2011 Fall Home & Garden

October 2011 produced by the Marketing Department of

The Anniston Star

FALL

HOME

ON YOUR SIDE

Explaining the different siding options

www.annistonstar.com/fallhome

PATTERN POINTERS Don’t be afraid to introduce patterns into your home BUILDING A BUDGET Things to consider when budgeting your home improvement project

Go Online to view this section!

FALLHOME

The Anniston Star • October 16, 2011

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Things to consider when budgeting your home improvement project 5 Keep Your Home Exterior in Top Shape 6 Color My Home 8 Customize Your Home To Suit Your Lifestyle 9 On your side Understanding Different Siding Options 10 Think “FRESH” When Selecting Roof Colors 12 Easy and Economical Solutions for Those Postponed Remodeling Plans 14 Don’t be afraid of pattern 18 Improving Energy Efficiency

October 2011

October 16, 2011 • The Anniston Star

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The Anniston Star • October 16, 2011

Things to consider when budgeting your home improvement project

Before beginning a home improvement project, homeowners should construct a budget to ensure the project is a success.

Home improvement projects have become de rigueur for today’s homeowners. Be it a kitchen remodel or the ever popular man cave project, home improvement projects remain a goal for many homeowners.

As enticing as a home improvement project might be, no project can be successful until a budget has been established. The right budget will keep homeowners from going deep into debt when improving their homes, ensuring that, upon the project’s completion, they can fully enjoy their revamped castles without the specter of significant debt hanging ominously over their heads.

Before beginning a home improvement project, homeowners can take the following things into consideration.

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• Personal finances: It sounds

simple, but homeowners must examine their finances before starting a home improvement project. Just because a bank will loan out money for a project doesn’t mean the project is affordable. Homeowners should compare their monthly expenses with their incomes, and then determine what’s left that might be able to go toward a project. Monthly expenses include everything from groceries to mortgage payments. When the comparison between monthly expenses and monthly income has been made, homeowners can get a grasp of just what they can and cannot afford.

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finance home improvement projects with loans from the bank. Particularly in the current economy when banks are being forced to tighten lending requirements, securing such loans isn’t easy. Homeowners with significant credit card debt should

eliminate such debt before beginning a project. Doing so serves multiple purposes.

First and foremost, eliminating outstanding debt will free up more money to allocate toward the project. Eliminating debt will also make loan applicants more attractive to prospective creditors, increasing their chances of securing a loan and a lower interest rate.

• The project’s priority: Budgeting a

home improvement project also involves being honest as to just how necessary the project is. For example, a man cave might be a dream project, but should it be a priority over other things around the house? If wear and tear is taking its toll on the roof, for instance, the money going toward the man cave should probably be allocated to replacing the roof instead. If a project is low on the priority list but high on the want list, re-examine those projects higher up on the priority list to determine if they are more deserving of immediate attention and funds than vanity projects.

• Overrun costs: Not every home

improvement project will come in at or under budget. Many, in fact, go over budget due to a host of factors. Homeowners should not be caught off guard when a project goes over budget. Instead, plan for the project to go over budget and expect such frustration.

Allocate extra money in the original budget for overrun costs. This will reduce stress and frustration, and if the project comes in under budget, then there’s extra money when the project is completed.

October 16, 2011 • The Anniston Star

FREE DECK PLANS Offer Inspiration and Beauty

Now there is. A brand-new series of free, inspirational deck plans is available online at www.realoutdoorliving.com.

Featuring five deck plans ranging in size from a townhome to a two-story deck on a traditional home to a gorgeous standalone gazebo, there’s a style and size to fit everyone’s taste.

Each of the five plans — The Townhouse, The Stratford, The Colonial, The Islander and The Tranquility — have their own informational page that includes free downloadable plans and a complete materials list. Additional deck plans will be added to the site in the coming months.

Customizable Deck Plans Ever researched deck plans, only to find nothing fits your home just right? The design isn’t right, it’s too big for your home, it’s too small for your home, it’s too high off the ground, it’s too low to the ground, you don’t like the grill bump-out, the stairs are in the wrong place … isn’t there a deck out there that’s perfect for YOUR home?

Love the decks — but your backyard has a different layout than in the pictures?

Not a problem! While the deck plans, as pictured, are free downloads, each plan can be customized for a very small fee. Simply choose a plan you like, then click through from the deck plan page to the designer, give them your home dimensions, and the designer will return deck plans perfect for your home at a fraction of the cost.

