Spring Home Enhancement Guide by Echo Press

HOME enhancement

guide spring 2014

TOP 10 HOME DECOR TRENDS Get your mower ready Create inviting outdoor spaces

Limit weed growth A publication of the Echo Press

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Home Enhancement Top 10 home decor trends for 2014 ............4 Home improvement tips ..............................6 What causes hard water problems?.............7 Fast facts about grass ..................................8 Spring lawn seeding basics..........................9 Organization tips for your busy life..............10 Get your lawn mower ready.......................12 Service directory.........................................13 Homeowner Helpers...................................16 Outdoor spaces for entertaining ................18 Simple ways to limit weed growth ..............20 Lighting sets the stage ...............................21 Tire maintenance.......................................22

Lawn seeding basics

Lighting sets the stage

••••• A publication of Echo Press

320.763.3133 225 7TH AVE. EAST • ALEXANDRIA, MN Jody Hanson, Publisher Tara Bitzan, Special Projects Editor Lowell Anderson, Special Projects Reporter Cover & Layout by Karla Mikkelson, Graphic Coordinator

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April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

10 R top

home decor trends

Lighten up Lighting can make a key difference in a home by setting the atmosphere of a room or helping showcase decor elements.

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Miami-based ASID and IIDA award-winning interior and furniture designer Bea Pila sees natural elements increasingly created into luxurious furnishings. Look for lamps embellished with geodes and natural gems, feather-adorned pillows and sharkskin as a rich table finish. Stone and stone veneers make for an interesting organic interior wall covering, says Debbie Wiener of My Designing Solutions, as do sticks gathered in groups as triptychs or propped up against the wall.

Residential interior designer Gary McBournie recommends happy hues such as turquoise for a kitchen, chartreuse for a dining room and coral for a bedroom. Roger Hazard, New York designer who starred in the Sell This House, agrees that color palettes will embrace a variety of bold, punchy accent colors and notes a seismic shift in neutrals from the “”brown fatigue” of browns and beiges to bright gallery whites and truly neutral grays. Purples can be paired with accents of copper and well-worn leather in a masculine den; layered with gold, gray and white for an elegant bedroom; or highlighted against subway tile and chrome fixtures for a statement master bathroom.

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It’s only natural

A kaleidoscope of color

UPGRADE in STYLE

enew. Rejuvenate. Reinvigorate. The same objectives people have when making personal resolutions can easily be applied to their homes. There’s no better time to give a home a fresh look, whether it’s incorporating a new color palette, adding accessories, repurposing furniture or putting something interesting on the walls.

LED bulbs deliver the same warm glow as traditional incandescents, but use 84 percent less energy and last up to 20 years, according to Maxwell Ryan, founder and CEO of Apartment Therapy. Interior design expert and InStyleModern.com executive Maria Samuels suggests multi-tiered chandeliers and other ornamental fixtures using LED lights to give a modern twist instead of traditional artificial illumination.

Recycle Repurpose Reuse

The furniture forecast

Pila notes that 60s-inspired acrylic furnishings can be timeless when designed into a classic silhouette, with the pureness of the Try old salvaged acrylic’s clearness creating a striking effect. Washington, D.C. depieces with signer Darlene Molnar predicts that velvet sofas will be a top trend architectural in 2014, with jewel colors or gray bringing a soft elegance to rooms interest. after years of sharp clean lines. And furniture designer Clint Parker notes that earth-friendly, sustainable eco-furniture is gaining steam, with new composites and fabrics such as hemp and sorghum making the concept more accessible.

Every wall has a story Todd Imholte, president of Murals Your Way, predicts that wall murals will be even more popular, as more homeowners and business owners embrace this unique, distinctive way to transform any room. Creating a personal mural from a photograph makes your space truly unique.

What’s old is new again

The simple life Internationally recognized artist and award-winning Austin designer Pablo Solomon sees a continuation of uncluttered, simple, practical, multifunctional and renewable designs. He recommends adopting the mantra “less is more” to focus on quality, not quantity, when it comes to art, rugs and furnishings. Tie interior design with outside landscape views to evoke a feeling of openness and flow from the inside out.

Los Angeles-based Linda Brettler, AIA, suggests finding creative ways to repurpose, recycle and reuse by relocating pieces from other rooms in the house or seeking out older, better-made items from architectural salvage sites. Salvaged or antique tiles can give an authentic patina to a historic home, and Brettler recommends mixing tile and stone so the look isn’t so intense. (BPT)

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April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

Home Improvement Tips learned the hard way pring is the season for home improvement projects, and soon those weekend warriors will be visiting home supply stores to buy everything from paint to plywood. Many a novice DIYer has learned the ups and downs of home improvement through trial and error. Following are a handful of lessons first-timers can heed before beginning their maiden voyages into the world of DIY home improvements.

Enlist a helper.

Measure twice, cut once.

Painting can be time-consuming, so many people seek shortcuts such as not priming. Priming helps cover existing paint and prevent bleed-through of stains or darker hues. Failure to do this could mean having to paint coat after coat, which can become costly and take up significant time.

Perhaps this is the best-known mantra of home improvement, yet many still ignore it. Whether you’re anxious to get started or simply cannot convert metric to standard formula, you must take the time to measure twice before cutting. Learning you’re a hair too short later will be frustrating and timeconsuming and often necessitates another run for more materials.

Use the right tools.

Lighten the load.

Expect the unexpected.

You run the risk of injury, to yourself and your belongings, if you attempt to move heavy items on your own. Empty or remove drawers from desks and dressers before moving them. Rely on sliding pads when moving furniture so items can be slid instead of lifted. Ask for help to move heavy items.

Having a partner help with the work is the most efficient way to tackle a project. This person can assist with heavy lifting, moving things, holding the ladder or simply passing tools your way. He or she can also make runs to the home center for more supplies.

Prime before painting.

The right tools make work safer and easier. Improvising or using the wrong tools can cost you time and increase your risk of injury.

Turn electricity off. When working with electricity, shut down the power on the breaker box. A live wire can provide a minor shock or lead to injury. You never know what you might uncover when you embark on repairs or remodels. Removal of drywall may uncover insect damage or indications of water infiltration. One project can run into another. Always leave breathing room in your budget and schedule. (Metro)

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WHAT CAUSES

HARD WATER PROBLEMS Many people probably don’t realize that there is such a thing as “hard” water or “soft” water. Until you experience some problems with your water you rarely give it a second thought, but there are characteristics to water that make it as varied as the colors in a rainbow. In nature, water never exists as just pure H2O. There are always other substances dissolved in it known as mineral salts. Healthy, balanced water needs to have mineral salts in it to sustain life. However, it’s

the percentages of those mineral salts that make water either “hard” or “soft.” Basically, high amounts of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, classify water as hard. A large amount of iron, manganese, sodium and other dissolved compounds such as bicarbonates and sulphates can often be found in hard water also. Contact your local water dealer to have your water tested and to fix hard water problems.

