Fond du Lac
Fall Home Improvement • Action Reporter Media • October 2014 • 1
fall home improvement Action Reporter Media • October 2014
backyard projects
Decor
through the decades
save energy
2 • Fall Home Improvement • Action Reporter Media • October 2014
Decor through the decades
Updating a kitchen or bath doesn’t need to break the bank. Simple fixes, such as installing a new faucet or new knobs or drawer pulls can change the look of a room. By Brandpoint Media
Fond du Lac fall home improvement
Backyard Projects ���������������� 4 Save energy �������������������������� 5 Weatherization myths ����������� 6
2014 Fall Home Improvement is published by Action Reporter Media, Fond du Lac. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior consent of Action Reporter Media. For more information, contact Heather Bradwin, at 920-907-7901. General Manager/Karen Befus Advertising Manager/Heather Bradwin Features Editor/Katie Larson www.fdlreporter.com
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Remember when brass fixtures and mauve countertops were all the rage in kitchen design? How about the days of shag carpet (yes, in the bathroom) and avocado tile? Fortunately, those particular trends have come and gone. “The two biggest sellers of a home are kitchen and bathrooms. When a potential buyer looks at a home, a large percent of the time these are the rooms that they look at first,” said John Gruszynske, owner of JG Custom Cabinetry and Design in Rosendale, WI. “These two rooms are indeed the most expensive rooms to update, however, they give the most return.” Whether you embraced them or not, trends of decades past did have an influence on the space you live in right now. Take a look through the decades to see how decor styles have evolved into the modern kitchens and bathrooms of today.
1930s America was entering the Great Depression, and while the country’s economy was sinking, Art Deco design was giving homemakers hope by becoming more accessible to the middle
class. This decor style featured polished lines, geometric shapes, metallic tones ... and let mom know it was OK to have some fun with color - especially in the kitchen.
Before
“Trends today are constantly changing, evolving and coming back in to style. Colors are no exception. Grey tones are in. Black tones are in. Whites have always been popular and seems as if they always will be,” says Gruszynske who has seen a spike in painted cabinetry, whether as a DIY project or with the help of their professional paint department. “Many customers like to choose a neutral color overall and add in colorful accent piece. Contrasting cabinetry pieces are common, for example using a white island with black or dark brown cabinetry.” The slow economy also made the 1930s a great time for creative inventions. One innovation, which you have certainly used, was the single-handle faucet. In 1939, a young Al Moen was cleaning up after an evening of work when he went to wash his hands at an old-fashioned, two-handle faucet. A sudden burst of hot water made him jump back in alarm and this moment of surprise turned out to be the inspiration for the single-handle mixing faucet - an
After Decor continued on page 6
Fall Home Improvement • Action Reporter Media • October 2014 • 3
Pick a standout color for your front door
Trim bushes, create great container gardens
Sticking with your door? A fresh coat of paint will do wonders. Try a bold color to brighten a neutral color scheme. Pick a color that coordinates with your home’s exterior, but dare to be bold with color contrast to add eye appeal.
Landscaping should accent your home, not dominate it. Keep bushes below the bottom sill of your windows to improve your view. Trim or replace overgrown shrubs and trees. Keep plant material trimmed several feet away from your home to minimize damage from wind or insects, and help eliminate a place for prowlers to lurk. Keep your porch and steps clear of clutter and create container gardens to accent your entry. Fill decorative containers with plants that accent your home’s color scheme, front door and landscape design.
Update your hardware Why stop with a fresh coat of paint? Refresh old doors with new hardware. Choose handles and door knockers that complement your home’s exterior design. Pella offers hardware in a variety of finishes, to instantly upgrade exterior doors.
Replace broken or damaged items
grand entrance Make a
Simple ideas to refresh your entryway
By Brandpoint Media Most people enter their home through the garage or backdoor, forgetting how the front entrance looks to neighbors and guests. Your front door is often the first thing others notice about your home. That’s why it’s key to make a positive first impression.
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Replace broken light fixtures, burned out bulbs and worn out weather-stripping on exterior doors. Pitch that faded wreath, worn out mat, and dead plants, and instead, add a bright new welcome mat and eye-catching seasonal decorations.
Clean up, accent with contrast Use a little elbow grease and ammonia-free, vinegar-based glass cleaner to wash the windows. Wipe down window and door frames and sweep sills with a dry paint brush or vacuum to remove dirt. See pella.com/news for tips on cleaning windows and doors. Fill flower boxes or containers with boldlycolored plants to accent your front door. If you’ve painted your door red, plant red and white or red and purple flowers to create a designer look. Or if you’re keen on green doors, try purple or orange flowers for contrast.
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4 • Fall Home Improvement • Action Reporter Media • October 2014
backyard projects Don’t skip these six backyard projects this fall A little bit of TLC can go a long way when caring for your yard this fall. Homeowners can get ready for the spring and summer seasons by planting bulbs as the weather cools down.