Need a little

Designed by Shawn Miller of Classic Designs Inc., in Denver, Colorado, and Bobby Parks of Peachtree Decks & Porches in Atlanta, Georgia, all of the deck designs offer interesting angles, bump-outs and unexpected features intended to inspire. Far from being typical rectangle decks on the back of a house, the Destination: DECK series of deck plans offer style, elegance, creativity and personal touches.

Build green? Choose real wood.

Each of the decks in the series was constructed using real, natural, authentic pressure-treated wood. The number-one decking material in the market and a long-time favorite of DIYers, builders and remodelers everywhere, wood is strong, durable, beautiful and environmentally friendly.

Worried about trees, forests and the environment? A recent study concluded that pressure-treated wood is a better decking material choice for the environment than alternative decking materials.

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Why? • Wood decking production uses 8.5 times less energy than alternative decking production.

• Wood decking production uses 14 times less fossil fuel than alternative decking production.

• Wood decking emits 3 times less greenhouse gas during production than alternative decking.

• Wood decking production creates 2 times less smog than alternative decking production.

Additionally, wood from sustainably managed forests means that trees and wood will be around for generations to come — after all, wood is a natural, renewable resource. The forest industry plants more trees than are harvested each year and our forests are in better shape than they were a century ago.

Now is the time! Go online to www. realoutdoorliving.com and find your perfect deck. Then enjoy your beautiful, natural outdoor living space with your family and friends.

For more information on real wood or to read the environmental impact study comparing wood to alternative decking, please visit www.realoutdoorliving.com.

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The Anniston Star • October 16, 2011

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considered, along with paint colors for some exteriors.

one of the most common requests for homeowners in today’s marketplace as people look to add more colorful features to their homes as part of remodeling and new construction projects.

Moving to the windows, Smith believes a growing trend for homeowners is to select energy-efficient vinyl framed windows with color exteriors to complement the overall look of a home’s exterior.

“A well-chosen color scheme for a home’s exterior can bring out architectural details, downplay flaws and enhance the overall look of the home,” says Kate Smith, president of Sensational Color. “I always recommend starting from the top down when considering the colors for a home.

Start with the roof, work down to the siding, then consider the windows, entry door and trim.”

“There are product lines from Simonton Windows for both replacement and new construction windows and patio doors that offer unique color options such as Brick, Pine, Chocolate, Bronze, Cream and Driftwood,” says Smith. “These frame colors, when matched with trim pieces such as crossheads, shutters and mouldings, create stunning accents. I’ve seen that urethane pieces from Fypon accept paint colors extremely well and can help to make the windows and doors more focal features of the home.”

When offering color consultations on home exteriors, Smith begins with the roof.

“Depending on the style of a home, as much as 40 percent or more of the visual you get when looking at a house is the roof,” says Smith, a color consultant for DaVinci Roofscapes. “The more roof that is shown, the more important it is to allow the roof color to help define the home’s style.

“I’m a great fan of color blends for roofs, which you can easily find in polymer roofing products. When you select blends with different shades of a color or two in it, the entire roof seems to merge and unify the home exterior. This softens the roof visually and provides you with more longterm options for accent colors to ‘pull out’ from the roofing blend color.”

Both garage and entry doors are also primary products that beg for color on a home’s exterior. According to Smith, having a door that is painted in a bright, warm color can focus attention on the welcoming aspect of a home.

“Generally, if a garage door is clearly visible from the street, it’s best to blend its color to the siding and trim,” says Smith. “When the garage is in line with the front door or behind the home, you can potentially add more color. But, keep in mind that you want the main entry door to ‘pop’ more than the garage, so reserve your key color push for that area of the home.”

October 16, 2011 • The Anniston Star

Keep Your Home Exterior in Top Shape

Feel like cheating?

Forget what the inside of your home looks like for just a bit and focus on your home’s exterior.

“The exterior of your home makes a lasting and daily impression on your friends and family, along with your neighbors,” says Mark Clement, professional contractor and host of MyFixItUpLife home improvement radio show.

“While the weather is good, my advice is to get outside and fix up problem areas, work on the landscaping and invest in products that make your home’s

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exterior not only look great, but work great.”

