FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT October 5, 2017
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 5, 2017
Two
Fall Home Improvement
As Economy Improves, Homeowners’/Buyers’ Priorities Changing
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lthough the heydays of the real estate boom of the early 2000s have not quite returned, things look positive. In the United States, more than 1.2 million new homes were built in 2016, according to data from Consumer Reports. That was the most since 2007. Resales also have been more promising. The National Association of Realtors says the median number of days a home was on the market in April 2017 reached a new low of 29 days. However, low supply levels did stanch existing home sales somewhat. By mid-2017, the market was a seller’s market, with more people searching for new homes than properties available. But sales during that time were still outpacing sales figures from a year prior. In fact, in May 2017, home sales in Canada increased to their highest level in more than five years, according to the Canadian MLS Systems. Low interest rates on mortgages and more confidence in
Home buyers increasingly seek smaller, more technology-based residences the economy has driven many people to make improvements to their existing homes. As is typical, the things homeowners are looking for in 2017 have evolved from years past. The following are some trends that are helping to steer the real estate market further. • Smaller homes: Home sizes in the United States steadily increased for decades, eventually leading to an average of 2,453 square feet in 2014, according to U.S. Census figures. However, Realtor.com reported in 2015 that new construction homes have already begun to shrink by 40 square feet. There seems to be a
slight trend toward more modest homes as people consider affordability and maintenance on larger properties. The National Association of Home Builders states buyers are now looking for smaller, more livable homes with flexible floor plans, energy-efficient appliances and plenty of storage space. • Matte finishes: Stainless steel and luster have been popular for years. However, the next big thing is matte finishes on faucets,
appliances and even in countertops. These less flashy finishes are prized for their warmth and elegance. While some high-end models with matte finishes have been available for several years, even less expensive models are now available. • Smarter technology: Many homeowners are embracing smart technology throughout their homes, but it’s not just lights that turn on with voice command or more efficient thermostats. Inno-
vative technology includes toilets that can autonomously stay clean and sanitized, refrigerators equipped with cameras so homeowners can see the contents inside and indoor food recyclers that can turn food waste into fertilizer. Staying abreast of the everchanging trends in home improvement and real estate can help consumers make the best choices with regard to buying and building their homes.
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 5, 2017
Three
Fall Home Improvement Tips To Kickstart That Stalled Project
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pon embarking on a home improvement project, homeowners who have never before lived through such undertakings are often told to expect their projects to take more time than initial estimates suggested. Unforeseen complications can compromise project timelines, and some homeowners may find their projects stuck in neutral. Stalled projects can make life at home difficult, and homeowners may feel helpless with regard to getting a project back on course. But there are ways for homeowners to get stalled projects back on course. • Start off on solid financial footing. It’s important that homeowners who want to upgrade their homes enter the home improvement process with a realistic grasp of their finances. Many home improvement projects stall when homeowners run out of money. Homeowners can avoid
such unfortunate situations by only beginning a project they know they can afford. Whether funding a project with a loan or savings or a combination of both, homeowners should make an honest assessment of what they can afford to commit to a given project. If the amount of money available does not add up to the estimated cost of the project, delay the project now or you might be facing a stalled project down the road. • Honestly assess whether or not you can finish the job. Do-ityourselfers may have the abilities to complete a project, but they should not let their pride get in the way of their ultimate goal, which is the completion of the project. In addition to money, time or lack thereof, is often the culprit behind stalled projects. Homeowners with full-time jobs, families or both may not be able to find the time to complete a job in a timely fashion. If the project
has been stuck in neutral and no sudden windfall of free time is on the horizon, start contacting contractors to finish the job for you. • Ask for help. There’s no shame in asking for help to complete a project. Some homeowners may underestimate the scope of a project until it’s too late. Asking family, friends or neighbors for help might be the only way to get a stalled project back on track. Certain home improvement projects may not require advanced skills, and even friends or family with little or no home improvement experience can pitch in to complete such projects. When more advanced projects stall, homeowners may want to hire contractors to complete the work. If budgets have not left much room for hiring a contractor, homeowners can perform some of the labor on their own. • Be mindful of permits. Some home improvement projects require permits, and these permits often have expiration dates. Homeowners must keep permits in mind when projects start to stall, recognizing that they may need to reapply for permits if projects go unfinished for especially long periods of time. Stalled home improvement projects can be a nightmare. But homeowners can address such delays in various ways to get projects back on track.
