Spring Home and Garden - April 2022

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S HOME and GARDEN Saturday, April 9, 2022

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Saturday, April 9, 2022

SPRING HOME AND GARDEN

Harrisonburg, Va.

Planning ahead is important to a successful renovation

Tips for negotiating with contractors

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emodeling projects are significant undertakings. Homeowners must consider a host of variables before any such project can begin. While planning ahead may take time, it is essential to ensuring successful completion of a renovation project.

Consider these pre-renovation planning pointers to help any job go smoothly.

Determine your motivation for renovating Renovation projects often involve balancing needs and wants, and determining if a project is a necessity or a luxury can set the timeline and course of the project. Is the roof leaking?

If so, immediate action is necessary. Could the kitchen be a bit more functional? If the kitchen is still manageable, a homeowner may be able to wait a little bit to get better prices on appliances or contracting services.

Separating needs from wants helps homeowners map out a viable timeline that maximizes productivity and affordability.

Get professional advice Many homeowners are under the impression that doing the work themselves can save a considerable amount of money. This may be the case for homeowners with renovation experience. But by and large, professional contractors are an asset to any renovation.

They can provide a realistic overview of the project, map out projected costs, point out areas that could be troublesome, and may have industry contacts that can keep supply costs low. Even if a homeowner will do a portion of the job, a contractor can do the bulk

of the work and keep the project on budget.

Get necessary permits Permits are designed to ensure the work is being done to code and in a safe manner.

However, they are not without additional costs and processing time, and that can cause some homeowners to skip this step. According to the home information site The Spruce, building permits cost anywhere from $400 to about $2,200 for new home construction. Building permits for smaller projects can cost $100 or less, and typically are based on a percentage of the anticipated cost of the project.

A permit may be issued the day the application is submitted, while other cities and towns may issue permits up to two or more weeks later.

Factor permit fees and processing times into the renovation plan.

If it comes to light a homeowner did work without a required permit, he or she may face penalties; may have to tear out work done to have it inspected or redone; some may be unable to sell a home until permits have been obtained and work has been done to code.

Homeowners insurance coverage also may be affected if homeowners do not obtain the proper permits.

Other considerations when planning a renovation include writing out a strict budget, gathering inspiration, drawing up to-scale renovation plans, pouring over material reviews, and getting recommendations for reliable professionals to do the job. While not every obstacle can be avoided, planning is a good way to start successfully.

pring is the season for fixing up a home. Homeowners who aren’t interested in doing the work themselves turn to contractors to ensure the job is done not only to code, but on time and efficiently.

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certain seasons or times of year.

General contractors may be more willing to negotiate for a lower price depending on when their busy season may be. Jobs may slow down in winter, for example.

After receiving an initial estimate from a contractor, homeowners may wonder if there is any additional wiggle room in contractors’ costs.

Talk about supplies Even after getting a good bid, you may be able to speak with your contractor about lowering costs even more by choosing less costly supplies. Find out if contractors can source materials from a low-cost supplier. In addition, discuss if you can purchase your own supplies.

Certain contractors are willing to negotiate while others are firm in their prices. However, learning the basics of negotiation can put homeowners in position to save money on dream renovations.

Do your homework Getting the best price typically requires shopping around and not settling on the first bid. Experts recommend getting at least three estimates on the same job — and be sure to let each contractor know that you are soliciting multiple bids.

This alone may entice a specific contractor to give you his or her best offer up front. Avoid simply choosing the lowest bid. Look at quality of work, reputation and reviews. If you like a costly contractor more than another, see if that contractor is willing to match a lower bid to win the job.

Pick the right season As with other industries, home renovation work heats up during

Ask to do a portion Be honest with the contractor about your budget and figure out if there is any way for you to do some of the work to lower costs. The contractor can give you jobs that are within your abilities, which can shave dollars off the final price.

Know your rights and laws Understand the laws governing contract language in your state or province. Contracts should also spell out the change order process so that expectations of changes and costs will be known in advance.

These are just some of the tactics homeowners can use when negotiating the price of home remodels or improvements.

Harrisonburg, Va.

SPRING HOME AND GARDEN

Saturday, April 9, 2022

3

The basics of container gardening

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ardening is a rewarding hobby that has been linked to health benefits like reduced stress and improved mental well-being. Gardening also can lead to an inviting home landscape full of attractive blooms and/or delicious foods.