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April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

Fast facts about

GRASS lush, green lawn is coveted by many homeowners. Not only can a beautiful landscape make a home more welcoming, but it also increases the resale value of a property. Frequent watering, proper fertilization, pest management, and mowing are all essential components of lawn maintenance. But there is more to those beautiful blades of grass than just aesthetic appeal. Following are some interesting facts about grass that even the most devoted lawn enthusiasts might be surprised to learn: • Grass is defined as any plant of the family Gramineae, a group of vascular plants that grow across the globe. • There are as many as 10,000 varieties of grass in the world, from grass to rice to wheat to bamboo.

• Many grasses are annual or perennial herbs with fibrous roots and rhizomes. • Grass can withstand many different climates and has been discovered at the North Pole and at the equator. • Twenty percent of Earth’s vegetation is comprised of grass. • Grasses have been transformed into paper and home decor items. Bamboo, a type of grass, is frequently used for flooring because it is durable and sustainable. • Water makes up about 80 percent of grass and 90 percent of grass clippings. • A typical lawn will have about six grass plants per square inch. Some lawns may have millions of grass plants. • The average lawn releases enough oxygen to sustain four families of four. (Metro)

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SPRING

LAWN SEEDING BASICS

pring has sprung, and it’s not too late to seed your lawn! While autumn is a better time to over-seed a lawn for new growth, satisfactory results still can be had if done early enough in the spring. Grass needs ample time to establish roots and grow strong before summer heat takes a toll. Many types need 6-12 weeks of ideal temperatures and conditions to germinate and produce a sturdy grass. Seeding can be done to rejuvenate an existing lawn and fill in bare spots. It also can be done to start a lawn from scratch. The following tips can help make seeding projects more successful.

Rake the lawn to remove thatch and fallen leaves left from autumn and winter. Raking enables you to inspect the lawn for bare patches or matting of grass that may be indicative of a fungus or other problem. Trim the lawn short, especially if it was left long at the end of last season. This will help seed penetrate the blades of grass and get to the soil beneath.

High-traffic lawns may need aeration to counteract compacted soil. Moss is often an indication of compaction. Aeration will help, as it pokes holes into the soil to enable oxygenation that keeps new grass robust and promotes growth. Lawn aerators can be rented from many garden centers. Spread a mixture of topsoil and compost over the top of the lawn. This will add nutrients through organic matter to the lawn and create a good base for the new seed to take root. It will also help strengthen existing grass and promote long-term health. Test a sample of the soil to check the pH. Grass prefers a neutral pH, but some soil tends to lean toward the acidic side, especially if you see moss. Knowing the pH will help determine how much lime per square foot you need to adjust it. Liming is a corrective measure and does not need to be used on a healthy, thriving lawn. Invest in a spreader to seed the lawn. The spreader will have settings that enable you to calibrate the rate of seed dispersion for your walking speed. Drop spreaders require you to apply seed in rows with no

overlap. Broadcast spreaders will cast seed widely and may need some overlap to guarantee complete coverage. Spread another thin layer of compost mix over the seed and water thoroughly. The compost will help keep moisture in while the seeds germinate. Aim for lawn watering two to three times a day. The seed should be barely dry between watering. After seeds have germinated and established, you can reduce frequency of watering but increase depth to keep roots strong. Avoid foot traffic on a newly seeded lawn until the grass is well established. (Metro)

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April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

organization tips

for your busy life

f you run a small business or manage your family’s household, you know that time is a precious commodity, one that you never seem to have enough of. Despite your best efforts, you can’t create time. So how do you save it and make yourself more efficient? Organization is the key. Professional organizer and author Barbara Reich offers these tips to help you organize your home or business:

Start small. If your home or office is completely disorganized, don’t try to accomplish everything at once. Start with a single project or location and work forward, building on your successes.

1 2

Label. Once you’ve purged your possessions and streamlined the storage space, use an electronic label maker to label the shelves, drawers, boxes, and bins; it’s a great way to maintain the organization you’re worked so hard to create.

Store things where you use them. If you charge your phone by your bed, then that’s where the charger belongs. The printer paper and ink refills should be stored next to the printer and the glasses in the kitchen should be stored next to the refrigerator. You’ll be most likely to stay organized when convenience dictates the designated storage spaces in your home or office.

Group similar things together. It’s the only way you’ll know how much of something you have and when you’ll need more. Having multiple storage locations is a recipe for frustration and breeds a chaotic environment.

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Use one kind of storage container. Having uniform hangers, folders, bins and boxes eliminates the visual noise. You’ll feel calmer when you can view your possessions without focusing on a mess of mismatched containers.

Put things back where they belong. Whether you’re talking about toys or tumblers, return them to their rightful place when you’re finished using them. It takes a few minutes a day to stay organized; eliminating clutter build up is the key.

Use a simple filing system. Even in this digital age, there is still plenty of paper traveling about. If you find yourself inundated with paper clutter, a simple filing system will ease the mess. Make sure to keep your filing process as easy as possible. You will be less likely to adhere to a complicated system.

Create a landing zone. Daily-use items such as keys, cell phones and wallets are easily lost. Set a basket or tray near your doorway for an easy location to drop these items when you come in the door. When you need them, you’ll know where to find them.

April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

Eight tips to get your

For all your heating & cooling needs...

LAWN MOWER READY

Use these tips to rev up your engine and get your mower ready for spring: Before operating your mower, read the manual to ensure safe and proper use of the equipment. Be sure you understand and follow instructions and are familiar with all controls and functions. Keep your manual handy for future reference.

engine with the oil amount and type indicated in your manual. Install a new spark plug. Plugs are inexpensive and should be replaced once a season. Over time, they can rust and corrode and won’t spark. Always remove the spark plug wire before servicing. When removing, check the spark plug cable for signs of damage or rust. Do not clean or reuse old plugs.

Check your fuel. Fuel can go bad in as little as 30 days; bad fuel can result in a sputtering engine or prevent the mower from turning over. If the fuel has a strange odor or is thick and viscous, drain it and fill with fresh fuel. Check your manual for the right fuel type for your mower, as using improper fuel can damage your equipment.

Greg Carlson Owner

320.760.0928 320.763.3954 001063454r1

Lubricate the throttle and moving parts. Grease and oil can harden while your mower sits over winter. To loosen, apply a light lubricant on the narrow spring of the throttle. For a mower with adjustable heights, lubricate the lever and other moving parts.

Clean the air filter. It shields the engine from dirt and can clog with oil and debris. This prevents oxygen from entering the engine, resulting in sputters. Replace filter every season. Soak washable foam filters in warm, soapy water; squeeze dry.

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12 April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

Check the oil level before using your mower. Change the oil filter and add new oil after using your mower five to eight hours. Running a motor on low oil can lead to low compression and can burn out the engine. Overfilling can damage the seals. In this case, remove the oil plug, drain old oil and refill

Inspect blades. A dull blade will cause grass tips to brown; weakened grass blades are prone to pests and disease. If blades are bent or dull, replace to deliver a clean cut, optimum performance. Replace parts with original manufacturer pieces made for your machine.

