Spring Home Improvement 2022

Top 5 ways to boost value of your home

By Kristina Lazzara-Saari

of Geeks

Wealth

Spring is officially here. Have you thought about looking past the typical spring cleaning and thought, “a fresh coat of paint would look nice here.” There’s no time like the present. Simple changes around the house can help you enjoy your home more, but those changes also increase its market value. Whether you’re looking to sell or just want to fix it up for yourself, here are some tips to help you boost the value of your home.

Curb appeal is key

What is the absolute first thing you see when you go to someone’s house for the first time? The front, of course! In this case, first impressions are everything. Here are some relatively easy and inexpensive ways to clean up your curb. Get that greenery in. There’s a type of plant for every climate.

Live in a more moderate climate? A typical green lawn with some flowers does the trick. Are icy winters an issue? Evergreen bushes are easy to come by and look good during any season. Is the sun shining bright year-round in your area? Cactuses, succu­

lents, and other hot-weather plants add an exotic touch to the front and are easy to maintain. Adding fresh mulch or stone to your newly planted greenery helps make great first impressions. Solar-powered pathway lights are a great option too. Illuminating the house at night makes it feel more welcoming.

Invest in your kitchen and bathroom

If there is one area of the home you should focus on improving, it’s the kitchen and bathroom. These interior spaces can also make or break a deal if you’re trying to sell or want to impress your friends.

In many cases, bathroom or kitchen remodels offer one of the most significant returns on investment. Springing for a remodel of one of these two rooms is always a safe choice if you have the budget. If a remodel isn't in your budget, here are some more low-cost ideas to enhance these living spaces. Upgrade the little things gradually. That super nice showerhead can amp up your shower game and reduce your water intake as a bonus. Replacing cheap plastic drawer handles with sturdy metal ones makes a world of difference. Organize it all. There’s a reason

that reorganizing spice racks and medicine cabinet videos are popular.

Maximize space you have

Think footrests that double as storage, shelves that span across the wall, and minor construction projects. There are many ways to expand your living spaces with a bit of creativity. Construct more space. Adding a wall between a larger room can add an entire bedroom or tear out a wall to create a larger living space. Expanding the house into unused yard space easily adds square footage to the home. If you don’t have the yard space, consider if there's a way to add loft space to the top floor using empty ceiling space. Mount your TV. Mounting a TV on the wall leaves more room underneath it for other decor or more space for viewing upgrades like soundbars or video game consoles. Use your walls. Like mounting a TV, look for household items you can hang from the walls instead of resting them on the floor, counter, or table.

Revamp your outdoor area

Now that we have already covered curb appeal, what about the outdoor areas? Creating inviting spaces outside adds a whole new

element to the home-another room in a way. Consider a deck or patio. Adding a designated area for sitting and lounging adds a whole new level to your outdoor space. It also comes in handy if you have a smaller home and have a gathering; you can move the cooking and dining outdoors, weather permitting. Don’t skip the shade. In the blazing heat, you’ll want some way to escape the sun. Sunshades, gazebos, even larger offset patio umbrellas will keep the sun at bay. Consider modern and energy-efficient appliances Energy-efficient appliances reduce your utility bills while you’re living in the home, but they also give you an edge if you decide to sell.

Old appliances date your home. It’s easy to have a beautiful kitchen ruined by a refrigerator straight out of the 80s. Upgrading one appliance at a time will slowly help bring your home to the 21st century. Modern doesn't mean expensive. There’s an appliance fit for most budgets if you’re looking. The more affordable ones won’t have all the fancy features, but they will work perfectly for what you need, look more up-to-date, and be in your price range.

Spring Home Improvement Add

farmhouse style to

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When it comes to home design, farmhouse style represents a total intersection of beauty and practicality, making it no surprise that many are embracing this traditional look today. Whatever architectural style your home is, adding key design elements can help you get in on best aspects of the farmhouse trend. Here are a few renovations to consider:

An updated porch:

Adding a front porch or expanding an existing porch will not only add charming farmhouse-style curb appeal, but extend your outdoor living area as well. Be sure to take as much care decorating your porch as you would any other room of your home. Include comfy furniture, like rocking chairs and a porch swing, complete with cushions. Add potted plants for a touch of vibrant greenery, lantern wall sconces for illumination, and outdoor rugs for coziness.

Don’t forget the entry way.

Make it more inviting with seasonal wreaths and a cheerful welcome mat.

