Home and Garden, Spring and Summer 2021

HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

A supplement of the Lewiston Tribune and Moscow-Pullman Daily News

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HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

April 1, 2021

SPRING CLEANING CHECKLIST Spring cleaning is a chance for a fresh start.

Green Shoot Media After a long winter spent cooped up at home, spring is a natural time to declutter, clean and organize your home. Here is a checklist of spring cleaning jobs to remember. You can go it alone, or consider hiring a local cleaning service to help you really make your home shine.

MarthaStewart.com recommends replenishing your cleaning supplies before you get started. That way you’ll have all the tools you need for the job.

• Basic cleaning. Sweep, mop, vacuum, clean toilets, the works. This is the time to tackle deep-cleaning jobs you’ve been putting off. Sanitize the hard-to-reach area behind the toilet. Scrub off caked-on soap scum and grime on the bathroom faucet.

Really get in there and finish the job.

• Once-in-a-while jobs. This is the time to clean the oven, open all the windows and clean the tracks, glass and screens. Degrease the kitchen cabinet doors and hinges. Give the refrigerator a deep clean, including

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the door seals and glass. Defrost the freezer, if needed. Deep clean the kitchen sink disposal. Polish any silver.

Dust the blinds and wash or vacuum the curtains. Shampoo rugs. Clean washing machine seals. Dust and

wipe down baseboards and crown molding. Clean and sanitize remote controls. Check or replace smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries.

Replace air filters. Dust and clean light fixtures and ceiling fans. Vacuum refrigerator coils. Flip mattresses.

Wash comforters and other large bedding, or take them to the cleaners.

Reseal grout. Polish or wax wooden furniture. Wax flooring.

• Seasonal maintenance.

Clean gutters. Clean and repair outdoor furniture. Pressure wash the deck or patio. Clean any debris from the roof. Consider having your air conditioning unit cleaned and serviced.

• Declutter. Spring is a great time to go through adults’ and kids’ closets to see which clothes no longer fit or have holes/stains. Make a donation pile and organize the remaining SPRING CLEANING continued on page 19

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HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

SHOPPING FOR SOLAR A solar array is installed in America every two minutes, according to community solar advocates Solstice.

Green Shoot Media With solar getting more affordable, more homeowners are jumping on board, having solar panels installed on their homes. Given the newness of solar energy, however, knowing what to look for while shopping for solar panels can be tricky.

The U.S. Department of Energy offers a primer for homeowners called “Homeowner’s Guide to Going Solar.” The website (bit.ly/3rIT1xk) covers the basics of how solar energy works, how to determine if your home is suitable for a solar installation, and the financial and safety considerations involved.

determining whether your home is suitable for solar panels. In general, you will need to own your home and have a newer roof with a south-facing slope that isn’t obscured by excessive shade. Each individual solar company will have its own requirements.

FINANCIAL MATTERS You can buy solar panels outright, finance them with a loan, or lease panels. With a loan or lease, your monthly payments could be lower than your monthly electricity bill, but you will be locked into a long-term contract. Another option is a power purchase agreement, through which a consumer agrees to purchase power

HOME SUITABILITY Many factors are considered in

SOLAR continued on page 19

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HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

April 1, 2021

STAY IN THE KNOW ON RECALLS Green Shoot Media

In December 2020, a U.S. ceiling fan manufacturer recalled nearly 200,000 fans due to a risk of the fan blades detaching during use, causing injury and property damage. It’s important to keep tabs on recalled products that might be laying around your house with the potential to do harm.

You might think you have nothing to worry about, but in December 2020 alone, the CPSC issued recalls of dozens of household items, including the following: all-terrain vehicles, home energy storage batteries, gas camping stoves, portable baby sleepers, tents, flashlights, pole saws, bicycles, cell phone chargers, multi-cookers and more. The risks include burns, fire hazards, fall risks, suffocation and more.

To stay in the know, regularly visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s recall website at www.

cpsc.gov/Recalls. You can also sign up for e-mails about recalls in specific categories of products.

IN CASE OF RECALL If you own a recalled product, the company that produced the product may offer repair, replacement or a refund. You may not need your receipt, so it’s important to always look into rectifying the situation.

If you do receive a replacement product or refund, you will likely be required to destroy and dispose of the faulty product safely to keep it off the market.

SELL SMART If you’re planning a rummage sale or selling goods through the classifieds or an online marketplace, do your part to help keep dangerous products out of the marketplace by checking the CPSC website for recalls. Selling recalled products is

illegal, not just for retailers but for individual sellers. If you find a product is recalled, immediately destroy and dispose of it to help keep others safe.

Many baby cribs with drop sides, as well as most cribs manufactured before June 2011, have been recalled

and should not be resold. Check out the CPSC’s publication “Resellers Guide to Selling Safer Products” at https://bit.ly/3rFFdnj.

RECALLS continued on page 19

April 1, 2021

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HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

SPRING PRUNING BASICS

Green Shoot Media

globe thistle seed heads are great food for birds, so leave them be until early spring, while coral bells, delphiniums, hostas, turtleheads and mums need the protection of their foliage during winter. Don’t cut them back until spring.

Many perennial plants need a spring pruning. Their foliage may provide protection during the winter, but by spring, it’s time to prune in order to encourage new growth. This means pruning is an essential part of your spring gardening plans.

Here are some pruning basics to get you started.

PRUNING TOOLS It’s important to keep your pruning tools sharp. While a plant can easily recover form a clean cut, a botched cut can weaken the plant and make the plant susceptible to disease.

Sharpen shears and clippers, and oil moving parts to keep them working smoothly.

