April 28, 2013

YOUR

Spring Edition

2013

A COMPLETE GUIDE TO HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS, RENOVATIONS AND LAWN & GARDEN MAINTENANCE

U2 Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star

Vernon Home Owners are Saving Big on Hydro Bills

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Vernon home owners are discovering an inexpensive and innovative new way to cool their homes without using electricity. With hydro rates steadily rising and increasing environmental concerns, many Vernon residents are realizing the benefits of using an exterior shade screen product. Developed in the Sun-Belt states like Arizona and California; exterior shade screens have proven to be the most effective and economical way to cool a home or R.V. These screens block up to 90% of the sun’s heat and lower interior temperatures by up to 10° Celsius and they don’t block your view like blinds or drapes.

Studies by the U.S. Dept of Housing and Urban Development have proven that shade screens on the outside of the window is up to 7 times more effective at stopping heat than blinds, drapes or shade products on the inside. The state of California even offers a rebate program to Californians who install exterior shade screens. This reduces the huge drain air conditioners have on California’s energy supply.

According to the U.S. Dept of Energy, air conditioners

per Square Foot

use up to 16% of U.S. electricity and consume 43% of the U.S. peak power load in the summer. “Shade screens have replaced awnings as the most popular method of stopping the heat” says Ray Waddell, owner of local awning company, Central Tarp & Awning.

“We’ve installed shade products for over 30 years in the Vernon area and the exterior shade screen product, EZ Snap™ Exterior Shades, have become the #1 method used to cool homes.

They are very effective and costs about 75% less than awnings”, says Waddell.

With over 2000 hot sunshine hours a year in the Okanagan, the use of exterior shade screens will continue its rapid growth. Like fluorescent lighting, exterior shade screens are one of those rare products that actually pays for itself through energy savings. For more information on how exterior shade screens will save you money, contact Central Tarp and Awning at 549-5251 and view their web-site at www.centraltarp. com or the EZ Snap web site at www.ezsnapdirect.com. Finally we can block the heat without blocking the view.

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Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star U3

What to look for in

Weight - Unlike furniture inside the home, outdoor furniture will be moved around quite frequently, such as to protect it from inclement weather or changing seasons. As a result, the weight of the furniture bears importance. While you don’t want furniture that’s too lightweight and will blow away any time, it’s a good idea to choose furniture that isn’t too heavy. This makes it easier to move should a storm suddenly appear and it won’t require the entire household to help move the furniture into and out of the garage when inclement weather arrives.

hind an outdoor entertaining area is to have a relaxing place to spend time outside. So be sure to choose furniture that’s comfortable and can handle the elements. Metal furniture, for example, might be durable, but such furniture can also get very hot if out in the sun.

Versatility - Many homeowners enjoy changing their home’s interior decor from time to time, and it can be just as enjoyable to do the same to a home’s exterior decor. That said, look for furniture that can be accented with a variety of accessories, so you can change the look of your outdoor entertaining area easily.

Protection -

Protecting exterior furniture from the elements should be a priority. When shopping for outdoor furniture, figure out if protective covering is available or if it will need to be custom made. The latter alternative can be quite expensive, so consider more generic furniture that comes with standard protective coverings to make it more affordable.

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Comfort - The whole idea be-

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Outdoor entertaining areas have always been popular among homeowners. To entertain friends and family or simply relax by yourself is something homeowners cherish, particularly during the warm weather seasons. Finding the right furniture to match your outdoor area, be it a deck, patio or poolside lounging area, is essential to making the most of this special area of the home. When shopping for outdoor furniture, consider the following.

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U4 Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star

Cost-effective &eco-friendly home improvements

Homeowners take on projects to improve their homes for a variety of reasons. Some may do so to make a home more functional, while others may do so to improve their home’s resale value.

Council notes that today’s energy-efficient refrigerators will use less than half the energy of models made as recently as 15 years ago.

as a result. Homeowners can also install high-efficiency toilets that use as little as 1.3 gallons of water per flush (compared to older models that consumed as many as 5 gallons per flush).

Install high-efficiency water fixtures.

Install a programmable thermostat. * * Few people think about how much wa- Programmable thermostats present an-

Some homeowners take on a home improvement project to make their homes more eco-friendly. Such projects are often mistakenly assumed to be costly undertakings, but there are several cost-effective ways to make a home more eco-friendly.

ter they consume over the course of a typical day, but the figures might be eye-opening to those who hope to adopt a more eco-friendly lifestyle. It’s generally accepted that the average person uses between 80 and 100 gallons of water each day. Showers seem to be especially wasteful, as older shower heads might be using as much as 5 gallons per minute, or 50 gallons of water during a 10-minute shower.

*

Upgrade your appliances. A home improvement project does not have to require the use of a hammer and nails or the hiring of a contractor. A simple home improvement project like upgrading older appliances, including the washer and dryer, to newer, more efficient models can give a home a fresh look while reducing energy consumption.

That reduction in energy consumption is a byproduct of the stricter standards placed on manufacturers who must adhere to guidelines to produce products that are more energy-efficient. For example, the Natural Resources Defense

insulation to a home can reduce energy consumption in the winter, when the home will feel warmer and allow you to keep the thermostat at a more reasonable number.

*

Add more insulation. Adding more insulation or replacing older insulation used to be an especially laborious process. However, in many instances insulation can now be added or upgraded to a home without any major reconstruction or demolition, reducing the cost of the project considerably. Adding more

Older fixtures that consume such massive amounts of water can be easily and affordably replaced with newer, more efficient fixtures. Today’s high-efficiency low-flow showerheads can provide a strong shower stream while reducing water consumption. Such showerheads are also less taxing on your water heater, reducing your energy consumption

other affordable way to improve a home and benefit the environment. Some of today’s programmable thermostats can record personal preferences and usage and determine the best course of action for heating and cooling your home.

Temperatures can be adjusted roomby-room, and the programmable thermostat allows homeowners to control their heating and cooling while they’re out of the house, ensuring they’re not paying to heat or cool an empty house and wasting energy in doing so.

Home improvement projects don’t have to be a grand undertaking, particularly when a homeowner’s goal is to make a home more eco-friendly. A few minor and affordable changes may be all it takes to improve a home and benefit the environment at the same time.

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A window treatment for every room

In the living room

Your choice of window treatment should always be suited to the type of room it is intended for. In the living room, privacy is usually the most important criterion. Horizontal blinds, Venetian blinds, or shutters provide effective protection from prying eyes, especially at night, and during the day their slats can be adjusted depending on how much light is desired. If the living room windows don’t overlook a high traffic area, long drapes will embellish them while protecting the interior from the sun.

In the bedroom

Essential criteria for the bedroom are privacy and the control of natural light. An opaque shade is certainly a good choice, as it meets both these requirements. Shades with original patterns are also opaque and are very popular for children’s bedrooms.

Horizontal blinds are an interesting choice, as light levels can be adjusted and they can also be combined with curtains for even more opacity.

Curtains are not ideal for controlling light and privacy, but combined with a

shade or a blind, their esthetic appeal can still be taken advantage of. It’s also possible to use lined curtains or drapes that are opaque enough to reduce the intensity of natural light.

In the kitchen and bathroom

A rigid, low-maintenance horizontal blind is practical for the kitchen.

Wood and faux wood are very popular. Horizontal blinds are also a wise choice for the bathroom, although it is important that they be made of water resistant materials that will not lose their shape, especially if the room has poor ventilation or if the blind is near the shower. Faux wood is a good choice.

Shades ensure privacy, while curtains are more decorative.

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Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star U5

U6 Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star

Managing difficult yard situations pensive. Some homeowners find that tilling the soil and amending it with a fiber mulch helps to absorb extra water and make the conditions better for lawn seeds to sprout. This also helps to aerate compacted soil that can hinder grass growth. Adding soil fill also may help to level low-lying areas that can be puddling.

Many homeowners aim for a picture perfect lawn complete with rolling acres of soft, green grass. But Mother Nature may have other things in mind, providing homeowners with less-thanstellar growing conditions for their lawns, plants and other foliage. Frustration can mount when a yard is muddy, is especially shady or has soil that doesn’t seem to grow a thing. In such instances, homeowners may have to go the extra mile to get the yard they desire.

