Parade of Homes

Spring 2015 FREE To The Public

April 25-26 - May 2-3

Saturday 10am - 5pm • Sunday 1pm - 5pm

PROUD SPONSORS OF THE SPRING PARADE OF HOMES

Look for the Official Parade of Homes Yard Sign

GOLD SPONSOR

James Connett - Insulation & Fireplaces • Guaranty Bank & Trust SILVER SPONSORS:

Omega Builders • Sunspace Texas • Tom Lyne Plumbing & Irrigation

OFFICIAL

Parade Home

Home Building & Remodeling

Please visit our website to see the progress of our latest projects and spec homes available.

Our New Model Home is currently being built at 4600 Tonbridge Drive, located in South College Station in the beautiful Castlegate II Our most recent project now open at Spring Subdivision.

Our most recent project now under construction is Spring Creek Townhomes, located within the new and exciting Tower Point Development!

Creek Townhomes, located within the new and exciting Tower Point Development.

“Making Your Vision Come True�

J.R. Torres, President & Owner 979-220-2325 | Giltor81@aol.com

www.newvisioncustomhomes.com 2 | April 24, 2015

Parade of Homes

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Parade of Homes

April 24, 2015 | 3

Look for the Official Parade of Homes Yard Sign

OFFICIAL

Parade Home

Spring 2015

Crystal Dupre´

Linda Brinkman

Publisher

Advertising Manager

Geoff Moore

Jim Bob McKown

Realty Marketing

Creative Services Manager

Shauna Lewis

Aaron Beagle

Special Projects Editor

Section Designer

Table of Contents Showcasing 40 Homes

5

Latest Construction, Design Trends

7

Benefits of a Landscaper

13

Index

15

Map

16

Pool Perimeter Landscaping

18

Remodeling

23

First Renovation Projects

24

Mold

25

Carpet Fibers and Types

28

Spring Cleaning

30

ACTUALLY, WE DO OUR BEST THINKING INSIDE THE BOX.

4 | April 24, 2015

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2015 Spring Parade of Homes™ SHOWCASES 40 HOMES

LOCAL BANK. LOCAL BANKERS. LOCAL HOME LOANS.

By Jimmy Pitman, Chairman

Spring Parade of Homes™ Committee • BCS Home Builders Association

On behalf of the Bryan-College Station Home Builders Association, I want to welcome you to the 2015 Spring Parade of Homes ™. On display this weekend will be 40 homes built by some of our community’s finest home builders.

This event is a great opportunity to come and see the latest trends in new construction and interact with our local home builders. It’s a good thing the Parade is over two weekends; this will give ample time to view all of the beautiful homes presented.

Bryan/College Station has seen some

incredible growth in the last five years.

This growth has brought us new ideas and technologies that are being incorporated into our local building community. We are also seeing new neighborhoods and new sections of current neighborhoods develop at a rapid pace that we have not seen in recent years.

This new development is also attracting restaurants and store fronts to open new locations throughout our community. All of these factors working together are giving residents of Bryan, College Station and surrounding areas

more options to choose from when deciding on where to live, work and play.

For the 2015 Spring Parade of Homes™, we are excited to once again offer a mobile app. This free app will help guide and direct you to all the participating homes in the Parade throughout the 13 subdivisions. This can be downloaded through our website at www.bcsbuilders.org.

As a representative of the home builders participating in the

When it comes to understanding this community, no one comes close to our experienced team of bankers. If you’re in the market for a new home, we’d like to be the first—and last—place you stop. Dana and Mark are committed to finding the home loan that best suits your needs.

Showcase

Continued on 9

CREEKMEADOWS.NET

Before you begin your search for a new home, call Dana or Mark about becoming preapproved to make your offer stronger.

Call Today (979) 268-2000

Developed By:

DANA O. ECKHART

VICE PRESIDENT deckhart@banktbt.com MLO ID#394255

Eagle_PoH/Copyright © 2015. All Rights Reserved. 4/15

Where COMMUNITY Meets CONVENIENCE

You’re new home is just a local call away. Call us today at 260-2100!

MARK O. LIGHTSEY

ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT mlightsey@banktbt.com MLO ID#642661

Bryan/College Station

Originating Organization NMLS ID# 495002

Local bank. Local bankers. www.banktbt.com

All loans subject to credit approval and collateral review. Rates, products, and programs subject to change without notice. Payments on loans with variable rates may increase after closing.

Member FDIC

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Parade of Homes

April 24, 2015 | 5

Emerald Ridge Estates A Gated Acre, Upscale Homesite Community

In the Heart of Aggieland!

• Gated 24hour video surveillance with remote

SOLD

SOLD

viewing • All city utilities

SOLD

SOLD SOLD

SOLD

available • Lake lots and

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

rolling terrain.

