decorating 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 yearround 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

pick up dirt without damaging floors. • Use manufacturer-recommended cleaning products. Local home improvement stores sell a host of hardwood floor cleaning products, but the HDA notes that many flooring manufacturers now sell their own hardwood floor cleaners designed specifically for their floors. These products are likely homeowners’ best bets. Homeowners who can’t find them can seek recommendations from a local flooring retailer. Hardwood floors are attractive for many reasons. And they look even more stunning, and last much longer, when homeowners make an effort to maintain them. 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.

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Mileage-based vehicle maintenance intervals Metro Creative Services

Maintenance is an essential component of responsible vehicle ownership. Routine maintenance can help discover problems before they escalate into potentially costly issues. Maintenance also keeps vehicles running smoothly, making them more enjoyable to drive and extending their life expectancy. Various factors can help to determine how often drivers should change their vehicles’ fluids and take them in for tuneups. Such variables include how frequently a vehicle is driven, the type of driving (city or rural) drivers do and how many miles are on the car. However, drivers can still rely on this basic car maintenance schedule, courtesy of Advance Auto Parts, to serve as a guide.

3,000 miles / 3 months Advance Auto Parts notes that monthly fluid checks typically are unnecessary with newer vehicles, though older vehicles should be inspected for leaks once a month. Among the fluids to check after every 3,000 miles or three months, whichever comes first, are: • Engine oil level • Windshield washer fluid • Coolant • Brake fluid level • Transmission fluid • Power steering fluid Drivers also can use 3,000 miles or three months as a benchmark to check tire pressure, hoses and belts. Many vehicles now display tire pressure for each tire on the dashboard, and drivers should pay attention to those numbers and put air in their tires when necessary. When inspecting hoses, touch them to make sure they’re not leaking and bulging. Hoses should be a little flexible, especially when they are warm.

5,000 miles / 6 months Oil and oil filters should be changed at this interval. In addition, this is a good time to rotate tires and inspect lights to make sure they’re still operating at peak capacity. Drivers also can check their cabin and engine air filters and replace them if need be. Changing these filters is a simple DIY project, and drivers can find an assortment of YouTube tutorials to help them complete these projects. Wiper blades also can be inspected around this time or whenever drivers suspect the blades aren’t operating at peak capacity. Replacing wiper blades is another simple DIY project that drivers can complete in a few minutes.

10,000 miles / 12 months Advance Auto Parts notes that synthetic oil is typically used in cars made since 2010. Each manufacturer is different, and drivers should check their manuals for recommendations. Synthetic oil and filters in vehicles that use synthetic oil is typically changed every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Once a year drivers should ask their mechanics to check the alignment on their vehicles and the condition of their brakes. Routine maintenance can keep vehicles running strong for years on end.

Drivers delaying vehicle maintenance Many drivers recognize the importance of vehicle maintenance, but a significant percentage of drivers are putting off taking timely care of their cars and trucks. IMR Inc. surveys 25,000 households each quarter, asking participants how they have serviced and maintained their vehicles. In the first quarter of 2020, much of which occurred prior to the declaration of a global pandemic, nearly 18 percent of respondents indicated they had delayed vehicle repairs or maintenance. IMR classified “delayed maintenance” as repairs and maintenance that vehicle owners intentionally put off despite knowing the vehicles needed them. That conscious decision to delay maintenance and repairs could prove costly in the long run, as adhering to a routine maintenance schedule is a great way to ensure cars stay on the road longer. In addition, adhering to manufacturerrecommended maintenance schedules is a great way to discover minor issues before they escalate into larger, more costly concerns.

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ment interval. It’s worth noting that

