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Spring Edition
2015
Z2 Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star
Superior Quality Luxurious Lines
Nothing gives you a greater return on your home investment than the value and sheer enjoyment of a successful kitchen or bathroom remodel. Our dedicated team of professionals have decades of shared experience creating kitchens and baths that anticipate every need and exceed all expectations.
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once again has been
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by Okanagan Life Magazine 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002
Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star Z3
Locate your garden in an area that gets adequate sun. Many vegetables need between six and eight hours of sunlight per day. Without enough light, they will not bear as much and could be susceptible to insect infestation. Vegetables and fruit also need plenty of water because they’re not very drought-tolerant, so keep gardens close to a water source. Another good tip is to locate the garden near the house or barbecue grill. This way you can easily harvest fresh produce and use it when cooking.
Soil preparation is also key. Till the soil and remove debris like rocks, sticks and hard clumps of dirt. Work with organic material, such as manure or compost. Apply mulch after planting to help maintain moisture levels in the soil. Plant the tallest crops at the rear of your garden bed. Work forward with shorter crops. Try to leave a foot or more between planting rows. It’s easy to get a garden started and enjoy fresh food for many months to come.
Transforming
...
HOUSES INTO
Tips for Beginners
P
lanting a vegetable garden can be a worthwhile endeavor for anyone who has an available patch of land. Gardens need not take up much space, and even apartment dwellers without yards can plant small gardens in containers they place on terraces or window boxes. Although establishing a garden is easy enough, beginners may make a few mistakes along the way. Those who already have paved the garden way before can offer novice gardeners some worthwhile tips. One of the first decisions novice gardeners must make is which
crops to grow. This will help determine how much land you will need and which supplies or soil amendments will be necessary. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, a common error for beginners is planting too much and more than anyone could ever consume, so it’s best to start small and be proud of that small garden. Plants such as peppers, squash and tomatoes produce throughout the season, so you may not need many plants to provide for your needs. Less prolific plants may require a greater investment to produce a similar yield.
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Z4 Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star
Dos & Don’ts of KITCHEN REMODELS
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Kitchen renovations have long been a safe way to improve the functionality and value of a home. But not every kitchen project is a guaranteed winner. Take a look at these kitchen remodeling dos and don'ts to guide your next undertaking.
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kitchen will look with the rest of the home. Keep architectural integrity in mind when designing the space. A farmhouse sink and country cabinets can look out of place in an ultra-modern home.
✗ DON'T
overlook the importance of a seasoned designer or architect. These pros will know the tricks to maximizing space and achieving the ideal layout of appliances and may be able to recommend local contractors and vendors.
thing is not working (such as having to walk across the entire kitchen to access the stove) or is unsafe. Otherwise, minor upgrades may do the trick.
✗ DON’T over-improve the
space. A fully equipped commercial kitchen may be handy for a professional chef, but the average person may not need an industrial hood and indoor pizza oven. When you make excessive improvements, you may not be able to recoup as much of the money spent because your home will not be on par with the values of homes in the neighborhood.
✓DO look beyond surface details to the structural integrity of the design. The kitchen should be functional, long-lasting and beautiful.
✗ DON’T
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design just for today, but look to the future as well. Unless you are willing to spend $50,000 every five years, look for styles and materials that will last for the long haul. Older homeowners may want to make adjustments now that address potential mobility issues down the road.
✓DO
work with what you have. A complete demolition and renovation is not always necessary to achieve the desired results. Only invest in major changes if some-
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make sure you can afford the project. Plan for some unexpected purchases and plan out the renovation according to your budget. Skimping on materials or design because of lack of money may leave you feeling dissatisfied afterward.
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Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star Z5
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DRIVEWAY A driveway is more than just a place to park your car. The right driveway material can add considerable curb appeal to your home, increasing its resale value along the way. Homeowners have many options at their disposal when choosing a driveway material, and the right material for one home may not be the best fit for another. The following is a rundown of popular driveway surfaces and what homeowners can expect of each of them.