Clement, who is in the middle of an ongoing renovation of his 100-year-old home in Pennsylvania, recommends assessing your needs and then diving in on projects. “On the exterior of the home there are three big, critical areas I recommend people evaluate every year — the roof, the windows and the entry door.

Those are key areas because, along with being visual focal points of the home, they help protect a house from severe weather. And, if you have problems with older windows, doors or roofing tiles, you’re looking at higher energy bills and growing problems that can affect your wallet long-term.”

Contractor Mark Clement installs polymer roof tiles on his home.

Clement offers these recommendations for keeping your home exterior in top shape:

ROOFING TIPS

ENTRY DOOR TIPS

WINDOW TIPS

TRIM TIPS

1. Check your roof yearly (from a ladder or from a neighbor’s home with binoculars) to determine the condition of your roof. Look for problem areas, such as missing or broken shingles, along with roofing tiles that may be “flapping” in the wind. These are all indications that a new roof may be in your future.

1. If you can see light around your main entry door from the inside, the door is hard to close or lock, or the door itself is warped, it’s time to consider a new door.

1. Evaluate the functionality and decorative appeal of your current windows. If you have condensation between glass panes, the windows are hard to open or close, your energy bills are soaring or if there are drafts coming in around the window units, then it’s time to seriously consider replacement windows.

1. If you have the opportunity to replace your entry door or windows, make sure to finish off the job with stylish window and door trim. Lightweight and easy to install, weather-resistant synthetic mouldings, shutters and entryway surrounds from Fypon® are a definite do-it-yourself project for any homeowner.

2. Don’t forget to check the sides of your roof.

The southern exposure weathers significantly faster than the other sides of the roof, so make sure to carefully examine this one. Also, shallower pitches weather faster than steeper pitches. So again, if your roof has a shallow pitch — like a shed dormer — make certain you can clearly see it to get a true indication of the condition of your roof.

3. If you’re in the market for a new roof, investigate polymer roofing tiles as a good option. These impact-resistant slate and shake tiles are man-made in a wide variety of colors. Some tiles, like those from DaVinci Roofscapes® that Clement chose for his home, have a 50-year limited warranty and are ideal for all types of weather conditions, including hurricanes and hail.

4. Since the installation of a new roof exceeds the capabilities of most homeowners, make sure to research and hire a professional roofer.

Check to make sure your roofer is insured, licensed and certified. Ask for a written job estimate and references along with warranty information for both the roof you select and his installation services.

2. Even if you can’t see light, air may be moving through gaps in the weather stripping at a surprising rate. On a very cold or hot day, hold the back of your hand an inch or so away from the bottom and perimeter of your door. If you can feel air moving or a significant cold spot, that’s a signal your existing door could benefit from better sealing.

3. Determine what role you would like an entry door to play on your home’s exterior. Do you want it to be a focal point with a splash of color? Is it important that you have decorative glass in the door system? Will you need vented sidelites to allow more light and air into your home? Search the web for “Door Designer” and “My Saved Door” online tools to help visualize how a new door will look on your home.

4. Think about the weather conditions your home’s door faces along with your energy bills. If either run to the extreme, consider replacing your entryway with a high-performance fiberglass door (which has four times more insulation than wood doors).

You can also request features such as the TruDefense® Door System from Therma-Tru Doors that features enhanced weatherstripping, corner seal pad, door bottom sweep and profiled sill that all work together to provide strength and stability in your entry door.

2. Vinyl framed windows are the category of windows with the highest growth rate in the country. Why? These frames are extremely energy-efficient and some of the best have fusion-welded corners and multi-chambered construction. Plus, maintenance hassles are so low you’ll forget the horrors of rotting frames, scraping and repainting that come with wood windows.

2. Take an eagle’s eye look at your home.

Most houses have louvers placed high above the attic or garage space to allow ventilation in those areas. And, most houses have wooden louvers that can rot with time. Replacing louvers with insectresistant and rot-resistant synthetic louvers can improve the home’s appearance and functionality.

3. Investigate your window options and stick with a national manufacturer that can stand behind a long-term warranty. For his renovation project, Clement selected Simonton vinyl windows. The awardwinning company impressed him with its 65-year history and return-on-investment with their ENERGY STAR® qualified windows.

3. Wrap it up. Clement recommends that if you have unsightly porch posts you can easily transform them into showpiece parts of your home by using Column Wrap Kits.

The decorative synthetic pieces can be installed in less than 15 minutes around existing structural posts and columns to give an upgraded look to any home.

