Fall Home Improvement 2016 by Cheshire Herald

FALL

home

improvement special section

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, October 6, 2016

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 6, 2016

Two

FALL

IMPROVEMENT

Put These Improvement Projects On Your Fall To-Do List

omeowners know that maintaining a home can be a year-round job. No home is immune to wear and tear, and homeowners who want to protect their real estate investments should try to stay two steps ahead to ensure their homes do not succumb to the elements or become outdated and unappealing to prospective buyers. Fall has become a season that’s synonymous with home improvement, but homeowners need not wait until the leaves begin changing colors to start planning their next projects. The following are a few items homeowners can add to their fall home improvement to-do lists. Roof inspection Less precipitation tends to fall during the warmer months than during the late fall and winter. As a result, homeowners may not be aware of leaky roofs until autumn has come and gone. But waiting until winter to inspect the roof can prove disastrous, as weather conditions will not

Choose a windy autumn day to search for window and doorway drafts. be conducive to inspection and increased precipitation may result in potentially costly damage. Leaky roofs can be easily identiﬁed by looking for water stains on interior ceilings. Once you see a stain, you can climb onto the roof to identify the location of the leak and ﬁx it before winter rains and snowfall turn the problem into something much larger. Inspect your ceilings for signs of leaking after a strong rainfall, and then address any leaks immediately. Gutter cleaning While some homeowners prefer to delay their gutter cleaning projects until late fall, those whose homes are surrounded by trees may need to schedule two

such projects. Gutters clogged with leaves and other debris can cause serious roof damage, and that damage can extend all the way inside a home. In addition, clogged gutters make great nesting areas for insects or critters. Always stand on a ladder when cleaning gutters, wearing gloves to remove items by hand and dropping leaves and debris into a trash can below. Standing on the roof and leaning over gutters greatly increases your risk of injury. If the gutters are clear when you first examine them in early fall, you can wait until later in the season to give them a complete and thorough cleaning. Once you have finished clearing the gutters, you can use a hose to run water through them and the downspouts to confirm everything is functioning properly.

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Window and doorway inspection Before temperatures start dropping once again, homeowners will want to inspect their windows and doorways for leaks. Over time, cracks can develop around windows and doorways, and while such cracks are rarely noticeable when the weather outside is warm, they can be quite obvious and very costly if they remain unsealed come the start of winter. Cold air can enter a home through cracks around windows and doorways, and many homeowners who don’t suspect leaks may respond by turning up the thermostats in their homes. That can prove quite expensive over a full winter. Choose a windy autumn day to place a hand by windows and external doorways

in your home to see if you can feel drafts. If you can, seal these cracks as soon as possible. Patio cleanup Patios are popular hangouts during spring and summer, and that can result in a lot of wear and tear. Once you store patio furniture for the winter, inspect your entire patio to determine if it needs any refurbishing. While certain patio projects may be best left for spring, you can still clean any stained areas around the grill and look for cracks in the sidewalk that need to be addressed. Preparing for fall home improvement projects ahead of time can help homeowners complete projects in a timely manner and ensures they won’t be forced to brave the winter elements when refurbishing their homes.

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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 6, 2016

FALL

Three

IMPROVEMENT

Here’s What To Look For When Inspecting Roof

old weather can be tough on a home, and perhaps no part of a home is more vulnerable to harsh winter weather than its roof. Fallen snow can equate to several pounds of pressure placed on a residential roof. Roofs do not often collapse under heavy snowfall. But adverse winter weather conditions can compromise roofs in other ways. Water leakage and damage to the roof’s interior are

just two of the potentially problematic issues that can arise when roofs are battered by cold, blustery weather. That’s why many home improvement specialists advise homeowners to conduct roof inspections prior to the start of winter. Many homeowners can conduct their own cursory roof inspections, but they may not know exactly what to look for. The National Rooﬁng Contractors As-

sociation says that there are certain key areas to inspect that may reveal some telltale signs of roof damage. • Curled, cracked or missing shingles may prove troublesome. Inclement weather can test the strength of even the most durable roofs. Even though many roofs are designed to last up to 30 years, some may need to be replaced early, particularly when they have been exposed to harsh weather

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• Gutters and downspouts should be in good condition. A roof is the sum of its parts, and that includes downspouts and gutters. If the gutters are clogged or damaged, they cannot direct water away from the house properly. Snow, leaves and other debris needs to be cleared from gutters to help them function at optimal capacity. • Animals and insects can cause damage, too. It’s not just poor weather that homeowners need to consider with regard to roof damage. Boring insects and animals may cause problems with roofs as well. A roof inspection may shed light on potential pest problems. Holes or nesting materials may indicate that an animal or animals are using the attic as a shelter from the elements. Get to the root of issues with your home’s roof before they become bigger problems once winter arrives. A thorough inspection can reveal problems that may prove costly if ignored.

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over a period of years. Individual shingles can be replaced as spot treatments, but if the damage is widespread, a new roof may be necessary. • Attic leaks or water elsewhere might signal issues with the roof. Figure out if water inside the home is coming from the roof. Water stains do not always indicate problems with the roofing, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. • Look for protective granules wearing off. If gutters are filled with the sandy granular material that coats roofing shingles, that may be a sign of an aging or damaged roof. • Inspect flashing. Professional roofers can recognize properly installed flashing, the material that connects the roof to other parts of the house that adjoin the roof, like skylights or a chimneys. Poorly installed flashing can cause leaks. Stains that appear below chimneys or near attic windows may indicate new flashing, and not new shingles, is needed.

