hoMe
Spring
iMproVeMent
Best on the Block:
how to create curb appeal
page 2
prepping tips
spring outdoor projects page 6
four tips
achieving a healthy lawn page 8
SPRING 2014
Best on the block:
How to create curb appeal (BPT) - Spring is in the air, so it’s time to give your home an exterior makeover and add curb appeal. A few simple tricks can help boost your home’s profile, and ensure visitors get a good first impression when they arrive on your doorstep.
Make a statement with your front door
Your front door is one of the first things people notice about your home. Is your door drab, drafty or just plain past its prime? Make a bold statement and improve your home’s energy efficiency with a new Energy Star-qualified front door. Consider options with decorative glass accents and stunning sidelights to add more natural light while maintaining a sense of style and privacy. “Pella entry doors feature stylish op-
Winnebago County Solid Waste Container Rental & Lease Program Winnebago County Solid Waste offers a full service program of container rentals and a competitive container lease program for both commercial and residential customers.
tions in a variety of popular materials from wood to fiberglass and steel options, and the real beauty is in their performance,” says Kathy Krafka Harkema of Pella Windows and Doors. “When replacing your old front door, choose from one that accents your home’s style, with high-performance features that help keep out air and water, and lowmaintenance convenience like durable prefinished options with coordinating trim.”
Accessorize with new hardware
Replace your front door hardware for a quick, easy facelift. Choose hardware finishes consistent with those of your home’s light fixtures, mailbox and house numbers to maintain a polished, cohesive look. You’ll be surprised what a
NOTICE TO WINNEBAGO COUNTY RESIDENTS Winnebago County Household Hazardous Material Facility
ACCEPTABLE MATERIALS
Available Rental Sizes Include: 6 Cubic Yard
Automotive
Garden & Lawn Care
Gasoline, Fuel Additives, Starter Fluids, Transmission Fluids, Brake Fluid
Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides, Poisons, Weed Killer
Cleaners
Dimensions: Approximately 6 ft. wide by 5 ft. high
Miscellaneous
Oil & Lead Based Paint, Grease & Rust Solvents, Paint Turpentine, Varnish, Stains, Solvents, Thinners/ Strippers/ Removers, Adhesives, Wood, Kerosene, Drain and Oven Cleaners, Pool Chemicals, Preservatives, Household Batteries, Mercury, Spray Paint Other Cleaners and Polishes
8 Cubic Yard
NON-ACCEPTABLE MATERIALS
Dimensions: Approximately 7 ft. wide by 6 ft. high
*Fluorescent Bulbs, *Latex Paint, Explosives, Infectious Medical Wastes, *Asbestos, *Antifreeze, *Propane, *Auto Batteries, *Used Oil, Radioactive Materials, Business Materials, * Electronics
20 Cubic Yard
Dimensions: Approximately 8 ft. wide by 20 ft. long by 5 ft. high
*Call the Winnebago County Landfill at 232-1800 regarding disposal. Charges may apply to some items.
2014 Schedule - No Appointment Needed
30 Cubic Yard
HOURS: 9am-12 Noon April - 23, 26 May - 7, 10, 21 • June - 4, 7, 18, 21 • July - 2, 16, 19, 30 Aug - 2, 13, 16, 27 • Sept - 10, 13, 24, 27 • Oct - 8, 11, 22, 25
Dimensions: Approximately 8 ft. wide by 20 ft. long by 6.5 ft. high For more information please call:
Winnebago County Solid Waste
WI-5001780635
(920) 232-1850 • (920) 727-2896 • Outside the Fox Valley 1-866-424-1850 105 W. County Road Y • Oshkosh, WI 54901
SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT • APRIL 20, 2014
www.co.winnebago.wi.us/solid-waste Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/WinnebagoCountySolidWaste
2
OSHKOSH NORTHWESTERN
difference new hardware on your front door can make in creating a positive look and feel.