EmeraldRidgeEstates.com • 979.774.2900 6 | April 24, 2015

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SEE THE LATEST CONSTRUCTION, DESIGN TRENDS during Parade of Homes ™

By John Magruder, President BCS Home Builders Association

On behalf of the BCS Home Builders Association, I want to welcome you to the 2015 Spring Parade of Homes™. Whether you are in the market for a new home or just looking for ideas, the Parade of Homes™ is the place for you to discover exciting new trends in construction and home design. This is an excellent opportunity to meet the builder personally and to learn how they can build you

the home of your dreams.

This year’s Spring Parade of Homes™ is sponsored by James Connett – Insulation & Fireplaces, Guaranty Bank & Trust, Omega Builders, Sunspace Texas, Tom Lyne Plumbing & Irrigation, Atmos Energy, Chestnut Ridge Homes, Oldham Goodwin Group, Sharp Propane, Sunshine Custom Built Pools and Tim Bailey Plumbing.

We also appreciate the support of Boneheads Restaurant, BMC

Building Materials, B/ CS Habitat for Humanity, Dealer’s Lighting, Factory Builder Stores and Kinsmen Homes.

Homes will be open April 25 and 26 and May 2 and 3. Hours on Saturdays are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays 1 to 5 p.m.

Admission to the homes is free to the public. To view the homes, look for the map in the Parade of Homes™

CONTACT:

Bryan and Jennifer Reece

Trends

979.635.4800 info@reece-homes.com www.reece-homes.com

Continued on 9

Have you experienced a large rate increase on your home & auto coverage after several years with the same company?

Try our independent

Business • Personal ental ProPerties • Bonds Bon rental

agents for a quote and be surprised.

Rodney Hurt ‘77 • Bradley Hurt ’00 • Nick Lutz Ryan Carr • Gary Griffin • Donna P Beeler 3840 Corporate Center Dr. • Bryan 7 74-3900 • Fax: 7 74-3955 • www.sigBCs.Com T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

Parade of Homes

April 24, 2015 | 7

New Homes For Sale in Creek Meadows, Creek Meadows Estates, Carters Crossing and Cedar Ridge at Greenbrier

John Magruder ‘04, Builder

Terrence Murphy ‘05, Broker/Realtor

magruderhomes.com 979.324.6682

tm5properties.com 979.820.7036

Aggie Owned and Operated.

8 | April 24, 2015

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see Showcase Continued from 5

see Trends Continued from 7

2015 Spring Parade of Homes ™, we thank you for taking time to visit our homes over the next two weekends.

We appreciate the opportunity to display our product and answer questions about the building process. Each home participating has a unique story to tell and we look forward to sharing them with you.

special section in The Eagle on Friday, April 24 or visit the Bryan-College Station Home Builders Association website at www.bcsbuilders.org.

The map will also be available in The Eagle on Saturday and at Parade Homes.

Another exciting and innovative addition to get you to the homes you want to see, as well as learn more about them, is that you will be able to pull up BCS Home Builders Association’s map by visiting www. bcsbuilders.org, Get information about our Map App or send a text to #313131 and put in the keword: BCSHOMES. You can also follow the BLUE DIRECTIONAL SIGNS and find the official RED Parade of

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Homes™ sign which will be located in the yard of each participating builder’s home.

Residential and commercial construction is evident as you travel in or around Bryan-College Station. This year we are excited to have 40 homes on display from 24 local builders.

The BCS Home Builder Association members are committed to building homes and neighborhoods where you can enjoy the great quality of life that this area is known for. This year’s BCSHBA member participants include 5K Homes, Blackstone Handcrafted Homes, Bluestone Partners, Chestnut Ridge Homes, Flagship Custom Homes, Hamilton Custom

Trends

Continued on 11

WHAT’S YOUR PROJECT? We have the tools for any job Homeowner - Contractor

Redtail Rental

equipment rental, sales & service

www.redtailrental.com

Parade of Homes

3101 Longmire Dr. College Station 979-696-5696

April 24, 2015 | 9

Building Quality that Stands the Test of Time

A

ny homebuilder can advertise quality and craftsmanship, but it takes the hard earned reputation of a company like Borski Homes building for 2 generations and 50 consecutive years of building experience, to really make a name for yourself in this industry.

As a family owned and operated company, we know the value of a good name. This is why we personally attend to each home we build and choose only the finest craftsmen and materials available. We strive to provide the newest and most innovative products that meet the highest standards...ours.

At Borski Homes, we are ready and willing to work closely with you and /or your architect to make sure your custom home is the home you’ve always dreamed of. If a custom home is in your future, let us show you why Borski homeowners are our best advertising.

Donald Borski ‘80

Danny Borski ‘77

9 7 9 . 7 7 6 . 5 8 5 2 •b o r s k i h o m e s . c o m •3 0 3 0 E a s t 2 9 t h S t S u i t e 1 2 0 B r y a n , T X 7 7 8 0 2 10 | April 24, 2015

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Oaks Estates, Indian Lakes, Miramont, North Country Estates, Pebble Creek and Saddle Creek.