•• BRICK
Many homeowners believe brick driveways provide the most aesthetic appeal, and it's hard to argue with the beauty of brick driveways and walkways. Brick driveways come in various colors and hues, and many homeowners opt to have the color of their brick driveways match their landscaping, which further adds to curb appeal. But that curb appeal is only appealing if the driveway is designed and installed correctly, and homeowners can expect to pay a premium for that, as brick driveway installation is very labor intensive.
•• GRAVEL
Gravel driveways may not be as commonplace as they once were, but this cost effective driveway material is still an option. Homeowners who live in regions with mild winters without snow might benefit most from gravel driveways, which can be difficult to negotiate when shoveling snow. Gravel tends to be the least expensive driveway material to install, but
professionals may recommend that a new top layer of gravel be laid once or twice a year to replace material lost to wind and everyday usage.
•• ASPHALT
Asphalt remains a popular driveway material, thanks in large part to its practicality and ease of installation. Unlike other driveway surface materials, asphalt is available in just one color, black, and that lack of versatility has led many homeowners to consider other options. But asphalt remains an affordable driveway surface material that's relatively easy to repair. Cracks and holes in asphalt are somewhat common, but resealing such blemishes once every three to five years is typically enough to maintain the appearance of an asphalt driveway.
•• CONCRETE
Concrete driveways are popular thanks in large part to their affordability and aesthetic appeal. Concrete can be susceptible to extremely cold weather, but many homeowners prefer concrete because of its versatility. Concrete can be stamped or dyed to provide a unique look, which can increase curb appeal. Concrete can be expensive to maintain, particularly when the material cracks. In addition, gas and oil spills are more noticeable on a concrete surface than other driveway surface materials. When replacing an existing driveway, homeowners have an array of new surface materials to choose from, and each material has its pros and cons.
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Z6 Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star
Explore the alternatives to
Granite Countertops
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VERNON 250-549-2131 4510-27th Street, Vernon
ranite has long been a popular countertop material for homeowners looking to combine functionality with aesthetic appeal in their kitchens. But granite is no small investment, and homeowners looking to refurbish their kitchens should know there are a multitude of countertop materials available to those working on a budget or those who simply want to give their kitchens a different look. ❚❘ Solid wood: Wood countertops create a warm, homey interior. Butcher block counters are less expensive than granite and do not necessarily need to be ordered from a specialty retailer. But wood can stain and dent and can even burn when hot kitchenware is placed atop it. Regular application of oil can help homeowners maintain the appearance of their wood counters for years to come. ❚❘ Marble: Marble tends to be less expensive than granite without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. However, marble is softer and more porous than granite, so it can stain and be etched. Diligence in wiping away spills, routine sealing and a gentle touch is necessary for those who choose marble countertops. ❚❘ Soapstone: This is a natural stone composed mainly of mineral
talc that gives the stone its smooth feel. Soapstone ranges from black to gray but can sometimes have a green shade to it. Other materials in the stone can produce veining. Although softer than granite, soapstone is still high-density and will hold up well. It's impervious to stains and bacteria, and exposure to chemicals will not damage it. ❚❘ Quartz: Quartz is a manufactured product made of stone aggregate and polymers compressed under high pressure. It has the look of natural stone but requires less work to maintain. Quartz has consistent colors and patterns and is a nonporous material, so it will not need routine sealing and resealing. ❚❘ Glass: Glass countertops are back-painted, so homeowners can order just about any color they want. Glass will be tempered, so it is safe and heat-resistant. Glass can scratch, though, so it is not as impervious as other materials. ❚❘ Concrete: Concrete is another material that can be colored to match homeowners' whims. Concrete is relatively inexpensive compared to other countertop materials, but it can crack or chip. While granite is a popular countertop material, homeowners who want something new have many additional options at their disposal.
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Bountiful, healthy trees can be beautiful to behold and important contributors to a thriving environment. A tree can absorb as much as 40 pounds of carbon dioxide per year and can sequester one ton of carbon dioxide by the time the tree reaches age 40. Trees placed properly around a home can also reduce air conditioning and heating demands considerably. Many homeowners are content to leave healthy trees alone. However, trees eventually must be pruned or removed if they become safety risks or pose other threats. Trees with roots that are damaging home foundations or those with limbs overhanging property limits or power lines can be troublesome. Although homeowners can handle relatively minor tree maintenance, for a variety of reasons, many tree projects are best left to the professionals. Avoid injury >>> Professional tree contractors recognize and understand the hazards associated with tree and limb removal. Many operate in accordance with national or local guidelines to maintain proper clearance of power lines and structures.
