C
Cody Enterprise Thursday, April 23, 2015
Use reputable, local roofing firms Insurance agents: Be wary of offers from ‘fly-by-night’ By BUZZY HASSRICK Special to the Enterprise Homeowners should be wary of fly-by-night roofers, warn local insurance agents who recommend dealing with Cody area companies. The typical fly-by-night scenario begins when a man knocks on your door and offers to inspect your roof, suspecting some damage or potential damage. If none exists, he might even climb up and create problems. The fly-by-nighter will then offer to fix the roof and pressure you into signing a contract. He’ll also offer to handle any claims, assuring that your insurance will cover the costs. Later, he might inflate the original cost estimate by finding other issues. Later, if a problem with the work arises in a year or two, he cannot be located and the job ends up costing double the initial quote. While that scenario hasn’t occurred in Cody, agents report hearing about transient roofers in Washakie and Big Horn counties. The incidents there indicate the crews often come from Florida and Texas and target areas of town where roofs are older or damage has occurred. “And they prey on the elderly,” Farm Bureau agent Jeanna Kennedy said. Farmers Insurance agent Dave Balling advises people to be cautious about a business with no local roots. “My main concern is for the customer,” he said. “We don’t want them to take advantage of our customers.” The out-of-towner “may or may not install the roof properly,
photo by RAYMOND HILLEGAS
McG’s Roofing owner Brian McGonagle nails shingles to a house he was reroofing Monday on Cedar Mountain Drive. and it may or may not be a good product,” Balling said. “With local companies you know it’s a good product and, if there’s a problem, you can call and they’re going to come and fix you up.” Problems with out-of-town roofers occurred last summer in Lovell and Worland, according
to State Farm agent Jen Talich, whose adjuster works in those communities. The newcomers would ask customers to sign a contract before contacting their agents or encourage them to call their agents after office hours. The contract might include add-ons the fly-by-nighter would
try to get from the insurance company, Talich said. Then, if insurance wouldn’t pay, the transient would put a lien on the house for unpaid fees. “It can get really, really messy,” she said. Such transient roofers have worked metropolitan areas like
Billings and probably will be here soon. “It’s coming our way. They just move from town to town, spring and summer,” Kennedy said. “Buyer beware. Get references.” “We’re hoping to try to educate our clients,” Balling added.
Please see ROOF, page C-10
Find lawn mower to meet your needs Simple energy audit
helps lower heating bills
By AMBER PEABODY Special sections editor Mowing season soon will be upon us and if you’re considering buying a new mower to tackle the lawn this year, it’s important to first consider a few things. “The size of your yard is the first consideration because that will help you decide whether your need a push unit or riding mower,” Ace Hardware manager Rod Peterson says. Consumer Reports suggests that if your lawn is greater than a half-acre (220-by-100 feet) you should consider a riding mower.
Walking mowers
If you decide to get a walking lawn mower there are many options. You can choose between a motor-powered or people-powered mower, self-propelled or push, and more. Before you get to cutting, you’ll also want to define how you plan to use your mower. Are you a bagger who collects your clippings? A mulcher who wants a machine that chops the cut blades of grass into tiny bits that fall to the ground and nourish the lawn? A side-discharger, who’d like the clippings blown out of the side of the mower and lets them remain where they fall? Finally, consider the terrain you’re cutting. A 15-degree slope is about the maximum angle one can safely cut.
Manual mower
The manual reel mower was the standard among households in the first half of the 20th century. These push mowers emit no pollution, make little noise, require little upkeep, and are a fraction of the cost of a power mower. But cutting grass with a manual mower is hard work, especially if the grass needs more than an one-inch haircut. “If you have a smaller property, and don’t have much grass, these work well,” Peterson said. “You don’t have to mess with gas or oil and, since it’s smaller, it can easily be stored on the wall of a garage.”
A gas-powered lawn mower is a smart choice for yards smaller than a half-acre. Prices for manual mowers begin around $125.
Gas-powered
Today’s modern gas-powered mowers are efficient, powerful, durable and dependable, when properly main-
tained. Some even come with electric starters, which alleviates the user pulling on the old rope-yanks. “If your grass grows faster we usually recommend a push mower with higher horsepower,” Peterson said. Please see MOWER, page C-10
By AMBER PEABODY Special sections editor A home that wastes energy can put significant strain on your budget. Extremely cold winter temperatures and scorching summers, together with a poorly performing thermal system, will drive monthly heating and cooling costs higher than expected. So what can you do to cut the waste and expense? The best way to tackle your home’s energy inefficiencies head on is to understand your home’s overall performance with an energy audit. “People want to know why they’re losing heat and the best way to lower their bills,” Wyoming Weatherization CEO Ron Willis says. “They don’t want to spend a couple of thousand dollars on something when they don’t know for sure it will work. They want the best bang for their buck.” Willis, who also works for the Wyoming Home Inspection Network, adds that an energy audit can help homeowners prioritize their investments. As part of an energy audit, they check how the air moves in the home by using specialized tools such as blower doors, infrared cameras and carbon monoxide analyzers. In the blower door test, a large fan is used to pull air out of the house and create negative pressure inside. The higher air pressure outside the home then flows into the home through the unsealed cracks and openings. A well-sealed home should have no air leaks. The auditor also may complete a comprehensive infrared scan of your home using an infrared camera. These scans provide a clear image of the location of your home inefficiencies.