Refresh exterior and trim colors
Now’s also time to add a new storm door to help keep out the elements, or to add a refreshing coat of paint on your existing exterior doors for a fresh look. For a dramatic change, repaint your home’s exterior. You can also change trim color to refresh your home’s exterior impact. When updating trim, choose color schemes that match your home’s primary exterior color, or complement it with a fresh twist.
IT’S ABOUT
Accent with lighting
For night-time curb appeal and safety, add a row of exterior accent lighting to illuminate a walking path with groundinsert solar lights. Or consider solar spotlights to bring out landscaping or architectural focal points. Install new matching light fixtures outside your front door, garage door or patio door to create an inviting feel and provide welllit doorways to greet you and visiting neighbors and guests.
Create points of interest with plants
Add pops of color by arranging potted plants around your front door, or on a
EXPLORING POSSIBILITIES
porch or deck. Incorporate planters or container gardens of varied sizes, shapes and colors to add visual interest. Also, planting flowerbeds along driveways and walkways gives your home a softer, more inviting feel. For more curb appeal inspiration, visit Pella Windows and Doors on Houzz, on Pinterest.com/pellawindows or to connect with a Pella representative to discuss your home improvement project visit Pella.com/News.
BUYING A HOUSE? GET $ 500 OFF CLOSING COSTS *
Whether you’re looking to own your first home, buy a new home or build your dream home, AnchorBank can help make it happen. With local decision making and servicing, we simplify the borrowing process and support your efforts every step of the way. For a limited time, get $500 off closing costs when you buy a home before June 30, 2014.* Explore your options at anchorbank.com to find a rate and term that’s right for you.
ShopDonateVolunteer *Open to the Public* SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT is published by The Oshkosh Northwestern. Contents of the section are for The Northwestern. 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 The Oshkosh Northwestern. For information, contact Karen Befus at 920-426-6701 or email kbefus@thenorthwestern.com. General Manager Advertising Manager Karen Befus Office Manager Lori Stubbe Graphic Designer Marie Rayome-Gill
OSHKOSH NORTHWESTERN
Ask about our FREE pick up service! Re-Store Hours Monday-Friday
10am-6pm
Saturday
9am-5pm
Sunday
11am-3pm
Donation Hours end one hour before closing.
Appleton
Darboy: 997-3903, Fox River Mall: 997-3901 Northland Ave: 997-3909
Menasha
997-3907
Neenah
997-3906
Oshkosh
Koeller St: 303-4900, Washington Ave: 303-4901
Winneconne 582-4345
1640 S. Koeller St. Oshkosh, WI 54902 (920) 230-3535 www.habitatoshkosh.org/home-store
*This ad or code must be presented at time of application to receive $500 off closing costs on any new AnchorBank residential mortgage. Refinances of existing mortgages do not qualify. Not valid with any other offers. Not valid on Refinance Express. To receive the $500 off closing cost you must have an AnchorBank checking account with direct deposit and auto-pay for the loan. Offer expires 6/30/14. Coupon code 3114. ©2014 AnchorBank, fsb. AnchorBank is a service mark of Anchor BanCorp Wisconsin Inc. WI-5001781113
WI-5001763030
3
APRIL 20, 2014 • SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT
carpet, as hard surface flooring gained in popularity. Then, people began to miss the softness and warmth of carpet. Carpet absorbs sound, making homes quieter, and traps dust at the base of the carpet fibers so that dust doesn’t circulate in the room air.- The soft fibers give us a reason to put carpet down again.” She is also seeing increased interest in “mixed-media” carpet styles - with hi-lustre and low-lustre yarns used in the same carpet. Additionally, patterns are being featured on top of texture, giving a multi-dimensional appearance to flooring. Not only stylish, carpet is healthy, too. People with allergies or other sensitivities can choose carpet as a way to improve indoor air quality. A recent study supports previous findings that carpet, when effectively cleaned, traps allergens and other particles, resulting in less dust, dander and airborne contaminants escaping into the air. For more information, visit the Carpet and Rug Institute at www.carpet-rug.org.