WHEN TO PRUNE According to the Old Farmers Almanac, the timing of pruning a tree or shrub depends mostly on when it blooms and whether it blooms on old or new growth. In general, plants that flower after midsummer should be pruned in the spring, while those that bloom in winter, spring and early summer should be pruned soon after flowering.

Burger Farm and Garden Center reminds gardeners that while an ill-timed pruning may lead to fewer

flowers and fruits, it is rarely fatal to the plant.

WHAT TO PRUNE Fruit trees such as apple, cherry, peach and plum, and vines such as trumpet vine and wisteria, should

be pruned in early spring. Springflowering shrubs such as lilacs and rhododendrons need to be pruned as soon as their early-spring blooms have faded. This will help ensure a good bloom next year. According to TheSpruce.com, Black-eyed Susan, gayfeather, purple coneflower and

HOW TO PRUNE Some plants need more aggressive pruning than others. Consult the Old Farmers Almanac or your local

PRUNING continued on page 19

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HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

April 1, 2021

PROTECT YOUR SIDING WARRANTY Your home’s siding protects the structure of your home, but what protects your siding? The warranty.

Green Shoot Media

will be more expensive. Consider how much the protection is worth to Whether you’re shopping for new you. Would you have room in your siding or interested in maintaining budget to replace siding in a situation the value of your current siding, it’s in which the materials and labor important to understand how siding would not be covered? It might be warranties work. That way you’ll know worth spending a little more upfront to what will be covered and what will prevent major expenses later. not, and you can maintain your siding Coverage limits. What’s covered accordingly. by the warranty will also vary among Labor or materials. Your siding manufacturer, product grade and manufacturer will likely provide a material. A warranty may include warranty on the siding itself. The protection from insects, hale, rot, installer might warranty the installation delamination, excessive fading, job, to be sure it’s installed in peeling, cracking, rusting, corroding accordance with the manufacturer’s and more. Warranties will differ specifications. Your installer should be based on the material. Wood siding able to explain the warranty options is much more susceptible to damage for both. In general, warranties that from things like water and insects, last longer or provide more protection whereas composite siding is much

more durable, with the ability to resist severe weather and repel insects.

Term. The term of the loan is another important consideration.

Many manufacturers offer a limited lifetime warranty. If the warranty covers only a set period, such as 50 years, check whether the warranty is

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pro-rated. This means that the older the siding is at the time of a claim, the less the manufacturer will pay. If you are remodeling a home to sell or intend to sell in the near future, WARRANTY continued on page 18

April 1, 2021

HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

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PLANT SUMMER-BLOOMING BULBS Green Shoot Media Spring is the time to plant summerblooming bulbs, such as dahlias, gladiolas, lilies, calladiums and elephant ears. Bulbs should be stored in a cool, dry place until all danger of frost has passed. Then it’s time to plant.

WHEN TO PLANT

the bulb should face up. The roots should face down. Give the bulbs a good watering. Continue watering whenever the soil is dry. Keep in mind that over-watering can cause the bulb to rot.

MIND YOUR SOIL Most bulbs need rich soil, so mix some compost into your soil for the best results, especially if your soil is heavy clay or has poor drainage.

Loamy or slightly sandy soil is ideal.

Exactly when you plant will depend on what planting zone you live in.

According to GardenDesign.com, in colder climates such as USDA Zones 4 to 7, summer-flowering bulbs should The best way to prevent weeds is be planted in mid to late spring (May to add 2-3 inches of mulch on top to June), and in Zones 8 to 10, in early of your flowerbeds. Bulbs can easily to mid-spring (late March to May). grow up through the mulch. Weeds will have a harder time. Weed barrier fabric is not idea to use when The best resource for knowing planting bulbs, because it can prevent how deep to plant your bulbs is the moisture from reaching the roots of the packaging they came in. In general, developing bulb. If you must use weed dig a hole that’s 2-3 times as deep barrier fabric, cut slits in the fabric at as the bulb is tall. The pointy side of the site of each bulb.

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PLANT FOR VISUAL EFFECT Consider when your flowers will bloom to provide blooms all season long. Different plants bloom at different times during the season.

Others, such as such as seedum, daylilies, hosta or bleeding heart,

will bloom repeatedly until late fall or provide consistent, rich foliage.

Mix up your plantings so that your flowerbeds provide visual interest all season long.

Consult Longfield Gardens’ Bloom Time Chart for Spring and Summer Bulbs at bit.ly/2KTQuQm to help you plan your flowerbeds.

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April 1, 2021

HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

IDEAS FOR REPURPOSING A SHED A backyard shed is handy for storing outdoor items, such as gardening tools, bicycles, lawnmowers and more. There’s a trend, however, of repurposing backyard sheds into more usable living or storage spaces.

If your shed needs new life or you’re looking for more space, consider these remodels. You can do a basic update on a budget, or go all out and turn the shed into a brand new space.

A STANDARD REMODEL Update a gardening shed with a fresh coat of paint and new fixtures, such as a custom handmade potting bench complete with a wash basin, customized storage for gardening tools and gear and window boxes with flowers.

MAN CAVE OR SHE SHED If you can afford to put more money into the project, why not turn the shed into a space all your own? Convert the shed to a man cave or she-shed.

Add a TV, sofa and mini fridge for an entertaining space. Add custom storage and a craft table to make a crafting space.

Have a hobby? Wire the shed to run a pottery wheel, woodworking tools or more. Or make it a peaceful yoga space.

A GUEST HOUSE If you could use a space for guests, consider converting the shed into a full-blown guest house. You’ll likely need to add insulation and heating/ cooling, electricity and furniture to convert the space to a living area.