“Little leaks lead to big leaks,” Willis said. “Windows don’t leak as bad as people think, but we see many bypass leaks.” One of the easiest ways to dramatically improve the overall performance of your home, following an energy audit, is to assess your home’s existing insulation. Insulation and a tight air seal are vital to keeping the temperature inside comfortable and consistent year-round. Attic insulation is a small fix that makes a big difference. “Insulation offers one of the best saving-to-investment ratios,” Willis said. Old appliances are another energy drain which can be replaced with new, Energy Star certified models, meaning they are at least 30 percent more efficient than older models. Refrigerators are the biggest energy consumers in the house. “You should get rid of that old yellow or green refrigerator because they’re a horrible energy waste,” Willis said. “With a new refrigerator you’ll get a huge savings in its lifespan.” Another major, albeit underthe-radar, energy hog is the DVR box. Cable and satellite companies want them on all the time so they can be updated, so even when you think it’s off, the box still is drawing a large amount of power. Unplug the box when not in use. One of the simplest ways to reduce cost is replacing conventional light bulbs with a more energy-efficient variety. Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or LEDs can reduce your energy use by 50-70 percent. They may cost more up front, but you will save on your power bill in the long run. Willis says windows and doors that leak should be weatherized
Please see ENERGY, page C-10
C-2 - Cody Enterprise -Thursday, April 23, 2015
Home Improvement
Apps can make home projects easier There’s an app today for just about everything, even your next DIY and home improvement projects.
ColorSnap
Houzz
With more than four million design-inspired pictures to look at, this app is the ultimate tool for those looking to do home improvement in style. Like the Houzz website, you can easily search by style, room and location and then save ideas to your own personal “virtual ideabook.” The Houzz app makes it easy to access your designs on the go and to share them with friends and your home professionals. Available on iPhone and Android for free.
MagicPlan
If your home improvement project involves designing a new floor plan, MagicPlan can come to the rescue without a single measure, drawing or piece of furniture moved. By simply holding up your phone and scanning the dimensions of a room, MagicPlan instantly measures your space and draws out a floor plan to create an indoor map of your design area. Once complete, your creation can be exported to a number of platforms for easy viewing and altering from your desktop. Available on iPhone and Android for free.
With ColorSnap, choosing what color to paint your wall no longer needs to be a painful and involved process. For inspiration, simply tap into your stored photo album, or use the in-app camera to take a picture of a color that you like and the app will work to match that color from Sherman-Williams’ collection of paint. Once you have chosen the color, you can use the ColorSnap app to virually impose it on the wall you are wishing to paint so you can see what it will look like in your house. ColorSnap also calculates how many cans of paint you’ll need to complete the job. Available on iPhone and Android for free.
iScape
iScape is the ultimate tool to aid you in your landscape design projects. With a variety of landscape elements available to easily insert into a photo you take of whatever piece of land you want to redesign, you can use iScape to easily insert plants, and draw in hardscapes or flowerbeds to visualize how your garden will look upon completion before you even get started. It can also be a useful tool to show a landscape professional how you envision your finished design. Available on iPhone and Android for free. For more information visit pro.com.
Homestyler
Homestyler is a useful app to consult before beginning any design-oriented home improvement project. The app lets you experiment with home decor through a 3D interface where you can upload pictures of any room in your house and then customize your design by adding real-world products. With Homestyler, you can easily visualize how items will look in your house and ultimately, share your ideas with friends and family for their input. Available on iPhone and Android for free.
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iHandy Carpenter is your ultimate all-in-one virtual carpentry kit with five different kinds of tools built into a single app. With iHandy tool, you have on-the-go access to a plumb bob, a surface level, a bubble level bar, a steel protractor and a steel ruler. Whether you are hanging a picture or installing a door jam, look no further than this app to help you get the job done accurately and efficiently. Available on iPhone and Android for $1.99.
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While completing home improvement projects is one thing, prioritizing and even remembering which ones need to get done, are tasks unto themselves. This app helps you compile your chores and reminds you when they need to get done, all the while providing hints and tips to accomplish them along the way. Available on iPhone and Android for free.
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1308 Rumsey 1308Hopkin Rumsey Ave JeannaAve Kennedy Luke 130882414 Rumsey Ave 1308 Rumsey Cody, WY Cody, WYAve 82414 Cody, WY 82414 Cody, WY 82414 307-587-9669 (307) 587-9669 Kurt V. Hopkin, LUTCF JeannaKennedy Kennedy Luke Hopkin 307-587-9669 (307) 587-9669 Jeanna Luke Hopkin www.jeannakennedy.com www.kurthopkin.com www.jeannakennedy.com www.lukehopkin.com www.jeannakennedy.com 1308 Rumsey Ave 1308 Rumsey Ave Jeanna Kennedy Luke Hopkin
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The Family Handyman DIY is brought to you by Reader’s Digest. The app has tips related to Building & Remodeling, as well as Cars, Trucks and RVs, and Cleaning. In the Building & Remodeling area, you can find more job-specific tips, like tips for better concrete, better drywall, better trim and so on. Available on iPhone and Android for free.
