Fall Home Improvement Stillwater 10-20-21

is special FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE is brought to you by Arens Corp., publishers of the Stillwater Valley Advertiser. We encourage our readers to support all of these participating local businesses.

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Page 2-B - STILLWATER VALLEY ADVERTISER - OCTOBER 20, 2021

have a plan...

Renovations rarely go exactly to plan, but that doesn’t mean you should wing it.

Last-minute changes are both stressful and expensive, so get the non-negotiable details hammered out first. At minimum, this means knowing what results you want and how much money—and time—it will take to achieve them.

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Design Ideas to Give Your Home a Farmhouse Feel

Farmhouse style homes are having a moment. A recent survey 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. 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 it’s recommended 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. Renovation experts 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: Butcher block countertops are recommended 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.

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simple Ways to save on Heating costs this Winter

Comfort takes center stage each winter. As people look to stay warm, many may be quick to turn up the thermostat so their entire home is toasty warm. But much like cranking air conditioners during the dog days of summer, turning up the thermostat each time the winter winds begin blowing can prove costly for homeowners.

Last year, homeowners spent an average of $911 on winter home heating costs. This winter could prove to be just as costly, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to force much of the world to practice social distancing. That means many professionals are still working from home fulltime, while even those who aren't are no doubt spending more of their free time at home. All those hours spent at home figure to increase reliance on heaters this winter, which means heating bills are likely to go up as the temperatures go down.

Finding ways to save on heat-

ing costs will no doubt prove a priority for many homeowners this winter, and the following are some ways to do just that.

• Add insulAtion. Extra insulation throughout the house can dramatically reduce home heating (and cooling) costs.

Adding insulation in attics, crawl spaces and basement rim joists can help homeowners save as much as 15 percent on heating costs.

• lower the temperAture on your wAter heAter.

Another way to trim your energy bill this winter is to lower the temperature on your water heater. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that, for every 10 F reduction in temperature on their water heaters, homeowners can save between 3 and 5 percent on their water heating costs.

• Close the flue on your fireplACe. Fireplaces can keep a home's inhabitants warm in winter, but only when they're in use. When they're not being used,

Tackle quick, Time-sensiTive projecTs firsT...

Some home improvements are more urgent than others. If a project will save you money immediately or prevent devastating damage in the future, bump it to the top of the priority list. at goes double for quick, easy fixes, like sealing drafts and replacing filters.

fireplaces can allow heat to escape a home. When the fireplace is not being used, close the flue to prevent heat from escaping the house. Keeping all windows and doors closed throughout the day is another way to prevent unnecessary heat loss.

• hAve your hvAC system serviCed before winter begins. Inefficient HVAC systems cost homeowners considerable amounts of money each year. Annual maintenance performed by a certified HVAC professional can ensure filters are clean and operating at peak efficiency, saving homeowners the costly trouble of having to turn up the thermostat to overcome dirty systems.

Home heating costs figure to increase this winter as people spend more time at home. Various simple strategies can help homeowners stay warm without overpaying to heat their homes this winter.

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If You’re More of a Hands-On Learner, Try Volunteering...

You’ll learn new skills and help people at the same time. Many hardware stores offer free clinics on basic home repair and improvement skills, too, so be sure to check the offerings in your area.

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Home Repairs That Can Sink Budgets Fast

A home is the most substantial investment many people will ever make. Once down payments have been made and closing costs have been paid, homeowners may still be staring down sizable expenses as they begin to tackle any repairs that need to be made.

Home maintenance and renovations involve a certain measure of trepidation. Even after vetting contractors and establishing budgets, homeowners may worry that repairs will unearth problems that snowball into expensive fixes. Planning ahead for such projects and learning to recognize issues that tend to be costly can help homeowners weather any storms that may arise.

• Foundation issues: A strong foundation

is key to any home. If there is a problem with the foundation, it can be unsafe to live in the house. Foundation fixes can range from $4,000 to upward of $100,000, depending on the scale of the job. Clogged gutters and water pooling around the foundation can contribute to damage, so water issues must be remedied first.

• RooF damage: A roof is a key barrier between the indoors and outdoors. Roofs must remain in tip-top shape. A roof repair or replacement can cost between $3,000 and $12,000. But homeowners also must budget for the cost of removing the old roofing materials and fixing any damage to the interior of the home. Inspecting the roof and making repairs as you go is key to avoiding a big headache.