Trimming trees close to electrical lines puts a person at risk of being electrocuted. Professionals know how to protect themselves and prevent power outages, which can result when limbs come into contact with power lines. Professional tree services will use machinery appropriate for the task. Cherrypickers and cranes may lift workers to the correct height to work on trees, while do-it-yourselfers who rely on climbing trees or using ladders are at risk of injury. Prevent damage to the tree >>> Many tree services understand the proper way to prune trees to minimize stress and damage to the tree itself. Novice pruners may inadvertently do more harm than good, resulting in proliferation of tree disease or shock. Improper pruning technique also can lead to an unsightly tree. Liability >>> A professional tree service will possess the correct liability and worker’s compensation insurance. This protects homeowners against litigation should someone be injured while tree work is being done. Homeowners who damage neighboring properties when cutting down a tree may find that they are not covered by their homeowner’s insurance policies. This can be a costly mistake that’s easily avoided by simply hiring a fully insured tree removal service. The right tools >>> The right tools can mean the difference between a job done correctly and one that results in disaster. Professional arborists and tree services have ac-
Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star Z7
quired the training, tools and techniques to perform the job safely. This includes using the right tools to tackle the job. Ropes, pulleys, cranes, stump grinders, and other heavy machinery are just a few of the tools tree services have at their disposal that the average homeowner does not. Trimming or removing trees can be an unpredictable and potentially dangerous endeavor. Such work is best left to professionals.
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Z8 Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star
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Checklist (NC) Spring is an ideal time to de-clutter and infuse renewed energy into our living space. A complete spring clean overhaul can take days of course, so plan accordingly and set a realistic schedule. The following tips will soon have your home dust-free:
4 As a rule, work from the top down, so areas don't get dirty again. However, when it comes to washing walls, it is easier to start from the bottom using a sponge mop. This way, you can more easily clean up any drips.
1 Before you begin cleaning,
Duane Vankeimpema
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categorize the list of jobs required (e.g. cleaning baseboards, organizing cupboards, washing curtains). Although it seems easier to tackle all the vacuuming at once, completing one room at a time will give you the satisfaction to continue.
2 Begin with dusting and vacuum-
ing surfaces—from ceiling to baseboards—as well as chandeliers, light bulbs and light fixtures. Spring cleaning does require a little old fashioned elbow grease. Scrub floors with a scrubbing brush and cleaning solution, clean the grout on tiled floors. If you don't already own one, rent a steam cleaner for carpets.
3 Take down window treatments
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and wash or dry clean. Wipe wooden blinds with a gentle wood cleaner, wash aluminum blinds outdoors where they can dry. Clean the inside of windows.
5 In the kitchen, thoroughly clean the tops of cabinets, fridges and stove vent. Be ruthless with the contents of your fridge and throw out anything old, or furry. Defrost your freezer, empty the contents and wipe the inside with a mix of a litre of hot water with 2 tablespoons of baking soda. 6 In the bedroom, flip your mattress
and edit your wardrobe. Store away winter garments until the next season and get rid of clothes you haven't worn for more than a year; don't save them for “someday”.
7 Organize bookshelves and stor-
age cabinets. Spring cleaning is a good time to donate unused or unwanted items.
8 Spring cleaning is also an ideal time to safely dispose of expired medications and replace batteries in your smoke detector. Once the work is done, open the windows and let that fresh spring air in.