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Cody Enterprise -Thursday, April 23, 2015 - C-3
Home Improvement
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For Your Home Improvement Projects!
Does your home project require more than a hammer? We have the right equipment to make it easier. With just a few stylish accents, a bathroom can become a relaxing retreat.
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It’s easy to transform your NOW OPEN Saturdays 7am-11am! forget, the Milwaukee Tools bathroom into relaxing oasis And don’t trade-in program ends April 30 Time spent in the bathroom can be precious, as it may be your only solo time. When prioritizing home upgrades, consider first transforming a ho-hum, conventional bathroom into an oasis of comfort, style and ultimate relaxation.
Relax
Replace outdated fixtures with new top-quality options that offer greater functionality. Manufacturers such as Mansfield Plumbing, produce fixtures and fittings designed to work in tandem. Such “suites” of a toilet, sink and bathtub can improve the look of a bathroom setting. In a toilet, there are certain features to seek. A SmartHeight toilet allows for easier access. For those who are environmentally conscious or looking for a pocketbook-friendly option, seek out a WaterSense rated toilet, signifying greater water conservation. When it comes to relaxation, the bathtub is king. Luckily, manufacturers are innovating features to go beyond whirlpools. New bathtub offerings include chromatherapy mood light systems, thermotherapy heated backrests and inline heaters that keep water heated perfectly. Explore
your options at mansfieldplumbing.com.
Retreat
Make your bathroom the perfect retreat from the rest of the house and the outside world with a few stylish accents that provide greater solitude. For example, privacy decorative glass windows and privacy acrylic block windows offered from Hy-Lite are design elements that don’t compromise natural light. Available in four designer frame colors, you can go beyond plain frosted glass with stylish windows that come either operable or fixed in place. Offered in varying shapes and sizes, it’s easy to match windows to other bathroom elements, such as tiles and countertops. Full details are available at hy-lite.com. Take your spa retreat a step further by piping music into your bathroom with humidity-resistant speakers unsusceptible to steamy showers and hot baths.
Beauty
On a limited budget you can give the bathroom an elegant long-term facelift by investing in millwork products that resist humidity so you don’t experience warping. From crown moulding to trim
around showers and bathtubs to ceiling medallions, polyurethane is a more practical material than traditional wood for these design elements. It’s lightweight, easy to install, and most importantly, designed to resist the humidity of bathing. To get the look of a luxury hotel, the experts at Fypon, which produce thousands of pieces of polyurethane millwork, moulding and trim in a variety of architectural styles, recommend a few project ideas: •Install a set of pilasters on both sides of your shower stall and a door crosshead overhead to upgrade your bathroom’s look. •Surround mirrors and decorative accent windows with painted or stained polyurethane mouldings that complement the room. •Install chair rail moulding around the bathroom to add dimension. Paint above or below the moulding and use wallpaper, paneling or a different color paint in the other section. Find more project ideas at fypon.com. While many think of the bathroom as a place to take care of necessary business, you can easily give yours an upgrade that will transform it into a whole lot more. (StatePoint)
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C-4 - Cody Enterprise -Thursday, April 23, 2015
Home Improvement
Park County leads way for mortgages In a new study from SmartAsset ranking the best places to get a mortgage in Wyoming, Park County was ranked No. 1. For many people, buying a house means securing a mortgage. To determine the best places in the country to
get a mortgage SmartAsset looked at four factors: overall borrowing costs, ease of securing a mortgage, low property taxes and low annual mortgage payments. To calculate the overall borrowing costs, they looked at the expected costs
over the first five years of a $250,000 mortgage with a 20 percent down payment, including closing costs. SmartAsset calculated the ease of getting a mortgage as the ratio of mortgage applications to actual mortgage originations
(secured mortgages) in each county. They based annual mortgage payments on the annual principal and interest payments for a $250,000 loan in that location, using average mortgage rates in each county.
F i n a l l y, t h e y r a n k e d locations based on these four factors, and then averaged those rankings, giving equal weight to each factor. The areas with the lowest average rankings are the best places to get a mortgage.
Best counties to get a mortgage Loan 5 Year Rank County Funding Borrowing Rate Costs 1 Park 74.68% $64,734 2 Goshen 62.99% $64,345 3 Sweetwater 65.88% $64,716 4 Teton 62.42% $64,807 5 Johnson 58.00% $64,653 6 Albany 72.98% $65.097 7 Sublette 62.58% $64,995 8 Hot 53.80% $64,763 Springs 9 Crook 54.67% $64,920 10 Laramie 70.91% $65,295 WY 62.93% $65,118
YOUR HOME IMPROVEMENT HEADQUARTERS FROM A TO Z
A dvice B rushes C lark &
Kensington
Property Tax $8,335 $8,412 $8,100 $7,594 $7,771 $8,073 $6,121 $7,587
Annual Mortage Payment $12,175 $12,097 $12,172 $12,190 $12,159 $12,248 $12,227 $12, 181
Best Mortgage Markets Index 87.70 86.80 83.60 76.60 75.80 72.20 71.70 67.90
$6,088 $8,456 $7,490
$12,213 $12,287 $12,252
64.90 62.60
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Just a reminder, always call before you dig.
