Home and Garden_Fall 09.22.2023

Carey Bros. Remodeling happy to be back to normal as home values level off

After nearly 40 years of business, the Carey Bros. Remodeling went through a bit of a rough patch earlier this year. As home values rose and interest rates went up, more homeowners pulled back on things, more specifically, upgrading or renovating their homes.

But as housing costs have started to level off, both James and Morris Carey said they are happy to have business back in full swing.

“Consumers started to pull back a bit,” James Carey said. “Things have stabilized, inflation is better than it was, increased rates have stabilized and the bank fiasco is pretty much behind us. So, consumers, I think, are feeling more comfortable now about proceeding with their home improvement projects.”

Carey Bros. Remodeling is an awardwinning East County business run by third-generation licensed general contractors and Pittsburg natives James Carey and his

brother Morris. Both have been in business for nearly four decades as their company has completed just under 800 projects, according to their website.

“We’re a small company that details its work,” James said. “The standard rule of thumb among remodelers is to get the job and then get 20 percent in change orders to make a profit.

“We take pride in having a one and a half percent change order rate because we’re thorough up front.”

They work with their clients to create a design concept, scope of work, construction drawings, fixtures and finish selections, and 3D modeling for the project.

James described how the rising costs of housing affected the business earlier this year.

“There are two things,” he explained. “One is work that you have in the pipeline, and the other is generating new work. Fortunately, we had a lot of work in the pipeline, which meant that we sailed along. We’re normally booked several months in advance, and that diminished slightly from four or five months, to a couple of months.”

“A steady influx of work means steady work for the people in the business.”

For those looking to start their home renovation projects, James and Morris have some advice.

“Contractors should be licensed,” James said. “A contractor should be bonded, a contractor should be insured, and you should never pay the contractor cash and never do work without permits. A permit is what protects the homeowner against faulty workmanship and you need as many of those checks and balances as possible.

“There are three ways to have a successful project when you do a remodel or an improvement to your home. Number one is to plan. Number two is to plan. Number three is to plan.”

Those planning their home remodeling projects can visit Carey Bros. Remodeling at www.careybros.com and by calling them at 877-734-6404.

JEFF WEISINGER

Photo courtesy of Carey Bros. James and Morris Carey work with their clients to create a design concept, scope of work, construction drawings, fixtures and finish selections, and 3D modeling for the project.

Things to consider when renovating a vacation home

Vacation homes may seem like a luxury only the very wealthy can afford, but many people purchase vacation homes as investments. Vacation homes give families a place to escape to where they can spend time together each summer or winter, but such homes also help homeowners generate income, and some homeowners even find the height of vacation season generates enough rental income to pay for the second home year-round.

Personal style goes a long way toward determining how to renovate a primary residence. But men and women who own vacation homes they hope to rent out should not allow their own personal styles to dictate a vacation home renovation project. The following are some additional things homeowners should consider before renovating their vacation homes.

Exterior appeal

When renovating a vacation property, relatively minor updates can dramatically improve curb appeal, which may bear more weight with prospective renters than it would prospective buyers. Potential buyers are making a substantial financial commitment when they buy a home, so they will go over a home with a fine-tooth comb. But vacation renters are making a much smaller financial commitment, so exterior appeal can go a long way toward encouraging vacationers to rent your property. Repaint a home in a

more vibrant color or replace old siding with newer material. Hire a local landscaping service to tend to the property throughout the vacation season, and be sure to include updated photos of your property with online listings.

Connectivity

While vacation was once a respite from all aspects of our everyday lives, nowadays vacationers want to maintain at least some connection to the outside world. If your vacation home is not up-to-date with its wireless technology, upgrade to a faster network that offers high speed Internet. Such connectivity can and likely will prove attractive to prospective renters who have grown accustomed to relying on the Internet, even when they are on vacation.