Board ‘n batten siding:

Imparting a rustic, handmade quality to any home, even those built-in contemporary styles, “board ‘n batten” is a centuries-old siding design that encapsulates the appeal of farmhouse-style homes. The term “batten” refers to the strip of molding placed across the joint between boards. The resulting look boasts an attractive geometry of strong vertical lines balanced by a sense of texture across the horizontal face. While the look is traditional, you can pair it with the very latest in siding technology. For example, CedarMAX Insulated Siding from ProVia comes in many styles, including board ‘n batten. This complete thermal cladding system offers continuous insulation for maximum energy savings. With five times greater impact resistance than regular siding and a weather barrier shield, this is not just a charming aesthetic upgrade,

Exterior lighting can add ambiance to your property

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The value of the right lighting in a home is undeniable. Lighting can instantly transform a room and create the ambiance homeowners are looking to establish. Though it might be mostly seen as a way to create mood inside a home, lighting also can do much for lawns and gardens.

Backyards have come a long way over the last several decades. Once reserved as play areas for children and stomping grounds for the family dog, backyards have become oases for homeowners and their families. Outdoor living areas are wildly popular, and no such area is complete without exterior lighting. In fact, a recent report from the National Association of Home Builders found that 85 percent of home buyers want exterior lighting, making it the second most desired outdoor feature (patios topped that list).

Exterior lighting can have a dramatic effect on landscaping, and estimates from the online financial resource Kiplinger.com suggest such lighting is inexpensive, with installation averaging roughly $67 per fixture.

trees at night just like you might when spending time in the yard during the day.

Focus on trees

Many homeowners already have exterior lighting lining their walkways and patios, but focusing on trees can create an entirely different look. Though it’s possible to install exterior tree lighting on your own, landscaping professionals with lighting experience know which fixtures will pair most effectively with the trees around your property and how to arrange them for maximum effect.

Opt for warm light

Warm white light creates an inviting feel around the property. The exterior lighting experts at Utah Lights acknowledge that choice of lighting is up to homeowners but also note that, in situations with lower levels of ambient light, such as in exterior lights around a property, people typically prefer warmer light. That’s because warm light tends to be easier on the eyes and directs attention to the features of the landscape, which is many homeowners’ goal when installing exterior lighting in their yards.

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Metal roofing can offer superior color retention, long-term reliability, energy efficiency and environmental friendliness, architectural-grade metal shingle roofing is an upgrade that can add both beauty and value to your home. but one that will improve the comfort of your home for years to come.

Metal roofing: There’s a reason metal roofing plays prominently into the design of authentic farmhouses — they are built to last. That’s truer than ever today, thanks to advances in metal roofing technology. Offering superior color retention, long-term reliability, energy efficiency and environmental friendliness, architectural-grade metal shingle roofing is an upgrade

that can add both beauty and value to your home. In the case of ProVia’s Metal Slate Roofing, which is designed to look like classic quarried slate shingles, you can draw on the beauty of nature in shades of gray and brown, while enjoying proven protection from hail, wind, rain, and corrosion.

Interior touches: Restyle your home’s interior to be farmhouse-inspired with a few renovations. Classic looks include neutral walls, such as matte shades of beige, grays

and creams, shabby chic furniture — think wicker, distressed wood and reclaimed lumber — and hardwood flooring. Consider dusting off a few hand-me-downs or visiting antique shops and estate sales for one-of-a-kind finds. Above all, be sure to prioritize comfort, warmth, and practicality. To embrace everything that a home should be — an inviting place to gather with friends and family — add farmhouse-style touches to your home, indoors and out.

Spring hacks to prep home for warm weather

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With warmer weather on the way, it’s time to deal with the associated household hassles of the season. Here are three hacks that will help you create a healthy, comfortable home during the months ahead:

Beat the heat

Beyond having your HVAC unit serviced and changing your air filter regularly, you can beat the heat at home with a few smart strategies.

One change you can make today that will also reduce your carbon footprint is to swap out your heat-emitting incandescent light bulbs for cool LEDs. Likewise, appliances that are not in use but plugged in could be generating unnecessary warmth, so unplug when you can. Finally, use shades and blinds strategically to block out the sun and prevent a greenhouse effect indoors.

Banish flying bugs

Fruit flies, gnats and flies tend to proliferate indoors in the warmer months. Not only do these creatures come with a serious ick factor, they can harm your houseplants and even put your family’s health at risk by carrying germs from dirty surfaces to clean ones.

A safe and easy way to defend against buzzing invaders is to plug Zevo Bug Traps into outlets around your home, especially in areas where these bugs enter your home and gather, like garages, entry ways, covered porches, trash cans, drain pipes and kitchens. Rather than relying on chemical insecticides,

When installing exterior lighting around their landscapes, homeowners can keep various tips in mind to create a relaxing, awe-inspiring mood on their properties at night.

