Your Home Guide 240419

HOME improvement

Elevate Your Garden

Crafting charming pathways for a magical outdoor experience

Rebecca Rivers Creators.com

Embark on a journey of garden transformation with enchanting pathways that add a touch of whimsy to your outdoor space. Whether you’re working with a sprawling backyard or a quaint corner, creating inviting walkways can elevate the ambiance and allure of your garden. Here’s how to craft charming pathways using a variety of materials and techniques.

Choose the Right Materials

Selecting the perfect materials is important for achieving your desired aesthetic. Stepping stones offer a natural, rustic charm, while pebbles add texture and visual interest. Mulch provides a soft, earthy pathway ideal for leisurely strolls, while pavers offer du-

rability and structure for paths that will see a lot of foot traffic.

Define with Edging

Edging serves as the framework for your pathways, defining boundaries and keeping them neat and tidy. Opt for edging materials that complement your chosen pathway material, such as stone or brick for a classic look or wooden borders for a more rustic feel. Consider decorative edging options like scalloped metal or intricate designs for added flair.

Combat Weed Growth

Preventing weed intrusion is essential for maintaining your pathways. Install a weed barrier, such as landscape fabric, before laying down your pathway material to inhibit weed growth while still allowing water to penetrate. Adding

a layer of gravel or sand over the fabric provides additional stability and drainage.

Enhance with Decorative Touches

Elevate the charm of your pathways by incorporating decorative elements that captivate the senses of passersby. Illuminate the edges with subtle lighting for a magical ambiance during evening strolls. Integrate garden ornaments like statues, signs or hints of color to enchant visitors. Planting fragrant flowers or herbs along the pathway adds sensory delight and enhances the enchanting atmosphere.

Ensure Proper Drainage

Proper drainage is essential for maintaining the integrity of your pathways and

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preventing water damage. Ensure that your pathways are sloped slightly to allow water to drain away from the surface. Incorporate gravel or porous materials into the base layer to facilitate water absorption and prevent pooling.

Personalize with Pathway Patterns

Infuse your pathways with personality by incorporating creative patterns and designs. Experiment with different arrangements of materials to create intricate mosaic-like patterns or geometric shapes. Mix and match colors and textures to reflect your unique style and add visual interest to your garden landscape.

Crafting charming pathways is a delightful way to enhance the allure of your garden and create a magical outdoor experience. By following these simple steps, you can transform your garden into a captivating sanctuary that beckons exploration and relaxation. So, unleash your creativity and embark on the journey to elevate your outdoor space with enchanting pathways.

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Proper Deck Cleaning

Keep your deck looking fresh and clean

James Dulley Creators.com

Dear James: We have an old wood deck and are expanding its size. The old deck looks bad compared to the new one. How can we make it look newer to match? – Valerie M.

Dear Valerie: If the old decking was not cleaned and treated regularly, it can look almost black. The mildew can get slippery when it is wet. The appearance is not the only issue. The wood can begin to deteriorate to the point that it cannot be cleaned and brightened.

When it has been more than three years since you treated your old deck, it is due for both a cleaning and treatment. Your new deck needs to be treated too but wait about a month for its moisture level to stabilize. Treat both the decks at the same time so they are on the same treatment schedule.

Even though the decking lumber is pressure-treated, it still is attacked by moisture, temperature changes and the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun. The swelling and shrinking from moisture changes can cause any wood to warp and split.

UV rays break down the materials that hold the wood fibers together. You have seen how these UV rays can destroy your deck chairs and cushions. I think everyone, at one time or another, has sat in an old chair on a deck and gone right through it.

Discoloration that you see is primarily caused by mildew. If wood is not treated and it gets wet, fungus grows and discolors it quickly. This is just a surface condition and not as damaging to the wood as moisture or UV rays.

The first step to beautifying and saving your deck is to clean it. A pressure washer is ideal, but do not set the pressure too high or the wood can be damaged. Clean your new deck too because there can be some mill residue on it.

Instead of using a pressure washer, I sometimes just spray on an oxygen-based bleach (available at paint stores). It

oxidizes the dirt and mildew. Avoid using common chlorinebased bleach. If your deck is made of cedar or redwood, use oxalic acid instead of bleach.