Tips.. ..before buying new tires

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Though vehicles can’t function without them, tires are something few drivers think about until something goes wrong. A roadside flat tire or a tire rotation recommendation from a mechanic during a routine oil change appointment may be the only time many drivers give much thought to their tires. That no doubt leads to some confusion about what to do when tires inevitably need to be replaced. The automotive resource Kelley Blue Book notes that the life expectancy of most tires falls between 25,000 and 50,000 miles. That’s a big gap, and car owners can check their vehicle manuals to see if their vehicle manufacturer recommends a more specific replace-

mileage is not the only barometer drivers should use to determine if they need to buy new tires. The following tips can help drivers determine if now is the time to outfit their vehicle with new tires. • Measure the tread. KBB notes that a tire assessment should always include measuring the amount of remaining tread. Drivers can do this on their own in various ways. One method involves looking at the tread wear bars, which are little bridges in the grooves between the ridges. If the bars are even with the tread pattern, then the tire has very little tread remaining and must be replaced. The penny or quarter test is a popular way to determine if tires must be replaced. Insert a penny or quarter

into the center of the tread between two ridges with Lincoln’s or Washington’s head facing you. If you can see the very top of the head or the space above the head, the tire must be replaced. If only a little bit of hair is visible, then the tire is nearing its end. The tire has sufficient remaining tread if the some of the forehead is concealed. • Check for other signs of wear and tear. Little remaining tread is not the only sign tires must be replaced. Tires with cracked sidewalls, discoloration and/or bulging need to be replaced. • Confirm a larger issue isn’t lurking. Uneven wear on tires is typically a byproduct of a larger issue. Though tires that have worn unevenly will need to be replaced, replacing them without correcting the larger issue will only lead to more uneven wear on the new tires. That’s a costly mistake. KBB notes that poor wheel alignment or suspension issues are typically to blame for uneven wear. This issue can be fixed and should be addressed prior to purchasing a new set of tires.

Tires sometimes exhibit telltale signs that they need to be replaced. Before buying replacement tires, drivers can inspect their existing ones and ask their mechanic to confirm that a larger issue isn’t affecting their performance.

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How drivers can handle suddenly unsafe driving conditions

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The chance to take in idyllic landscapes and sun-soaked views is a big part of what makes road trips so appealing. When traveling during certain times of year, such as spring and fall, seasonal landscapes dotted with vivid colors can be especially stunning. Prior to embarking on a road trip, travelers can’t be blamed for getting caught up in the sights they’re on the cusp of seeing. But it’s equally important that drivers take steps to prepare

for unsafe driving conditions. Even if the forecast is nothing but sunny skies, driving conditions can suddenly take a turn for the worse. The following are a handful of unsafe conditions drivers may encounter on the road, and what they can to do to make it through such situations safe and sound. • Bad weather: Bad weather can include anything from snowfall to driving rain to thick fog. Though it’s wise for drivers to consult the weather forecast prior to hitting the road,

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no forecast is 100 percent accurate, which underscores the importance of knowing what to do when conditions suddenly take a turn for the worse. If inclement weather appears unexpectedly, slow down and be sure to leave extra room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. The automotive analytics firm J.D. Power notes that many experts recommend drivers double the cushion between their vehicles and the ones in front of them when driving in rain, snow, sleet, and other adverse weather conditions. Doing so can help to offset the slower brake time that occurs when driving in bad weather. • Debris: Road debris can include anything from materials that get blown away from roadside work sites to falling rock to tire treads to items that fall off of other vehicles. The suddenness of and the potentially serious consequences of being hit by or hitting debris is why a proactive approach is ideal. Avoid tailgating so you have ample room to maneuver should anything fall into the road. It’s also important to leave room on the side of your vehicle so you can swerve out of the way. On especially long road trips, share driving duties so whoever is behind the wheel is fresh and alert. Alertness improves reaction time, making it much more likely drivers can avoid debris. The open road has its hazards. But drivers who plan ahead and know

what to do when encountering adverse conditions can ensure road trips are memorable for all the right reasons.

• Aggressive drivers: Aggressive driving or road rage is a significant issue, more so than some drivers may recognize. A 2016 survey from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that nearly 80 percent of drivers expressed significant anger, aggression or road rage behind the wheel at least once in the previous 12 months. The insurance experts at Geico® recommend that motorists who encounter aggressive drivers do their best to stay away from them. Consider safely changing lanes, gradually slowing down or even exiting the highway. Geico® advises against stopping, as that can lead to potentially dangerous confrontations.