Appliances

A vacation rental may not need the latest and greatest appliances, but homeowners may find it easier to attract renters (and charge more in rent) if the home is not filled with outdated appliances reminiscent of a longforgotten era. Upgrade especially outdated appliances, but make sure any upgrades fit with the theme of your rental. For example, stainless steel appliances may look great in your primary residence, but such appliances are costly and may not be what renters hoping to find a beachside bungalow are looking for.

Accessibility

Some people want a vacation home far off the beaten path, but that does not mean the home has to be inaccessible. If your vacation home is in a wooded area far off the road, consider paving the access road prospective renters will use to get to and from the property. This relatively small touch may appeal to potential renters who want some seclusion but don’t want to put their vehicles through the ringer every time they leave the property.

- Courtesy of Metro Creative

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative Renovating a vacation home is a great way to generate extra rental income from the property, and there are several ways homeowners can make their vacation homes more attractive to renters without breaking the bank.

Several ways to improve outdoor living spaces

The popularity of outdoor living spaces has been growing for years. A 2014 study from the home remodeling and design platform Houzz found that 56 percent of homeowners were making updates to improve their yards for entertaining. Similarly, nearly 60 percent of architectural practices surveyed by the American Institute of Architects in 2016 said outdoor living spaces were popular features in the homes they built.

Outdoor living spaces may also be sound investments for homeowners looking to improve the resale value of their properties. According to Remodeling magazine’s 2017 “Cost vs. Value” report, outdoor living spaces returned between 55 and 71 percent of homeowners’ initial investments at resale.

When planning an outdoor living space, homeowners with ample backyards have much to work with. However, to make the most of the space while simultaneously hoping to get as strong a

return on their investments as possible, homeowners should look to create spaces that offer broad appeal and are not too personalized. The following are some popular outdoor living space features homeowners may want to consider.

Outdoor kitchens

Outdoor kitchens allow homeowners to prepare more than just traditional backyard barbecue fare. A standalone charcoal grill in the backyard might get the job done, but a built-in gas grill complete with burners and surrounding granite countertop makes for a more functional outdoor entertaining space.

Bars

Indoor entertaining areas often include bars, so it makes sense that homeowners want to include a place to prepare and serve beverages to their guests. Homeowners with room in their budgets may want to install wet bars where they can rinse mixers, glasses and other items needed to prepare drinks for their guests.

Warming features

Features that can keep homeowners and their guests warm after the sun sets include outdoor fireplaces and firepits. A 2016 survey conducted by the American

Society of Landscape Architects found that fireplaces and firepits were the most popular outdoor design element in 2016. Such features can provide a focal point in the backyard while also extending the outdoor living season into autumn and even early winter.

Porch space

Outdoor living spaces are often found in the backyard, but homeowners with bigger front yards than backyards may want to expand or open their porch spaces to create more space outside.

Porch swings and rocking chairs provide a great place to relax, and porch spaces are covered, meaning homeowners can continue to enjoy time outside even when it begins to rain.

Local residents can find help at Brentwood Outdoor Living at 6061-G Lone Tree Way in Antioch by calling (925) 626-6383 or visiting https://brentwoodoutdoorliving.com. They also can consult Majestic Pool and Landscaping in Clayton at (925) 676-1545, visit https://majesticpoolsandlandscapes.com.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

5 Perfect Steps to Extend the Life of Your HVAC System and Save Money!

The team at the 5-time “Best of Brentwood” winning Perfect Star Heating and Air Conditioning were asked for their tips on extending the life of your home’s central heating and cooling system while saving you lots of headaches and money along the way.

1) Changing your Filter: “Changing your filter is one of the easiest things that you can do to keep your system running at peak performance and also to prevent any future breakdowns,” says Perfect Star Senior Technician Raymond Kinder. “We recommend changing your filter every 2-3 months,” says Kinder. Bonus tip: Find out what kind of filter your system uses and stock up on them. Purchasing filters directly on-line from Amazon or in person from any local home improvement store will give you peace of mind while also saving you money.