Brandpoint Media When it comes to caring for your yard, maintenance is crucial - especially during the fall when it needs to recover from the wear and tear of summer and prepare for winter’s harsh conditions. Knowing what your lawn and garden needs from season to season not only makes it easier for you to stay organized with your list of backyard to-do’s, but it also allows you to identify and treat any problems before they become bigger issues down the road. Get your lawn and garden back in shape and ready for the coming season by completing these fall backyard projects.
1
Patch and seed
Extreme summer weather conditions like heat, excess rainfall and drought can lead to diseased or dead patches of grass throughout your yard. If you notice an affected area while inspecting your lawn,
treat the problem area immediately and then reseed it. This will nourish grass, plus help it establish strong roots needed for growth in the spring.
2
Plant bulbs
Give your spring garden a head start by planting bulbs 5 to 8 inches deep, depending on the size, with the pointy end up. You can also plant bulbs in clusters. However, since bulbs can be hard to tell apart, be sure to keep the labels intact until they are planted.
3
Remove leaves and small debris
Leaves, small twigs and light dirt can quickly accumulate in your yard during the fall and if not removed, can cause soil compaction and make your yard look messy. For a quick cleanup solution, use a leaf blower to easily move debris from your lawn, driveway or patio. Opt for a blower like Troy-Bilt’s new Jet
leaf blower that achieves a perfect balance of speed and volume with its mixed-flow fan design, helping you clear your yard efficiently and effectively. Jet also has an optimal weight balance, so the blower is stable and easy to control. When removing leaves, make sure they are dry and wind is at a bare minimum to ensure an easy removal process.
4
Compost
Fall isn’t too late to start a compost pile as it takes six months to one year to develop into rich soil you can use in your garden. Keep in mind, compost decomposition slows down during the cooler months, which is why it is important to retain heat needed for decomposition by refraining from turning your compost pile.
5
Prune
Pruning is considered the best preventive maintenance for your trees
and shrubs, particularly in the fall and late dormant season. Look to prune diseased or dying branches, but be sure not to remove unreasonably large branches. This leaves exposed stubs that can potentially cause health problems.
6
Weed
Though a year-round yard task, it’s extremely important to pull as many weeds as possible in the fall. As cooler temperatures set in, weeds start to store food in their roots for the winter. Prevent weed regrowth by pulling or digging weeds out of the ground with a weeding blade or use a homemade weed control solution, such as a combination of vinegar, water and dish soap. For more lawn and garden tips, backyard project ideas and information about the Jet leaf blower, visit troybilt.com.
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Fall Home Improvement • Action Reporter Media • October 2014 • 5
Prepare your windows and doors for winter &
Installing snap-in blinds or shades
save energy
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Properly installed and maintained windows and doors can help keep your home more comfortable year-round. Save on heating costs by preparing your windows and doors for winter with these tips:
Clear sills and moving parts of dirt and debris Debris like sand, dirt or leaves can get caught in windowsills and moving parts of windows or doors. Clean these areas with a dry paintbrush to create a tighter seal and enhance window and door performance.
Check weather stripping Re-attach or replace missing or worn weather stripping around windows and doors. Loose weather stripping can let cold air in during the winter and out in the summer, reducing energy efficiency.
Visit Pella Windows and Doors on Pinterest for design inspiration and Pella.com/news to connect with a Pella representative for tips on caring for your windows and doors, or choosing new replacements.
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6 • Fall Home Improvement • Action Reporter Media • October 2014
5 common weatherization
myths
busted ...
Myth 1: Weatherizing requires a handyman
By Brandpoint Media Last winter’s visit from the polar vortex made for bone-chilling blizzards and teeth-chattering temperatures. If this year is anything like the last, drafty homes and high thermostat settings will accompany the freezing weather. Unfortunately, many homeowners get cold feet when it comes to weatherizing their homes, citing various reasons why they don’t just get it done. Here are five common weatherizing myths you should overcome to help you get ready this winter:
Decor continued from page 2 invention that would revolutionize plumbing and allow homeowners to get warm water at the sink. “One-bowl farmhouse sinks are very popular now, especially with the wide variety of faucets and finishes there are to choose from,” says Gruszynske.
1940s With World War II ending, the 1940s brought a need for housing that was met with the mass production of simple structures, like Cape Cods. These homes were small, so interiors were kept uncluttered to maximize the space. Kitchen design was all about being practical - white cabinets helped homemakers spot dirt, while Linoleum flooring and metal countertops were durable and easy to clean. “Breakfast bars with stools are the “in thing” now especially for families on the go. Dining tables are still a must, though, so that larger groups and families can all be in one spot, even if on occasion,” says Gruszynske. “Double ovens and cooktops are also popular picks for today’s customers as it puts a vintage feel on a modern amenity. We have a number of designers on staff to help visualize a new, updated kitchen. Our computer program allows us to draw and move items and give scale 3d renderings that can help our customers (and potential customers) visualize their project before it is started.”
Hiring a professional to weatherize isn’t necessary. Many easy-to-use weatherization products are available that require minimal - if any - tools, and can be installed in just a weekend.
Myth 2: Weatherizing isn’t affordable Many do-it-yourself weatherizing products are easy on your wallet. Actually, homeowners can potentially save hundreds of dollars per As the popularity of television sets increased, Hollywood glamour became a big style inspiration. In the late 1940s, decor went from down-to-earth to over-the-top lavish, like the sets of movies featuring starlets Rita Hayworth and Ingrid Bergman, and homes began incorporating more lush furniture and bold colors with shiny silver, gold and copper accents.