From floor to fixtures:
Top spring home decor trends add style and personality
(BPT) - Spring is in the air, which means it’s time to refresh your indoor spaces to reflect the energy and optimism of the season. The top home decor trends of spring 2014 take a fresh approach to traditional design elements to create an aesthetic that is fresh and full of life. Best yet, the trends are easily accessible, so anyone can update their space with a few simple tips.
Carpet
More homeowners are seeking the beauty, comfort and safety that carpet provides, making it a top flooring trend for spring 2014 and beyond. What types of carpet are popular?“New soft fibers,” says Vickie Gilstrap, director of design services for The Dixie Group, a top U.S. carpet manufacturer. “Consumers went away from wall-to-wall
Color
Thoughtful use of color in home design is a top trend for 2014. “Colors are getting warmer,” notes Gilstrap. “Taupe is the bridge color taking us from gray to browner tones. Warm pinks are returning, as well as warmer greens like moss and olive - even apple.” Keep in mind adding personality to a space through use of warm color doesn’t necessarily require a complete interior overhaul. Consider incorporating spring colors using accent pieces. It’s easy to switch up pillows, throws or artwork without investing a lot of time or money. Plus it’s a fun way to update the personality of your favorite spaces every season.
Texture and pattern
This spring, more homeowners are using textures and patterns to make a visual statement through design. Strategic
TURN WINDOW REPLACEMENT INTO HOME IMPROVEMENT.
WI-5001780714
OSHKOSH 235-3080 1601 BOWEN ST.
Lighting plays an important twopronged role: it makes a space functional and also helps define its design aesthetic. Adjusting the task lighting within a room can instantly make the space more livable and highlight the design motif. Another easy lighting update is purchasing new lamps or simply adding new shades to existing lamps - a great way to refresh a space with minimal cost. Keep in mind, when selecting fixtures, there’s no longer a need to avoid gold tones. “Gold is coming back- we are seeing more gold and copper and less silver,” says Gilstrap. Want to really redefine your home’s lighting? Ornamental lighting is big this year with designers thinking outside the box when it comes to how and where these fixtures can be used. For example, dramatic chandeliers are no longer reserved for formal spaces such as the dining room or foyer. This spring, you can add a touch of elegance to any space by adding a stylish chandelier, plus it doesn’t take up much design real estate space. Bedrooms, basements and bars are just a few unique areas where chandeliers can be featured.
Servicing All Brands!
#1 Residential and Commercial Heating and Cooling Contractor
in Oshkosh
Black Haak Heating, Inc
WAUPACA 715-258-8101 HWY 22 & 54
Call Today 920-757-9990 | www.blackhaak.com
“Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2013 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved.
SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT • APRIL 20, 2014
Lighting
Your trusted A/C service and repair professionals since 1956
Your home is a work in progress. Andersen® 400 Series windows and doors make improving your home quick and easy, with a wide range of replacement styles, options and accessories to complement any home. Enjoy instant comfort, plus energy savings and long-lasting beauty with virtually no maintenance. We make replacement solutions happen.
400 SERIES
use of texture and patterns can highlight certain interior spaces, manipulate the light within the room and influence scale. Blending both adds visual interest and helps homeowners create a unique space to call their own. “Layering of pattern and texture - in floors, walls, upholstery, window treatments - gives a more individualized feel,” says Gilstrap. Scared of mixing patterns and textures? She suggests placing patterns on stairs or in hallways. If big and bold patterns aren’t your taste, consider sticking to small, neutral patterns that can be a subtle way to add visual interest and design complexity to interior spaces.