4. Remember that a thermally-efficient window is sealed tightest when it’s locked.

So, to keep your energy bills lowers, don’t just close your windows, make sure to lock them.

For more home improvement tips, visit www.myfixituplife.com.

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The Anniston Star • October 16, 2011

Improving Energy Efficiency Tops Wish List When Remodeling Home

Homeowners concerned about high energy bills have put energy conservation home improvements at the top of their must-do list this year. They are looking for green living upgrades that save money without sacrificing space or style.

an increase in fireplace makeovers in the last few years, “Finding and eliminating wasteful drafts has lead many homeowners to install efficient wood stoves and inserts that transform inefficient open fireplaces into high performing heating zones.”

Because heating costs are typically one of the highest and most variable home expenses, homeowners are considering energy-efficient zone heating options when embarking on home renovation projects.

Homes without chimneys or fireplaces can install a Morsø 5660 fireplace insert with an innovative zero-clearance enclosure. This is an excellent zone heating option for those in the process of a renovation or new build looking to outfit their homes with the advanced technology of a fireplace insert and class A chimney.

Craig Shankster, President of Morsø USA, has seen

Since buying a wood stove is much like buying furniture, you will find a wide-choice of models that match every lifestyle and design interest, including antique, traditional, classic or modern.

By installing an energy-efficient wood stove insert into an open fireplace or brick hearth, homeowners optimize heat distribution and lower oil bills.

coninued on page 14

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October 16, 2011 • The Anniston Star

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On your side

Understanding different siding options Stucco remains a popular siding option among homeowners who want to change their home’s aesthetic appeal. it susceptible to mold or mildew. However, some vinyl siding cannot withstand extremely cold weather.

Seemingly from the moment a home is purchased, its new owners start envisioning ways to transform their new pad into their dream home. Once they turn their key for the first time, homeowners enter an empty home and see a blank slate on which they can improve.

But even before homeowners enter their new home, chances are the home’s exterior has inspired a few improvement ideas as well. One of the more common home improvements is changing a home’s exterior siding. Many new homeowners want to change their home’s appearance with siding but might not be sure which option is the best fit for them. The following guide to siding options might help make this decision that much easier for homeowners still on the fence.

• Vinyl: Vinyl siding is a popular choice among homeowners who don’t want to break the bank to change their home’s exterior look. Vinyl siding is one of the more affordable siding options, and many homeowners are attracted to its durability and reputation as a very low-maintenance siding option. Seamless vinyl attracts homeowners because of its aesthetic appeal.

In general, vinyl siding is wind-resistant and unlikely to rot, scratch or blister, and vinyl siding does not attract insects nor is

• Solid wood: Wood siding can last for decades and many homeowners love its oldfashioned appeal. However, homeowners who don’t want the hassle of worrying about their home’s exterior might be better suited to other options, as wood siding can be difficult to maintain. Because wood will expand or contract depending on the season, wood siding is prone to cracking or splitting, and especially humid climates might foster mildew in wood siding. Wood siding typically requires restaining or repainting every few years, and such maintenance is necessary throughout the siding’s lifespan. Proper and routine maintenance of wood siding can also help reduce the risk of termites or mold.

• Aluminum: Durable and affordable, aluminum siding is easier to maintain than wood, though many homeowners still choose wood over aluminum on the basis of aesthetic appeal. Many homeowners often come down to deciding between aluminum and vinyl siding, and environmental concerns might come into play when making that decision. Aluminum siding is considered by many to be the more eco-friendly option, as some feel vinyl siding is bad for the environment and might even negatively affect human health. Aluminum siding is generally wind-resistant and homeowners enjoy its status as a relatively low maintenance siding option.

• Stucco: Many homeowners prefer stucco siding because of its unique makeup that allows them to choose a design and color uniquely their own. A manufactured product made up of cement, lime, sand, and water, stucco is easy to maintain and can last a very long time. Stucco installation, however, is an intricate process and homeowners can expect to pay more for stucco’s installation than they would with other options, even though the installation can be finished very quickly, particularly when compared to wood siding. •

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The Anniston Star • October 16, 2011

Try out pattern, even if it is only on an accent chair in one room of the house. It can add visual dimension to a space.

Don’t be afraid of pattern Many homeowners want to introduce pattern to their rooms but don’t know where to start.