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Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star Z9
Common Lawn Critters and
Celebrating 39 Years
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CC
ritters and pests can make landscaping aficionados want to pull the hair out of their heads. Such unwanted guests can come along just as a lawn or garden is rounding into shape, disrupting plant growth and leaving an unappealing landscape in their wake. The following are some of the more common critters and pests and how to recognize them. Chinch bugs: Chinch bugs like to feast on grass that is significantly exposed to sunlight. Chinch bugs may be living in thatch, so dethatching your lawn with a rake can make it easier to detect their presence. As chinch bugs rob grass of its moisture, they also inject toxins into the grass that loosens it from the soil. Grubs: Grubs are the larvae of beetles and are the nemesis of many a landscaping enthusiast because they typically produce patches of unsightly brown grass in their wake. The grass is discolored because grubs eat its roots, and the resulting damage may be mistaken for sun damage when temperatures are especially high. Moles: Moles tend to appear in lawns that have been excessively watered, as these burrowing mammals like to dig into the soil so they can fill up on grubs, insects and worms that live
below the surface of a lawn. Overwatered lawns typically have moist soil, which makes it easier for moles to dig. The presence of moles is pretty easy to detect, as they typically leave mounds of soil in their wake. Mole crickets: Mole crickets are a formidable foe to homeowners. As mole crickets tunnel through the soil beneath a lawn looking for insects to eat, they leave brown patches behind and affect the feel of the grass, which may feel as though it’s squishing and squashing beneath your feet. Mole crickets may eat grass roots, so the presence of dying grass may be indicative of a mole cricket infestation. Voles: Voles are small rodents that chew their way through the grass, leaving unsightly trails of damage in their wake. Homeowners who suspect their lawn has been victimized by voles can usually tell because the voles will leave noticeable pathways in the ground that can make a lawn look cracked in the way a roadway may looked cracked after an earthquake. Many critters are specific to certain regions, so before addressing a pest issue in your lawn, speak with a local lawn and garden or landscaping professional to confirm just which pest is causing so many problems around your property.
DID YOU KNOW? W
hile it might be tempting to lower mower blades when summer temperatures reach their hottest, it is possible to cut grass too short. Homeowners who want to cut back on the time they spend mowing their lawns under the hot summer sun should avoid lowering their mower blades too low, as doing so can cause significant damage to the lawn. Lawns that have been cut too low are less capable of surviving drought and are unlikely to thrive. When grass is cut too short, the stem tissue from the grass is exposed, and that exposure can lead to unsightly grass that turns yellow or brown. Grass that is cut too short also may suffer from weaker roots, which in turn makes the grass weaker and less likely to grow in strong. In addition, weaker grass is more susceptible to weed growth, which can be both a nuisance and an eyesore. When mowing, homeowners should remove no more than one-third of the grass blade. Mowing at this height will promote strong roots and protect the grass when the weather gets especially hot in the summer.
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Z10 Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star
How to create the ideal bedroom
FOR A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP (NC) Nothing is more important to our active, fun-filled lives than getting healthy, restorative sleep. Here are some tips for creating a bedroom to give you just that.
Change your pillow If your pillow is older than three years and has not been washed, it weighs more now than when you bought it. It's loaded with dust mites that are next to your face while you sleep. Choose hypoallergenic pillows over down pillows, and use a zippered pillow protector that you wash weekly for a double barrier. Wash your pillow at least twice a year and replace pillows every three years.
Mattress
Cover your mattress with a hypoallergenic cover and wash it every
two months. Make sure your mattress is non-toxic without formaldehyde-based fire retardants.
Pick non-VOC
With these tips, creating a bedroom sanctuary for a good night’s sleep is easier than ever.
paints
Try to always use non-VOC paints which won't off-gas, or leave an obnoxious paint odour to stir up allergies. It looks just as good on the wall as regular paint.
Always use a nylon shower curtain liner
Allergy sufferers are told to shower often to remove pollen and pet dander from their bodies. However, the phthalate chemicals in vinyl shower curtains off-gas with humidity and heat, and also attract mold and mildew. This off-gassing can easily spread from the bathroom into the bedroom. Replace your vinyl liner with a nylon shower curtain liner.
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Authorized Dealer OPEN: March 1st - Nov. 30 • 250-542-8191 • 4620-23rd Street Mon-Fri: 7:30am-5pm • Saturday: 8am-4pm • Sunday: 10am-2pm APRIL - JUNE
www.vernonlandscape.com • Behind ICBC OFFICES, OFF SILVER STAR RD.
At the window Light pollution is an issue that people often ignore when trying to get a good night's sleep. A well-fitted set of blinds, shades or shutters is a great choice, and it can be a healthier one, too, as draperies can be dust-catchers.
Wash or freeze stuffed toys Stuffed animals and dolls are breeding grounds for dust mites. Wash them or put them in the freezer for 24 hours to remove them.
