2024 Durango Home and Ranch Show

2024 DURANGO

Noon-5 p.m. Friday, April 26

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, April 27

LA PLATA COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS & EVENT CENTER

Admission $5, free for children under 12 a portion of ticket sales benefitting the Durango 4-H Youth Development Program

Platinum Sponsor of the 2024 Home & Ranch Show

April 26th-27th, 2024

L a Plata County Fairgrounds

Scan here to learn more

Ballantine Communications uses reasonable effort to include accurate and up-to-date information for its special magazine publications. However, all information comes from a variety of sources and may change at any time for any reason. To verify specific information, refer to the organization or business noted. To view the online version of this guide, visit www.durangoherald.com

2024 DURANGO PRESENTS

SHOW

The 29th Home & Ranch Show presented by Ballantine Events returns to the La Plata County Fairgrounds & Event Center.

As a spring tradition, the show brings together a variety of regional experts and business owners who provide excellent products and services that improve homes and ranches across La Plata County and other Four Corners communities.

This year’s show is sponsored by some fantastic Four Corners businesses, including Ting, Silver Creek Design, Diversified Roofing, Badlands Billiards & Hot Tubs, Four Corners Broadcasting, 365 Roofing, LPEA, Farha Roofing, Any Event Rental and AAA Colorado.

Ballantine curates special events that connect your business to new and inquiring customers. Each event allows a business owner to put a personal touch on marketing efforts with the opportunity to highlight products and services inperson for curious customers.

While at the show, enjoy live entertainment by Rob Webster and devour some delicious snacks from local food vendors. Plus, don’t miss the chance to win some incredible door prizes from our participating vendors including: gift certificates and gift baskets, artwork by Mariah Kaminsky, a custom cooler from 365 Roofing, a television from Farha Roofing, and a dog house from TuffShed. ‚

EVENT INFORMATION:

Noon-5 p.m. Friday, April 26

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, April 27

ADMISSION:

$5 • children under 12 free senior and veteran discounts available at the door

Mariah Kaminsky Fine Art

Mariah Kaminsky is inspired by the innocence in a curious child’s eyes, feminine strength and resilience, sparks of positivity in the mundane moments. The local artist endeavors to capture characteristics on a canvas in great detail to showcase the beauty in every day.

Born and raised in northern Indiana, Kaminsky said she always had an instinct for replicating a subject’s attributes and proportions on different scales. While studying Design and Technical Theater at Ball State University, Kaminsky worked as a scenic artist at playhouses in Maine and Indiana. She enjoyed the challenge of painting sets filled with realistic details that could be viewed at a distance in the theater.

In 2001, Kaminsky moved to Durango with her husband. Though she has spent more than two decades as an artist here, she opened Mariah Kaminsky Fine Art in 2010 to focus on portrait work. She is a member of the Portrait Society of America and the International Guild of Realism. Kaminsky has also studied with modern day masters and continues to hone her skills in the studio daily.

Even those who have not met Kaminsky may still be familiar with her work. As a skilled mural artist, she brings beauty to bland exterior and interior walls. One recent example is the public mural at 3473 North Main Ave. in Durango titled “Simple Pleasures” as part of the Durango Creates! Grant program. The artist incorporated small easter eggs, such as a mouse crawling over the rocks, into the larger-than-life painting.

Kaminsky supports community engagement in the arts, and enjoys the conversations she has with strangers while painting in public. She also appreciates opportunities to collaborate with other artists, and will be working with eight others on the mural project at the Santa Rita Water Reclamation Facility. It will be unveiled in June during Animas River Days. ‚

First Melt

Roofs, Driveways, Gutters & Patios

Avoid Roof, Structural & Water Damage

Certified Installer

John Coughlan- 970-759-9838 (cell) www.firstmelt.com

firstcutcontractors.com

First Cut

General Contractor

John Coughlan

(970) 759-9838 ✦ coughlan@animas.net

(970) 759-9838 ✦ jcoughlan33@gmail.com

5 luxury features buyers desire

The real estate market has experienced significant ups and downs the past few years. Historically low interest rates coupled with a surging interest to move to communities with more outdoor space led to a lot of movement and high home prices.