Backyard gardens have long been planted after clearing a plot of land, tilling and amending the soil, and planting rows of favorite crops. However, gardening can be less labor-intensive and even more successful when people consider the many benefits of container gardening.

What is container gardening?

As its name implies, container gardening is growing plants inside of containers. These containers can be flower pots, rectangular deck boxes or even large raised garden beds.

Pros to container gardening Grouping plants together can create visually stunning combinations. However, it is important to choose plants that require the same amount of light and moisture. Look at plant tags when visiting the garden center and select complementary plants, or ask a store employee. Mixing different plant shapes, colors and leaf textures, as well as plants of various heights, can help containers look filled out.

select complementary plants, or ask a store employee. Mixing different plant shapes, colors and leaf textures, as well as plants of various heights, can help containers look filled out.

important to choose plants that require the same amount of light and moisture. Look at plant tags when visiting the garden center and select complementary plants, or ask a store employee. Mixing different plant shapes, Cons to container gardening colors and leaf textures, as well as plants Grouping plants together can create visually Feed plants accordingly stunning combinations. However, it is Grouping plants together can create visually of various heights, can help containers look important to choose plants that require the stunning combinations. However, it is filled out. same amount of light and moisture. Look at plant tags when visiting the garden center and Custom Cabinets select complementary plants, or ask a store Made Locally Herbs • Vegetables employee. Mixing different plant shapes, From Design To Installa on all of our cabinets are built on-site and colors and leaf textures, as well as plants Annuals • Perennials customized to exceed your of various heights, can help containers look Bedding Plants • Succulents expecta ons. filled out. .

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Plan for plants that play well Grouping plants together can create visually stunning combinations. However, it is important to choose plants that require the same amount of light and moisture. Look at plant tags when visiting the garden center and

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Saturday, April 9, 2022

SPRING HOME AND GARDEN

Pros and cons to open-concept homes

Harrisonburg, Va.

Popular insect repellant plants Lavender: Fleas, flies, mosquitoes, and moths are not fans of this aromatic and colorful member of the mint family.

Bees tend to be drawn to lavender, a durable plant that many garden centers recommend in areas prone to drought or hot summers without much precipitation.

pen-concept homes have become increasingly popular in recent years.

An open-concept home is one in which the rooms flow into one another with limited obstruction from walls or other barriers.

According to the National Association of Home Builders,

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A smaller home can feel much larger if it employs an open concept. The square footage is not divided into smaller quarters, which sometimes are rooms (such as formal dining rooms) that are only used a few times per year.

This eliminates underused spaces and opens up sight lines in the layout.

84 percent of new single-family homes have fully or partially open layouts.

The value of real estate has risen dramatically since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and prospective buyers may prefer an open-concept plan because it can help them minimize building costs.

While they may seem like a new trend, open floor plans are anything but. Early American homes featured open, often one- or two-room units built around the central kitchen/hearth. This maximized warmth and functionality. Homes evolved as incomes grew, and soon homes had several smaller rooms with specialized functions.

What’s old has become new again. However, before diving head first into a new home purchase or a big renovation to realize an openconcept dream, consider the pros and cons of this type of setup to determine if it’s really right for you.

Advantages of open floor plans Open floor plans facilitate the flow of natural light throughout a space and can promote air flow, helping to reduce warm or cool pockets of air in otherwise closed-off rooms.

Open homes make socializing easier, even when people are doing different things. While someone is cooking dinner in the kitchen, he or she can still interact with someone else playing video games in the family room or paying bills in the home office. Entertaining also is easier, as mingling with guests is much more convenient when walls are not getting in the way.

Disadvantages of open floor plans Open layouts are not for everyone. The same sense of space that occurs when walls are taken down may make rooms feel cavernous and less cozy, particularly in homes with ample square footage. In addition, privacy can be hard to come by when all rooms feed into one another.

When the kitchen is not separate from the family room space, that makes it easy for noise to compromise the area’s comfort levels. There is no hiding from noise in an open floor plan, as sounds from voices, television shows and appliances tend to echo and blend together.

And if the home is a single-story layout, those noises from the main living areas also may carry to adjacent bedrooms.