You could also add a TV and internet access. If your budget allows, you could even add plumbing.

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The COVID-19 pandemic sent many If you don’t currently have a shed, people scrambling to find space in consider adding one. You can buy their homes for a home office. With pre-made sheds or build your own, or internet access, soundproofing, consider a prefab model that can be insulation and HVAC, your shed could become your new work-from-home SHED space. continued on page 18

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HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

5 COLOR TRENDS THAT WILL DOMINATE THIS YEAR, ACCORDING TO TOP DESIGNERS

By Larissa Runkle Realtor.com

in our bedrooms and meditation corners.

“Once again, it comes down to how we feel, says Asaff South. “Using a blue With COVID-19 vaccines rolling out in a personal space can make you feel and the promise of a not-so-distant future calmer. It’s also bolder and a lot more fun where life is normal again, now seems than earth tones. So in a personal space, like the perfect time to bring your place out of the dark ages of decor and into the you may opt for something like Benjamin Moore’s Aegean Teal that you wouldn’t bright and beautiful light of 2021. necessarily use in your living room.”

To help with your spring makeover, we got the scoop from the folks at home But bringing in the blue doesn’t have to improvement site Fixr. They surveyed be limited to your bedroom walls—it can 68 of the nation's top influencers and also make for great accent pieces and designers about the year's top color pops of color. trends, and we're sure these exciting new “Blue can complement any style and palettes and design schemes will help space without feeling overwhelming or inspire your next interior styling session. too edgy,” says Tatsioni. “We can use it 1. EARTH TONES to update our personal space by having REPLACE COOL GRAYS one large accent piece like an armchair Grays and greige have long been or sofa. Smaller blue accent pieces in our go-to color choices, but this year different hues also work well—adding we’re leaving those cool tones behind for those essential pops of color we all need warmer earth ones. to create an inspiring space.”

“This trend is directly linked to the 3. FLORA-INSPIRED amount of time people have been ACCENT PIECES spending at home,” says Sarabeth Asaff South, home design expert at “Having accent colors that are inspired Fixr. “Warm, natural finishes have by plants closely ties into the trending been shown to help reduce stress in a natural palette,” says Asaff South. space, and with all the time people are “Greens, browns, and soft, earthy hues spending at home, warm and earthy make you feel cozy. colors are helping people feel safe and "Try using your houseplants as your comforted—much more so than cool starting point for your color palette," she grays.”

Does that mean grays are out entirely? adds. "This is an easy way to revamp Not quite. your home’s design without needing to “Warm, earthy tones are here to stay,” think outside the box.” says Anna Tatsioni, lead designer at But don’t limit yourself to green and Decorilla Online Interior Design. “But brown accents; instead, look to other that doesn't mean that there will be a colors that complement your plants. complete switch to beige or ivory hues.

“Some colors that fire up the intensity We’ll simply be replacing cool grays with of green include purple and orange warmer ones, like gray tones that have shades,” says Luciana Fragali of hues of green or brown. These feel more DesignSolutions. “We recommend versatile, cozy, and calming; plus, they can be easily matched with plants and incorporating all of these colors together greenery to bring the outdoors in.” by keeping your walls white, but introducing a bolder color in a painted 2. OCEAN BLUES feature wall, beautiful rug, expansive IN THE BEDROOM artwork, or armfuls of decorative It’s no secret that blue is one of the most cushions. Think aqua, teal, terra cotta, serene colors out there, and this year one warm gray, indigo, navy, and even shade in particular is taking center stage black. You can also look to your planters

and pots to introduce color to your scheme.”

favorite color trends of 2021 has got to be textured wallpaper.

“Gone are the days when wallpaper 4. TEXTILES THAT INCORPORATE was a one-dimensional piece of paper TRENDING COLORS on the wall,” says Fragali.

“If you opt for textiles instead of The latest trend in wall coverings is painting your walls, you can explore to give walls a "seductive 'touch me' colors more safely,” says Asaff South. texture," Fragali says. Think: printed cork “For example, if you purchase some and beaded papers, to 3D geometric pillow covers in a bold new hue and get designs that pop out of the walls. tired of them after a few months, you can "Some people are even hanging rugs more easily get new pillow covers than on their walls to give them texture and to you can paint the wall again.” make a room feel softer and cozier," she “Textiles allow you to make a statement adds. without purchasing all-new furniture "It’s also the perfect way to create a pieces and breaking the bank," Fragali 'wow moment' in a small space, like a adds. "This can be achieved by adding powder room or closet," Fragali says. trending colors in throws, decorative "This is actually one of my favorite ways pillows, drapes and curtains, bedding, to use textured wallpaper in the home.” and even accent chairs.”

5. TEXTURED WALLPAPER MAKES A COMEBACK Last but certainly not least, one of our

Larissa Runkle divides her time between living a cabin in the San Juan Mountains and traveling in a converted van with her partner and pup. She writes for real estate, finance, and lifestyle publications, and is also at work on several fiction projects.

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HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

April 1, 2021

4 ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR UPDATING YOUR KITCHEN COUNTERTOPS

By Ana Durrani Realtor.com

following must-know tips will point you in the right direction.

cookbook author Amanda Frederickson selected Silestone for her Nashville, TN, kitchen.