As the tides begin to turn again, individuals who are in position to buy right now may be more selective in what they are seeking in homes, particularly if they’re spending top dollar. Current homeowners planning to put their homes on the market may want to consider these five luxury renovations to set properties apart.

1

SMART HOME FEATURES: It’s now common for new home builders to include smart home technology when building. Home tech, like intuitive home assistants, smart lights and outlets to control appliances from a smartphone app, and similar features can make a home more appealing.

2

MODERN OPEN FLOOR PLANS:

Even though realtors see some shift to buyers wanting homes with delineated borders, many buyers

are still drawn to open concepts. Sellers may want to consider opening up rooms or removing walls.

3 OUTDOOR KITCHEN: A luxury indoor kitchen is a major draw for buyers, but people are seeking properties that also maximize outdoor entertaining spaces. Having an outdoor kitchen with built-in grill, sink, counters for food preparation, and a refrigerator or wine chiller may be coveted.

4

SALTWATER POOLS: Pools have both pros and cons at resale. Therefore, sellers should speak with a realtor before installing a pool simply to make a home more appealing. However, if there is a pool, converting the set-up to a saltwater system may win over buyers. Saltwater systems rely on fewer chemicals and proponents say the water feels more silky and less irritating.

5 UPGRADED OWNER’S SUITE: An owner’s suite complete with luxury spa bath, walk-in closet with built-in storage, sitting area, and potentially access to an outdoor space will win raves with buyers. ‚

Selling a home today is a bit more challenging, but luxury home features can tip the scales in sellers’ favor.

Improving storage in common areas

Increasing storage capabilities at home is a popular goal among many homeowners and renters. Despite how much space a person may have at home, there’s often a desire to have more or maximize the areas that are there. According to the Self-Storage Almanac, there are an estimated 51,206 storage facilities operating in the United States today, and MJ Partners SelfStorage Update says 11.1% of households currently rent at self-storage facilities.

People often turn to external storage facilities to house their belongings when space is at a premium at home. Others may focus their organization energy on closets, garages and basements to free up room. But common areas around the home also can provide additional sources of storage. Common areas are locations where people come together for activities.

appeal but also can be filled with board games or books. Cabinet-style TV stands may not be as streamlined as mounted versions, but they’re ideal places to stash games, remote controls and other accessories.

Entryway

Homeowners can make common areas more functional with the addition of storage.

Living room/family room

Living rooms and family rooms are areas of the home where people spend many hours. These tend to be multifunctional spaces where people entertain, lounge and even enjoy movies or gaming. Possibilities in these living spaces that can create extra storage include furniture that serves double-duty. For example, a storage ottoman adds decorative

An entryway or mudroom can quickly succumb to clutter. When organizing such a space, think about the needs of the household. A storage bench will be a place where everyone can sit to put on shoes, and then stow footwear underneath when not in use. A wall-mounted rack can hold the current season’s jackets or sweaters, as well as purses or backpacks for easy access. A shelf with some hooks can store keys or hold a basket to store the daily mail.

Hallway and closet

Closet organization systems can be the unsung heroes in closets utilized by multiple members of the family. These customizeable components can be sized accordingly for the space, and then configured as needed with a balance of shelves and hanging racks. An out-of-the-way nook or long hallway can be enhanced with a bookshelf to hold photo albums or that library that only continues to grow as new reading material is acquired. ‚

How to recognize when it’s time to replace your windows

Windows are a major component of a home.

Window installation professionals will tell homeowners that the average life span of residential windows is between 15 and 30 years. Most well-maintained products can last 20 years, so homeowners who have windows approaching that age may want to schedule a window assessment and possible replacement. Replacing windows is a job that requires advanced skill, and this is not a do-it-yourself project. There are many qualified professional window installation companies that will work with homeowners to measure, order and install windows that will fit with the style of a home and local weather, all while providing features the homeowner desires.

For those wondering when to replace windows, Pella and Renewal by Andersen, two of the premiere window manufacturers, offer these guidelines.

, DIFFICULTY OPENING AND CLOSING WINDOWS. A window that does not operate as it should can aggravate homeowners. If windows are sticking shut or cannot be securely closed, it’s probably time for something new.