When you build sprinkler systems with us you receive continual, ongoing service.
Sprinkler Sales & Service 324 W. Yellowstone Ave., Cody Mike Sondeno • 307.587.6870
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Z ipties
These days more and more power lines are located underground, and the truth is, you don’t know where they are. Don’t worry, we do. So before you pick up a shovel to dig, Rocky Mountain Power, the City of Powell and Energy West encourage you to call 811 48 hours before you dig. Knowing where the power lines are buried could be a mater of life and death. For more safety information, visit rockymountainpower.net/safety.
Beck Lake Plaza 587-8555
Mon-Sat: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Cody Enterprise -Thursday, April 23, 2015 - C-5
Home Improvement
Don’t neglect your window treatments Most curtains that are lined or made of silk likely require dry cleaning, Kupernik says. Curtains that are not lined or insulated usually can be washed by machine, in a short, gentle cycle with cool water, she says. Those made of a polycotton blend can usually go in a medium-heat dryer, but 100 percent cotton curtains should be line-dried to prevent shrinkage. Curtains and roller shades that are insulated with a bonded layer that keeps out the cold can be machine washed in a short, gentle cycle in cool water and line dried, Kupernik says. If the insulated sides touch each other while drying, they can peel off and ruin the curtain. Sheer and lace curtains should be washed by machine in a short, gentle cycle with cold water and line dried, Kupernik said, adding that both can be touched up with light ironing. Once sheers get in the high heat of a dryer, wrinkles become permanent, she said. After curtains come down for cleaning, dust the rod before hanging them back up. If you don’t want to take them down, Goldberg offers this method for cleaning unlined curtains made from lightweight, sheer or semi-sheer fabric: Close the windows and the curtains and spray the curtains with a wrinkle releaser/ odor eliminator product. Use a handheld fabric steamer, working from bottom to top in one-foot sections, holding the steamer nozzle about an inch from the fabric. For drapes, which are generally made of heavier fabrics like brocade, suede or velvet and are often lined and pleated, vacuum each panel on a low setting with the brush attachment, holding the vacuum about an inch away from the fabric, Goldberg says. Fabric curtains and shades,
(AP) – If you’re like some people (ahem) who put up window treatments and never give them a second thought, even as dust accumulates, this might just be the season to pay them a little respect. No need to stress out about adding another task to your spring-cleaning to-do list: You don’t have to clean curtains, shades and the windows themselves that often. And many times, it’s not that difficult. “In our experience, the windows and window treatments are something that people avoid cleaning because they’re not entirely sure the best way to do it,” says Betsy Goldberg, home director of Real Simple magazine. “It’s not hard,” she adds. “It just takes a little bit of time.” If simply removing dirt isn’t reason enough to clean, consider that dust can dull the fabric of curtains and shades. Household odors can linger. And washing helps preserve the fabric, especially for window treatments that get a daily dose of sunshine, says Tammy Kupernik of retailer Country Curtains. “If you don’t wash them, the sun will break down the threads,” she says. “Washing them keeps the colors bright, it keeps the threads soft and it does add to the life of the curtain.”
Curtains and drapes
Window treatments should be cleaned once or twice a year, experts say, and the best method varies by material. Some can be refreshed in the washer or cleaned with a vacuum, while others may require a pro. Start by reading the care tag or directions that came with the product: Some items are dry clean only. If the instructions are unavailable, experts offer general guidelines:
except silk ones, can usually be spot cleaned with warm water and a mild laundry detergent like Woolite, Kupernik says.
Other blinds and shades
Clean Roman shades with a vacuum or roller brush, Kupernik says. Vinyl shades can be cleaned as needed with a sponge. Goldberg suggests vacuuming wood blinds and wiping each slat with a cloth dampened with a mix of water and a few drops of dish soap, wiping off excess moisture with a dry cloth. First, angle the slats down and wipe each one; then angle them up and repeat. To clean the cord, pull the shade all the way up and run the damp cloth up and down it, followed by the dry cloth. If you have a wand, follow the same steps with the cloth.
Windows
For window panes, if the glass gets dirty enough, you may want to clean them every few weeks. “Realistically, if people get around to it every few months, that’s fine,” Goldberg says. Before cleaning, sweep dirt from the screen and window frame with a brush like the one that comes with your dustpan, or the vacuum with the dusting attachment. Spray glass cleaner or a mix of water and a squirt of dishwashing soap and wipe with a microfiber cloth, starting with the outside and then the inside the panes and moving in an “S” motion rather than back and forth to avoid redepositing dirt. Goldberg suggests wiping in a horizontal motion on the inside, vertically on the outside so you can more easily find streaks and wipe those areas again. Clean on a cloudy day because direct sun makes the glass cleaner dry too quickly and leaves streaks.