Keep pets clean and off of beds Cat and dog allergies are very common, so keep pets bathed regularly to reduce the dander and don't allow them on your bed.
Flooring
Remember that tile & hardwood floors can be a healthier choice than carpeting, as floor spaces are the largest dust collectors in the home and wall-to-wall carpeting can release VOC's if it contains certain adhesives, backings and sealants. Whatever your flooring choice, vacuum or clean it on a regular basis.
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Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star Z11
Simple
sustainable gardening
Tips!
1220b Waddington Drive, Vernon BC
250-542-4355
Appointments are recommended***
S
ustainability is a concept that can be applied to many facets of life, and gardening is no exception. Sustainable gardening involves preserving and protecting resources, which can benefit us both in the present and in the future. Sustainability is especially applicable to gardening, and the following are a handful of ways green thumbers can embrace sustainability in their gardens. Choose to water more effectively. Oscillating sprinklers may harken today’s gardeners back to the carefree days of their childhoods when they would run through the sprinklers in their parents’ yards. But such sprinklers can lose substantial amounts of water to evaporation. When designing an irrigation plan for your lawn and garden, use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to conserve water. If you must use sprinklers, make sure they are not shooting water too high, as wind can blow the water away from the yard where it belongs, and be sure to position them so no water is landing on sidewalks, the driveway or the street. Add mulch to flower and plant beds. Many a gardener has gone to bed with a beautiful garden only to return in the ensuing days and see flower and plant beds littered with weeds. Mulch is perhaps best known for helping flower and plant beds retain moisture, but mulch also prevents the growth of weeds. Preventing weed growth means your water is going to the plants and flowers you intended it for and not to greedy and unsightly weeds. Preventing weed growth also reduces your use of potentially harmful pesticides to curtail the growth of weeds. Develop a compost pile. Compost is made up of de-
cayed organic material, and it can be used as a fertilizer. Gardeners can make their own compost piles at home, providing valuable minerals and nutrients for their lawns, without having to rely on store-bought amendments that need to be produced, packaged and transported before they can make it onto the shelves in your local lawn and garden center. Choose native plants. A garden filled with exotic plants and flowers may be stunning, but unless those plants are native to where you live, that beauty is coming at a steep price. When choosing plants for your garden, choose native plants that are fully capable of thriving in your local climate. Non-native plants are likely to need excessive watering and other less sustainable attention that native plants do not need. Plant with a plan. When planting trees around your property, plant them in locations that can reduce your reliance on air conditioning in the warmer months. Plant a tree in a place where it will help to shade common areas inside your home so such rooms are comfortable without the air conditioner cranking all day long. You can go one step further, and plant deciduous trees that will shed their leaves when the weather gets cold, ensuring that sunlight you want to keep out in the summer can get in and warm up the house in the winter, reducing the amount of energy needed to heat your home.
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Z12 Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star
Make the most of your
home
appraisal When homeowners think about renovating their properties, many first need to secure some funding to finance such projects. Some
may tap into the equity of their homes by refinancing an existing mortgage, while others may apply for home equity loans. Taking the latter approach may require certain steps, including an assessment of how much the home and property is worth. Home appraisals compare your home to neighboring properties to determine your home’s current market value. Homeowners can facilitate the process by having certain information readily available for the appraiser. When preparing for appraisers, homeowners should Complete Renovations • Repairs • Decks • Fences
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consider and collect the following information:
If your home was built on the largest lot in the community.
If you have made significant upgrades since it was last appraised, such as installing a new roof or siding. Don’t overlook smaller renovations, like extra insulation added or sealing drafty windows, which can increase a home’s value.