, THERE’S APPARENT WINDOW DAMAGE. Accidents happen, and if a rock is kicked up from a lawnmower and cracks a window or if spring baseball practice has gone awry with an errant throw, windows may require replacement.

, DRAFTS IN THE WINDOW ARE COMMON. If heating and cooling systems are working overtime, drafty, poorly insulated windows could be to blame. Various agencies can perform energy efficiency tests in a home. Windows that are determined to be the weak spots should be replaced.

, DATED WINDOWS ARE PRESENT IN THE HOME. Older windows may pose safety hazards, especially those in older homes. A larger window may be needed to comply with fire safety codes allowing for window egress. Dated windows also may simply look “old” and compromise the aesthetics of a home.

, OUTDOOR NOISES ARE NOTICED QUITE READILY. Newer windows can help reduce noise transmission. So those leaf blowers, airplanes, barking dogs, and kids playing basketball up the street won’t disturb homeowners as they try to enjoy some peace and quiet indoors.

, FADING INDOORS IS NOTED. Windows that do not feature lowemissivity (Low-E) glass coatings will not block UV rays. Those rays can cause fading to wood floors and furniture or pretty much anything the sunlight touches. Replacing existing windows with Low-E coating alternatives can safeguard belongings and improve window efficiency. ‚

Window replacement may be necessary when existing windows are showing signs of aging or damage.

Win gift certificates valued at $100 to the Durango Hot Springs or Seasons of Durango BOOTH 68

365 Roofing

As a commercial and residential roofing contractor, 365 Roofing provides construction, maintenance, replacement and repair services.

4 Corners Worm Farm

Novice gardeners and gurus alike can learn a thing or two from Frank and Wendy Dean. They are eager to share their knowledge about soil health and how to turn waste into nutrient-rich soil amendment.

AAA Colorado

Learn about the benefits of AAA memberships this year. For daily commutes and weekend getaways, AAA Colorado can save travelers more on safety, security and peace of mind.

Animas Craft Woodworks

Using traditional and modern woodworking techniques, owner Noah Arvidson creates custom cabinets, built-ins, furniture, doors and more. See samples of his designs at the show.

Badlands Billiards & Hot Tubs

Badlands Billiards and Hot Tubs specializes in providing luxury items for game rooms and outdoor living spaces, such as billiards and shuffleboard tables as well as pools and hot tubs.

Beaver Overhead Door Co.

For full-service garage door sales, installation and maintenance, Beaver Overhead Door provides both commercial and residential clients with solutions that fit their individual needs.

Clearnetworx

The high-speed internet service provider Clearnetworx is based in Montrose, Colorado. They offer residential, business and enterprise packages for reliable connections with no data caps or hidden fees.

Cleary Building Corp.

Cleary Building Corp. is a national company that specializes in the design, engineering, manufacturing, delivery and construction of pre-engineered buildings. The structures serve a variety of purposes for commercial and residential clients.

Cutco Cutlery

Cutco manufactures American-made knives and kitchen utensils backed by the Forever Guarantee. As part of its promise, the company offers free sharpening and replaces products if customers are not satisfied with their performance.

Design Surfaces by Floor Trader

Since 1996, Design Surfaces by Floor Trader based in Farmington has offered a wide selection of flooring, countertops, cabinets, veneer stone, shower glass and artificial grass to upgrade a home.

Diversified Roofing

As a local company, Diversified Roofing prioritizes high-quality materials, workmanship and customer service. The team of skilled roofing professionals provide exceptional craftsmanship to minimize the risk of future issues.

Durango Fire Protection District

Durango Fire provides an all-hazards service which not only includes suppression of fires, medical services, patient transport and rescues as well as fire prevention, fire code enforcement and public education.

Durango Gourmet Popcorn / Hawaiian Shaved Ice

This local snack shop offers a wide selection of tempting treats such as gourmet popcorn, cookies, roasted nuts and more. Made with quality

ingredients, these snacks are sure to satisfy sweet and salty cravings.

Durango Ski and Patio

Located west of Durango off Highway 160, Durango Ski and Patio offers comfortable and stylish patio furniture, firepits and umbrellas for outdoor living in addition to gaming tables for indoor recreation.