Irrigation issues

Improper drainage or low-lying areas in a yard may contribute to a muddy mess. Soil that is inhospitable for grass also may end up causing muddy patches because the grass simply does not grow. In some cases, remedying a muddy yard is easy and inex-

Some homeowners find that they need to do a little more work and spend some more money to fix irrigation issues. Installing a draining system or having the property sloped to draw water away can sometimes be done by a homeowner but is often best left to a professional. You may need to dig trenches, and the property may need to be regraded to make a difference.

certain grasses, while inadequate sunshine may result in bare patches where grass won’t grow. If cost is no object, removing or planting trees to establish better growing conditions could be an option. However, today there are many grass blends that are tailored toward specific sunlight scenarios. Homeowners may find that low-light blends will grow better in shady areas.

For those who are finding no luck with grass blends, it may just be necessary

Sandy soil

Grass and other plants may not grow well with sandy or clay soil. Again, amending the soil is one way to remedy the problem. Although it will take some work at the outset, amending the soil can improve conditions and reduce how much maintenance the lawn needs. Digging down several inches and adding nutrient-rich filler soil will help create conditions that are better for growing. Those who are interested in planting vegetables could opt for raised garden beds above the challenging soil.

Shade

Sometimes a yard is problematic because of the amount of sunshine it receives. Too much sunshine can scald

A new roof can be one of the more expensive repairs for homeowners. But homeowners don’t have to break the bank when it comes to replacing a roof, which can be made from a variety of materials that can vary greatly in price. Asphalt shingles are the most affordable roofing material and that budget-friendly price is one reason why asphalt shingles are so popular. The asphalt shingles of today are also durable, which was not always the case.

Ceramic tiles are another roofing material, but these tend to be quite expensive. However, their price has made them quite rare, which might be attractive to prospective buyers when the time comes to sell the house. Durable

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and aesthetically appealing, metal roofing is another option that’s popular in areas they get heavy snowfall because snow does not build up on the metal like it might on other materials. The price of metal roofing varies significantly, so homeowners considering a metal roof should do some comparison shopping before making a decision. Slate tiles are another roofing material, but one that’s very labor-intensive to install and, as a result, costly as well.

But slate tiles are very durable, in some cases lasting as long as half a century or more, so homeowners who install slate tile can rest easy knowing the roof they install now will likely be the last roof they ever pay for.

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There are different options for managing various situations in the yard that can make growing lawn or other plants challenging. If projects are difficult, it could be smart to call in a professional.

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DID YOU Landscape fabrics are used to prevent weed growth while still allowing air, oxygen and water to flow to and from the soil. Landscape fabrics are a chemical-free way to prevent weed growth, endearing them to eco-friendly homeowners. Landscape fabrics, once laid, also are a far less labor-intensive method to prevent weed growth, as they can be effective for several years,

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during which homeowners can expect to perform little or no maintenance. In addition, many homeowners prefer landscape fabrics because they can help the soil effectively maintain moisture during dry periods, when gardens might otherwise be highly susceptible to drought. Once put down, landscape fabric can be covered with mulch to add aesthetic appeal.

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Addressing drafts around the house Homeowners know that no home is perfect. Sometimes a home’s biggest issue can be relatively small and easy to fix, while other issues are more substantial and require a bit more time and money.

Drafts around the house fall somewhere in the middle of that spectrum. Though not necessarily difficult or costly to fix, drafts can be an uncomfortable nuisance and may require a little more elbow grease than more minor issues around a house. The following are a few ways homeowners can address drafts around the house. * Check the fireplace. If the damper on the fireplace is open, drafts will enter the home. Simply close the damper and the home will likely get a lot less drafty.

* Hang heavier curtains or drapes.

Another way to address a drafty room is to hang thick curtains or drapes in front of the window. The heavier the material, the more effective it will be at keeping cold air from circulating around the room.

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* Inspect the attic. When a home is heated, the air inside that home is pressurized, driving that air through ceiling penetrations and into the attic. This creates leaks that allow warmth to escape the house while inviting colder air in.

Plug any air leaks into the attic, which should eliminate drafts as well as condensation.

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* Check for gaps around windows and doors. Windows and doors that aren’t properly sized are no doubt inviting drafts into the home. The

solution to this problem doesn’t have to break the bank. Instead of replacing old windows and doors, use weather stripping and press it into the gaps around the frame.

This can block drafts, and you should be able to notice an immediate difference.

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U8 Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star

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od, sometimes called turf, can quickly turn a barren landscape into a rich, thick carpet of green.

Homeowners hoping to revive their lawns commonly turn to sod as the quickest means to do just that. However, once the sod has been laid down, few homeowners may know how to keep it looking its best.

Sod is real grass that is grown on special farms. It is generally grown locally to avoid long transport times that could dry out the product. Sod is typically sold in squares or rolls of grass that come with the roots and soil already attached. There may be some sort of thin backing material on the sod to keep the grass blades together.

Many homeowners turn to sod when growing lawn from seed becomes problematic or too time-consuming. Seeds can be blown around in the wind or be eaten by birds and other animals before they have a chance to germinate.

Sodding a lawn is a major investment, costing as much as $1 per two-foot square. Depending on the size of your lawn, this can be a costly job even before adding the cost of additional supplies, such as soil, fertilizer and tilling equipment. Many homeowners who install sod want to ensure their investment lasts.

Here are the main ways to care for and protect sod until it is fully established.

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Once the sod has been laid down, the lawn should be thoroughly soaked with water. Most experts recommend soaking it to a depth of 6 inches.

*

It is important to establish a

watering schedule to keep the sod moist. Water the sod to a depth of one inch every other day for the first three weeks to enable the roots to securely establish themselves in the soil.

* Water the sod every other day

unless the weather has been very warm. After four weeks you can generally go up to five days without watering as long as you transition slowly. The sod will change colors if it is not getting enough water. Never let the lawn turn yellow, otherwise you may have to cut out dead spots and re-sod.

*

Wait two to four weeks before mowing the sod. Keep the lawn height to around two inches to ensure that it won’t scald in the sun.

* After two months of established

sod growth, aerate the sod to keep the soil from being too compact and to enable oxygen and nutrients to get into the soil.

*

Keep children and pets off of the sod while it is establishing itself.

* Fertilize the lawn every 50 to 60

days, beginning in March and ending in October.

* Inspect the sod for pests, which

may include insects or problems like fungi or weeds. Treat accordingly with products designed to remove pests.

Using sod to establish a lush lawn is a fast, albeit more expensive option to sowing seeds. After a few weeks the lawn will be thick and secure.

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Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star U9

Need more A lot of extra living space can be added to a home just by finishing the basement. As well as increasing the value of your house, a finished basement can also improve your quality of life if you design it according to your tastes and your requirements.

In your remodeled space you could set up an office or a wine cellar, add a bedroom or a corner for relaxing, create a play area for the children or an

activity centre for teenagers, or build a family room or a home cinema.

Whatever type of project you decide on, include an extra bathroom in the plan and a practical laundry room with a clothing chute from the upper floors to the basement. Don’t forget to work in plenty of storage space as well as sufficient electrical outlets, telephone jacks, and cable connections.

Once you decide on exactly what

? Finish the basement!

you want, your next step is to draw up a plan. This will help you ensure that there is room enough for people to circulate. Decide if you prefer enclosed rooms or open areas. If activities that require quiet and concentration are planned, such as a home office, a library, or a bedroom, you will probably opt for enclosed rooms. On the other hand, an open area is perfect if you plan to spend time in a communal, multifunctional

Three water-wise tips for your

BACKYARD

(NC) - Gardens can improve the appearance of your property, but they aren’t always what you’d call “water efficient.” Most gardens depend on you to water them, and this can account for a significant portion of a household’s water bill.

But with a little careful planning, you can plant a garden that actually retains and recycles rain water.

If you’re considering doing a backyard makeover this spring, why not consider transforming your outdoor space into a beautiful and sustainable oasis. Here are three features that can have a positive impact on the amount of water you use.

space, such as in a rec room, home cinema, or exercise area.