2) Annual Seasonal Maintenance: “This is critical in improving performance and preventing breakdowns” says Perfect Star Senior Comfort Advisor Gilbert Caceres. “Scheduling your maintenances before peak usage seasons is important because it prevents breakdowns on hot summer days or cold winter nights, when the systems are working their hardest. On every maintenance call, we ensure that everything is working properly. We test all running parts and make sure all the safety sensors are fully functioning.  On top of that, we provide a thorough safety inspection on your furnace and air conditioner.”

Tip: Perfect Star offers membership plans for everyone. Annually, Perfect Star Members receive a seasonal system rejuvenation, including safety inspections. Plus, Members receive priority scheduling and discounted emergency diagnostics, repairs, and parts.

3) Don’t Put Off Repairs: “If your system starts acting irregularly, such as making a weird noise or not working to its fullest capacity, contact an HVAC service technician ASAP,” says Perfect Star Owner Chris Donzelli. “The sooner you address the issue and get it solved, the less chance you have of facing unnecessary long-term

damage to your system.”

Bonus Tip: If necessary repairs are beyond your current budget, Perfect Star is happy to announce that they not only have 0% financing available on new home comfort systems but now offer 0% financing available for repairs over $999.

4) Your Thermostat: This one’s super easy! “Changing the batteries in your thermostat once a year can erase connectivity issues between your thermostat and your HVAC units,” says Kinder. “Also upgrading to a Wi-Fi thermostat will allow you to control your system remotely from your mobile device.”

5) Your Indoor Air Quality: “Living in a confined space means that the cleanest home may still be unsanitary. Think about it this way: the average person needs 2 quarts of water a day to survive, but needs 15,000 quarts of air to survive so you must ask yourself ‘Why do people purchase filtered/bottled water yet don’t feel the need to purify and clean their air?’” Donzelli says.

“We are proud to be able to offer our clients the Plasma Air, an affordable, safe, and effective whole home air purification system. Plasma Air not only neutralizes and reduces pollen, dust, pet dander, mold spores, smoke and odors, but it has been tested and proven to reduce viruses and bacteria such as the live SARS-CoV-2 virus.” Plus, in addition to keeping your air clean it also helps keep your HVAC system clean!

For more information, please call Perfect Star at 925-255-5527 or visit us at www.PerfectStarHVAC.com.

Photo by Keith Halterman

The Perfect Star team is more than happy to pass its expertise on to you. (From Left to Right) Perfect Star Mascot: Perfect Paul and Perfect Star Owner: Chris Donzelli.

How to keep your lawn looking green

Homeowners’ fasciation with a lush, green lawn is something that has developed over time and is still “growing” strong. According to a 2019 survey conducted on behalf of the National Association of Landscape Professionals, 81 percent of all Americans had lawns and 79 percent said a lawn is an important feature when buying or renting a property.

Even though lush lawns are still coveted, due to drought, the financial climate and even invading insect populations, many people are taking inventory of their landscapes and deciding if a lawn is a priority, even going so far as to reinvent their spaces with lawn alternatives. Still, there are ways to keep properties green no matter which route is taken. Here’s a look at some environmentally friendly ways to address a landscape.

Irrigate from below

There are many ways to water landscapes, but homeowners may want to take their cues from the commercial farming indus-

try. Drip irrigation systems utilize a network of valves, pipes and tubing close to the roots of plants or under the soil. Such systems are more efficient than surface irrigation options, helping to save water and nutrients in the soil.

Water early

Scotts Lawn Care suggests watering a lawn in the morning before 10 a.m. when it is cooler and winds tend to be calmer. This ensures water can be absorbed into the soil and grass roots before evaporation occurs. Watering midday may cause the water droplets on the lawn blades to heat up and actually scorch the lawn.

Plant a new grass type

Homeowners can experiment with eco-friendly grass seed blends that mix native grasses and may not require as much water nor ideal growing conditions.

Use green alternatives

Rather than focusing solely on grass, some homeowners are turning to alternatives like clover and even moss, particularly if their landscapes do not have the most pristine growing conditions. This may reduce the

need for chemical fertilizers and herbicides. The result is still a green, inviting yard.