Homes, Heath These homes range Townsend Homes, JMV from 2,068 to 4,300-plus Custom Homes, Kinsmen square feet, and are Homes, Magruder Homes, north to south, east to Mariott Homes, Matthew west. With this type of Brynn, Novella Designer variety to choose from Homes, Oakwood Custom you are sure to find the Homes, Omega Builders, right fit for you and your family.

Pitman Custom Homes, RNL Homebuilders, Take advantage of Raven Homes, Reece the beautiful spring Homes, Ridgewood weather. We look forward Custom Homes, Schaefer to seeing you and hope Custom Homes, Stylecraft you find your next home Builders, Trident Homes while touring the houses and Weber Custom included in the Spring Homes.

Parade of Homes™.

You can meet these The Bryan-College builders in 13 of the Station Home Builders finest subdivisions in Association, dba Greater the area, including Brazos Valley Builders Austin’s Colony, Association, is a not-forBird Pond Estates, profit trade association, Castlegate II, Cedar affiliated with the Ridge at Greenbrier, Texas Association Creek Meadows, Estates of Builders and the at Creek Meadows, National Association Greenbrier, Hidden of Home builders,

see Trends Continued from 9

chartered in 1967 to promote and protect the building industry and its customers in Brazos County and its contiguous counties. Our mission is to cultivate a positive business environment in the building industry. We are committed to responsible growth by providing citizens with safe, quality and cost effective housing while promoting a positive economic future for the counties the association serves.

Greg Pruitt

Ph: (936) 399. 4674 Fax: (936) 399. 4675 Toll: (8887) 269. 9969

28555 Plesant Grove Rd. North Zulch, TX. 77872 When Greg Pruitt brought Foam Insulation to the Brazos Valley 11 years ago, the market was like a cow looking at a new gate,… very suspicious! Today, the market has changed so much. Most customers are aware that foam insulation with the proper air conditioner can save them half or more on their electric bills. Wow, what a savings! Can you imagine, a 4200sq foot house with electric bills from $100$175.00? It just does not get much better. Today’s air conditioner contractors are much more in tune to the smaller tonnage than they were 11 years ago, but just in case your ac contractor is still stuck on the 500sq ft per ton, call me and we will help both you and you AC contractor understand why you want less rather than more tonnage when you insulate with foam. We remain the most knowledgeable contractors in the area on how foam and air-conditioning affect your home.

Rock-Crete Foam Insulators also offers sprayed fiberglass and sprayed cellulose for those of you that want a hybrid system.

Greg Pruitt has helped many homeowners that are contracting their own homes to better understand the building process. If you happen to be a member of the TN Club, Greg can show you how to save thousands on the purchase of many items going into your home; appliances, lightning,insulation,AC, electrical,and furniture.

Rock-Crete’s goal is to help you save money and we have many ways to do that!

Insulation that pays you back!

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Can you imag house wit ine, a 4200sq foot h electric bil ls from $100-$175.0 0?

Got an ex istin g hom floors,? A e? Hot at barn you tic? Col d can’t sta about a d nd to use iesel tank ? What that gets about a water in porch th it? How at is too Rock-cret hot to si e foam in t u nder? sulators, these scen has answ arios. W er s for e can ma home env ke your w ironment ork and m or e comfortabl you money e, and sa in doin g ve so.

www.rock-cretefoam.com Parade of Homes

April 24, 2015 | 11

BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION’S PREMIERE ACREAGE COMMUNITY 1 to 2+ Acre Wooded Homesites

Custom Homes Under Construction!

Swimming Pool & Outdoor Pavilion • Walking Trails • Fishing Park & Pavilion 60-Acre Nature Preserve • No Timeframe to Build • Restrictive Covenants Use Any Custom Builder

(800) 717-2381 • KINGOAKS.COM

Just 4 Miles From Bryan-College Station

Obtain the Property Report required by Federal Law and read it before signing anything.No FederalAgency has judged the merits or value,if any,of this property.These materials and the features,facilities and amenities described and depicted

12 | April 24, 2015

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THE MANY BENEFITS of hiring a professional landscaper The flowers are blooming, and the grass has begun to grow anew, making spring a great time for homeowners to once again turn their attention to landscaping.

Those who aren’t looking forward to dusting off their lawnmowers and rethreading their string trimmers may want to hire professional landscapers to tend to their lawns and gardens.

A recent joint study by the National Gardening Association, Residential Lawn and Landscape Services and the Value of Landscaping found that homeowners spend roughly $45 billion per year on professional lawn and landscape services, as nearly 30 percent of all households across the United States use at

least one type of lawn or landscape service. The rising use of lawn care services is indicative of homeowners’ appreciation of the convenience and craftsmanship professional services can provide. While the impact professional landscapers can have on a property’s aesthetic appeal is considerable, homeowners also benefit from working with professional landscapers in various other ways.

• Time savings: One of the biggest benefits of leaving lawn care to the professionals is the amount of time it will save for the average homeowner. Lawns generally need to be mowed once per week during the spring and summer seasons and,

T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

depending on the size of the property, that can take an hour or more.