Consider uplights

Uplights are installed in the ground and direct light up at a tree, focusing on its trunk or canopy. This creates a dramatic effect that makes it possible to enjoy majestic

Utilize a timer

Modern exterior lighting timers make it easier than ever to control the lights outside a home. Many such timers even adjust for the changing seasons and the shifting hours of daylight. That means homeowners shouldn’t have to tinker with the timer once it’s set. Exterior lighting can add significant appeal to a property without breaking the bank.

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Test the humidity of various rooms in your home with a hygrometer and use a dehumidifier where needed.

they use multi-spectrum light technology that bugs find irresistible. Once attracted, flying insects are trapped in a super-sticky adhesive backing. Each trap cartridge offers continuous defense for up to 45 days or until it's full. When you’re done with a cartridge, simply throw it in the trash and slide a new one in, without ever having to touch the dead bugs. Pair these traps with Zevo home bug sprays, which are powered by essential oils, for whole home protection. To learn more about defending your home against insects, and for trapping tips, visit zevoinsect.com.

Master mold Thriving in warm wet environments, mold is something to watch out for at home, especially during spring and summer. Much more than an

eyesore, mold is bad for your home’s infrastructure and bad for you. Mold can cause a number of allergic reactions and can sometimes even be toxic.

However, you can reduce the risk of mold forming by managing your home’s humidity. Use fans and other ventilation in bathrooms and the kitchen when showering, running the dishwasher and

doing other tasks that invite humidity. Test the humidity of various rooms in your home with a hygrometer and use a dehumidifier where needed. According to the EPA, the ideal indoor humidity is between 30 and 50%.

Employing warm weather hacks at home can help you maintain clean, comfortable spaces, all season long.

ASPHALT PAVING & EXCAVATING

Richard M. Wells & Son

MetroCreative Library

When installing exterior lighting around their landscapes, homeowners can keep various tips in mind to create a relaxing, awe-inspiring mood on their properties at night.

DID YOU KNOW

According to Energy Star, the U.S. Department of Energy and Consumer Reports, homeowners who want to curb their energy consumption can consider upgrading, repairing or replacing the biggest energy consumers in their homes. The following appliances tend to consume the most energy in a typical home.

Heating & cooling unit: Nearly half of all energy used in a home is consumed by HVAC systems.

Water heater: Energy Star suggests replacing water heaters that are more than 10 years old. Also, washing clothes in cold water can reduce energy consumption.

Family project: Protect birds in your backyard

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Part of being a good environmental steward is passing on this wisdom to the next generation.

Here are three hands-on ways parents and grandparents can teach children to protect the birds in their very own backyard.

Build a bird feeder

Build bird feeders using natural or recycled materials to teach two earth-friendly lessons in one: the importance of reducing waste and the need to take care of local wildlife.

Bird feeders can be crafted from milk cartons, tin cans, mason jars or even natural materials like pinecones.

As you decorate your bird feeders, talk to your kids about how birds are not just beautiful, but also a vital part of the ecosystem and how you are offering these creatures a chance to rest and refuel.

Fill your finished products with birdseed and choose a safe spot to hang them.

Experts recommend bird feeders be positioned either closer than three feet or farther than 30 feet from windows.

Protect flight

Birds in flight are prone to strike windows. Fortunately, there’s an easy home project you and your

children can complete together that will help prevent this from happening. Applying decals that reflect ultraviolet sunlight

to your home’s windows, particularly windows that are highly reflective of open sky, has been proven to substantially reduce the likelihood

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of bird strikes. Those from WindowAlert feature patterns that give the appearance of slightly frosted translucent glass, but glow

like a stoplight for birds.

Kids can help select from fun decal designs like snowflakes, butterflies and maple leaves.

The brand also makes a high-tech UV liquid that offers even greater protection when applied between decals. To learn more, visit WindowAlert.com.

Keep a log

Now that you’ve invited birds to your yard and have taken steps to protect them, inspire young naturalists to keep a log of flying visitors. Kids can draw pictures of the birds they see and note their observations.

Visit Audubon for Kids at audubon.org for a birding guide, activities, games and additional projects that can help kids learn to identify various bird species by sight and sound.

“Environmental stewardship starts in your own backyard and people of all ages can get involved, including kids,” says Spencer Schock, founder of WindowAlert.