Replace the belt or battery. Clean debris, leaves or grass from under deck to prevent rust and corrosion. For a self-propelled unit it the belt is worn or cracking, replace. For one with an electric start, make sure the battery didn’t drain over winter. Check your manual for battery charging or replacing instructions

Service Directory Spring 2014 APPLIANCES & REPAIR APPLIANCES, NEW • Villard Implement Co. Tank’s Appliance 671 Lincoln, Villard, 1-888-554-3111 APPLIANCES, USED • Villard Implement Co. Tank’s Appliance 671 Lincoln, Villard, 1-888-554-3111

ATV SALES & SERVICE CAN-AM • Ollie’s Service 1213 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-4455 www.olliesservice.com KAWASAKI • Paul’s Small Engine Sales & Service 1510 N. Nokomis St. Alexandria • 320-762-5167 www.paulssmallengine.com 3405 Dakota St. • 320-219-7846 YAMAHA • Evansville Sports & Lawn 201 Main St., Evansville, MN 218-948-2268, 320-834-4626

CABINETS CABINETRY • New Millenium Custom Cabinets Alexandria • 320-886-5570 www.nmdinc.net • Swedberg Wood Products 1420 Co. Rd. 82, Alexandria 320-762-0738 • 888-370-3612 www.swedbergwood.com CABINET REFACING • New Millenium Custom Cabinets Alexandria • 320-886-5570 www.nmdinc.net • Swedberg Wood Products 1420 Co. Rd. 82, Alexandria 320-762-0738 • 888-370-3612 www.swedbergwood.com CUSTOM COUNTERTOPS & SOLID SURFACES • New Millenium Custom Cabinets Alexandria • 320-886-5570 www.nmdinc.net • Swedberg Wood Products 1420 Co. Rd. 82, Alexandria 320-762-0738 • 888-370-3612 www.swedbergwood.com

GRANITE COUNTERTOPS • New Millenium Custom Cabinets Alexandria • 320-886-5570 www.nmdinc.net • Swedberg Wood Products 1420 Co. Rd. 82, Alexandria 320-762-0738 • 888-370-3612 www.swedbergwood.com KITCHEN / BATH • New Millenium Custom Cabinets Alexandria • 320-886-5570 www.nmdinc.net • Swedberg Wood Products 1420 Co. Rd. 82, Alexandria 320-762-0738 • 888-370-3612 www.swedbergwood.com

CAR CARE TIRES SALES & SERVICE • Cenex Car Care Center 1705 S. Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-6557 • 800-862-8936 TUNE-UPS/OIL CHANGES • Cenex Car Care Center 1705 S. Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-6557 • 800-862-8936

CLEANING AIR DUCT CLEANING • Dust Busters Furnace & Duct Cleaning, Inc. 1217 Van Dyke Rd., Alexandria, • 320-763-6658 dustbustersusa.com Craig & Peg McMillan, owners CARPET & FLOOR CLEANING • Service Master Clean 203 Lake St., Alexandria 320-763-5551 COMMERCIAL EXHAUST HOOD CLEANING • Wash It! 320-886-2927 Alexandria www.washitllc.com COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL CARPET & HARDWOOD FLOORS • Service Master Clean 203 Lake St., Alexandria 320-763-5551 COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL CLEANING • Service Master Clean 203 Lake St., Alexandria 320-763-5551 CONCRETE SLAB CLEANING • Fredin’s House and Cabin Service, LLC, Lic #BC647734 Alexandria • 320-815-2293 • Wash It! 320-886-2927 Alexandria www.washitllc.com

DECK WASH & STAIN • Fredin’s House and Cabin Service, LLC, Lic #BC647734 Alexandria • 320-815-2293 • Wash It! 320-886-2927 • Alexandria www.washitllc.com DISASTER RESTORATION • Service Master Clean 203 Lake St., Alexandria 320-763-5551 FIRE & SMOKE RESTORATION • Service Master Clean 203 Lake St., Alexandria 320-763-5551 FIREPLACE & CHIMNEY CLEANING • Dust Busters Furnace & Duct Cleaning, Inc. 1217 Van Dyke Rd., Alexandria 320-763-6658 Craig & Peg McMillan, owners FURNACE DUCT CLEANING • Dust Busters Furnace & Duct Cleaning, Inc. 1217 Van Dyke Rd., Alexandria 320-763-6658 Craig & Peg McMillan, owners HOUSEWIDE CLEANING • Service Master Clean 203 Lake St., Alexandria 320-763-5551 HOUSE WASHING • Wash It! 320-886-2927 • Alexandria www.washitllc.com MOLD REMEDIATION • Service Master Clean 203 Lake St., Alexandria 320-763-5551 SEWER & WATER CLEANUP • Service Master Clean 203 Lake St., Alexandria 320-763-5551 UPHOLSTERY CLEANING • Service Master Clean 203 Lake St., Alexandria, MN 320-763-5551

CONSTRUCTION/ REMODELING CONTRACTORS • Fredin’s House and Cabin Service, LLC, Lic #BC647734 Alexandria • 320-815-2293 DECKS, PATIOS & VINYL RAILING • Fredin’s House & Cabin Service, LLC, Lic #BC647734 Alexandria • 320-815-2293 MILLWORK & FINISHING • New Millenium Custom Cabinets Alexandria • 320-886-5570 www.nmdinc.net

• Swedberg Wood Products 1420 Co. Rd. 82, Alexandria 320-762-0738 • 888-370-3612 www.swedbergwood.com REMODELING • Fredin’s House & Cabin Service, LLC, Lic #BC647734 Alexandria • 320-815-2293 STEEL BUILDINGS • Fredin’s House & Cabin Service, LLC, Lic #BC647734 Alexandria • 320-815-2293

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS • Rudy’s Electric 614 Nokomis St. 320-763-6216

ELECTRONICS ANTENNAS & SATELLITES SALES & SERVICE • Alex-Tronics 608 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-4250 HOME ELECTRONICS • Alex-Tronics 608 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-4250 HOME SECURITY, FIRE & CAMERA SYSTEMS • Alex-Tronics 608 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-4250 • Heartland Security 888-264-3680 HOME THEATER SYSTEMS • Alex-Tronics 608 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-4250 SOUND SYSTEMS • Alex-Tronics 608 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-4250 TV SALES • Alex-Tronics 608 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-4250 TV REPAIR & SERVICE • Alex-Tronics 608 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-4250

FARM EQUIPMENT SALES, SERVICE & PARTS • Parkers Prairie Implement Inc. 416 N. Otter Ave. Parkers Prairie 218-338-6156 • Villard Implement Co. and Tanks Appliance 671 Lincoln, Villard 1-888-554-3111 001051961r1

April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

Service Directory GARAGE DOORS & OPENERS FIREPLACES

• Thompson Heating & Air Conditioning 1103 No. Nokomis NE, Alexandria • 320-763-6634 www.thompsonheating.com