They may wonder if two patterns match or how to determine scale. It may take a little practice, but using pattern is easier than one may think.

Nothing adds visual interest to a room more than pattern and color. While homeowners may have the knack with color, they may shy away from pattern. Individuals can trust their instincts — they’re usually right. For those who have mastered pattern with their wardrobes, it’s time to try out some pattern in home design.

Varying pattern size adds dimension to a room.

Not every pattern should be the same size and variety, otherwise things can look too matched and staged. Try varying patterns of similar colors but experiment with size. For example, place a largely patterned area rug on the floor. An ottoman may feature a medium-sized pattern. Mix things up by alternating throw pillows in a floral or paisley print with subtle stripes. However, make sure the texture of the fabrics match. Gauzy curtains with heavy chenille pillows may clash.

When selecting patterned items, choose similarly colored items. This way even if the fabrics or patterns aren’t exactly the same, they’ll look cohesive through color. For a room to feel a bit more upbeat, consider complimentary opposite colors. If you prefer a more restful atmosphere, try a palette of colors from the same family. Just vary the intensity of the shades.

Homeowners who have gained some pattern confidence may want to strike out on their own to create a room that is unique. Those who still need a little help may want to consider taking the path of designers before them. There are certain patterns and fabrics that have already been established as working together for certain design styles. Here are a few.

• American Southwest: Navajo patterns are at the forefront of this design style and can be used on upholstery or pillows.

Use a smaller-scale stripe on window treatments. Solid-shaded throw pillows in a complementary color to the Navajo pattern will coordinate well.

• English country: This style is about largescale chintz on sofa and draperies. Mix in narrow striped, slip-covered lounge chairs for a little extra panache.

• American country: A small floral print on the sofa or comforter can be offset with a large country quilt pattern hung on the wall as a wall treatment. Checkerboard checks, medium stripes on draperies or select crocheted valences coordinate well.

• 18th century: Lavish patterned fabrics in chintz or paisley featuring golds and robin’s egg blue are just some of the options for classic decorating.

• Modern: Mix stripes and geometric patterned items in splashes of color to add a modern feel to a room.

Individuals can experiment with patterns to make a room more personalized and less of a neutral blank page. If it proves difficult to come up with patterns that work together, look at design magazines or books for some inspiration. •

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October 16, 2011 • The Anniston Star

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11

Don’t overlook the importance of painter’s tape when planning your next paint job.

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Whether you’re an experienced DIYer or painting your first apartment, one of the most important decisions you can make in assuring a quality paint job is the choice of painter’s tape. The right painter’s tape can make all the difference in achieving clean, straight paint lines, and protecting surfaces that you don’t want painted, such as glass, woodwork, wallboard, ceilings, and carpeting.

Before you buy your paint and painting tools, do your homework on the variety of tapes on the market. Read package labels carefully before making your selection. For most surfaces, a premium-quality painter’s tape will do the job.

Here are four essential qualities to consider: Resistance to “bleeding.” One of the biggest problems painters face is paint seeping under — or “bleeding” — beyond tape edges. This can cause messy lines and uneven workmanship, and result in the need for frequent touch ups. One product painting professionals recommend is Bloc-it®, a high performance, professional grade painter’s tape from IPG that’s treated with a proprietary formula that eliminates bleed through, and delivers a consistently clean paint line. An independent comparison study of leading brands of painter’s

tape found that Bloc-it had the least amount of bleed on a painted drywall surface, which is among the most common wall surfaces in homes today.

Flexibility. If you have many architectural features or curved surfaces to paint around, consider tapes with fine crepe paper backing which bend and “drape” easily around light switches, moldings, window sashes, and door frames.

Ease of removal. A lowadhesive tape allows for easy removal, without leaving any residue or damage to the surface to which it is applied.

It’s a good idea to test your tape to make sure it doesn’t pull off the paint; if it does, you’ll need to purchase one with less adhesive.

UV resistance. Look for ratings that indicate the number of days the tape can be left in place and in direct sunlight.

This is important to know to avoid adhesive transfer from the back of the tape to the wall surface.

It’s essential that you educate yourself about the characteristics of painter’s tapes and understand the surfaces you will be working with before you make your tape selection. It’s a decision that will go a long way towards helping you achieve a quality painting job. •

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12

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The Anniston Star • October 16, 2011

Easy and Economical Solutions for Those Postponed Remodeling Plans

by Gale Steves

If you cannot wait any longer to make some much needed changes in your home, you are not alone. Americans are once again getting ready to begin the home improvement process. This pent-up energy often begins in the kitchen, a room that gets a lot of wear and tear but also seems to go out of fashion more quickly these days.