“The good news is that turning your home into a refuge for birds is fun, easy, and something parents, grandparents and kids can work on together.”

Familiar foe: Tips to corral spring allergies

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Spring is synonymous with rebirth. Each spring, flowers begin to bloom again, grass starts to grow and people from all walks of life rekindle their love affair with the great outdoors.

Spring also marks the return of a familiar foe: allergies.

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When picking trees to plant on a property remember not all trees and landscapes make a perfect match.

Several

picking the correct trees for your property

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Trees benefit a landscape by serving both aesthetic and utilitarian functions. A home surrounded by healthy green trees can be a sight to behold, and those same trees can benefit surrounding plants and wildlife at the same time.

As appealing as trees are, not all trees and landscapes make for the perfect match.

The Arbor Day Foundation notes the importance of planning when designing a landscape. Planning ensures the trees homeowners ultimately choose for their properties will grow well in the soil and moisture present in their yards.

Careful consideration of a handful of variables can help homeowners determine which trees will make the best fit for their properties.

Height Homeowners must consider the projected height of a tree before planting it. Avoid trees that will bump into anything when fully grown, as that can adversely affect surrounding greenery and pose a safety hazard. The ADF’s tree sizing guide can be accessed at https://www. arborday.org/trees/rightTree-

AndPlace/size.cfm and serves as an invaluable resource for homeowners who want to plant new trees around their properties.

Canopy spread Trees grow out as well as up, so it’s important to consider their potential width at maturity as well. The ADF sizing guide can help

homeowners get an idea of how wide a tree is likely to be at maturity. Trees that spread out quite a bit don’t necessarily need to be avoided, but it’s important that they're planted far enough apart so they don't adversely affect surrounding plants. In addition, wide trees that are planted too close together can make the landscape appear crowded, taking something away from its aesthetic appeal.

Growth rate

Growth rate is an important variable because it can affect how quickly homeowners will see changes in their landscapes. Homeowners who want to plant for privacy can consider trees with quick growth rates or purchase more mature trees that are already near full growth. Those who are not in need of instant transformation can try trees with slower growth rates, which the ADF notes typically live longer than fast-growing species.

Requirements

Different trees require different amounts of sun and moisture and different soil components to thrive. Homeowners can have their soil tested to determine which trees will thrive in it. Local garden centers can be a great resource for homeowners who want insight as to which trees will thrive in their local climates.

Trees serve many functions on a property. Choosing the right trees for a landscape requires careful consideration of a host of variables.

Seasonal allergies can put a damper on even the most welcoming spring day. After all, a day soaking up the sun isn’t so relaxing when it’s also spent sneezing and confronting allergy symptoms like congestion, runny nose and watery eyes. Thankfully, it’s possible for seasonal allergy sufferers to have their spring and enjoy it, too.

Pay attention to seasonal allergy trackers

Seasonal allergies are now easier to track than ever. For example, Pollen.com is an easily accessible and free site that allows visitors to type in their ZIP codes and access daily allergy reports for their towns and cities. Visitors also can see five-day forecasts that can help them plan trips and other outdoor excursions. Weather.com also offers free allergy reports and forecasts. Individuals with seasonal allergies can make use of these sites and plan their activities based on the information they provide.

Steps can be taken to enjoy the spring and keep allergies at bay.

Stay indoors when allergen levels are especially high

The Mayo Clinic notes that there are several things individuals can do to reduce their exposure to seasonal allergy triggers.That includes staying indoors on dry, windy days. This doesn’t mean individuals need to lock themselves indoors all spring. But it’s important that seasonal allergy sufferers recognize that some days might be too much to handle. Rain helps clear pollen from the air, so individuals who are avoiding the outdoors on days when pollen counts are high should be able to get outside after a

good rain without triggering an attack.

Maintain clean air indoors

The great outdoors is not the only place where allergens percolate. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America notes that improving air quality in a home can reduce allergy triggers. Air conditioners can prevent outdoor allergens from entering a home, so utilize units on warm spring days when you might otherwise open the windows. Open windows and screen doors provide easy entry points for allergens like pollen, so turning on the AC when outdoor allergen counts are high

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can make seasonal allergies more manageable.

Consider treatments

Over-the-counter treatments like antihistamines, nasal sprays and decongestants provide most individuals with sufficient relief from their seasonal allergies. If OTC remedies are ineffective, treatments such as allergen immunotherapy and a consultation with an allergen may be necessary.

Seasonal allergies can spoil an otherwise welcoming spring day. But there are many ways for individuals to corral their seasonal allergies and still enjoy spring sun.

factors go into

Hands-on projects can teach children ways to aid and protect birds.