Home Improvement?
Try to clean your windows every couple of months.
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We provide custom shower enclosures, as well as mirrors, replacement windows, windshield repair, etc. Don’t forget to ask us about our screen repair just in time for summer! 1930 Sheridan Ave., Cody 587-6269
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REASONS YOU SHOULD CALL US: • No cost roof examination by a HAAG certified roofing inspector to assess any storm damage on your roof • Estimators and claim specialists to help you understand your insurance claim. • Workmanship and materials come with a lifetime transferable guarantee • In many cases, we can offer a free shingle upgrade. • Use top-quality materials and installers on all trades. • All subcontractors are licensed, insured and closely supervised by management. • Extra steps are taken to ensure your safety and livability in your home during the restoration process. • Most claim related work is done for the cost of your deductible.
(307) 587-2202 • 1938 Sheridan Ave., Cody • M-F: 6:30AM-6PM • Sat: 8AM-5PM
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C-6 - Cody Enterprise -Thursday, April 23, 2015
Home Improvement
What to know before replacing your siding Maintenance, weather two keys in decision Whether you’re building a home from scratch or contemplating an upgrade, when choosing siding, there’s much more to consider beyond color. The type of material you use can impact durability, beauty and even energy efficiency. Since siding is a long-term investment, you’ll want to make a decision from an informed place, especially with more options now available in the marketplace. With that in mind, here are some things to consider about different siding materials:
Weather
Extreme weather events, including high winds and hot and cold temperatures can damage or destroy siding. Look for a product that is certified to withstand these conditions. No matter where you live, this should be an important consideration, as weather patterns have become more unpredictable across the country.
Rot
Fiber-based materials (such as fiber cement planks) absorb water, which over time can make siding more prone to rot, decay and even disintegration. At the store, ask to see siding options made of polymer-based materials, which are impervious to moisture.
When choosing new siding for your house, there’s much more to consider than just color. efficiency, choose insulated siding, which will prevent undue loss of warm air in winter and cool air in summer. Where environmental impact is concerned, vinyl is a good bet, as it complies
Environmental Impact
Fo r i m p r o v e d e n e r g y
with environmental standards known as LEED and ICC 700 National Green Building standards.
Maintenance
A certain amount of
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upkeep will be required to keep your siding looking great. However, vinyl siding requires only occasional soap and water, whereas fiber cement requires re-caulking and repainting to maintain
color and help prevent moisture absorption. First introduced in the 1960s, vinyl siding is the most popular home siding material today, due to its overall low cost, easy instal-
lation, durability and minimal maintenance. Whenever making a major home upgrade, learn more about your purchase for smarter, sounder investments. (StatePoint)
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Cody Enterprise -Thursday, April 23, 2015 - C-7
Home Improvement
Do research before updating your home.
Tips to add design appeal to your home
Make sure your chimney and fireplace is inspected, maintained and cleaned annually.
Make fireplace upgrade to improve energy efficiency “ Heating and cooling your home typically comprises nearly half of the average American’s utility bill, according to the U.S. D e p a r t m e n t o f E n e r g y. Unfortunately, a portion of that expenditure is lost. While most homeowners know that insulating, patching and weatherizing can reduce heat loss, there is one major energy eater in your home that you may not have considered -- that charming staple of dens, family rooms and anywhere people gather: the fireplace. Traditional masonry style wood-burning fireplaces are a leading source of indoor air loss and draft, even more so than windows and doors. “Traditional wood fireplaces have great charm but, unfortunately, they can be inefficient even when they aren’t in use,” says Becky Scribner, brand director at Heat & Glo, a leading manufacturer of gas and wood fireplaces, stoves and inserts. The warmer months are
Traditional wood fireplaces have great charm but, unfortunately, they can be inefficient even when they aren’t in use. Becky Scribner, Heat & Glo
”
the perfect time to upgrade your home for the following winter. To give your f i r e p l a c e a n o f f- s e a s o n makeover, consider the following tips: •Don’t send your hard earned money up and out the chimney. When your fireplace is not in use, make sure your chimney damper is closed. You may also install a flue sealer, which is an affordable, inflatable stopper that fits below the damper to further seal off the chimney. •Ensure your chimney
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and fireplace is inspected, maintained and cleaned annually. A contractor can ensure the job is done safely and thoroughly. •Add doors or a cover to the front of your fireplace to help reduce the draft and add a nice aesthetic. •Consider a gas fireplace insert. In addition to
lowering your energy bills and generating more radiant heat, they’re cleaner to maintain -- no ash, soot, or smoke -- and are low maintenance, turning on and off with the flip of a switch. Plus, a new insert like the Escape from Heat & Glo looks great and uses energy-saving firebox technology to increase efficiency. Learn more about the benefits of a gas fireplace insert at www.heatnglo. com/Rekindle. •For those who love the smell, crackle and process of building a real fire, don’t despair. Pellet and EPAcertified wood inserts can be an easy, clean and efficient alternative as well. In the pursuit of energyefficiency, don’t say goodbye to tradition. Instead, give your fireplace a much needed upgrade. (StatePoint)
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spindlework on the porches and patterned shingles on the roof. Offset the complexity with simple surrounds for windows. •For country style cottages, consider clapboard shingles for siding, or wood shake for siding and roofing, and wide white trim or shutters around windows. •Complete the look and feel of your Mediterranean-style home, rich with such decorative accents as round columns, tile and stone, by planting lush gardens and installing an ornate fountain. •Maintain a traditional look with innovative, updated building material that lasts longer and with less upkeep. For example, polyurethane pieces are a lightweight alternative to wood. The pieces are easy to install and resist insects, moisture and weather conditions. Manufacturers like Fypon, which creates thousands of millwork pieces, offer products that come both textured and smooth. A new line of Classic Woodgrain decorative millwork offers a refined woodgrain texture suitable for staining or painting, and complements home styles such as Arts & Crafts and Mediterranean. To l e a r n m o r e a b o u t enhancing your home’s architectural style, you can download Fypon’s free Style Guide at fypon.com/literature/catalog.asp. Don’t just update your house haphazardly. Do a bit of research so you can complement your home’s architectural style authentically and with sophisticated flair. (StatePoint)