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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 6, 2016

Four

FALL

IMPROVEMENT

Some Tree Pruning Can Be Done By Homeowners

rees may require pruning for a variety reasons. Storms may have damaged branches, necessitating a pruning. In other instances, trees may have outgrown their yards, overpowering the landscape. Autumn and winter, when trees largely go dormant and fallen leaves make it easier to see the branches beneath, may be prime times to prune. Pruning during the dormant period also minimizes sap loss and stress to the tree, and can help cut down on the growth of fungi. In addition, insects are less likely to be problematic during the colder months of the year. Trimming and pruning can be handled by do-it-yourselfers if the branches are smaller and more manageable. Practice on thinner branches before moving on to thicker ones, which may require extra help. Branches may be heavy, and it takes a guided hand to ensure the branches fall in a safe manner so they do not cause damage or injury. Branches also need to be trimmed properly to facilitate

good healing. Trees will form a callus bark covering over cuts to keep out disease and decay, much as a scab forms over a person’s wound. Damaging the bark on a tree while pruning may interfere with that process, so do-it-yourselfers need to take the time to prune correctly. According to Danny Lipford, home improvement expert and host of the radio program “Today’s Homeowner,” larger limbs may require three cuts instead of one. The first cut is a small notch in the bottom of the limb, around two to three feet from the trunk and about one-quarter of the way through. This helps prevent the bark from splitting. A relief cut is then made a few inches away from the notch cut, and goes all the way through. This removes the weight of the branch so that the final cut can be made without the branch splitting and falling. The final cut is made right where the limb extrudes from the branch collar, or the swollen bump that then forms into the tree limb. Follow the slant of the branch collar when making the cut. Smaller or

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thinner branches may not require the same three steps, but every effort should be made to reduce injury to the tree. When deciding how much to prune, less is usually more. All pruning can put some level of stress on the tree and increase its vulnerability to disease and insect infestation. A good rule of thumb is to never prune more than 25 percent of the crown. According to experts at TreeHelp.com, living branches should comprise at least two-thirds the height of the tree. In some instances, the rules may need to be bent if trees are interfering with utility lines or to meet community laws. However, always prune minimally to avoid damaging the tree. The right tools also make the job safer and easier. Use a pole pruner and lopper, rope saws, folding pruner, and a bucksaw. A chainsaw can be used in some

instances, especially when pruning larger limbs. Always disinfect pruning tools after you’re done to prevent the spread of disease to other trees.

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ome improvement projects range from major construction overhauls like bathroom remodeling jobs to smaller renovations that may entail something as minor as painting the walls. Smaller projects can often be conquered in a typical weekend but still provide a strong sense of accomplishment. The following are ﬁve projects

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tailor-made for weekend warriors. 1. Improve storage in the entryway. Home entryways are the first places many people drop mail, shed their shoes and toss their keys upon arriving home. As a result, entryways can quickly be overrun with clutter. Storage solutions can include putting in a desk or hutch with baskets underneath to store umbrellas and backpacks. Or hang a coat rack and create a shoe rack to store shoes until the time comes to leave the house once again. 2. Shed new light. Add some design appeal to your home by replacing an old lighting fixture with something more modern. Such a task is relatively easy, and you need not possess the skills of a trained electrician. 3. Add molding for a finishing touch. Dress up spaces with crown molding or a decorative chair rail that goes around a room. You can even use molding to frame new or existing artwork. Find a molding style that complements the architectural style. 4. Update hardware in the bath and kitchen. Switch the handles, draw pulls and knobs on cabinetry with new hardware. The time commitment is practically nil, but you might just give rooms a whole new feel. See PREP, page 6

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 6, 2016

FALL

Five

IMPROVEMENT

Easy Tips To Get The Most Energy Out Of Your House

hile new homes are being built to be more energy efﬁcient than ever before, thanks to a growing green building movement and increasingly strict building codes, the age of existing dwellings continues to present challenges. More than 40 percent of the housing stock in the United States was built before 1969 and simply wouldn’t stand up to today’s standards. Yet, much can be done to help homeowners improve their building envelope to reduce energy use and increase efﬁciency. Improving your home’s energy

Don’t Ignore Potential Plumbing Problems

efficiency can help save money, keep you more comfortable, reduce pollution, and prevent global warming. Try these five simple measures to maximize the energy efficiency of your home: 1. Seal cracks and gaps around your home’s windows, doors, and vents. These can be a considerable source of energy loss, allowing conditioned air to escape and unconditioned air to infiltrate your home, placing stress on your furnace and air conditioner in the process. An easy DIY solution is to caulk around windows, doors, and vents, and install or replace worn weatherstripping. An average home loses up to 30 percent of its energy through air leaks, so sealing your home is a worthwhile exercise. 2. Top up or replace old insulation in your attic. A poorly insulated attic is a primary source of energy loss. Also, over time, some types of insulation can settle and compact, allowing heat to escape through gaps. Experts recommend installing a dimension-

ally stable batt insulation like a Roxul product called Comfortbatt. Aim for an r-value of at least R-50, or a depth of roughly 16 inches. 3. Insulate basement headers. Uninsulated basement headers are common, especially in older homes. They can act as a gateway for heated air to escape. Fixing the problem is fast and easy. Simply cut Comfortbatt stone wool insulation to fit the cavity and compress into place. Doing this throughout your basement will prevent heat loss and can potentially save hundreds of dollars each year. 4. Switch to LED light bulbs. Some LED light bulbs have a lifespan of up to 10 years, and are 80 to 90 percent more efficient than incandescent bulbs. They are generally more environmentally friendly than CFLs and safer, too, since they produce less heat. The return on investment is excellent, as LED bulbs often pay for themselves through energy savings within the first year. 5. Consider a home energy audit. This will help you identify and target specific problematic areas of energy loss. A professional home energy audit will also provide a list of recommended solutions to help you maximize your energy-efficiency strategy.