• siding Replacement: Another costly project can be replacing the siding. Siding may need to be replaced if there is water/wind damage or penetration from insects. Spot repairs may be relatively inexpensive. The average siding installation project can cost between $5,500 and $15,000, depending on the materials homeowners choose.

• HVac update: Keeping a home at a comfortable temperature is also a matter of safety.

If a system gives out, homeowners may be scrambling for a solution. Yearly inspections and upkeep, which includes changing system filters regularly, can help identify potential problems. Neglect is one of the main contributors to the failure of heating and cooling equipment. Based on national averages, a whole-house HVAC system can cost between $4,000 and $12,000.

These are some of the more costly repairs homeowners can expect. Keeping on top of the home will help mitigate damage and could extend the life of major home components.

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Laundry Room Renovation Ideas To former apartment dwellers or those who have never enjoyed the benefit of a dedicated laundry area, even the smallest washer and dryer space can seem like a luxury.

The benefits of dedicated laundry rooms abound. However, disorganized laundry rooms can nullify such benefits. Depending on the needs and preferences of each homeowner, laundry room designs can be customized for convenience.

Employ vErtical spacE Floor space may be at a premium in a laundry room, especially for those who want to devote as much space as possible to bulk-size washer and dryer units. Therefore, utilizing wall space is key.

Use shelving, wire racks, hooks, and other organizational tools to store items on the wall. Shelves can be tucked into just about any space, and there are different options that can fit into corners or shallow areas. These are a great option for keeping detergent or other laundry essentials nearby. clEan dEsigns rEducE cluttEr Simple, clean designs can be an asset in a laundry room. If budget and space permits, cabinetry built into the design will help keep items out of sight in the laundry room. Cabinets hung directly above the appliances can store detergent, bleach and fabric softener. Use cabinets elsewhere in the room as catch-alls for cleaning supplies used in various other rooms around the house. incorporatE a sink in thE dEsign Some older laundry room set-ups have a slop

How to Reduce Risk of Allergic Reactions in the Kitchen

sink to drain discharged water from the washing machine. However, newer homes may have plumbing installed directly through the floor or walls. It is still a worthwhile idea to have a sink in the laundry room for rinsing out stains, handwashing items, and having a go-to sink for messier cleanup. utilizE a tEnsion rod A rod installed between two cabinets or across a narrow width of space in the laundry room is a handy spot to hang shirts or pants to prevent wrinkling. Repurposing a ladder and suspending it from the ceiling also creates a spot to hang clothes. considEr laundry room flooring It's important to select flooring materials that will not be damaged by contact with moisture or spills. Vinyl, tile, and some composite products often make good laundry room floor materials. Resilient flooring that mimics the look of hardwood may add a classy touch, and give the appearance of wood without having to worry about damage. To alleviate fatigue while spending long moments in the laundry room, invest in a memory foam mat that can be placed underfoot. kEEp lighting in mind Lighting can be important in the laundry room.

Rely on task lighting, under-cabinet strip lighting and overhead lights as needed for efficiency.

Laundry room design can maximize the space available and make it more convenient to launder and sort clothes.

Kitchen safety requires a broad range of efforts to prevent injuries and illnesses. Kitchen safety should involve efforts to keep kids away from sharp objects and hot surfaces. Attempts to prevent foodborne illnesses, which can prove dangerous and potentially deadly, also must be part of maintaining a safe kitchen. The relatively recent rise in food allergies has added a new variable to the mix as well.

The increase in food allergies underscores the importance of prevention. Individuals can take various steps to keep their kitchens clean and reduce the risk of allergic reactions in their homes.

• avoid cRoss-contaMination. Crosscontamination occurs when bacteria or other microorganisms are unintentionally transferred from one object to another. The most common example of cross-contamination occurs when bacteria is transferred between raw and cooked food. Cross-contamination poses a threat when cooking for people with food allergies and people without such allergies. In such instances, cooks must make sure foods never touch and that cooking surfaces, including cutting boards and pots and pans, are thoroughly cleaned before preparing and cooking for people with food allergies. Prepare meals for people with food allergies first as an extra precaution.

• designate ceRtain utensils and disHes FoR people witH Food alleRgies.

Another way to reduce the risk for allergic reactions in the kitchen is to designate certain utensils and dishes exclusively for people with food

GETTING STARTED...

If you’re not sure where to start with home improvements, it can be helpful to prioritize projects that increase your home’s value. Updated kitchens and bathrooms are pretty much always a safe bet, as are any renovations that increase square footage, like finished basements and decks. But buyer preferences vary from market to market, so be sure to focus on what’s popular and valuable where you live – not broad national trends.