Now Is The Time To Organize Your Home Garage
ects. Homeowners who park in their driveways may find that their garages have become crowded, cluttered spaces in which searching for tools can feel like scouring a haystack in search of a needle. Organizing a garage can create extra room in a home while affording homeowners the chance to protect their vehicles from the elements. Homeowners who want to turn their garages into something more than cluttered storage units can employ the following strategies to transform these largely overlooked areas into more valuable spaces. • Choose the right day. Garages tend to be separate from the rest of the home they’re a part of, meaning the only way to organize a garage is to first remove all items from it and into the driveway. Because items removed from the garage will be exposed to the elements, homeowners should choose a day that’s temperate and sunny to clean the space. If possible, homeowners should opt to organize their garages in late spring, summer or early fall when there are additional hours of daylight. This protects homeowners
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 5, 2017
Four
Fall Home Improvement
Don’t Neglect Your Lawn Care As The Season Turns Cooler
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allow more sunlight to reach the grass in the months ahead. • Remove leaves as they fall. Much like apple-picking and foliage, raking leaves is synonymous with fall. Some homeowners may wait to pick up a rake until all of the trees on their properties are bare. However, allowing fallen leaves to sit on the ground for extended periods of time can have an adverse effect on grass. Leaves left to sit on the lawn may ultimately suffocate the grass by forming an impenetrable wall that deprives the lawn of sunlight and oxygen. The result is dead grass and possibly even fungal disease. Leaves may not need to be raked every day, but homeowners should periodically rake and remove leaves from their grass, even if there are plenty left to fall still hanging on the trees. • Repair bald spots. Summer exacts a toll on lawns in various ways, and even homeowners with green thumbs may end up with a lawn filled with bald spots come September. Autumn is a great time to repair these bald spots.
pring and summer may be the seasons most often associated with landscaping and lawn care, but tending to lawns and gardens is a year-round job. If lawn and garden responsibilities dip considerably in winter, then fall is the last significant chance before the new year that homeowners will have to address the landscaping around their homes. Fall lawn care differs from spring and summer lawn care, even if the warm temperatures of summer linger into autumn. Homeowners who want their lawns to thrive year-round can take advantage of the welcoming weather of fall to address any existing or potential issues. • Keep mowing, but adjust how you mow. It’s important that homeowners continue to mow their lawns so long as grass is growing. But as fall transitions into winter, lower the blades so the grass is cut shorter while remaining mindful that no blade of grass should ever be trimmed by more than onethird. Lowering the blades will
Lawn repair mixes like Scotts® PatchMaster contain mulch, seed and fertilizer to repair bald spots, which can begin to recover in as little as seven days. Before applying such products, remove dead grass and loosen the top few inches of soil. Follow any additional manufacturer instructions as well. • Aerate the turf. Aerating reduces soil compacting, facilitating the delivery of fertilizer and water to a lawn’s roots. While many homeowners, and particularly those who take pride in tending to their own lawns, can successfully aerate their own turf, it’s best to first have soil tested so you know which amendments to add after the ground has been aerated. Gardening centers and home improvement stores sell soil testing kits that measure the pH of soil, but homeowners who want to test for nutrients or heavy metals in their soil may need to send their samples to a lab for further testing. Fall lawn care provides a great reason to spend some time in the yard before the arrival of winter.
Paving Stones An Attractive Addition To Any Residential Property
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aving stones can add beauty to walkways, driveways and backyard patios, providing that eye-catching finishing touch to a property while enhancing its curb 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 how-to tips courtesy of The Home Depot, DIY Network and Unilock. Get your supplies To begin a paver project, homeowners will need to stock up on some supplies they may not
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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 x 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
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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 One of the most important aspects of paver installation involves preparing the base. If you cut corners in this process, the finished results can be sloppy, weeds can grow through and/or stones may loosen. It’s essential to 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 See USE, page 10
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 5, 2017
Five
Fall Home Improvement Take Steps To Stay Safe In Your Home
Millwork Worth The Time And Effort
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njuries that occur around the home contribute to millions of medical visits and tens of thousands of fatalities each year. Falls account for the largest percentage of home accidents, with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting that around 30,000 fall-related fatalities occur each year in the United States. Many home accidents are entirely preventable when proper caution is exercised. As homeowners prepare for home-improvement projects, improving safety inside and outside the home should be a priority. 1. Improve lighting One of the easiest ways to reduce the risk of falls is to improve lighting around the home. The National Institutes of Health state that adequate lighting is important at entrances to the home, stairways, hallways, and other frequently traversed areas. Make sure lighting fixtures are using the highest wattage light bulb allowed. Artificial lighting sources become even more vital in fall and autumn, when natural light is less abundant in a home. In addition, install lighting outdoors by the front door, over the garage and where garbage pails are stored to facilitate safe passage.