“When we began planning the kitchen Countertops can make or break a kitchen. Over renovation, I initially considered marble because time, any well-used work surface for meal prep, I love its texture and feel,” says Frederickson. “But dining, and cleanup endures normal wear and tear. then I realized for someone who cooks as often as I But if your countertops have seen better days and do, it would have been a mistake. They would have you’re feeling stuck in a kitchen design rut, it might For red wine and coffee lovers or home chefs gotten stained from accidentally dropping acidic be time for an upgrade. who cook frequently with olive oil (which can wreak food on them or chipped with all the pots and pans “Countertops play an integral part in a kitchen’s havoc on natural stone), experts suggest opting for that go through my kitchen.” aesthetic and functionality,” says Young Huh, a engineered stone countertops that are resistant to Kevin Busch, vice president of operations for Mr. New York City–based interior designer. “It’s an damage and stains.

Handyman, says granite kitchen countertops are update that instantly modernizes the look of the “Zero-maintenance surfacing is a top client currently among the most popular. room and can truly change how you cook and request for both kitchen and bath updates,” says “These countertops can be customized to fit the enjoy the space.”

Huh. “They want a surface that captures the drama unique look and feel of your kitchen,” he says.

Think you’re the only one mulling over a kitchen of natural stone without the constant sealing and Busch says they rank high in durability, last long, countertop revamp? Think again. In a recent kitchen upkeep.” and maintain their original look. Costs typically trends survey by Houzz, countertops came in as the And amateur cooks aren’t the only ones who range from $50 to $80 per square foot but can be most popular feature renovating homeowners plan see the value of engineered stone. Chef Thomas more costly with more exotic slabs. to upgrade.

Keller selected Dekton for kitchen countertops when For a marble look without the hassle, Huh If you’re ready to upgrade your kitchen he renovated his flagship restaurant, the French recommends and also uses Et Calacatta Gold from countertops but have no idea where to start, the Laundry, in Yountville, CA. Culinary influencer and Silestone or Dekton Aura 15. Huh says both are

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HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

durable, require no sealing, and have low or zero porosity.

“You can truly live in the space without worry of stains from everyday use,” says Huh.

2. MIX, MATCH, AND GET MOODY Homeowners nowadays aren’t afraid to play with color and are even willing to take their countertops to a darker, more dramatic place.

“While white may be a safe mainstay when it comes to kitchen design, many of my clients have been turning toward warmer, darker hues in their kitchen palettes,” says Richard T. Anuszkiewicz, an interior designer in Nashville, TN. “I love this pivot as it naturally brings a distinctive element to the space.”

Two of his favorite countertops are Dekton Kelya and Dekton Laurent.

Busch says wood typically isn’t the first material that comes to mind when thinking about kitchen countertops, but “a high-quality wood can create a stunning, vibrant, and long-lasting countertop.”

Pricing can range widely, depending on wood type, but Busch says butcher block countertops tend to range from $30 to $85 per square foot for materials only.

3. KEEP COUNTERTOP TRENDS IN MIND Trends rise and fall so you never want to fill your kitchen with design choices that’ll age poorly. But there are some current countertop trends that experts believe will stand the test

of time.

Huh loves the cohesive look of matching the countertop material with the backsplash. “It creates a very clean, European style that’s emerging in the U.S. market,” she says.

If you have the space, go for a waterfall-edge island like the one in Frederickson’s kitchen.

“It’s full of drama and instantly pulls your eye into the space,” says Huh. Frederickson also used the quartz surfacing as a backsplash, and topped it with a shallow shelf to keep

spices nearby while she cooks.

Experts also advise homeowners to look at the thickness of the countertop they’re buying and stick with slimmer formats. Typically, a thinner the countertop will be more affordable and easier to install.

4. GO ECO-FRIENDLY “More and more of my clients are prioritizing eco-friendly materials with smaller carbon footprints,” Huh says. For homeowners seeking such countertops, there are a variety of options out there.

Silestone, for example, offers an

engineered quartz that is produced with 100% reusable energy.

Busch says countertops made of recycled glass and cement can be a great way to add a clean, industrial, durable surface to a kitchen. This type of countertop costs about $100 to $160 per square foot.

“Sturdy and visually appealing, this countertop material can be customized and is a top choice for those seeking a green alternative,” says Busch.

Anayat Durrani is a freelance education reporter for U.S. News and World Report. Her work has been featured in Military Officer, California Lawyer, the American Scholar, and PracticeLink magazines.

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April 1, 2021

THE YEAR’S BIGGEST BEDROOM DESIGN TRENDS ARE SO DREAMY THEY’LL MAKE YOU FORGET 2020 EVER HAPPENED

By Margaret Heidenry Realtor.com

Some armchairs are pretty objects to look at—or pile laundry on—that never actually see active duty as seats.

The last year of quarantine had every But as we're home more, armchairs are room doing double duty, but some would getting more use. It simply comes down say the bedroom bore the brunt of the to incorporating some extra functionality Fitting right in with the statement bed multifunction trend. That's because the into our existing spaces.

The most important piece of furniture in trend, headboards are also having a boudoir was no longer just for sleeping "Having even just one more space to any bedroom is, well, the bed. And this moment right now. but also for working and learning (or sit and read a book in that feels fresh can year, we're ditching the mattress on a ho"Headboards are becoming a big retreating from those in your home who be a game changer," says Newhart. hum frame and trading up for a statement focal point as the trend moves away from were also working or learning).

Look for accent chairs with a focus bed. a minimal look," says Cara Newhart, an on texture such as cerused (or limed) or And now that 2020 is sufficiently far "More homeowners are choosing interior designer and host of the "Make in the rear-view mirror, you might be warm woods with rattan, wicker, or cane canopy beds for their master bedroom Space" podcast. "Oversized, upholstered details. And if you love color, consider interested in upgrading this retreat for in 2021," says Kelly Marohl, owner and headboards create a showstopping actual R&R. Yes, it's time to look toward a bold pattern or statement fabric (think interior designer at The Greenspring accent wall." the new design trends of 2021. velvet) to add interest and personality.