Now that both your decks are clean, give them several days to thoroughly dry out. When you go to the home center, the array of deck "sealing," "preserving," "rejuvenating," etc. products will be staggering. Don't just buy what is on sale or take the advice of the salesperson.

There are basically two types of deck treatments to consider: a semi-transparent oil stain or a water-repellent preservative. Of these two, I prefer the oil stain. It soaks deep into the wood and provides an attractive even color, yet still allows the natural grain to show through.

The clear water-repellent preservatives often are a wax or a silicon base that seals the surface but soaks less deeply into the wood. These are less expensive, about half the cost of good-quality oil stains, and they really should be reapplied every year. Check the label to make sure it contains

water repellents, mildewcides and UV blockers.

Your decisions are not over yet. There are two types of oil stains: natural oils like linseed oil and more expensive synthetic oils. Both oils do an excellent job of sealing and

preserving the wood and they both produce a beautiful deck.

If you live in an area with moderate humidity and rain, natural oil stains have a tendency to support mildew and discoloration. The better natural oil stains contain

mildewcides (or they can be added), but the black mildew may still reappear in a year or so. Synthetic oil stains do not support mildew growth.

James Dulley's weekly column, "Here's How," can be found at creators.com.

McCarthy’s Landscaping is passionate about customer service – and your backyard

By Evan Walsh Reporter

REGION – McCarthy’s Landscaping & Irrigation started simple: one man, one truck.

But over the next 29 years, Roger McCarthy turned his business into one of the preeminent Central Massachusetts landscaping, outdoor construction and irrigation companies. The success wasn’t

here to do quality work and help clients “get their weekends back,” according to Sue McCarthy, Roger’s wife and business partner of 22 years.

McCarthy’s is able to consistently provide top-quality services because of how people — both clients and company employees — are treated. The company prides itself on how it treats staff, and the happy and well-supported

“Our employee retention speaks to the quality of work. Our guys know what to do. The same crew guarantees consistency.”

Sue McCarthy Owner

by accident; now boasting 12 trucks and 15 employees, McCarthy’s has grown by treating customers and staff the right way, building trust and ensuring quality work.

“It’s our name on everything that’s being done. We want our name to be synonymous with quality of work, pride and loyalty. There’s 1,000 landscapers out there, but it doesn’t mean they’re all good,” Roger told the Community Advocate in an interview.

McCarthy’s is a full-service landscaping company, offering services including lawn care, mowing and irrigation. The company also works on outdoor projects, including patios, fire pits, outdoor kitchens and other hardscapes that will enhance your backyard.

From spring cleanup to mid-summer lawn maintenance — and even major construction projects to enhance your lawn — McCarthy’s is

employees pass those benefits onto the clients.

“We have created a great company culture here with the guys. We have a long tenure with our employees. They are the face of the company; we respect them and

what they do for us. We’re all part of the team, and it seems to be winning. They’re truly a family to us — we know all our employees and

what they’re about,” Roger said, noting that the team often holds family retreats and goes to Worcester Red Sox games.

With such great company culture, talented employees love their work and stay at McCarthy’s. And because staff have long tenures at the

Roger and Sue McCarthy (Photo/Evan Walsh)

company, they become experienced at caring for properties just as clients prefer. At McCarthy’s, clients can expect to get the same crew every week; the crew will develop a detailed understanding of your property and preferences.

“Customers like the fact it’s going to be the same crew so it’s not a learning curve with a different crew coming every week. The customers are able to get to know the crew coming and ask the foreman a question. Our

crews are very responsive to our clients. They’ll stop. They’ll talk to them. They’ll listen to them,” Roger said.

“Our employee retention speaks to the quality of work. Our guys know what to do,” Sue said. “The same crew guarantees consistency. Clients like that; they rely on that.”

Clients and the McCarthy’s crew develop close relationships over the seasons, Roger said. One client bakes for the employees during spring

cleanup; one time, a group of McCarthy’s landscapers sang for a 90-year-old client to celebrate her birthday.

And when calling McCarthy’s, you can expect first-rate workmanship. For hardscape projects, Roger personally visits each project to ensure his staff is exceeding expectations.

Next year, the business will celebrate its 30-year anniversary. While both Roger and Sue said that they’re still planning possible festivi -

Servicing Central MA & Beyond.