Add the time it takes to clean up clippings, mulch landscaping beds and edge the property, and homeowners can expect to devote a significant chunk of their weekends to caring for their lawns.

Lawn services employ a few workers who make fast work of the job, leaving homeowners time to enjoy their weekends however they see fit.

• Reduced risk for injury: Maintaining a landscape is hard work, and those unaccustomed to this type of activity may find themselves

Benefits

Providing Brazos Valley with the highest quality and best pricing on Blinds, Shades, Shutters and Draperies.

Call today for a free in home consultation:

Continued on 19

979-446-1462 | www.svshuttersandblinds.com

Parade of Homes

April 24, 2015 | 13

BANKERS YOU KNOW. COMMITTED TO YOUR SUCCESS. With so many banks changing recently, it's important to remember that Commerce National Bank stands committed to this community and offers the stability you want in a bank. If you're finding out that your old bank is changing the rules (and your account number), then now is the time to switch to bankers you know at CNB. With Commerce National as your partner, anything is within reach.

M E E T O U R F R IE N DL Y S T A F F from left to right: TOM MAYNARD, RANDY RIPPLE, BARBARA PRATT, CARRIE HINES, HEATHER PRICE, TINA ROSATI, GLENN BOONE, MIKE MCBERTY

COMMERC E N B.COM

14 | April 24, 2015

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MAP IS ON PAGE 20-21 Map #

Builder

Subdivision

Address

Sq. Ft.

# Bed

# Bath

1

Oakwood Custom Homes, Ltd.

North Country Estates

3165 Vaquero Drive

2783

4

3

2

JMV Custom Homes

Austin's Colony

3024 Archer Circle

2299

4

3

3

Mariott Homes, Inc.

Austin's Colony

3064 Archer Circle

2238

4

Oakwood Custom Homes, Ltd.

Austin's Colony

3081 Archer Circle

2637

4

3

5

Pitman Custom Homes

Cedar Ridge at Greenbrier

3325 Covington Court

2534

4

3

6

Ridgewood Custom Homes

Cedar Ridge at Greenbrier

3312 Covington Court

2415

4

2.5

7

Magruder Homes

Cedar Ridge at Greenbrier

3309 Lewisburg

2483

4

3

8

Novella Designer Homes

Greenbrier

4643 River Rock Drive

2401

4

3

9

JMV Custom Homes

Greenbrier

4655 River Rock Drive

2977

4

3

10

Stylecraft Builders

Greenbrier

3405 Lockett Hall Circle

3407

3

2.5

11

Hamilton Custom Homes

Miramont

3328 Legacy Court

3450

4

4.5

12

Raven Homes

Hidden Oaks Estates

7461 Hidden Pond

3500

3

2.5

13

Blackstone Handcrafted Homes

Bird Pond Estates

5002 Trumpeter Swan

14

Hamilton Custom Homes

Pebble Creek

1101 Mission Hills

3321

4

3.5

15

Schaefer Custom Homes

Pebble Creek

1404 Royal Adelade

3156

3

2

16

5K Homes

Pebble Creek

1406 Royal Adelade

3595

4

4

17

Mariott Homes, Inc.

Pebble Creek

1415 Royal Adelade

18

Trident Homes

Pebble Creek

5200 Kinloch

3219

4

3.5

19

Mariott Homes, Inc.