Watch the lawn height

Mowing too frequently or at too low a height may compromise the lawn’s ability to thrive. Grass cut to the proper height develops a deep root system to better locate water and nutrients in the soil. That means homeowners may not have to water as much or as frequently. Taller lawns also shade the soil and the roots, reducing some evaporation.

Compost

Leave the clippings on the lawn to break down and further feed nutrients to the lawn, helping it look greener and thrive. Furthermore, rely on supplementation with compost to reinforce the nutrient profile in the soil. The National Resources Defense Council says composting is the natural process of recycling organic matter, such as leaves and food scraps, into a valuable fertilizer. It doesn’t take much to nurture compost in a yard.

For more information about how to take care of your lawn, visit Morgan’s Home & Garden Center at 2555 E. 18th St. in Antioch, calling 925-755-7600 or visiting www.morganshomeandgarden.com/.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Courtesy of Metro Creative

Green landscapes

How to handle a lengthy ren ovation

Even though COVID-19-related restrictions have lifted and life has largely returned to regular programming, renovations remain a popular investment.

Homeowners embarking on home renovation projects understand that a certain measure of upheaval is to be expected, but some may not fully anticipate the impact that renovations have on daily life. The following are some tips for making it through a lengthy renovation.

♦ Discuss the timeline with contractors. It may be easier to make a plan for how much life will be disrupted if you have an idea of how long the renovation will be (if everything goes according to plan). Sit down with contractors and have them spell out the minutiae of the project so you’ll be able to anticipate what’s going on day-to-day.

♦ Start at the right time. Some contractors may say they can fit your project into their schedules in between other jobs. While this may seem convenient and timely, your work may be put on hold if there are delays with the other job or jobs. Instead, it may be better to hold off until the contractors can devote the bulk of their attention to your renovation.

♦ Pack up and cover. Remodeling one room may cause a trickle-down effect on other areas. Dust from drywall sanding can infi ltrate many rooms in the home. Pack and label boxes with items not immediately needed and store them in another area. Cover most things so a fi lm of dust won’t form on them.

♦ Adjust your schedule. Sleeping in will be a thing of the past for the duration of the renovation, as may be working from a home offi ce. Try to get out of the work zone as much as possible for new scenery and respites from the noises and smells.

Area residents can get answers to your questions with Carey Bros. Remodeling at (877) 734-6404 or visit their website at www.careybros.com.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

How to simplify installing paving stone

Paving stones can add beauty to walkways, driveways and backyard patios, providing that eye-catching finishing touch to a property while enhancing its exterior appeal.

Even though the installation of pavers can be a labor-intensive process, with the right tools and tips, this can be a do-it-yourself project for homeowners with renovation experience. Consider these tricks and howto tips courtesy of The Home Depot, DIY Network and Unilock.

♦ Get your supplies: Marking paint, mason line, wooden stakes, leveling sand, paver base, and more will be required. A manual tamper can be used. However, for larger areas, it can be worth the cost to rent a plate compactor.

♦ Measure the area: The number of bags of sand, paver base and paving stones needed for the project depends on the size of the area. For example, according to the Home Depot, for 60 square feet, homeowners will need about 30 12 by 12-inch paver stones, 40 bags of paver base and 12 bags of paver leveling sand.

Spray or mark the area where the paving stones will be laid. Measure carefully so you can order exactly how many stones you will need. Have the materials delivered to reduce

heavy lifting and trips to the store. Be sure to have all utility lines marked prior to excavation to avoid damage.

♦ Prepare the base carefully: If you cut corners in this process, the finished results can be sloppy, weeds can grow through and/or stones may loosen.

Grade the area away from the house. That means that the highest point of the patio or walkway should be closest to the house and then the incline gradually flattens out as it moves away from the home. This allows proper water runoff. Mark the height on the stakes and adjust the mason line. Remember to slope the area away from your home with a drop-off of about one inch for every 8 feet.