Home in Baltimore. "The height of a Big, bold headboards featuring a This year will see decor that makes canopy bed draws your eye upward and statement fabric like velvet are in, as are your bedroom feel more intimate and makes a huge statement when you walk textured ones with caning or fluted trim. personal while expanding its uses "One color and its many shades into the room." permanently. Trends this year add that's trending is green," says Phillip Ash, As canopy beds are becoming more warmth and uniqueness to bedrooms, founder of Pro Paint Corner. "Emerald popular, you can find one in just about turning them into a relaxed and calming any style, such as wood, metal, and even environment. upholstery.

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HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021 for a smaller-sized nightstand."

Bonus: Many new desks come with charger drawers for your tech.

MINDFUL LIGHTING The perfect lighting is a game changer in the bedroom. And you can expect that this year, the classic setup of a ceiling light and two matching bedside lamps is getting revamped.

"People are rethinking their bedroom lighting by adding floor lamps, swapping table lamps for plug-in wall sconces, and trying out lighting trends such as lining the edges of the ceiling and wall with LED strip lighting," says Newhart.

Other lighting upgrades include bulbs that change colors depending on the time of day. The color temperature of the light during the day is cooler and bluer.

And in the evening, the bulb gets warmer and more orange to better support sleep.

DETAILED DRESSERS green is rich, warm, and brings to mind bed. nature and the outdoors. We all could do "These colors have been proven to with an outdoor pick-me-up!" emit a welcoming and peaceful feeling," For bedrooms doubling as offices, two- adds Ash. toning the color on the walls between emerald green and cream is a perfect way to divide your office area from your

DESKS FOR NIGHTSTANDS

LIZ OWENS Branch Manager NMLS: #634638 | ID MLO-21138 MT 634638 | WA MLO-634638 c: 208-503-7196 e: Liz.Owens@OnQFinancial.com w: OnQFinancial.com/Liz-Owens 618 D Street, Suite A Lewiston, ID 8 3501

2021 is all about squeezing texture in "A design strategy I've loved forever anywhere and everywhere. So look for is finally getting some major traction: dressers with fluted fronts or caning on replacing your nightstand with a drawer fronts as well. gorgeous desk," says Newhart. "This not only adds additional functionality to your bedroom but also fills in the awkward TRENDS corner space that's leftover when you opt continued on page 15

SPRING INTO A NEW HOME! Liz Owens and On Q Financial can help to • • • • • •

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HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

April 1, 2021

WHY A SUNROOM IS THE SPACE YOU'VE BEEN MISSING—AND HOW TO ADD ONE TO YOUR HOME

By Wendy Helfenbaum Realtor.com After a long winter of quarantine— and the shift to daylight saving time mere days away—it's safe to say we're all done—done!—with being cooped up indoors.

But as eager as you may be to enjoy those extra hours of sun on your patio, it might be just a little too cold right now. And even when it does warm up, there are other issues: Mosquitoes! Freak hailstorms! No place to charge your phone!

So here's a solution to help you keep your sanity, even in colder months: Bring the outdoors in with a sunroom.

A sunroom can transform a home, adding a bright, casual space to gather. These glass-enclosed transitional spaces—also called solariums, conservatories, or patio

rooms—offer a connection to the outdoors, letting in tons of natural light while also protecting you from the elements of nature you don’t want.

These flexible bonus spaces can be used for anything, like a home office, playroom, lounge, art studio, or music room. Here’s what you need to know about adding a sunroom to your property.

What is a sunroom?

“Basically, a sunroom is a multifunctional, exterior room that is made up of at least 40% glass or a similar material,” says Travis Mulligan, marketing manager for LivingSpace Sunrooms and Porch Conversions in Toledo, OH. Available in traditional and contemporary designs, sunrooms can be purchased as kits or prefab units, or they can be custom-built in many sizes, shapes, and materials, including aluminum, vinyl, fiberglass, or natural

wood. Typically, these glassed-in living spaces are attached to a house and can be made accessible from inside.

“In Texas, we have many clients that love having that indoor-outdoor space. We’ll often add skylights or large glass doors that fold into the walls,” says Heather Berardi, an Austin, TX–based interior designer with Martha O’Hara Interiors. “We tend to see sunrooms toward the back of houses off family rooms or kitchens.

They’re a more casual space for entertaining, watching TV, or reading a book.”

WHAT KIND OF HOUSES ARE BEST FOR SUNROOMS? Most homes can be a good candidate for a sunroom, especially if the back gets good natural light in

the morning or throughout the day, she adds.

Sunrooms are generally either three-season or four-season rooms.

Three-season sunrooms usually aren’t insulated or hooked up to your home’s HVAC system, so if you live in a cold climate, you probably won’t be using this space during winter months. In warmer climates, however, threeseason sunrooms can often be used year-round.

Four-season sunrooms have more insulation and heavy-duty, doublepaned glass, so they can be enjoyed year-round, wherever you live.

These spaces, which are often built on floating concrete slabs with a foundation, are generally considered a true extension of the main house.

Often, 2-foot-high knee walls are installed to accommodate electrical outlets and baseboard heaters.

April 1, 2021

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HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

“The beauty of that is you don't get taxed like a normal addition," he says.