Durango Trash Panda

Rent a dumpster to be rid of waste during construction and renovation projects – whether residential, commercial or industrial. In addition to set-up and delivery, the service also includes one trip to the landfill.

Element Plumbing

Expect fast, flexible and reliable plumbing solutions with Element Plumbing. The professionals provide a full range of commercial and residential services, including plumbing, sewer and septic repair, drain cleaning, water heater replacement and leak repair.

Farha Roofing

Farha Roofing offers installation, maintenance and repair services for commercial, industrial and residential buildings. The award-winning roofing company also works with any and every type of roofing material to exceed project expectations.

Fence Easier

Fence Easier provides access to user-friendly fence construction and installation. The unique system results in professional-quality DIY fencing with quick installation.

First Cut General Contractor

Specializing in customized snow melt systems and ice removal, First Cut General Contracting helps homeowners protect structures year-round. The professionals have served the greater Durango area for over 25 years.

Flawless Results

Flawless Results helps customers complete refreshing renovations and high-end improvements. Because the business offers financing, installation and quality products, it is a one-stop shop for homeowners.

Fun Center

With three locations in the Four Corners region, Fun Center provides a large selection of new and used recreational vehicles and watercraft. Customers can expect friendly service and reliable professionals whether renting or purchasing from Fun Center.

Gardens of Fire

Founder Sam Bennett is dedicated to upcycling local carbon for the soil, and charging it naturally in the ecosystem with the goal of changing and improving the environment one gram of biochar at a time.

Gotcha Covered

For custom window coverings, such as blinds, draperies, shutters and more, Gotcha Covered offers expert design consultations to find a solution that not only meets your needs, but fits the budget as well.

Heartwood West Tree Service LLC

Tom Eskew’s arboricultural career spans three decades. In 1992, he started Heartwood West Tree Service to provide assistance with pruning and removals, crane service and safety.

Heuer Homes

As a 3D home-printing company, Heuer Homes designs and engineers small, durable and efficient homes. With 40 years of experience in construction, the team of professionals can help clients customize a new home in a more affordable and sustainable way.

La Plata County Humane Society

As a nonprofit organization, the local humane society’s mission is to provide shelter for homeless animals, rescue animals in distress, aid in animal cruelty investigations and prosecutions and prevent pet overpopulation.

La Plata Electric Association

Through community partnerships, LPEA provides safe, reliable electricity to the region at a reasonable cost. Talk with the representatives to learn more about the co-op’s goal to provide more environmentally responsible services.

La Plata Lavender

La Plata Lavender offers local selfcare products, like lip balm, lotion and salve, made with simple ingredients. Find these products at local stores like Dietz Market, Old Barrel Tea Company, Bayfield Pharmacy and Paradise Pedis.

La Plata Quilters Guild

Looking for functional artwork for your home? This nonprofit organization is a passionate group of quilt makers that use unique patterns and colors to create beautiful bedding.

Lifetime Spas

Lifetime Spas has 21 years of

experience installing pools and hot tubs. As an Eco Spa wholesaler, Lifetime Spas will deliver products directly from the factory to customers.

Lone Elk Fire

Based out of Ignacio, Lone Elk Fire offers free estimates for fire mitigation services. The team of experts are experienced wildland firefighters, serving La Plata County and the surrounding area.

Lowe's Home Improvement

As a national chain, Lowe’s offers one of the largest selections of home improvement products. Store associates have the experience and training to assist customers with finding the right solution for various home projects.

M&R Plumbing Services

The team at M&R serves the region with respect for your home, time and wallet. The business provides professional plumbing installation, maintenance and repair services in addition to electrical services and damage restoration.

Mariah Kaminsky Fine Art

Local artist Mariah Kaminsky is best known for her realistic paintings which include portraits and life-size murals. Kaminsky will showcase decorative finishes focusing on leafing products (gold, silver, copper, etc.) with demonstrations of the process.

Pathfinder Chiropractic

Using state-of-the-art technologies, Pathfinder Chiropractic can assess body structure to measure muscle and nerve function. The professionals at this local office can customize care to the individual.