Must-Have Features in Your Bathroom Remodel Veteran homeowners recognize the value of remodeling their kitchens and bathrooms.

Kitchens and baths tend to appear dated more quickly than other spaces, such as living rooms and bedrooms, which can always be revamped with some fresh paint and new furnishings.

The home improvement pricing resource Home Guide indicates an average bathroom remodel costs anywhere from $5,500 to $15,000, depending on the size and scope of the renovation. However, a bath redo can increase a home's resale value and can return as much as 68 percent of homeowners' investments. As homeowners plan their bathroom renovations, it's a good time to consider improvements that will improve function and add design appeal for years to come.

• Floating vanitY: Add an airy feeling to the room by creating space between the vanity and the floor. A floating vanity can be a counter with a vessel sink or even have cabinets, as long as the vanity doesn't extend to the floor.

• FReestanding tRaditional sink oR tuB: There's something elegant about a freestanding tub or pedestal sink.

Such features can lend a classic vibe to a space. However, freestanding fixtures also come in modern or eclectic forms, so there are options for any design style.

• FRaMeless sHoweRs: Switch to a walk-in shower option, which improves aesthetics

allergies. This can reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions and serve as a safety net if dishes aren't thoroughly cleaned.

• don't invite too ManY cooks into tHe kitcHen. Having too many people in the kitchen at one time can increase the chances that people with food allergies will eat food or touch a contaminated surface that could make them sick.

This is especially so for children with food allergies, as kids may not be aware of all the foods they should avoid. Guests with allergens on their hands also may unintentionally touch surfaces, potentially triggering allergic reactions in others.

• wasH Hands. Cooks should wash their hands with soap and water prior to touching foods. This reduces the risk of contamination caused by allergies lingering on cooks' hands.

Cooks should wash their hands prior to touching any food they haven't already touched. This may require cooks to wash their hands multiple times when preparing a single meal, but it's an effective way to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.

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and makes it easier to "age in place" in a home. Pair that frameless shower with clear glass shower doors so sightline in the space remains unencumbered.

• natuRal textuRes: Create a calm and serene sanctuary in the bathroom with light, natural hues and materials. Natureinspired colors on tiles, walls and vanities can add to the spa vibe.

• dual sinks & vanities: With a double vanity, two people can share the space and easily use the bathroom without getting in each other's way. One vanity with two sinks works, but homeowners can create even more personal space by dividing vanities and mirrors.

• sMall textuRed tile on sHoweR FlooRs: Small textures are appealing and add

safety. The added texture and grouting will keep feet from slipping on wet floors. Also, opt for mold-resistant grout to make cleanup even easier.

• special sHoweR Heads: Invest in shower heads that can run the gamut from creating steam showers to rainfall effects. Some showers will have multiple shower jets to offer an invigorating experience.

• iMpRove dRainage: Increase the diameter of the drain pipe in the bathroom from the standard to a two-inch drain pipe. This will reduce the risk of clogs and overflow leaks.

• install a window: Natural light and air flow can reduce the risk for mold and mildew growth, and windows add some aesthetic appeal to a space. Just be sure to choose frosted privacy glass.

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Page 6-B - STILLWATER VALLEY ADVERTISER - OCTOBER 20, 2021

if you have no idea what you’re getting into...

Don’t commit until you’ve spent, at minimum, a solid couple of hours watching YouTube tutorials and pricing out materials. Remember... just because you can doesn’t mean you should. Everyone should know a few basic repair skills, and thanks to the Internet, learning them has never been easier. If you can, start with a specific question: Is my garbage disposal broken or just clogged? Do I really need to clean my dishwasher filter?

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Factors to Consider When Choosing Carpeting

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When the time comes to choose flooring for their homes, homeowners may be overwhelmed by the vast array of options at their disposal. The choice between carpet and hardwood flooring, laminate or tile is a matter of personal preference. People have long extolled the virtues of hardwood flooring, but carpeting can be just as stylish and provides a host of other benefits as well.

Carpeting insulates rooms in the summer and winter, adding that extra level of protection against the elements. Carpeting also absorbs sound in a home. Many appreciate the warmth and cozy feeling of carpet, especially when stepping out of bed.

Carpeting also can increase the level of safety at home. Carpeting makes areas of play safer and may also reduce the severity of an injury in the event of a fall.