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omeowners are discovering that architectural accents can go a long way toward improving both the look and value of their homes. When renovating a space, the term “millwork” may be mentioned by designers and contractors. While it might be a mystery to some, millwork can give rooms unique looks. Millwork refers to items traditionally made from raw lumber in a sawmill. Examples of millwork include crown molding, base trims, door frames, window cas-
2. Eliminate slick surfaces Improving traction around the house also can minimize falls. Throw rugs and runners can be made more secure with nonslip rubber backings. Bath rugs can reduce slipping on wet surfaces in the bathroom. Also, nonslip mats can be used inside of showers and bathtubs. Use shoe trays to reduce puddling from melting snow or rain runoff in entryways. Mop up spills quickly, and consider the use of matte- or textured-finished flooring to improve stability underfoot. Promptly remove snow and ice from driveways and walkways. For those who live in cold climates, heated concrete can help Have an Electrical Question? melt precipitation before it accuWe’re here to help mulates. 3. Make needed repairs Repair loose floorboards and pull carpet taut if it has started to stretch out. Address cracks outdoors and ensure that patio stones, bricks and pavers are secure and level to reduce tripping See DECLUTTER, page 6
ings, chair rails, and paneling. Cabinets may also classify as millwork. Used for both decoration and to increase the functionality of buildings, millwork comes in various types. Generally, millwork is fabricated in two ways. Stock millwork tends to be massproduced commercial items. These low-cost items are interchangeable and may be widely available at retailers, including home improvement centers. Custom millwork is a product that is custom designed and produced for individuals and special building projects. Sometimes referred to as “architectural millwork,” these pieces may be more ornate and made-to-order. Homeowners who want to match a focal point
of a home or an existing style often turn to custom millwork. Between the 15th and 18th centuries, ornate millwork was largely reserved for royalty or the very wealthy. Skilled carpenters would hand carve each piece, taking weeks to finish most projects. Eventually, millwork became more commonplace. Distinguishing one property from another today could mean turning back to the more distinctive designs of the past. Homeowners looking for ways to enhance their properties can embrace millwork to achieve a luxury feel without a sizable investment. The first step is to choose millwork that will coordinate with the era and style of a home’s existing decor. Ornate millwork in an overly modern house may seem out of place. The millwork should match the architectural theme of the home. Although some do-it-yourselfers can successfully install prefabricated millwork, for custom designs and a truly seamless look, it is important to have millwork professionally installed. IndividSee CONSIDER, page 10
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 5, 2017
Six
Fall Home Improvement Change Of Seasons Perfect Time To Change Your Decor
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ool weather often drives people to spend more hours indoors than they do during the warmer months. Autumn is a time to winterize gardens, put away lawn furniture and prepare for the holiday season. Autumn also provides the perfect opportunity to begin home interior projects. Many people decide to redecorate their homes to reflect each season. When temperatures change, it’s time to transition from the light colors and breezy fabrics symbolic of summer to
thicker, darker materials that evoke coziness. With some inspiration and a little know-how, any homeowner or apartment dweller can cozy up a space in time for fall and winter. • Invest in area rugs. While wood floors can look beautiful and work well with many different design styles, wood can feel chilly underfoot. Thick area rugs add warmth to a room and can help it look more lived-in. Area rugs also help a room appear more cohesive, coordinating with other colors in a space and pro-
viding a visual border. • Practice layering in rooms. An affordable and relatively easy way to make a room seem more cozy is to layer fabrics and other accents. Layers can include throws and blankets. Remove place mats from the dining room table and use them on accent tables or an ottoman in the living room. Table runners also can add a splash of color to the top of bedroom dressers. • Play with texture. Look for fabrics that boast texture and can add a tactile feel to spaces. When
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used on throw pillows or small accents, faux fur can create that cozy cabin feel. Draperies made from nubby fabrics or those with grooves and ridges can add dimension to a room as well. Even a lampshade made of an unusual fabric, such as a waffle-patterned material, can add a little depth and warmth to a space. • Reevaluate your lighting. Lighting a space is more than just flipping on a switch. Finding the right balance of lighting fixtures can instantly transform the feel of a room. Create more warmth and a cozy feel by switching out bulbs from cooler shades to warmer ones — those that give off yellow and pink hues rather than cool blues. Accent lighting helps establish a comfortable space for curling up and reading a good book. Spot lighting, such as fixtures that are trained on artwork or inside of a curio or china cabinet, also can set a more welcoming mood. • Install a bookshelf and start a book collection. Piles and stacked books can add warmth to any space. Books evoke the hallowed halls of schools and quiet nooks in the library. Fill shelves with books interspersed with additional design accents, and you will instantly make a room feel more inviting.