The base of many DIY applications should be between four and six inches deep. Work incrementally, raking and tamping until the base is firm. Lightly wetting the material can help it solidify.

Sand helps inhibit weed growth and anchor the pavers together. Plastic lining will not be practical.

♦ Installation: Use edge restraints and a string line to keep the design straight. Do not hammer the pavers together. Paver sand will need to be swept over and settled between the stones to help set them in place.

− Courtesy of Metro Creative

Create your native plant garden

Recent years have witnessed a growing emphasis on eco-friendly gardening that aims to reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides in an effort to protect the planet. One way to do so is to rely on native plants.

What are native plants?

Native plants are indigenous to particular regions. The National Wildlife Federation says native plants grow in habitats without human introduction or intervention. Native plants have formed symbiotic relationships with local wildlife over thousands of years, which the NWF notes makes them the most sustainable options. Native plants help the environment and thrive with little supplemental watering or chemical nutrients.

Start native planting

Gardeners can visit local gardening centers to select native plants. Small and independently owned centers often feature knowledgeable local staff whose expertise can prove invaluable to individuals seeking

native varieties.

It’s important to keep in mind that native varieties may look less cultivated than more exotic blooms and foliages designed to sell for their unique appearances. Wildflowers and native grasses may be the types of native plants found in abundance, which may grow up and out quickly.

♦ Plan and prepare the site by removing weeds and turning over the soil. This will give seedlings an opportunity to take root without competition from weeds. Seedlings will give gardens a faster head-start than waiting around for seeds to germinate. However, gardeners can start seeds indoors and then move them outside once they are seedlings.

♦ Avoid planting native plants in rows, as that’s not how they’re likely to grow naturally. Vary the placement so the plants look like they sprouted up haphazardly.

♦ Gardeners can still exert some control over native gardens prone to growing a little wild. Borders and paths can better define the growing areas.

For more information, contact Perez Nursery and Landscaping, 2601 Walnut Blvd. Brentwood at 925-516-1052.

– Courtesy of of Metro Creative

Factors to consider when buying furniture

Buying furniture can be an exciting prospect. The opportunity to breathe new life into a home with the addition of different furnishings inspires many people. However, at the same time, searching for furniture can be a tad overwhelming, especially when homeowners do not know where to begin.

Statistics Canada reports that Canadians spend an average of $934 on furniture each year. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that, in 2017, Americans spent an average of $2,484 on furniture. While furniture may not be the most costly investment, it’s also not the cheapest, which is why getting it right is important.

Determine your needs

The first step in purchasing new furniture is to decide what is needed. Assess current furniture and think about what works for certain pieces and what doesn’t. Then you can gear purchases around desired features. For example, if you’ve determined chenille fabric holds on to too much pet fur,

the next couch may be leather or microfiber.

Measure more than once

Measure your room multiple times and create a mock floor plan. This will help when figuring out if certain pieces can fit into the space. Some retailers even offer floor plan software on their websites so that you can upload the dimensions of your room and see how certain items will fit in your spaces. In addition, be sure to measure the width of doors to ensure that it’s easy to get the furniture into the home when delivered.

Shopping for furniture means taking steps to measure, match style, read reviews, and find pieces that fit homeowners’ lifestyles.

Determine your style

Figure out which style best fits your personality and lifestyle. This may be traditional, transitional or modern. Incorporate pieces accordingly, or mix and match to

create a look that is completely unique.

Confirm materials

Consider your budget when choosing the construction materials for the furniture. Solid wood tends to be more expensive, but often more durable than engineered products. In addition, check to see how items are built. Pull out drawers and check hinges to ensure the quality is there.

Save money on sales

Furniture can be expensive, but there is room for savings. Shop when retailers offer seasonal sales. Consider warehouse retailers, which often sell select items at a discount.