FLOORING AREA RUGS • Alex Carpet One Floor & Home 3809 Hwy 29 S, Alexandria 320-762-0292 CARPET • Alex Carpet One Floor & Home 3809 Hwy 29 S, Alexandria 320-762-0292 • Arnquist Carpets Plus Color Tile 805 1st Ave. E. Alexandria • 320-763-8050 CARPET REMNANTS • Alex Carpet One Floor & Home 3809 Hwy 29 S, Alexandria 320-762-0292 CERAMIC & QUARRY TILE • Alex Carpet One Floor & Home 3809 Hwy 29 S, Alexandria 320-762-0292 • Arnquist Carpets Plus Color Tile 805 1st Ave. E. Alexandria • 320-763-8050 FLOORING INSTALLATION • Alex Carpet One Floor & Home 3809 Hwy 29 S, Alexandria 320-762-0292 • Arnquist Carpets Plus Color Tile 805 1st Ave. E. Alexandria • 320-763-8050 LAMINATE FLOORING • Alex Carpet One Floor & Home 3809 Hwy 29 S, Alexandria 320-762-0292 • Arnquist Carpets Plus Color Tile 805 1st Ave. E. Alexandria • 320-763-8050 TILE FLOORING • Arnquist Carpets Plus Color Tile 805 1st Ave. E. Alexandria • 320-763-8050 VINYL FLOORING • Alex Carpet One Floor & Home 3809 Hwy 29 S, Alexandria 320-762-0292 • Arnquist Carpets Plus Color Tile 805 1st Ave. E. Alexandria • 320-763-8050 WOOD FLOORING • Alex Carpet One Floor & Home 3809 Hwy 29 S, Alexandria 320-762-0292 • Arnquist Carpets Plus Color Tile 805 1st Ave. E. Alexandria • 320-763-8050

COMMERCIAL OVERHEAD DOOR SALES & SERVICE • Ace Door Company Alexandria • 320-762-1484 • Viking Garage Door Company 706 McKay Ave. S., Alexandria 320-762-2528 www.vikinggaragedoor.com OPENERS SALES & SERVICE • Ace Door Company Alexandria • 320-762-1484 • Viking Garage Door Company 706 McKay Ave. S., Alexandria 320-762-2528 www.vikinggaragedoor.com OVERHEAD INSTALLATION • Ace Door Company Alexandria • 320-762-1484 • Viking Garage Door Company 706 McKay Ave. S., Alexandria 320-762-2528 www.vikinggaragedoor.com OVERHEAD SALES & SERVICE • Ace Door Company Alexandria • 320-762-1484 • Viking Garage Door Company 706 McKay Ave. S., Alexandria 320-762-2528 www.vikinggaragedoor.com

HARDWARE

• Ace Hardware 406 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-5200

HUMIDIFIERS

• Thompson Heating & Air Conditioning, 1103 N. Nokomis NE Alexandria • 320-763-6634 www.thompsonheating.com

INTERIOR DESIGN BLINDS & SHADES • Alex Carpet One Floor & Home 3809 Hwy 29 S, Alexandria 320-762-0292 • Cowing Robards Decorating Center / Blind Factory 1010 N. Nokomis, Alexandria 320-763-3380 DECORATING CONSULTANTS • Alex Carpet One Floor & Home 3809 Hwy 29 S, Alexandria 320-762-0292 • Cowing Robards Decorating Center / Blind Factory 1010 N. Nokomis, Alexandria 320-763-3380 IN-HOUSE DESIGN & FABRICATION • Cowing Robards Decorating Center / Blind Factory 1010 N. Nokomis, Alexandria 320-763-3380

WINDOW TREATMENTS, DRAPERIES & VALANCES • Cowing Robards Decorating Center / Blind Factory 1010 N. Nokomis, Alexandria 320-763-3380

IRRIGATION

• Alex Irrigation & Landscaping 320-852-7595 • 800-620-0436

LAWN & GARDEN COBBLESTONE PATIOS • Alex Irrigation & Landscaping 320-852-7595 • 800-620-0436 LANDSCAPE LIGHTING • Alex Irrigation & Landscaping 320-852-7595 • 800-620-0436 LANDSCAPING & INSTALLATION • Hemming Lawn Care Alexandria • 320-766-7716 Commercial & Residential LANDSCAPING PRODUCTS • Alex Brick & Stone 514 22nd Ave. W, Alexandria 320-762-0742 LAWN/GARDEN SALES, SERVICE AND PARTS • Parkers Prairie Implement Inc. 416 N. Otter Ave. Parkers Prairie 218-338-6156 • Villard Implement Co. and Tanks Appliance 671 Lincoln, Villard 1-888-554-3111 LAWN & GARDEN SUPPLIES • Ace Hardware 406 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-5200 LAWNMOWER SALES & SERVICE • Paul’s Small Engine Sales & Service 1510 N. Nokomis St. Alexandria • 320-762-5167 3405 Dakota St. • 320-219-7846 • Ollie’s Service 1213 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-4455 www.olliesservice.com • Evansville Sports & Lawn 201 Main St., Evansville, MN 218-948-2268, 320-834-4626 LAWN SEEDING & RENOVATION • Alex Irrigation & Landscaping 320-852-7595 • 800-620-0436 PONDS • Alex Irrigation & Landscaping 320-852-7595 • 800-620-0436 RETAINING WALLS • Alex Irrigation & Landscaping 320-852-7595 • 800-620-0436 RIP-RAP • Alex Irrigation & Landscaping 320-852-7595 • 800-620-0436

SIDEWALKS & DRIVEWAYS • Alex Irrigation & Landscaping 320-852-7595 • 800-620-0436 SNOWBLOWERS SALES & SERVICE • Ollie’s Service 1213 Broadway Alexandria • 320-763-4455 www.olliesservice.com • Paul’s Small Engine Sales & Service 1510 N. Nokomis St. Alexandria • 320-762-5167 STIHL CHAINSAWS • Paul’s Small Engine Sales & Service 1510 N. Nokomis St. Alexandria • 320-762-5167 3405 Dakota St. • 320-219-7846 UNDERGROUND SPRINKLER SYSTEMS • Alex Irrigation & Landscaping 320-852-7595 • 800-620-0436

OUTBOARD MARINE REPAIR

• Evansville Sports & Lawn 201 Main St., Evansville 218-948-2268, 320-834-4626

OUTDOOR WOOD BURNING FURNACES (STAINLESS STEEL) • Mike’s Heating Guaranteed Lowest Prices Minnesota 1-800-446-4043 www.mikesheating.com

PAINTING PAINTING, EXTERIOR • Fredin’s House & Cabin Service, LLC Alexandria • 320-815-2293 Lic # BC647734 PAINTING, INTERIOR • Fredin’s House & Cabin Service, LLC Alexandria • 320-815-2293 Lic # BC647734 PAINT SUPPLIES • Ace Hardware 406 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-5200

PLUMBING, HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING AIR CONDITIONING • Thompson Heating & Air Conditioning 1103 No. Nokomis NE, Alexandria • 320-763-6634 www.thompsonheating.com

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14 April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