A classic bookshelf can help transform a room into a cozy reading nook • Choose dark paint. Do not feel nervous about incorporating deeper shades in rooms. Dark colors give rooms a more enclosed feel than lighter colors, and that can create a warm and cozy feeling. This works particularly well in larger spaces that feel vast and empty. If you’re scared to paint all of your walls, try a darker shade below a chair rail or just paint one accent wall. • Add architectural elements. Think about adding rich moldings to crown the ceilings or to frame doorways. If you have the space for a nook, create a window seat beneath a picture window or add a bench and cushions in a corner for a nice escape spot. Use the colder weather as an opportunity to reinvent some of the rooms in your home. With paint, texture, fabric, lighting, and more, rooms can be quickly transformed into cozy respites from the cold.
Declutter And Invest In Helpful Devices
continued from page 5
hazards. Fix areas of the landscape where water may pool and freeze, creating potential hazards. 4. Declutter all spaces Remove unnecessary items and furniture from rooms to free up more space to get around. Be sure there are no obstructions in walkways, entryways and near doors. Keep staircases clear at all times. 5. Invest in assistive devices Handrails, grab bars, nonslip stair treads, and many other devices can make homes safer for people of all ages and abilities. Outfit cabinets and closets with organizers that put frequently used items within easy reach. A sturdy step stool can reduce the risk of injury while reaching for items stored on high shelves. Taking measures to reduce the risk of falling around the home is a worthwhile home improvement project.
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 5, 2017
Seven
Fall Home Improvement Take Time To Consider Kitchen Reno
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omeowners looking to renovate often see room for improvement in their kitchens and bathrooms. The National Association of Home Builder’s Remodeling Market Index Survey, which measures conditions in the remodeling market, indicates that, in 2015, the two most common remodeling jobs were bathroom remodels (81 percent) and kitchen remodels (79 percent). According to HGTV and Statistics Brain, a new kitchen remodel for a kitchen measuring 12 by 12 feet may cost homeowners anywhere from $17,000 to $37,000. Before investing so much into their remodeling projects, homeowners should think carefully about the features that will improve their time spent at home. When planning a kitchen renovation, homeowners may want to consider the following upgrades to make the room more enjoyable while improving its functionality.
Remodel Project Will Be Time Well Spent
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ccording to a survey of its users, the home improvement resource HomeAdvisor found that the average kitchen remodeling project took six weeks to complete. While some homeowners might be turned off by the prospect of having little or no access to their kitchens for more than a month, HomeAdvisor warns that the length of time it takes to complete a kitchen remodeling project depends on a host of factors, including the scope of the project. Some homeowners reported to HomeAdvisor that their projects lasted for several months, though those projects required extensive work, including moving walls and rearranging plumbing. Others who only replaced the flooring and countertops in their kitchens were back in business in just three weeks. Homeowners should always receive a projected completion date when soliciting estimates from contractors. But it’s also important that homeowners plan for unforeseen problems that may arise during the project, thereby extending the length of time necessary to complete it.
Small changes can go a long way to improving the look of any home’s kitchen Oversized sink Although high-efficiency dishwashers are popular, deep sinks to soak soup pots or woks are still useful. Deep sinks may be preferable to double sinks, especially for homeowners who use lots of kitchen tools when preparing meals. Soft-closing hinges When replacing cabinets (or just the hardware), consider installing soft-closing hinges and slides on doors and drawers. These devices eliminate slamming and caught fingers, reducing noise and injuries in the kitchen. Foot-pedal water operation When outfitting a sink, think about foot controls, which are popular in doctors’ offices and hospitals. Turning on the water with the tap of a foot can reduce the transfer of pathogens to faucets from hands during food preparation. These pedals also free up hands for other tasks.
Bottom’s up People likely spend more time raiding the refrigerator than the freezer on any given day. Rather than having to bend down to seek out that favorite flavor of Greek yogurt, choose a model with the fridge on top and freezer on the bottom, especially if anyone in the household has mobility issues. When shopping for refrigerators, French-door style units may offer even more access, making it easy for homeowners to slide fruit trays, sheet cakes and other large items into the fridge. Extra lighting A kitchen should be a balance of form and function. A combination of overhead lighting, decorative lighting and task lighting can illuminate all areas of the space effectively. Appliance garages Architectural and design resource Houzz says that appliance garages are popular kitchen additions, too. Set at countertop level, these cabinets allow people to keep small appliances plugged in but tucked neatly behind closed doors. Kitchen remodels are a sizable investment, and renovations can be customized to make the kitchen more hospitable for all in residence.