Proof that you have used sustainable resources or if you participated in any energy-savings programs. Naturally, any expansion projects, such as adding another bedroom or extending the footprint of the home, should be mentioned. A real estate appraiser is a certified, licensed professional who will do his or her best to determine the value of your home. The appraisal provides banks with information that can tell loan officers if the house is worth the loan amount. Expect to pay a fee for the appraisal, which is generally included in your closing costs. The appraiser gathers information for the appraisal report from a number of sources, but the process often begins with a physical inspection of the property, both inside and out. He or she also will compare your home against a few others in the neighborhood, which are known as comparables, or comps. Appraisals will be based on recent prices of comparable properties as well as other factors. Apart from the improvements done to the home, there are other ways to get a higher appraisal
amount. The appraiser may consider the overall maintenance of the home and property. It is wise to consider curb appeal and ensure the home is clean and maintained when the appraiser arrives. Minor repairs or common maintenance can impress the appraiser. Removing clutter and cleaning up the home’s interior can make the home appear larger, possibly increasing its value as a result. It may be worth it to invest some more money into the property before having an appraisal done. An appraiser will spend roughly 30 minutes in a home. Try to give that person space to do his or her job. Following the appraiser around during an inspection can raise a red flag that something is wrong with the house that you don’t want to be seen. Turn lights on throughout the house, make sure the heating or cooling system is functioning at full capacity and keep pets locked away. Move items that can impede access to basements or attics. An accurate assessment of the value of your home will give banks the information they need to determine loan amounts for future renovation projects. Providing background information on the home and having a well-maintained property can improve the chances of a favorable appraisal.
Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star Z13
INSPIRE YOUR HOME WITH EXTRAORDINARY STYLE. ALUSTRA® WOVEN TEXTURES® BY HUNTER DOUGLAS. Alustra® Woven Textures® shades bring one-of-a-kind beauty and light filtration to your home. An innovative alternative to solar screens and woven wood shades, this collection offers an array of distinctive fabrics that bring depth, richness and incomparable style to your décor.
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Z14 Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star
WATERING TIPS to produce healthy lawns Summer is a season for landscaping, and homeowners who live in regions that get especially hot in the summertime often worry that their lawns won’t make it through the dog days of summer looking lush. But lawns don’t have to succumb to the sizzling summer sun. Oftentimes, the right watering strategies can help homeowners nurse their lawns through the hottest months of the year, ensuring the lawns make it to autumn looking as green as they did back at the height of spring.
WHEN • RECONSIDER YOU’RE WATERING.
Come summertime, homeowners may want a glass of water at high noon, when temperatures seem to be at their hottest. But you and your lawn are different, so the best time to satiate your thirst is not necessarily the best time to water your lawn. Watering in the middle of the day is often ineffective, as water tends to evaporate quickly in the afternoons when temperatures are peaking. Nighttime watering can contribute to the growth of fungus, which
can create an entirely new set of headaches for homeowners. Morning watering sessions tend to be most effective during the summertime, as temperatures tend to be cooler in the morning, leading to less evaporation. Less evaporation means all that watering isn’t going to waste.
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If you can’t afford an in-ground irrigation system, which many landscaping professionals feel is the most effective and efficient way to water a lawn, then you likely will rely on a sprinkler to keep your lawn looking lush through the summer months. When choosing a sprinkler, look for one that shoots water out horizontally as opposed to vertically. A vertical sprinkler system is more vulnerable to wind and evaporation than one that shoots water out horizontally, so make sure your sprinkler system is sending water into your lawn and not into summer breezes.
OVERWATERING. •HowAVOID much water your lawn needs in
the summertime depends on where you live and how often rain falls in that region. Overwatering can promote the growth of fungus and adversely affect your lawn’s root system, making it difficult for roots to grow deep. Speak with a local landscaping professional to determine how often you should water your lawn each week.
Poorly placed sprinklers that shoot water out onto driveways and other surfaces that do not need water can rob a lawn of water it desperately needs when temperatures climb in the summertime.
• STRATEGICALLY POSITION YOUR SPRINKLERS.
When choosing where to put down your sprinklers, hook them up to your hose, turn them on and then watch to see where the water is going. Areas that exposed to sun are most in need of water, so make sure the bulk of your water isn’t going to shaded areas beneath trees. In addition, make sure you aren’t wasting water on sidewalks, patios and driveways. Sprinklers should be positioned so none of the water they’re shooting out is landing on surfaces that don’t need water. It sounds simple, but too often homeowners drop their sprinklers down, turn them on and then walk away without waiting to see where the water is landing. Position sprinklers or adjust sprinkler heads so all the water is landing on your lawn. Keeping a lawn lush and green at the height of summer requires homeowners to adopt effective strategies. Such a strategies can make the difference between a lush landscape and one that succumbs to summer heat.
