Spring Home Improvement 2019 by The Greeneville Sun

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO

THE GREENEVILLE SUN 2019 EDITION

HOME INFESTATIONS Getting Bugged By Home-Invading Insects? Fight Back

WATER FALLS?

PAINT JOBS

A Water Feature Might Be What Your Landscape Needs

Should You DIY Your Paint Job Or Hire A Pro?

THE GREENEVILLE SUN HOME IMPROVEMENT EDITION

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Saturday, April 27, 2019

Home Improvement 2019 A Helping Hand For Home Improvement

t no time of year does the desire to spiﬀ up the old home-place, beautify the grounds, or even look around for an entirely new and better habitation influence the American mind more strongly than in the spring. It is the pleasure of us at The Greeneville Sun, along with a slate of partnering advertisers, to bring you our annual look at home improvement trends, possibilities and potentials. It’s our hope that the material published here will give you an idea of two you can apply to your own home and life. And we hope you’ll call on those who advertise here when it is time to find a contractor, purchase the right building supplies, get homeowner insurance, plant that garden, purchase quality lighting for your home ... We are blessed in Northeast Tennessee to live in beautiful surroundings. For us to seek to maintain our own homes and lands in harmony with that beauty is not only the right thing to do, but a privilege. We hope you’ll find some inspirations, tools and helpers here to make your own corner of the world a little better place to be.

Right Tools, Right Tactics Can Avert Injuries For DIYers

ore than 18,000 Americans die every year from injuries that take place in the home, and making repairs around the house can contribute to accident risk. Falls, electrical shocks, broken glass, carpentry tools, and carrying overly heavy loads repeatedly result in injury, say experts. Recognizing these potential hazards and always employing safe tactics can help keep DIYers stay healthy. • Ladder safety: A fall from even a few feet can cause severe injuries and even death. Ladders should always be put on a level, stable surface. Individuals should not climb higher than the second rung on a step ladder or the third rung on an extension ladder. • Tools: Every tool has the potential to cause injury. This injury risk increases when tools are not used properly. Before a tool is used, it’s important to read the instructions. • Protective gloves. Gloves can help protect against burns, electrocution, slippery grip, and even deep cuts or finger amputation when using sharp tools. Gloves also are essential when handling broken glass. • Power tools: Power tools have momentum and torque behind them to

Proper tools and organization go a long way toward DIY safety.

make fast work of various jobs. If using power tools, DIYers should ensure they are the right tools for the job, not something that is handy or a quick fix. Power tools should only be used if a person can devote attention to the task and stay focused. That means never consuming alcohol, drugs or medications that can impair function when using power tools. • Electricity: An electric shock occurs when a person is exposed to a source of electricity and the charge runs through the body. It can cause burns, cardiac arrest, changes to heartbeat, and even neurological injuries, according to the Mayo Clinic. DIYers should take precautions anytime they are working with electricity, including turning oﬀ the supply of electricity to the outlet or fixture being worked on. • Heavy loads: It is important to exercise caution when moving around heavy loads. A friend or family member can help with the transfer of building materials or to relocate furniture. • Distractions: Avoiding distractions is essential when doing home renovations. Keep pets and children away from work areas to focus entirely on the job at hand. Injuries can derail home renovation projects if safety measures are ignored.

Should You DIY Your Paint Job Or Hire A Pro?

ew things can revitalize a home more readily than a fresh coat of paint. Thanks in part to the aﬀordability of paint and its ease of application, painting is something that even novice DIYers can typically handle. It is estimated that residential interior paint only lasts around three years before it needs to be updated. Exterior paint can fade, chip and peel due to various environmental factors. As a result, many homes can likely use a fresh coat of paint in at least one room. As DIY-friendly as painting can be, when attempting to paint the interior or exterior of their homes, homeowners may learn that some painting projects are best left to the professionals. Painting requires skill, patience and a knowledge of how

various paints — including finishes for particular applications — will hold up. Novice painters may do more harm than good by dripping paint on expensive carpeting or floors or fail to recognize the nuances that indicate a spot-on painting job. Professional painters have spent hours upon hours learning the ropes of what works — and what does not. Painters often understand that painstaking preparatory work is crucial to getting pristine finished results. Walls and ceilings must be properly repaired and prepared even before a base coat is applied. Professional painters also have an eye for details. And because professional painters make a business out of doing interior and exterior surfaces, they understand which techniques can improve eﬃciency. That means

a professional job can typically be completed much more quickly than a DIY project. Even though some people think they’ll save money by painting their own homes, that’s not necessarily true. Professionals already have all the equipment necessary, unlike novices who may need to make repeated and potentially costly trips to the hardware store for supplies. Plus, if mistakes happen, DIYers have to spend additional time and money fixing them. Safety can be a large motivator for turning painting over to a pro. Navigating exterior areas or tall interior ceilings can be challenging and may require scaﬀolding or tall ladders DIYers do not have. Risk of falls or other injuries increase with lack of experience.

Exterior paint jobs often aren’t as easy as inside ones for DIY enthusiasts.

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Saturday, April 27, 2019

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Ticks are problematic, but various measures can help control tick populations in a yard.

Steps To Keep Yards Free Of Ticks

espite their diminutive stature, ticks are a big concern for people, particularly those with pets. As the weather warms, ticks are out looking for a host to climb on and get a blood meal. Ticks are a significant concern because they can be infected with bacteria, viruses or parasites, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tularemia, and babesiosis are just a few of the many tick-borne diseases. These pathogens can be passed to humans and pets via the bite of infected

ticks. In 2018, at least one variety of disease-transmitting tick had been found in all of the lower 48 states, according to the CDC. In addition, researchers at Cornell University identified 26 species of ticks along the East Coast alone. Preventing tick bites has never been more important. The process starts right in one’s own backyard. According to Consumer Reports and other advisors, controlling wildlife that enters one’s yard can help keep tick numbers down. Open access means animals can enter and so can ticks. Fencing and

pest management solutions may help. Other ideas include landscaping techniques that can reduce tick populations: • Remove leaf litter from the yard. • Clear tall grasses and brush around homes and at the edges of the lawn. Mow regularly to keep the lawn short. • Create a barrier between wooded areas and the yard if it abuts a forested area. According to Consumer Reports, a threefoot-wide path of wood chips or gravel can prevent tick migration by creating a physical barrier that’s dry and sometimes too hot for ticks to tolerate. Such a barrier

also serves as a visual reminder to anyone in your household to be especially careful if they step beyond the perimeter. • Bag grass clippings, which can serve as habitats for ticks. • Remove old furniture, trash and other debris that can give ticks places to hide. • Remember to use a tick-repellent product when venturing into wooded areas. Flea and tick products also are available for pets; consult with a vet. Ticks are problematic, but various measures can help control tick populations in a yard.