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 5, 2017
Eight
Fall Home Improvement Always Remember: Expect The Unexpected When Remodeling
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ccording to projections released in 2015 by Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies, a growing number of people in the United States planned to renovate their homes in 2016. The report estimated that spending on remodeling and repairs in 2016 would climb 8.6 percent to $310 billion, a figure that is close to the peak reached in 2006. While it is still too soon to tabulate all of the figures from 2016, a quick glance at the data indicates renovations have increased across the country. And one only need travel through communities to see a greater number of contractors and homeowners working on homes. Tackling any renovation project is an exercise in patience. Renovations can impede on daily activities and cause a certain level of upheaval in homeowners’ lives. Homeowners planning renovations also may find that they must have some wiggle room when it comes to both their budgets and their expectations. Remodeling, particularly with
regard to older homes, may unveil unforeseen issues that only arise in the face of the renovation. So what can homeowners expect during a renovation? The following are a few issues that might arise during home improvement projects. • Dirt and noise: Homeowners can count on dust, debris and noise throughout the renovation process. Dust appears when walls come down or go up, and construction teams typically erect temporary walls or tarps to contain the debris. Air filtering systems also can limit dust particles. Noise is unavoidable. If it becomes troublesome, arrange to be outside of the home when the bulk of the construction is taking place. • Delays or schedule changes: Even the best contractors cannot control every aspect of the job. They rely on subcontractors and vendors to do portions of the work. Materials may not always arrive on time, or they may fall short of homeowners’ expectations. This can push back the project
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lenty of things heat up when the temperature drops, including the risk for fire hazards. Fireplaces, stoves, heating systems, candles, and even electric lights are used more often during the winter than any other time of year, so it makes sense that the risk of home fires increases when the mercury drops. The U.S. Fire Administration says 905 people die in winter home fires each year. Cooking is the leading cause of all home fires and contributes to around $2 billion in property loss each year. Understanding potential risks and exercising caution can help homeowners protect themselves, their families and their homes from fire. Cooking Home heating fires peak between the hours of 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., when many people are home preparing dinner. The following steps, courtesy of the American Red Cross, can improve safety in the kitchen and reduce the likelihood of a home fire. • Never leave cooking food unattended, as it can take just seconds for fires to ignite. • Keep anything that can catch fire away from the stove or other appliances that generate heat. • Clean regularly to prevent grease buildup. • Make sure appliances are turned off before leaving the room or going to bed. See FIRES, page 10
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 5, 2017
Nine
Fall Home Improvement Working With Contractors Can Prevent DIY-Related Headaches
T
he DIY movement has inspired many homeowners to tackle home repair and remodeling projects on their own. DIY projects can be rewarding, and many homeowners who have embraced the DIY movement have discovered talents they never before knew they had. But no matter how simple popular home renovation television shows make remodeling projects appear, homeowners should know that such undertakings are far more difficult than they appear on television. Homeowners who overestimate their abilities and the time they have to complete projects can cost themselves substantial amounts of money. In fact, there are a variety of reasons homeowners might want to work with professional contractors when tackling home improvement projects.
Going it alone can cause more problems in the long run Experience A trial and error approach can work with various projects and problems. But applying such an approach to home improvement projects is risky and potentially dangerous, not to mention costly.
but that’s not necessarily true of home improvement projects. Labor costs typically account for a substantial amount of professionally contracted projects, but homeowners can cut those costs by volunteering to do some of the simpler tasks themselves. In addition, contractors often purchase materials at a much lower cost than individual homeowners because contractors buy in bulk. So while labor costs might be lower on DIY projects, the cost of materials can offset those savings.
Experienced professional contractors with strong track records (seek recommendations from friends or neighbors) won’t have to go through trial and error and are therefore more likely than DIYers to complete a project on time and on budget. Inspiration One oft-overlooked benefit of working with professional con-
tractors is the likelihood that they can draw up ideas for projects that homeowners might otherwise never have thought up on their own. Homeowners without specific ideas in mind can ask contractors to come up with various scenarios before committing to a particular one. Veteran contractors can draw on years of experience to create designs that DIYers might be in-
Garage Sale A Good Way To Clear Out Equipment continued from page 3
from having to work in the dark should the job take longer than they initially anticipated. • Discard or donate duplicate items. Duplicate items are some of the main culprits behind cluttered garages. As garages gradually become more cluttered, homeowners may buy tools they already have simply because they cannot find their original tools. When organizing the garage, create separate piles for duplicate tools, placing still-useful items in a pile that can be donated to neighbors, local charities or organizations and another pile for old tools that are no longer useful. • Host a garage sale. Homeowners who want to organize their garages and make a buck at the same time can host garage sales. Make only those items that are still functional available for purchase, and let neighbors and bargain hunters do the bulk of your organization work for you. • Designate areas of the garage for certain items. Once the items that won’t be going back into the garage have been sold, donated or discarded, organize the garage by designating areas for certain items, making sure to separate items that can pose safety risks. For example, store kids’ bicycles
and outdoor toys in a corner of the garage that is opposite the corner where potentially dangerous items such as power tools and gas cans will be stored. Keep the center of the garage open for vehicles. • Periodically park cars in the garage. Homeowners who are comfortable parking their vehicles in their driveways can improve their chances of maintain-
ing organized garages over the long haul by periodically parking in the garage. Doing so not only prevents the gradual buildup of clutter that can slowly take over a garage, but also protects homeowners’ automotive investments. Maintaining an organized garage can help homeowners make more practical use of the space in their homes, and help make home repairs a smooth operation.