Draw up a list of the necessary materials and determine what work you can do yourself and what you need to entrust to a contractor. Needless to say, the plumbing and electricity should be carried out by qualified professionals. Establish a schedule that takes into account your priorities and your budget, and you’re on your way!

Before • Plant a rain garden, a planted or stone-covered bed specifically designed to receive stormwater and allow it to be absorbed into the soil slowly. Elevate or terrace your garden beds for the most ‘bang per drop’.

• Redirect down flow from drainpipe to planted areas and rain gardens, and harvest rainwater in cisterns or rain barrels for use during dry periods; • Re-consider your grass lawn.

Lawns are not only very thirsty, but also need fertilizer and maintenance. Try using other kinds of groundcovers instead.

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U10 Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star

Identifying your

preferences

A personal garden is only limited by the constraints of a person’s imagination. The vast array of plants and flowers available from all over the world can turn anyone’s yard into a melange of functional spaces.

fore, even if you desire a Mediterranean look, you may have to settle for something that works better with your landscape conditions.

When designing a garden, many homeowners do not know where to begin. Much like decorating the interior of a home, how a garden landscape is executed depends on various factors.

Landscaping designs often tie into the architectural style of a home. For example, an extensive Asian-inspired garden complete with koi pond and bonsai may look odd in front of a log home.

Keep architecture in mind when planning a garden so the look of the home you present is cohesive and fits with the community and immediate vicinity.

Climate and conditions The foremost consideration when planting a garden is the climate where the garden will be located. Planting items that are not conducive to growing in certain conditions can be counterintuitive and a waste of money and effort.

Prospective gardeners must become familiar with the hardiness zones of their region prior to making any plans.

This will help you to determine which types of plants will thrive on your landscape. Once this is determined, examination of the soil and conditions on the property is also helpful. Taking this step will help identify any plant deterrents, such as poor soil quality and pH as well as any pests that may impede plant growth.

If you live in a hot, sandy location, lush tropical plants may not thrive. There-

Style of the home

Design preferences Are you a free spirit who doesn’t conform to convention with firm boundaries? Or are you one who likes order and things in their place? Knowing what makes you tick will help you to choose a gardening style that will be easier to maintain and also make you feel comfortable. For example, prairie-style planting or wildflower gardens are dramatic ways to create natural points of color over a large area. Most plants are allowed to grow as they may.

Those who like a dreamy ethereal feel to their gardens may be inspired by cottage designs, where generously filled borders overflow into a flower and foliage paradise.

If you are more inclined to follow the rules and like an orderly landscape, a parterre, or formal planting bed, may be more your style. When carefully pruned, box hedging can show off symmetry and geometry in your space.

Some people are more focused on the accents in their gardens than the plants themselves. Modern architecture pairs well with a contemporary style that blends minimalist accents and easy-tomaintain plants.

Although you can change plants in your garden, investing in a garden that you will be happy with for a long time is a costly venture. You may want to consult a landscape architect or local nursery to find the plants and trees that fit with your design and lifestyle. These experts can also instruct you in how to maintain all of your hard work and when to expect the full impact of your new landscape to take form.

Homeowners can browse ideas for gardens in magazines and online, but ultimately it will be up to their personal design preferences and the climate where their home is located to determine which garden will look and grow best.

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Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star U11

work triangle The kitchen is arguably the most-used room in the house during waking hours. Having a kitchen that is laid out in an efficient manner can improve productivity and make for a more enjoyable experience. Designers often stress having an effective work triangle in the kitchen.

The phrase “kitchen work triangle” started with the Building Research Council (formerly the Small Homes Council) at the University of Illinois. The idea came from studies of space usage and the search for efficient kitchen designs. What the triangle essentially means is positioning three key items of the kitchen for efficiency. The stove, sink

and refrigerator represent the three main points of the triangle.

Having these items spaced accordingly can make work easier.

Having them too close together can create a cramped, ineffective room. The placement of the triangle points alone does not make a successful layout. The triangle space should also be measured accordingly. Put 4 to 7 feet between the refrigerator and sink, 4 to 6 feet between the sink and stove and 4 to 9 feet between the stove and refrigerator, with the ideal size resulting in a work triangle where the three sides total between 15 and 22 feet.

Unmistakably Individual Furniture Styles

Submitted by City Furniture

Everyone wants their home to be that perfect mix of chic yet comfy; trendy yet classic; whimsical yet elegant – in short, we want it all. No problem! This year it’s all about just that – mixing furniture styles and attitudes for an unmistakably individual look.

als. Exploring erosion, wear, imperfection and random formations the collection goes beyond simple ecological awareness to create an aesthetic that poses a wide variety of natural materials from driftwood and petrified wood to animal skins and bone fragments.

Four Hands furniture is a trend setting line of furniture that you can find at Restoration Hardware, and it is making its way to Vernon!! Here is a description of a few of the collections within Four Hands:

Sierra:

Irondale:

Balancing dramatic scale with flea marking-find design that offers comfortable seating in fresh lines, lush velvets and buttery top grain leather.

Cast iron beds are accented with linen panels and a vintage patina finish.

Dining and coffee tables are made from reclaimed doors and salvaged architecture paired with old factory machine parts for striking, one-of-akind conversation starters.

Bleu Nature:

Draws inspiration from the effect of passing time on natural materi-

Combining the rustic charm of natural wood with contemporary designs. High-style furnishings that give new life to salvaged woods.

Paired with cast metal hardware, each piece is handcrafted, ensuring no two pieces are ever alike.

Carnegie:

Inspired by the libraries of turn-ofthe-century American aristocracy, timeless elegance and classic design. Top grain leather and stainless steel combinations re-defines luxury.

All of these collections bring unique characteristics and pieces that will create the “WOW” factor in your home. Now, you can get that big city look and style…right here in Vernon at City Furniture & Appliances.

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Open 7 Days a Week FRIDAY NIGHT 'til 9 PM

250-549-3121

5401 Anderson Way Between Kal

Tire & Superstore VERNON

U12 Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star

Hydroponics

Since we opened our doors in mid March of this year, we have spoken to hundreds of people about the value of being able to grow all year round. We have been able to dispel many of the common misconceptions about hydroponics and organics. Most of the folks had some idea, but were hesitant to try it because “they heard things”.

The fact is, hydroponics have been around since the Pharoahs of ancient Egypt enjoyed fruits

Submitted by TLC Hydroponics and Garden Supplies

and vegetables grown without soil.

Since then hydroponics have been, and are, used extensively around the world. Where once fertile soil has been so abused and over farmed, it is now depleted or toxic. In British Columbia, 90% of all greenhouse industry is hydroponic. Genetic mutation, mysterious wonder chemicals and irradiation of foods is a reality in this world. Plants require basic, natural things for normal growth.

Growing without soil and no bells

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“ 3395 Okanagan Street, Armstrong, BC Tim or Laurie - 250-546-9391 www.armstronghydroponics.com

or whistles is more earth friendly.

The truth is, hydroponics uses 70 to 90 percent LESS water, one of our most precious resources, than conventional gardening. The unnecessary use of harsh pesticides and insecticides, no fertilizer runoff to

Get decked out for

Learn about growing hydroponically indoors and traditional outdoor gardening.

We offer seed, plants, planters, garden pots, tools, irrigation, Pro Mix, Natures Gold soil and mulch, nutrients, hydroponic equipment, and much more.

With every purchase of $30 or more enter to win prizes.

PLUS TWO GRAND PRIZES EACH VALUED AT OVER $100.00

Tim Wheeler, along with his wife Laurie, are the owners of TLC Hydroponics and Garden Supplies in Armstrong.

(NC)—Canadians love the outdoors. At the first hint of warmth we hit the deck and patio. Sharon Grech, the colour and design expert for Benjamin Moore, shares some ideas on how to transform the look of your deck and your home with exterior paint and stain.

Brighten up for spring with colour: “The popularity of grey isn’t just an interior trend – grey is a perfect choice to beautify a home’s exterior as it never fights with mother nature’s own vibrancy,” says Grech. Offset a deep grey with a lighter shade on the trim to create some eye catching contrast. A brightly coloured plant adds a pop of colour to this monochromatic palette. Furniture is a

lakes, streams, rivers, and aquifier systems is of major benefit.

