Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, April 17, 2012/Page 8
THE BEST VALUE IN TV
Home Equity Loans Rates
as low as
4.25%
CALL US TODAY & ASK ABOUT OUR CURRENT PROMOTIONS!
Annual Percentage Rate, Variable 15 Years, $5,000 Minimum Loan, 100% Loan to Value
LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED!
www.unitedecu.com
Veldman Antenna
430 Bridge Ave., Albert Lea, MN 507-377-1616 507-377-0276
Authorized Retailer
Now Serving all Residents of Freeborn & Mower Counties
custom shower doors Custom Framless Shower Doors Professional Installation
ELECTRIC
door LOCKS
Professional Installation
A Special Supplement To The Freeborn County Shopper
April 17, 2012
1-507-889-3020 Restrictions apply. Call for details.
REPLACEMENT
WINDOWS • • • •
Residential Commerical New Construction Replacement
Garage Doors & Openers Many Styles to Suit Your Home or Business • Sales • Installation • repair Make Life Easi er with a
Total Glass-Lock, Inc. 311 West Main • Albert Lea, MN • 507-373-1000
HOME & LAWN
Garage Door O pener Many to Choose From Installation Av ailable
Guide
Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, April 17, 2012/Page 2
Rightway Roofing & Remodeling
DO IT THE RIGHT WAY THE FIRST TIME Top Quality Work at Affordable Prices
COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • FARM Shingles • Hot Tar • Rubber• Metal & Flat Roofing
Free Estimates • Bonded • Insured
507-373-0409 Cell 507-391-2362
71338 180th St., Albert Lea, MN License #20037743
Spring is here!
Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, April 17, 2012/Page 7
Budding Gardeners Troy Thompson Offers All Kinds of Insurance One Kind of Service
E-Mail: troy.thompsonagency@gmail.com
Troy Thompson LUTCF • Auto • Home • Life • Business • Personal Umbrella • Health
1330 W. Main, Albert Lea, MN 507-377-2852 Toll Free 877-974-9597 Fax: 507-377-3301
For personal, professional service and competitive rates, call me today.
“We represent over 50 companies."
We’ve Unlocked the Answer to Customer Satisfaction
While some people appear to have been born with a green thumb, others aren't so fortunate. Gardening does not come so instinctively to them. If you are among them, do not despair. You can learn how to garden and become really good at it by following some basic tips. Learn all that you can Read up on the subject of gardening, from the basics to the fine details. Check out some books and subscribe to a few magazines. Join a gardening club or at the very least get together with a group of gardening friends. The more data you collect, the better decisions you will make in the long run and the more likely you are to have some success.
Watch out for the pretty Budding gardeners too often select plants on their appearance rather than their requirements. They like the way a certain plant looks, plant it and then wonder why it doesn't measure up later. You need plants with requirements that your garden can meet. If your garden gets a great deal of sun, then you need plants that require full sun. If your garden is in the shade much of the day, then you need plants that require shade. Be patient Gardens take time to mature. Don't try to turn a budding garden into a mature garden with closer plantings and invasive species. While your garden might
look fuller at first, it will not stay that way. Some of the plants competing for space might not survive, while others might get run over by the invasive species. Correcting the issues won't be easy either, as transplanting doesn't always work and getting rid of a invasive species can be downright difficult. Compost, compost, compost! Set up a compost bin, add to it regularly and apply it every spring for a fertile garden. It will save you big time in fertilizer costs, help the environment and give your plants the extra boost they need. Creating a compost bin is not that difficult either. There are tons of howto's and tips online.
Open!
Join Us for Our Spring Open House Saturday, April 28th & Sunday, April 29th
20% Off
Home
Pottery & Garden Gloves
Improvement
Thermal Windows
Custom Shower Enclosures
Loan
Competitive Rates Local Service
• Bailey Nurseries Rep on hand for your questions Saturday 9-1 • Prom Portraits in our lush greenhouses Saturday 10-2!
– We Also Offer –
Door Prizes • Kid’s Potting Project • Refreshments
• Windshield/Window/Screen Repair & Replacement • Complete Residential & Commercial Lock Service • Commercial & Residential Garage & Entry Doors • Store Fronts • Fiberglass Doors (resist rust) • Auto Lock Work & Lockout Service
Garden Glove Give-Away! Free Pair of Gloves With Qualifying $50 Order - While Supplies Last - Limited sizes, styles & colors available
We Make Keys for Cars!