REGIONAL DISTRICT of NORTH OKANAGAN
9848 Aberdeen Road, Coldstream, BC V1B 2K8 For more information, please contact the RDNO at recycle@rdno.ca or 250-550-3700.
Composter Rebate Program March 1 - September 30, 2015
Purchase…a composter from a participating North Okanagan retailer and be eligible for a Your BBQ Headquarters $30 rebate from the RDNO. In-store purchases only, one per household, original receipt required. Participating retailers and rebate forms are available at www.rdno.ca.
Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star Z15
Make the switch to the bright new world of
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(NC) As the Canadian government continues to transition out incandescent light bulbs, it's time to embrace the next step in the electricity evolution: light-emitting diodes, better known as LEDs. This advanced technology already being used across the country is light years ahead of incandescent bulbs when it comes to power usage, energy costs and overall sustainability. If, however, you still need convincing, here are just a few of the reasons why you should be using energy efficient lighting: Cost & energy savings: LED bulbs use approximately 85 per cent less energy than incandescent bulbs, significantly reducing energy bills for homeowners. In fact, by replacing the five most frequently-used light fixtures with LEDs in a home, consumers can save an average of $60 per year on electric bills. That means the bulbs, which cost an average of $10, will pay for themselves in a very short time. Long life: One LED light bulb will last an average of 25,000 hours (or about 22 years based on the average usage of three hours a day). This is a radical improvement, simplifying the upkeep of the home by saving time and reducing maintenance. Eco-friendly: As we take steps for a greener future, consider that LED lights are free of hazardous materials and are 100 per cent recyclable. Additionally, their longer life span means less material usage and waste over the long-term. Variety: LED lights are made for every space in your home – from an elegant chandelier in the dining room, to the safety lights in the driveway.
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Z16 Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star
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What is aeration? Lawn aeration is the practice of perforating the surface of a lawn in an effort to promote stronger roots and a healthier landscape. A host of factors, from inclement weather to kids using the yard as a playground to the type of grass in a yard, can make it difficult for lawns to thrive. Aerating is a way to counter some of the things that prevent lawns from looking lush. Why should I aerate? Aeration is practiced so lawns can grow deeper roots, as poking holes in the surface breaks up compacted soil, thereby allowing air, nutrients and water to reach the root system. Over time, a lawn that is not aerated is likely to feature compacted soil that won’t absorb water and nutrients, which are essential to maintaining a healthy lawn. Lawns that are not aerated also tend to build up thatch. Thatch is a matted layer of materials that can build up in a lawn over time. Grass clippings and other debris might not stick to your shoe when you walk through the yard, but they are combining to create thatch just below
the surface of the grass. That thatch also makes it difficult for water and nutrients to reach the soil where they can promote strong, healthy root systems. Aeration helps to combat the buildup of thatch and promote a healthy lawn. How often should I aerate? Lawns that are not subject to heavy use can go longer between aerations than those with more frequent use. If kids play in the yard every day or if you routinely host parties where guests spend lots of time in the yard, your lawn will benefit from more frequent aeration. Speak to a landscaping professional about how often your property needs to be aerated, as there may be certain region-specific variables that will influence how frequently a lawn should be aerated. When should I aerate? Landscaping professionals recommend aerating lawns during the growing season, when holes created by aeration can be filled by growing grass. Homeowners should consult with a landscaping professional about when to aerate their lawns, as the type of grass may also determine the best time to aerate.
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Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star Z17
Ceiling fans can help cool a home more efficiently when fan blades spin in the right direction for the season.