We offer discounts to veterans, senior citizens, and first responders.

ties, one thing is for certain: They’re going to continue providing top-quality service to Central Massachusetts. They plan to ramp up the maintenance side of the business and add another crew to assist customers.

“In this industry especially — and with any small business — to be able to say you’ve been here 30 years is a huge milestone,” Roger said with a proud smile. “It’s easy to start a landscaping company; it’s

tough to keep one going.” McCarthy’s Landscaping & Irrigation services every town within the Community Advocate coverage area. For more information on the company — or to schedule a consultation — please call 508-842-7110 or visit https:// mccarthyslandscaping.com/.

Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Community Advocate advertisers.

GRAY’S CARPET CENTER, INC.

“Serving You Since 1943”

Compare our service and bottom line to the ‘big box home centers’… you’ll be pleasantly surprised!

60 Main Street, Northboro (508) 393-2659

Mastering the Art of Outdoor Entertaining

Elevate your summer gatherings

Rivers Creators.com

A s summer approaches, it’s time to take your entertaining skills to the great outdoors. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a sunset soiree or a casual gathering with friends, creating an inviting outdoor space is key to making lasting memories and enjoying the season to the fullest. So, let’s dive into the art of outdoor entertaining and discover how to transform your backyard into the ultimate summer oasis.

First and foremost, comfort is king when it comes to outdoor entertaining. Invest in high-quality, comfortable outdoor furniture that invites guests to relax and unwind. From cozy sofas and lounge chairs to spacious dining sets, there are endless options to suit your style and space. Consider materials like weatherresistant wicker or durable aluminum that can withstand the elements while still providing comfort and style.

Next up, no outdoor gathering is complete without a sizzling grill station to tantalize taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice chef, having a designated area for cooking al fresco adds an element of excitement and camaraderie to any gathering. Equip your grill station with all the essentials

Rebecca

— from utensils and condiments to an assortment of meats, veggies and marinades — and let the flames ignite the senses as you whip up culinary delights for your guests to enjoy.

But outdoor entertaining isn’t just about the food; it’s also about creating a festive atmosphere that delights the senses and sparks conversation. Add colorful tablecloths and vibrant throw pillows to inject a pop of personality and style into your outdoor space. Opt for patterns and textures that reflect the season think bold stripes, cheerful florals or playful polka dots and mix and match to create an eclectic, inviting vibe that sets the stage for summer fun.

Don’t forget to set the mood with ambient lighting that casts a warm, inviting glow as the sun sets and the stars emerge. String lights, lanterns and torches are all excellent options for adding a touch of magic to your outdoor oasis. Scatter candles and citronella torches throughout the space to keep pesky bugs at bay while infusing the air with a subtle, summery fragrance.

And of course, no outdoor gathering would be complete without a refreshing selection of beverages to keep guests cool and hydrated on even the hottest of days. Set up a stylish beverage station stocked with ice-cold drinks, from crisp cocktails and chilled wines to refreshing lemonades and infused waters.

As you embark on your outdoor entertaining adventure, remember that the key to success lies in the details. Pay attention to the little things from fresh flowers and greenery to whimsical decorations and personalized touches that add charm and character to your outdoor space. With a little creativity and a lot of imagination, you can transform your backyard into the ultimate summer sanctuary where memories are made and laughter fills the air.

So, embrace the art of outdoor entertaining, and let your backyard become the go-to destination for summer gatherings that leave guests smiling and eagerly anticipating the next invitation. After all, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than surrounded by good friends, good food and the beauty of the great outdoors.

Mr. Handyman of Central MetroWest offers a wide variety of services

‘On

time, done right’: Mr. Handyman is the contractor you can trust

By Evan Walsh Reporter

REGION – Mr. Handyman of Central MetroWest excels at building decks, but the company is just as passionate about building relationships with its customers.

As a locally owned and operated company, Mr. Handyman offers a wide range of services, including repair work, remodeling, painting, window services, door installation, floor installation and carpentry. Over the last 21 years, Mr. Handyman has helped thousands of customers improve their homes.

The commitment to exceptional customer service begins from the moment you engage with the company. Whereas other contractors can be slippery almost impossible to get a hold of, even in emergencies Mr. Handyman has a robust and Massachusetts-based customer-service operation.