Read reviews

Before taking the plunge, be sure to read reviews of items and retailers. While items may appear perfect, reviews can shed light on how pieces stand up to wear and tear.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Photo courtesy of Metro Creative

How to install, keep your wood floor clean

Wood floors are coveted for a number of reasons, not the least of which is their aesthetic appeal. Many people prefer wood flooring because dust and dirt do not become trapped as they would in carpet fibers, seemingly making wood flooring easy to clean.

Installing a wood floor involves a lot of preparation work, said Cliff McCurley, general manager at National Flooring & Supply in Brentwood.

The most important parts of proper installation are making sure the foundation is solid, checking to see if that needs to be leveled, picking the boards properly and making sure they line up when they are laid down, he said.

The biggest mistake people make when installing them on their own is not doing the above – ‘just not snapping the boards in properly, lining up the material properly,” he said, adding that that mistake is easy to make for most people if they don’t consult an expert first.

As for cleaning them, most floors endure a lot of wear and tear. However, with care, wood flooring may last for decades. Part of that care includes understanding how to prop-

erly clean and maintain wood floors so they look their best. The following are some steps for keeping wood floors as pristine as possible.

♦ Remove shoes. It’s a good idea to remove shoes, particularly heels, when walking on wood floors. Sharp heels, cleats and other shoes can scratch or dent wood flooring. All shoes can track in excess dirt, which can contribute to a lack of luster as well.

♦ Sweep or vacuum frequently. The experts at The Spruce suggest sweeping, vacuuming or dust mopping wood floors daily. Dirt and dust make floors more slippery, and dirt or sand particles can lead to scratches on the floor.

♦ Learn your flooring type. Wood

flooring is broken down into three main categories: solid hardwood flooring, engineered hardwood flooring and laminate wood flooring. Traditional hardwood is made of planks or strips of any hardwood covered in a wood stain. Engineered flooring is manufactured by gluing together several thin plies of hardwood. Laminate flooring looks like wood but generally is a veneer or a photographic image of wood covered by a thick layer of melamine resin over fiberboard.

♦ Skip harsh cleansers. Regardless of flooring type, most are covered by a sealant that can become streaky or dull if the wrong cleanser is used. Avoid chlorine bleach, ammonia, pine oil, or undiluted

vinegar. Instead, choose a cleanser that is specifically recommended for the flooring type. Do not allow water or solutions to sit on the floor, as that can contribute to staining and warping. With laminate flooring, avoid wet mopping unless the flooring is specifically marked as being able to be wet. The underlayers of laminate flooring can warp if it gets wet.

♦ Damp is better than wet. When cleaning wood flooring, use a damp rather than a soaking wet mop. Better Homes & Gardens says standing water can damage wood surfaces.

♦ Use the hard floor setting. When vacuuming, adjust the vacuum to a hard flooring setting, which will not engage the brush rollers on the vacuum head. Rollers can scratch wood and laminate flooring, advises The Home Depot.

♦ Use repair products as needed. Scratch and repair kits can fill in small scratches. Wood floor polish and wood waxes also can revitalize worn floors. Again, check that the product is safe for your particular flooring before use.

For more information, contact National Flooring & Supply in Brentwood at 2010 Elkins Way at 925-634-4111 or visit https://nfsbrentwood.com.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Courtesy of Metro Creative

Wood floors bring warmth to a home and are very popular. Cleaning them correctly can add to their appeal and longevity.

Learn the risks of plants to cats and dogs

Plants can be beautiful additions to a home and provide a natural way to filter interior air. Many homeowners prefer to enhance their spaces with greenery and various flowers. Though that’s a great way to design a home’s interior, pet owners must exercise caution with plants to safeguard their furry friends.

Adults understand that they may need to wash their hands after handling certain types of plants, and that it can be unsafe to consume them. Children are instructed by their parents to do the same. Even though many pets can be trained to steer clear of certain dangers, their natural propensity to gnaw on various items out of curiosity or even boredom may entice them to investigate plants.