HEATING • AIR CONDITIONING • SALES & SERVICE
capable of coming up with and/ or incapable of seeing through to completion. Cost Conventional wisdom suggests it’s less expensive to do something yourself than to hire someone else to do it for you,
Resale value Many homeowners renovate their homes with eyes on improving the resale value of those homes. But if homeowners want to showcase a newly remodeled kitchen when selling their homes, they should be prepared for prospective buyers to ask who worked on the project. Fearing potential problems down the road, some buyers might be put off by homes that were remodeled by DIYers and not professional contractors. Renovating a home on your own can be a rewarding project for homeowners. But it’s important that homeowners recognize the many benefits of working with professional contractors before making any final decisions with regard to who will tackle their next project.
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 5, 2017
Ten
Fall Home Improvement Ways To Trick-Or-Treat Outside Traditional Neighborhoods
I
f someone were commissioned to paint a picture of Halloween bliss, it would probably showcase a neighborhood full of children ringing doorbells and gathering treats. Millions of children and adults participate in the annual ritual of trick-or-treating. For urban and suburban children, close-by neighbors make it quite easy to fill up sacks of candy. However, people who live in rural areas — where homes may be miles away from one another — may find that traditional trick-or-treating poses a challenge. For kids who live by farmland or off country roads, trickor-treating may not be a stroll through a well-lit area with sidewalks and welcoming neighbors with open doors. Such youngsters
may have to traverse dark roads and dodge motorists who do not expect people to be walking on the shoulder. So what is a rural kid, or any child whose resides in an area that is not conducive to trick-ortreating, to do? • Hit the road. Plan a road trip to a neighborhood where trickor-treating is encouraged in full force and is safe and inviting. Friends or family members may live in such neighborhoods and can host “out-of-town” trick-ortreaters. Others who are choosing a town off a map may want to try an app called Nextdoor. It is a free and private social media site for neighbors that employs a Treat Map. Halloween fans can see exactly which houses are trickor-treat friendly. In 2014, Zillow
issued a list of the 20 best neighborhoods for trick-or-treating as well. • Head to a shopping center. While it may not be the same as going door-to-door, rural residents can trick-or-treat at nearby shopping centers. Many shopping centers and malls host area children and dispense treats. • Organize a trunk-or-treat. Trunk-or-treat events involve various participants parking in a community lot and opening their trunks or truck hatches to crowds of trick-or-treaters. Often these events are hosted by churches, schools or organized clubs. Trick-or-treating can be challenging for kids growing up in rural areas. But with a little ingenuity, such youngsters can secure their Halloween bounty as well.
Fires Caused By Heating Units And Electrical Problems Are Common Occurrences continued from page 8
Heating The National Fire Protection Association warns that heating is the second leading cause of home fires, deaths and injuries in the United States. The NFPA offers these safety guidelines.
• Install heating appliances according to manufacturers’ instructions or have a professional do the installation. • Fuel-burning equipment needs to vent to the outside. • Never use an oven to heat a home. • Keep anything that can burn
away from heating equipment, including portable space heaters. • Clean and inspect heating appliances regularly. • Turn off portable heaters when leaving the room or going to bed. Electric The National Safety Council estimates that between 600 and 1,000 people die each year from
electrocution. Electricity also can contribute to home fires. The Energy Education Council offers these safety suggestions. • Never force plugs into outlets. • Check that cords are not frayed or cracked. Do not run cords under carpets or place them in high-traffic areas. • Use extension cords only on a temporary basis. • Make sure light bulbs are the
proper wattage for fixtures. • Install ground fault circuit interrupters in kitchens, baths, laundry rooms, and elsewhere, making sure to test them regularly. • Check periodically for loose wall receptacles and loose wires. Listen for popping or sizzling sounds behind walls. Home fires are no joke and can be prevented with simple safety checks.