How Tree Services Can Protect Your Property Cold weather can take its toll on a property, especially in regions of the world where winters are harsh. Most parts of the landscape are vulnerable to damage from winter storms, but trees may be especially susceptible. By the end of winter, many homeowners wonder if their trees would benefit from some professional TLC. Tree services provide a host of services. While fall is a popular time to remove trees from a property, doing so in spring is not unheard of, especially if trees were aﬀected by winter storms and now pose a threat to a home and the people who live inside it. Homeowners considering tree services can explore the following ways that some professional arbor attention can protect them and their homes. • Tree services can help protect a home’s foundation. Old trees that stretch well into the sky can be captivating, but they also can pose a threat to a home’s foundation. Such trees may have especially large root zones that may extend beneath walkways and even a home. In the latter instance, foundations may crack as roots try to

stake their claim to the ground beneath a home. According to the home improvement resource HomeAdvisor, homeowners pay an average of just over $4,000 to repair foundation issues, though major problems can cost considerably more than that. A

professional tree service can remove aging trees that might be beautiful and awe-inspiring but still pose a threat to a home and the areas surrounding it. • Tree services can improve visibility. Trees that have aged a bit since their last trimming

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might aﬀect the view of a property from inside a home. Overgrown branches can compromise residents’ ability to see and experience the natural beauty just outside their windows. The average homeowner may be able to trim short trees on his or

her own, but if views from the second floor of a home or higher have been compromised, it’s much safer to call a professional tree service. Such services have the right tools and experienced personnel necessary to safely trim high branches on tall trees. • Tree services can help prevent future damage. Even if trees made it through a recent winter unscathed, that’s no guarantee next winter or even the coming seasons of spring, summer and fall won’t ultimately prove their undoing. Travelers Insurance notes that weather-related roof damage, including damage resulting from falling limbs and branches weighed down by snow during the winter months, accounted for more than half of all Travelers property loss claims between 2009 and 2016. According to BNC Insurance and Risk Advisors, homeowners may be liable if a tree they knew posed a threat falls onto a passerby or a neighbor’s property and causes damage or injury. Having all trees properly trimmed each year, but especially those that can fall on your home and your neighbors’ homes, may prevent future damage and legal issues.

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6 Options For Funding Your Next Home Project B

efore starting a home improvement project, either on one’s own or with the assistance of a professional contractor, homeowners must first consider the costs involved. According to the home improvement resource HomeAdvisor, more than one-third of homeowners do not understand what hiring a professional will cost, and then cannot successfully budget and secure financing once they have set their sights on a renovation project. HomeAdvisor says that some of the more popular projects, such as remodeling a kitchen or bathroom or building a deck, can cost, on average, $19,920, $9,274 and $6,919, respectively. Homeowners may find that the more expensive renovations require them to secure some type of financing. Those who have never before sought such financing may want to consider these options. 1. Cash-out refinancing: With cash-out refinancing, a person will begin the mortgage process anew with the intention of paying oﬀ the current mortgage balance, and then taking out additional funds for other purposes. Cash-out refinancing is a way to tap into a home’s existing

equity for use on improvements or other expenses, such as college tuition. 2. Home equity line of credit: The financial experts at Bankrate indicate that a HELOC works like a credit card, with the house as collateral. There is a credit limit, and borrowers can spend

up to that limit. The interest rate may or may not be fixed. However, the interest may be tax-deductible if the financing is used to improve, buy or build a home. 3. Home equity loan: Individuals also can borrow against equity in their homes with a fixed

interest rate through a home equity loan. Most lenders will calculate 80 percent of the home value and subtract a homeowner’s mortgage balance to figure out how much can be borrowed, according to the financial advisory site The Simple Dollar. 4. Personal loan: Homeowners

can shop around at various financial institutions for competitive personal loans to be used for home improvement purposes. Funds may be approved within one business day, which can be ideal for those who want to begin their improvements soon. 5. Personal line of credit: A personal line of credit allows borrowers to borrow only the money needed at the time, and oﬀers a variable interest rate that is generally lower than fixed loan rates. Again, like a credit card, PLOC gives a person a maximum borrowing amount and is ideal for ongoing purchases. 6. Credit cards: In a pinch, credit cards can be used to finance improvements, but they do come with the cost of very high interest rates if the balance is not paid in full by the time the bill comes due. However, for funding smaller projects and maximizing rewards points through home improvement retailers or specific credit card company promotions, credit cards can be a way to earn various perks in addition to the benefit of improving a home. Homeowners looking to finance their next improvements should speak to a financial advisor and shop around for the best types of funding for them.

Improving A Home’s Curb Appeal A

n attractive front entrance area gives a home curb appeal that invites both guests and potential home buyers. Upgrading a home’s exterior can be as simple as painting or as complex as installing new windows or adding a patio. Inspiration for a curb appeal “makeover” that reflects the owner’s budget and decorating choices are easy to find online. Stop by the nearest Woodcraft store for tools and supplies, along with helpful advice from the staﬀ, or visit Woodcraft.com to shop and read how-to blogs and articles. One of the easiest and quickest ways to boost curb appeal is to paint (and repair if needed) a home’s front door, molding and trim. Painting garage doors, porches, shutters, doorsteps, flower boxes, furniture, mailboxes/ stands, and window trim are other potential projects, as is changing the front door hardware. For front door and shutter painting inspiration, visit these informational blogs on Woodcraft.com: Front Door Klein Blue Redo (http://bit.ly/2zSVV9J) and To Thine Own Self Be Blue (http:// bit.ly/2EkUsvR).

Repair & Paint

Questions To Ask Before You DIY

ome improvement projects are as popular as ever. In its 2017 True Cost Survey, the home improvement site HomeAdvisor found that, between February 2016 and February 2017, homeowners spent an average of just over $5,000 on home projects. That marked a nearly $1,900 increase from the year prior, indicating that homeowners are increasingly opening their wallets to transform their homes. In addition to spending money to improve their homes, many homeowners are spending their time on projects as well. While DIY projects can provide a sense of fulfillment and personal attachment to one’s home, prospective do-it-yourselfers should ask themselves some questions before picking up their hammers and getting to work.

Do I have any physical limitations? No matter how much home improvement television shows may simplify projects, prospective DIYers should know that such undertakings are typically very diﬃcult and oftentimes physically demanding. Homeowners with existing health conditions or other physical limitations may not be capable of performing certain tasks or may need to take frequent breaks, which can delay projects.