Phantastic Screens

For more than 26 years, Phantastic Screens has provided a variety of retractable screens with custom casings for doors, windows and outdoor living spaces. The Four Corners location is an authorized expert in installation and maintenance.

R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating, Inc.

As Farmington’s expert residential air conditioning, heating and plumbing company, and licensed Carrier dealer, R.A. Biel offers professional service and helpful financing options for customers in San Juan County, New Mexico and Southwest Colorado.

Raindrops of the Four Corners

Visit Raindrops of Four Corners for the widest selection of fireplaces and woodstoves, spas and sprinkler systems. The experienced staff offer incredible customer service for all maintenance needs and repairs.

Renewal By Andersen

Replacing windows in a home is easier with a full-service provider, like Renewal Andersen. From consultation to installation, the professionals can walk you through the process for a smooth experience.

Rogue Goat Soap

Whether caring for delicate skin or scrubbing the grime off after an adventure, Rogue Goat Soap is a natural and toxin-free alternative to traditional soap made with goat milk, tallow and high-quality essential oils.

Ross Boot & Saddle

Founded in 1976, Pagosa Springs-based business Ross Boot and Saddle uses 100% genuine leather and thoughtful crafting to create custom goods for clients. Owner, Jon Ross, offers boot, saddle and tack repair.

Rural 1st

Rural 1st offers lending options for lots, land, construction and properties. The professionals at Rural 1st walk clients through the process of securing financing for rural properties.

Shaw Solar

Founded in 2006, Shaw Solar is a local source for installation and maintenance of solar energy systems. The small team of experts help clients increase their home’s value, reduce their carbon footprint and eliminate electric bills.

Silver Creek Design

Looking for a local design studio to provide high-quality materials for building or renovating a home? Silver Creek Design offers a wide selection of cabinets, countertops, custom furniture, flooring, tile and window coverings.

SoCo Solar Power

As the building industry shifts toward more sustainable living and materials, SoCo Solar Power can help provide solar solutions and power storage to commercial and residential properties. This local service offers reliable service before, during and after the sale.

Southwest Ag

For over three decades, Southwest Ag has provided residents of the Four Corners with durable Kubota equipment for various home projects and agricultural operations. From rentals and purchases to maintenance and repair, SWAG offers incredible service.

Southwest Concrete Coatings

Southwest Concrete Coatings provides high-quality floor coatings to preserve

the beauty of flooring and concrete long-term. The Penntek-certified installation team focuses on executing every job correctly and efficiently.

Southwest Water & Ice Solutions

Consult experts in specialized roofing solutions at Southwest Water and Ice Solutions. This local, family-owned business provides product education, sales, installation and support services.

Steel Fire Studio

Steel Fire Studio works with retailers, designers and owners of gas fire pits to craft customized steel logs that resemble the look of synthetic logs for fire pits which last much longer than traditional synthetic logs.

SunGlass Durango

As a long-standing business in our region, SunGlass is a trusted full-service glass shop that helps customers solve problems in a timely manner. In addition to residential and commercial glass needs, the business also provides custom shower doors.

Superior Sleep

Improve well-being with a good night’s rest. Superior Sleep provides customers with a wide selection of sleep solutions, such as adjustable beds and high-quality mattresses.

Ted’s Rentals

As Durango’s oldest and largest equipment rental store, Ted’s Rental and Sales provides a range of services in addition to equipment rental and delivery, such as keyless entry and key cutting services, snowblower servicing and chain saw sharpening.

The Awning Source LLC

For personalized shade solutions, such as awnings, canopies and pergolas, The Awning Source provides options for commercial and residential clients in the Four Corners area. The business

offers high-quality products to withstand regional weather.

The Farmstead

As a small, family-owned farm, The Farmstead sells locally raised chicken and pork, as well as fresh baked goods like cinnamon rolls and sourdough breads. All products are farm-to-table, made with high-quality ingredients.

The HandyMatt

After honing craftsmanship skills and developing an eye for detail, Matt Leitner opened The HandyMatt to provide property maintenance and handyman services. He helps homeowners with maintenance, repairs, upgrades and installations.

Ting

Using the latest fiber optic technology, Ting provides fast, reliable, high-speed internet service in areas with limited options.