Residential • Commercial • Industrial
Owners: Keith & Angie Flatness
437 Bridge Ave • Albert Lea 507- 373-1481
You don't have to be born with a green thumb to become a great gardener. You can learn how to master the art over time. All it takes is some patience and practice.
Hill’s GardensNow
GARAGES
see us for your next...
Be realistic Again, gardens take time to mature. Don't push yourself so hard in the beginning that you run out of steam and call it quits. Take your time, be prepared to make mistakes and don't be afraid to ask for help. The best gardens often come out of years of trial and error. If you don't get it right the first time, ask a buddy for some advice, and remember, there's always next year.
201 Main Street • Emmons 507-297-5461
www.securitybankmn.com
717 Marshall St. • Albert Lea • 507-373-9446
Visit Us On Facebook at facebook.com/southernlock 24 HOUR EMERGENCY LOCK & GLASS SERVICE 507-402-1618
2512 W. Main St., Albert Lea 507-373-7253 1/2 Mile West of Skyline Plaza Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8-8, Sat. 8-6, Sun. 12-6 A Family Tradition of Quality Growing
Gift Cards Available!
www.hillsgardens.com
Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, April 17, 2012/Page 6
Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, April 17, 2012/Page 3
Different Types of Floor Coverings Different flooring types provide different statements to any room you install flooring. There is the stone flooring that expresses your passion for uniqueness. With all the different stone tiles available, choosing this type of floor allows for different designs. Add to a kitchen or front entrance way for more of protective flooring. Ceramic tiles enhance the bathroom or the kitchen. The appealing shine and glimmer draws attention to any room you place ceramic tiling. The main thing with ceramic flooring is not to use in a room with a lot of furniture such as a
living room or den. Designing the flooring becomes easy when you choose a pattern to enhance the tiles. The vinyl flooring offers textured and non-textured vinyl tiles and installation with an adhesive type substance to hold the tile in place. You will need to keep the floor dry and sealed to prevent lifting of the tiles. Vinyl tiling is more susceptible to flaws from years of wear and tear. Hardwood floors are beautiful in any home, and have become a popular choice in recent years. Many hom-
FLOOR TECH, inc. Your Source for All Your Flooring Needs!
CARPET | VINYL LAMINATE | HARDWOOD Call Us Now for a Consultation at One of Our 2 Convenient Locations 2201 E. Main St., Albert Lea 507-552-1637
eowners are opting for laminate wood flooring for it's durability making this another option for home owners who love the look of wood flooring. With the many different floor covering, you have to choose from for your home carpeting is still a choice many like to go with. Carpeting is nice for bedrooms rooms and stairs, but many of the other floorings listed here have become popular choices for dining rooms, kitchens and great rooms. Considering all of them before you make your final choice is a good idea.
Remodeling? Building a New Home? Attention Contractors, Home Remodelers & Home Owners! Check R&R Floors for the best local selection in floor coverings • Carpet • Vinyl • Ceramic • Wood • Laminate • Luxury Vinyl Tile Expert Installation
R&RFlooring Alden, MN
507-874-3261
Different Deck Materials Building a deck or adding on to one you already have is a way of expanding the living space of a home. A deck or patio is much more inexpensive than a complete addition to a home. It might not, technically, be living space, but a nice deck will add space you can utilize during the warm months of the year. You can build a deck out of various materials. Wood is still the most common material used
100% Seamless Aluminum Gutters Pole Buildings, Seamless Steel Roofing & Siding, Windows, Homes & Additions
LICENSED & INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES
BARRY BRAATEN 507-363-1198 30 PLUS YEARS EXPIERENCE
Lic# BC626316
www.braatenbuilders.com
but there are different types of wood you can use. Composite and PVC are other common choices. Let's look at the options. Wood decking materials are easy to find and build. They can be Pine, Cedar, Mahogany, or other species. The important thing to look for here is green treated lumber. Lumber that is green treated will not decay as quickly as untreated lumber. Since a deck is outdoors in the weather elements year-round, it is important to protect your wood decking materials as much as possible. Green treated lumber is the first step. The species of wood you choose isn't a make-or-break decision. They all look good and they all need regular maintenance to get them to last longer. All wood decks should be cleaned and resealed every two years at a minimum. Every year is better
Root River Hardwoods, Inc.
but every two years is almost as good. Composite decking materials have been around a while now and their popularity has plateaued. Composite materials are made from various post-consumer products like plastics and woods. They will last longer than wood with less maintenance but they have some cons of their own. Composite decking materials are known to allow mold growth. This will depend on your climate and can easily be washed off but it is something to keep in mind. Composite decks will, also, expand and contract much more, with the temperature changes, than wood. This is rarely a problem for homeowners, however. The color can fade quickly with composite boards and some styles are quite slick when they get wet.