Do I have the time? Many home improvement projects require a significant amount of time to complete. Homeowners whose time is already stretched thin with commitments to work and/or family may not be able to complete projects within a reasonable amount of time. That’s fine if working on a part of the home that won’t aﬀect daily life, but can prove stressful or problematic if

the project is in a room, such as a kitchen or bathroom, that residents of the home use each day. Novice DIYers should be especially honest with themselves about the time they have available to work on the project, as such homeowners are bound to experience a few time-consuming missteps along the way.

Woodcraft oﬀers these products and ideas for more repairing and painting. • General Finishes Milk Paint is a premium interior/exterior mineral-based paint premixed in more than two dozen colors. It is so durable it does not require a topcoat. However, Woodcraft Product Development Manager Kent Harpool suggests using General Finishes Exterior 450 as a sealer for exterior uses. The 450 is fortified with UV absorbers to stabilize the finish and built-in mildewcide to retard mold and mildew growth. • Krud Kutter TSP Substitute will clean and degloss almost any surface prior to painting so that paint adheres better. • System Three Sculpwood Epoxy Putty is a two-part epoxy putty that can be used indoors or out. Mold it, shape it or use it to repair carvings, antique picture frames or even windowsills. Be sure to add a coat of General Finishes Exterior

450 to seal your work. • Titebond III Ultimate Wood Glue is waterproof, yet it cleans up with water. It allows eight minutes of open assembly time and oﬀers an application temperature as low as 47 F. • HOMERIGHT Super Finish Max and Finish Max Fine Finish HVLP Sprayers spray most solvent or water-based products — latex paint, milk paint, chalk paint, furniture paint, stains, and finishes. The Finish Max is ideal for small- to medium-sized projects, while the Super Finish Max is more powerful and covers a wider range of projects and thicker paints and varnishes with less thinning required. • HOMERIGHT Spray Shelters are good for furniture projects (large shelter), as well as smaller accessories (small shelter).

Remove, Replace & Build Replacing windows, gutters and downspouts; adding molding to a door; building — outdoor furniture, a unique mailbox and stand, or flower containers; and adding or expanding a patio area/ porch require a large investment of time and money. Look for these products to help with these replacement and building projects. • Lightweight and quiet, yet easily portable, the Rolair AB5 Air Buddy, 1⁄2 HP Compressor is a durable companion for your weekend projects. • Use the GREX Green Buddy 18-gauge, 2” Brad Nailer for trim and moldings, light wood assembly, window beading, scribe molding, and door and window casings. • For precision sawing, eﬃcient sanding, power cutting, accurate filing, scraping, cleaning and polishing, and more, consider the Fein MultiMaster Start Q with a pinless Starlock mounting system and easy snap-in accessories. • Take SawStop safety, quality and precision directly to your project work area when you choose the portable SawStop Jobsite Saw with Cart. To learn more about these and other products, stop in your local Woodcraft store, call (800) 535-4482 or visit www. woodcraft.com.

Can I aﬀord it? While DIY might seem more aﬀordable than hiring a contractor, that’s not necessarily true. Novice DIYers may need to buy or rent tools, costs that can add up. Contractors already have the tools necessary to begin and complete projects, so the cost savings of DIY might not be as significant as homeowners think. Before going the DIY route, homeowners should solicit estimates from contractors, comparing the estimates to how much a project will cost if homeowners do it themselves.

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Can I go it alone? Many home improvement projects require more than one set of hands, and it’s risky and even foolish for first-time DIYers to assume they can begin a project and see it through to completion entirely on their own. Homeowners whose spouses, partners, friends, or relatives are willing to chip in may think that’s enough. However, the DIY skills of those who volunteer may be a mystery until the project begins. Novice DIYers should enlist the help of a friend or family member with home improvement experience. If no such person is available, it may be wise to hire a contractor instead. Home improvement projects may seem simple on television. But prospective do-ityourselfers must make honest assessments of their skills, time and budgets before taking on a DIY project.

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SUN PHOTO BY CAMERON JUDD

Brandis Graham, lamp repair specialist and lighting/contractor sales representative at Williams Electric Supply, chats with fellow staff member Randy Dodson in the ofﬁce of the company’s Greeneville location.

A ﬁre pit is a great place to gather most months of the year.

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Keep Your Insurer In S The Loop During Home Improvements W

hether home improvement projects are design to improve the interior or exterior of a house, focusing on renovations that make the most financial sense can benefit homeowners in the long run. The right renovations can be assets if and when homeowners decide to sell their homes. If the value of your property changes, though, so do your insurance needs. Renovate your home and you may need to renovate your homeowner’s coverage as well. That process requires expert guidance. State Farm agent Lisa Crum can be that expert guide, making sure you have the level and kind of insurance you need as your properties gain value through renovations and other improvements. What sorts of improvements tend to increase the value of a home?

Here are several: • Adding a fire pit: A fire pit is a great place to gather most months of the year. Experts report that a fire pit realizes a 78 percent return on investment, or ROI. • Creating an outdoor kitchen: Many buyers are looking to utilize their yards as an extension of interior living areas. Cooking, dining and even watching TV outdoors is increasingly popular. Outdoor living areas can be custom-designed and built. In addition, prefabricated modular units that require a much smaller commitment of time and money are available. • Installing or enhancing a patio: Homeowners who do not already have a patio will find that adding one can increase a home’s value. Patios help a home look neat, add useable space and may help a home to sell quickly. The experts at Space Wise, a division of Extra Space Storage, say that refinishing, repairing and building a new patio oﬀers strong ROI. • Adding a deck: Decks can be as valuable as patios. A deck is another outdoor space that can be used for entertaining, dining and more. A 2018 “cost vs. value” report indicates that an $11,000 deck can add about $9,000 in resale value to the home, recouping around 82 percent of the project’s costs. • Doing a door update: Improve curb

appeal with a new, high-end front door and garage doors. If that’s too expensive, a good cleaning and new coat of paint can make an older door look brand new. These easy fixes can improve a home’s look instantly. • Doing a landscaping reboot: The National Association of Realtors says an outdoor makeover that includes wellthought out landscaping can net a 105 percent ROI. Installing a walkway, adding stone planters, mulching, and planting shrubs are ideas to consider. Whether your property improvement is outdoors or involves a house renovation or expansion, you should keep your homeowner insurance agent in the loop. An increase in your home value might leave you underinsured. So how do you make sure you give your agent the information he or she needs? The following are some tips given by homeowner advisors: Get all your relevant insurance policy documents into one place, and have your policy number handy so you don’t have to fumble about looking for it when it is requested. Take photographs of your home improvements. Put together a package containing the photographs, copies of appraisals, receipts, safety inspections and building permits taken out by you or your contractors. Be ready to present copies of these to your insurance company. Obtain a copy of the revised policy and check for accuracy. Your insurance policy might require you to notify your insurance company even before you commence any home improvement work. Even if it doesn’t, it is worth notifying your insurer anyway. Your insurance company might recommend that you insure the works and materials during the construction process, which will cover you should an insurance event happen to the work in progress. Before you do any work, check your policy, or telephone your insurer. State Farm’s Lisa Crum can be your local resource and guide through the insurance aspects of home ownership, renovations, transfers and changes. Call her at 423-639-5150 or visit www.lisacrumagency.com to connect with her.