Tuff Shed

From garages and sheds to commercial and recreational facilities, Tuff Shed provides simple solutions to storage and more. Local sales and design consultants help clients select products that accommodate their needs and budget.

Westwood Culligan

Since 1948, Westwood Culligan has offered quality water treatment, softeners, filtration, reverse osmosis filters and more for homes and businesses. The equipment is the best in the business and backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Wiki-licious Durango

Kirsten Westbrook founded Wikilicious in order to bring the traditional taste of Hawaiian malasadas, delicious doughnuts filled with flavorful custards and creams, to Southwest Colorado and beyond. Grab one of these sweet treats at the show.

How to create an outdoor living retreat

Al fresco entertaining has taken off in recent years. It’s much more common today to find homeowners who want to extend living spaces to the outdoors in meaningful ways that go beyond a few lawn chairs and a stand-alone grill. Dream backyard living rooms mirror similar spaces indoors and contain features like cozy corners, lush furniture and televisions or movie projectors. Plus, they often abut additional outdoor luxuries like fully functional kitchens. Homeowners have various options when designing outdoor living spaces. Above all else, spaces should be created with the goal of encouraging people to get together. Here are some ideas.

Poolside retreat

Homeowners with pools and other water features likely want this area to be the star of the entertaining space. Furniture will be more of the lounging variety, with comfortable chaises and spots to catch the sun. If a swimup bar isn’t possible, a rolling bar cart can be stocked with essentials for cocktails or mocktails for the kids. Furniture near the pool will be exposed to a lot of sun, so look for durable, sun-resistant fabrics.

Fireside nook

Gathering around an outdoor fireplace or fire pit is a treat when the weather cools down. Mirror the

look of the same setup indoors by arranging outdoor sofas so they flank the fireplace. Add some ottomans or side tables for stowing mulled cider or hot chocolate. A mantel above the fireplace can hold pots of greenery or candles that add to the ambiance.

Consider a custom banquette

Unused corners on a patio or rooftop retreat can utilize a custommade banquette that provides the functionality of a sofa sectional outdoors. Have a contractor design it to the exact specifications of the area, and add a rug to ground the space.

Vary the flooring

Depending on the entertaining space, a balance of soft grass, pavers or other hardscape will be necessary. Certain areas will need to be hard enough for chairs and other furniture, particularly for those who are including an outdoor dining table in the design.

Create some privacy

Some homeowners are lucky enough to have natural barriers that offer privacy in their entertaining spaces. When there isn’t enough, tall shrubs, inexpensive bamboo fencing or a trellis can provide a blind that makes an outdoor living area more cozy and private. Consider placing tall, potted plants on rolling casters to improve privacy as the need arises. ‚

Outdoor living spaces are all the rage, and they can add value and functionality to most any home.

THE AWNING SOURCE LLC

Creating Personalized Shade Solutions for Your Properties

Retractable Awnings, Sunscreens, Pergolas & More

(505) 539-6021

theawningsourcellc@gmail.com

www.awningsourcellc.com

Covering the Four Corners Region, Utah, and Arizona. Your one-stop solution for all event essentials. From tables, chairs, and canopies to catering necessities like dishware, glassware, flatware, linens, and beyond.

SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION!

SHOW SPECIAL

$2,000 off when you order at the Home & Ranch Show

Signs it’s time to repair or replace your deck

Spring is a season of rejuvenation that compels millions across the globe to quit hibernating and get back to enjoying the great outdoors. Spring also marks a great time to assess a home’s exterior, namely those areas like a deck where people will spend a lot of time in the warmer months to come.

Assessing a deck after winter can be eye-opening. Harsh winter weather can take its toll on a deck, and the following are some telltale signs that a deck could need some TLC.

, WOBBLY UNDERFOOT AND IN HAND: Wobbly planks and railings are one sign of a deteriorating deck homeowners won’t recognize as they hide from winter weather indoors. But these tend to reveal themselves rather quickly when examining a deck after winter. Wobbly planks in the middle of the deck can be inconvenient, but wobbly steps and railings can be dangerous. According to the home improvement resource Angi, wobbly railings can be a byproduct of rot. A local decking professional can assess the extent of the rot in railings and elsewhere and determine the best course of action. If the rot is isolated to an area or two, a simple repair may be all that’s necessary. Extensive rot may require a full replacement of the existing deck.