When you call the company, you can expect a prompt response from a knowledgeable representative.

“We’re always available to answer the phone and promptly return calls. It’s definitely common for people to come to us and say, ‘I tried to reach out to my regular contractor and they didn’t answer.’ We understand the importance of reliability. People want to trust that someone will show up and actually do their job,” said marketing representative Katie Burke. Their responsiveness is just one aspect that has earned Mr. Handyman the Angi Super Service Award for seven consecutive years. Mr. Handyman employees are courteous and professional they carry proper identification to promote trust, wear uniforms and they’re happy to take the time to communicate effectively with customers and outline how the work is progressing.

“We’re very proud of our record… Our technicians can relate to our customers,” Burke said.

Mr. Handyman employees care about their craft, and Mr. Handyman cares for its employees. In addition to generous benefits, the employees are supported on an emotional level, Burke said.

“While some companies may overlook their employees’ well-being, we make it a point to check in with our team members daily. We ensure that they feel valued and supported,” she said.

In the rare event of an issue, Mr. Handyman fully guarantees its work. If the result of a project falls short, the company will return to the property and address any concerns. Moreover, the company is licensed, bonded, and fully insured, eliminating risk for the customer.

While Mr. Handyman may not always offer the lowest prices, its attention to detail,

customer service and quality craftsmanship ensures customer loyalty.

“It’s about the extra steps that we take,” said Burke. “We prioritize our quality of work, punctuality, clear communication with customers, and transparent pricing. There are no hidden fees.”

The company’s excellence is described in its motto: “On time, done right.”

Currently, Mr. Handyman is focusing on educating consumers about “aging in place,” as well as its safety and mobility services. These services prioritize installing senior-friendly accessories

“We’re guiding clients on ways to improve their comfort and prolong their ability to live in their homes. That’s a significant focus for us at the moment,” Burke said.

Mr. Handyman of Central MetroWest services every town in the Community Advocate coverage area. For more information on the company or to contact a customer-service representative call 508-366-3690 or visit https://www.mrhandyman.com/central-metrowest/. Business Profiles are advertising features designed to provide information and background about Community Advocate advertisers.

Illuminate Your Space

Elevate your lifestyle with stylish lighting fixtures

Rebecca Rivers Creators.com

In the realm of interior design, lighting is the unsung hero that can truly make or break a space. It's not just about functionality; it's about creating an atmosphere, enhancing a mood and adding personality to your home. With the right lighting fixtures, you can transform even the most ordinary rooms into extraordinary spaces that reflect your unique style and elevate your lifestyle.

Let's start in the heart of the home: the kitchen. Imagine walking into a kitchen bathed in the warm glow of pendant lamps suspended over the island counter. These sleek fixtures not only provide essential task lighting for cooking and meal prep but also serve as stunning focal points that draw the eye and elevate the entire space. Whether you prefer modern minimalism or classic elegance, there are pendant lamp designs to suit every taste and aesthetic.

But the kitchen isn't the only room that can benefit from a lighting upgrade. In the bathroom, harsh overhead lights can cast unflattering shadows and make your morning routine feel less than glamorous. By flanking your mirrors with elegant sconces, you can create a soft, flattering glow that makes getting ready a pleasure. Not only do sconces add a touch of sophistication to the space, but they also provide even illumination that's perfect for doing hair and makeup.

When it comes to creating ambiance and setting the mood, lighting is your secret weapon. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night in, the right lighting can make all the difference. Consider incorporating accent lighting, such as wall-mounted fixtures or table lamps, to highlight architectural features or create cozy reading nooks. And don't forget about outdoor lighting; strategically placed fixtures can

enhance your home's curb appeal while also providing added security and safety.

When updating your lighting, consider not only the style of the fixtures but also their functionality and efficiency. Energy-efficient LED bulbs are not only better for the environment but also save you money on your utility bills. And with the advent of smart lighting systems, you can control your lights remotely, adjust bright-

ness levels and even change colors to suit your mood or the occasion.

In the grand tapestry of interior design, lighting is the thread that ties everything together. By investing in stylish and functional fixtures, you can elevate your space and enhance your lifestyle in ways you never thought possible. So don't let your home languish in the shadows; let there be light, and let it shine bright.