Consider Eco-Friendly Ways To Install Your Millwork continued from page 5
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uals should research carpenters who specialize in millwork and verify their license and reputation through a consumer protection agency. Popular types of millwork include crown molding, corbels,
wainscotting, and custom bookcases. Homeowners may not realize that millwork can be added to spaces of all sizes to give them an air of sophistication. Although millwork was traditionally formed from hardwoods, eco-friendly homeowners can
now find millwork crafted from synthetic materials and even reclaimed woods. Millwork can add that special touch to the interior or exterior of a home. Learn more by visiting www. worldmillworkalliance.com.
Use String And Restraints To Design Your Pavers Project continued from page 4
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
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 5, 2017
Eleven
Fall Home Improvement Turn Your Bedroom Into A Sleep-Friendly Space
I
nsufficient sleep causes more problems than many people may know. Fatigue after a poor night’s sleep might seem like an inconvenience that can be easily rectified, but the long-term effects of insufficient sleep are significant. According to the National Sleep Foundation, researchers have found a link between insufficient sleep and an elevated risk for type 2 diabetes. In one such study exploring that potential link, researchers asked healthy adults to sleep just four hours per night for six nights. At the conclusion of that period, participants’ ability to break down glucose had decreased by an average of 40 percent and reached levels that are consistent with those of older adults at risk for diabetes. Insufficient sleep may be linked to any of a host of factors, including one’s bedroom environment. An environment that promotes restful sleep can help people suffering from insomnia or restlessness improve the quality of their sleep. The NSF offers the follow-
ing tips to make bedrooms more conducive to sleep. • Set the right temperature. The NSF notes that research indicates a bedroom temperature of roughly 65 F makes for the best sleep. Human beings’ body temperatures rise and fall throughout the day, reaching their lowest level around 5 a.m. each day before slowly climbing as morning begins. A room that is too warm overnight may interfere with this natural dip, leading to restlessness. If necessary, install a programmable thermostat in the bedroom so the temperature in the room remains steady and in line with your body’s natural temperature fluctuations. • Address allergens. Some people may trace their sleeping difficulties to allergies. Dust and pollen in the bedroom can make for a disruptive night’s sleep. Wash bedding once per week in hot water if dust mites are proving problematic. If pillows cannot be washed, dry them using high heat to kill dust mites. In addition, cover the mattress in a mattress protector that guards against al-
lergens and dust mites. If pollen is finding its way into the bedroom, always keep bedroom windows closed during allergy season. • Use a white noise machine. Noise is another potential contributor to poor sleep. The NSF notes that some people may have their sleep interrupted by noise even if they don’t know it. White noise machines are often used to help infants sleep, but such ma-
Don’t Just Throw Those Carved Pumpkins Away
J
ack-o’-lanterns and other • Keep it out of the elements. • Scrape the insides of the carved pumpkin designs pumpkin thoroughly. Any moist Store carved pumpkins in a cool, are frequently the center- bits inside the pumpkin will mold dry place. This will help slow pieces of Halloween festiviquickly. The pumpkin carv- down the rotting process for ties. The twinkling lights ing experts at Pumpkin pumpkins exposed to outdoor and orange glow of Masters recommend fungi, other microbes and warm jack-o’-lanterns can scraping as much of sunlight. add ambiance to • Use an artificial light source. the “guts” out as any autumn event. possible, leaving Reduce the heat inside of the The trouble with about a one-inch pumpkin and encourage hydracarving pumpthickness of the tion by selecting a battery-powkins is that most wall of the pump- ered light instead of a lit candle to people want to illuminate the carving. kin. do it right away, • Skip the carving. Once pump• Coat the only to discover pumpkin. Pres- kin skin is compromised, mitheir pumpkins ervation methods crobes can enter. In lieu of carvwilt and decay long may aim to keep the ing, paint or decorate pumpkins before Halloween. pumpkin hydrated in other ways if you want them to Nothing ruins Haland inhibit mold and stay fresh for a long time. Glow in loween more than visiting other microbial growth. the dark paint can help pumpkins a home to trick-or-treat and not Commercially sold pumpkin stand out at night. getting candy. Equally disap- preservation products, such as Carved pumpkins may last a pointing is a sad pumpkin display Pumpkin Fresh®, hold up well. week or two, while uncut pumpwithering away on a front porch. Soaking and spraying carved kins can last for a month or more. Even though all pumpkins will pumpkins with a bleach-and- Keeping pumpkins hydrated and eventually rot, certain tips can water solution also seems to pre- mold-free will prolong H o n e s t your deOpen Sunday keep carvings from collapsing serve designs. signs. D e p e n d a b l e 10:00 - 3:00 S e r v i c e too soon. 2016 • Choose a sturdy pumpkin. InMyth #1 H o n e s t Open Sunday spect the pumpkin of your“We choos2015 will install your whole house for $39.” Do you really believe D e p e n d a b l e 10:00 3:00 ing carefully, looking for that’s gouges, S e r v i c e 2 0 1 6 all they are charging? It’s a shell game! They increase the spots and holes. Even price a small MythHardwood #1 pad to cover Hardwood Hardwood of the carpet and the $39 “charge” of installation. 