Pebble Creek

5142 Stone Water Loop

4

3

20

Schaefer Custom Homes

Indian Lakes/The Settlement

3412 Chenoa Cove

2869

4

3

21

Raven Homes

Indian Lakes

18767 Kiowa Cove

4300

4

4

22

Kinsmen Homes

Castlegate II

4415 Norwich Drive

2889

4

3

23

David Weekley

Castlegate II

4204 Norwich Drive

4050

5

4

24

Matthew Brynn, LLC

Castlegate II

4200 Egremont Court

3000

4

3

25

Bluestone Partners

Castlegate II

4201 Egremont Court

2776

4

3

26

Kinsmen Homes

Castlegate II

2523 Kimbolton

2745

4

3.5

27

Omega Builders

Castlegate II

2528 Kimbolton

2145

4

2

28

Kinsmen Homes

Castlegate II

2607 Cartington Court

2470

4

3

29

Chestnut Ridge Homes

Castlegate II

2604 Cartington Court

2845

4

3.5

30

Heath Townsend Homes, LP

Castlegate II

2606 Chillingham Court

2194

3

2.5

31

Stylecraft Builders

Castlegate II

2608 Goodrich Court

2740

5

3.5

32

Magruder Homes

Creek Meadows

15619 Shady Brook Lane

2076

3

2.5

33

Reece Homes

Creek Meadows

4101 Shady Brook Pass

2207

3

2.5

34

Pitman Custom Homes

Creek Meadows

4102 Shady Brook Pass

2068

3

2.5

35

Weber Custom Homes

Creek Meadows

4111 Shady Brook Pass

2463

4

3

36

RNL Homebuilders

Creek Meadows

15617 Wood Brook Lane

4

3

37

Flagship Custom Homes

Estate of Creek Meadows

15739 Timber Creek Lane

2453

4

3

38

Magruder Homes

Estate of Creek Meadows

15746 Timber Creek Lane

2483

4

2.5

39

Weber Custom Homes

Estate of Creek Meadows

15728 Buffalo Creek Loop

2397

4

2.5

40

Blackstone Handcrafted Homes

Saddle Creek

5252 Canvas Back

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April 24, 2015 | 15

Proud Sponsors of the Spring Parade of Homes GOLD SPONSOR

James Connett - Insulation & Fireplaces Guaranty Bank & Trust SILVER SPONSORS

Omega Builders • Sunspace Texas • Tom Lyne Plumbing & Irrigation

BRONZE SPONSOR Sharp Propane • Tim Bailey Plumbing • Atmos Energy Chestnut Ridge Homes • Oldham Goodwin Group

6

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Plan your weekend with our online map at:

WWW.BCSBUILDERS.ORG

16 | April 24, 2015

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April 24, 2015 | 17

Ideas for POOL PERIMETER LANDSCAPING. With the rise of the “staycation,” more and more homeowners are turning their backyards into their own private oases. The centerpiece of many such retreats is a refreshing and inviting pool.

Whether above-ground or inground models, pools make for welcoming spots to enjoy warm days and nights. A new pool can quickly turn a yard into the “it” spot to spend vacations or cool off at the end hot summer days. While pools are often the focal point of a backyard, many homeowners want their pools to blend seamlessly with the rest of their yards.

When transforming a backyard that includes a pool, homeowners should consider a few factors to ensure each afternoon

spent poolside is as safe as it is fun.

SAFETY FIRST

Although the goal may be to soften the lines of the pool and/or create sight barriers that will provide some measure of privacy for swimmers, homeowners must put safety above all else. Before any decorative touches are added, it is important to surround a pool with a slip-resistant surface and fencing (many communities require fences be erected around pools). Consult with a landscaping contractor, who should be knowledgeable about safety codes, or speak to the permit-issuing department at town hall. There should be a list of requirements to ensure pool placement as well as any surrounding

touches are legal and within code.

NONSLIP SURFACES Concrete, brick and pavers and decking are popular materials used to surround a pool.

Installers can make recommendations on materials and finishes, but one suggestion is to choose a rough finish. Pool water can make surfaces slippery.

Concrete that is stamped or scarred provides extra traction than a smooth surface. The same can be said for brick patios and pavers. Avoid smooth stones or pavers with shiny surfaces, as these may only increase the risk of falls.

Pool Landscaping Continued on 21

Serving the Brazos Valley and Surrounding Areas Since 1996 Our Quality Qualtiy Will Get You...

Our Service Will Keep You

Two Full Service Concrete Plants

(979) 778-5199 Locally Owned and Operated 18 | April 24, 2015

Parade of Homes

T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

see Benefits Continued from 13 winded or at risk of injury. Improper use of lawn equipment also is a safety hazard. Leaving the work to professionals can help homeowners avoid strained backs, lacerations, pulled muscles, sunburns, and any other dangers that can result when tackling landscaping projects.

• Financial savings: On the surface, hiring a landscaping service may seem like a costly venture.

However, after crunching some numbers, many homeowners realize that doing the work themselves may cost more in the long run than hiring a professional landscaping service. Homeowners who decide to go it alone must purchase expensive equipment, and those lawn tools will require routine maintenance, which costs additional

money. Inexperienced homeowners may incur extra fees to “fix” mistakes that occur during the learning process. Each year, new seed, fertilizer, mulch, pesticides, and other supplies also must be purchased. But professional lawn care services typically charge a set fee per month, and that fee covers the maintenance of both your property and the equipment needed to keep that property looking great.

• Know-how: Many professional landscapers know how to address lawn care issues that may arise throughout the year.

They will know how to deal with dry patches of lawn or poorly draining areas, and they also can make recommendations on plants that will thrive under certain conditions.

• One-stop shopping: Certain landscaping services provide many different options for

prospective customers.

Basic lawn cuts may be one package, but there also may be services for seasonal seeding, weeding, leaf clean-up, and winterizing.

• Consistent maintenance: Homeowners who frequently travel or spend much of their summers away from home often find that lawn care companies are a wise investment. Established weekly schedules ensure the landscape always will look its best whether homeowners are home or out of town.

Spring is a great time for homeowners to decide if hiring professional landscaping services is in their best interests. The time and money saved, as well as impact professional landscapers can have on a property, makes landscaping services a great investment for many homeowners. GT154042

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20 | April 24, 2015

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Homeowners who have chosen wood or composite decking to surround a pool should talk to their contractor about nonslip protective coatings. Such coatings typically are acrylic-based liquids applied like a paint or sealer. Some composite decks may be crafted with texture or a built-in coating to reduce slipping.

In addition, use nonstick mats on decks and patios to provide a little extra footing where people enter and exit the pool.

the water surface. With an above-ground pool, mulch or stone can do the trick, serving as a barrier so that pool water does not overly drench the surrounding lawn or damage grass after exposure to pool chemicals.