PVC decking materials are relatively new to the market but have already left their mark. PVC is virtually maintenance free and can be cleaned with a garden hose. PVC decking materials now come in several different colors, including earth tones so you don't have to settle for white vinyl. PVC will be more expensive than other materials to build with but it will last much longer and require much less maintenance. To reduce the cost a little, you can look for PVC covered composite. Some of these simply, have PVC covering one side to protect it from the weather. Consult a professional to discuss your options and what will work best with your budget and space. What your budget can afford is very important. However, decking is not a wasted effort. It is an investment in the house and property value and becomes a financial asset.
Your Partner in Quality Mortgage Products & Services First Time Home Buyer Loans Home Equity Loans
www.rootriverhardwoods.com
Come Visit Our Showroom
610 South Broadway Ave. Albert Lea, MN
1-800-323-1863 or 507-377-1863
322 E. Main St., Blooming Prairie 507-583-2276
www.tradesandlabor.com
On the Right Track with Your Financial Needs
Beyond all its beauty and worry-free practicality, homeowners choose TimberTech decking, railing and fencing for our proven quality and unrivaled range of choices, colors and design possibilities.
It's not just a deck, It's TimberTech. DECKING RAILING FENCING DRYSPACE ACCESSORIES 1300 Energy Drive • Preston, MN 55965 1.507.765.2284 • preston@rootriverhardwoods.com ____________________________________ 404 Airport Road • Albert Lea, MN 56007 1.507.377.8781 • albertlea@rootriverhardwoods.com
TIMBERTECH.COM 971 Plaza St., Albert Lea 507-377-4284 www.freebornlumber.com M-F 7:30am-5pm; Thurs until 7pm
“Our mission is to provide financial products, services, and education enabling members to achieve personal and financial goals to benefit their quality of life”
Ag Financing
Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, April 17, 2012/Page 4
SPECIALIZING IN SEPTIC SYSTEMS • Conservation Construction • Land Drainage • Wildlife Ponds • Road Boring • Backhoeing ~DESIGN~ • Consulting ~INSTALLATION~
~SEEDING~
PHILLIP OR MARK MORREIM RD 3T s !LBERT ,EA /FFICE (OME OR #ELL
Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, April 17, 2012/Page 5
Come Home to Comfort... UP TO
40%
Call
507-553-3465
ENERGY SAVINGS!
Custom Window Designs 147 S. Broadway Wells, MN Formerly Window Depot
cwdesigns@bevcomm.net
What We Can Do For You!
NG IN SEPTIC SYSTEMS TALLATION~SEEDING
The Right Way To Mow You cut your grass a few days ago, but already, it's looking a little long. Darn! You trudge to the garden shed, pull out your mower, set the blades low and start chopping. Chopping? Yikes! If you want your lawn to look good, you need to mow it well.
evening when the sun has almost set and the grass is dry? Hopefully, you choose the latter when conditions are perfect for mowing.
Proper mowing is essential to a healthy lawn, and timing is everything. When do you mow your lawn? Do you get up early in the morning and plow your way through the wet grass, never worrying about slipping, spreading disease or clogging up the mower blades? Do you wait until mid-afternoon when the heat will place you and the grass under a lot of stress? Do you mow in the
make. Sharpen your mower blades often throughout the season for a clean cut.
How do you mow? Do you start in the same corner and mow in the same direction each time? While you might appreciate the routine, your grass won't, as it will soon grow in the pattern you have created. For straighter grass strands, mow in a different direction each time. This will also allow for a more even cut.
At what height are your mower blades set? Sharp mower blades won't mean a thing if you don't have them set at the proper height. You will find dozens of charts with height recommendations for various grass types. Most experts, however, advise never cutting more than a third of the glass blades at a time. This will allow for deeper root systems, better growth and fewer weeds.