If your walls could talk, they’d thank you. Lisa Crum, Agent 2195 E. Andrew Johnson Highway Greeneville, TN 37745

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cenario 1: The experience is familiar to many: you have specific questions about some electrical feature or fixture of your home, or perhaps have encountered a problem that needs correction, so you drive to a “big box” store to look for answers. When you get there you find a worker who greets you with a smile and asks what you need. You present your situation, and the worker’s smile fades. You are told the manager must be consulted, and the manager won’t be back until next Tuesday. You leave the store without the information or product you need. Scenario 2: You ordered an electrical product online and have a question about it. You find that getting an answer as specific as you need is virtually impossible via internet, and again you’re frustrated and thrown oﬀ-schedule. If you’ve had either or both of those experiences, Charlie Williams of Williams Electric Supply, 3195 E. Andrew Johnson Hwy, would like to meet you. He’s an outgoing, gregarious conversationalist who welcomes questions and has the decades of experience and knowledge in electrical service and supply. He knows his business. He welcomes customer inquiries from anyone who has

a question about lighting, wiring, switches … anything to do with electrical service, supplies, maintenance or repair. And he’s highly unlikely to have to go looking for the man in charge given that he IS the man in charge. The Williams Greeneville location is convenient, easy to find, and has a showroom chock full of lighting fixtures and related items displayed to inspire visions of what would be just right for your hallway, living room, dining area, bathroom or kitchen. Parking is ample, the staﬀ is experienced and friendly, and the building is large enough to hold an astonishing amount of product, while still small enough to avoid overwhelming the customer like a warehouse-type store can. And if you buy, for example, a light fixture to hang over your dining room table, then discover an installation issue, it isn’t hard, at Williams, to find an answer and solution. In typical situations, you can walk through the door and be conversing with the right person to answer your question within one or two minutes. If you need to bring an item back for an examination, it’s almost always easily done at Williams Electric, on-site and readily. SEE WILLIAMS ON PAGE 6

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A well-designed exterior entertainment space can be one of your home’s best features.

Creating A Perfect Outdoor Entertaining Space U

pon the arrival of warm weather, many individuals prefer to spend their free time outside, relishing the fresh air and sunshine and evenings spent under the stars. But cracked patios and makeshift chairs and tables may not establish the desired ambiance. An outdoor entertaining area that oﬀers the same amenities found inside a home can make outdoor retreats both comfortable and functional. Creative planning can help homeowners design dream areas perfect for hosting friends or family.

Establish goals As with any project, the first step when coordinating outdoor living areas is to determine what you hope to achieve with the space. Will it be a location for lounging? Will people be cooking meals outside? Is the pool the central focus of the yard? Answering these questions and more can help homeowners decide how to design their entertaining spaces. Remember, however, that goals may evolve as landscape designers and even architects make their

own suggestions for the space or present limitations.

Evaluate the space Look at the lot and decide what will go where, such as where to place the party space, where to create a quiet hideaway and where to locate a poolhouse or outdoor shower. A large, flat yard can be divided into a series of patios that serve diﬀerent purposes. Yards that are built on a hill or a slope can still be utilized with creative design elements, such as multi-tiered decking. By working with qualified designers, homeowners can bring their ideas to life.

Easy food and drink access Traipsing in and out of the house for refreshments can become tiresome when entertaining outside. wIn such situations, people also can track dirt inside of the home or leave a trail of pool water in their wake. Outdoor kitchens allow easy access to food and drink that makes outdoor entertaining much easier. The experts at Angie’s List suggest outdoor kitchens be built close to the house to make it easier

to run electricity and plumbing to the outdoor kitchen. Outdoor kitchens should include a sink, small refrigerator, built-in grill, and bar area.

Creature comforts Homeowners should think about the things that make the inside of their homes so comfortable and then replicate that outside. Sofas and loveseats covered in fabric suited for outdoors and plenty of pillows can make for great lounging. Lighting that can be adjusted for day or night, or even to set the mood, is another consideration. Shade structures, like a trellis or retractable awning, will keep the area comfortable and can also define outdoor “rooms” and establish privacy.

Fire it up Many homeowners enjoy having fire elements in their yards. Lanterns and candles may create a romantic feel, but a fire pit or outdoor fireplace may help extend use of the outdoor entertaining area beyond summer.

Lanterns or candles help light up your entertainment space.

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SUN PHOTOS BY CAMERON JUDD

The showroom at Williams Electric Supply in Greeneville is packed with enough product to intrigue customers with a wide range of tastes in lighting ﬁxtures. It also sells high-quality tools and electrical supplies.

WILLIAMS FROM PAGE 5

Commercial customers receive high-priority, convenient service at the counter located in the rear area of the store. And tucked away in that area is another unique oﬀering Williams Electric makes: a workshop where Brandis Graham works as a specialist in lighting repair and restoration, and displays an astonishing talent for retrofitting and transforming all kinds of sometimes-unlikely items into lighting fixtures. Sometime back, for example, she took an old-style beauty parlor dome hair dryer and turned it into a working stand lamp that

probably has no duplicate anywhere on the planet. She’s done the same kind of thing with the hub of a wagon wheel and all kinds of other atypical items. Williams Electric has family roots. Charlie Williams’ parents, still active, entered the electrical business many decades back, starting out as a Northeast Tennessee company performing electrical motor winding for Sears-Roebuck and expanding from there. The elder Williams also did electrical contracting as a sideline and, among other things, regionally pioneered aluminum wiring in home construction. Williams Electric Supply has branches not only in Greeneville, but in all three of the Tri-Cities.

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Dogs become part of the family, but they can take a toll on the family yard.