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Want to set your home apart? You can add character and beauty to your home by learning more about your house’s architectural style and adding design elements to complement the look. “With the right knowledge, it’s easy to transform any room of your home as well as the exterior,” says Niki Decker, senior product and marketing manager with Fypon, which creates synthetic millwork products. The experts at Fypon are offering some tips and guidelines to achieve an authentic, coordinated look throughout your home -- inside and out. •Proportions matter. If you’re going to be adding shutters to your exterior, do a bit of math. The width of shutters used in pairs on a window should be half the width of the window, and should be the same height as the window. •The higher the ceiling, the taller the baseboard should be. Additionally, the height of your baseboard moulding should always be larger than the casing, which is the frame around a door or window. •Make a room feel taller by placing a chair rail – the moulding used to prevent the backs of chairs from rubbing against the wall -– one-third of the way up from the floor. Chair rails should be 1/2 or one inch narrower than casings. •If you have a classic Georgian style home, characterized by strict symmetry and a centered and paneled front door, cap the front door panel with an elaborate crown supported by decorative pillars. •Enhance your Victorian style home with ornamental
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C-8 - Cody Enterprise -Thursday, April 23, 2015
Home Improvement
Keep tabs on your home’s security while away Ignorance is not always bliss, as parents, pet owners and homeowners know all too well. Whether you’re away on vacation and unsure if you left the lights on, at work and worried about the kids, or even sitting on your couch wondering what mischief the dog is up to in the yard, knowing what’s going on inside your entire home is crucial for peace of mind. Instead of worrying, be proactive. Several strategies, new and old, can help put your mind at ease.
control of home features like lighting and other appliances. “Monitoring devices can provide peace of mind and minimize those lingering anxieties about being away from home,” says Lisa Knierim at Panasonic. More information is available at panasonic.com.
Professional Services
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Trusted neighbors can serve as a second set of eyes when you’re not around. You can even take it one step further and make them their own set of keys. If they’re friendly enough, your neighbors may even be willing to feed pets or help you out in other ways. You can also rely on your kids for regular status reports (if they’re old enough). Have them call you when they get home safely and consider giving them some responsibilities, such as making sure the house is in order and your pets are safe and sound.
Technology
Innovative technologies are providing consumers with new ways to keep an eye on their homes. Such prod-
Put your mind at ease when you’re away from home by using solid security strategies. ucts have evolved and are now easier to use and more affordable for the average family. Indeed, brands like Panasonic are leading the charge. Their new Home Monitoring
System offers four distinct kits, each of which bundles different surveillance products together. Depending on your budget and required level of monitoring, you can outfit your
home with tools like motion sensors, outdoor cameras and indoor cameras to monitor your baby or pet. Keeping tabs on your home from near or far is easy, as the footage can be viewed
on your computer monitor, smartphone or tablet. In addition to surveillance, Panasonic’s technology may prove particularly advantageous to those away from home, as it allows for remote
Even when you’re home to keep track of things, it’s tough to handle everything on your own. In certain cases, you may want to use professionals to help keep everything humming along. If doors jam and fail to latch or you notice cracks in your walls or floors, you may want to call a structural engineer to assess the strength of your foundation. Weeds encroaching on your prized tomato patch? Hire a gardener to fight off intruders or invasive species. A professional heating and cooling service can assess the condition of your air conditioning and heating systems, including inside vents and ducts where you can’t see. The health of your home is important, and sometimes it’s better to go with the hired hand. From trustworthy friends and cutting edge technology to knowledgeable professionals, the tools at your disposal can keep your finger on the pulse of your home. (StatePoint)
Is your home hurting you? Reducing pollutants, chemicals The spring cleaning season is a great time to take a closer look at some of the potentially harmful chemicals present in your home -- and to seek out healthier alternatives. In recent years, homeowners have started asking better questions about what pollutants are lurking around nearly every corner -- from building materials to the paint on the walls down to the backing on carpeting. While it’s neither realistic nor necessary to remove every toxin from a home, there are a few common sources that can be addressed easily. “The good news is, you don’t have to be a chemist to understand what products and materials are safe to have in your home,” says Anne Hicks Harney, architect and Director of Sustainability at architectural firm Ayers Saint Gross and member of the American Institute of Architects’ (AIA) Materials Knowledge Working Group. “You can arm yourself with the knowledge needed to make smarter choices for you and your family.” Harney offers a few tips to help reduce or eliminate common toxins in the home:
Go natural
Whenever possible, use natural or water-based materials and cleaning agents. Also, be aware of: •Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCS): From paint
to composite wood, VOCs are found in many products and are responsible for that telltale chemical “smell.” When it comes to paint, “Low VOC” or “No VOC” are your best options and are easy to find. •Flame Retardants and Petrochemicals: Commonly found in such foam products as couch cushions and insulation, these are a bit more challenging to avoid. The risk is that these chemicals are known to accumulate over time in the human body. Looking for an alternative? Try a natural fiber such as down in your upholstery. •Plastic Additives: Plastics are beneficial in a number of household materials but their use should be limited when possible. Search for a carpet with a polyvinyl chloride (PVC)-free backing or try wool, a natural alternative. For tile or sheet flooring, avoid vinyl products and consider linoleum or cork and rubber options instead.