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Tips to safely drive in large cities Metro Creative Services

Visitors to large cities often marvel at how drivers traverse urban roadways. Non-city dwellers may white knuckle their way through crowded city streets, all the while wondering how anyone could handle such a stressful experience on a daily basis. Though suburban or rural residents may never master the art of city driving, they can embrace various strategies to make city driving safer and less stressful. • Take a small vehicle if possible. Rural and suburban roadways may be built for SUVs and other large vehicles, but that’s not often the case in cities. A feeling of claustrophobia contributes to the discomfort many drivers feel when driving through cities. Some may be worried that their SUVs or trucks will hit parked cars, while others may prefer to be closer to the street so they can easily see pedestrians. Drivers who can choose between an SUV or truck and a smaller vehicle like a sedan may find that they feel more comfortable driving the smaller vehicle inside city limits. • Pick and choose your driving times. The National Safety Council says morning rush hour in most cit-

ies is typically between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m., while afternoon rush hour begins around 4 p.m. and lasts until 7 p.m. Drivers nervous about city driving may benefit by avoiding cities during rush hours. During rush hour, city streets may be overcrowded with commuter buses, taxis and ridesharing services, and professionals anxious to get to work or get home after a long day at the office. That can make city driving especially stressful. If possible, avoid these times. • Stay in your lane. The automotive experts at Edmunds.com note that switching lanes will only trim a negligible amount of time off your trip. Those extra few seconds or even minutes are not worth risking an accident. Slow drivers tend to stick to the right lane in cities, though drivers who stay in the right lane should recognize that experienced city drivers who want to make right turns may be aggressive with other right lane drivers who they feel are moving too slowly. Do your best to ignore aggressive drivers and resist the temptation to drive significantly below the speed limit, even when you’re in the right lane. • Don’t take turns and crosswalks for granted. Suburban and rural drivers may not give a second

thought when approaching crosswalks. But city crosswalks are often filled with pedestrians. That requires a little extra patience and attention when turning or driving through a yellow light within a city. • Be mindful of cyclists. Many large cities have established bike lanes to encourage more people to bike to work. Cyclists move more quickly than pedestrians traveling on foot, so always make sure to check sideview mirrors before turning to ensure speedy cyclists are not coming up behind you. In addition, never swerve into bike lanes, as cyclists have every right to be on the road. A few simple strategies can help drivers calm their nerves about driving within city limits. Sparklight® Ranked Among 2021’s Top 3 Fastest Internet Service Providers A trademark of Ziff Davis, LLC. Used under license. Reprinted with permission. ®2021 Ziff Davis, LLC. All rights reserved.

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4 apps that can make driving safer

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Technology has changed the world in ways too numerous to count. Many of those changes have made the world a safer place, but a growing dependence on smartphones, particularly when behind the wheel, continues to put the safety of drivers, their passengers, fellow motorists, and pedestrians in jeopardy. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates that distracted driving was responsible for the deaths of more than 3,100 people in the United States in 2019. The threat of distracted driving is just as significant beyond U.S. borders as well. That includes Canada, where estimates from Transport Canada’s National Collision Database indicate 21 percent of the country’s fatal collisions involved distracted drivers. Though smartphones are not the

lone distraction drivers face, they do pose a significant threat. But smartphones also can help drivers be safer behind the wheel. The following are four apps that drivers can install on their smartphones that were designed to make modern driving safer. 1. SafeDrive: The SafeDrive app can block all the textual apps in a phone, removing a major threat to drivers’ ability to concentrate behind the wheel. Drivers who utilize SafeDrive can still make phone calls, but they won’t be able to receive or send messages. 2. LifeSaver: The LifeSaver app runs silently in the background and then wakes up and locks the phone when a driver begins driving. Parents of young drivers should know that the app’s “Family View” feature can enable them to track their children’s driving

and even see when kids are behind the wheel so parents won’t contact them. The app also can alert loved ones when drivers arrive at their destination. 3. TextDrive: This app sends auto response messages to people who try to call or text drivers while they’re behind the wheel. Drivers can reply to messages using voice commands as well. 4. DriveWell: Drivers who want some insight into their driving habits should consider the DriveWell app. The app is designed to provide drivers with feedback about their driving habits. Drivers can access trip summaries, details on their maneuvers and even track their speeds. Drivers interested in utilizing technology to become safer drivers can try various apps designed to reduce driver distractions.

Did you know?