Add More Value To Your Home

o homeowner wants to be confronted with plumbing problems, which many associate with costly repairs and water damage. But many plumbing problems are preventable if homeowners take the time to learn about them and make the effort to nip them in the bud before they become something major. • Clogged kitchen sink: Kitchen sinks get used quite a bit in the average home, and what makes its way down the sinks can contribute to plumbing problems. Avoid pouring gravy, grease, cooking oil, or fat down the kitchen sink, as these substances can cling to the pipes and lead to a backed up sink and a potentially messy situation. Discard thick liquids and sauces in the trash can instead of the sink. Periodically turn the faucet on as hot as it can See MAKE, page 14

Upgrade To Energy-Efﬁcient Appliances This Season

ome improvement projects often involve remodeling. But homeowners can improve their homes without ever picking up a hammer. Upgrading a home’s appliances with products that are more ecofriendly can add value to a home and make the home more attractive to buyers who want their homes to look good and pay dividends for the environment. The United States Department of Energy says the average American family spends about $2,200 each year for energy costs, and large, inefﬁcient appliances no doubt contribute heavily to those expenditures. Appliances that are several years old, including refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, and even ovens, may no longer meet the stringent energy-saving speciﬁcations required of new items. That means such appliances are negatively affecting the environment and their owners’ bottom lines. See RESEARCH, page 13

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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 6, 2016

Six

FALL

IMPROVEMENT

Protect Yourself As You Begin Work

ome renovation projects vary in scope. Something as simple as repainting a bedroom counts as a renovation project, as does a full kitchen remodel. But no matter how big or small a project, homeowners’ top priority should always be safety. Before beginning a project, make a list of possible hazards and how to avoid them. Here are some potential dangers that can spring up. •Asbestos: Many homes built when asbestos was legal still contain asbestos materials. Asbestos has been used in many applications, such as in ceiling materials, insulation, siding, and more. That’s because asbestos is flame retardant and serves as an effective and inexpensive insulator. However, asbestos fibers released into the air during renovations can cause respiratory problems and even lead to lung cancer. Asbestos needs to be removed under specific guidelines

and disposed of properly. Disposal typically requires hiring a professional service. •Dust and dirt: Sanding, sawing, welding, and other home renovation tasks can cast debris into the air. Ventilation may be needed to maintain clean, breathable air. Ventilation can also shuttle any harmful fumes generated from construction materials outside of the home. Do-it-yourselfers should wear masks and eye protection to guard themselves against debris. •Electrical lines: All homes may not have been built in adherence to modern-day codes. Electric lines can be discovered where

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they are least expected. When doing demolition or drilling/nailing into walls, it’s not uncommon to come across electrical wires. Extra caution needs to be taken, and an electrician should be consulted if the wires need to be relocated. •Chemicals: Chemicals, such as sealants, cleaners, lubricants, and fuel, may be used during renovation projects. Such substances can be dangerous to pets and children

if they are touched or accidentally ingested. Exercise extreme caution when using chemical products, making sure all product containers are sealed and kept out of reach when not in use. •Tools: Cuts, abrasions, burns and more can result when power tools and even manual tools are used incorrectly. Learn how to use tools before beginning a project, and always put tools away

when work is done for the day. •Falls: Falls are a leading cause of household injury, and the chance of a fall may increase when climbing ladders during home improvement projects. Don’t climb beyond where indicated on ladders and always have a spotter on hand when climbing is necessary. Wear harnesses, sturdy footwear and gloves as well.

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furnace. For easy installation, homeowners and professionals alike recommend a stone wool batt insulation product called Roxul Comfortbatt. For attics, aim for an r-value of R-50 or a depth of 16 inches. A little preparation can go a long way to keep the cold at bay. Seal out drafts by replacing worn weatherstripping and caulking along windows, doors, baseboards, and trim. For other ways to beat the cold, consider inexpensive window insulation kits along with thicker drapes, and don’t forget to reverse ceiling fans to push warm air back down.

Prep Walls For Painting continued from page 4

5. Patch and paint walls. Spend a weekend ﬁlling in holes left behind by since-removed wall hangings. If the patches dry quickly, paint over them. If not, resolve to do your patchwork one weekend and paint the ensuing weekend.