Allow us to explain the equipment needed and best nutrients to use, without a lot of effort or expense to you. You will no longer be at the mercy of mother nature.

great way to create either a more formal or relaxed look outdoors.

Accent with a stylish outdoor rug, some weather proof cushions, decorative outdoor accents, and a thirst-quenching tray of drinks.

Protect the deck: Even pressure treated wood benefits from a protective coat of stain to help it survive Canada’s harsh seasons.

A professional favourite is Arborcoat, a line of exterior stains, which can be used on any wood surface. They can be tinted a variety of shades and can deliver a semi-transparent to more opaque look so you can make the surface more beautiful while maintaining the natural appearance of the wood grain.

Serving the Okanagan Since 1989!!

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Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star U13

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Financing available OAC

U14 Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star

Bathroom

Submitted by Ric Wadsworth, Owner Mr. Tubs

Updating your bathroom does not have to be expensive, messy or time consuming. Up-to-date bathtub remodeling can be done that will add elegance and style to any bathroom.

Our affordable one day solutions include: • reglazing of bathtubs • tub to shower conversions • bathtub replacements

Simply Quality Service, Quality Products at Quality Prices.

Hardwood • Laminate • Carpet Fiber Floor Tile & Stone • Cork

CHOICE FLOORING GALLERY 5103 - 25th Street, Vernon BC • 250-260-1042 www.choiceflooring.ca

Transform Your Bathroom in a Single Day! • • • •

Reglazing • Wall Surrounds Tub to Shower Conversions Acrylic Bathtub Liners Removal and Installation of tubs

Call Rick 250-558-8543

www.bathmaster.com • mrtubs@shaw.ca

Facts about Reglazing: Reglazing is much less expensive and much more convenient than bathtub replacement. You could save up to 75% of the replacement cost. Work is done on site. Bathtub, tiles or wall surrounds do not have to be removed. Your flooring and plumbing are undisturbed.

Facts about Bathtub to Shower Conversions: • A great choice for individuals who prefer the extra space of a large shower.

• An affordable solution to more expensive walk in bathtubs.

• Elderly or physically challenged cus-

tomers enjoy a safer bathroom environment, helping them to live a more independent lifestyle.

• All of these processes can be done in one day!

Facts about Replacement Tubs: • If your old tub is failing, a replacement tub is your only option.

• A new bathtub will allow you to get a deeper or wider bathtub.

Instead of completely remodeling your bathroom, in one day, you can update or refinish your existing bathroom fixtures at an affordable price.

transform

your kitchen

Renovating or remodeling a kit­chen is all about putting more life into it, transforming the décor, and designing new storage space. It is also a good investment that years. Whether mobile or fixed, they could increase the value of your add elegance and functionality to any home and facilitate its resale. kitchen. Sinks are now available in a wide range of materials: ceramic, These days, designer kitch- stainless steel, synthetic resins, or, ens with clean and simple lines if you can afford it, marble or fibre are emphasized with the use cement sinks that are indestructible of aluminum, wood, and stainless and totally unique. steel. Work areas are expansive and lit precisely and generously, with Because a total kitchen renovation or numerous electrical outlets for all remodel is a very ambitious project, it is possible to only change some types of appliances. elements, such as the cabinets, back Opening up the kitchen, so as to splash, and worktops. Alternately, new integrate it into the dining room or life can be brought to an old kitchen living room, continues to be the main with a few accessories updates, such remodeling trend. Islands have also as sink hardware, curtains, appliancgained in popularity over the last few es, or kitchen table and chairs.

Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star U15

The benefits of pruning trees and shrubs Pruning

trees and shrubs is necessary to ensure they maintain their health and vigor. Trees and shrubs should be inspected annually to determine if they need to be pruned. Mature trees typically do not need to be pruned as frequently as young trees, which need pruning to establish branch structure. Trees and shrubs that go years without pruning can become overgrown and weak. In addition to promoting tree and shrub health, pruning pays a host of other dividends.

without being pruned become overgrown, making it difficult for plants underneath or adjacent to them to grow in healthy. For example, grass beneath an overg r o w n t r e e

shrub to grow in nicely.

Pruning can sometimes bring •plants back to life. Shrubs that have

gone years without being pruned can sometimes still be salvaged. In some

Pruning can save money. Over •time, overgrown trees might require

professional assistance in order to be removed or pruned from a property.

Homeowners who prune their trees as needed can save themselves the cost of a potentially pricey tree service.

• Pruning

removes dead or diseased branches. Pruning helps a tree or shrub maintain its shape and vigor by removing broken, dead or diseased branches that can be unsightly and make it more difficult for the tree or shrub to stay healthy.

When broken, dead or diseased branches are removed, trees or shrubs look healthier and add aesthetic appeal to a property.

• Pruning

trees and shrubs promotes growth of other plants.

Trees and shrubs that go years

fere with power lines, increasing the risk o f accidents and power outages. In addition, overgrown trees tend to have larger, weaker limbs, which can prove hazardous and cause property damage during storms.

Pruning overgrown trees reduces the risk of such accidents.

Pruning adds curb appeal. A •property littered with overgrown trees might not get adequate sunlight, which it needs to establish strong roots so it can grow in lush and healthy. Pruning allows plants beneath the tree and shrub and even those next to the tree and

instances, pruning such shrubs can restore natural and healthy growth.

Pruning reduces risk of acci•dents.

Overgrown trees can inter-

and shrubs hurts a home’s curb appeal, giving prospective buyers the impression that homeowners might have been careless with regard to maintaining the whole house and not just the lawn. But trees and shrubs that are pruned and well-maintained can add to a home’s curb appeal, something that goes a long way toward impressing prospective buyers.

U16 Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star

A

panoply of trends underfoot

Resisting the temptation of exotic wood flooring will be extremely difficult this year. We will all be dreaming about African mahogany with its warm, classy tones: sand, terracotta, copper, caramel, and even green and blue. Rustic hickory and dark knotty walnut are also high on the dream-renovation list.

Luckily for us, hardwood flooring is now available in a huge range of different finishes. Your natural wood floor can be hand scraped, brushed, or distressed in order to highlight knots and grains.

Easier to maintain, the new hardwood floors that are factory sealed and oiled have a smoother, glossier finish. Pre-varnished wood now comes with embossed surfaces that create a wave-like effect. Moreover, advances in nanotechnology have enabled the production of a varnish with more effective anti-abrasive qualities. Whether pre-varnished or pre-oiled, the new engineered wood floors, which can be used as floating floor or glued directly to the subfloor, ensure good soundproofing.

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DESIGN YOU CAN SEE QUALITY YOU CAN TOUCH COMFORT YOU CAN FEEL ...STYLED TO SUIT YOUR TASTE Create a room that reflects your unique sense of style with our huge selection of quality fabrics and accessories for your home and patio. We have a large selection of drapery panels, drapery rods, cushion covers, and pillow forms to use in a variety of ways to add style, texture, design and character to all of your favorite rooms, inside or out.

The latest in ceramics is perfect for both floors and walls. New porcelain stoneware tiles create a contemporary look. Ceramic and precision-ground enameled porcelain have now taken on the form of planks that vary in shade and texture to imitate wood. And PVC flooring, which imitates wood and even stone, is also available. Innovations in linoleum production have allowed manufacturers to produce a wide range of textures and colours, including an imitation leather that uses eco-friendly materials.

A floorcovering for every room

The latest trends will allow you to choose from some interesting innovations, but of course you will need to take into account the demands of each room before settling on a choice. If your main criterion is comfort, for a bedroom or living room for example, carpet is a traditional choice. For the more environmentally minded, hardwood, engineered wood, laminate, or a floating wood floor are also great choices.

For rooms with higher humidity levels, such as a bathroom or kitchen, ceramic is an especially suitable type of flooring to consider. You could also opt for vinyl or the new types of laminate, which are water-resistant. For a bathroom, think about limiting the risks of slipping as well as comfort. Natural stone could be an interesting choice here.