Modern cars are technological marvels, and it turns out drivers may value tech over all else, including their choice of automaker. A 2017 study from Autotrader asked 1,000 participants an assortment of questions about technology and car buying. Roughly 60 percent of millennial car shoppers and more than 40 percent of baby boomers indicated they would switch vehicle brands just to get the technology features they want. Drivers are even willing to pay extra for their preferred tech. The Autotrader study found that the average shopper would pay an extra $2,276 to get the right tech features.

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3 ways to get more out of your devices on long car trips trips. Devices vary in terms of their capabilities, and that can affect just how useful they are on the road. But the following are three ways for travelers to get more out of their devices while on the road.

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Once an uncomfortable means to a worthy end, long car trips have changed quite a bit since many of today’s adults age 30 and over were children. Parents are no doubt familiar with the familiar cry of, “Are we there yet?” emanating from the backseat. But such queries are now less frequent than they once were. And that’s thanks in large part to devices and the access to data that they provide. Devices can help passengers stay occupied on long

1. Download, download, download. Downloading prior to a trip allows travelers to access content offline. That means service interruptions and Wifi dead zones won’t interrupt podcasts, television shows or movies. Downloading ahead of time also saves people without unlimited data plans from having to pay data overage charges. 2. Turn your phone into a WiFi hotspot. Smartphones have direct access to high-speed mobile network connections that tablets and laptops won’t be able to access without a little handiwork. That handiwork involves converting a phone into a hotspot, which can be done easily through the settings function in most smartphones. Once the phone is established as

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3. Accessorize your vehicle. Staring down at a smartphone or tablet for hours on end is no one’s idea of comfort. Thankfully, comfort need not be sacrificed for entertainment. A headrest mount can be attached to the headrest of a front seat and accommodate a variety of devices, including smartphones and tablets. Devices are simply slipped into the mount so passengers won’t have to hold them in their hands as they watch their favorite television shows and movies. Headrest mounts may be convenient, but kids might not be able to reach touchscreens while buckled in. In such instances, parents can replace their existing headrests with headrests with built-in monitors that come with remote controls that make it easy to adjust volume and other settings without undoing a seat belt. Access to devices can make long road trips feel less boring and more entertaining.

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Tips for first-time RV drivers

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Whether it’s the welcoming weather or the chance to follow a favorite football team or, of course, the aweinspiring foliage, fall compels many people to hit the open road. A car or truck might suffice for a day trip or weekend getaway, but those who want to travel more extensively often do so in an RV. Recreational vehicles, or RVs, provide a taste of home away from home for millions of people every year. RVs allow people to visit even the most remote locations without having to worry about finding food or lodging. As welcoming as the interior of an RV can be, it’s also easy for first-time RV drivers to feel a little intimidated. RVs are the largest vehicles many people will ever operate, and even long-time drivers will likely need some time to adjust. That adjustment period can go smoothly if drivers take steps to grow more comfortable behind the wheel before embarking on their trips. • Recognize that practice makes perfect. A cross country RV trip is a dream vacation for many people, but drivers must learn to crawl before

they can walk. RVs are much bigger and heavier than cars and trucks, and practice runs can help drivers grow acclimated to that size. Don’t begin a practice run without first noting the class and height of the vehicle. The online camper resource Camper Report notes that Class C RVs average 10 feet in height, while Class A RVs are typically between 13 and 14 feet tall. Measure the height of your RV prior to your first practice run so you can be sure you can make it beneath all overpasses on your route. • Take a companion along. Drivers behind the wheel of a car or truck may not give a second thought to driving in reverse or navigating their way around parking lots. But such situations require some forethought, and even a little help, when driving an RV for the first time. A traveling companion can direct drivers into and out of parking spots until they grow more acclimated to operating an RV. • Utilize leveling blocks. RV leveling blocks help RVs stay level when parked on sloped surfaces. The RV experts at TheRVGeeks. com note that RVs need to be level in order for equipment to work

properly. That’s problematic if you park at a campsite with uneven ground. Even if equipment is functional when parked on marginally sloped surfaces, navigating your way through an RV parked on such ground is inconvenient if not annoying. Leveling blocks also can keep jacks from sinking into soft ground, making them an inexpensive yet useful accessory for any RV trip. • Practice dumping your tanks. Drivers whose RVs have toilets will eventually need to dump their waste. Drivers should practice this in advance of their first trip so they are practiced when the time comes to do it on the road. Tutorials on YouTube can teach drivers how to dump their tanks. Drivers also can invest in a highly rated, thick sewer hose to avoid being sprayed with waste while out on the road. RV travel is a great way to experience the open road. First-time RV drivers can try various strategies to get used to what it’s like to be behind the wheel of these unique vehicles.