Protect Your Lawn From Fido Damage D ogs love spending time outdoors. Dog owners with yards know that dogs benefit greatly from some exercise in the backyard. While that time might be great for dogs, it can take its toll on lawns. Dog urine and feces can adversely aﬀect the look and health of a lush green lawn. Nitrogen is essential to healthy soil, but only at certain levels. When those levels are exceeded, the result can be lawn damage. According to The Spruce Pets, an advisory site that oﬀers practical tips and training advice to pet owners, this is what happens when pets frequently urinate on grass. Urine is naturally high in nitrogen, so when pets urinate on lawns, the grass might

turn yellow or brown due to the excess nitrogen content. Nitrogen also is present in lawn fertilizers, further exacerbating the problem for pet owners who fertilize their lawns. In addition to urine damage, dogs can trample frosted grass, contributing to problems that may not become evident until spring, and get into areas like gardens where they wreak additional havoc. Pet owners who want to let their dogs run free in the yard but don’t want damaged grass may be tempted to put their pooches in diapers or confine them to crates when letting them outside. But such an approach isn’t necessary. In fact, some simple strategies can be highly eﬀective at preventing dog-related

lawn damage. • Speak with a landscaper about planting new grass. Certain types of grass, such as Bermuda grass, can withstand dog damage better than others. Local climate will dictate which types of grass are likely to thrive in a given area, so speak with a professional landscaper about the viability of planting new grass. • Install fencing. Pet owners with expansive yards can install fencing that allows dogs to spend time exercising outdoors without granting them access to the entire property. Large dogs will need more room than small ones, but try to build fenced-in areas that allow dogs to run freely and get the exercise they need to stay healthy.

• Work with a dog trainer. Dog trainers might be able to work with dogs so they only urinate in certain areas of the yard, greatly reducing the damage they can cause to a lawn. Trainers also might help curb digging and clawing behaviors that can damage lawns as well as gardens. • Consider hardscaping. Hardscaping might be most eﬀective for pet owners with small properties. Hardscaping does not include grass and can add visual appeal to a property while saving pet owners the headaches of dealing with dog-related lawn damage. Dogs need time outdoors, and homeowners can take various steps to protect their lawns from dog-related damage.

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THE GREENEVILLE SUN HOME IMPROVEMENT EDITION

Water features, such as ponds or waterfalls, can add a special touch to the landscape.

A Water Feature Might Be What Your Landscape Needs M

any homeowners aspire to make their homes appear as beautiful and welcoming as possible. Exterior renovations may be high on homeownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to-do lists, and landscaping is oftentimes a key component of those projects. When planning gardens, homeowners may benefit by considering more than just flowers and shrubs while giving thought to other elements that can breathe vitality into their landscape designs. Water features can do just that, as such features provide more than just visual appeal. â&#x20AC;˘ Aesthetic appeal: Water elements stand out against the greenery and foliage

and can be used to create focal points around the garden or yard. A single fountain can draw the eye, while a trickling stream or waterfall can deliver water to various spots in the landscape. â&#x20AC;˘ Soothing sound: Rain drops on a rooftop or waves lapping on a shoreline elicit feelings of harmony and relaxation. Water features can bring that gentle sound close to home, further enhancing the ambiance. â&#x20AC;˘ Brings texture: Water has its own unique and fluid texture that can provide stark contrast to blades of grass or the hard lines of architectural elements, such as pergolas or retaining walls. A pond or fountain can soften lines.

Things To Know Before You Build A Greenhouse

vid gardeners may be enticed by the idea of a greenhouse that allows them to explore their passion for plants year-round. While itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s true that greenhouses aďŹ&#x20AC;ord this luxury, there are important things to consider before erecting a greenhouse in your yard. Greenhouses require ample time to maintain. Greenhouses are not self-managing; they require heat, water, venting, electricity, and maintenance on the part of gardeners. Individuals need to determine how much time they have to devote to a greenhouse and then consider their options. Start by choosing the size of the greenhouse. Many experts suggest getting the largest one you can aďŹ&#x20AC;ord and fit into the yard. It is much easier to fill a large greenhouse than try to expand a small one later on. Next, consider whether you want to build the greenhouse from scratch or utilize a prefabricated kit that can make easier work of the job. Kits typically contain all of the materials needed, and are easiest for someone who is a construction novice. Look for â&#x20AC;&#x153;grower greenhouses,â&#x20AC;? which are all-purpose options with adjustable shelving and space for growing plants full-term. The next step is deciding where the green-

house will be located. The goal is to have a consistent amount of sunlight year-round. A south-facing locale is ideal, and structures should remain north of the greenhouse so they do not cast a shadow on it. The building, cars and technology resource Popular Mechanics advises gardening enthusiasts to take into consideration the angle of the sun during all seasons before choosing a location. Doing so ensures that the sun is not obscured in the winter or fall. Select a spot that also has ample drainage, as you will not want water pooling up along the sides of or underneath the greenhouse. Raise the greenhouse on footings to alleviate flooding concerns. Consult with a gardening or agriculture expert about the best way to heat the greenhouse. Options abound with electric-, gas- and propane-powered heating sources. Some systems will require venting. You also will need to know what is available and legal in your area. Check to see if you need a building permit for the greenhouse and any accompanying heating elements. Once the greenhouse is situated, you can begin to add other items, like benches, additional shelving, hooks for tools, and even an automated watering or misting system.

â&#x20AC;˘ Enhance the natural ecosystem: Water features can attract wildlife to a property. Birds may visit to take a quick sip, and dragonflies are sure to dart and hover over the shimmering ripples. Inviting natural wildlife to the yard can add hours of entertainment by enjoying the animals and insects. â&#x20AC;˘ Remedy problem areas: Rather than fighting with the landscape, homeowners can adapt it. An area of the yard prone to soggy conditions or flooding can be transformed into a pond or waterfall to work with natural surroundings. â&#x20AC;˘ Foster a passion: Many people turn to water features so they can explore the hobby of nurtur-

ing an outdoor aquarium. Koi ponds are relatively easy to install and maintain, and the vibrant fish add visual appeal. â&#x20AC;˘ Add a personal touch: Water features are as unique as the homeowners who create them. To set landscaping apart from neighborsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; homes, homeowners can add fountains, ponds or flowing water elements to their properties. Decorative water features also can be melded with pools and spas to help these manmade recreational areas seem like they were carved right out of the natural landscape. Water features can take landscapes to the next level with sounds, texture, movement, and beauty.

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Getting Bugged By Home-Invading Insects? Fight Back

ust when winter thaws out and people are anxious to enjoy the blooming flowers and luscious lawns of spring, pesky pests can appear and impact comfort levels and safety. Many pests resume their levels of activity as spring draws closer and temperatures warm up. The presence of these insects and rodents may cause problems in and around a home, which makes it essential to recognize them and avoid issues. The following are some of the more common spring pests and how to remedy infestations.

Pavement ants Pavement ants are some of the most common pests residents encounter inside and outside of their homes. These ants are light brown to black with appendages that are lighter than the rest of their bodies.