Spring Home Improvement

Poisonous plants to avoid having around the house

Metro Creative Homeowners must consider various factors when choosing plants to display in and around their homes. That’s because, despite their beauty, various plants are toxic to humans and animals.

Avoiding potentially poisonous plants can prevent injuries and even deaths. Here’s a list of some plants homeowners may want to avoid.

Rhododendron: Rhododendrons produce flower clusters that bloom in the spring. They also produce thick, glossy leaves that thrive in the fall and winter in many areas. If any part of the plant is swallowed it can cause vomiting and potentially slow the pulse.

Lily-of-the-valley: This popular plant grows close to the ground, blooming bellshaped, sweet-smelling flowers. If large doses of the toxin in this plant are ingested, it can gradually slow the heart down and potentially prove fatal.

Dumb cane: The houseplant dieffenbachia, commonly known as Dumb cane, adds tropical appeal indoors. The sap of the plant causes the tongue to burn and swell, enough to block off air to the throat. It can be fatal if ingested by both pets and humans.

English ivy: This go-to draping vine looks lovely cascading down from planters or shelving. While its toxins need to be ingested in large amounts to cause problems, English ivy can cause skin irritation, rash and fever, particularly after eating the berries.

Bittersweet nightshade: Bittersweet nightshade grows as a weed on some properties. It’s particularly problematic for those who have pets or young kids because of the brightly colored berries it produces. The highest level of toxicity comes from these berries.

Foxglove: According to The Spruce: Decor, foxgloves are among the most toxic specimens commonly grown on landscapes. They are widely coveted for their pink,

purple and white bell-shaped flowers that grow in tall spires. They’re also deer- and rabbit-resistant, making them especially popular. However, foxgloves contain potent cardiac glycosides that can be lethal in high doses.

Philodendron: Philodendron are easy to care for and hearty. While not fatal, a bite of philodendron can irritate the skin and cause nausea and swelling of the mouth, throat and tongue. Similar effects occur with Pothos, anorther

common and hearty houseplant.

Yew shrubs: The needlelike leaves of this shrub are toxic to humans and animals, as are the fleshy, bright red berries that grow toxic seeds. Kids may be tempted to pick and consume these bright berries.

Palms: Several different palm trees are poisonous to people and pets. Palms are an overlooked source of poisoning tragedies in warmer climates.

Landscaping tips for instant curb appeal 5 ways to spring

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One of the best ways to achieve instant curb appeal, according to the experts, is to effectively layer shrubs, plants and flowers in your front yard.

Doing so can create a cohesive visual experience that naturally guides visitors to the front door.

Landscape designer Doug Scott describes plant layering in art terms: “Just like in a painting, you need to have a background, a middle ground and a foreground. Each layer serves a purpose, and there’s no more important place for them to be on full display than your home’s entrance.”

To help homeowners understand the purpose of plant layering and identify the best types of plants for each layer, Scott has joined forces with Exmark, a leading manufacturer of commercial mowers and equipment for landscape professionals and serious DIY-ers. Here they break it down for you:

1. Background: The background layer should consist of taller evergreen shrubs to ensure that no matter what’s in front of them, you and your visitors will always have something green to look at. This layer provides a cohesive backdrop and a bit of living color in every season.

2. Middle Ground: Here’s where to step it down a notch in height and add interesting shapes, colors or stripes that provide contrast against the darker green of the background layer. Herbaceous perennials, like lavender, are a good choice for this purpose.

3. Foreground: Finally, the foreground layer should help transition the planting beds to your lawn space or sidewalk, and should therefore be lower than the back two layers. It’s also where you can keep things fresh and get your hands

Don’t obstruct views of your front door from the street with plants. Likewise, visitors shouldn’t have to maneuver around plants as they make their way down the sidewalk.

DID YOU KNOW?

The National Association of Landscape Professionals notes that lawns can support a significant number of insects feeding on them because the grass grows much faster than the insects can damage it. But noticeable damage, such as brown patches in the grass, severed roots and grass that is easily pulled up, indicate that insect infestations are significant enough to

dirty throughout the year by changing out annuals with the seasons. Or, if you want a lower-maintenance entrance, you can choose smaller perennials, evergreens or creeping ground covers. Use the foreground layer as an opportunity to add pops of color at ground level and draw attention to your home's entrance.

Scott lays out a few other important tips to keep in mind:

■ Choose plants consistent with your home’s style. For instance, if you have a craftsman home, you should probably skip tropical plants. Or, if your home is more minimalist, avoid an overabundance of different plants.