Engineered hardwood flooring is also a good option for the kitchen, as it is durable and easy to maintain, a perfect combination for this part of your home.

One of the most popular elements of today’s home decors -- hardwood floors.

Flooring in the dining room must be stain resistant. Choose wood, laminate, vinyl, or a dark-coloured carpet. For high traffic areas, such as the entrance hall or the family room, opt for a durable and comfortable floorcovering such as carpeting, hardwood, engineered hardwood, or laminate. For the basement, it is very important that the subfloor be well insulated. Suitable flooring could include carpet, engineered hardwood, laminate, or vinyl. Cork flooring is a great choice for a home cinema room or playroom because of its excellent soundproofing qualities.

All types of flooring are available in varying qualities and a wide range of prices. For help in making the right choice, consult a professional who will be able to give you advice on the style, colour, texture, and motif of your floorcovering for the specific purpose of the room.

DID YOU SPRING FASHION FABRICS NOW IN STOCK

• Outdoor Patio Furniture Fabrics • Cushion Covers • Outdoor Drapery Panels & Rods • Spring Quilting Batiks 5509 - 24th St., Vernon

250-542-0338 www.fabriclandwest.com

Mon. to Thurs.: 9:00am - 6:00pm Fri.: 9:00am - 9:00pm • Sat.: 9:00am - 5:30pm Sun.: 11:00am - 4:00pm

?

More and more homeowners embracing a relatively new way to shower. Walk-in, or walk-behind, showers are doorless structures that are designed to give the shower a more open look. Walk-in showers are often appear larger than more traditional showers, and those that do take up more space do so to prevent water from spraying around the room. Though walk-in showers do not have doors, they do employ a glass partition to keep water in. Walk-in showers often give a bathroom a more modern look, but their role is more than aesthetic. In fact, many seniors find it is easier to get in and out of a walk-in shower, something that could reduce their risk of falling and suffering an injury.

Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star U17

Preventing weed growth a priority for homeowners

Weeds in a lawn or garden can be an unsightly and potentially unhealthy nuisance. No gardener enjoys seeing weeds spring up throughout his or her carefully planted garden, as such uninvited guests rob a well-tended garden of its aesthetic appeal. In addition, weeds can steal valuable water and nutrients from plants, prohibiting their growth as a result.

Homeowners who understand how harmful weeds can be can prevent them in a variety of ways. Where weed growth is insignificant, it might be possible to simply pull them out of the ground before they can do any substantial damage. In areas of heavy weed growth, however, a more concentrated effort must be made to prevent further weed growth once the weeds have been removed.

The following are a few ways homeowners can prevent weeds from growing throughout their lawns.

• Be proactive. Preventing weed growth is a proactive job, so homeowners want to be proactive to keep weeds from infesting their property.

Proper and routine lawn maintenance might be all it takes. Add quality topsoil to your lawn or garden to produce a healthier surface that makes it more difficult for weeds to grow. As the season progresses, continue to maintain your lawn by mowing and watering.

• Aerate the soil at the onset of the season. Aerating your lawn at the dawn of the mowing season helps break up soil that grew compacted over the winter. Once aerated, the soil can disperse nutrients, oxygen and water more effectively, allowing healthier roots to grow and reducing the risk of weed growth as a result.

• Fertilize the l a w n .

Fertilizer helps grass grow in thick and dense, which leaves little to no room for the growth of weeds.

While fertilizer does not necessarily guarantee that weeds won’t grow, it does go a long way toward helping a lawn grow in healthy, and a healthy lawn is often a weed’s worst enemy. Some fertilizers on the market are a combination of fertilizer and weed preventer, and such products might be ideal for homeowners who are especially concerned about weed growth. The lifespan of weed preventers varies, so keep in mind that you might need to reapply a weed preventer in a few months to keep getting the same results. Fertilizing is typically done twice a year, once in the spring and again in the fall.

• Lay down landscape fabric. Landscape fabric is another weed prevention alternative that can prevent weed growth for several years. Before laying down landscape fabric, which is perhaps most commonly used in flower beds, remove all weeds and other vegetation you do not wish to grow. You will likely need to cut the fabric to the area you want it to cover and cut an opening for plants and flowers. The fabric is then typically covered with mulch, which keeps the fabric in place.

many cases, your efforts can bear fruit through the entire season.

Removing Unsightly Weeds

When removing weeds, it’s best to remove the weeds with their roots. Smaller weeds with shallow roots can typically be removed with a gentle pull and the roots will come right out with the weed.

Larger weeds with deeper roots can be a little tougher to remove, and they might damage surrounding plants if you pull too hard. In such instances, dig around the stem with a small hoe to loosen the soil and then firmly pull the weed out of the ground. If that does not work, dig a little deeper and try again.

When there are simply too many weeds to pull out of the ground, a garden hoe is effective for shallow-rooted weeds. Where deep-rooted weeds are present, a garden hoe is less effective because it does not usually reach the roots. A winged weeder, though more time-consuming than a hoe, goes deeper into the soil to pull the roots.

Chemical weed-killers are another option, though they are not very eco-friendly and chemical products must be sprayed on the entire weed to kill it completely.

Landscape fabric is effective because it blocks the sun from reaching any area that it’s covering while still allowing air, water and nutrients to penetrate and reach the soil. Weeds need sun to grow, so landscape fabric can be highly effec- • One Of A Kind Pieces Created

by Concrete Artisan tive at preventing • Original Concrete Leaf Sculptures weed growth.

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Weeds are an unsightly nuisance that homeowners would prefer to do without. Preventing weed growth is relatively easy, and, in

• Concrete Planters, Bird Baths, Benches, Statuary • Metal Fence & Wall Art • Light Weight Metal Planters • Gifts for Every Occasion

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Hours: Tues-Fri. 9am-5pm • Sat:10am-3pm • www.vernongardenart.com

778.475.5752 • 907 Kalamalka Lake Rd., Vernon

The CLEAR CHOICE for Custom Glass

mirrors • shower doors • windows • doors

You just can't beat our Service, Price & Quality Craftsmanship

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2809 - 45 Ave, Vernon • 250.542.9309 • www.hlglass.ca The North Okanagan’s First Choice for GLASS!

U18 Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star

Homeowners who spend time tending to their landscape are increasingly looking eco-friendly ways to maintain their lawns and gardens. Homeowners who once relied on potentially harmful pesticides to craft a lush lawn now prefer ways that don’t leave such a significant carbon footprint.

Preventing soil erosion is one way to incorporate conservation into lawn and garden care. Conservation is one of many environmental practices aimed at preserving the planet’s natural resources, which include soil. Preventing soil erosion is easy and can be accomplished in a number of ways.

• Don’t overwater. Some may assume that keeping soil as damp as possible keeps it healthy. However,

How to prevent soil erosion

overwatering the soil can cause runoff that washes the soil away. In addition,

overwatering the soil can degrade it and contribute to erosion. Instead of overwatering, keep the soil moist but don’t overdo it. If you’re having trouble keeping soil moist, consider laying down some mulch, which helps retain moisture and deliver nutrients to the soil that keep it healthy.

• Plant trees and shrubs. Trees and shrubs are friends to soil, providing shelter while their roots keep the soil in place and prevent it from easily blowing away on a windy day. It also helps soil from washing away when warm weather arrives and the landscape must be watered on a daily basis.

• Create runoff barriers. Runoff barriers are edges that can be made of brick, stone or other materials that help reduce runoff. Many homeowners install runoff barriers along sidewalks and driveways to ensure the soil does not spill out onto the pavement, but these also help the soil as much as they help to keep walkways and other areas free of soil and looking tidy.

RAISING MASON BEES - NATURALLY FUN!

Isn’t it wonderful that Spring is here? I love watching the trees bud and the tulips getting ready to bloom. Seeing everything springing back to life in nature gives me a boost after a long winter.

This Spring consider raising your own mason bees to do the pollination in

your own yard. Raising mason bees is easy! Mason bees are gentle and rarely sting. They can even be held in your hand. They are easy to attract and easy to raise. The females use existing holes to nest in. You’ll find them natively throughout North America.

Just A Short Drive Away!