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omeowners choose plants for their properties based on a number of variables. Some may be into growing their own foods, while others desire their gardens to be an awe-inspiring mélange of bright colors and alluring scents. There’s no wrong reason to plant a fresh garden, but some plants offer extra benefits, such as repelling insects.

Insects can be a nuisance and a threat to individuals’ overall health. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, insect-borne diseases are viral and bacterial illnesses that develop from insect bites. Mosquitoes, sand flies and fleas are some examples of insects that can pass on disease. Fever, chills, headache, and muscle soreness are just a few of the more common symptoms linked to insect-borne diseases.

The good news for avid gardeners is that certain plants can help repel insects and provide the additional benefits like fresh food and aesthetic appeal that so many people love.

Basil: The aroma of fresh basil is enough to compel any gardener to make a place for it in their garden.

But there’s more to fresh basil than its scent, as the Farmers Almanac notes

Smoke and smells are another thing to consider. When something on the stove spills over, a small range hood will not be practical for clearing smoke from a large space. Though the aroma of freshly cooked food is enticing, it can make it hard for cooks to keep guests out of the kitchen.

Open-concept homes are popular, but homeowners should weigh the pluses and minuses to see if this trend is truly right for them.

it can be used to repel mosquitoes and moths.

Mint: Mint is another plant that is instantly recognizable for its aroma. But mint lovers may not realize that it’s also great for keeping ants at bay. Mint also can be used to repel mosquitoes, but gardeners with no experience planting mint should plant

it in pots. That’s because the Farmers Almanac notes mint is an especially aggressive spreader that can quickly take over a garden. Separating mint in pots can prevent it from bullying its way into other plants’ domains.

Lemongrass: Lemongrass is a tropical grass that’s so fragrant it’s often used in perfumes. Lemongrass contains citronella, which many people associate with repelling mosquitoes. A potted lemongrass plant can repel these unwanted guests, keeping them away from decks, porches and/or patios all summer long.

Chrysanthemums: The Farmers’ recommends using Almanac® chrysanthemums, which repel a range of insects from bedbugs to fleas to ants, as border plants around a home.

That’s because they contain the natural insecticide pyrethrin, which can serve as something of an insect-repelling boundary around a home.

Insects are unwanted guests around a home each spring, summer and fall.

Certain plants can help repel insects and serve as an eco-friendly alternative to insecticides.

Harrisonburg, Va.

SPRING HOME AND GARDEN

Saturday, April 9, 2022

5

Use hardiness zones for thriving veggie gardens

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egetables need a certain number of growing days with ideal conditions in order to mature and produce a viable yield. These conditions vary depending on the vegetables being grown, with plants thriving in key zones across the country. The gardening resource Fine Gardening says certain vegetable varieties are specially bred for, or may be best suited to,

certain climates. Knowing which vegetables are ideal for where you live can give your garden the best chances for success.

The first step is reviewing the USDA Hardiness Zone Map to determine your specific climate zone. Canada also has a Plant Hardiness Zone map. These maps are based on the extreme minimum temperatures in the zones, and can

be a useful tool in determining which plants will thrive where you live.

Additional variables to consider include the amount of precipitation the area gets, average humidity, maximum temperatures, and soil conditions. Here’s a look at the best produce for certain regions of the country based on hardiness zones.

Zones 1 and 2

Zones 5 and 6

Zones 9 and 10

Located in Alaska, the northern continental United States, high mountains, and the upper latitudes of Canada, this zone features long, cold winters and the shortest growing season (April to September). The best plants will be those that require short intervals between planting and harvest, like asparagus, lettuce, kale, broccoli, and vine tomatoes.

Zones 5 and 6 encompass much of the continental United States, the southernmost Canadian provinces and coastal Nova Scotia. The growing season in zones 5 and 6 starts in March and can extend into October. Try melons, squashes, corn, strawberries, lettuce and other greens, and tomatoes in these zones.

These zones include the deep South of the United States, Florida, southern California, and much of the Gulf coast.

The growing season is quite long, ranging from February to November.

In addition to much of the previously mentioned produce, plants like peppers, citrus, yams, peaches, figs and bananas have the best chances of success in these zones.