, FADED PAINT: Many homeowners paint their wood decks, and that paint will not last forever. Faded paint

can turn an otherwise lovely deck into an eyesore, and paint can fade over the winter. Thankfully, a local painter can address a faded deck and may recommend some additional strategies to safeguard the deck against fading next winter and beyond.

, HOLES IN THE WOOD: Many a homeowner has encountered curiouslooking holes in their deck. This could be a sign of insect infestation. Termites, carpenter ants and carpenter bees are among the various types of insects that can bore holes through wood. Homeowners who notice holes throughout their deck are urged to call a deck professional and/or pest control firm to assess the holes and offer a solution. Though small issues may be addressed with repairs, a deck littered with holes caused by insects may need a full replacement.

, RUST: Wood decks may be made of wood, but they can still exhibit signs of rust, namely in the nails and metal connectors that hold the deck together. If screws have rusted to the point where they are no longer holding the deck together, a full-scale replacement could be in the cards, as the deck could have substantial structural damage. Like other issues that can reveal themselves during a springtime inspection of the deck, rust necessitates a thorough examination by an experienced decking professional. ‚

Many people do not use their decks during winter, which only underscores the significance of a full deck inspection in spring.

Choosing the best decking material

Deck boards and railings can be made from a diverse array of materials, including traditional hardwood, plastic and composite materials. Here’s a deep look into some of the more popular decking materials so homeowners can make informed decisions when contracting with a decking professional for the build.

Hardwood, softwood or pressure-treated wood

In the not-so-distant past, decks were primarily built using some type of wood. Wood is widely available and fairly cost-effective. However, wood requires frequent upkeep and it can be susceptible to rotting or insect damage. Wood decks also may splinter and deteriorate when exposed to the elements or pool water. Pressuretreated boards are infused with chemicals to help them endure, but that does not make them impervious to wear.

Composite

Composite decking materials are made from a blend of recycled plastic and wood fibers. Since there is so much recycled content, composite decks attract those who are concerned about the environment and sustainability. Composite decking comes in uncapped and capped varieties. The capped version has an extra layer of protective capping made from high-performance polymers, says TimberTech, a decking and outdoor furniture provider. While composite decks may have similar upfront costs to wood, they will require less maintenance over the years, but they must be scrubbed to avoid mildew growth.

Plastic

Decks made of polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene or high density polyethylene (HDPE) are collectively referred to as PVC decks. They are made entirely from environmentally safe plastic. PVC decks are more durable than composite and can last a lifetime. All PVC decks need is occasional cleaning. A potential disadvantage to PVC is it doesn’t always look, sound or feel like wood. Also, complex fastening systems can make the boards move as the temperature changes, resulting in squeaking as people walk on the deck. Generally, PVC is more expensive than wood or composite, but that investment may be worth it for those who never want to worry about deck repair or replacement.

Another type of plastic decking material is made from polystyrene. It is stiff, strong and light, and with the brand Eon, the nonslip surface becomes less slippery when wet, so it may be great around pools.

Aluminum

Aluminum may not be as popular as other decking materials, but it is lighter and stronger than wood, composite, and plastic. Aluminum also is resistant to mold, weather and insects, and it can be recycled. An aluminum deck will last for years, which is why it is one of the more costly decking materials.

Refresh landscaping on a budget

Many homeowners think they have to spend tons of green to get green in their landscape, but that isn’t necessarily so. Homeowners can improve their landscapes without digging themselves into financial holes. These strategies can help anyone save some cash and still end up with attractive gardens and more.

, USE STONES OR GRAVEL FOR A WALKWAY. If commercially-installed pavers or cement walkways are not within your budget, there are some affordable alternatives. Flagstone or individually purchased and spaced pavers and pea gravel can be used to create pathways. Some construction sites even offer free stones when asked. Soften the look with moss or other plants on the perimeter.