AIR EXCHANGE • Thompson Heating & Air Conditioning 1103 No. Nokomis NE, Alexandria • 320-763-6634 www.thompsonheating.com FURNACES • Thompson Heating & Air Conditioning 1103 No. Nokomis NE, Alexandria • 320-763-6634 www.thompsonheating.com HEATING • Mike’s Heating Guaranteed Lowest Prices Minnesota 1-800-446-4043 www.mikesheating.com HEATING & SHEET METAL • Thompson Heating & Air Conditioning 1103 No. Nokomis NE, Alexandria • 320-763-6634 www.thompsonheating.com HEATING, IN-FLOOR RADIANT • Aquarius-84 Inc. 214 - 6th Ave. E., Alexandria 320-763-3636 Lic. #058116PM • Excel Plumbing/Infloor Heating LLC 320-834-6234 • 320-760-5818 • Mike’s Heating Guaranteed Lowest Prices Minnesota 1-800-446-4043 www.mikesheating.com HOT WATER HEATING • Aquarius-84 Inc. 214 - 6th Ave. E., Alexandria 320-763-3636 Lic. #058116PM PLUMBING • Aquarius-84 Inc. 214 - 6th Ave. E., Alexandria 320-763-3636 Lic. #058116PM PLUMBING SUPPLIES • Ace Hardware 406 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-5200 PROPANE GAS SALES & SERVICE • Cenex Car Care Center 1705 S. Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-6557 • 800-862-8936 WATER HEATERS • Runestone Electric Assoc. 6875 Co. Rd. 28 SW, Alexandria 320-762-1121 WATER SOFTENERS • Aquarius-84 Inc. 214 - 6th Ave. E., Alexandria 320-763-3636 Lic. #058116PM • Eco Water 1811 S. Nokomis St., Alexandria 320-763-6229 www.ecowatermn.com WATER TREATMENT • Weisel Well Alexandria, MN • 320-763-6600 • Eco Water 1811 S. Nokomis St., Alexandria 320-763-6229 www.ecowatermn.com

QUILTING

• Community Vacuum & Sewing Center 1321 Broadway, Alexandria 320-762-1412

REAL ESTATE ABSTRACTING • Alexandria Title Co. 1804 S. Broadway, Suite 140 Alexandria 320-763-6858 • Douglas County Abstract 117 - 7th Ave. E., Alexandria 320-763-3426 • dcabstract.com • Integrity Title 220 22nd Ave. E., Suite 107, Alexandria • 320-763-3311 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE • Hemming Lawn Care Alexandria • 320-766-7716 Commercial & Residential REAL ESTATE CLOSINGS • Alexandria Title Co. 1804 S. Broadway, Suite 140 Alexandria, MN 320-763-6858 • Douglas County Abstract 117 - 7th Ave. E., Alexandria 320-763-3426 • dcabstract.com • Integrity Title 220 22nd Ave. E, Suite 107 Alexandria • 320-763-3311 TITLE INSURANCE • Alexandria Title Co. 1804 S. Broadway, Suite 140 Alexandria, 320-763-6858 • Douglas County Abstract 117 - 7th Ave. E., Alexandria 320-763-3426 dcabstract.com • Integrity Title 220 22nd Ave. E., Suite 107, Alexandria • 320-763-3311

RECREATION

RUBBISH DISPOSAL COMMERCIAL, RESIDENTIAL, INDUSTRIAL PICK-UP • Alex Rubbish & Recycling Inc. 1301 36th Ave, Industrial Park Alexandria • 320-763-4712 DISPOSAL SITE • Alex Rubbish & Recycling Inc. 1301 36th Ave, Industrial Park Alexandria • 320-763-4712 RECYCLING PICK-UP • Alex Rubbish & Recycling Inc. 1301 36th Ave, Industrial Park Alexandria • 320-763-4712 • West Central Sanitation Hwy. 29 S, Alexandria 800-246-7630 wcsanitation.com RECYCLING SITE • Alex Rubbish & Recycling Inc. 1301 36th Ave, Industrial Park Alexandria • 320-763-4712 RUBBISH REMOVAL (DUMPSTERS) • Alex Rubbish & Recycling Inc. 1301 36th Ave, Industrial Park Alexandria • 320-763-4712 • West Central Sanitation Hwy. 29 S, Alexandria 800-246-7630 wcsanitation.com RUBBISH REMOVAL (DEMOLITION) • Alex Rubbish & Recycling Inc. 1301 36th Ave, Industrial Park Alexandria • 320-763-4712 • West Central Sanitation Hwy. 29 S, Alexandria 800-246-7630 wcsanitation.com RUBBISH TRANSFER STATION • Alex Rubbish & Recycling Inc. 1301 36th Ave, Industrial Park Alexandria • 320-763-4712

BOAT STORAGE • Fredin’s House & Cabin Service, LLC Alexandria • 320-815-2293 Lic # BC647734 ICE CASTLE FISH HOUSES • Paul’s Small Engine Sales & Service 1510 N. Nokomis St., Alexandria 320-762-5167 KAWASAKI MOTORCYCLES/ATVs • Paul’s Small Engine Sales & Service 1510 N. Nokomis St., Alexandria • 320-762-5167 3405 Dakota St. • 320-219-7846 YAMAHA MOTORCYCLES/ATVs • Evansville Sports & Lawn 201 Main St., Evansville 218-948-2268, 320-834-4626

SCREEN PRINTING & EMBROIDERY

RENTALS

• Evansville Sports & Lawn 201 Main St., Evansville, MN 218-948-2268, 320-834-4626 • Ollie’s Service 1213 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-4455 www.olliesservice.com

• Paul’s Small Engine Sales & Service 1510 N. Nokomis St. Alexandria • 320-762-5167 3405 Dakota St. • 320-219-7846

• Cowing Robards Sports 514 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-4333

SEWING MACHINE SALES & SERVICE

• Community Vacuum & Sewing Center 1321 Broadway, Alexandria 320-762-1412

SNOW REMOVAL

• Hemming Lawn Care Alexandria • 320-766-7716 Commercial & Residential

SNOWMOBILE SALES & SERVICE

• Paul’s Small Engine Sales & Service 1510 N. Nokomis St., Alexandria • 320-762-5167 3405 Dakota St. • 320-219-7846

SPORTING EQUIPMENT & APPAREL • Cowing Robards Sports 512 Broadway, Alexandria 320-762-1323

TOOLS & BUILDING SUPPLIES CHAINSAW REPAIR & SALES • Evansville Sports & Lawn 201 Main St., Evansville 218-948-2268, 320-834-4626 • Paul’s Small Engine Sales & Service 1510 N. Nokomis St., Alexandria • 320-762-5167 3405 Dakota St. • 320-219-7846 www.paulssmallengine.com TOOLS • Ace Hardware 406 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-5200

TRAILERS

• Paul’s Small Engine Sales & Service 1510 N. Nokomis St. Alexandria • 320-762-5167 3405 Dakota St. • 320-219-7846 • Pro-Tainer Trailer Sales 1301 36th Avenue East, Alexandria 320-763-7550

TROPHIES & AWARDS • Cowing Robards Sports 512 Broadway, Alexandria 320-762-1323

VACUUM SYSTEMS VACUUM REPAIRS • Community Vacuum & Sewing Center 1321 Broadway Alexandria • 320-762-1412 VACUUM SALES • Community Vacuum & Sewing Center 1321 Broadway Alexandria • 320-762-1412

WATER DELIVERY SERVICE

• Eco Water 1811 S. Nokomis St., Alexandria 320-763-6229 www.ecowatermn.com

WELL DRILLING & SERVICE • Weisel Well Alexandria • 320-763-6600

001051971r1

April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

HOMEOWNER HELPERS INSIDE & OUT

ARNQUIST

COMMUNITY VACUUM & SEWING CENTER 1321 Broadway • Alexandria, MN

AMERIC A’S FLOOR S ORE 805 1st Ave. E. • Alexandria, MN •T320-7 63-80

320-762-1412 • 320-762-0718 FACTORY AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR:

(Former Bike & Fitness Co. building)

Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm; Sat. 10am-4pm

Supplies & Service. for most brands

• Lindhaus • Riccar • Miele • baby lock • Pfaff • Koala • Horn

or by appt.