Annuals • Perennials • Fruit Plants Fruit Trees • Shade Trees • Evergreens Flowering Shrubs • Vegetables

For Open ason! e The S

A Growing Nursery in the Okanagan 19 Years in Business

Mon - Sat: 8am - 5pm Open Sundays (thru June only) 10am - 4pm

250-546-8181

1871 Pleasant Valley Rd., ARMSTRONG - Only 10 minutes from Vernon! www.bluemountainnursery.ca

Pollination of fruit trees and bushes in the Spring is their job!

You just need a bee house - any small house that keeps reeds/straws dry.

You need paper straws or reeds with holes about 5/16” or 7-8 mm wide and about 6” long. Do NOT use plastic drinking straws as this kills the cocoons.

The shelter should be hung on a south or east wall, under an overhang, and out of direct wind or rain. Place it just above head height. These bees have no preference to a pollen source.

Fruit trees, bushes, and spring flowers are perfect.

The bees like to stay with 300’ (100m) of the nesting shelter making it easy to have your own bees year after year.

There should be some source of mud near the shelter. They use clayey mud to separate their chambers with the straw/reeds. Any smaller wetter area with some clay works good.

Mason bees overwinter as cocoons.

They come out of hibernation when the temperature stays around 13 degrees celsius. Once the females emerge, they mate with the males. The males die within 2 weeks. Then the females

• Consider leaving some grass around the garden. Tillage is the process of preparing land to grow crops.

While many homeowners don’t view their weekend gardening as growing crops, similar principles apply whether you’re growing crops on a farm or just a few vegetables in the backyard. One such principle is conservation tillage, which means leaving a portion of vegetation in the ground instead of stripping everything away before planting.

For home gardeners, consider leaving a small amount of grass around the garden to keep the soil within the garden’s boundaries. It’s a principle similar to installing runoff barriers, and it can be just as effective at preventing soil erosion.

Submitted by Debbie Morris, Blue Mountain Nursery

continue on with their work. Each female is a queen bee. She finds her own hold and gathers pollen. 15 - 25 trips to flowers creates a pea-size mass of pollen. She then backs in to lay an egg in the pollen. 10 - 15 trips of mud gathering seals that chamber.

By June, the eggs have hatched into larva that now eats the pollen mass, spins a cocoon and metamorphous into adult mason bees by September.

They then hibernate until spring.

Blue Mountain Nursery is selling all the supplies and bees you need to set up your own pollination grounds in your own yard. Let’s help get the Okanagan back to having enough bees to get everything pollinated including your gardens. Have fun helping keep nature healthy!

Debbie Morris, along with her husband Don, have owned Blue Mountain Nursery in Armstrong for the past 19 years. Find them on Facebook or at www.bluemountainnursery.ca

USING

Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star U19

PAINT COLORS

According to HGTV, color should flow throughout a house.

Every room need not be painted the same color.

However, colors should be complementary enough that they flow into one another. Don’t paint one room in child’s basic primary colors, while painting other rooms in jewel tones and pastels. Stick with one theme and carry it through the house.

Once you have decided to use a bold color, first find your color inspiration.

Color combinations that appear in nature

are more readily accepted by people, so look for an item in nature, such as a seashell or a flowering plant that you can base your color choices on. Others pull inspiration from a particular design item.

For instance, maybe an area rug strikes your fancy. Use colors that appear in the rug in the room.

Keep in mind that using bold color doesn’t mean you have to paint every wall from ceiling to floor in that color.

Rather, if you’re just starting out with bold colors, select one wall to serve as an accent wall. Use that wall as your bold canvas and paint it with your chosen hue.

Some people like to experiment with a more flashy color in a smaller space. If you’re nervous about beginning in the living room or kitchen, how about trying out bold color in a smaller space, such as a powder room? A more intimate space might seem less overwhelming when painted in a bold color. Go for a deep purple or another jeweled tone. However, try to avoid greens in the bathroom, as they may reflect off of the mirror and cast a hue onto your face that makes you look unwell. Pinks and peaches will

PHOTO: POLKA DOT IMAGES / THINKSTOCK

Paint is one of the least expensive and most versatile means to changing the look of a room. According to the experts from “This Old House,” 60 percent of the colors of a home that visitors perceive come from the paint on the walls. Choosing a color scheme can be challenging, which is why so many people stick with neutrals like beige and white. For those who are ready to add a spark of color, there are a few guidelines to consider.

Color theory is a science and there are rules of using color that are taught as early as a child’s first foray into art class. We know there are primary, secondary and complementary colors on the color wheel.

Even novice home decorators can do well with color if they use the color wheel as their guideline.

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shed a rosy glow.

If you will be incorporating complementary colors into the room, use the paint color swatch as your guide. Most paint manufacturers use three or four different shades on one sample card. When selecting a complementary shade, be sure to pick from the same tone on the card.

That means if you’re choosing the darkest of color #1 from a card, you’ll want to choose the darkest from color #2.

Another idea is to leave walls neutral and use bold color on design accents.

For example, designers at marthastewart.com recommend painting the inside of niches, shelves or cabinets with glass doors in bright tones and the outside white to create an eye-catching space without going overboard. Put a bold color on moulding or use an appliance or a fixture in a bright color as your splash of boldness.

Remember to have balance. If you will be painting an entire room in a bold color, think about having the other decor items in neutral colors. Sofas and rugs should be neutral colors, or consider toning down a vibrant color with the use of white molding or baseboards.

U20 Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star

Home maintenance tips

(NC) - Warm weather and an inevitable build-up of rain and melting snow make spring a particularly important time to perform a series of home maintenance checks.

Maintenance is an essential part of being a home owner, ensuring the internal environment of your house stays healthy. It’s also a necessary part of maintaining your new home warranty if you live in a house or condominium that is less than seven years old.

Here are a few tips to make sure

your home stays in good shape and stays covered by warranty: • Regularly clear eavestroughs and gutters of debris. Leaves and sticks that accumulate through fall and winter can cause blockages.

• Be sure to extend downspouts so that water is directed away from your home. Melting snow and rain can accumulate quickly and water that flows around the foundation could eventually find its way into the basement.

• Fix the caulking and weather

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stripping around windows and doors and on the roof if it becomes cracked or separated.

• Remove the winter cover from your air conditioner and following the manufacturer’s instructions, inspect, vacuum, brush outdoor coils and wash or clean the filter.

Service as needed.

• Investigate and identify any musty smells and odours. They are often an indicator that there is a hidden moisture problem.

• Clean or replace your furnace filter.

• Check air ducts, remove covers and vacuum dust from vents.

• Have your roof inspected reg-

Can pools and lawns cohabitate peacefully?

As the “staycation” has grown in popularity, more effort has been put forth in making the backyard a place where all members of the household can enjoy themselves. That means merging interests into one space. Some homeowners wonder if lawns and pools can be successful alongside each other.

Celebrating 37 Years

Many question if chlorinated pool water poses any ill effects on the grass in the backyard. In addition to splash-out of water during fun times in the pool, water also will be tracked across the lawn from children and adults exiting the pool or will flood the grass when it is necessary to clean and “backwash” the filter. Will you be left with a dried-out patch of chlorine-burnt lawn? Probably not.

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ticularly if you are stringent about maintaining the proper pH levels and chlorine levels. Also, soil can withstand chlorine at high acid levels and is pretty resilient about self-correcting. Furthermore, grass blades are selective about which nutrients they absorb, so excess chlorine likely will not penetrate the grass blades.

Chlorine also dissipates in the sun. The levels may be elevated upon just hitting the grass, but over a short while the chlorine will essentially be used up.

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ularly to ensure shingles, flashing and chimney caps are in place and sealed properly.

• If you have a sump pump, check the float and discharge line and test the overall operation.

Healthy chlorine levels in a pool are kept so that the pool water is generally on par with the chlorine levels contained in regular tap water. You wouldn’t hesitate turning on the hose to water your lawn, so you shouldn’t be overly concerned about pool water splashing out of the pool, par-

Some people have actually said that watering your lawn with pool water can be an eco-friendly way of curbing water usage. It is unadvisable to water vegetable gardens with pool water because of any trace levels of other chemicals that may be found in the pool water.