, REMOVE SOME LAWN. Lawns can require hours of upkeep that may involve the application of expensive fertilizers and weed-killing products that are not always so eco-friendly. Reduce the size of a lawn by putting in a mixed planting bed of perennials or ornamental grasses, or use landscape fabric and mulch.

, REPURPOSE OLD ITEMS INTO PLANTERS. Old wheelbarrows, barrels, watering cans, and other items can be repurposed into container gardening vessels. Figure out if items marked for the garbage bin can be incorporated into garden features instead.

, INVEST IN PLANTS THAT ARE EASY TO PROPAGATE. Perennials are the gardener’s friend when it comes to saving money. These plants sprout anew each year, and many, such as sedum, catmint, ferns, hostas, and black-eyed Susans, can propagate by division. Figure out the best times of year to divide the plants and start growing them in individual containers before planting the sturdy new shoots in the ground. A single variety of plants grouped together in mass plantings is affordable and easy.

Some handy ideas can help homeowners transform landscapes without spending too much.

, SHOP END-OF-SEASON

SALES. Garden centers may begin to make room for holiday items come the fall. Take advantage of reduced costs on remaining plants and landscape accessories during this time of year. Plants can be covered or allowed to thrive indoors until they can be planted in the spring.

, POOL YOUR RESOURCES.

, LOOK FOR FREE MULCH. Municipal recycling centers may offer residents access to free mulch made from grinding up leaves, branches and other plant debris collected throughout the town. Simply bring a few containers to the recycling center and spread the mulch for an ornamental look or to insulate landscapes over winter and protect against weeds.

Homeowners planning on a big landscaping or revitalization project may want to speak with neighbors to see if they’re interested in doing the same. Contractors guaranteed business from a few homes in the same neighborhood may be willing to negotiate lower prices for the volume of work on things like driveway repaving, deck- or fence-building, or installation of paver patios. ‚

The benefits of energy-efficient homes

Consumer efforts to be more eco-conscious are more and more noticeable. For proof of that, one need look no further than the increase in vehicle charging stations. Such stations are more accessible than ever and illustrate that consumer preference is increasingly leaning toward products that leave as small a carbon footprint as possible.

Another indicator of a growing interest in eco-friendly products is the popularity in energy-efficient homes. In fact, a recent survey from the National Association of Home Builders found that energy-efficient features are among the most sought-after “musthaves” among homebuyers. Among those surveyed, 83% desired Energy Star-rated windows, 81% wanted Energy Star-rated appliances and 80% preferred energy-efficient lighting.

Though eco-conscious sensibilities compel millions of homeowners to make their homes more energyefficient, that’s not the only reason to upgrade your home. The following are a handful of the many benefits of energy-efficient homes.

, SAVE MONEY: Inflation was one of the biggest stories of 2022, as the cost of living rose dramatically in the wake of world events. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, inflation led to an overall 6.5% increase in prices. But that increase was dwarfed by the cost of

electricity, which increased by 14.3% in 2022. Energy-efficient appliances can help homeowners overcome that spike, as the U.S. Department of Energy indicates upgrading to such products can help homeowners reduce their energy costs by as much as 30%.

, IMPROVE RESALE VALUE: As the NAHB survey indicates, modern homebuyers want energy-efficient homes. They’re also willing to pay more for such homes. Research from the mortgage lender Freddie Mac found that homes with energy-efficient ratings sold for nearly 3% more on average than homes without such ratings.

, LIVE HEALTHIER: The benefits of energy-efficient homes aren’t just economic, though health-related benefits certainly produce an economic incentive as well. According to the American Council for an EnergyEfficient Economy, insulation and air sealing protect individuals from heat waves and other ripple effects of climate change. The ACEEE notes that weatherization can improve indoor air quality and comfort, a notable benefit for asthma sufferers and seniors. In fact, the ACEEE estimates that integrating energy efficiency programs in homes could reduce seniors’ risk for falls in their homes, potentially saving $2 billion in fall-related health care costs over the next decade, and improve asthma outcomes, which could reduce health care costs by as much as half a billion dollars. ‚

Energy-efficient products and practices pay numerous dividends, making them a worthy expenditure for any homeowners looking to upgrade their homes.

WE SPECIALIZE IN STANDING SEAM METAL ROOFS