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•Farm & Land Sales • Conventional Listings • Live Auctions • Sealed Bids • Land Management Dale Zaczkowski, Agent 320-248-2146 • Sauk Centre, MN www.HughesRealEstate.net

Morical Bros., Inc. - Gravel Products -

320-763-6216 • 614 Nokomis St • Alexandria Residential/Commercial Cleaning Service

• Electric Heat Systems • Farm • Residential • Commercial & Industrial Wiring

20977 Co. Rd. 56 NW • Evansville • 320-834-2917

• Brick • Stone • Fireplaces • Landscape Produc

and more! A publication of the Echo Press 225 7th Ave. E. Alexandria Chiczmag.areavoices.com | 320.763.3133

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Remodeling • Decks • Painting • Landscaping Tree Trimming • Home Monitoring • Boat Storage Wayne Fredin • 320-815-2293 • 11329 350th Ave • Farwell W wayne@runestone.net • Insured • Lic. #20631831 • References Available

DOWNTOWN ALEXANDRIA 406 Broadway 320-763-5200

More Floors. More Choices. 2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU!

LONG PRAIRIE 820 Commerce Rd. Hwy 71 S 320-732-2185

702 1/2 Co. Rd. 22 NW Alexandria, MN Don Klimek, Owner/Operator

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• Well Drilling/Softeners Sales & Service • Well Abandonment • 24 HOUR SERVICE

4250

is all it takes to make this spot YOURS! Call the Echo Press at 763-3133 for details 001051944r1

3809 Hwy. 29 S. • Alexandria, MN 320-762-0292

1010 North Nokomis, Alexandria, MN 56308

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Mar/Apr M ar/Ap /A r 2014 200144

Recipes, workout tips, decorating ideas,crafts, fashion and beauty tips, healthy advice, puzzles

Magazin e for FUN

Todd Morical 320-834-2683 Cell: 320-760-2610

ts • Masonry Supplies & Tools

514 22nd Ave W • Alexandria

Andy Mounsdon 320-808-8044; Rod Mounsdon 320-760-3939

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Alexandria | 320-763-5551 Morris | 320-589-2334

Producers of: Washed Sand & Buckshot Rock Landscape Rock Drain Field Rock Del ive ry Rip-Rap & Boulders or you Class 5 Gravel pic k up. Black Dirt

16 April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

HOMEOWNER HELPERS INSIDE & OUT APR.MAY2014

IDE REAL ESTATE GU

APRIL/MAY ! On Newsstands Now

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320.834.6234 or 320.760.58

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Rare find. 127’ of level Lake Carlos shoreline. Gourmet kitchen, Silestone quartz countertops, 30x40 man cave/shop w/heat, AC. $835,000. Call Todd Hocum at ERA Viking Realty 320-760-0715

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Access to Lake Vermont

4+BR, Lake Vermont deeded access. 3+ garage and full finished basement for $257,900. Gloria Iverson. 320-491-1182 GloriaIverson@EdinaRealty.co m

Lake Geneva 5BR

5BR, 3BA walkout with vaulted ceiling, gas FP, maple cabinetry and granite countertops on 1.8 acres. Wonderful lake views. $780,000. Sheryl Bakewell 320-760-5616 www.sherylbakewell.com

An Echo Press publication • Alexandria, MN

WALLY TISCHER

320-760-4513

Home Inspection, New Construction Inspection, Commercial Real Estate, Inspection, Water Testing, Property Securement, Radon testing, Moisture Detectio n, Energy Audits, Thermal Imaging, Construction Consulting, Project Manage ment

WWW.TISCHERHOMEINSPECTION.COM

001051956r1

Ron Wagner (Owner) Ryan Wagner

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Over 95 Employees + Over 35 Years Of Serving Central/West Central Minnesota = Long Term Relationships For Today and Tomorrow

001061449r1

April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

CREATING

OUTDOOR SPACES for ENTERTAINING rom barbecues and games of bocce to parties and candlelit dinners, your outdoor space can be a hub for entertaining friends and family. “Try to create a living room for your outdoor space,” says Kate Anthony, owner of Kate and Company Design Studio and interior design instructor at The Art Institute of California, San Diego. People spend a lot of time on their indoor living room spaces, and she recommends extending the interior home out to your exterior. Whether you have a small patio or sprawling backyard, interior design experts from The Art Institutes system of schools provide six simple tips for making the great outdoors a great place to eat, play and entertain.

Focal points A focal point brings everyone together, and can include furniture, a fountain, a fireplace, or any piece that will provide a “wow” factor. An outdoor rug can serve as a focal point and help define an area, and a fire pit makes a great place for guests to gather.

Seating groups Define the space for the type of entertaining you need. Determine the size of your space, the number of people you will typically be entertaining and whether you will use the space for eating, drinking and socializing, or playing games. In a larger space, mix dining, hanging out and garden spaces to provide guests with more areas to enjoy. For a small space, seating can be a simple bistro table and two chairs. For

larger spaces, you can incorporate sofa and chair groupings, along with a small coffee table. A circular furniture pattern allows everyone to see each other.

Marathon Water Heaters Always warm water for whatever you need for whenever you need it.

320-762-1121 • 800-473-1722 www.RunestoneElectric.com

R001889464

18 April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

Vistas Select several vistas or view points for people to explore. Seating or rugs can help establish designated areas without fences or barriers. In creating vistas, you can use a combination of natural and manmade elements. This can include creating garden areas with rocks and fountains and adding little surprises such as statuettes, pagoda lanterns and seating for two.

Landscaping The first step in landscaping is cleaning up the space and trimming bushes, trees and overgrown plants to create a fresh palette. Plants can add color, style and definition to your space, and not all plants need to be in the ground. Create little vignettes throughout the yard by using varying sizes of planters.

Lighting Lighting can set the tone for any type of nighttime event. Provide ample lighting for your focal points and provide a mix of electric lighting and ambient lighting such as candles and candelabras. Other easy DIY lighting includes strings of lights, which can be used year-round, and simple solar lights.

Accessories Choose bold accessories for outdoor spaces. Your starting palette will be neutral, with a lot of greens and browns. Add pops of color with pillow cases or colored plants. Storage is another thing to consider to keep everything nicely organized. (BPT)

0Down,0%Financing up to 36Months A.P.R.