How sharp are your mower blades? Mower blades are like knives. The duller they are, the more ragged cut they will
What happens if you miss a week or two? Don't try to make up for it by moving down your blade and cutting it shorter. The
No need to Rake!
longer, heavier clippings will clog up the mower fast and leave many clumps on the lawn. Instead, cut the grass at the highest height possible and then cut it again at the normal height a few days later. Stick to the one-third rule and you'll never have to worry about clippings. You can just leave them on the lawn. They will decompose quickly and fertilize the grass (they will not lead to the buildup of thatch as you may have heard). If you want to dispose of the clippings, you may do so but be careful how you go about this. Most city dumps will not take them. Consider using them to fertilize your garden or flowerbeds instead.
Mower Blades
Example: LG184 EXAMPLE: LG184 $40.99*LG184 $53.25* EXAMPLE: Home HomeMaintenance MaintenanceKitKit $40.99*
John Deere “shatter resistant” mower blades are the best around, thanks to high-quality materials and extra care in production. Giving you a better cutting job and longer blade life.
‡
Let the mower do the work
‡
™
NOTHING RUNS LIKE A DEERE
Home Maintenance Kit
NOTHING RUNS LIKE A DEERE™
• Siding •Windows • Doors • Decks • Roofing • Insulation • Construction
BH25LE Blower
•1 oilMost filterKits & 2 Include quarts oil *
•1 oil filter & 2 quarts oil •1 air filter & 1 fuel filter
Tired of trying to get your tile clean?
RD 3T s !LBERT ,EA s /FFICE OR #ELL Let us do the HARD work! Spring Cleaning Special
Carpet Cleaning Steam It Clean - Expires 5/15/12.
SteamIt Clean 507-402-2348 or 507-440-2389
3!,%3 s 3%26)#% s 0!243
M&S
Nothing Like a FineNothing a FineTuned Like Machine Tuned Machine
Mon. thru Fri. 8:30-5:30, Sat. 9:00-Noon
Spring Home Improvement
•1 air filter & 1 fuel filter •Air precleaner •Air precleaner • Spark plugs • Spark plugs
VISIT YOUR GOLD STAR CERTIFIED JOHN DEERE DEALER TODAY!
www.JohnDeere.com VISIT YOUR GOLD STAR CERTIFIED JOHN DEERE DEALER TODAY!
www.JohnDeere.com
ERLANDSON'S, INC. 214 EAST STATEINC. STREET ERLANDSON'S, KIESTER, 56051 214 EAST MN STATE STREET (507) 294-3244 KIESTER, MN 56051 (507) 294-3244
Outdoor Equipment 519 Prospect, Albert Lea, MN • 507-377-7705
Jesse & Kelly Krick
Power up our most affordable blower.
Most Kits Include
HILLIP OR MARK MORREIM
Any
†
ERLANDSON'S, INC. 77783 209TH ST INC. ERLANDSON'S, ALBERT LEA,ST MN 56007 77783 209TH (507) 373-6418 ALBERT LEA, MN 56007 (507) 373-6418
����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� C23BCA6-00234632 ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� �
�
�
�
dren stay well away. Finally make sure your mower is in good condition and the blades are sharp. Then get ready to give it a go!
Proper mowing is key to a lush lawn. Know what is involved, follow through and never take safety for granted. Wear the appropriate apparel and safety gear when mowing-long pants, good shoes and eye and ear protection. Clear the lawn of debris beforehand, take pets inside and insist chil-
Your Full Service Builder/Remodeler
BH25LE Blower
RICH HONSTAD SIDING & WINDOW
20% Off
Power up our most affordable blower.
$219.00 (UT26523)**
Construction • Land Drainage • Road Boring • Backhoeing • Consulting 507-863-2100 398 5th Ave., Freeborn 507-383-1113
Now offering Hard Surface Cleaning Call for a free Quote!
†
$219.00 (UT26523)**
As the growing season comes to an end, lower your mower blades for a shorter cut. This will retard the growth and reduce the chances of snow mold later. When spring arrives, take a day to clean up and make way for new grass. Remove any leaves and other brush that may have fallen onto your lawn during the winter that could smother the grass.
•Pole Buildings •New Construction •Remodeling •Fire & Water Restoration •Additions, etc. No job is too big or too small...