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 6, 2016

FALL

Seven

IMPROVEMENT

Tell-Tale Signs That Your Driveway May Need Repairs

hough they are often easy to overlook, driveways are durable parts of a home that can greatly impact a home’s curb appeal. Driveways endure quite a bit of wear and tear over their lifespans, and homeowners who have not given their driveways much thought may want to start looking for potential trouble signs that indicate a need for some driveway maintenance. According to the online home improvement resource HomeAdvisor.com, the average cost of a driveway installation in 2015 was just under $3,700. Those costs are inﬂuenced by a host of factors, including the size of the driveway and the material it’s made of. Damaged driveways do not necessarily need to be replaced, as some may just need minor repairs. But homeowners who see any of the following trouble signs in their driveways may want to consult a professional contractor to determine what their next steps should be.

associated with heavily trafﬁcked roadways, but even driveways are susceptible to potholes. As the ground beneath the driveway expands and contracts, the pavement above that ground weakens and becomes more susceptible to damage. That damage may ultimately lead to large chunks of the driveway breaking down, creating holes as a result. Homeowners who live in areas that experience heavy snowfall may see their driveways develop potholes after they are shoveled or plowed. Potholes that are not ﬁxed may damage vehicles that drive on the pavement, and potholes may even expand over time. Accumulation of water Puddles that form during a rainstorm may not be indicative of anything other than a rainy day. But water that pools or runs down the middle of the driveway may indicate drainage problems. Such problems may be the result of structural problems with the slope of the driveway, which can cause bigger issues down the

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road. When water is not absorbed into the ground or directed away from your home, it can then ﬂow into the house, potentially making your garage or home susceptible to water damage. Cracks Cracking is one of the more noticeable issues that can plague driveways. Many driveways experience cracking as materials inevitably succumb to the elements. Driveway cracks may develop for various reasons, including poor initial installation. Tree roots that grow beneath the driveway surface may also contribute to cracking as the driveways ultimately succumb to the pressure created by the growing roots. Some cracks may prove less problematic than others, but homeowners should still speak with a contractor if they notice their driveway is starting to succumb to cracks. Driveways may not draw the attention of homeowners too often, but damaged driveways that go ignored may ultimately lead to very costly problems.

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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 6, 2016

Eight

FALL

IMPROVEMENT

Time Of Year, Preparation Key To Painting Home Exterior

ainting is an inexpensive way to transform just about any space. Many people paint the interiors of their homes, but home exteriors also can undergo dramatic makeovers with fresh coats of paint. Timing the job right and heeding some tips from professionals and doit-yourselfers who have tread the painting path before you can make the job go smoothly. Consider the time of year Consider local weather patterns and forecasts when planning an exterior painting project. Choose a time of year when there is little rain and low humidity, such as autumn. Keep in mind that the paint will require a couple of days to dry completely and cure, and that can be difficult in damp weather. Don’t hamper the final outcome with poor timing. Prepare the painting surfaces Resist the temptation to start painting straight away. Paint may not adhere to unprepared surfaces, and dirt and other debris may show through and mar the finished product. Repainting a home’s exterior will likely involve removing peeling or chipping paint prior to making your first strokes. Wear protective gear when scraping, sanding or brushOpen Sunday 10:00 - 3:00 2014

ing old paint, as such tasks can generate dust that can be dangerous to inhale, particularly if the old paint contains lead. Employ a chlorine bleach solution to kill any mildew and to scrub any dirt from the house. In addition, repair any cracks or imperfections. For example, if you’re painting stucco, you may have to ﬁll in any pitting or holes. Use this opportunity to inspect caulking around windows and

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doors. Recaulk as needed to seal up drafty areas or those that may cause water inﬁltration prior to painting. Prime and cover stains It may be a little extra work, but apply a quality primer as the ﬁrst coat to hide any imperfections, such as wood knots or discolor-

ation from weathering. Primer provides a smooth, even surface upon which to put your paint color. Once you have applied the primer, test your paint color in a small, inconspicuous spot to see how the color looks in the daylight. You do not want to paint the entire home only to ﬁnd out you dislike the color.

Try these painting techniques Rent a paint sprayer for large surface areas. The sprayer will produce a more uniform application and is less time-consuming than painting everything with a brush or roller. Make sure you’ve chosen a high-quality paint, as the added expense is worth it if the paint lasts longer and coats more evenly. Also, if you have purchased multiple cans of paint, mix them all in one large bucket to ensure the same color; otherwise, the colors may not match perfectly. The experts at HGTV recommend working your way from top to bottom in a smooth, controlled manner, overlapping each stroke by eight inches. Trim and hardto-reach areas should be left for brush work so you can maintain control over your tools. If you are painting areas like steps or staircases, consider adding a little ﬁne-grain sand to the paint to improve traction, as paint can be slippery when wet. If painting your home’s exterior is beyond your capabilities, hire a professional. He or she will get the work done in a timely manner, and you can rest assured that the job will be done correctly.

Keep Fire Safety In Mind When Remodeling

t’s surprising that, although millions of homes are remodeled in America each year, few homeowners realize the importance of remodeling with fire safety in mind. While smoke alarms and fire extinguishers are top of mind, do you know how you can improve passive fire protection in your home? Passive fire safety installations do not alert you to, or react to, the presence of fire in your home. This type of fire precaution is part of the core of the building and will help to control the fire by limiting its spread.

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One very effective form of passive fire protection is the installation of insulation. When adding or upgrading insulation, look for products made from naturally fire-resistant, inorganic materials. A favorite among builders, contractors and homeowners is a stone wool insulation called Roxul Safe ‘n’ Sound, which offers fire resistance up to 2,150° F. Its melting point is higher than the temperature of a typical house fire, which means it will stay in place longer to provide passive fire protection when every second counts. Effective compartmentalization through the use of fire-resistant materials can help avoid the spread of fire to other areas of the home, and more importantly, pro-

tect vital escape routes. Consider installing a ﬁre-resistant insulation in walls, ﬂoors and ceilings to maximize protection and escape time.