WI-5001780707
4
OSHKOSH NORTHWESTERN
Now’s the time to spring into DIY action with home improvement projects
Turning Your Ideas into Reality
custom design
New Construction
remodeling additions
Residential & Commercial
Home Up-dates
Employee Owned
(BPT) - It’s time to start dreaming of a spring home makeover. Sources of design inspiration, like Pinterest, are plentiful and can help make your home decor and renovation projects easy and fun. In fact, now is the season to gather ideas and get started.
Warm up to color
Simple sampling
Once you have a sample size of your perfect shade of paint, it’s time to test your hunch. Apply the sample paint on several walls. This will help you envision the color’s look in various light sources, both natural and artificial. Be sure to check the painted wall at different times of the day - giving you a truer view of the end results. If you prefer, you can paint large white poster boards with your sample paint and move them around the room to verify your vision. When testing multiple colors, avoid painting sample strips too close together as this might distort the appearance of the color. When you’re happy with a color selection, head to a local retailer to purchase the paint tinted in the quantities you need.
Size up your projects
The fun doesn’t have to stop with the walls. Dutch Boy Platinum color samples can also work for smaller interior projects because the sample
OSHKOSH NORTHWESTERN
www.portsidebuilders.com
contains a premium paint. Try stenciling your favorite inspirational sayings or words of wisdom on your living room or office area walls. Another quick project is to use the samples to paint the trim on picture frames or mirrors to coordinate with your newly painted room.
Before
WI-5001780677
Kitchen Remodel
After
www.portsidebuilders.com
Add some final touches
O
Remodeling 920.426.1544 or 920.727.4874
Spring Cleaning Sale!
After you plan your painting projects, it’s important to prepare for the small details and finishing touches that help bring everything together. Break out the hot glue gun, some of your favorite springtime silk flowers and bright ribbons to make a whimsical wreath for the entrance to your home. When April showers bring May flowers, you will already have the perfect entryway accessory to welcome in the new season - and guests. Whether entertaining friends and family or simply relaxing alone with a good book, having an outdoor oasis is crucial to enjoying warmer days and nights. To give your patio some pizzazz, why not create some decorative, weather-proof pillows or cushions? Utilize durable, all-weather fabrics in complementary hues and patterns to achieve the lounge-worthy look you’re craving. This small sewing project will add a level of comfort and creativity to an otherwise boring patio set. As the end of winter is upon us, it’s time to plan for spring home improvement plans. By conjuring up some great ideas for the upcoming season now, you’ll have more time to enjoy the beauty of the warmer months ahead.
We’re cleaning house and you save with unbelievable prices! Ceiling Fans Bath lights Chandeliers Outdoor lights
Galaxy Lighting “The Brightest Spot in Town!” A Division of Ellison Electric Supply
165 W. Division Street ph. (920) 922-1700 Mon, Wed, Fri 8-5
5
Fond du Lac, WI 54935
www.galaxylightingfdl.com
fax (920) 921-2386 Tues & Thurs 9-6
WI-5001780641
A fresh coat of paint is an inexpensive way to transform a tired look into a vibrant vision. Choosing the perfect shade is often the most time consuming and nerve-wracking part of the process. Knowing this, paint manufacturers are coming to the rescue and providing many new tools to help give you the color confidence you need. For example, pick up small-size paint samples, like Platinum Color Samples from Dutch Boy, tinted in your favorite shades and apply directly to the walls you’re interested in painting. These color paint samples help you visualize how the entire space will look before investing time and money on a large painting project. Plus, the Dutch Boy color samples are available in Dutch Boy’s highest-quality interior paint so you can test its best paint and perfect color together.