"Yet a lot of the rooms we build are more thermally efficient than the actual house, because we're using materials Many sunroom manufacturers and installers offer free design consultations like aluminum panels with thick foam insulation, and extremely high-quality, to help homeowners select the best heat-reflective glass.” option for them. Once the basic style and size are chosen, the potential room is measured out and quoted, says Angus Morison, president of Four Seasons Sunrooms and Windows As with most renovation projects, Retail, which manufactures its products prices for sunrooms vary wildly on Long Island, NY. The company depending on where you live, the then handles all permits and engineer size of the space, the quality of drawings. materials you choose, and the level of “Because it's made in our factory craftsmanship, says Mulligan. prior to going on site, we can build The average cost for a three-season one of these rooms in about one to two sunroom—which uses the existing roof weeks, depending on how complex the or porch cover and adds walls and design is, from the foundations going windows right on top of the existing in to the final touches of Sheetrock,” he patio or deck—is around $20,000, says. “It's a very unobtrusive way to Mulligan says. A four-season room, get an addition on your house.” which requires a foundation, flooring, Because many sunrooms are and an HVAC system, would be technically classified as uninhabitable around $45,000. spaces, they remain closed off from the Costs can increase if the site house, with an exterior door leading to preparation or tie-in to your home is the sunroom, explains Morison. challenging—such as if your property is

WHAT’S INVOLVED IN ADDING A SUNROOM?

HOW MUCH DO SUNROOMS COST?

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sloped. And if you need an old deck or patio demolished, that also boosts the price tag.

Larger, high-end sunrooms can run $75,000 and up, adds Berardi, especially if you choose expensive furniture and finishing touches, like heated floors.

ENERGY AND OTHER ADDED COSTS Although sunrooms don’t have to have central heating and cooling, many custom-built products have electric or fan-powered heaters, plus they’re wired for electricity. If you opt for mostly glass walls and you live in a hot climate, window treatments aren’t necessary, because you want to have a clear view to the outdoors, says Berardi. But window treatments can block out the sun on very warm days to help keep the space cool.

And don’t forget to factor in added expenses such as a possible increase in your property taxes, insurance rate, and extra utility expenses if you opt for a four-season sunroom.

But on the flip side, sunrooms can

boost a property’s value, Berardi notes, because having a bonus space appeals to buyers.

“Sunrooms are a great way to enjoy all of the seasons: the summer sun, the beautiful trees when they're changing in the fall, the snow during Christmastime, and the flowers coming up in the spring,” she says.

Wendy Helfenbaum is a journalist and TV producer who covers real estate, architecture and design, DIY, gardening, and travel. Her work has appeared in Woman's Day, Metropolis, Costco Connection, Garden Collage, Parenting, Canadian Living, Canadian Gardening, and more.

TRENDS continued from page 13

"Other popular textures are focused on natural elements in warm palettes such as wood tones, woven rattan, and cane webbing," says Newhart. "Hardwarewise, matte black is having a moment, as is wooden hardware that complements the natural textures on the dresser."

Margaret Heidenry is a writer living in Brooklyn, NY. Her work has appeared in the New York Times Magazine, Vanity Fair, and Boston Magazine.

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HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

April 1, 2021

9 LIVING ROOM IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS, BASED ON HOW MUCH TIME YOU HAVE

By Kathleen Willcox Realtor.com The living room has always been a high-traffic area of the home, but during the pandemic, this room has really come into the spotlight. Much of the past year's working, schooling, and relaxing has happened in the living room, and all the wear and tear makes this area a prime place for an upgrade.

If you plan on selling your home soon and want to spruce up your place, it might be beneficial to focus on the living room. According to a study from the National Association of Realtors®, this is the most commonly staged room in the home. If only one room in the home is picked for the star treatment, the living room is staged 93% of the time, compared with the kitchen (84%), the master bedroom (78%), and the dining room (72%).

But home sellers-to-be don’t have to hire a stager to make the living room shine. In fact, there are many projects you can accomplish at home with your own two hands. We reached out to real estate and interior design experts for ideas for living room upgrades with wide appeal, keeping a range of budgets and time constraints in mind.

IF YOU HAVE 5 MINUTES Whether you’re living in your home or not when you sell it, chances are it’s not as clean as it should be (or you think it is). This goes double for the living room, where mud is tracked in, pet fur is shed, and movie night leaves food debris.

All of our experts agree, taking five minutes to use a wet rag to swipe cobwebs and unsightly dirt from baseboards, fan blades, and window

panes is the one quick fix every seller should do before a potential buyer walks in.

“It may not seem like a lot, but it will make the space look and feel much more polished,” says Geraldine Anello, the founder of New York City’s Handy Women, a virtual community of would-be home renovators.

Cost: Free A few carefully selected plants can also make a world of difference when selling your home, experts say.

In addition to releasing oxygen and freshening the air, indoor plants have been shown to reduce stress levels and boost moods—something both home sellers and buyers could use.

“Don’t underestimate the power of greenery,” says Meredith Ehn, a real estate agent with Falk Ruvin Gallagher Real Estate in Milwaukee.

“A plant can transform a stale room and add interest to the decor.”

Freshly cut flowers or larger “snake” plants make enormous visual impressions, and don’t require a lot of upkeep.

IF YOU HAVE 30 MINUTES If you have magazines, books, or papers in your living room, even in neatly stacked piles, you have a problem, experts say. Agents warn against having a lot of knickknacks,

family photos, or other personal items on tabletops and clogging up shelves.

Buyers will want to picture themselves living in the home you're selling, so the more neutral the setting is, the better. And even if you're not selling your home, clutter in the home has been proven to cause distractions and affect your ability to focus.

“A living room filled with these kinds of items also makes the space appear smaller,” points out Jeff Shipwash, CEO of Shipwash Properties in Kingston, TN. He recommends grabbing boxes and doing a clean sweep of surfaces and shelves to eliminate all personal items and excess clutter.