Mulch and stone also will provide drainage from water runoff from the pool and rain.

Another advantage of having an additional barrier between the pool and lawn is that lawn clippings will not be shot into the pool when mowing.

Stone and mulch can be dressed up with statues, lawn ornaments and tolerant plants.

MULCH AND STONE

FINISHING TOUCHES

Homeowners often prefer some combination of mulch or stone to serve as a transition between the pool, concrete or paver hardscape and the lawn. Stone may be more practical for those with inground pools because it will not easily blow onto

Plants can provide the finishing touches for a poolside landscape.

Homeowners should keep in mind that pools are not often shaded from the sun, so plants placed around the pool will need to be sun- and drought-tolerant.

Succulents, such as aloe

see

Pool Landscaping

Continued from 18

T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

and jade, may work, as can the perennial shrub yucca. Moderately growing grasses will offer a privacy barrier.

Keep trees and flowering plants far enough away from the poolﾃ不 edge so they do not contribute to debris that falls into the pool, which can complicate maintenance.

Also, flowering plants may attract insects and other wildlife that may interfere with your enjoyment of the pool. Itﾃ不 better to create a friendly environment for wildlife further away from the pool.

Homeowners who need some advice planning the landscaping around their pools can rely on the expertise of landscape architects as well as employees at lawn and garden centers. Pool companies may work with landscapers and offer recommendations to people unaccustomed to working around pools. GT154052

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April 24, 2015 | 21

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1901 Greenfield Plaza • Bryan, TX 77802 • Phone: 979.846.3751 • Fax: 979.260.9765 • Email: mls@bcsrealtor.com or association@bcsrealtor.com 22 | April 24, 2015

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REMODELING spending increases as renovations are on the rise.

In the not-so-distant past, home improvement projects all but came to a halt, as homeowners were weary about investing any money into fixeruppers. But the tides have changed dramatically in recent months, and homeowners are again ready and willing to invest big dollars into home renovations.

Renewed confidence in the economy and an upswing in the real estate market have contributed to the remodeling frenzy.

In early 2014, the Joint Center for Housing Statistics of Harvard University forecasted nearly $150 billion in major remodeling spending over the year. JCHS said as homeowners gain more confidence in the housing market, theyÕre more likely to undertake home improvements they would

have avoided in recent years.

While the numbers do not yet match prerecession remodeling spending, the number of construction projects has steadily trended upward.

According to the National Association of Home Builders, as of November 2014, a greater number of remodelers reported higher business activity than during the previous quarter. Remodeling spending has been gradually climbing back up from the all-time low it reached in 2009.

This growth in home renovations has led to more jobs for carpenters, plumbers, painters, electricians, and other construction workers.

In Massachusetts alone, a recovery in overall construction employment has led to a gain of about

T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

18,000 jobs during the past four years.

The Home Improvement Research Institute expects an additional 5.8 percent sales growth in home improvement spending in 2015. States that showed the highest levels of home improvement spending in 2014 are likely to continue to hold the top spots through 2015, and the National Association of Home Builders says these areas include the District of Columbia, Connecticut, New Jersey, Maryland, Massachusetts, and areas of southern California.

Americans are not the only ones increasing their home spending.

According to reports released by Moneris Solutions Corporation, CanadaÕs largest credit and debit card processor,

purchases at home improvement stores rose by 8.49 percent over the same period last year, and spending on plumbing and heating equipment and electrical contractors climbed by 5.14 percent and 5.08 percent, respectively.

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Spending patterns indicate that homeowners are investing in DIY projects as well as seeking specialized work provided by professional contractors.

Now is a good time for the real estate and home improvement

sectors, as homeowners have renewed their fervor for making home renovations, both to increase comfort in their homes and make their homes more buyerfriendly. SH152896

April 24, 2015 | 23

Tips for homeowners on their FIRST RENOVATION PROJECTS.

24 | April 24, 2015

Continued on 26

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help keep contractors on schedule. Paying for all work upfront leaves homeowners at a disadvantage, as it does not provide incentive for workers to be timely and efficient. Check in with workers to get daily progress reports.

• Have reasonable expectations. A renovation project may exceed its budget and take longer than initially expected. Understanding that these potential setbacks might be part of the process will make it easier to handle them when the foreman speaks to you about any issues that arise.

LL PKW

projects and come out relatively unscathed on the other end, where a newly renovated home awaits.

• Plan well and know what to expect. When working with contractors, get all agreements in writing and spell out exactly what you desire in a home renovation.

Photo references can help guide contractors and architects. Ask for the full picture of what can be expected with the work, from demolition to the punch list. Knowing what lies ahead can keep you grounded throughout the project.

• Discuss work each day and set payment schedules. Make payments contingent on work completed. This can

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Home renovations are typically exciting, as homeowners get to see the visions of their dream homes come to light right before their very eyes. Turning an outdated bathroom into a modern oasis or an empty basement into the ultimate man cave strengthens the sense of attachment homeowners have with their homes.