APRIL 20, 2014 • SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT
prepping tips for spring outdoor projects (BPT) - Soon, winter will be winding down and homeowners will start planning - and prepping for - a variety of outdoor projects for spring. From cleaning, repairing or replacing decks, to creating raised beds for veggies and flowers, now is the time to start gearing up for those spring projects.
cleaning up
Start with spring cleaning existing
structures. Take a weekend to clean decks, gazebos and pergolas of dirt, debris, mold and mildew. For structures made of naturally durable Western Red Cedar, a broom, garden sprayer and hose, plus a little bleach are all you need. Sweep winter debris such as twigs and leaves from decks, taking care to clean between planks on horizontal surfaces. This facilitates airflow and drainage, and can help prevent a buildup of moisture when spring showers arrive. Next, use a garden sprayer to apply a-mild oxygen bleach solution to kill mold and mildew. Be sure to leave the bleach solution on the wood surface for approximately 30 minutes, and then rinse with water. Never use a pressure washer as it can damage the wood. -
Maintenance and repair
Carefully inspect outdoor structures for wear and tear. While Western Red Cedar contains natural preservatives that make the wood durable, all outdoor structures require annual care, including
MIDWEST REAL ESTATE
Wyldewood Condos Hunters Ridge Condos • Barrier Free Floor Plans • Open Spacious Design • Many Amenities • Starting At $189,900
• Several Floor Plans • With or Without Basements • Many Amenities • Starting At $149,900
Model Open Sat-Sun 11-1 West on Witzel, North on Oakwood Road to Wyldewood Drive (920) 232-0400
Model Open Sat-Sun 1:30-3:30 Washburn south past Outlet Mall, Right on Waukau to Elk Ridge Drive (920) 230-3185
those made of pressure-treated lumber or composites. Check planks, beams and boards for cracking, warping or rough spots and repair accordingly. Replace damaged wood, and be sure to examine hardware to ensure it’s working properly and free of rust.
new projects
If you’ve always dreamed about lounging on a lovely deck on a summer afternoon, or savoring a spring morning beneath the shade of a decorative pergola, now’s the time to start planning the project. A great deck is the showpiece of an inspired backyard, and spring is a prime time to add one. To ensure your deck affords you the most value and enjoyment, consider using an online deck planner to help you envision your deck before you begin building. As gardening grows in popularity, you might consider adding raised planting beds to your landscaping. Raised beds not only make caring for and harvesting your garden easier - no bending required - they can also function as a decorative enhancement to your outdoor environment. The material you choose will influence the longevity, beauty and enjoyment of your structure, so carefully consider your options before deciding. “Many homeowners choose Western Red Cedar for its beauty and natural durability,” says Paul Mackie, western area manager, Western Red Cedar Lumber Association, or “Mr. Cedar” as he is known in the industry. “It has a deep, rich luster that other woods and man-
Visit us soon to tour our model centers & ask our Sales Associates for details! Spring Clearance Prices on Select Homes
“Over 40 Years Experience” ““Call C ll ll us today d ffor a ffree estimate” i ” • Replacement Glass • Shower Doors • Windows & Doors • Mirrors
We cooperate with local Real Estate Associates Midwest Real Estate, Inc. Office (920) 420-2251
www.mwdevelopment.com Equal Housing Opportunity
3530 Omni Dr., Oshkosh, WI www.omnigp.com • 920-233-3333 • fax 920-236-2407
Building Quality Homes for over 57 Years
WI-5001780693
SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT • APRIL 20, 2014
made materials just can’t match. Plus, it’s a greener choice because it’s renewable and recyclable - unlike composites - and doesn’t require chemical treatment as non-durable wood species do. It’s naturally rot and insect resistant, and you can stain it or leave it natural, depending on your preference.” The green qualities and durability of Western Red Cedar make it a great choice for virtually any outdoor structure - including those popular wooden playsets that begin appearing like wildflowers in backyards across the country every spring. Whatever project you’re dreaming of this spring - from building a new deck, pergola, or planting beds to refurbishing an existing outdoor structure or playset careful planning, cleaning, maintenance and the right materials can ensure your project adds value and beauty to your home environment.