Cost: $0 After decluttering, experts advise drawing the buyer’s eye to the livability of the space, either with an item that grounds the room, like an area rug, or one large, classic, elegant conversation starter.

“A correctly sized rug can make a world of difference,” says Andra DelMonico, an interior design expert at Next Luxury, a men’s lifestyle website. “It should be large enough to ground the furniture and tie everything together to create a cohesive space.

If your rug is too small, it makes the room look smaller and feel disjointed. You can also replace a generic overhead light with a stylish chandelier.”

April 1, 2021

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HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

upholstered furniture, rugs, and curtains look after a deep clean.”

Cost: Rent an upholstery or carpet cleaner machine from Bissell or Rug Doctor for about $30 for 24 hours, plus the cost of the cleaning solution.

Buy a carpet cleaner for about $150, plus the cost of cleaning solution.

“Curtains, drapes, or blinds can make a room look so much fresher,” says Julie Aragon, a property investor and a mortgage consultant at Lending Tree in Los Angeles. “Another dramatic and not too time-intensive way to modernize and transform a room is with a gallery wall of simple framed art pieces. There are so many guides on YouTube to follow to ensure the installation is evenly spaced.”

Cost: $100-plus for window treatments; $5-plus for frames; $5plus for generic art prints Cost: $100-plus depending on the size and material of the rug; $100plus for a well-made chandelier

IF YOU HAVE 1 HOUR Decluttering and dusting does a lot, but experts say if you have a full

hour, pull out all the stops and do a true deep clean. Tackle lampshades, blinds, window sills, and corners with a dry duster or microfiber cloth, and then mop the floor and polish wood and glass surfaces.

But for the biggest impact, Anello

recommends using an upholstery or carpet cleaner to make dingy couches, chairs, and rugs look new again.

“This can make an enormous difference,” Anello says. “I’m always shocked by how much better

IF YOU HAVE 3 HOURS Christa Hyland, a licensed real estate salesperson at Howard Hanna in Saratoga Springs, NY, recommends using an afternoon to rearrange your living room and—if you're up for the

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April 1, 2021

HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

challenge— to make some aesthetic upgrades.

“You want the living room to be open and inviting,” she says. “Make sure your furniture is arranged around a table for conversation. A nice floor lamp adds great visual warmth, too, and mirrors are no-brainers for adding a sense of light and size to any room.”

If you have a fireplace, she also recommends looking at ways to modernize and brighten it, from adding a stylish new mantel to a quick DIY tiling project.

“I actually retiled my own fireplace recently, and it changed the entire look of the room,” she says.

Cost: $50-plus for lamps; $50-plus for decorative mirrors; $500 to $700 to install a fireplace mantel; $5-plus/ square foot for fireplace tiles

IF YOU HAVE A WEEKEND In a weekend, you can tackle many of the projects above, or take on a larger project.

One out-of-the-box idea is having wooden beams installed in your ceiling.

“It’s easy to do even yourself, and adds a lot of architectural interest to the ceiling,” says Derek Christian, owner of Handyman Connection in Blue Ash, OH. “It can appear both elegant or rustic, depending on the finish.”

Cost: $100 to $250 per beam, plus $200 to $300 per beam for

installation If offloading your home quickly and for top dollar is a priority, Hyland recommends hiring a professional stager.

“It’s not cheap initially, but the results are immediate," she says.

"I’ve had vacant homes sitting on the market for months staged, and then had offers come in over the asking price. A lot of buyers can’t visually picture themselves in a space without

Routine maintenance. The siding manufacturer will likely require that you keep the siding maintained to a consider whether the warranty can certain standard. For example, you be transferred to new owners. This may be required to use a soft-bristled feature could increase the value of the brush as opposed to a pressurehome. Be sure to let the new owners washer. The manufacturer will offer know how to take advantage of the recommended products to clean transfer. There is usually a time limit in the siding and warn against using which the transfer must be completed, strong chemical cleaners. Damage such as 30 or 45 days after the caused by issues such as mold left sale of the home. Some features of on the surface of the siding may not the warranty may not transfer, and be covered. The warranty may also the term may be reduced after the prohibit you from painting, varnishing transfer. or otherwise refinishing your siding.

furniture.”

Hyland recommends reaching out to your agent, who can either handle the staging if your furniture is still there or hire a stager to rent furniture.

Cost: $200 to $5,000, depending on what’s in the space and what is needed Kathleen Willcox is a journalist who writes about real estate, travel, and food and wine. She lives in Saratoga Springs, NY.

WARRANTY

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April 1, 2021 SOLAR continued from page 3

produced by panels installed on his home at a set price. Purchasing panels could allow you to qualify for the Solar Investment Tax Credit, a 30% federal tax credit available through 2022. Lease and PPA agreements do not qualify for the credit.

Also ask about net metering. This arrangement allows you to receive credit on your electric bill for power that your system feeds back into the grid.

Shop around with various solar installers and compare their PRUNING continued from page 5

extension service for particulars on how much to prune a particular shrub or plant.

In general, when pruning a tree, begin with removing any dead or dying branches, as well as any “suckers” — sprouts emerging

19

HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021 financing options. Compare the upfront and monthly costs, as well as tax benefits.

before it goes online.