But few home renovation projects go from start to finish without experiencing a few bumps in the road along the way. Such bumps can be difficult to handle for homeowners working on their first renovation projects, but there are many ways for novices to navigate the sometimes murky waters of home improvement

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The potentially HARMFUL EFFECTS of mold in your home.

The presence of mold in a home is a sight few homeowners want to see. In addition to being unsightly, mold found in a home can be unhealthy.

While certain cleaners may prove effective at removing mold, homeowners who want to remove existing mold growths and prevent future growths may benefit from gaining a greater understanding of mold and why it grows inside homes.

WHAT IS MOLD? Mold is a blanket term used to describe fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors.

Many species of mold exist, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that some estimates suggest

there may be more than three hundred thousand different species of mold.

Common indoor molds include cladosporium, penicillium, alternaria, and aspergillus.

WHICH CONDITIONS PROMOTE MOLD GROWTH? Homeowners may notice that mold tends to grow in specific areas of their homes but not in others, and thatﾃ不 because molds grow best in certain conditions.

Warm, damp and humid conditions, such as those found in poorly ventilated bathrooms and basements, make ideal breeding grounds for mold.

WHAT ARE THE

T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

EFFECTS OF MOLD EXPOSURE? Molds are a natural and resilient part of the environment, but mold growth indoors should be addressed and avoided.

Mold spores are tiny and invisible to the naked eye, and when these spores attach to wet surfaces, they begin to grow. Once these spores begin to grow, they can then affect people in various ways.

Roughly a decade ago, the Institute of Medicine found sufficient evidence to support a link between exposure to indoor mold and respiratory tract issues, such as coughing and

Mold

Continued on 7

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April 24, 2015 | 25

see Renovation Continued from 24 • Accept the mess.

Construction work is messy. There’s no way to maintain a pristine house when contractors are entering and exiting all day. Dust is bound to be generated, and tools can fill up rooms. A home in disarray can be stressful, but continue to visualize the end result and the mess won’t bother you so much.

• Establish a contingency plan.

Bathrooms and kitchen renovations are typically the most disruptive home improvement projects. Going without a kitchen can make it difficult to enjoy meals at home, while a bathroom remodel may require you to navigate water shutoffs. If your project is scheduled to take several months, establish a contingency

plan to deal with the consequences of your renovation project. Speak with family members about using some of their home amenities, and prepare and freeze meals in advance so you can reheat them later on when you don’t have access to your stove.

• Plan your escape.

Sometimes the constant work and mess of construction is too much to bear. Afford yourself time away by visiting

relatives or staying at a hotel. Even a single night away can provide the relief you need.

A home that is undergoing a remodel can be a less than comfortable environment.

But homeowners who have never before lived through a renovation project can take several steps to make the process go as smoothly as possible. SH152902

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MONICA PALASOTA T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

see Mold Continued from 7 wheezing in people who were otherwise healthy. The same report found that mold may trigger asthma symptoms among people with asthma and hypersensitivity pneumonitis, a disease in which the lungs are inflamed when a person breathes in certain dusts he or she is allergic to, in people susceptible to that condition.

Some people who do not have a preexisting condition can still be sensitive to molds. When exposed to mold, such people may experience symptoms like nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, or skin irritation.

HOW CAN EXPOSURE TO MOLD BE DECREASED AT HOME?

Adequate ventilation is arguably homeownersÕ best friend with regard to reducing mold exposure at home. Control humidity levels in areas of the home that tend to be warm and humid, such as the kitchen and bathroom.

Install an exhaust fan in the kitchen and bathroom and a window in the bathroom if yours does not already have one.

The CDC recommends that humidity levels be no higher than 50 percent throughout the day, and an air conditioner and dehumidifier can help you keep indoor humidity levels in check, especially during the summer when humidity levels tend to be their highest of any time during the year.

When renovating your home, remove any existing carpeting from bathrooms and basements and toss out soaked carpets or upholstery as well. If painting will be part of your home renovation

T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

projects, add mold inhibitors to paints prior to application.

Tim Bailey Plumbing, Ltd. is a College Station owned commercial and residential plumbing company that has serviced Bryan / College Station, the Brazos Valley and its surrounding counties since 2010. With a focus on positive relationships with our Bryan / College Station customers, at Tim Bailey Plumbing we have the solution for any plumbing issue.

Mold that grows inside a home is unsightly and potentially unhealthy. But concerned homeowners can take several reactive and proactive steps to reduce existing mold growths and prevent them from returning in the future. SH152903

Tim Bailey Plumbing promises a professional appearance, respectful and courteous service, product knowledge and a continual effort toward complete customer satisfaction. Give us a call to set your appointment today!

Tim Bailey Plumbing Ltd. | PO 11068 College Station 979.204.9800 | www.timbaileyplumbing.com

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April 24, 2015 | 27

Explaining CARPET FIBERS AND TYPES. When buying carpet for the first time, homeowners can be overwhelmed with unfamiliar terminology.