Ventilate your home
It’s good to open your windows every now and then to get the air circulating into your home and any chemical smells out. If you can’t open your windows due to outdoor allergies or poor outdoor air quality, indoor plants constantly regenerate air and provide a pretty alternative.
Take to the web
Manufacturers and pro-
Whenever possible, use natural or water-based materials and cleaning agents. fessional organizations are becoming more transparent about educating consumers. Check out resources like the AIA Materials webpage or architectfinder.aia.org to learn
more about sustainable products and to find professionals who can assist your efforts.
Don’t know? Don’t buy
As a general rule of thumb,
if you don’t know and understand what a product contains, don’t put it inside your house. Take advantage of the wealth of information now available at your fingertips to
make safer choices. During this spring cleaning season, take the time to protect your family by removing harmful pollutants from your home. (StatePoint)
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Cody Enterprise -Thursday, April 23, 2015 - C-9
Home Improvement
Pantone names Marsala as 2015 ‘Color of the Year’
“
Nurturing and fulfilling, Marsala is a natural fit for the kitchen and dining room.
”
characteristics are enhanced when the color is applied to textured surfaces, making it an ideal choice for rugs and upholstered living room furniture. Nurturing and fulfilling, Marsala is a natural fit for the kitchen and dining room – making it ideal for tabletop, small appliances and linens throughout the home. The hue will be especially prominent in striping and floral patterns found in printed placemats, dinnerware, bedding and throws.
To arrive at the Color fo the Year selection, Pantone combs the world looking for color influences. This can include the fashion and entertainment industries – including films that are in production, the world of art, popular travel destinations and other socioeconomic conditions. Influences may also stem from technology, the availability of new textures and effects that impact color, and even upcoming sports events that capture worldwide attention. For more information go to pantone.com. Past colors of the year include: •Radiant Orchid (2014) •Emerald (2013) •Tangerine Tango (2012) •Honeysuckle (2011) •Turquoise (2010) •Mimosa (2009) •Blue Iris (2008) •Chili Pepper (2007) •Sand Dollar (2006) •Blue Turquoise (2005) •Tigerlily (2004) •Aqua Sky (2003) •True Red (2002) •Fuchsia Rose (2001) •Cerulean (2000)
“
The color Marsala provides a unifying element for interior spaces.
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CARLSTADT, N.J. – Pantone, a global color authority, has chosen Marsala, a naturally robust and earthy wine red, as the Color of the Year for 2015. “While Radiant Orchid, the captivating 2014 color of the year, encouraged creativity and innovation, Marsala enriches our mind, body and soul, exuding confidence and stability,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “Much like the fortified wine that gives Marsala its name, this tasteful hue embodies the satisfying richness of a fulfilling meal, while its grounding red-brown roots emanate a sophisticated, natural earthiness. This hearty, yet stylish tone is universally appealing and translates easily to fashion, beauty, industrial design, home furnishings and interiors.” Complex and full-bodied without overpowering, Marsala provides a unifying element for interior spaces. Add elegance to any room by incorporating this rich and welcoming hue in accent pieces, accessories and paint. Marsala’s plush
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C-10 - Cody Enterprise -Thursday, April 23, 2015
Home Improvement MOWER
(from page C-1)
You’ll also have to decide whether you want a side-discharge, bagging or mulching mower. Side-discharge shoots the grass out the side where it will stay and turn brown if not raked up. These work well for areas with weeds and taller grass. Mulching mowers cut the clippings into tiny pieces that serve as mulch for your yard, helping hold in moisture. “Most people seem to prefer the bagger because it gives you a more manicured lawn,” Peterson said. “Many people use what they collect in their compost pile to create mulch for the garden.” Gas mowers are usually between $160 to $300.