■ Don’t obstruct views of your front door from the

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require intervention. Lawn care professionals can work with homeowners to develop solutions to address insect infestations. Infestation prevention involves a handful of strategies, not the least of which is ensuring a lawn is properly cared for. Such care delivers nutrients to the lawn and reduces its risk of becoming undernourished.

street with plants. Likewise, visitors shouldn’t have to maneuver around plants as they make their way down the sidewalk. Neither is convenient or welcoming, so you’ll either need to keep pruning plants to size, or choose plants that won’t overgrow their space without a ton of pruning.

■ To make your entrance “the star” it should be, the plant material in the rest of your front yard shouldn’t be distracting. Rather let it frame the intended view. Scott offers more plant layering tips in “Making an Entrance,” a recent episode of “Done-In-A-Weekend Projects,” an original series from Exmark. To watch the video, visit Backyard Life, which is part of a unique multimedia destination with a focus on helping home­

owners make the most of outdoor spaces. There you can also download additional tips and view other Exmark Original Series videos, including “Dream Yards,” “Living Rural,” “Prime Cuts” and “Done In a Weekend — Extreme Projects.” Through effective plant layering, you can boost curb appeal and give your home the grand entrance it deserves.

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Falling short of your goals? In a period of stagnation? It may be time to spring clean your routine. Here are a few tips and ideas for getting more done with greater ease.

1. Spruce up your settings: Do you find some of the push notifications on your phone distracting? Give yourself the gift of fewer beeps and buzzes by spending just a few minutes reviewing and changing the notification settings of your apps.

2. Squeeze in self-care:

Taking regular breaks from your work is essential. Not only are these interludes good for your mind and body, they can actually help you be more creative and productive. However, if you’re someone who loses track of time easily when you’re concentrating, you may need a tool to remind you to step away from your workstation. That’s where a watch like those in the G-Shock lineup can be of assistance. Equipped with multi-function alarms, a step tracker and a heart rate monitor, you may just be motivated to use your break to take a brisk walk.

3. Reduce mealtime stress: If weeknight dinners are rushed and chaotic but you don’t want to resort to takeout more than once or twice a week, try subscrib­

Easter Flowers Blooming Pansies Spring Perennials Early Vegetable Plants

ing to a meal kit service that delivers all the ingredients and instructions you need to create delicious and wholesome home-cooked meals. The good news is that many such services have ever-changing menus, as well as flexible options for those who are on special diets. These kits can also be a good way for kitchen novices to master basic culinary skills before embarking on more complicated efforts.

4. Stay focused: Everyone is overscheduled these days. Having tech tools handy that keep you task-oriented can help ensure you never miss an important meeting or appointment. Those who embrace classic styles should consider Casio Edifice watches. Particularly suitable for those who frequently travel or work with others in different time zones, the watch displays the time of cities all around the world. And because the watches are water-resistant and in many cases, solar-powered, it’s a timepiece you can rely on.

5. Write it down: On the first of each month, take a few moments to jot down any goals you have for the month ahead, as well as any habits you want to start or stop. Take time to note how you are planning to fulfill your objectives. At the end of the month, review what worked and what didn’t. Getting out of a rut can be as simple as making a few tweaks to your routine.

Spring Home Improvement

Signs of pest infestation

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Pests come in many shapes and sizes, from the smallest of insects that crawl through crevices or under moldings to larger mammals that find their way into attics and basements.

Taking care of a home or buying a new one can be stressful enough without having to contend with a potential pest infestation. Much like any other home issue, like a leak or faulty electrical system, pests can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Furthermore, the droppings left from certain creatures can compromise human health. For example, National Exterminating says rodents can spread hantavirus, while droppings from other pests can exacerbate asthma and allergies.

The best way to stay ahead of potential pest problems is to recognize signs that pests are present.

Droppings

A classic sign of infestation, pet waste includes fecal droppings or urine trails. Certain waste is easier to spot than others. For example, bed bug droppings are much smaller than mice or rat

droppings. Homeowners can carry out thorough examinations of furniture, bedding, walls, floors, and areas of the home that get little foot traffic to look for pests.

Dead bodies

Another sign that points to pests is the presence of dead insect or animal bodies. A large number is indicative of a pest problem.

Active pests

The experts at Batzner Pest Control say that live animals or insects in and around the home are potential signs of infestation. Most are very good at hiding, so finding live specimens may require some investigating in the kitchen, bathrooms and outdoors near the perimeter of the home.