Navigating such terminology, not to mention the vast array of options inside typical carpeting stores, can be difficult and make carpet buyers nervous about making the right decision.

Homeowners looking for carpeting for their homes are bound to hear about particular fibers and types of carpets. But such talk is lost when buyers don’t understand carpet fibers and what makes each type of carpet unique. The following rundown of the various carpet fibers and types of carpet should help homeowners make more informed decisions.

CARPET FIBERS

When a carpet salesman or store employee references “carpet fiber,” he or she is referring to the type of material used to make a particular carpet. No two fibers are the same, as each feels different to the touch and reacts to routine wear and tear differently. Here are the five most popular carpet fibers: • Nylon: Nylon is the most durable carpet fiber, and that has contributed to its popularity. Nylon is available in a wide range of styles and is a flexible material. Many nylon carpets come with a stain-resistant treatment to protect the material from common stains and spills.

• Polyester: Highly resistant to stains and fading, polyester is soft, and today’s polyester

carpets are more resilient and durable than those of yesteryear.

• Triexta: Triexta is a type of polyester fiber that is especially soft. A relatively recent addition to the market, triexta carpet fibers are especially susceptible to stains and spills.

• Olefin: Olefin carpet fibers are among the least expensive, thanks in part to its lack of durability compared to other fibers.

Olefin carpet fibers repel UV rays and therefore donÕt fade when exposed to sunlight.

• Wool: Wool tends to be the most expensive carpet fiber, but that cost is offset by its considerable durability and soft feel. Wool carpets can last several decades, but they also are high maintenance and not especially resistant to

stains.

CARPET TYPES The type, or style, of carpet refers to how the carpet is designed.

The type of carpet homeowners choose may depend on where in their homes the carpet will be installed.

• Frieze: Frieze carpet, sometimes referred to as twist carpet, is made of twisted strands of carpet, and many homeowners prefer frieze carpet because of its modern and stylish look. Frieze carpet can be somewhat expensive, which is why some homeowners install it in bedrooms and sitting rooms where it won’t be susceptible to high traffic.

• Saxony/Cut pile: Saxony or cut pile carpet is ideal for high traffic areas, such as the living room or hallways. That’s

because it tends to be resistant to matting and crushing and still feels soft underfoot.

• Berber: Berber carpets, often referred to as loop carpets, are especially durable, making them strong options for high-traffic areas of a home. Though there are variations in loop carpets, a traditional

loop carpet is created when yarn is sewn or tufted into the backing and left uncut.

Choosing a carpet for a home is no small task, but homeowners who educate themselves about the various carpet fibers and styles can find the right fit for their homes.

SH152928

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April 24, 2015 | 29

Get started now on SPRING CLEANING! Warmer temperatures and longer hours of sunlight can recharge energy levels. Upon the arrival of spring, homeowners dust off their to-do lists and charge ahead with renewed vigor.

But before homeowners can get started on renovation projects, many must tame the existing mess that may have built up over the winter. Spring is a great time to dive into spring cleaning projects and ready a home for a season of renovation and remodeling.

Getting started on spring cleaning can be a tad overwhelming.

In 2012, OnePoll asked 1,000 adults living in the United Kingdom how they felt about spring cleaning, and 41 percent of those surveyed

30 | April 24, 2015

found spring cleaning a daunting process while 68 percent had negative feelings about spring cleaning. But in spite of that initial lack of enthusiasm, respondents said they felt happy and more organized once they finished their spring cleaning. Establishing a plan and setting reachable goals can make spring cleaning a lot less daunting.

• Set aside several days for spring cleaning. A long weekend is a great time to do some spring cleaning, as having consecutive days to clean will reduce the chances you grow distracted.

• Make a list and purchase all of the supplies you will need.

Again, this will help you stay on course, rather than going out to the store to pick up cleaners

or organizational systems.

• Try to set reasonable goals. Even if you hope to clean the entire house, stick to the one or two rooms that are most desperate for your attention. Divide each task into a series of steps so when you complete each step you will feel proud that youÕre making progress.

• Create your musical playlist. A playlist full of your favorite songs can provide some inspiration and energy to push you through the spring cleaning when your enthusiasm starts to wane. The music also may take your mind off of the work ahead and help to pass the time.

• Start from the top and work downward.

Follow a logical cleaning order. Begin by dusting

away cobwebs and lighting fixtures. Clean light switches and walls.

Empty closets and then restock them in a more organized fashion. Leave the furniture and flooring for last, as dirt and dust may accumulate on furniture and flooring as you clean other areas of the home.

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• Be prepared to bid adieu to some of your stuff. Have a few trash bags at the ready.

Reorganize items you wonÕt be keeping into separate piles, with one pile for items you plan to donate and another for those items you will discard. Donate what you can and promptly put the

remainder of the items at the curb for pickup.

• Stay fed and hydrated. Cleaning can be physically and emotionally exhausting.

Take breaks to fuel up on food and always have a refreshing beverage close by. SH152933

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