We Do It All! ris Larson h C Co
CLC
LLC
n str ucti o n
Cell: 507-383-1061 Licensed, Bonded & Insured Lic. #BC637482
Licensed & Insured #20573223
“For All Your Construction Needs”
• Roofing • Concrete • Decks • Siding • Additions • Garages • Landscaping • Skid Loader Work Call Mark at
507-383-0339
Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, April 17, 2012/Page 4
SPECIALIZING IN SEPTIC SYSTEMS • Conservation Construction • Land Drainage • Wildlife Ponds • Road Boring • Backhoeing ~DESIGN~ • Consulting ~INSTALLATION~
~SEEDING~
PHILLIP OR MARK MORREIM RD 3T s !LBERT ,EA /FFICE (OME OR #ELL
Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, April 17, 2012/Page 5
Come Home to Comfort... UP TO
40%
Call
507-553-3465
ENERGY SAVINGS!
Custom Window Designs 147 S. Broadway Wells, MN Formerly Window Depot
cwdesigns@bevcomm.net
What We Can Do For You!
NG IN SEPTIC SYSTEMS TALLATION~SEEDING
The Right Way To Mow You cut your grass a few days ago, but already, it's looking a little long. Darn! You trudge to the garden shed, pull out your mower, set the blades low and start chopping. Chopping? Yikes! If you want your lawn to look good, you need to mow it well.
evening when the sun has almost set and the grass is dry? Hopefully, you choose the latter when conditions are perfect for mowing.
Proper mowing is essential to a healthy lawn, and timing is everything. When do you mow your lawn? Do you get up early in the morning and plow your way through the wet grass, never worrying about slipping, spreading disease or clogging up the mower blades? Do you wait until mid-afternoon when the heat will place you and the grass under a lot of stress? Do you mow in the
make. Sharpen your mower blades often throughout the season for a clean cut.
How do you mow? Do you start in the same corner and mow in the same direction each time? While you might appreciate the routine, your grass won't, as it will soon grow in the pattern you have created. For straighter grass strands, mow in a different direction each time. This will also allow for a more even cut.
At what height are your mower blades set? Sharp mower blades won't mean a thing if you don't have them set at the proper height. You will find dozens of charts with height recommendations for various grass types. Most experts, however, advise never cutting more than a third of the glass blades at a time. This will allow for deeper root systems, better growth and fewer weeds.
How sharp are your mower blades? Mower blades are like knives. The duller they are, the more ragged cut they will
What happens if you miss a week or two? Don't try to make up for it by moving down your blade and cutting it shorter. The
No need to Rake!
longer, heavier clippings will clog up the mower fast and leave many clumps on the lawn. Instead, cut the grass at the highest height possible and then cut it again at the normal height a few days later. Stick to the one-third rule and you'll never have to worry about clippings. You can just leave them on the lawn. They will decompose quickly and fertilize the grass (they will not lead to the buildup of thatch as you may have heard). If you want to dispose of the clippings, you may do so but be careful how you go about this. Most city dumps will not take them. Consider using them to fertilize your garden or flowerbeds instead.
Mower Blades
Example: LG184 EXAMPLE: LG184 $40.99*LG184 $53.25* EXAMPLE: Home HomeMaintenance MaintenanceKitKit $40.99*
John Deere “shatter resistant” mower blades are the best around, thanks to high-quality materials and extra care in production. Giving you a better cutting job and longer blade life.
‡
Let the mower do the work
‡
™
NOTHING RUNS LIKE A DEERE
Home Maintenance Kit
NOTHING RUNS LIKE A DEERE™
• Siding •Windows • Doors • Decks • Roofing • Insulation • Construction
BH25LE Blower
•1 oilMost filterKits & 2 Include quarts oil *
•1 oil filter & 2 quarts oil •1 air filter & 1 fuel filter
Tired of trying to get your tile clean?
RD 3T s !LBERT ,EA s /FFICE OR #ELL Let us do the HARD work! Spring Cleaning Special
Carpet Cleaning Steam It Clean - Expires 5/15/12.
SteamIt Clean 507-402-2348 or 507-440-2389
3!,%3 s 3%26)#% s 0!243
M&S
Nothing Like a FineNothing a FineTuned Like Machine Tuned Machine
Mon. thru Fri. 8:30-5:30, Sat. 9:00-Noon
Spring Home Improvement
•1 air filter & 1 fuel filter •Air precleaner •Air precleaner • Spark plugs • Spark plugs
VISIT YOUR GOLD STAR CERTIFIED JOHN DEERE DEALER TODAY!
www.JohnDeere.com VISIT YOUR GOLD STAR CERTIFIED JOHN DEERE DEALER TODAY!
www.JohnDeere.com
ERLANDSON'S, INC. 214 EAST STATEINC. STREET ERLANDSON'S, KIESTER, 56051 214 EAST MN STATE STREET (507) 294-3244 KIESTER, MN 56051 (507) 294-3244
Outdoor Equipment 519 Prospect, Albert Lea, MN • 507-377-7705
Jesse & Kelly Krick
Power up our most affordable blower.