2014 blemish can quickly expand into 2015 “We will install your whole house for $39.” Do you really believe Myth #2 that’s all they are charging? It’s a shell game! They increase the a mushy mess. Select pumpkins “Buy one roomprice of carpet and get twotorooms free.” Anotherof shell of the carpet and pad cover the $39 “charge” installation. 22 0 1041 3 with even color and firm flesh, game, probablyMyth the#2most outrageous lie. NothingHardwood is free! Who’s Expert and make sure that the pumpkin 2013 paying for that “Buy ad?one room of carpet and get two rooms free.” Another shell 2012 Refinishing doesn’t feel tender when you game, probably the most outrageous lie. Nothing ison free!Sale Who’s Pre-Finished Myth #3 paying for that ad? push on the skin. Red Oak 2012 Mullican Engineered NOW! “Buy one roomMyth of carpet and I’ll do your whole neighborhood for 3/4#3x 2 1/2” 2011 • Visit local pumpkin stands. $ Hardwood 3/8 x 5” free.” I just threw in because “they” believe “you” for S/F “Buythat one room of carpetevidently and I’ll do your whole neighborhood Starting at 2011 Pumpkins that have been shipped free.” I just threw that inNatural because&evidently “they” believe “you” will believe anything! NOW! Stains Installed miles and miles in hot cargo will$believe 2010 $ 7.29anything! S/F Somerset Maple - 3/4 x 4” 2010 S/F trucks may be overly ripened or Always a Quality, Clean, Honest and Affordable Installation Always aVolume Quality, Clean, and Affordable Installation & Honest Contractor Discounts battered. Pumpkins that were Hours: Mon.,Wed., Tues., Wed., Fri. 10-6. Thurs. 10-6:30. Sat. Hours: Mon., Tues., Fri. 10-6. Thurs. 10-6:30. Sat.10-3 10-3 grown nearby may be fresher. 907 Meriden-Wtby Tpk.322) (Rt. 322) (860) 621-4295 Plus, buying pumpkins 907locally Meriden-Wtby Tpk. (Rt. Plantsville, CT 06479 www.PetitsStoreofFloors.com supports local farmers. Plantsville, CTfrom 06479 Volume & Contractor Discounts Available! Across McDonald’s www.PetitsStoreofFloors.com
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chines can be just as effective at helping adults. The NSF notes that the constant ambient sound created by white noise machines masks activity both inside and outside the house, helping men and women enjoy more restful sleep. • Draw blinds, shades or curtains. Waking up to sunlight each day might be nice, but that morning sunlight may be interrupting
your sleep. Early morning rays from the sun might be triggering your body to wake up before it’s had adequate rest, so make sure blinds, shades and curtains are drawn before going to bed at night so you are not woken up prematurely in the morning. Making bedrooms more conducive to sleep is one way men and women can improve the quality of their nightly sleep.
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 5, 2017
Twelve
2 0 1 7 / 2 0 1 8
S E A S O N
November 2, 2017
Lesson Plans to Late Night 2:00pm & 7:30pm
Teacher-turned-comic Lucas Bohn combines stand-up comedy with a hilarious slideshow featuring student work straight from his classrooms and beyond. With his charming Southern sense of humor, Lucas shares his wit, wisdom and wacky point of view for a laugh-out-loud comedy experience.
October 20, 2017
Songs of the Grand Ole Opry 2:00pm & 7:30pm
An authentic tribute to the classics that still echo in the Grand Ole Opry’s Ryman Auditorium, songs by country legends such as Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash & June Carter, Willie Nelson, George & Tammy, Merle Haggard, Loretta Lynn and others. Performed live by the Truck Stop Troubadours with Special Guest Vicky St Pierre.
November 11, 2017
Mutts Gone Nuts 2:00pm & 7:30pm
Disorderly duo, Scott and Joan Houghton and their hilarious pack of pooches have created a comedy dog thrill show like no other. Expect the unexpected in this top-notch presentation that includes: incredible high flying frisbee dogs, tightwire dogs, dancing dogs, magic dogs and of course, the one and only . . . Sammie the Talking Dog! Co-sponsors: CT Home Automation and Knell’s Carpet Service
November 17, 2017
Running On Empty
Celebrating the Music of Jackson Browne
2:00pm & 7:30pm
The stellar ensemble Running On Empty features studio and concert tour veterans who have worked with major recording acts. With one female and four male vocalists, Running on Empty can re-create the exquisite vocal harmonies that were unique to the Laurel Canyon sound.
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