Today, there are many different types of carpeting available. Selecting the right carpeting for a room comes down to identifying the level of traffic in a particular room, the attributes homeowners would like the carpet to have, and any other needs that fit with their lifestyles. The following guidelines can make carpet shopping a bit easier: ••• Type of carpeTing There are many different types of carpeting, some of which are best suited to certain situations.

For example, plush and saxony carpets are better in low-traffic areas. These carpets may show footprints and also vacuum tracks and dirt, but they're

higher on the comfort spectrum than other types of carpet. Berber, which is more flat and dense, helps mask stains and tracks. It is durable in high-traffic areas. Textured carpets like frieze are cut from fibers of different heights, so they mask stains and are also softer on the feet than berber.

••• padding Padding can impact the way carpeting feels and how long it lasts. It isn't always necessary to purchase the most expensive or thickest padding. However, it is wise to pick a pad that matches the type of carpeting you're selecting and one that aligns with how you plan to use the room. You may be able to go with a thinner pad in low-traffic rooms and beneath dense carpeting like berber. In hightraffic rooms, choose a thicker, more durable padding. Padding prevents carpet backing and fibers from coming apart over time. It pays to invest in a padding that will last as well.

••• insTallaTion Select a reliable carpet retailer and installer for your business. Competent installers will lay the carpeting in the correct manner so that it will look beautiful and maintain its durability for the life of the product. Shop around to find the right installer or even do the work yourself if you feel capable.

Take time when shopping for carpeting, which is a substantial investment that can last for many years if the right material is chosen and installed correctly.

Page 7-B - STILLWATER VALLEY ADVERTISER - OCTOBER 20, 2021

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5 Outdoor Projects That Add Value

Exterior renovations can enhance the appearance of a property and make it more enjoyable for homeowners. Certain renovations have the potential to add value to a home, while others may do the opposite. Learning which one have the largest return on investment can help homeowners select features that will have the most positive impact.

Curb appeal goes a long way toward attracting potential buyers. According to the National Association of Realtors, first impressions of a property have a strong influence on buyers.

Landscaping and external features can do much to influence such impressions. .

• Lawn care program: Investing in a lawn care program that consists of fertilizer and weed control application and can be transferred over to a subsequent home owner is an attractive feature.

NAR says such a care program can recover $1,000 in value of the $330 average cost, or a 303 percent ROI. • Low-maintenance lifestyle: When choosing materials for projects, those that offer low-maintenance benefits can be preferential. These include low-maintenance patio materials, composite decking, vinyl fencing, and inorganic mulched beds.

• Fire pit: A fire pit can be used for much of the

year. In the spring and summer, the firepit is a great place to congregate to roast marshmallows or sip wine and gaze into the fire. In the fall, the fire pit can make for a cozy retreat. A fire pit that has a gas burner is low-maintenance, and the National Association of Landscape Professionals says that most can recoup about $4,000 of their $6,000 average price tag.

• Softscaping: Hardscaping refers to structures like outdoor kitchens or decks. Softscaping involves the living elements of the landscape. Hiring a landscape designer to install trees, shrubs, natural edging, and rock elements can do wonders toward improving the look and value of a home.

• Pool or water feature: In certain markets, particularly hot climates, a pool or another water feature is a must-have. However, in other areas where outdoor time is limited, a pool or water feature can actually lower the value of a home.

Speaking with a real estate professional can give homeowners an idea of how a pool will fare in a given neighborhood.

Outdoor improvements can improve the marketability of a home, as well as enhance its appearance and function.

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Find your diy threshold...

Even if you’re an experienced DIY-er with a well-stocked workshop, not all home improvement projects are suitable for amateurs. Before starting a project, gauge your interest level: How much work are you really willing to put in? Is that effort worth the money you’ll save? Be brutally honest.

Which home improvements can you DIY and which should you leave to a pro?

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How to Ensure A Successful Basement Remodel Americans continue to fuel remodeling spending across the country, driven by upward growth in real estate prices and the rising cost to trade up to a larger home. Basement renovations are a hot trend, as buyers look to maximize available living space rather than move, and as young buyers look to offset the cost of homeownership with potential income suites.

While finishing a basement can be a great alternative to moving – especially if you love your neighborhood – there are some challenges homeowners must be aware of when tackling belowgrade living spaces. Choosing the right products is vital to the comfort, safety and function of your new living area. Look for products that help to maximize energy efficiency and protect against moisture, fire, and noise.