Most Kits Include
HILLIP OR MARK MORREIM
Any
†
ERLANDSON'S, INC. 77783 209TH ST INC. ERLANDSON'S, ALBERT LEA,ST MN 56007 77783 209TH (507) 373-6418 ALBERT LEA, MN 56007 (507) 373-6418
����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� C23BCA6-00234632 ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� �
�
�
�
dren stay well away. Finally make sure your mower is in good condition and the blades are sharp. Then get ready to give it a go!
Proper mowing is key to a lush lawn. Know what is involved, follow through and never take safety for granted. Wear the appropriate apparel and safety gear when mowing-long pants, good shoes and eye and ear protection. Clear the lawn of debris beforehand, take pets inside and insist chil-
Your Full Service Builder/Remodeler
BH25LE Blower
RICH HONSTAD SIDING & WINDOW
20% Off
Power up our most affordable blower.
$219.00 (UT26523)**
Construction • Land Drainage • Road Boring • Backhoeing • Consulting 507-863-2100 398 5th Ave., Freeborn 507-383-1113
Now offering Hard Surface Cleaning Call for a free Quote!
†
$219.00 (UT26523)**
As the growing season comes to an end, lower your mower blades for a shorter cut. This will retard the growth and reduce the chances of snow mold later. When spring arrives, take a day to clean up and make way for new grass. Remove any leaves and other brush that may have fallen onto your lawn during the winter that could smother the grass.
•Pole Buildings •New Construction •Remodeling •Fire & Water Restoration •Additions, etc. No job is too big or too small...
We Do It All! ris Larson h C Co
CLC
LLC
n str ucti o n
Cell: 507-383-1061 Licensed, Bonded & Insured Lic. #BC637482
Licensed & Insured #20573223
“For All Your Construction Needs”
• Roofing • Concrete • Decks • Siding • Additions • Garages • Landscaping • Skid Loader Work Call Mark at
507-383-0339
Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, April 17, 2012/Page 6
Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, April 17, 2012/Page 3
Different Types of Floor Coverings Different flooring types provide different statements to any room you install flooring. There is the stone flooring that expresses your passion for uniqueness. With all the different stone tiles available, choosing this type of floor allows for different designs. Add to a kitchen or front entrance way for more of protective flooring. Ceramic tiles enhance the bathroom or the kitchen. The appealing shine and glimmer draws attention to any room you place ceramic tiling. The main thing with ceramic flooring is not to use in a room with a lot of furniture such as a
living room or den. Designing the flooring becomes easy when you choose a pattern to enhance the tiles. The vinyl flooring offers textured and non-textured vinyl tiles and installation with an adhesive type substance to hold the tile in place. You will need to keep the floor dry and sealed to prevent lifting of the tiles. Vinyl tiling is more susceptible to flaws from years of wear and tear. Hardwood floors are beautiful in any home, and have become a popular choice in recent years. Many hom-
FLOOR TECH, inc. Your Source for All Your Flooring Needs!
CARPET | VINYL LAMINATE | HARDWOOD Call Us Now for a Consultation at One of Our 2 Convenient Locations 2201 E. Main St., Albert Lea 507-552-1637
eowners are opting for laminate wood flooring for it's durability making this another option for home owners who love the look of wood flooring. With the many different floor covering, you have to choose from for your home carpeting is still a choice many like to go with. Carpeting is nice for bedrooms rooms and stairs, but many of the other floorings listed here have become popular choices for dining rooms, kitchens and great rooms. Considering all of them before you make your final choice is a good idea.