Small in stature, pavement ants have parallel lines on their heads and thorax. Although pavement ants nest outdoors, they can enter homes through small crevices in search of food scraps. Their large colonies may not disappear until treatment is introduced. Keep foods in tightly sealed containers, clear counters and floors of crumbs, and address water sources, such as leaks. Pesticides may be needed in extreme conditions.

more quickly at higher temperatures. At normal room temperatures, the entire life cycle of a flea is about 18 days. Several flea control products are available to control fleas on cats and dogs. There also may be powders and sprays to alleviate flea infestations in the home. Vacuuming is also very eﬀective in killing larvae in the carpet and at picking up adults.

Wasps Fleas Fleas are tiny, jumping, biting pests that must find a host upon which to live. As ectoparasites, they feed on blood while living on the body of living hosts. Pets can bring fleas inside the yard and home in warm weather. According to the University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program, flea larvae develop

An errant wasp, hornet or yellow jacket may have survived winter and ridden out the colder temperatures within a home. Once the weather warms, queens will begin to look for places to lay eggs and establish colonies. Treating areas where wasps are seen entering and leaving the home is key. Seal holes as soon as possible.

Although wasps help control other insect populations, their painful stings and potentially aggressive nature can make them challenging to have around a home. If a nest is found, hire a professional to remove it.

Spiders Many spiders are not harmful enough to humans and pets to be much of a problem. In fact, spiders can be helpful to have around to control the populations of other insects. Still, many homeowners would prefer these web-slinging friends remain outdoors. Therefore, sealing cracks in a home’s foundation and repairing small openings around windows and doors can help keep spiders out. Also, alleviating moisture issues in basements, garages or attics may keep out other bugs that would be prey to spiders.

Mulch: It Isn’t Just For Springtime Anymore H

omeowners may associate mulch with springtime lawn and garden care, but mulching in fall can benefit a lawn as well. Mulch protects roots against extreme temperatures, and not just those associated with summer heat waves. Mulch is often connected with its ability to help soil retain moisture during especially warm times of the year, when mulch promotes strong roots that can help lawns and plants survive periods of extreme heat. But when applied in the fall, mulch also inhibits freezing and thawing in winter, reducing the likelihood that plants will be

injured. While applying mulch in fall can be beneficial to lawns, homeowners should first consider a few factors. • Timing: Mulch being applied as winter protection should not be applied too early in the fall, as doing so may delay the soil freezing process. Homeowners should wait until after a hard frost in the fall to apply winter mulch. In many places, hard frost will not appear until late fall. • Texture: Experts recommend medium-textured mulch. Fine particles may

pack down and retain moisture that will evaporate before it reaches the plant roots. Materials that are too coarse may be incapable of holding suﬃcient amounts of water to benefit the soil. • Nutrients: Humus is an organic component of soil that forms when leaves and other plant materials decompose. Organic mulches provide humus and decompose over time, adding nutrients into the soil. Use organic mulch that was composted or treated prior to application so any weeds, insects or microorganisms are killed.

• Application: Correct application of the mulch is essential. Applying too much mulch can adversely aﬀect lawns, plants and soil. In addition, excessive application can cause decay and make lawns and plants more vulnerable to disease. Homeowners uncertain about when and how to apply mulch in the fall can consult with a lawn care professional to devise a plan that ensures their lawns and gardens hold up against winter weather. Mulch may be widely associated with spring lawn care, but applying mulch in the fall can benefit

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Furniture, Accents, Decorative Items … Roberts Furniture Oﬀers Them All

domestic need that faces all new families and continues through all their years is the need for a place to live, and furnishings for that place. Furniture, decorations, accents ... all these things are the building blocks of family memories. Everyone treasures having that old table from Grandmother’s house, that chair that was Dad’s most cherish possession and place of relaxation, that delightful old headboard that has passed down through the family for more decades than anyone can remember. If the furniture that surrounds us is to become a lasting part of our home and family culture, it’s important that it be of lasting quality. That’s where Roberts Furniture gives a

true advantage to local folks who are walking the aisle and “setting up housekeeping” to lay a foundation for their own family traditions and treasures. Speaking of treasures, even little things – that picture that will hang on your wall for all your life, that accent piece that holds that beloved old lamp – those can become treasured family heirlooms passed on through generations. Roberts Furniture has you covered on all counts: Roberts stocks a complete line of home furnishings, from major furniture items right down through knick knacks. As newlyweds, you’re writing your own family story. The Roberts Furniture story is a family story too. C. Edward Roberts and Johnnie Roberts

opened Roberts Furniture store in 1978. The business continues to be family-operated today by the Roberts’ daughter, Betty Bird, and granddaughter Pam Johnson. Roberts’ 50,000-plus-square-foot store is located in Towne Square Shopping Center on Summer Street. The store oﬀers a wide array of furniture for the entire home, home accents, bedding, candles and more. Roberts Carries brand names such as LaZBoy, Catnapper, Mayo, Lane, Ashley, Liberty, Pulaski, and more. Selections in bedding by Tempur-Pedic, Stearns & Foster, and Restonic, made right here in East Tennessee, range in size from twin to king sizes and are available in many levels of firmness.

2019

The store oﬀers home-decorating accents, candles and more to dress your home. All the furniture and accessories in the store are hand-selected to give customers the best look for the best price. Roberts is proud to have served Greene County for more than 40 years, assisting customers in transforming houses into homes. Visit this, one of Greeneville’s bestknown businesses, online at http://robertsfurnitureonline.com. Or just stop in and take a look at what we’ve got to oﬀer you. Roberts wants to become part of your own family story and home. Come visit our family business and see what we can do to brighten your homeplace.

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Even though gardening is viewed as a relaxing pastime, the work involved can be taxing on the body. Ergonomic tools and proper form can keep injuries at bay.

For Easier Gardening, Go Ergonomic

rgonomic gardening techniques and tools can help gardeners reduce their risk of injury and make gardening more comfortable.

Warm up: Just as novice athletes wouldn’t dive right into a strenuous workout at the gym, nor should novice gardeners immediately pick up a shovel and jump into digging a hole for their new tree. Gardening requires bending, stooping, lifting, twisting, and other movements that work the entire body. Spending 10 or more minutes stretching, walking and doing a few back and arm rotations can limber the body up for the physical activity to come. Use proper form: Think about the mechanics of lifting weights during a workout, as home and garden tasks may mimic movements made when exercising. The occupational therapists at Bend Spinal Care say that strain on the lower back can be reduced by positioning objects close to the body and its center of gravity when lifting them. Furthermore, people can contract their abdominal (core) muscles when lifting and bending to support the back. When lifting heavy objects, power should be derived from the legs and

buttocks rather than the back.