Here are the top points to consider to ensure a successful basement renovation: WAtERpRoof it. Check the interior foundation and floors to make sure there are no existing moisture issues, water damage, or mold problems. Address any primary moisture issues before finishing the space. Examine grading to ensure water runs away from your foundation. inSulAtion iS kEy. Insulation plays a critical role in making your basement feel comfortable, while keeping it safe and dry. For the best results, install a rigid board insulation against the concrete foundation before you stud the wall. The board is mechanically fastened or adhered to the concrete foundation wall, which prevents thermal bridging through the studs, providing better thermal perform-

ance. Finish with a moisture-resistant and dimensionally stable insulation between the studs to protect against common basement issues such as mold, mildew, and rot.

CHooSE A funCtionAl dESign. Draw out plans, carefully taking into consideration any low ceilings or small windows. Try to incorporate structural features, such as attractive wood beams, into your design. Keep the space as open as possible. Select lighting that provides a bright, airy feel. don't foRgEt to SoundpRoof it. Soundproofing is the ultimate solution to maximize your basement's quiet and privacy. Whether your newfound space will function as a home theatre, music room, home office, or playroom, it will benefit from quality acoustic insulation. Not only is it highly effective, but it's also easy to install.

ConSidER fiRE SAfEty. Since many basements are now being renovated as income suites, fire protection is also a vital consideration. Whenever possible, select building materials with a high fire-resistance rating and look for products that will not off-gas or contribute to toxic smoke in the event of a fire. Include additional exits in your renovation plan and educate yourself on your local fire code.

Before you start your renovation, be sure to check with your municipality to secure the right permits and to ensure that you're complying with local bylaws and building codes. Finishing a basement can be a smart renovation, if done properly, adding to a home's value, increasing its function and providing greater enjoyment or income potential.

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Page 9-B - STILLWATER VALLEY ADVERTISER - OCTOBER 20, 2021

Fall lawn care tips Spring and summer may be the seasons most often associated with landscaping and lawn care, but tending to lawns and gardens is a year-round job. If lawn and garden responsibilities dip considerably in winter, then fall is the last significant chance before the new year that homeowners will have to address the landscaping around their homes.

Fall lawn care differs from spring and summer lawn care, even if the warm temperatures of summer linger into autumn.

Homeowners who want their lawns to thrive year-round can take advantage of the welcoming weather of fall to address any existing or potential issues.

• Keep mowing, but adjust how you mow. It's important that homeowners continue to mow their lawns so long as grass is growing. But as fall transitions into winter, lower the blades so the grass is cut shorter while remaining mindful that no blade of grass should ever be trimmed by more than one-third. Lowering the blades will allow more sunlight to reach the grass in the months ahead.

• Remove leaves as they fall. Much like apple-picking and foliage, raking leaves is synonymous with fall. Some homeowners may wait to pick up a rake until all of the trees on their properties are bare. However, allowing fallen leaves to sit on the ground for extended periods of time can have an adverse effect on grass. Leaves left to sit on the lawn may ultimately suffocate the grass by forming an impenetrable wall that deprives the lawn of sunlight and oxygen. The result is dead grass and possibly even fungal disease. Leaves may not need to be raked every day, but homeowners should periodically rake and remove leaves from their grass, even if there are plenty left to fall still hanging on the trees.

• RepaiR bald spots. Summer exacts a toll on lawns in various ways, and even homeowners with green thumbs may end up with a lawn filled with bald spots come September. Autumn is a great time to repair these bald spots. Lawn repair mixes contain mulch, seed, and fertilizer to repair bald spots, which can begin to recover in as little as seven days.

Before applying such products, remove dead grass and loosen the top few inches of soil. Follow any additional manufacturer instructions as well.

• aeRate the tuRf. Aerating reduces soil compacting, facilitating the delivery of fertilizer and water to a lawn's roots. While many homeowners, and particularly those who take pride in tending to their own lawns, can successfully aerate their own turf, it's best to first have soil tested so you know which amendments to add after the ground has been aerated. Gardening centers and home improvement stores sell soil testing kits that measure the pH of soil, but homeowners who want to test for nutrients or heavy metals in their soil may need to send their samples to a lab for further testing.

Fall lawn care provides a great reason to spend some time in the yard before the arrival of winter.

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Page 10-B - STILLWATER VALLEY ADVERTISER - OCTOBER 20, 2021

Save money by Scrimping – and Splurging – reSponSibly...