6
OSHKOSH NORTHWESTERN
Six hot home design trends for spring 2014
(BPT) - Does the change of seasons have you itching to refresh a tired, lackluster room? Or maybe you’re looking for some small ways to make a big impact on your home’s style? Whatever the case, here are some of this season’s most buzzed-about trends and how you can incorporate them into your next project. • Wood is the new neutral. This season’s strong trend toward wood textures pairs the warmth, richness and texture of real wood with limitless design flexibility. Think wood-textured textiles, tree-printed wallpapers and embossed soaps that look like wood. Installing engineered wood ceilings and wainscoting can bring the unique look of reclaimed wood into any environment - an easy do-it-yourself project with striking results. • Ode to the elements. Mother Nature is inspiring design in a big way this year and homeowners are finding unique ways to incorporate rocks, minerals and other natural elements into their home’s design. Try replacing a common-place item like an alarm clock with one encased within a multi-colored agate. Bring this look to the kitchen with a stainless steel backsplash, or swap out run-of-the-mill hardware with mineral-inspired drawer pulls and knobs.• Shore thing. Homeowners, inspired by the calm, care-free attitude of coastal living are all about bringing the beach inside this season. Beach-inspired design elements are popping up
throughout the home. Weathered and white-washed wood ceilings are a subtle but stunning ontrend addition - especially when finished with interior accents like decorative shells, drift wood furniture and marine-themed prints. • Contrast in texture. Step aside Pantone, texture is spring’s hottest new color. Homeowners are putting down their paintbrushes and adding interest with texture through high-gloss finishes, metallics, sequins and mirrors. A textured tile wall brings visual and tactile interest, especially when paired with contrasting high-gloss lacquer or low-gloss matte accessories. • Visual punch. Reawaken the senses this spring by incorporating a striking visual element to the home. Multi-dimensional surface treatments in pearl, metallic and gold/silver combinations add panache as a coating used for hardwood, or can be applied to wallpaper, furniture or decorative accessories. And don’t forget to look up - coffered ceilings bring a striking je ne sais quoi to any room. • Manipulated metals. The versatility of manipulated metal makes it a great addition to any style home - from hand-crafted artisan to contemporary high gloss. Copper, pewter and nickel are getting in on the action and can be styled in a variety of ways, including hammered metal sink basins, tinlook ceiling tiles, antiqued copper light fixtures and brushed stainless steel cabinet hardware.
ADD DD BEAUTY E EAU AUTY AU TY, CO OMFORT MFORT MFOR MF ORT OR T, CONTROL ONTR ON TROL TR OL AND AND VAL ALUE UE TO TO YO YOUR UR BUSINESS USINES US USIN INESS ESS HO OME ME WIT W WITH ITH IT H ALUMIN LUM L LUMINUM UMIN UM INUM IN UM O OR R FA ABRIC ABR BRIC BR IC AWNIN WNINGS WNINGS INGS
Coffered ceilings are an easy way to add a visual element to the home.
427 N. Main St., Oshkosh • 920-236-3340 1919 E. Calumet St., Appleton • 920-739-9481 780 Greentree Mall, Berlin • 920-361-0424
Open 7 Days a Week Open til 8:00 pm Weekdays Your neighbor may not have the tools you need – but we will! Rototillers Sod Cutters Dethatchers Rug Cleaners Plumbing snakes Floor sanders Jack hammers Posthole diggers Lawn mowers Plus 100’s of more items to make your home improvement project a success
OR
GIVE
THE GIFT THAT SHOWS COMMON SENSE AND ADDS VALUE, NO MATTER THE SEASON! • Protection – keep snow and ice from piling up by the door • Retractable awnings provide cool shade from the summer sun • Gift certificates available
$250.00 off a retractable awning
Delivery Available We are here to help you!