Some plants are more dangerous than others. According to the Farmer’s Almanac, more than 700 indoor/outdoor plants contain toxic substances that are not safe for cats and dogs. Learning about common plants and their hazards can help keep pets safe. The following are some plants that are toxic to cats and dogs, courtesy of the ASPCA.

♦ Adam and Eve (Arum, Starch Root): This plant can cause oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing.

♦ Aloe vera: While the gel is considered edible, the rest of the plant may cause lethargy, diarrhea and vomiting.

♦ Amaryllis: There are many different types of amaryllis, and most will cause vomiting, depression, diarrhea, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, and tremors in cats and dogs.

♦ Azalea: These plants of the rhododendron family cause vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and potential cardiac

failure.

♦ Begonia: The most toxic part of this plant is underground. Still, it may cause vomiting and salivation in dogs and cats.

♦ California ivy: The foliage is more toxic than the berries, and could contribute to vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, and diarrhea.

♦ Clematis: Salivation, vomiting and diarrhea are common if the plant is ingested.

♦ Daisy (and other chrysanthemum species): Dermatitis, vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, and incoordination may occur.

♦ Elephant ears: This plant may cause oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing.

♦ Foxglove: This may cause cardiac arrhythmia, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, cardiac failure, and death.

♦ Geranium: Ingesting geranium may lead to depression, dermatitis and vomiting.

♦ Holly: Vomiting, diarrhea and depression may occur. However, leaves and berries are low toxicity.

♦ Mother of millions: This succulent could cause vomiting, diarrhea, and, in rare instances, abnormal heart rhythm.

♦ Philodendron: Oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing could occur.

♦ Sago palm: The Sago palm can cause vomiting, increased thirst, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, bruising, coagulopathy, liver damage, liver failure, and death.

♦ Snake plant: Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea could occur if pets ingest this plant.

For a complete list of plants that can be toxic to cats, dogs and horses, visit www.aspca.org. Those who suspect their pets may have ingested a potentially toxic substance should call their local veterinarians as soon as possible or the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

– Courtesy of Metro Creative

Courtesy of Metro Creative

Pet owners should be cautious with plants to safeguard their furry friends.

What to know about installing a pool at home

Summer is a season of relaxation when school is not in session, vacation season is in full swing and people everywhere are getting outside and soaking up the summer sun. It’s hard to imagine how that can get any better. But it can for people thinking of installing a pool in their backyard.

Pools definitely have a wow factor that’s hard to replicate. Homeowners considering

pool installation can take note of these factors as they try to decide if a pool is right for them.

Cost

The cost to install a pool depends on a host of factors, including which type of pool homeowners are considering and where they live. According to the online home improvement resource Angi (formerly Angie’s list), the average cost to install an above ground pool in the United States in 2022 was $3,322, while the average inground pool installation in the same year was $55,000. That’s quite a disparity in price, and homeowners should

know that the average cost of each project is higher in certain regions and under certain circumstances. Potential ancillary costs, such as excavation and plumbing relocation, will add to the final cost of the project. The erection of fencing around the pool if no fencing currently surrounds the area where the pool will be located also will add to the final cost.

Pool type

As noted, above-ground pools, on average, require a considerably smaller financial investment than inground pools. This is an important consideration, but which option may ultimately prove the better investment is worth researching. Homeowners can speak with a local real estate professional to determine if an inground pool or above ground might yield a significantly higher return at resale. If an inground pool is likely to increase property value by a substantial amount, it could be well worth the extra upfront costs.

Maintenance

Pools are fun, but they still require maintenance. The experts at Better Homes & Gardens note that vinyl liners in pools last six to 10 years, while painted concrete may require a fresh coat of paint every five years. Plaster finishes may last as long as 15 years, while cement-coated products can last a lifetime. Pools also need periodic cleaning, and chemicals to keep the pool operating

safely and cleanly will require an additional, if somewhat minimal, financial investment. Homeowners investing in a new pool should be aware of the maintenance required to keep the pool clean and be willing to do that maintenance. And though homeowners typically can open and close pools on their own, it’s also possible to hire someone to do it for a relatively small fee each season.