This time around, you will be more cautious like many consumers are with their choices and costs … and yet you want to make observable changes.

The most obvious change is installing a new countertop. Remember that countertops represent 30 percent of the color in any kitchen. Create new excitement by simply replacing your tired, scratched or stained counter

surface with one made from the latest generation of premium laminate.

The latest additions to the popular Wilsonart®HD® High Definition® design series reflect new interest in natural, classic and tumbled marble, limestone and travertine.

The good news is this fashionable look is available without the high cost of stone or the constant maintenance those stones require.

These lighter, less patterned laminate designs are perfect for today’s hectic lifestyle. In fact, the new cost-efficient countertop can be installed within a few hours and without disrupting family life. They also give an existing kitchen the promise of a whole new look that’s universally appealing. That equals a big change for small change.

All of these new designs are available in a new surface effect of a lower matte-gloss sheen that seems almost glazed. The “Glaze” texture is actually a layering of matte features over a glaze of semi-gloss. This creates a timeworn result that is less reflective and more restrained. It’s a perfect balance for the sophisticated dramatic materials that are part of today’s kitchen: stainless steel, chrome, copper, and even glass.

Wilsonart patterns benefit from AEON Enhanced Performance technology, which brings four times the scuff and scratch-resistance of conventional laminate, as well as five times the wear resistance to the surface. Unlike granite, the surfaces of these new laminates are non-porous and never need to be sealed.

Here are some other remodeling ideas that will have high impact without high expense: • Replace your old refrigerator with an energyefficient model. Look in the big box stores for floor models or even those with a little dent on the side, which will never be seen.

• Refresh your cabinets with a coat of paint, and change all the cabinet hardware in the process.

This makes everything look new.

• Swap out your old ceiling light fixture and install under cabinet lighting as well. A little light can make a dramatic difference.

• Change your sink or sinks. Consider a new sink when adding a laminate countertop. These sinks were designed to be mounted to a laminate surface.

Still puzzled by the process or need more help choosing the right color or pattern for your countertop? Visit www.WilsonartHD.com for many good answers.

Gale Steves is a frequent contributor to home design publications.

October 16, 2011 • The Anniston Star

Think

“FRESH”

When Selecting Roof Colors

Thinking about a new roof for your home? Then think “FRESH.” That’s the advice national color expert Kate Smith recommends for homeowners considering a new roof.

“The acronym FRESH stands for fixed features, regional colors, environment, style of home and historic colors,” says Smith, president of Sensational Color.

“Considering these five elements can help you select the perfect roof color.”

FRESH Approach • Fixed Features — These are the permanent design elements of the home that need to be considered a constant feature of the house, such as the foundation, partial stone or brick facades, pathways and retaining walls.

Each feature may be of a different material, but they usually will have a common color or color cast. Once you identify that common color, you can find a roof tile with a similar color or undertone that will work well for the overall home.

For a home with slate tile walkway in shades of gray, Smith recommends a DaVinci Slate Castle Gray combination of three tones of gray in a slate blend.

A predominantly white brick house may look best with a solid slate black Bellaforté roof … or with a Milano blend of grays with a tinge of purple.

• Regional Colors — Each region of the country has prevalent colors based on the housing styles, available materials, natural surroundings and the quality of light. Determine the colors in your area (mostly those you see a great deal of on other homes) to stick with regional colors.

According to Smith, a southwestern style home in the desert may look best with a slate roof comprised of a Sonora blend of medium and dark terracotta colors gently mixed in with light and dark clay colors. Or, West Coast homeowners seeking the feel of real wooden shakes, but the advantages of fire-resistant polymer shakes, can benefit from an Abruzzo color blend of light, medium and dark mountain tones.

• Environment and Surroundings — Is your home in a rural setting or a downtown? Are you near the waterfront, a desert or a mountain? Temper the colors to complement your surroundings and the natural colors around you. The goal is to stand out while still fitting in.

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This polymer roof includes a combination of tan, gray, violet and amber tones to create a blend that highlights the style of this home.

Consider a Mountain blend of multiwidth shake tiles that complement wooded settings or a Chesapeake blend of oceanfront grays for coastal area homes.

medium tan, dark gray and light stone to create a warmer roof appearance.