o How t
window on a shady side of the home, and then opening the attic door to blow air up into the attic. This will disperse the hot air and help force it out through the vents. • Use fans productively. Using box fans to suck cool night air in from eastand north-facing windows and to push out hot air from west- and south-facing windows is another way to increase circulation through a home. Running fans may be less costly than turning on air conditioners. Also, set ceiling fans to rotate counter-clockwise. This will pull cooler air up from the floor and create a wind-chill effect. • Reduce humidity levels. Humidity makes hot temperatures feel even hotter. Clean laundry, take showers and run the dishwasher at night or early in the morning before the day heats up. Don’t forget to vent bathrooms and kitchens by turning on exhaust fans when water is in use. • Rely on a programmable thermostat. Setting a thermostat to adjust the air conditioning system automatically means homeowners can keep the temperature raised when they’re not home and then have it lowered shortly before they arrive home. The thermostat also can adjust temperatures for day and night use. • Keep doors closed. Do not cool rooms that are unused. Maximize the cool air in lived-in spaces by blocking off rooms that do not need to be cooler. • Invest in more insulation. Insulation does not just keep homes warmer in the cold weather. Insulation also prevents hot air from infiltrating living
spaces while keeping cooler air where it’s needed. Sealant around
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Mother Nature is consistently inconsistent these days. Fickle weather is often accompanied by large fluctuations in temperature, strong storms and unseasonable conditions, making it difficult for homeowners to maintain comfort levels in their homes. As summer approaches once again, reducing cooling costs is a priority for many homeowners. The following are ways to cool your home’s interior without causing a spike in your energy bill. • Reduce sun exposure. Walls and windows on the south and west sides of a home will bear the brunt of the sun’s rays, so close shades and drapes on this side of the house to maximize coolness. Homeowners may also want to think about installing retractable awnings or planting shade trees on areas of the house that get alot of sun. • Draw more air into the attic. Hot air rises, and in the summertime hot air can get trapped beneath the roof in the attic and eaves of a home. While an attic should have vents, opening up a
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Z18 Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star
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Explaining carpet fibers & 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.
CARPET FIBERS
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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 don’t 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.
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. • 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.
Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star Z19
Garden-inspired
Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces are increasingly popular in backyards.
BRIGHTENS SPACES AND MOOD Many homeowners take up gardening to transform their homes with beautiful flowers and foliage, while others do so to yield fresh fruits and vegetables. But gardening can be more than just a weekend hobby. Explore these emerging and established garden décor trends to try in and around your home. • Living wall planters: A living wall planter can add greenery to any décor without taking up floor or table space. Ideal for outdoor structures, these planters also can be used indoors if you safeguard against leaks and dripping. A living wall planter is a framed device that houses plants in a manner that enables them to be vertically mounted to a wall surface. While there are commercially available models, you can create your own design and paint or stain it to match the existing décor. Use a soil-free potting substrate to avoid the mess that regular soil may create. • Combining fish with gardening: Enjoy the best of two relaxing worlds by installing a water feature in your yard. Garden retailers offer ready-made kits that can make fast work of establishing a pond or other water feature in the backyard. Otherwise, there are plenty of water garden companies and installers who can suggest a design and put in your desired water features. Add fish suitable for outdoor life to your pond. These include koi and certain goldfish varieties. Game fish are discouraged because they can destroy pond plants. • Creative furniture designs: Maybe you’re a person who appreciates the unique and whimsical? Tables,
benches and chairs can be built with planting channels that enable you to have greenery and garden décor in one piece. Envision a picnic table with a cutout down the center for a thin row of plants or decorative grasses. • Improved outdoor lighting: People who like to spend time in their gardens and yards may not want to be limited by sunrise and sunset. By incorporating different lighting sources, you can create a retreat that is welcoming at any hour. Although flood lights and overhead lights can illuminate a space, consider ambient and decorative lighting to create the desired ambiance. • Functional fire pits and places: A blazing fire creates a cozy spot to gather on chilly evenings, but fire pits and fireplaces also can be used as impromptu cooking spots. You can purchase a stand-alone fire pit from any number of retailers or build your own with patio pavers and fire bricks to line the interior of the fire pit. Outdoor fireplaces require more work, and you want to hire a mason to ensure proper installation. • Enjoyable yard additions: While plants and seating may take center stage, some people still want to have fun in their yards. There’s an increased demand for yard designs and décor that can put the fun in backyard living. Bocce courts, ring- or horseshoe-toss setups, as well as bean bag-toss boards, can be incorporated into landscape designs, giving you yet another reason to spend a few hours in the great outdoors.
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Z20 Sunday, April 19, 2015 - The Morning Star
Patio Season is Now Open! New Collections Arriving Daily!
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