Zones 7 & 8 Zones 3 and 4 This zone encompasses the uppermost United States and cool mountain regions, as well as wide swaths of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec. The growing season in zones 3 and 4 lasts from April to October.

Vine tomatoes, broccoli, kale, lettuces, spinach, strawberries, sweet peas, pole beans, and potatoes are some of the plants that will do well in these zones.

With a growing season from March to November, these zones are marked by long, hot summers and mild winters, conditions common to the southwest and many southern states. Corn, tomatoes, melons, collard greens, carrots, and others are good choices for this region.

Enclose that Pool,

Zones 11 to 13 These are the most tropical zones and are found in Hawaii and Puerto Rico.

Growing seasons in zones 11 to 13 extend year-round. Only plants that require the coldest temperatures (sub-40 F) will not do well here.

Knowing the hardiness zone can help gardeners choose the best plants for their gardens.

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Saturday, April 9, 2022

SPRING HOME AND GARDEN

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Harrisonburg, Va.

SPRING HOME AND GARDEN

Did you know?

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omeowners should give due consideration to whether or not plants are considered invasive species before introducing new plants on their properties. According to the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration, invasive species of plants can lead to the extinction of native plants and animals. Invasive plant species also can reduce biodiversity and cause significant fundamental disruptions to local ecosystems. Though nonnative plants are often cherished for their unique looks, homeowners planting new gardens or supplementing existing gardens with new plants are urged to plant only native species. Such an approach benefits plants and also local wildlife that depends on native plant species for food and cover.

Saturday, April 9, 2022

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What is a HELOC? H

omes symbolize many different things, including an investment in one’s future.

Bank of America says a home equity line of credit, often referred to a a HELOC, is a line of credit secured by your home. It is a revolving as c credit line that can be used for various expenses. The Credit Union of S Southern California reports that a HELOC credit line is issued by a lender a has a limit and variable interest rate that is secured by the equity in and yo home. your

AH HELOC is similar to a credit card in that they both provide revolving credit.

Investo Investopedia says revolving credit is an agreement that permits an account holder to borrow money repeatedly up to a set dollar limit while also repaying a portion of the current balance due in regular payments over time. But unlike credit cards that may have high interest rates, the interest rates of HELOCs often are lower — a significant advantage when paying off large amounts of borrowed money.

Home equity accessed through a HELOC can be a great source of value for future renovations, large purchases such as cars, educational expenses, and alternative debt repayment. The credit limit of a HELOC depends on your credit standing and unpaid debts. It also is determined by the market value of the home and how much you owe on your mortgage. According to Credit Karma, banks tend to limit the amount borrowed to no more than 85 percent of the appraised value of the home, minus what is owed on the mortgage. HELOC terms also vary, but they can run for as long as 30 years.

Even though there are many benefits to HELOCs, there is a downside to using a home as collateral.

Investopedia says home equity lenders place a second lien on the home (in addition to the first mortgage lien). Defaulting on HELOC payments can result in legal action and a home being repossessed. Another potential pitfall is a lender may reduce or freeze your credit line after missed payments. Even though banks attempt to limit how much can be borrowed through HELOCs to help avoid potentially negative situations, they are not without risk.

Borrowers considering a HELOC have other options, including home equity loans. Homeowners can speak with financial advisors to learn more about their options for maximizing equity in their homes.

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Saturday, April 9, 2022

SPRING HOME AND GARDEN

All-natural ways to protect food gardens from pests

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omeowners frequently enhance their outdoor living spaces with attractive plants and trees.

When that greenery also produces food, the results can be both beauty and bounty.

People who plant vegetable gardens and fruit trees in their yards can be blessed with an abundance of fresh pickings once it’s time to harvest.

In fact, many home gardeners may have visions of warm evenings pulling vegetables right out of the garden and tossing them on the grill or in salads.

But insects and animals enjoy fresh produce just as people do. The joy of harvesting from a garden can be diminished when unwanted guests have gotten there first.

Homeowners can employ these allnatural strategies to protect their fruits and vegetables from lawn pests and critters.

Plant gardens in raised beds.

Though they’re not a fool-proof deterrent, raised beds can eliminate some garden infiltration by small critters that come up and under from the ground. A raised garden bed can deter rabbits, gophers, groundhogs, slugs, and some other crawling pests.