Consider Mulching This Season

aking leaves may be an autumnal traditional for many homeowners, but those who want a less strenuous way to prevent their lawns from being suffocated by fallen leaves may want to consider mulching them. Fallen leaves should never be left to linger on a yard for very long, and some homeowners may be surprised to learn that waiting to rake until all of the trees on a property have shed their leaves can be detrimental to the lawn. That’s because fallen leaves trap moisture and prevent sunlight and

Mulched leaves can enrich soil so that lawns may not need fertilization air from reaching the grass, making lawns more vulnerable to disease. Fallen leaves also can harbor insects, again putting lawns at See REMOVE, page 15

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 6, 2016

FALL

Nine

IMPROVEMENT Plan For An Elderly Loved One

pon reaching retirement age, new retirees may face decisions regarding their living arrangements. Some seniors may opt to stay put, while others may want to downsize their homes to save money and relieve themselves of the burdens of maintaining larger homes. But those are not the only situations seniors find themselves in. Some seniors realize they can no longer care for themselves without assistance. In such instances, seniors may opt for assisted living facilities or choose to move in with a relative, such as a grown son or daughter. While assisted living facilities are designed to meet the needs of the elderly, young men and women welcoming seniors into their homes may need to take on some home improvement projects to ensure their homes are as safe as possible for elderly residents. • Convert a room on the first floor into a bedroom. While this may not apply to all seniors, some men and women struggle with stairs as they age, and that can make it difficult for them to fully participate in a household. Homeowners with an extra room to spare can convert a room on

the first floor of their homes into a bedroom so seniors won’t have to climb up and down stairs throughout the day. That ease of accessibility to the primary floor of the house encourages seniors to be active participants in a household. If possible, choose an area that is close to a first-floor bathroom. • Take steps to make bathrooms safer. The National Institute on Aging says that more than one in three seniors over age 65 fall each year, and 80 percent of those falls take place in the bathroom. Slippery tile floors can make it difficult for seniors to navigate bathrooms safely, and bathtubs and shower stalls present additional challenges. Install grab bars on bathroom walls and next to toilets to provide support. In addition, consider installing a shower chair or bench and removable shower nozzle in the shower or tub so seniors can sit down while they bathe and rinse without having to stand up on slippery surfaces. Make sure any mats around bathtubs and sinks are nonskid to reduce the risk of falls even further. • Install an extra phone line or two. While kids and adults between the ages of 18 and 50 may never use the landlines in their

homes, many seniors still rely on traditional telephones as their primary means of communicating with the outside world. Install extra landlines in your home, including in seniors’ bedrooms, so they can more readily access the phone should they fall and need to call for emergency help. Phones in seniors’ bedrooms may also provide some additional privacy to seniors who don’t want to carry on phone conversations in busy areas of the home, such as the kitchen or living room. Such lines may also reduce feelings of isolation. • Prioritize accessibility when storing items. When storing groceries, books, magazines, or other items seniors are likely to use, choose locations that are accessible to seniors. Avoid storing items on the top shelf of pantries, bookcases or entertainment centers, as seniors with limited mobility may not be able to reach them. Many seniors move in with their adult children to make their golden years safer and more enjoyable and manageable. Such a change in living arrangements may necessitate some changes on the part of homeowners so they can ensure their homes are safe for seniors.

As Winter Looms, Make Sure Your Home Is In Good Shape

s the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, this is the time to make sure that our homes or rental properties are well maintained. Here are a few do-it-yourself projects to keep your home in tip-top shape: • Top up your attic insulation. Many older homes have inadequate levels of insulation in the attic that wouldn’t meet today’s building code. Topping it up will help reduce energy consumption and keep your house cooler in the summer months. A great product

for this task is Roxul ComfortBatt insulation. It’s easy to install, cuts simply with a serrated blade or bread knife and protects against ﬁre, moisture and mold. Aim for a depth of 16 inches or an R-value of 50. Insulating properly could also provide added beneﬁts, such as improving the longevity of your air conditioner by reducing stress on the unit as temperatures rise. • Inspect your roof and make minor repairs. Winter can be especially hard on a roof. Look for ice, hail or water damage.

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Replace any cracked or missing shingles and clear any debris. • Clean your gutters. It’s not glamorous work, but your home’s gutters play an essential role in moving water away from your home and preventing dam-

age. Consider installing gutter guards to ensure your gutters remain functional and free from debris. • Inspect windows and doors and re-caulk where necessary. Because a proper seal is essential in both heating and

cooling seasons, this job should be performed twice a year to protect against drafts and moisture, and to keep insects out. Worn weatherstripping should also be replaced. Other simple jobs include ﬁxing leaky faucets, repairing and resealing decks, inspecting the foundation and scheduling a checkup for your HVAC system. The key is being honest about what you can handle and, when in doubt, call in the pros.

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 6, 2016

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IMPROVEMENT

Beneﬁts To Building An Eco-Friendly Home

nvironmentally friendly practices are trending everywhere — from our food to our clothing to our homes. Improved practices in the construction industry today reflect the greening of building codes across America, and can be seen in advancements in window daylighting, insulation, air infiltration, and new wall-building materials. But if you want to reap all of the benefits of an eco-friendly home, choose methods and materials that are even more energy efficient than the minimum required by building codes. If you want to reduce your energy consumption, conserve more and increase your property value, be sure to choose a builder who has a demonstrable record in eco-responsibility. “A huge step forward is to replace the traditional wood framing of your house with what we call ICFs — insulated concrete forms,” recommends Keven Rector at Nudura, a leading name in

this technology. More than a win for the environment, an eco-conscious home also offers the following surprising benefits to you and your family: 1. Maximum energy efficiency. With growing energy costs, building an insulated concrete form house is more energy efficient and can save you significant amounts of money on a yearly basis. Walls that reduce outdoor air infiltration greatly optimize energy performance. 2. Safety from natural disasters. “Our advanced design combines two panels of thick (EPS) foam with the structural strength and thermal mass of concrete,” Rector explains. “The resulting envelope immediately gives your house hurricane wind-resistance up to 250 miles per hour.” A home built with this concrete system is also fire resistant for up to four hours. 3. Less outside noise. If you have noisy neighbors or live near trains or high-traffic areas, this one’s for you — ICF construction