Major renovations are expensive, but going full Scrooge on every single line item only creates more work later. Instead, identify where you can and can’t afford to be a little stingy. A good rule of thumb: Shell out for anything catastrophically expensive and/or difficult to replace, like hot water heaters and electrical work. For easily replaceable items – shower heads, light fixtures, drawer pulls – cheap is fine. You should also consider how much use and enjoyment you’ll get from an item. If you’re an avid cook, scrimp on floor tiles so you can splurge on the stove of your dreams.

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Thanks in part to the affordability of paint and its ease of application, painting is something that even novice DIYers can typically handle. It’s estimated that residential interior paint only lasts around three years before it needs to be updated. Exterior paint can fade, chip, and peel due to various environmental factors.

As a result, many homes can likely use a fresh coat of paint in at least one room.

As DIY-friendly as painting can be, when attempting to paint the interior or exterior of their homes, homeowners may learn that some painting projects are best left to the professionals.

Painting requires skill, patience, and a knowledge of how various paints – including finishes for particular applications – will

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hold up. Novice painters may do more harm than good by dripping paint on expensive carpeting or floors or failing to recognize the nuances that indicate a spot-on painting job.

Professional painters have spent hours upon hours learning the ropes of what works – and what does not. Painters often understand that painstaking preparatory work is crucial to getting pristine finished results.

Walls and ceilings must be properly repaired and prepared even before a base coat is applied.

Professional painters also have an eye for details. And because professional painters make a business out of doing interior and exterior surfaces, they understand which techniques can improve efficiency. That means a professional job can typically be completed much more quickly than a DIY project.

Even though some people think they'll save money by painting their own homes, that's not necessarily true. Professionals already have all the equipment necessary, unlike novices who may need to make repeated and potentially costly trips to the hardware store for supplies. Plus, if mistakes happen, DIYers have to spend additional time and money fixing them.

Safety can be a large motivator for turning painting over to a pro. Navigating exterior areas or tall interior ceilings can be challenging and may require scaffolding or tall ladders DIYers do not have. Risk of falls or other injuries increase with lack of experience.

Painting can give a home a facelift, and oftentimes it is smart to turn the work over to professionals to ensure the job is done just right.

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Page 11-B - STILLWATER VALLEY ADVERTISER - OCTOBER 20, 2021

Home Office Must-Haves Remote work has been around for many years, though it certainly picked up steam in 2020. In an effort to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus COVID-19, in March 2020 government officials implemented stay-at-home measures that mandated many working professionals to begin working from home. That transition occurred seemingly overnight, forcing men and women to find somewhere in their homes to work.

As the dust settled and working professionals grew accustomed to working from home, many recognized the need to have an office in their homes. Various factors can make home offices more conducive to getting work done, and the following are some home office musthaves that can help people be more productive while working from home.

Lighting: Lighting is important in a home office. It’s easy to overlook natural light, especially for workers who previously worked in offices that did not have windows. But natural light can help save on energy costs and boost mood. In fact, natural light is a valued commodity for people used to working in office settings. A 2018 survey of more than 1,600 workers conducted by the human resources advisory firm Future Workplace found that access to natural light and views of the outdoors were the most sought after attribute of a workplace environment. When designing their home offices, homeowners should keep this in mind and choose areas of their homes that get ample natural light during a typical workday. Additional lighting also will be necessary.

Recessed lighting can give an office a

sleek look, and lights that can dim can allow workers to adjust their lighting based on how much they need at any given point in the workday.

Quiet: Professionals forced to work at home when social distancing measures were implemented may not have had much quiet, especially for those with young children whose schools were closed. But when designing a home office, homeowners have the chance to

make their offices more conducive to concentration. Kitchens are very popular rooms in many homes, so try to locate your home office away from the kitchen. A spare bedroom upstairs may make for the most ideal home office setting if the home does not have a traditional den. Spare bedrooms come with doors, which can instantly create a sense of quiet when closed. A converted garage also can make for a useful home

office, but make sure the room already has cooling and heating and, ideally, windows.

Electrical outlets: Recently built homes tend to be equipped with enough outlets to accommodate our increasingly connected lifestyles. But older homes may need some electrical updates before they can capably accommodate home offices. When updating your electrical, replace existing outlets

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Page 12-B - STILLWATER VALLEY ADVERTISER - OCTOBER 20, 2021

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is special FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE is brought to you by Arens Corp., publishers of the Stillwater Valley Advertiser. We encourage our readers to support all of these participating local businesses.

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