Fuel costs are worth considering when planning to travel in an RV

For RV enthusiasts, few if any means of traveling can compare with hitting the open road in an RV. Travel enthusiasts who have never before traveled in an RV might be intrigued by that enthusiasm and the freedom that comes with hitting the open road without having to worry about hotel costs and checkout times. Though those are great reasons to consider traveling in an RV, vacationers should build fuel costs into their travel budgets. That’s because RVs typically do not get great gas mileage. According to the online RV resource RVshare. com, the cost of gas for an RV can be hard to predict, as fuel prices can fluctuate wildly depending on the time of year and where people are when they need to gas up their RVs. However, predicting the gas mileage an RV gets is a little simpler, and RVshare notes that typically depends on which type of RV travelers are using. For example, class A RVs, which typically feature a flat vertical front and large windows, may only get about six to eight miles per gallon. Class C RVs are typically built on a truck chassis and get better gas mileage than Class A RVs, averaging somewhere between 10 and 13 miles per gallon. It’s important to note that these figures are just estimates. Difficult terrain, such as steep mountains, can reduce gas mileage even further. Despite the sticker shock they may experience at the pump, travelers interested in RVs should not let that deter them from climbing into an RV and hitting the open road. The cost of fueling up may not exceed the cost of lodging, which RV travelers won’t need. And RV drivers can save even more money by cooking their own meals in the kitchens or kitchenettes that are standard in most RVs.

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How to road trip in an electric car Metro Creative Services

Seasoned travelers know that few things match the excitement of taking to the open road. Whether you’re heading off for parts unknown or following a carefully planned itinerary, a road trip promises to be a unique experience. Drivers can up the uniqueness ante even further by taking an electric car on their next road trip. Many people who take driving vacations may fly into a new city or country and then rent a car as they prepare to hit the open road. Electric vehicles, or EVs, have become increasingly available in rental fleets in recent years. Travelers interested in trying something new may be intrigued by the chance to get behind the wheel of an EV on their next road trips. This can be a great chance for drivers who are interested in one day purchasing their own EVs to get their feet wet. Some drivers may not know what to expect when taking a long trip in an EV. Though it’s understandable to have some hesitation, the following are some ways to navigate your first extended trip in an EV. • Determine the charging time of your vehicle. The automotive experts at J.D. Power note that EVs come with different types of charging systems. Level 1 are the most readily available EVs, and these come with a standard 120-volt three prong plug that’s common in modern homes in the United States. That’s convenient, but charging using a Level 1 outlet may take a significant amount of time and only provide a few miles per hour of charging. If you’re renting an EV, confirm which type of car you’re getting and emphasize to the rental agency that you prefer a car that can be charged easily and effectively. One that can be charged overnight and provide hundreds of

miles of driving time after a full charge is ideal. • Look for EV-friendly lodging. Many hotels now feature charging stations exclusively for guests with EVs. Some hotels include the cost of utilizing such stations in their parking fees, while others may charge an additional amount. Either way, the convenience of finding a hotel with its own charging station outweighs any extra costs, as cars can be charged overnight while guests are asleep, leaving more time to travel in a vehicle that’s fully charged each morning. • Find some RV parks along your route. RVs have required charging stations for years, so RV parks typically have these stations available for a nominal fee of around $50. RVs typically are Level 2, so EV drivers that require Level 2 charging systems should be able to charge their vehicles at RV parks. In addition, many RV parks now also provide charging stations for Level 1 vehicles, though drivers should confirm which parks have such offerings prior to embarking on their trips. • Drive in moderate weather. The software experts at Geotab note that cold weather affects EV range. Though battery thermal management systems have been designed to keep batteries within an optimal temperature range to minimize loss in battery performance, battery range is adversely affected when driving in extreme cold. Geotab notes that 70 F is the trip efficiency sweet spot. Drivers can embrace various strategies to keep electric vehicles running strong on long road trips.

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