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acts as an effective sound barrier, dampening sound vibrations and ﬁltering out unwanted noise. 4. A more comfortable space. Outside cold can easily travel through a typical wood-framed wall, causing thermal bridging and creating uncomfortable cold spots inside your home. If you build the envelope of your house

with concrete instead of wood, you can say goodbye to cold spots, drafts and even mold. 5. A faster building time. All new homeowners can’t wait to get into their new house, but construction delays often postpone move-in dates. But ICF construction takes up less shipping space and require less manpower at the

site, and the assembly is faster than wood framing. Time-strapped builders and eager homeowners beneﬁt equally from this efﬁciency, taking you to that new-house smell that much sooner. If you want your builder to use ICFs, be sure to discuss it early in the plans.

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cost. While you will pay for labor, working with a contractor greatly reduces both the time spent on the project and the risk of costly mistakes being made. In addition, think about the way you ﬁnance the renovations. Industry experts have found that homeowners who ﬁnance their home improvement projects with lines of credit end up spending more money on average than those who use their savings to fund projects. While it may be tempting to take out a line of credit for a home improvement project, spending only money you already have may be the more responsible route to take.

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 6, 2016

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IMPROVEMENT

Transform Old Furniture Into New

urn old or discarded furniture, cabinets and doors into fresh new creations through "upcycling" -- high-end "recycling" that reduces trash at landﬁlls by refurbishing or repurposing existing pieces, often enhancing the value. Woodcraft offers the following ideas and products to get you started. Upcycling Projects •Family furniture: Save chairs, tables, and other furniture passed down through the generations by doing repairs, if needed, and staining/painting to suit your current decor. •Other furniture or "yard sale ﬁnds": These also can be stabilized and given a new look through stain/paint or distressing, but some may also lend themselves to transformation for other uses, such as turning a chest of drawers into bookshelves, a chair into a swing, a dresser into a seat, and more. •Doors and more: Solid wood doors make great tops for tables and kitchen islands, old-fashioned screen doors hung from the

Change the color of your refurbished piece of furniture to give it a new and improved look ceiling can store pots and pans, and old windows make attractive wall hangings used "as is" or with additions, such as photos. •Cabinets: Change the look of your kitchen, bathroom or workshop with a new color for your cabinets and new handles and pulls. Helpful Products •Repair: Furniture that has been around awhile may need repair. For weak chair joints, drill a hole, inject Briwax ChaiRx, and wait for it to swell the joints for a strong bond. For other repairs, Titebond I, II or III and other glues will work. •Transition: Changing the use and form of wood pieces will involve varied tasks.

For projects that involve disassembly of furniture or doors, followed by reassembly of some pieces into a new creation, the Kreg Jig(R) K4 Master System offers quick joinery -- strong pocket-hole joints. Stanley Chair Braces are designed for corner reinforcement on chairs, tables, chests, and more for quick, easy construction and repairs. •Color: Once you have selected and/or repaired a piece of old furniture or created a new piece from an existing one, determine where your upcycled piece will "live," which color or colors will look best there, and which type of paint or finish will achieve the desired effect. Use Restor-A-Finish(R) to "uncover" the original finish on an heirloom or other old piece of furniture. Available in six colors plus neutral, it revives the wood finish's luster while blending out minor scratches and blemishes. To change or refurbish the color, the three products listed below are easy to use. In addition, surface prep for furniture and cabinets requires only cleaning and

light sanding. For a beautiful hand rubbed wood ﬁnish look, choose General Finishes Gel Stain and Topcoats. Available in 12 shades, including the popular Java, these urethane stains and topcoats are easy to use: simply wipe on with a rag and wipe off the excess. To protect the gel stain, especially for heavy-use surfaces such as tabletops, Gen-

eral Finishes offers three options: Gel Satin Top Coat, PolyAcrylic Top Coat or High Performance Top Coat. General Finishes Water Based Milk Paints and Glaze Effects offer a wide range of color possibilities. Use one of the 20 premixed acrylic Milk Paint colors, such as Tuscan red, or combine See MILK, page 14

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 6, 2016

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IMPROVEMENT

‘Tis The Season To Clean Up And Organize Your Garage

arages tend to fall victim to disorganization during the winter, when homeowners want to hurry inside and get some respite from the cold. As a result, many homeowners resolve to clean their garages come springtime. Cleaning a disorganized garage overcome with clutter can be an all-day job, so homeowners would be wise to reserve a springtime Saturday or Sunday to get their garages back in order. Upon designating ample time to clean their garages, homeowners can then utilize a few additional tips to make the project go as smoothly as possible. • Empty the garage. The ﬁrst step when organizing a garage is to empty it completely. Old machinery and rusted lawn and garden tools have a way of disappearing in garages, and those items may remain there for years if the garage is never emptied. Once you have emptied the garage, you might be surprised to learn just how much or even how little space you have to work with. • Clean the garage top to bottom. After you have emptied the garage, give it a thorough cleaning. Cleaning the garage serves multiple purposes. A clean ga-

Change the color of your refurbished piece of furniture to give it a new and improved look

rage and one less likely to be overcome with clutter. Designate one corner of the garage for lawn and gardening tools and another for winter tools like snow shovels or snowblowers. This makes it easier to ﬁnd tools when you need them. When grouping tools, you can also group items by who uses them. For example, parents can designate one area of the garage for their tools, while kids can get their own area for their toys and bicycles.

rage is less likely to be overcome with dirt and/or critters, both of which can contribute to the deterioration of tools and machinery stored in the garage. In addition, you may be less likely to let a clean garage fall back into disorganization, saving you the trouble of reorganizing the garage next spring. • Look up. Many homeowners fail to make adequate use of the vertical space in their garages.