Keep items close: Keeping work closer to the body will reduce the need for stooping, leaning or reaching, which should cut down on pulled muscles. Long-handled tools can help minimize reaching. Use step ladders to reach high areas or get down on padded cushions to work closer to the ground. This alleviates strain to the neck from having to look up or down for extended periods of time. Raised garden beds can bring plants to a person’s level. The therapists at ProCare Physical Therapy say that working below shoulder level whenever possible can prevent shoulder strains; otherwise, perform tasks for no more than five minutes at a time.

Invest in new tools: Cushioned grips and grip handles can prevent wrist fatigue, as can hand tools that keep wrists straight to improve strength and reduce repetitive motion injuries. Long-handled tools and push mowers should be as tall as the person using them. Seek out tools that keep the body in natural positions to maximize eﬃciency.

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There are things that can be done to help block radon during the home-building phase.

Steps To Block Radon Inﬁltration Into Your House Flooring For Any Kind Of Space A Is A Jaynes Specialty The beauty of any space for living or working is enhanced by the right ﬂooring.

s the world has changed, so, too, have home buyers. The home buyers of today typically want homes that align with life in the 21st century. That means extra outlets for all of our devices and homes pre-wired for high speed internet access. Housing starts, which refers to the number of new residential construction sites, reflect buyers’ demand for newly built homes. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there were slightly more than 1.2 million housing starts in September 2018, which marked a sizable increase from a year prior, when 1.158 million new residential constructions broke ground. Though prospective buyers want a host of modern amenities, they also want something valued by homeowners since the dawn of time: safety. Security systems can safeguard homeowners and their families from criminals, but homeowners also must ensure steps are taken to protect a home’s inhabitants from naturally occurring threats, including radon. Radon is a radioactive gas that is produced from the natural breakdown of the uranium found in most rocks and soil. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, exposure to radon gas is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Because it’s naturally occurring, radon can infiltrate any home. However, the EPA, working alongside state and federal geologists, has developed maps that predict the potential indoor radon levels for every county in the country. (Note: Radon can pose a health risk when breathed in through outdoor air, but such instances are unusual because radon is typically diluted in open air.) Each county has been assigned a zone depending on its potential radon threat, and those that pose the biggest threat are designated as Zone 1, while those with the lowest threat are Zone 3. Homeowners building their homes can contact their state’s radon oﬃce via www.epa.gov to determine which zone their property is in. In addition to learning which radon zone they’re in, homeowners building new homes can ask their builders to take the following measures so their homes’ interiors are as resistant to radon as possible. • Install a layer of clean gravel or aggregate beneath the slab or flooring system. • Lay polyethylene sheeting on top of the gravel layer. • Include a gas-tight venting pipe from the gravel level through the building to the roof. • Seal and caulk the foundation thoroughly. Learn more about radon, including how to determine radon levels in your home, at www.epa.gov.

he way a home is designed can say a lot of things about it. In fact, many real estate professionals and contractors can determine when a home was built based on the design of its interior. For example, homes with sunken living rooms were likely built sometime in the 1960s and 1970s. Open concept living rooms are one trend that might one day make people nostalgic for the early 21st century. Many of today’s home buyers want homes with open concept floor plans, which can give homes a more spacious feel, perhaps even creating the illusion that a home is bigger than it really is. If you opt for an open concept space, your flooring choices will be a crucial part of the decision process. Carpet? Hardwood? Laminate? Tile? Stone? Vinyl?

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concept or a more traditional configuration. Whatever their style, homes, oﬃce buildings, commercial structures, shops and vacation homes have one thing in common: flooring. On its website, http://jaynesflooring.com, Jaynes says: “With one of the largest showrooms in East Tennessee, our flooring selection has unlimited possibilities and selections. Our large in-stock supply of carpet, vinyl, hardwood tile, trims, adhesives, cove base, metals, moldings and tools will surely provide you the choice, style and design that will fit your project and your home. Jaynes Flooring also oﬀers rug binding, competitive financing, free estimates and free delivery!” The number to reach Jaynes is 639-1901.

The more visually dominate your floor space, the more its appearance matters. And most homeowners can benefit from guidance and experience-based advice in how to make the best of it, open concept or otherwise. You are likely to live with your flooring choice for a long time, so the choice matters. A respected, long-established local guiding light for flooring decisions and products is Jaynes Flooring at 3245 E. Andrew Johnson Hwy. in Greeneville. Jaynes has been providing top-quality flooring options for local homes, commercial structures, churches and other types of buildings for more than four decades. If the question involves flooring, Jaynes probably has the answer, whether your home has an open

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Hardscaping refers to the elements in a landscape that aren’t living, such as paths, walls and fences.

Defining Hardscape And How To Use It C urb appeal is beneficial in various ways. Curb appeal can make a home more attractive to prospective buyers and give existing homeowners a place they want to come home to. In its study of the worth of outdoor remodeling projects, the National Association of Realtors found standard lawn care and overall landscape upgrades were most appealing to buyers, as well as the most likely to add value to a home. Although plants, grass and other items can improve curb appeal, homeowners should not overlook hardscaping. Hardscaping is an industry term that refers to the non-living features of a landscape. These features can include everything from decks to walkways to ornamental boulders. Introducing paths

or paver walls to a property helps develop that home’s hardscape. Hardscape and soft elements often work in concert to create inspiring landscape designs. DIY landscape designers can heed certain tips to make the most of hardscape features on their properties. Choose materials: As with many landscaping projects, homeowners must first determine what types of additions they would like on their properties. Common hardscape features include patios, decks, walkways of pavers or bricks, and retaining walls. Hardscape elements can be functional or simply decorative features that add whimsy to the yard. Choose a theme: The right style allows hardscaping and softscaping materials to

work together. For example, homeowners may want to give their yards an eastern feel, complete with a koi pond and decorative bridge or trellis. A formal English garden, however, may include manicured paths with stepping stones and ornate topiaries. Mixing too many styles together can take away from the overall appeal. The pros suggest looking at the overall plan of the design, even if all of the work can’t be completed at once. This way the eventual finished project wil be cohesive. Think about the purpose: Hardscaping can look good but also serve key purposes. Pebbles or gravel can mitigate trouble areas that don’t grow grass or plant life well. Retaining walls hold back soil in yards with sharply inclined hills. Mulch

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Before you let your builder pick up a tool and start work, make sure of his licensure, insurance status and bonding.