Raised beds also are ergonomical and easily accessible.

Prepare homemade insecticide.

The environmental information site Treehugger provides information on making a homemade insecticide from vegetable oil and a mild soap. Use one cup of oil with one tablespoon of soap (such as Dr. Bronner’s castile soap).

Add this mixture to one quart of water in a spray bottle. This concoction can

eradicate aphids, mites, thrips, and more by coating insects’ bodies and effectively suffocating them. Soapand-water sprays or even neem oil sprays work similarly.

Sprinkle diatomaceous earth.

Diatomaceous earth, commonly known as DE, is an abrasive powder comprised of fossilized algae diatoms.

It’s commonly used as a filter medium in swimming pools, but also makes an effective pesticide. The material’s abrasive and absorbent qualities draw moisture out of insects, essentially dehydrating them to death. DE can be sprinkled around the base of plants, but will need to be reapplied after rain and watering.

Space out plants. One way to reduce insect or animal pest numbers is to ensure ample space between plants. Tightly planted crops create a breeding ground for fungal diseases and also provide hiding spots and warmth for pests. Leaving room between plants can help avoid these issues, according to Gardening Channel.

Use row covers or garden mesh.

Specialized covers and meshes protect fruit and vegetables against insects and animals. Many plants can be covered all year long as long as the covers are lifted during flowering if the crops depend on pollination by bees.

Veggiemesh® is a cover that can be laid over plants.

Interplant crops in the garden.

Interplanting is a technique that involves alternating crops, herbs and flowers to confuse the pests so they have a difficult time finding what they want to eat. Alternate rows of vegetables with herbs and flowers that appeal to beneficial insects.

Keeping pesky insects and animals from damaging food gardens can involve techniques that are safe and natural.

Harrisonburg, Va.

Signs a roof needs repair or replacement

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any homeowners believe a roof is Architectural shingles a once-in-a-lifetime investment. But roof damage can force homeowners can endure for to replace a roof regardless of how much 15 to 20 years. time has lapsed since the roof was installed.

The average life span of a roof depends Tile may last between on when the roof was installed and the materials it is made from. According to 35 and 50 years.

Central Homes Roofing, three-tab shingles may last between 10 and 15 years, RPS Metal Roofing architectural shingles can endure for 15 to 20 years, and tile may last between 35 and indicates a metal roof 50 years. RPS Metal Roofing indicates a may last as long metal roof may last as long as 70 years.

However, climate and color of the roof also as 70 years will affect its longevity.

Homeowners would be wise to consider wear, it could be time to repair or replace it. these factors when determining if a roof is • Curled shingle edges: If shingle tabs are curled or cupped, the shingles may need in need of repairs or replacement. to be replaced. But if curling is extensive, a whole new roof may need to be installed.

• Roof age: The age of the roof is a major factor in determining if it will need to be • Bald spots or lost portions of the roof: replaced or if repairs can be made to Missing granules and missing shingles isolated damage. Individuals who live in are reasons to consult a pro for a roof neighborhoods where neighbors are now evaluation. replacing roofs will likely find it is time to • Leaks indoors: Homeowners who find consult a roofing company. Homeowners dark streaks or moisture in the attic may also can check to see if they have any discover that water is penetrating the roof receipts that indicate the roof’s installation underlay. Water often comes in around chimney flashing. Other water signs are date so they have an idea about its age.

• Grain in gutters: Roofing shingles are blistering and bubbling in walls. designed to overlap, and sealant keeps • Incoming light: Look up through the attic them steady. Friction, weather and and see if any light is coming through the atmospheric changes can impact sealant roof, which may indicate there are cracks and cause degradation. Gutters with grainy or holes in the roof. material in them could indicate worn out • Aesthetics: If a homeowner doesn’t like sealant and shingles. the look of the roof from a design standpoint, • Ridge damage: Ridges are spots where a replacement also may be warranted. two separate areas meet and often are Roofs can last many years, but the presence important to the structural integrity of the of certain signs indicates replacement or roof. If the roof ridge is showing signs of repairs will be necessary.

Harrisonburg, Va.

SPRING HOME AND GARDEN

Saturday, April 9, 2022

How to prepare landscapes for new plants

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ew plants can add much to a landscape.