Evidence of nesting

Most animals want somewhere cozy and comfortable to bed down and will use materials available to them when making nests. Look for shredded paper, feathers, gathered twigs or grasses, home insulation piles, or any other red flags that could be nests.

Smells, sights and sounds

Animals and insects can

give off smells and make sounds. Roaches are said to have an “oily” odor, while mice may produce “musty” smells. Homeowners may hear gnawing, squeaking, scurrying, or scratching.

In addition, there may be holes, gnaw marks, signs of burrows, and other signs of pests. Wood shavings or sawdust could indicate the presence of termites, which cause serious structural damage.

Stored pesticides

People who are viewing a potential new home and find cans and canisters of pesticides or pest traps should recognize that there is likely a problem with animals or insects there.

Pests can be a concern for homeowners, who can overcome the issue after learning to identify signs of their presence.

Some plants act as natural insect repellants

Metro Creative Homeowners 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.

many garden centers recommend in areas prone to drought or hot summers without much precipitation.

Spacing out plants is one of several ways to reduce insect or animal pest numbers in food gardens.

All-natural ways to protect gardens from pests

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Homeowners 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 all-natural 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. Soap-and-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 absor-

bent 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.

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 can 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 it can be used to repel mosquitoes and moths.

■ 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

■ 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’ Almanac” recommends using 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.

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Home Improvement

Signs of winter lawn damage

Corral crabgrass in your backyard

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A well-manicured lawn adds undeniable curb appeal to a property. Homeowners who take pride in their lawns should know that they can take that pride all the way to the bank, as investing in a pristine lawn can provide a significant return at resale.

A 2019 report from the real estate experts at HomeLight found that a $268 investment in lawn care service can add $1,211 at resale. That’s a 352 percent return on investment.

Snow-covered lawns can be pretty, but heavy snowfall can contribute to winter lawn damage.

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Snow-covered lawns can be pretty, but heavy snowfall can contribute to winter lawn damage.

Mother Nature can be harsh on a lawn, and it’s up to homeowners to nurse their lawns back to health after they endure the elements. That’s often the case when winter ends and homeowners uncover signs of damage to their lawns.

Homeowners cannot begin to repair winter lawn damage until they learn to identify it, and the following are some telltale signs that winter took a harsh toll on a landscape.

Wilted grass: Many things can cause grass to wilt over the course of winter, so homeowners may have to put on their sleuth’s cap to determine

why grass that was healthy as recently as late fall is now wilted as the spring bloom begins.

Grass that’s adjacent to walkways and driveways might have wilted due to the application of de-icing solutions.

Such products can prevent the formation of ice on driveways and walkways. However, when they’re tracked onto the grass by people or animals or blown there by winter winds, grass can wilt. A deep watering in spring can flush any lingering solution from the lawn. In future winters, homeowners can be as careful as possible when applying de-icing solutions, making a concerted effort to avoid spreading any onto the grass and limited applications to areas of the driveway and walkways that are not close to the grass.

Brown patches: The National Association of Landscape Professionals notes that brown patches in a lawn often develop after heavy snowfall. Such patches tend to develop where large piles of shoveled snow were deposited, so homeowners can inspect alongside driveways and walkways. The NALP advises homeowners to rake away part of the brown patches first. If green tissue is emerging beneath, then the lawn will likely be fine in due time.

However, if the area beneath is not green and surrounding areas are already turning green, homeowners may need to rake up dead tissue before applying topsoil to the affected spots. Once topsoil is spread, some grass seed can be spread and the grass should regain its green glory.

Gray or pink grass: Another indicator of winter lawn damage linked to snow is gray or pink grass. The NALP reports that this is a byproduct of snow mold caused by lingering snow. Action may be unnecessary, as the NALP notes these circular patterns often go away on their own. If not, raking the affected areas might be enough to get the lawn on the road to recovery. If the issue continues to linger after raking, a topsoil application and subsequent seeding may be necessary. These are three common signs of winter lawn damage in areas where snowfall is significant during the coldest months of the year.

Homeowners concerned about their damaged lawns are urged to contact a local landscape professional to correct any issues that linger into spring.

6 ways to make your garden successful

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Homeowners enjoy gardening for many different reasons. In addition to adding beauty to a property, gardens can offset grocery costs by yielding tasty produce. They also offer important habitats and food sources for both insects and animals.

While growing a vegetable or flower garden can turn into a rewarding hobby, or even a passion, gardening also can be overwhelming — particularly when the results are less than stellar. Novice gardeners have scores of resources at their disposal, including the advice of gardeners who have made mistakes and learned from them. The following guidance can make home gardens that much more successful.