Self-propelled
If you dread the thought of shoving a heavy mower around your lawn all day, you might consider investing in a selfpropelled version. It harnesses the power of the mower to pull itself along the yard and vastly reduces the amount of work necessary to manicure the grass. “These are great for people who don’t want to deal with the effort involved in a push mower,” Peterson said. Self-propelled mowers begin at about $250 and can cost more than $500.
An infrared solar scan of your home helps shows air leaks.
ENERGY
rather than being replaced. “The amount of energy saved isn’t enough to pay for the cost of replacing a window,” Willis said. Weather stripping loose windows can save about $15 per year, per window. And while keeping unwanted air out is a big part of an energy audit, so is making sure your home’s ventilation access is adequate, as fresh air entering your home improves your home’s air quality. R elated to indoor air quality is the larger issue of health and safety in the home. Could your combustion equipment be backdrafting? Does your home have radon? Are dangerous carbon monoxide fumes from your attached garage entering your home through air leaks? These all are questions that also will be answered.
ROOF
The agents emphasize that homeowners can hire anyone they want to fix their roofs. But they should know that insurance claims require catastrophic occurrences, such as damage from wind or hail, not in cases of routine upkeep or replacement of an old roof. “Insurance is not a maintenance policy on a house,” Kennedy said. “The sale of a house is not a triggering event for a claim.” To illustrate the importance of maintaining a house, she quoted poet R a l p h Wa l d o E m e r s o n (1803-1882): “A man builds a fine house; and now he has a master, and a task for life.” When damage does occur, a homeowner should call their agent who will send an adjuster to inspect the roof. “That’s how it should begin – not by an unknown roofer going door to door,” Kennedy said. “I want to make sure people call an insurance agent before signing any contracts to ensure they have adequate coverage.” “We’re happy to take care of legitimate damage,” Balling adds. Yet fly-by-night roofers tend to bypass local agents and adjusters, he said. They’ll file claims with the head office and include supplemental costs. Balling noted roofers can call in claims if they’re legitimate, but usually a customer contacts him and he gets an adjuster. Most Cody people have agents, Talich said, but the transient tries to circumvent them.
(from page C-1)
Check out Wyoming Weatherization
Wyoming Weatherization Services is a non-profit charitable organization providing weatherization to families in the state. They specialize in weatherizing homes and providing housing assistance to improve health, safety, energy efficiency and energy conservation. Weatherization services are available to low-income homeowners and renters to reduce overall fuel costs and help make homes more cost efficient. To be considered people apply for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP), which provides assistance with heating bills. Once approved, applications are forwarded from the LIEAP office to the weatherization agency that provides services in your area. Priority is given to households that have members who are elderly, disabled or have children younger than 6. For more information visit wyomingweatherization. org. Energy audits usually take 2-4 hours and should provide you with maximum comfort and energy savings.
Riding mowers
If you have a large area to mow a riding mower makes much quicker work of the job. Riding mowers come in three styles – rear engine, garden tractors and zero-turning radius.
Rear engine
Rear engine riders provide a more comfortable mowing experience. Due to their smaller cutting decks, rear riders are ideal for yards with narrow passes like fence gates. Their low center of gravity makes them stable while mowing on hills. Rear engine riders now are designed to pull heavy attachments and only travel about 5 mph.
Lawn and Garden
For more than just mowing,
Manual mowers are a good choice when you have just a small patch of grass to mow. check out the lawn and garden tractors. Equipped with powerful engines, these have the muscle to accomplish big jobs and are built to haul heavy attachments. But if you’re looking for high speeds or your yard has many obstacles these might not be the best option.
Zero-turn
These high performance mowers zip around your lawn at 8 mph and can turn on a dime. Their steering system allows you to make nimble 360 degree turns and save you the most time while mowing.
Zero-turn don’t handle well on slopes and may slide because they do not have large, gripping tires.
Price
With all mowers another big consideration is price. Entry level mowers will be on the less spendy side, with price increasing as features and accessories are added. And in the fall don’t forget to purchase some fuel stabilizer. “If it’s been sitting for five or six months the gas can go bad,” Peterson said. “Gas treatment makes it start up much easier.” The cost of riding mowers ranges $900-$3,000.
First Bank of Wyoming
(from page C-1)
Roofers need to be licensed
To work in the city, a roofer must have a license from the city of Cody. City administrator Barry Cook and building official Scott King say an applicant for a class C contractor license must have liability insurance, experience and four letters of reference. The city may issue a conditional license to be ratified later by the Contractors Board. “We want to make sure they know what they’re doing,” King said. He recommends homeowners ask contractors to show them a license “for the category of work they propose to do.”
“They’re looking for insurance dollars,” she explained. The three agents encourage homeowners to be leery of out-of-towners and work with established companies. “Watch out for fly-bynight roofers,” Kennedy said. “Look for contractors and roofers who are local and have their own business and storefront. We have fabulous local roofers.” The local companies offer well-trained crews and understand Cody winds. Further, she said, “You’re going to get a good qualify roof from a Cody roofer.” Talich agreed, saying a local company will offer a roof that’s done well along with a warranty.
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Cody Enterprise -Thursday, April 23, 2015 - C-11
People
C-12 - Cody Enterprise -Thursday, April 23, 2015
People