Whether they’re replacing plants that are no longer thriving or being added to supplement an existing landscape, new plants are an affordable way to give a home’s exterior a whole new look.

Much consideration is given to which plants to add to a landscape. That’s understandable, as homeowners want to choose plants that will thrive and won’t compromise the health of surrounding plants and trees. Before planting or even choosing plants, it’s important to plan for new additions to a landscape.

Preparing the landscape can inform homeowners about which plants to purchase and can ensure they thrive after planting.

Document sunlight exposure. Plants have different needs, and one of the biggest differences between species is the amount of sunlight they need to thrive. According to Penn State Extension, plants characterized as “full sun” require six or more hours of sunlight per day, while those considered “partial sun” need between four and six hours of sunlight per day. Plants designated as “partial shade” need two to four hours of sun per day, while “shade” plants need less than two hours of sunlight a day.

Documenting sunlight exposure in advance gives homeowners an idea of which plants should be planted and where they should be planted. Jot down these observations in a journal over several weeks and then choose plants that will thrive in each area.

Test the soil. A soil pH test is a simple and quick way to determine the acidity of soil. Soil pH levels will indicate how likely a plant is to thrive in a given spot. High levels won’t necessarily mean an area should be avoided, as some plants thrive in acidic soils. Additional soil tests can determine other characteristics, such as the nutrient levels of soil and the amount of organic matter it contains. Each of these variables can help homeowners make the right choices as they introduce new plants to their properties.

Consider local wildlife. If local wildlife makes its presence known on a property, homeowners may want to take proactive steps prior to planting anything new. A new fence might prevent animals like deer from getting in, but that likely won’t do much to repel smaller animals like squirrels, rabbits or foxes. If wildlife is a concern, homeowners can seek advice at their local garden center about which plants certain animals are likely to ignore. Homeowners who want to attract wildlife can do the same in reverse, choosing plants wildlife will be drawn to. Homeowners who want to deter wildlife should erect fencing or other barriers prior to planting.

Clear space if necessary. Plants grow up and out, and cramped quarters can make it hard for new plants to thrive. Some may thrive but only at the expense of other plants. If necessary, clear space prior to planting to ensure plants have ample space to grow.

Some pre-planting landscape preparation can ensure new plants thrive.

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DANGEROUS DIFFERENCE? If you see winged, ant-like insects flying around your property, you need to know whether they are ants or subterranean termites. Your house could be in danger! Carefully compare the insects flying around your house to the illustration below.

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Elbowed Antennae

Straight Antennae

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SPRING HOME AND GARDEN

Saturday, April 9, 2022

Harrisonburg, Va.

Budget-friendly ways to upgrade a landscape Add a pop of color with planters.

Awe-inspiring colors can make a landscape stand out from surrounding properties. Flowers, bushes and plants may be the first thing homeowners consider when trying to add color to their lawns, but planters can provide a more immediate way to give exterior grounds some color. Bold planters won’t lose their color in a matter of weeks like many flowers do, and homeowners can switch planters so the colors align with the season. For example, some pastel planters can evoke the spirit of spring, while orange planters can be filled with mums to give a landscape an autumnal feel.

Plant perennials around the property.

Well-maintained perennials grow back each year, making them ideal for homeowners who don’t have the time or desire to map out new gardening A new walkway is a small project that can still offer a significant arrangements each spring. Planting upgrade over a home’s existing landscape. perennials also is a great way to add color around the property without n inviting, well-tended landscape from simple changes that can be breaking the bank. can add significant curb appeal accomplished on a weekend afternoon to to a home. Such a landscape more significant and costly undertakings also can serve as a point of pride and that require the work of a professional. Upgrade walkways. welcome homeowners each evening as Budget-conscious homeowners may Though it’s more expensive than adding be looking for simpler projects, and the they arrive home from work. following are some less costly ways to planters and planting perennials, Landscaping projects run the gamut upgrade a landscape. upgrading old and cracked walkways is

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t’s no secret that a good-looking lawn can entice buyers when selling a home, but homeowners may not realize just how much they can benefit from even the smallest investments of time and money in their home exteriors. According to the Top Agent Insights Q2 2019 Report from HomeLight, low-cost outdoor home improvements to a landscape provide sizable returns on investment.