• Style of the Home — Remember that colors support the home’s style and architecture, not the other way around.

So, determine your home’s style (are you a Ranch? Tudor? Art Deco?

Greek Revival?) and then research to determine what colors are most associated with your style of home.

• Historic Colors — If you live in a historic district, check for local guidelines and/or restrictions on adding colors to your home. More traditional colors, such as whites, browns, and shades of blue and green, work well on historical homes. Match them up with a Tahoe blend of shake roofing tiles with five varying shades of brown and you have a stunning house décor.

For a Craftsman style home, Smith recommends considering a natural looking shake roof in a New Cedar or Weathered Gray color. And, while you can’t go wrong with an elegant solid black roof, she recommends softening the appeal of the roof by considering a combination of neutral tones, such as

Smith suggests “playing” online with the free DaVinci Color Design Program to determine the color roof that works best for your home. There are roofing colors and 28 standard color blends available at www.davinciroofscapes. com to make the roof color decision easy for everyone. •

New Option for Cabinet and Floor Renewal For Northeast Alabama Homeowners and Property Manangers No longer is messy, dusty sanding and refinishing the only option for wood floor and cabinet renewal. Scott Snellgrove, of White Plains, has recently opened a new N-Hance franchise and became one of the newest Chamber members. The new business offers a wood floor and cabinet renewal system that produces like-new luster without the waste, mess and overwhelming chemicals or expense of traditional sanding and refinishing.

For most homeowners and property managers, the replacement of floors and cabinets is unnecessary. Over the years, dirt build-up and age-discolored finishes make wood look flat and lifeless.

Cabinet colors that were once popular and stylish can become outdated. The N-Hance process thoroughly cleans the surface, removes dirt and grease-impregnated coatings, repairs damaged areas and applies an elegant, durable and protective finish. Imagine your guest’s reaction during the holidays as they see those previously tired and dated “Golden Oak” cabinets now look brand new in their updated “Brazilian Cherry” finish. Those tired-looking floors can have a brand new shine just in time for Christmas.

N-Hance’s slogan: “No Dust. No Mess. No Odor.” resonates with folks looking for beautiful, like new cabinets and wood floors without the dust, mess and harmful odors. A floor sanding job that would have taken days might only take hours with N-Hance. A cabinet replacement job that would have taken weeks could be renewed with N-Hance in just a few days. And most jobs are done at a fraction of the cost and time of traditional methods. Convenience, savings and an experience very different from the original home improvement process – what more could someone ask for?

For a consultation call Scott at (256) 282-5269

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The Anniston Star • October 16, 2011

Improving Energy Efficiency

coninued from page 8

While evaluating the right size, heating capacity and look of your future wood stove, we recommend that you also consider these three eco-wise tips: 1. Only evaluate approved wood stoves equipped with a non-catalytic combustion system that exceeds EPA standards and are currently tax credit qualified.

2. Look for an eco-friendly seal and a recycled ingredients label that lists the many ways that a stove manufacturer has gone the extra mile to produce the highest quality and most energy efficient wood stove, possible.

3. Similar to grocery shopping, seek out the equivalent of an “Organic Section” in your local fireplace hearth store to compare the quality standards, eco-wise content, and warranties.

Additionally, if living by green principles is important to you — and it should be — properly burning local wood in a high efficiency wood stove is an environmentallysound action. Given that the use of sustainably-harvested, properly processed and seasoned wood for energy displaces the use of fossil fuels, the result is a net

reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

To learn more about the renewable benefits of local wood energy, utilize educational videos that demonstrate how to fully realize the renewable benefits of local wood energy without beginner missteps or oldschool methods. There are five free videos that teach how to choose, install, operate, maintain, and fuel your wood stove that are available on http://www.morsona.com, Facebook, and YouTube.

DID YOU KNOW?