Remodeling? Building a New Home? Attention Contractors, Home Remodelers & Home Owners! Check R&R Floors for the best local selection in floor coverings • Carpet • Vinyl • Ceramic • Wood • Laminate • Luxury Vinyl Tile Expert Installation
R&RFlooring Alden, MN
507-874-3261
Different Deck Materials Building a deck or adding on to one you already have is a way of expanding the living space of a home. A deck or patio is much more inexpensive than a complete addition to a home. It might not, technically, be living space, but a nice deck will add space you can utilize during the warm months of the year. You can build a deck out of various materials. Wood is still the most common material used
100% Seamless Aluminum Gutters Pole Buildings, Seamless Steel Roofing & Siding, Windows, Homes & Additions
LICENSED & INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES
BARRY BRAATEN 507-363-1198 30 PLUS YEARS EXPIERENCE
Lic# BC626316
www.braatenbuilders.com
but there are different types of wood you can use. Composite and PVC are other common choices. Let's look at the options. Wood decking materials are easy to find and build. They can be Pine, Cedar, Mahogany, or other species. The important thing to look for here is green treated lumber. Lumber that is green treated will not decay as quickly as untreated lumber. Since a deck is outdoors in the weather elements year-round, it is important to protect your wood decking materials as much as possible. Green treated lumber is the first step. The species of wood you choose isn't a make-or-break decision. They all look good and they all need regular maintenance to get them to last longer. All wood decks should be cleaned and resealed every two years at a minimum. Every year is better
Root River Hardwoods, Inc.
but every two years is almost as good. Composite decking materials have been around a while now and their popularity has plateaued. Composite materials are made from various post-consumer products like plastics and woods. They will last longer than wood with less maintenance but they have some cons of their own. Composite decking materials are known to allow mold growth. This will depend on your climate and can easily be washed off but it is something to keep in mind. Composite decks will, also, expand and contract much more, with the temperature changes, than wood. This is rarely a problem for homeowners, however. The color can fade quickly with composite boards and some styles are quite slick when they get wet.
PVC decking materials are relatively new to the market but have already left their mark. PVC is virtually maintenance free and can be cleaned with a garden hose. PVC decking materials now come in several different colors, including earth tones so you don't have to settle for white vinyl. PVC will be more expensive than other materials to build with but it will last much longer and require much less maintenance. To reduce the cost a little, you can look for PVC covered composite. Some of these simply, have PVC covering one side to protect it from the weather. Consult a professional to discuss your options and what will work best with your budget and space. What your budget can afford is very important. However, decking is not a wasted effort. It is an investment in the house and property value and becomes a financial asset.
Your Partner in Quality Mortgage Products & Services First Time Home Buyer Loans Home Equity Loans
www.rootriverhardwoods.com
Come Visit Our Showroom
610 South Broadway Ave. Albert Lea, MN
1-800-323-1863 or 507-377-1863
322 E. Main St., Blooming Prairie 507-583-2276
www.tradesandlabor.com
On the Right Track with Your Financial Needs
Beyond all its beauty and worry-free practicality, homeowners choose TimberTech decking, railing and fencing for our proven quality and unrivaled range of choices, colors and design possibilities.
It's not just a deck, It's TimberTech. DECKING RAILING FENCING DRYSPACE ACCESSORIES 1300 Energy Drive • Preston, MN 55965 1.507.765.2284 • preston@rootriverhardwoods.com ____________________________________ 404 Airport Road • Albert Lea, MN 56007 1.507.377.8781 • albertlea@rootriverhardwoods.com
TIMBERTECH.COM 971 Plaza St., Albert Lea 507-377-4284 www.freebornlumber.com M-F 7:30am-5pm; Thurs until 7pm
“Our mission is to provide financial products, services, and education enabling members to achieve personal and financial goals to benefit their quality of life”
Ag Financing
Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, April 17, 2012/Page 2
Rightway Roofing & Remodeling
DO IT THE RIGHT WAY THE FIRST TIME Top Quality Work at Affordable Prices
COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • FARM Shingles • Hot Tar • Rubber• Metal & Flat Roofing
Free Estimates • Bonded • Insured
507-373-0409 Cell 507-391-2362
71338 180th St., Albert Lea, MN License #20037743
Spring is here!
Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, April 17, 2012/Page 7
Budding Gardeners Troy Thompson Offers All Kinds of Insurance One Kind of Service
E-Mail: troy.thompsonagency@gmail.com
Troy Thompson LUTCF • Auto • Home • Life • Business • Personal Umbrella • Health
1330 W. Main, Albert Lea, MN 507-377-2852 Toll Free 877-974-9597 Fax: 507-377-3301
For personal, professional service and competitive rates, call me today.
“We represent over 50 companies."
We’ve Unlocked the Answer to Customer Satisfaction
While some people appear to have been born with a green thumb, others aren't so fortunate. Gardening does not come so instinctively to them. If you are among them, do not despair. You can learn how to garden and become really good at it by following some basic tips. Learn all that you can Read up on the subject of gardening, from the basics to the fine details. Check out some books and subscribe to a few magazines. Join a gardening club or at the very least get together with a group of gardening friends. The more data you collect, the better decisions you will make in the long run and the more likely you are to have some success.