For example, the report found that a $268 investment in a lawn care service

a great way to give a property a whole new look. According to the renovation experts at HomeAdvisor, homeowners typically pay between $6 and $12 per square foot for new concrete walkway installation. Homeowners working on a budget can target spots where walkways have already cracked and fix those areas first before continuing the project piecemeal until all the old walkways have been replaced.

Plant to create privacy. Homeowners spent more time at home than ever before during the pandemic, and some might have grown tired of seeing what their neighbors are up to. Fencing might be the first solution homeowners consider when looking to make their landscapes more private. But new fencing installation can be expensive, costing homeowners between $1,667 and $4,075 on average, according to BobVila.com. A more costly and natural solution is to plant trees around the perimeter. Speak with a local landscaping professional, who can survey the property to see which trees might thrive and provide the privacy homeowners want.

Creating an inviting landscape doesn’t have to break the bank. Various small and relatively inexpensive projects can change the look and feel of a home’s exterior.

can lead to a $1,211 increase in home value at resale. Similarly, $340 worth of fresh mulch can increase home value at resale by $769. More than 85 percent of real estate professionals who participated in the HomeLight survey recommended other small and simple projects, including removing dirt, grime and cobwebs from a home entrance and trimming trees and shrubs prior to putting a home on the market.

Harrisonburg, Va.

SPRING HOME AND GARDEN

Saturday, April 9, 2022

11

7 things to know before replacing windows T

he decision to replace windows often comes down to aesthetics and necessity. Drafty windows can reduce energy efficiency in a home, requiring HVAC systems to work harder to keep interiors comfortable. The harder the HVAC must work, the more homeowners will pay in energy costs.

Old windows also may be points of entry for water and insects. Despite the importance of windows, Money magazine advises that new windows make up only a fraction of the home’s total exterior “envelope,” resulting in only about 5 to 15 percent of total energy savings.

But there are still plenty of reasons to invest in new windows.

1. Vinyl or aluminum may be best. Lumber is farmed rather quickly today and solid wood products may not stand up to elements as well as wood used a halfcentury ago. To avoid rot, vinyl windows often are an affordable and durable choice. Homeowners also have the option of wood windows with aluminum cladding, which are long-lasting.

2. Moisture problems indicate windows need to be replaced. Condensation that shows up as fogging between double-pane windows or on the inside of windows indicates that the windows are starting to fail.

If installing a vapor barrier in the basement or crawl space, ventilating properly when showering or cooking, or using a dehumidifier indoors does not remedy the situation, it might be time to replace windows.

3. Windows add curb appeal. Beyond functionality, replacement windows immediately update the look of the home and can improve curb appeal since they are

one of the most prominent features on the exterior of a choosing the wrong windows might lower the value home. If a house needs an update, replacing windows of the home. It’s important to match the look of the original windows, including window material and the and can be a quick and affordable update. divided light pattern (the number of panes in each 4. Consider other energy-efficient upgrades. window) with the original windows.

Sometimes older windows can be salvaged, especially if they are not damaged and only moderately drafty. 6. Think about soundproofing, too. When upgrading Replacing panes, sash cords, weather stripping, and windows, also think about how certain windows can even glazing may be less expensive than replacing cancel out noises and make homes more soundproof. a window. Plus, older homes with attractive windows Some windows can help reduce outdoor distractions complement one another. To keep energy bills down, like leaf blowers or lawn mowers. think about adding insulation to the attic and basement — which is a good idea even if you are replacing 7. Proper installation is key to longevity.

Replacement windows are only as good as their windows. installation in many cases. Poor installation and 5. The wrong windows can adversely affect home orders of standard rather than custom sized windows value. The National Association of Realtors says could result in poor fitting and seals. Homeowners homeowners get about 73 percent of their replacement should carefully vet and review window replacement window investment back when they resell a home. But contractors to find the best professionals for the job.

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SPRING HOME AND GARDEN

Saturday, April 9, 2022

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JamesRiverEquipment.com/FreeFuel Scan for Details *Offer ends 5/31/2022. Valid on in-stock or new order John Deere 1- 4 Series models and qualifying, select John Deere or Frontier implements (front loaders and belly mowers qualify). Fuel card will be issued in the amount of $250 upon purchase. Some restrictions may apply. See James River for complete details.

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