Location

A survey of the land in a yard can reveal how smoothly a pool installation may or may not go. Though it’s possible to install a pool in just about any yard, some spaces might require greater preparation and pre-installation effort than others. Sloped backyards, for example, may require the services of a landscape architect to prepare the space, which can extend the time it takes to complete the project and add the overall cost.

These are just some of the factors that merit consideration when mulling a pool installation. A homeowners’ best resource might be a local pool company who can visit a home, provide an estimate and point out any challenges that may arise during the install.

Area residents can find more information by contacting Diablo Pools in Brentwood at 925-625-1516 or diablopools.com. Or Majestic Pool and Landscaping in Clayton at 925-6761545 or emailing courtney@majesticpoolsandlandscapes.com.

Closing the pool for another season

Closing a pool at the end of the swimming season can be bittersweet. Homeowners may be sad to bid adieu to the lazy days of splashing and swimming, but ready to embrace the cooler weather and the beauty of autumn. Before the leaves begin to fall from the trees, pool owners must prepare to close, or winterize, their pools.

♦ Gather your supplies. Make a list of the supplies you need to close the pool. Having everything on hand will make the process far more efficient than trying to wing it. Closing a pool can be a large job, so it pays to have some extra hands available. Enlist some helpers who will be available to hand you materials or to assist with placing the cover on the pool - which can be challenging to do on your own.

♦ Don’t wait until the last minute to purchase necessary chemicals. The chemicals used throughout the season will also be needed in the winterization process. Therefore, be sure you have enough before pool supplies become difficult to find in area stores. These include sanitizer, algaecide and pH-balancing chemicals.

♦ Clean the entire pool area. Ensuring the pool water and the surface of the pool is clean can make reopening the pool easy. Vacuum the pool thoroughly, removing any debris and organic matter that can contribute to algae growth. Don’t forget to brush down the walls of the pool and clean the jets and area where the filter skimmer meets the pool. Pool walls have plenty of crevices where algae can hide and multiply.

♦ Test the water. Leading pool products manufacturer Hayward recommends adjusting the pH to between 7.2 and 7.8 to prevent stains, scaling and algae growth. Alkalinity

should be 80 to 125 ppm for plaster/gunite pools and 125 to 150 ppm for other pool types. Test the level of available chlorine, and super-chlorinate the pool to maintain a sanitation level of at least 4 ppm. Once the pool cover is on, the amount of chlorine that escapes due to sunlight and evaporation will decrease. An algaecide may be used,

♦ Run the filter. Run the filter at least 24 hours before disassembling the filter for the season. This will help circulate any chemicals added through the water.

♦ Drain the pool’s water to the appropriate level. Water should fall just below the skimmer opening. Many pools do not need to be completely drained for the winter.

♦ Shut off the filter pump, heater and any other equipment. Let all water drain out and allow equipment to dry before storing them away. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for lubrication and covering. Install freeze plugs if you choose to use them.

♦ Adjust electricity settings. Turn off the circuit to outdoor outlets that feed the pool equipment, testing to make sure the power is off.

♦ Put accessories away. Remove any ladders, diving boards, slides, external drain lines, and other recreational materials from the pool, storing them in a garage or shed so they are not subjected to potentially harsh winter weather.

♦ Inflate air pillows to roughly 80 percent full if you will be using them. Gather your helpers to attach the pool cover or leaf catcher net. Secure it thoroughly with

Business Profile

A&B LANDSCAPE

Creating your own outdoor resort and oasis not only adds value to your home, it also gives you space to unwind and entertain. When your colorful landscape comes with someone else to maintain it, what’s not to like?

A & B Landscape offers services including concrete and paving, irrigation installs and repairs, retaining walls, complete landscaping and landscape lighting, and weekly or bi-weekly maintenance.

Get the yard you dream about, custom designed to fit your budget, with A & B Landscape.