Watch out for the pretty Budding gardeners too often select plants on their appearance rather than their requirements. They like the way a certain plant looks, plant it and then wonder why it doesn't measure up later. You need plants with requirements that your garden can meet. If your garden gets a great deal of sun, then you need plants that require full sun. If your garden is in the shade much of the day, then you need plants that require shade. Be patient Gardens take time to mature. Don't try to turn a budding garden into a mature garden with closer plantings and invasive species. While your garden might
look fuller at first, it will not stay that way. Some of the plants competing for space might not survive, while others might get run over by the invasive species. Correcting the issues won't be easy either, as transplanting doesn't always work and getting rid of a invasive species can be downright difficult. Compost, compost, compost! Set up a compost bin, add to it regularly and apply it every spring for a fertile garden. It will save you big time in fertilizer costs, help the environment and give your plants the extra boost they need. Creating a compost bin is not that difficult either. There are tons of howto's and tips online.
Open!
Join Us for Our Spring Open House Saturday, April 28th & Sunday, April 29th
20% Off
Home
Pottery & Garden Gloves
Improvement
Thermal Windows
Custom Shower Enclosures
Loan
Competitive Rates Local Service
• Bailey Nurseries Rep on hand for your questions Saturday 9-1 • Prom Portraits in our lush greenhouses Saturday 10-2!
– We Also Offer –
Door Prizes • Kid’s Potting Project • Refreshments
• Windshield/Window/Screen Repair & Replacement • Complete Residential & Commercial Lock Service • Commercial & Residential Garage & Entry Doors • Store Fronts • Fiberglass Doors (resist rust) • Auto Lock Work & Lockout Service
Garden Glove Give-Away! Free Pair of Gloves With Qualifying $50 Order - While Supplies Last - Limited sizes, styles & colors available
We Make Keys for Cars!
Residential • Commercial • Industrial
Owners: Keith & Angie Flatness
437 Bridge Ave • Albert Lea 507- 373-1481
You don't have to be born with a green thumb to become a great gardener. You can learn how to master the art over time. All it takes is some patience and practice.
Hill’s GardensNow
GARAGES
see us for your next...
Be realistic Again, gardens take time to mature. Don't push yourself so hard in the beginning that you run out of steam and call it quits. Take your time, be prepared to make mistakes and don't be afraid to ask for help. The best gardens often come out of years of trial and error. If you don't get it right the first time, ask a buddy for some advice, and remember, there's always next year.
201 Main Street • Emmons 507-297-5461
www.securitybankmn.com
717 Marshall St. • Albert Lea • 507-373-9446
Visit Us On Facebook at facebook.com/southernlock 24 HOUR EMERGENCY LOCK & GLASS SERVICE 507-402-1618
2512 W. Main St., Albert Lea 507-373-7253 1/2 Mile West of Skyline Plaza Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8-8, Sat. 8-6, Sun. 12-6 A Family Tradition of Quality Growing
Gift Cards Available!
www.hillsgardens.com
Supplement to The Freeborn County Shopper/Tuesday, April 17, 2012/Page 8
THE BEST VALUE IN TV
Home Equity Loans Rates
as low as
4.25%
CALL US TODAY & ASK ABOUT OUR CURRENT PROMOTIONS!
Annual Percentage Rate, Variable 15 Years, $5,000 Minimum Loan, 100% Loan to Value
LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED!
www.unitedecu.com
Veldman Antenna
430 Bridge Ave., Albert Lea, MN 507-377-1616 507-377-0276
Authorized Retailer
Now Serving all Residents of Freeborn & Mower Counties
custom shower doors Custom Framless Shower Doors Professional Installation
ELECTRIC
door LOCKS
Professional Installation
A Special Supplement To The Freeborn County Shopper
April 17, 2012
1-507-889-3020 Restrictions apply. Call for details.
REPLACEMENT
WINDOWS • • • •
Residential Commerical New Construction Replacement
Garage Doors & Openers Many Styles to Suit Your Home or Business • Sales • Installation • repair Make Life Easi er with a
Total Glass-Lock, Inc. 311 West Main • Albert Lea, MN • 507-373-1000
HOME & LAWN
Garage Door O pener Many to Choose From Installation Av ailable
Guide