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*$0 down, 0% A.P.R. fi nancing for up to 36 months on purchases of new Kubota equipment (excluding VS Series) is available to qualifi ed purchasers from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory through 6/30/2014. Example: A 36-month monthly installment repayment term at 0% A.P.R. requires 36 payments of $27.78 per $1,000 fi nanced. 0% A.P.R. interest is available to customers if no dealer documentation preparation fee is charged. Dealer charge for document preparation fee shall be in accordance with state laws. Inclusion of ineligible equipment may result in a higher blended A.P.R. Not available for Rental, National Accounts or Governmental customers. 0% A.P.R. and low-rate fi nancing may not be available with customer instant rebate offers. Financing is available through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A., 3401 Del Amo Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 6/30/2014. See us for details on these and other low-rate options or go to www.kubota.com for more information. Optional www.kubota.com equipment may be shown.

April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

eed growth in a garden is not only unsightly, but also ultimately harmful to plants and vegetables. When weeds appear, they’ve already begun to steal nutrients and water from surrounding plants, and if allowed to grow tall, can block sunlight from reaching the plants. Here are some steps to limit weed growth so other plants can grow strong.

Lay mulch in vegetable gardens. Many people find it aesthetically appealing, but it serves more practical purposes as well. Mulch made of organic materials, such as bark chips or grass clippings, is often too heavy for weeds to push through, making it difficult, if not impossible, for weeds to sprout in the garden. But mulch also conserves moisture in the soil, strengthening plant roots as a result. Stronger roots can lead to a healthier garden.

Work the soil regularly. When weed roots are removed from the soil, weeds die. But just because you hoed or tilled the soil last month doesn’t mean new weeds won’t grow and start robbing plants of nutrients and minerals this month. Cultivate regularly, and pay particular attention to the soil after the garden has been watered. If weeds are allowed to go to seed, the garden can quickly be overwhelmed by them; young weeds tend to grow quickly and a little water might be all they need to sprout.

Simple ways to limit

WEED

GROWTH Lay down black plastic. Some gardeners avoid laying black plastic down in their gardens for fear that it robs the garden of its natural beauty. While that might be true, the black plastic also robs many weeds of their ability to grow. Some weeds may be especially

stubborn and grow under the plastic, forcing their way through holes cut for the plants to grow through. But laying black plastic covering over the garden before it’s planted is often an effective way to limit weed growth.

Cut down on plant spacing. The more space between plants, the more room weeds have to grow. But spacing plants too close together can make it difficult for vegetables to grow in. Spacing recommendations are usually included on seed packaging, but reducing those recommendations by an inch or two may allow plants to grow in strong while limiting weed growth at the same time. (Metro)

R001889448

Retaining Walls • Paver Driveways • Patios Walkways • Riprap • Trees & Shrubs

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001061269r1

20 April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

LIGHTING SETS THE STAGE

dding outdoor lighting to a home can increase its value and make it safer and more attractive. According to the American Lighting Association (ALA), adding outdoor lighting is easier and less expensive than many homeowners realize, allowing them to transform an existing patio, deck or pool area into a nighttime retreat. Consider the following tips, courtesy of ALA.

Add decorative elements. Lighting should play up decorative yard features and add ambience. Step lights make passage safe while highlighting molding or trim. An outdoor chandelier can make a wonderful accent. Patio lights provide atmosphere and illumination.

Improve navigation. Lighting is typically layered into a room or outdoor space in three ways: overhead, task and ambient. Even outdoors, where there are no typical boundaries and borders, those layers are necessary. Overhead lighting should improve visibility on steps, paths and walking surfaces, especially where there’s a bend or an intersection. Task lighting can be used around cooking or gardening areas. Ambient light will cast a comforting glow around any outdoor space.

Reduce glare. Outdoor lighting that casts a glare can be blinding. Lighting along paths should be cast downward, with hooded fixtures. A variety of lighting options will create layers. Exterior-safe dimmers provide flexible control over light levels, as can movable fixtures on a patio.

Enhance security. To improve visibility and security, combine a motion detector with a sconce to illuminate dark corners or entryways. Be

sure to aim lights away from the door to improve visibility. Lanterns on each side of the door can give a warm, welcoming feel and improve safety.

Enhance views. Use spotlights on trees, lights dotted along pathways and accent lights on unique landscape features, to create an idyllic landscape visible from inside the home. Outdoor lighting enhances functionality of yards and landscapes while making such areas safer. (Metro)

37910 210th St., Cyrus, MN 56323 • Owner John Boeckner Cell 320.808.3284 • www.creativecoatingsllc.com

Protect your investment and beautify it with design, durability and great appearance.

R001889478

Polyaspartics offers a unique, high end look to your drab and old floors. Your garage, deck and floors can now enhance your home or work place with a beautiful finish that will last for years. Polyaspartics is an aliphatic polyurea. It is known for its impact and chemical resistance. It is used in combo with vinyl chips, metallic pigment, mica chip or quartz granules. You can achieve a beautiful, seamless, long lasting floor.

001062522r1

Garage floor with G ith sprayliner, li gray border & WELCOME decal

Our Coatings can be applied to virtually any surface that needs protection from moisture, abrasion, impact, rust or corrosion. Great for sealing floors & showers to eliminate moldy grout lines, excellent for wood decks, concrete surfaces & of course trucks.

April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

TIRE MAINTENANCE an important safety precaution ires are the link between a vehicle and the roadway, and tire quality has a direct impact on the performance and safety of an automobile. Ignoring proper tire maintenance can threaten driver and passenger safety and make a vehicle operate inefficiently. Steering, braking ability and traction are all governed by good tires. Worn tread can result in longer stopping times and make it difficult to brake immediately in an emergency situation. Although driving tends to be the primary culprit behind worn tires, sometimes bald or unevenly worn tread is indicative of a larger problem, such as a misaligned wheelbase, improperly aligned tires or tires that are underinflated.

Following are some common problems associated with tires and how to address them.

Blowouts Worn tire treads increase the risk of punctures, which can lead to blowouts. Bald tires also may blowout as a result of friction on roadways that is met with minimal rubber. Routinely check tire treads and replace tires accordingly.

Tread depth Average new tires on cars usually start with 10/32 inch to 11/32 inch of original tread depth. When tread reaches a depth of 2/32 inch, they are considered worn out. There are different ways to gauge tread depth. Insert a penny into the tread groove with Lincoln’s head upside

MAINTENANCE and REPAIR • Factory Scheduled Maintenance • Oil Changes • Brakes • Exhaust • Heating & Cooling • Shocks and Struts • Alignments • Starting and Charging • Batteries • Diagnostics • Locally Owned and Operated • We service foreign and domestic cars • Tire - Sales & Service

down and facing you. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it is time to replace the tires. Or, look at the treadwear indicator bar molded into tires. When the bars become flush with the adjacent ribs of the tire, tires should be replaced.

When purchasing replacement tires, match the tread pattern to the existing tires. This helps enhance the performance of the car. In fact, some newer cars require tread to match. Mismatched treads may cause problems with transmission shifting or impact control and steadiness.

Alignment According to the Rubber Manufacturers Association, improper alignment causes rapid or uneven tread wear. Tires should be aligned and balanced periodically to avoid irregular wear.

Tire pressure Under-inflation of tires can cause failure, stress and irregular wear. Underinflated tires also may contribute to loss of control that leads to accidents. Always maintain the manufacturer’s recommendations for the correct pressure, which should be adjusted based on the temperature. (Metro)

Tread pattern Tires feature different tread patterns depending on the brand. They may be directional, asymmetrical, non-directional, and directional/ asymmetrical.