COMMUNITY SOLAR

If you decide solar panels aren’t a good fit for your home or budget, If you’re worried about whether you can still benefit from solar solar is safe for your home, rest energy via community solar. This assured the industry is well regulated concept is a way for you to buy into to protect homeowners. Solar panels a group solar project which feeds must meet international inspection solar energy into the electricity and testing standards, according grid, and get a credit on your to the Department of Energy, and electricity bill in exchange. To find a installers must meet qualifications community solar project near you, and install panels to meet local visit communitysolar.energysage. building, fire and electrical codes. com. Enter your average monthly Your system should be thoroughly electricity bill and ZIP code to see inspected by a certified electrician how much you could save per

SAFETY

RECALLS continued from page 4

SHOP SMART To protect your family from unsafe products before you guy, visit SaferProducts.gov, where reports of harm caused by products are cataloged in a searchable database.

On the website, you can search by brand and model number and read reports made by consumers about their experience with products from air purifiers to dishwashers to thermostats to lawn equipment and more.

SPRING CLEANING continued from page 2

from the base of the trunk. Make clean cuts flush to the branch, with no part of the growth remaining.

Also remove “watersprouts,” which are small, straight vertical shoots growing on the main branches.

Thin out the tree by removing branches that grow downward, toward the center of the tree or that cross paths with another branch, as

well as any limbs along the trunk that are bigger in diameter than the trunk.

Then focus on evening out the branches and removing competing branches. Finally, prune the tree from the outermost growth to give it a pleasing shape, and promote the growth of shorter, thicker branches.

clothes in drawers and closets. Do the same with toys and books. Toss any food that’s been hanging around in the refrigerator a bit too long. Inventory the deep freeze so you can use up foods that have been lurking there.

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HOME & GARDEN SPRING AND SUMMER 2021

April 1, 2021

ADDING PLANTS TO WATER FEATURES Metro Editorial Water features can make for relaxing and eye-catching additions to outdoor spaces. According to the online gardening resource Garden Know-How, a water feature is any landscape enhancement that uses water and other material to bring tranquility and beauty to a space.

Thanks to their soothing sounds and aesthetic appeal, water features like ponds and fountains are often included in healing gardens. But they can be used in any and all landscapes.

Homeowners can explore various water features, such as waterfalls, koi ponds and even rain bells, which offer soothing chime sounds when it rains.

One consideration when installing a water feature is whether or not to incorporate live plants. Certain plants are better suited for water features than others.

SURROUNDING PLANTS It is possible to create a miniature ecosystem in a yard by surrounding

a water feature with certain plants.

Gardening Know-How advises using canna lily or taro at the edge of a pond. These plants thrive with roots in mud and their tops in shallow water.

Broadleaf arrowhead is another option, as it can do well in a pond's shallow edges. It's a perennial so it will come back and requires little maintenance.

FLOATING PLANTS Many plants can live on the surface of the water and provide hiding spots for wildlife in a natural water feature setting. Lotus, also called water lily, is a popular and fragrant option. Water hyacinth produces vibrant lavender flowers that pop on stems that can reach three feet in height. This stunning species can be invasive, but it can be managed by planting within a hoop or submerged woven basket, indicates Happy DIY Home. Other free-floating plants to consider are duckweed, fairy moss and butterfly fern. Floating plants look beautiful and they can help filter water and control algae growth.

SUBMERGED PLANTS Submerged plants are a necessity in water features that have fish.

Submerged plants are grown in weighted pots placed on the bottom of the pond. They provide shelter for fish and help oxygenate the water.

Hornwort, anacharis, water milfoil, and dwarf sagittaria are some examples of submerged plants.

Water features attract wildlife, including potentially pesky insects.

Planting pitcher plants in submerged

pots can help reduce the presence of unwanted insects in a water feature.

Some water-loving plants are invasive, so it is always best to check with a local agricultural extension or the Department of Environmental Protection to see if certain floating or submerged plants are restricted where you live. For those who want to contain plants, placing pots of cascading greenery and flowers near to fountains, pools and ponds is another way to add appeal without having to dig in the ground.

SOD VS. SEED: WHICH IS YOUR BEST OPTION? Metro Editorial A pristine lawn can be the finishing touch to a landscape and add significant value to a home. According to a joint study by the University of Alabama and the University of Texas at Arlington, homes with high curb appeal sell for an average of 7 percent more than similar houses without inviting exteriors.

When it comes to establishing a lawn, homeowners have two key options: starting from seed or installing sod. Each comes with its share of advantages and disadvantages.

Which option makes the most sense for a given lawn will boil down to various factors, including

homeowners' budgets.

SEED Seed is the first thing homeowners may think of when planning a lawn.

Seed is an inexpensive, easily installed option. Plus, garden centers sell a variety of seeds specific to particular regions and climates. The home improvement resource Fixr says seed will cost an average of 24 cents per square foot installed compared to $1.29 for sod. That affordability compels many homeowners to turn to seed. However, seed can take up to two years to produce a lush lawn and it requires high maintenance in the initial months to establish the grass.

Seed also requires greater soil

preparation, including tilling to loosen soil and keeping the lawn well watered until the grass is hardy. Weeds also may mix in with seed more readily, meaning weed prevention becomes an additional task.

The potential disadvantages to sod are its cost and the time it takes to install it, particularly on a large property. In addition, sod will require careful maintenance for at least the first two weeks until the sod takes stronger roots. It can be an expensive mistake if sod doesn't thrive and new pieces need to be installed. The Family Handyman says sod tends to One of the advantages to sod is be sun-loving and may not work in that it can produce an instant lawn. shadier areas of a property.

When time is of the essence, sod will Sod and seed are the two main produce a complete lawn nearly as options for lush lawns. Each has soon as the sod is laid. Sod can be its perks, and homeowners can used to mitigate soil erosion, as it speak with a local lawn specialist to works faster than seed, which needs to establish a root system to keep soil determine which option is best for in check. Also, sod does not require as their lawn. much soil preparation as seed.

SOD