Contractor Licensure, Insurance And Bonding All Are Essentials

tates require licensing for building contractors. These laws have been passed to protect property owners from incompetent or dishonest contractors. The licensing process tests basic competency as well as ways to screen out dishonest contractors. A valid license is the first, but not the only, indication that your contractor might be qualified to do the job. Hite Construction in Greeneville, a company with a long-established history and heritage in the local builders community, says a contractor should not only be licensed, but also insured and bonded. In the excited, distracted rush to get started on a building project, it is possible for one or more of those qualifications to be overlooked or under-examined. Hite advises those about to build a home or have work done on an existing one to pause, take a breath, and throughly check out all the qualifications of any contractor being considered. It can save headaches, expense and turmoil down the road if something goes awry. Gain verification of licensure, insurance and bonding. Make sure all such matters are current and up to the standards your project demands. The website real-estate-law.freeadvice. com provides insight into the licensing aspect of the above. The site says: “There are diﬀerent licenses required for diﬀerent aspects of construction projects. The person who deals directly with you as the property owner is the general contractor. This person works with you, oversees the project, purchases many of the materials needed, and hires subcontractors (contractors who work for the general contractor and not directly for you). The license for a general contractor

does not authorize him to do all the jobs in the construction project. So, be sure you know what a general contractor’s license covers in your state.” Further, the website advises: “Most states oﬀer a variety of special contractor licenses to cover specific jobs. To obtain a special license, a contractor must show competency in a specific area such as electrical work, roofing, or plumbing. If a general contractor doesn’t have the necessary special license to do part of a project, he must hire a subcontractor with that particular license to perform the work.” The website summarizes the point in a way that can apply not only to licensing, but the insurance and bonding aspect of contractor hiring as well: “You should always stay as informed as possible with all aspects of your construction project. Mistakes that are caught early are much less expensive to fix. It is also worth checking that all the contractors working on your project have the required state licenses.” Hite Construction, 210 Park St., is owned by Jamey and Jessie Hite. The Hite name has a long association with the construction business in Greene County due to the respected work of Jamey’s grandfather, Paul Hite, and Jamey’s father, Tom Hite, Paul’s son. Jamey Hite recommends that anyone undertaking a building project, whether new construction, home repair, or renovation, come to the project with three things: a clear concept of what is wanted, a budget, and the above-discussed understanding and expectation of proper contractor licensures, insurance and bonding. To reach Hite, call 639-1075 or email jameyhite@yahoo.com.

can set perimeters around trees and shrubs, as well as planting beds. Fencing, another form of hardscaping, is essential for establishing property boundaries and adding privacy. Consult a professional.: While many hardscaping additions can be handled by novices, large-scale projects, such as patios and decking, can change the grading of the yard. Professionals can map out how to handle drainage issues and meet building codes. In addition, professional installation can ensure hardscaping features last for years to come. Hardscaping should blend with the nature around it and take its cues from the surrounding environment. This can help softscaping and hardscaping work as one. 1

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Select The Right Fertilizer For Your Needs F

or plants to truly flourish, the right growing conditions and soil that oﬀers the right nutrients is of paramount importance. Fertilizer enhances soil so that plants and flowers can thrive. However, fertilizer is not a one-size-fits-all mix. Choosing fertilizer can be a little overwhelming thanks to the variety of formulations available at neighborhood lawn and garden centers. Shelves contain all-purpose products, such as those billed as vegetable fertilizer, and even formulations geared toward specific flower varieties. Others may feature buzz words like “all-natural” or “organic,” and consumers may not be sure just what they need to keep plants healthy. The following guidelines can help any would-be gardener or landscaper grow more vibrant

plants. Start with a soil test: It’s diﬃcult to determine what plants need without an accurate picture of what’s going on in the ground. A soil test can paint a picture of what’s going on and indicate if any nutrients are lacking. A common misconception is that gardeners fertilize plants. But fertilizer amends the soil that feeds plants, according to the soil-testing lab professionals at Virginia Tech. Soil types vary by region, and conditions may even vary between spots on a landscape. Testing where the plants will be placed can yield the most accurate results. Soil tests are available at gardening centers and online. Otherwise, landscaping professionals can conduct tests. Know the N-P-K ratio: Most fertilizers

will come with information concerning the nutrients within. Most notably it will have a breakdown of how much nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P) and potassium (K) is in the mix. Judging by the soil test, gardeners can choose a product that will give them the right ratio to amend the soil for the type of plant they are hoping to grow. Complete fertilizers often have NPK in the formulation. Incomplete fertilizers may have only one or two nutrients. This allows a person to customize fertilizer even more without overdoing it with a particular nutrient. Grow plant knowledge: A cursory knowledge of the plants being planted in the garden also can be helpful. Gardeners must recognize that some plants will not tolerate excess amounts of a particular fertilizer component, while some may need

more. Checking books out of the library, seeking information online and consulting with landscaping experts will help expand homeowners’ knowledge about plant types and the needs of each particular plant they hope to grow. Solid and liquid fertilizer: Fertilizers are generally sold in pellets, spikes and liquid forms. Pellets or granules are dispersed over large areas and will gradually oﬀer nutrients when the soil is watered. Liquid fertilizer is concentrated and fast-acting. These may be used for container plants or smaller areas. Spikes usually are placed in houseplants or to feed individual trees or shrubs. Depending on the formulation, fertilizer may need to be reapplied once a month or more. Consult the product packaging for the correct application advice.

ATTENTION: GL&PS CUSTOMERS <<< May is National Electrical Safety Month >>> In order to better educate the citizens of Greeneville and Greene County, Greeneville Light & Power System would like to provide their customers with the following important electrical safety tips in honor of electrical safety month. • Never touch a fallen power line. Always assume it is energized and contact GL&PS immediately. • When pruning trees or working on the roof, always beware of overhead power lines. • Never allow children to Áy kites near electrical power lines. • Stay away from potentially dangerous electrical hazards such as substations, poles, wires, meters, and transformers. • Before you dig, make sure there are no underground power lines. Call Tennessee One Call @ 1-800-351-1111. • When using extension cords, make sure they are rated for the products you are using. • Use only Àberglass or wooden ladders when working around electricity. • Read and obey all danger and warning signs.

Greeneville Light & Power System 110 North College Street

423-636-6200

423-636-6202 (Emergency)

www.glps.net

THE GREENEVILLE SUN HOME IMPROVEMENT EDITION

Saturday, April 27, 2019

www.greenevillesun.com

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Important Information: Interest on the portion of the credit extension that is greater than the fair market value of the dwelling is not tax deductible for Federal income tax purposes; and the consumer should consult with a tax adviser for further information regarding the deductibility of interest and charges. Subject to credit approval. Certain restrictions apply.

Apply online or call 800.999.2328.