4 Wheel Alignment

79.95

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WE GUARANTEE OUR WORK

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22 April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

Car Care Professionals

Complete Auto Repair, Tires & Electrical Dept. • 5 BAY SERVICE SHOP

800-232-2442 • 320-762-2344 5803 State Hwy 29 S • Alexandria, MN www.diamondbuickgmc.com We are your Buick GMC full service dealer! Showroom: Mon.-Thurs. 8-7 Fri. 8-6 • Sat. 8 - 4 • Sun. Closed Evenings by Appointment Service: Mon.-Fri. 8 am - 5 pm Sat. 8 am - noon & Sun. Closed

GET YOUR SPRING CHECK UP TODAY!

For any vehicle... WE’LL BEAT YOUR BEST PRICE...GUARANTEED! On all name-brand tires we sell, including Goodyear, Michelin, Continental and more.

KOEP’S KORNER QUALITY AUTO CENTER

320-763-4900 or Toll Free: 1-877-272-5428 Corner of 6th & Hawthorne • Downtown Alexandria

1900 So Broadway • Alex, MN 320-763-3126 • Toll Free: 888-479-6479

FrontEndAlignment We are your locally owned and operated auto parts, paint, supplies and accessories resource!

Alexandria • 320-763-5138 Melrose • 320-256-7441 Osakis • 320-859-3572 Sauk Centre • 320-352-3979

www.napacentralmn.com

Your Complete Automotive Specialists:

• Front Ends • Brakes • Exhaust • Tune-Ups • Computer Systems • Service • Electrical

PRECISION AUTO 8TH & NOKOMIS, ALEXANDRIA • 320-762-5106 Mike Peterson & Kevin Johnson

Windshield Replacement & Repair

We Come to You! Gary Spaeth & Jeremy Spaeth

320-304-3929 garysautoglass@gctel.net Auto Glass • Tractor Cab Mirrors • Table tops • Flat Glass

124 7th Ave. E, Alexandria, MN 320-763-6691 Full line of Automotive, Truck Parts & Accessories Name brand parts, expert advice and automotive machine shop service HOURS: Mon-Fri 7:30-6:30 Sat 8-4, Sun 10-3

The Parts You Want...The Value You Expect.

•Transfer Case Rebuilding • Transmission Cooler Installation • Automatic & Manual Transmission Rebuilding • Front Wheel Drive Axle Rebuilding or Replacement • Local Circle Track Parts & Accessories Dealers

Import & Domestic 1801 Nokomis St. 320-762-9849

Gary’s Auto Glass Mobile Service

320-762-1067

4080 Latoka Beach Road SW, Alexandria Transmission from 1 Year to 3 Year Warranty

HOURS: Mon-Fri 8:00am to 5:30pm

OUR FULL SERVICE SHOP PROVIDES THE FOLLOWING SERVICES: • Latest Computer Diagnostics • Suspension Work • Brakes • Drivability Problems • Oil Changes • Tire Service • Tune Ups • Preventive Maintenance

Wade & Kari McCoy

• Computer Diagnostic • Electrical • Tune-Up • Air Conditioning • Scheduled Maintenance 4110 MINNESOTA STREET AIRPORT INDUSTRIAL PARK, ALEXANDRIA 320-759-2240 • Fax: 320-759-2245

Light - Heavy Duty Towing, Hauling, Recovery & Road Service

24 Glenn’s Towing HOUR

& REPAIR

Full Service Auto Repair 5227 Halvorson Rd NW, Garfield, MN 56332 Glenn Peterson, Owner

Phone: (320) 834-4462

Junk Car Removal

For all your car care needs... contact these specialists!

Free Towing With Repair

Some restrictions apply

“Small to Large Farm & Construction Equipment Hauling” 001051895r1

April 2014 • Spring Home Enhancement

Our patented suspension systems are engineered to provide you with a smooth ride on uneven turf. The deck of the mower works in conjunction with the suspension system to provide a consistent quality of cut. This system minimizes shock to the chassis, resulting in stability, speed and increased productivity.

No Monthly Interest for 36 Months!* On Purchases of $2,000 or more with your Briggs & Stratton credit card made between XX/1/2014 and X/3X/2014. A $125 promotion fee will be charged. 36 Equal Monthly Payments Required.

IS 3100Z

IS 2100Z

STARTING AS LOW AS

Mid-size, Maximum Value

Extreme Power and Performance

12,499

8,399

†

MODEL: 5900301

• Kawasaki® FX1000V DFI and Vanguard™ BIG BLOCK™ engine options • iCD™ Cutting System with stripe kit • 72" or 61" cutting widths • Hercules cast-iron mower spindles

MODEL: 5901300

• Vanguard™ BIG BLOCK™, Vanguard™ 810cc V-Twin engine, Kohler® Command PRO EFI engine, and Kawasaki® FX801V engine options • iCD™ Cutting System with stripe kit • 61" or 52" cutting widths

• Patented suspension system: Rear coil-over-shocks with dual cast-iron maintenance-free suspension arms and front independent adjustable shocks • Dual hydro pumps & wheel motors with 8" mounted cooling fans

†

• Dual commercial Hydro-Gear® ZT-5400 Powertain® transaxles with 7” cooling fans • Patented suspension system: Rear coil-over-shocks and front independent adjustable shocks

IS 700Z ®

Outstanding Value and Productivity STARTING AS LOW AS

5,999

†

MODEL: 5901265

• Vanguard™ BIG BLOCK™ engine, Vanguard™ 810cc V-Twin engine, Briggs & Stratton Commercial Turf Series™ engine, and Kawasaki® FS engine options • iCD™ Cutting System with stripe kit † ‡

• 61” or 52” cutting widths • Dual commercial Hydro-Gear® ZT-3400® transaxles with 7” mounted cooling fans • Patented suspension system: Rear coil-over-shocks and pivoting front axle

123 Green Acres Drive, Mowertown, ST

(321) 456-9870

1213 Broadway, 320-763-4455 Mon. Alexandria – Fri.: 9am –• 5pm Sat.: 9am – 12pm Hours: M-F 8-5:30; Sat. 8-3 www.YourDealership.com www.olliesservice.com

All loans subject to approval. Tax, set-up, and delivery fees not included. Models subject to change without notice. Current disclaimer from www.FerrisMowers.com goes here. Offer applies only to single-receipt qualifying purchases. A promo fee will be charged and included in the promo purchase balance equal to $125 for purchases of $2,000 or more. No monthly interest will be charged on promo purchase balance (including related promo fee) and equal monthly payments are required equal to 4.167% of initial promo purchase amount until promo is paid in full. The equal monthly payment will be rounded to the next highest whole dollar and may be higher than the minimum payment that would be required if the purchase was a non-promotional purchase. Regular account terms apply to non-promotional purchases. For new accounts: Purchase APR is 23.99%; Minimum Monthly interest Charge is $2. Existing cardholders should see their credit card agreement for their applicable terms. Subject to credit approval 001051836r1