Some Fun Facts About The Autumn Season

But keeping items off the ﬂoor can make it easier to clean the garage and will provide more room for your car or other machinery you don’t want to leave in the driveway or a backyard shed. Install shelves so you can more safely store automotive ﬂuids and cleaners, and hang some hooks or hammer a few nails into the garage walls so you can hang tools like rakes and garden shears. • Group tools by season. Grouping tools by season can make for a more organized ga-

utumn is a season of many changes, with some of the most notable including the dramatic multicolored displays that occur just prior to trees shedding their leaves. It’s also a time of year when many people feel reenergized by cooler temperatures and spend many hours outdoors enjoying all that fall has to offer. Whether one is collecting

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• Resolve to park in the garage. One of the best ways to keep a garage organized is to park your vehicle or vehicles inside the garage each night. Parking in a garage protects your vehicle(s) from the elements, and you also won’t be tempted to leave items lying around on the garage ﬂoor if you know you will eventually be pulling your vehicle in. A few simple strategies can make springtime garage organization more effective and efﬁcient.

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leaves, picking apples, exploring corn mazes, or driving the countryside enjoying the foliage, autumn is full of fun facts that can make the season that much more enjoyable. 1. Autumn begins on the autumnal equinox, which occurs on or near September 22 in the northern hemisphere. This year, September 22 was the day when the sun crosses the celestial equator moving southward. When the equinox occurs, there are an equal number of daylight and nighttime hours. 2. Since ancient times, autumn has been an important time of year for many civilizations. Autumn is a main harvesting time in many areas, and a successful harvest was once necessary for survival. Many steps are, and have long been, taken to ensure a bountiful autumn harvest. 3. Fall is a time when trees and other plants prepare for dormancy during winter. As autumn progresses and the hours of daylight gradually decrease, trees begin to close down their food production systems and reduce the amount of chlorophyll in leaves. Chlorophyll is the chemical that makes tree leaves green, and as it declines, other chemicals become more prominent and shine through in the leaves. That is why leaves change color. 4. Some scientists believe that global climate change can impact autumn colors, such as delaying the change in trees. Also, red pigSee LONGER, page 15

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, OCTOBER 6, 2016

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IMPROVEMENT Research Programs To Reduce Costs continued from page 5

According to the Energy Star program, a refrigerator that is at least 15 years old may be consuming twice as much energy as a newer Energy Star-rated refrigerator. Even though purchasing new appliances will require a ﬁnancial commitment, such items may help save money while beneﬁtting the environment at the same time.

Be Sure To Keep Moisture Under Control

inding the right moisture balance in a home can be challenging. Too little moisture and a home can be plagued by static electricity and interior spaces that can feel dry and uncomfortable. But too much moisture in a home may make it susceptible to mold, mildew and insect infestations. Moisture also can rot wood and cause unsightly stains on walls and ceilings. Maintaining humidity in the optimal indoor range helps to keep the home safe, reduce energy consumption and keep a home’s occupants healthy. Damp conditions can lead to the growth of fungi, viruses and bacteria and may exacerbate people’s asthma and allergies. The ideal relative humidity range of a home should be between 40 to 50, according to heating and cooling experts and the Environmental Prevention Agency. Humidity should be even lower in the winter to prevent condensation on windows and other surfaces. Lower relative humidity also reduces the out-gassing of volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. Measure humidity with a hygrometer to get an accurate assessment. If the humidity levels fall above or below the desired range, action should be taken. Homeowners dealing with excessive moisture can try these remedies. • Ventilate areas of the home. Ventilation can be the ﬁrst step to reducing indoor humidity. Target the areas that create the most moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Turn on venting fans to remove moist air from the bathroom during showers and baths. Exhaust hoods can control humidity from cooking in the kitchen. When possible, open windows on dry days to help air out damp spaces. • Rely on fans. Use fans to circulate the air and prevent moist air from pooling in certain locations. Fans also will help increase ventilation. • Keep gutters and downspouts clean. Prevent water from pooling around the foundation of a home and inﬁltrating the basement or crawlspace. Direct gutter water further away from the house if See MOISTURE, page 15

Read the label Familiarize yourself with the “EnergyGuide” label that appears on most appliances. This label gives consumers an idea as to how much it will cost to run the appliance, as well as how much energy the unit uses on average.

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Look for rebate programs Rebate and recycling programs can help reduce the initial cost of purchasing new appliances. The government may offer tax incentives to those people who purchase a new, energy-efficient models. Think about future salability Homeowners who do not intend to stay in their homes much longer may find energy efficient appliances make their homes more attractive to prospective buyers. Energy efficient appliances can reduce homeowners’ carbon footprints while also saving them considerable amounts of money.