Free Estimates • 733-4701 WI-5001780702
Serving the area since 1922
OSHKOSH NORTHWESTERN
3052 W. Elberg Ave. Appleton
WI-5001780764
7
APRIL 20, 2014 • SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT
Four tips for achieving a healthy lawn on a budget (BPT) - As spring rolls around, it’s time to start thinking about yard maintenance. If your budget is tight, you might be tempted to let the lawn care slide, but maintaining a great lawn doesn’t need to be expensive - and the reward for just a small investment is a beautiful, environmentally friendly setting for outdoor activities of many kinds. If you’re looking to ensure a healthy natural lawn on a budget, consider these four easy tips: 1. Water as needed. On average, a lawn needs about one inch of water per week, from rainfall or irrigation. This will soak the soil to a depth of four to six inches, putting water deep into your lawn’s root system. Letting the lawn dry out completely between waterings will encourage the grass to grow stronger, deeper roots as it searches for water deeper in the soil. For best results, water in the early morning when there is less wind and heat. Put a rain gauge on your porch to measure rainfall; if you receive one inch of rain in a week, skip the watering and save your irrigation money that week. 2. Fertilize naturally. Don’t break your
your grass needs a drink. If the blade goes in easily, you don’t need to water yet. • Use mason jars, vinegar and baking soda. Good soil is critical to a healthy lawn, and most turfgrasses prefer soil with a neutral pH (neither acidic nor alkaline). For a DIY pH test, pull out a pair of pint mason jars. Fill each jar about half way full with soil samples taken from several different locations around your yard. Be sure to remove rocks and other debris from your samples. Add a half-cup of vinegar to the first jar. If the mixture fizzes, your soil is highly alkaline and you don’t need to test the other jar. If you get no reaction, continue the test by adding a half-cup of water to the soil in the second jar. Mix well and then add a half-cup of baking soda to the slurry. If this mixture fizzes, the soil is very acidic. Overly acidic soil can be amended with lime, while alkaline soil can be amended with sulfur. • Dish soap for the grubs. As your lawn starts its spring growth, watch for brown patches that never turn green. Dead patches could be caused by grubs
back trying to bag lawn clippings. If you mow frequently (about once a week during the growing season) and don’t remove too much height, you can leave the grass clippings on the lawn. The clippings will serve as a natural fertilizer. They contain the same nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium as commercial fertilizer - and they’re free. 3. Use common household items. Take advantage of items already at your fingertips to keep your lawn in tip-top shape. For example: • Ready the ruler. Mowing your grass to the right height will help you create a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant lawn. Wait until your grass is three inches tall before mowing, and then cut it to two inches in height. By only trimming one-third of the blade length, you will avoid stressing the grass while leaving enough leaf to protect the roots from the sun. • Let a screwdriver be your guide. To see if your lawn needs to be watered, test for moisture by pushing a screwdriver into the ground. If it’s difficult to push the screwdriver in, the soil is dry and
feeding on the roots in the fall. To determine whether grubs are indeed the problem, dig up square-foot sections of sod to a depth of about two inches in several areas in your yard. Next, examine the soil beneath your grass for short, fat, whitish C-shaped worms. If you find 10 or more grubs per square foot you should treat your lawn. To treat 1,000 square feet of grass, dilute two tablespoons of liquid dish soap in a gallon of water and spray it on the lawn, preferably immediately after a rainfall. This will cause the grubs to come to the surface, where you can collect them if the birds don’t do the job for you. Repeat the treatment weekly until the grubs stop surfacing. 4. Maintain your mower. Take 30 minutes to service your lawn mower at the beginning of the season. Changing the oil, cleaning or replacing the spark plug and changing the filters once a year will help you avoid repair bills down the road. Also sharpen the mower blade if needed. A dull blade will tear the grass rather than cutting it, which will stress the lawn and leave it vulnerable to disease.
Whether you’re buying a new home or looking to refinance your existing mortgage, be sure to check out Capital Credit Union. With low closing costs, a wide array of mortgage choices and several payment options, you’re sure to find the financing that best fits your needs!
For more information call 237-3182 (toll free) 866-731-3195 or visit capitalcu.com
WI-5001760408
SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT • APRIL 20, 2014
8
OSHKOSH NORTHWESTERN