Homeowners still concerned about exposing their lawns to pool water can create a buffer zone around the pool. Inground pools are traditionally bordered by concrete or patio blocks. Place stone or mulch around the perimeter of an aboveground pool to catch any splashes and to create a barrier between the pool and the lawn. Also, direct backwashed water through a long tube and have it flow it to an area away from the lawn.

Pool owners who want to have vibrant grass likely don’t need to worry about chlorine damaging their lawns. In fact, the lawns may flourish with the extra watering.

Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star U21

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U22 Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star

How to repair unsightly bald spots in your lawn Lawn care aficionados know how a single bald spot can make an otherwise luscious lawn look worn down and poorly maintained. A bald spot can stick out like a sore thumb, while several bald spots can compromise a home’s curb appeal.

Treating bald spots typically depends on what is causing the bald spot. Bugs, dryness, pet waste and damage from mowers are some of the more common causes of bald spots. The follow-

ing is a breakdown of these different causes and how best to address each situation so you can restore your lawn to its natural beauty.

Dryness

A lawn can go dry because of drought in the summertime or during the winter months when there is not much rain or snowfall. Homeowners cannot change the weather, but they can help their lawn avoid becoming the burned or yellowed turf that often results after

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extended periods of dryness. Fertilizing the lawn during the spring and summer is a good first step. This helps the lawn grow in healthy and thick. Once you have fertilized, don’t cut the grass too short. When grass is cut too short, the soil struggles to retain moisture, which can eventually lead to bald spots if weather conditions are dry. During especially dry periods in the summer, watering might be necessary. You won’t have to water frequently, but be sure to water deeply so the water can reach the roots of the grass.

Pet Waste

Waste from pets can cause bald spots on a yard. This might surprise some homeowners, but pet waste contains a high level of concentrated nitrogen that, when applied to a lawn, can burn the grass and cause bald spots. Urine is most likely to cause bald spots, but fecal matter can as well.

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When addressing the problem of pet waste on your lawn, make sure no one else’s pets are the cause of the problem. Neighbors out walking their dogs should be discouraged from allowing their dogs to use your lawn as a restroom. If this does not work, then erect a fence or some type of structure that makes it difficult for other people’s pets to access your lawn.

When it’s your own pet causing the damage, address the spots where your pet relieves itself as quickly as possible. Watering the area within eight

hours can significantly reduce the risk of lawn damage by diluting the nitrogen levels. Another way to address the issue is to encourage the animal to use various spots in the yard, rather than continually using the same spot. Flush each area with water immediately after the pet is finished. If the damage is already considerable, remove the damaged grass and reseed the spot.

Mower Damage

Sometimes Mother Nature and man’s best friend are not the culprit with regard to bald spots on your lawn. Human error can cause bald spots, too.

Dull mower blades or grass that is cut too low can cause bald spots. Fortunately, this is easily remedied.

To avoid bald spots, make sure mower blades are sharpened at the beginning of each mowing season, as dull blades damage the grass, which is then forced to use valuable nutrients to treat torn grass, weakening the lawn over time. When mowing, make sure you’re not cutting too low so the soil can retain as much moisture as possible. This will necessitate more frequent mowing, but this, too, can prevent bald spots, as it ensures those parts of the grass that contain chlorophyll will not be removed.

Bald spots can turn a pristine lawn into an eyesore. But treating bald spots can be easy and, when done effectively, the lawn can be restored quickly.

Co$t-effective

Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star U23

fencing options

Fencing serves many purposes. Some homeowners erect a fence for privacy, while others do so to contain pets and children. Because fencing can be expensive, some homeowners look for ways to cut costs, which can be relatively easy, especially for those homeowners willing to consider various materials when erecting their fence.

When choosing a fencing material, consider that even a less expensive material may prove more expensive in the long run if it needs significant maintenance or has to be replaced in just a few years. Therefore, the most cost-effective fencing material may not necessarily be the least expensive one at the store. Here are some materials homeowners can consider.

* Picket fencing: A wooden picket fence is another inexpensive fencing material. The pickets can be purchased in various heights, and this fence may be used as garden border fencing or to mark a property line between homes.

Spacing the pickets widely apart may cut down on the number that need to be purchased, further keeping the cost down. * Bamboo: Bamboo is a rapidly growing grass that produces a hard woodlike material that is used in many building applications. Bamboo wood can be used to build a fence, but the natural plant also can be planted to form a living fence for privacy. * Stockade fencing: A stockade fence is one of the more basic wood

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* Found material: Repurposed wood or metal can be crafted into a rustic, one-of-a-kind fence. Materials can be found that are no cost, requiring only the cost of labor. Should you build it yourself, this can be next to nothing.

Sometimes existing fences on another property can be disassembled and rebuilt on your own property for little to no cost as well. * Chainlink/chainwire: Chainlink fencing is one of the most economical types of boundary fencing. The fencing comes in a variety of diamond sizes and is fixed to galvanized pipes spaced across the perimeter of the property. Although it is some of the least expensive fencing, it does not offer much privacy on its own. But if you are looking at fencing simply as a barrier, chainlink could be the way to go.

fencing options. Wooden slats are placed alongside one another to form an effective and affordable privacy fence. Stockade fencing can be stained or painted to preserve it. Many home improvement retailers sell panels of stockade fencing so that you can make fence installation a do-it-yourself project. * Vinyl fencing: Although vinyl fencing is one of the more expensive fencing materials at the outset (it costs about twice the price of a wood fence), it does pay for itself rather quickly thanks to minimal maintenance. Unlike some other materials, vinyl will not rot or discolor. You also won’t have to purchase stain, paint and expensive cleaners for a vinyl fence. That means once you make the investment, you will have years upon years of maintenance-free enjoyment.

You can count on us for reliable service, reasonable rates and outstanding results.

VERNON 250-549-2131 4510-27th Street, Vernon

U24 Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star

Home Improvement Trend That Won’t BREAK THE BANK

(MS) -- Faux painting techniques are an economical and innovative way to transform any surface and can complement any decorating style. Dull concrete floors, both indoors and out, can be brought dramatically to life with a latex paint.

Planning and Preparation Before choosing a design, look carefully at your surface and space. Some designs are useful for disguising flaws in a floor. For other designs you may need to patch and smooth flawed surfaces first.

You will also need to think about the traffic in the area you are painting. Is it worth doing an elaborate, time-consuming pattern in a high traffic area?

Large, bold patterns may be out of scale for a small room. Equally, small, detailed patterns may get lost in large spaces.

Faux terra-cotta tiles are a versatile option for porches, patios and dining areas. The earthy appearance creates a warm, earthy feel and goes well with the rustic Tuscan look and matches many decors.

Inspirations for Faux Painted Floors Patterned and Textured Finishes For a finish that isn’t too busy, you can Brick and Stone

Brick and stone finishes can add texture and/or color and can be effective indoors and outdoors.

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use paint to create subtle visual texture. With pattern, your choice is endless. Covering an entire surface is one option. Alternatively, you could paint a faux rug, perhaps with patterns inspired by oriental carpets.

The most important thing to remember is to follow the proper preparation and patching procedures from the product label. If you are using a pressure washer to clean the surface, do not use on a pressure setting above 1750 psi to avoid damaging the concrete. Remember concrete acts like a sponge. Pressure washing and cleaning in general may trap residual moisture in the concrete. To check for trapped moisture, tape a 12” x 12” piece of 3 mil plastic or aluminum foil tightly on all four edges

to the surface. Remove it after 24 hours. If the floor side of the plastic or foil is damp, allow additional drying and then repeat the test. It is very important not to have trapped moisture in the concrete; it is the number one reason why epoxy and latex concrete floor paints fail.

Protecting the Pattern A clear protective coat is the perfect finish to protect the design from scraping of patio furniture, grease, weathering and washings. Remember to use a product that is made to be a clear protective coat, not a penetrating sealer. A penetrating sealer is designed to enter the pores of the surface and settle into the masonry. It will not penetrate the floor paint. The clear sealer is a protective measure that should be repeated every two to four years depending on the use and exposure of the surface.