Radon is a naturally occurring

radioactive gas that comes from the decay of uranium found in most soils. Radon can enter the home by moving up through the ground and into the air above before moving into a home in a variety of ways, including through cracks in solid floors, through construction joints, and through cracks in walls. Gaps in suspended floors and around service pipes are additional entry points for radon. Once radon enters a home, it then becomes trapped inside, where buildup can occur. Radon buildup can potentially be very harmful or even fatal. A radioactive gas, radon is among the leading causes of lung cancer in the United States. In fact, only smoking causes more lung cancer deaths than radon, which can enter a home whether that home is new, old, well-sealed, or drafty. Homeowners concerned about radon, which is invisible and odorless, should have their homes tested. •

Today is a great time to invest in a wood stove so you can actually keep some green cash in your pocket. The Federal Bio-Mass Tax Credit extension provides a 10 percent tax credit up to $300 for the purchase of a new biomass heating appliance in 2011.This tax credit helps homeowners save on energy costs by utilizing renewable biomass fuels such as wood. •

Over 80% of U.S. homes do not meet Department of Energy standards?

R-Value recommendations for our zone are R-30 to R-38 • Does our home meet DOE standards?

• Are you losing valuable energy each month?

We will inspect your attic insulation for free and give you a free estimate on bringing your home up to standard.

PLUS - You will qualify for the Federal Tax Credit for up to 10% of the purchase price - up to $500!

Call Rick Wheeler at 256-831-0540 to schedule your free attic insulation inspection

Scan with your Smartphone to go to our website

1400 Barry Street, Oxford, AL 36203 • 256-831-0540

October 16, 2011 • The Anniston Star

Customize Your Home To Suit Your Lifestyle

Several user-friendly tools will make these projects easier.

• The Rockwell BladeRunner is a portable, multipurpose precision cutter that utilizes any T-Shank jigsaw blades.

The variable speed motor control and simple blade changing mechanism allow you to cut wood, metal, plastic, aluminum and ceramic tile. The 18-lb. tool can be operated on any benchtop surface or mounted to the wall (bracket included).

Homeowners who opt to stay in their homes rather than buy new ones or those who need to reallocate space to accommodate an extended family can create a “new” living environment tailored to their tastes and needs with some well-planned changes. Check out the following tips and tools to help you.

• For quick and easy joinery, choose the Kreg Jig K4 Master System that includes what you need to create strong pocket-hole joints with only a saw and drill.

Envision A New Look Give your entrance a fresh appearance by installing a new front door or painting the existing door. Update your home’s interior with crown molding, chair rails and trim that reflect your tastes and give your living space a unique architectural look. Bring new life to your kitchen by replacing countertops and installing new cabinet hardware — or buying or building new cabinets.

Then Round Up Some Tools & Supplies To Help!

Andrew Bondi, Woodcraft power tool sales manager, “test drives” Mirka’s new Ceros Random-Orbital Sander.

Listen To An Expert Veteran remodeling contractor Danny Lipford, host of Today’s Homeowner (television) and Homefront with Danny Lipford (radio), offers the following advice:

“If you are a beginner DIYer, start with modest projects, and then move on to more ambitious tasks once you have the confidence and a little more experience. Also, do your research to choose the right tools for the job; it will minimize the frustrations.”

• The new Rockwell 3Rill 12V Lithium-Ion Cordless Drill — a three-in-one cordless tool that functions as a drill driver, screwdriver or impact driver — is another handy helper. Use it to drill holes in wood and metal, drive small screws with controlled torque, or fasten bolts or screws with high speed.

• Kreg Crown-Pro Mitersaw Guide gives trim carpenters and DIY enthusiasts alike a fast and easy way to add beautiful crown molding to any room. The Crown-Pro works with molding up to 51⁄2” wide and is easy to use for inside and outside corners.

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• Tackle nearly any sanding task with a 5” or 6” lightweight (2 lbs.) Mirka Ceros Random-Orbital Sander, powered by a brushless DC motor that delivers controlled variable speeds from 4,000 to 10,000 RPMs for an ideal finish in a variety of applications.

• Titebond Molding Glue is specially formulated for finish trim and carpentry, including crown molding, baseboards, and window casings.

• For indoor projects, Waterlox Original and General Finishes Arm-R-Seal Clear Finishes are nearly goof-proof, provide superior results and age well.

• General Finishes Milk Paint is a tough, durable premixed water-based acrylic for both indoor and outdoor applications. Traditional milk paint colors produce a flat finish, but an overcoat can be applied to change the sheen.

• OneTIME Wood, an exterior finish available in five colors, works for new wood or wood that has had a previous coating removed.

• System Three Spar Varnish and Waterlox Marine Finish are exterior coatings suitable for extended duty.

For more information about Woodcraft, contact the store nearest you, visit www.woodcraft.com or call (800) 535-4482.

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