1. Start small. You may have visions of an expansive garden growing rows of crops or acres of flowers. But it is smart to start small and build on what you find successful, which includes plants that thrive in your lawn and garden. This also is beneficial if you are unsure of vegetable yields. Several blooming plants producing bushels of crops can be overwhelming, especially if you can’t get to harvesting or cooking them in a timely fashion.

2. Assess the soil.

Plants need nutrient-rich soil to encourage extensive root systems and produce strong, hardy plants, according to the gardening resource GrowVeg. Nourish soil with organic matter, such as manure, compost, shredded leaves, and natural mulch. Add this organic matter in the off-season to give it enough time to be incorporated into the ground before spring. You can have your soil tested for pH and other characteristics that make it friendly or averse to plants at a local garden center.

3. Arm yourself with knowl-

Novice gardeners have scores of resources at their disposal, including the advice of gardeners who have made mistakes and learned from them. edge.

Do you know how deeply to plant seeds and how far apart to space plants? Are you aware of the sunlight needs of certain flowers or plants? If not, read the packaging and do your research so your plants have the best chance of not only sprouting, but also surviving. Many people prefer to start seedlings indoors in late winter and then transfer those plants outdoors when they are stronger and more established.

4. Sit in your yard and observe. Watch the way the sunlight dances over areas of your landscape. Take note of which areas get the most sun and shade. This will help you plan what to plant and where to plant it. Vegetable gardens tend to need ample sunlight to bear pick-worthy produce. You can give plants a leg up by growing them in optimal conditions.

5. Choose hardy varieties. Certain plants have been bred to thrive in your climate, including heat-tolerant plants for climates with sweltering summer sun. Consult with a local gardening center to figure out which plant zone you are in and which plants will

do best within that zone.

6. Use rainwater. Rainwater contains fewer contaminants and additives

Homeowners can capitalize on a pristine lawn even further by tending to their own lawns. Crabgrass is one lawn problem that can compromise the look of an otherwise lush lawn. Thankfully, crabgrass can be controlled without much effort.

Identifying crabgrass

Crabgrass is a weed that grows in areas of a lawn that are bare or where the grass is thin. Crabgrass gets its name from its appearance, as it grows from the center outward and mimics the look of crab legs emerging from the center shell.

The growth of crabgrass

The University of Minnesota Extension notes that crabgrass is an annual plant. That means a crabgrass infestation that’s problematic once the mercury rises in the summer will die out in late fall or early winter.

But crabgrass germinates in the spring, so homeowners will want to take steps to prevent it long before it becomes an eyesore in summer.

How to corral crabgrass

The UME notes that ap­

plication of a pre-emergent herbicide before crabgrass seeds can germinate is an effective way to eliminate it.

The timing of that application can be tricky, as jumping the gun and applying the herbicide too early can prove fruitless.

The same goes for applying herbicides too late. Crabgrass will likely still grow if the herbicide is applied too early or too late. UME recommends applying a pre-emergent herbicide when soil temperatures approach 55 F.

Home Depot notes that a chemical treatment may be applied after crabgrass has already grown in, but this option requires careful application to avoid killing surrounding healthy grass. Crabgrass can be pulled out by hand, but such an approach can be physically daunting.

That’s especially so because crabgrass thrives when the weather is hot and dry. So homeowners who intend to pull crabgrass by hand can decrease their risk of dehydration or heat-related illness by drinking plenty of water and pulling the grass during early morning or evening hours when the sun is lower and temperatures are more mild.

Crabgrass can compromise the look of an otherwise healthy lawn. But various strategies can eliminate crabgrass and restore a lawn without much effort on the part of homeowners.

DID YOU KNOW

When planning spring landscapes, homeowners should always group plants with similar water needs together. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, grouping plants with similar water needs together helps to conserve water, which can be an especially useful strategy if or when drought restrictions go into effect in summer.

Homeowners also can embrace additional strategies to landscape with water conservation in mind. For example, aerat­

than tap water, which can benefit garden plants. Collect rainwater in rain barrels and use irrigation systems to deliver it to the garden.

Your electrical wiring is too important to leave to just anyone. You can trust our careful professional service to wire your system safely and efficiently.

When

ing soil helps to improve water flow to plants’ roots and reduces water runoff, helping to ensure that plants get all of the water they need while reducing the likelihood that homeowners will have to use excessive amounts of water to keep plants healthy. In addition, using low-water-using types of grass can help homeowners who live in areas prone to drought conserve water while still maintaining lush, green lawns.

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