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Fourteen

FALL

IMPROVEMENT

Make Sure To Inspect Your Washing Machines, Water Heaters continued from page 5

go and run it for a few minutes to dislodge anything that might have stuck to the pipes. • Clogged shower drain: The pipes in the shower/bathtub can easily become clogged as well. Hair is the main culprit when shower drains get clogged, so install hair traps that catch any hair you and others might shed while they are bathing. Instruct each person to remove their hair from the drain upon getting out of the shower. If you suspect the drain might already

be on its way to clogging, use a wet/dry vac to remove any hair that might have started piling up in the pipes. • Washing machines: Few homeowners may think to periodically inspect their washing machines, but normal wear and tear on washing machine hoses can gradually build up, potentially leading to ﬂooding if left unchecked. Periodically inspect hoses for cracks and other damage, replacing them if they look especially vulnerable. • Water heater: Water heaters

also can produce plumbing problems if homeowners don’t keep an eye on them. Rusty tank ﬁttings on water heaters are a warning sign that the heater might

continued from page 11

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Fifteen

IMPROVEMENT Wood Options

Longer Life For Autumn Babies continued from page 12

ments may start to decline as trees use sugary fuel to grow new twigs rather than to cause red leaf displays. 5. Americans more readily refer to this time of year as “fall,” while the British use “autumn.”

Both terms date back to around the 16th century. Prior to this period, autumn was known as “harvest.” 6. Much of the United States bids farewell to monarch butterﬂies in the fall. Each autumn, monarch butterﬂies migrate from

Moisture Can Become A Problem If Not Addressed continued from page 13

possible, and keep gutters free of obstructions. • Service HVAC systems regularly. Routine inspections of heating and cooling systems can identify any problems, such as clogged air-conditioning drain lines or faulty operation, that can contribute to moisture problems. • Beef up insulation. Insulate

Remove Need To Rake continued from page 8

risk of disease. Mulching may be the best option for homeowners who prefer to avoid spending several weekend afternoons each fall raking leaves. Many lawnmowers are now equipped with mulching capabilities, which can remove the need to rake. When leaves are mulched, they are minced into tiny pieces that are left behind on the lawn. Such pieces are so small that they won't block air or light from reaching the grass, nor are they likely to harbor insects. But as these tiny pieces of leaves decompose, they enrich the soil with nutrients, so much so that some lawns may not even need to be fertilized in the fall.

cold water pipes and look into insulated toilet tanks that will help eliminate condensation issues. Sealing out moisture in a basement or crawlspace also can help. Vapor barriers can eliminate a great deal of moisture coming into the home. • Address any plumbing leaks. Make sure you trace possible leaks to their sources and have them repaired. Constantly dripping water can add to humidity levels and create other problems. • Use a dehumidifier. If all other efforts have been tried, a dehumidifier unit can help remove excess moisture from the air. Dehumidifiers are particularly helpful in basements where moisture can collect. Controlling moisture in a home results in a safer and healthier space.

the United States to Mexico and some parts of Southern California. They ﬂy at speeds ranging between 12 and 25 miles per hour. 7. A study of U.S. centenarians born between 1880 to 1895 published in the Journal of Aging Research, found that babies born during autumn months are more likely to live to age 100 than those born during the rest of the year. Thirty percent of the centenarians followed were born during the fall. 8. Squash, pumpkins and other gourds are prominent in the fall. The largest squash grown on record belonged to Joel Jarvis of Ontario, and his huge winner weighed in at 1,486.6 pounds in 2011. 9. The many-colored leaves are not the only display one might see during the fall. The autumn equinox signals the aurora borealis, also called the Northern Lights. Besides the lengthening of nights and cool evening weather, which are great for stargazers, autumn is “aurora season,” according to NASA. That’s because, during the fall, geomagnetic storms are about twice as frequent as the annual average. 10. Full moons are named for the month or season in which they rise. The Harvest Moon is the full moon closest to the autumnal equinox.

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epurposing salvaged wood is a popular trend in the home improvement industry. Not only can using salvaged wood give a home a one-of-a-kind look, but it's a handy way to incorporate the three Rs of green living into your lifestyle: reduce, reuse and recycle. Reclaimed wood is often used in flooring, beams, wall treatments, and doors, but it also can be turned into furniture or home accent items. Reclaimed wood adds warmth and historical interest to a home's decor that newer materials may lack. Although finding wood that can be salvaged takes time and some legwork, such efforts can quickly pay off. Many businesses are now devoted to reclaimed timber, which can help make the process of finding and using salvaged wood even easier. Homeowners considering reclaimed wood may be interested to learn that such wood can serve various functions aside from benefitting the planet. · Match old-growth wood. New regulations may prevent certain species of trees from being cut down. That means it can be challenging to match old wood in a home, particularly if you're looking to maintain historical value and authenticity. Relying on salvaged wood items can alleviate this concern, ensuring that you can find rare woods that are no longer available brand new. · Salvaged wood has character. It's difficult to mimic the natural age marks and character that older wood may have. Instead of being raised on farms, wood harvested decades ago probably grew in natural environments, making the wood both durable and strong. The color and grain of salvaged wood may also be unique. · Look at objects in a new way. Doors are versatile pieces of reclaimed lumber because they're already flat and rather large. Doors can be turned into headboards, tables or benches. Staircase or porch posts can be turned into candlestick holders, and wood shutters can dress up walls and provide a place to hang artwork and other wall items.

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the cheshire herald, october 6, 2016