Bold or subtle, bright or neutral, faux painting techniques can give your floor an expensive-looking makeover that won’t break the bank.

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Cultivate an HERB Planting an herb garden is a creative way to enjoy the sights, smells and tastes of a wide variety of plants.

What’s more, fresh herbs are often easy to cultivate.

Fortunately, herbs can grow well in containers indoors, provided the soil is amenable and there is plenty of sunlight.

Herbs will grow best in well-prepared soil. Make sure that it is rich in organic matter and drains well.

GARDEN

Until the weather warms up, you may want to begin herb cultivation indoors and then transfer plants outside during the summer. Place most herb planters in a south-facing window of a home to ensure they get ample sunlight and to allow the soil to dry adequately between waterings.

With many herbs, leaf production will diminish on any stems that flower. It is essential to pinch off flowers that form to encourage the herb plant to continue producing leaves.

Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star U25

Gardening Tips

* Get started before you plant. Preparing the soil a few weeks before you start planting can help the plants thrive down the road. Add some organic material, such as compost or fertilizer, to the soil roughly three weeks before planting.

This helps the soil retain water and nutrients, which will help your garden thrive.

FOR BEGINNERS Gardening is a rewarding hobby that many enthusiasts credit with helping them to peacefully escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Though gardening can be both relaxing and rewarding, it’s not as easy as it may seem, and the more time and effort a person devotes to his or her garden the more likely it is to be successful.

Gardening can be a little daunting for

beginners who have little or no experience planting flowers or vegetables. But beginners who adhere to the following tips aimed at helping novice gardeners

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You’ve seen our sign up on Highway 97, right next door to the new Holiday Inn Express. We’ve been in our new showroom for almost 3 years now, and it’s constantly changing to accommodate new suppliers and exciting new product! This summer we created a mini-showroom for Luxury Vinyl tile and planks, showcasing an extensive array of product in our racks and even on the floor!

Over Christmas we re-vamped our showroom and created a brand-new space with hardwood and Area Rugs. We also have a full selection of Hunter Douglas window coverings for you to try out and ask questions.

We were the first Shaw Design Center in the Okanagan, with one of the newest and largest full service flooring showrooms. We

are thrilled to showcase the exclusive line of HGTV Flooring by Shaw. Do you watch TV shows like D.I.Y. House Crashers, Sarah’s House; Leave it to Bryan, Holmes on Homes and others on the HGTV channel? Well the products that inspire HGTV’s designers are now available to you!

From designer inspired colors and patterns in area rugs and beautiful broadloom carpets, to unique and specialty hardwoods and laminates, HGTV products are exquisite and now at your fingertips.

Crystal Sturgeon from Crystal Klear Design is our resident Interior Designer. She specializes in custom cabinetry, window coverings, and of course Award Winning design services. She and her husband, Dave, create custom design packages to suit any budget. As part of the Nufloors Team, we are excited about what they have to offer, and would love the opportunity to put our services and expertise to work for you.

Together with Crystal we offer package pricing on everything needed to renovate your existing castle, or help you create your new dream home. Come see us today and together we will bring style to your home.

start their gardens off on the right foot. * Determine what you should plant.

Where you live will go a long way toward determining what you should plant. While you can plant anything you can get your hands on, Agri-Food Canada have determined specific plant hardiness zones that indicate which plants are most likely to thrive in given locations. Maps of these zones can be found at www.agr. gc.ca. By adhering to the maps, gardeners can significantly increase their chances of growing successful gardens.

When in doubt about what to plant, consult a local gardening center or seek advice from a professional landscaper. * Think location when beginning your garden. Beginners with large yards have the luxury of choosing the right location on their properties to start planting.

When choosing a spot, consider how much sunlight a location gets on a daily basis and the spot’s proximity to a water supply. If planting flowers, try to avoid planting in areas with heavy foot traffic so the flowers are less likely to be stomped. If you’re planting flowers to accent walkways, then consider erecting a barrier around the flower bed to safeguard the flowers from foot traffic.

* Time your planting. When you plant is sometimes as important as what you plant. Some climates allow for yearround planting, but many do not. When buying seeds, the packaging might suggest what time of year to plant the seeds. Adhere to these suggestions or your garden might not grow much at all.

In addition, keep in mind that many seedlings need significant light throughout the day in order to grow, so choose a time of year with ample daylight. * Don’t forget to mulch. Mulch can be as aesthetically appealing as it is effective. Mulch retains soil, helping roots to grow stronger, while deterring bugs and preventing weed growth. And many gardeners find mulch adds visual appeal their garden, and does so in a very inexpensive way. * Clean your tools. Beginners rarely recognize the importance of cleaning gardening tools before putting them away. At the end of each gardening session, clean your tools thoroughly, as soil left on your garden tools can play host to potentially harmful microbes that might kill your plants.

Gardening can be a labor-intensive yet gratifying hobby. By sticking to a few simple rules, beginners can develop a thriving garden to reward all of that hard work.

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U26 Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star

Make the kitchen your favourite room in the house Kitchen renovations can be more affordable then you might think. Often cabinet re-facing a new countertop or backsplash is all that is needed to give your space that fresh feeling again. It is always good to consult with a professional before you start your renovation, often consultations are free and the information is valuable as they can give you tricks to help spread your hard earned dollar and can review the process in which things take place.

We at CK DESIGN understand that whether you’ve made the decision to renovate, or are building your new dream home, that purchasing a kitchen is ONE of the largest and most IMPORTANT decisions that a couple or individual will make.

Our professional designers have a common objective in providing our clients with inspired designs utilizing quality Canadian Manufactured products.

Sit down with a certified interior designer to help create a one of a kind space that reflects your style, your

needs, and your budget. Here are a few tips to transform your old kitchen into your dream kitchen: #1 - UP DATE THE COLOUR Kitchens are not usually very colorful. Why not feature colors, or perhaps even paint the cabinets to make them look more attractive. Bright colors such as orange, red, shades of lime and lemon may be used to make the area livelier.

Even appliances can come in a variety of colors that add a splash of personality to your kitchen.

The best part is that you can do it yourself! #2 - STREAMLINE YOUR KITCHEN Design trends reflect our more collaborative and casual method of cooking, preparing, eating, entertaining and living. Integrated appliances such as microwaves, ovens, dishwashers and fridges must match the cabinetry to give the kitchen a much cleaner and organized look. It would add a touch of flair if the colors on your walls complement the applianc-

es. This is a major kitchen trend for 2013, and most people are following it to make their kitchens look simpler and neater. #3 - MIX PAINTED-WOOD AND STAINED-WOOD CABINETRY Gone are the days when kitchen and bathroom cabinetry was either just stained wood or painted wood.

Both painted and stained wood can be used in the kitchen to make it look like a modern piece of work.

Grey-wash stain can be used on

BEFORE

Submitted by CK Design

walnut-colored cabinetry. Mix it with white shelves and your kitchen will soon be your favorite area at home.

High-gloss paints may also be applied on gables or open shelving.

If these paints are used too much, however, they can be a tad overwhelming, so the best way to make your kitchen look cool is by using high-gloss paints on a frame of about two inches around the cabinetry, while the rest of the cabinetry is stained.

Mosaic backsplashes, countertops made of thick stone, appropriate lighting atop the island, and stainless-steel appliances will blend well and ensure your AFTER kitchen looks exciting.

Design

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Kitchens are finally taking center stage again and people are starting to really recognize the importance of them. Quality is overruling quantity, manufacturer’s are offering more features at better prices and selection has never been greater.

the past. Wood drawers, soft close drawers and doors, organization and endless options in accessories. People are going back to the Classic Whites, Off Whites and not afraid to add a pop of colour on the island or in the bathrooms. Reds, Teal Blues, Greens … no colour is off limits.

High Gloss, Exotics and Custom Designed Doors and colours are becoming more of the norm and cookie cutter kitchens are a thing of

Come in to our show room or give us a call and let us help you.

Crystal

Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star U27

HGTV HOME Flooring by Shaw, fashionable floors that stand up to life.

We are the experts in HGTV HOME Flooring by Shaw, and finding your style has never been easier … come see us today.

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U28 Sunday, April 28, 2013 - The Morning Star

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