1950s The 1950s marked an era that embraced the charm and fulfillment of the American Dream - think “Leave it to Beaver” and “I Love Lucy.” This decade spawned ranch-style floor plans, with wood paneling, brick fireplaces and maple furniture. Just as desired materials changed with the seasons years ago, the same holds true today. “Must haves for many customers include not only the right color but also the right type of product. The largest change in trend is the movement to stone countertops compared to years ago when laminate was “the way to go,” says Gruszynske. According to Houzz, the colors of the 1950s epitomized the optimism of the decade and included pinks, mint greens, turquoise and creamy yellows - in both the home and the car. One room that showcased the joy of the era was the bathroom and the pastel pink sinks, toilets and tubs that came along with it. “The most beneficial updates for kitchens and baths now are the cabinetry, countertops, hardware and sinks. Granite countertops, with a modern, clean line are top picks in a bath
year on their heating (and cooling) costs by properly air sealing their homes and keeping thermostat temperatures low.
Myth 3: Weatherize when it’s cold
It’s never too early to weatherize, especially as you prepare for Old Man Winter. For best results, take a top-down approach: Start with the attic, winterize windows, close gaps around and under doors, and hit the walls to tackle hidden sources of energy loss. Be sure to check your home’s nooks and crannies, too.
Myth 4: Being cold is just a part of winter Being cold inside your home may be a sign your house isn’t weatherized properly. One common place to feel drafts is by doors, especially as cracks and gaps can let cold air in and warm air out. Look for insulating seals to stop leaks, like the Triple Draft Seal from Duck brand. A no-nails-needed door bottom, the or kitchen remodel. Also, dark finishes have become the ‘hot item,” says Gruszynske. The 50s also introduced electric refrigerators, which were more efficient and streamlined than their predecessors - not to mention cheaper. Like most items, they were now available in colored finishes, enabling homeowners to customize their kitchen’s decor.
1960s Common elements of the “Mad Men” era included bold geometric patterns, in both upholstery and wall coverings, along with cutvelvet fabrics and modular furniture. Colors from this decade were rich, deep, psychedelic hues, such as acid orange and neon pink. In the kitchen, women found they had better things to do than stand over a hot stove and microwaves became a permanent fixture in homes across America. Women became hooked on the easy, processed foods promoted by ad execs like Don Draper. Why make a sauce when canned soup would work perfectly? Who needs fresh veggies when they already come frozen and seasoned? The 1960s were all about experimentation and instant gratification.
Triple Draft Seal slides on to prevent drafts from under the door and offers three layers of draft protection: an inner seal helps retain room temperature, an outer seal blocks drafts and the bottom fins help keep out moisture and water.
Myth 5: Windows and doors are my only problem Windows and doors are prime spots for energy loss, accounting for most air leaks and bitter drafts entering your home, but behind-the-scenes sources also should be addressed. Something as simple as insulating electrical outlets and switch plates on exterior walls can create a buffer between the outdoor air and your home’s inside. To prevent drafts even further, don’t forget to check the attic. Attic access openings or pull-down stairs are often overlooked and are actually a big source of energy loss. To combat drafts, use an insulating attic seal, like the patented Attic Stairway Cover from Duck brand. It’s flexible, lightweight, easy to install and repositionable for attic access. Don’t let these common misconceptions scare you. As it turns out, weatherizing can be an affordable and easy do-it-yourself project. For tips and more information, visit DuckBrand.com/HomeSmart.
depth to living spaces. Geometric shapes and bright colors are also reappearing in home accents and furniture, just paired with neutrals for a more contemporary look. With urban areas gaining in popularity, the smaller kitchens of the past are making a comeback - only this time they’re packed with top-of-the-line equipment including high-speed ovens, induction cooktops, builtin flat screen TVs and charging stations. Additionally, kitchen fixtures are getting smarter. The MotionSense pulldown kitchen faucets from Moen add hands-free technology to the sink; making tasks like washing dishes, filling a glass of water and preparing the evening meal easier. MotionSense utilizes advanced sensors to detect movement in two sensing zones, setting water flow in motion, as if on command. It’s like having a second set of hands in the kitchen - perfect for when yours are too full or too dirty to turn on the faucet.
Today’s home
“A kitchen remodel does not need to “break the bank.” For the customers who are not wanting to go through the entire process, a new countertop, sink and hardware are pretty quick fixes. Also, if a customer considers granite or quartz, this is a large step up,” says Gruszynske.
Fast forward to 2014, where decade-old design elements and materials that were once the height of fashion have reappeared in new and innovative ways. When it comes to decorating today’s homes, wallpaper is coming back to make a statement, adding texture and
While it’s fun to go back and look at decor trends and innovations from the past, it’s important to remember how they have shaped our current style. Who knows, maybe our idea of contemporary today, will be a future generation’s idea of traditional.
Fall Home Improvement • Action Reporter Media • October 2014 • 7
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