Home and Garden Fall 2015

Home and Garden October 2015 Edition INSIDE • Building A Deck • Installing Drywall • Repairing Leaky Faucets • Kitchen Renovations • Metal Backsplashes • Installing A New Toilet

Published by the News-Dispatch

HOME IMPROVEMENT | BACKYARD PROJECTS

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Building a Deck

dding a deck to your backyard can turn it into an outdoor oasis. With the proper measurements and tools, the project can be wrapped up over the course of a couple of weekends.

You’ll need a general understanding of how a deck is structured, so do your research. Will it be a simple, single-level deck? Or do you want to incorporate various raised areas for patio furniture or a grill?

Once you build your deck, don’t forget the finishing touches, such as solar post lights or light-blocking canopies that attach to your home.

The final appearance of your deck is limited only to your imagination.

Here’s what you’ll need: • Circular saw • Drill • Posthole digger • Decking screws • Concrete mix • Level Pressure-Treated Lumber: 2X8X10 (joists) 2X10X10 (beams) 2X8X8 (decking) 4X4X8 (posts)

BUILDING YOUR DECK 1. First carefully measure your deck area to determine the amount of lumber and materials you will need.

Diligent measurements will mean less waste in the end and a more efficient process.

2. Mark your deck’s foundation and footing post locations with spray paint. This prep

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work will help you quickly dig holes for the deck’s ground support.

3. Dig footer holes 36 inches into the ground. Then mix and pour concrete into the holes with posts. Let the concrete set for at least one day. Some man-

ufacturers recommend a week.

4. Cut 2X10s to the length of the deck and secure it to your posts. These will serve as the main beams.

5. Mark, cut and secure joists to run between the beams.

Deck boards will connect to the

joists.

6. Lay the deck boards.

Remember to leave a gap between boards for expansion and contraction. Insert two screws at every joist, countersinking the screws to prevent unsightly or potentially danger-

ous screw heads from popping up.

7. For the railing, measure and install posts every six feet along the side of the deck. Bolt the posts to the outer joists. Cut the rails to size and install between the railing posts.

Your home improvement partner!

Before You Begin Your Home Improvement Project… Would More Space Solve Some Headaches?

Moving in or out of apartments, homes or locations?

• We have month-to-month terms on our units. No long-term contracts or leases.

• Building a home and need temporary storage of furniture and home items while you move and build? Store the extra furniture while you construct.

• Staging for your home sale • “The Coolest” indoor climate controlled units to provide ideal storage for your clothes, photos and other valuables sensitive to climate changes.

• Discount (at cost) boxes, pads and other moving materials to unit customers.

• Store boats, jet skis or your RV in open or covered secure slots.

• Store you classic or hobby cars and boats securely with easy access.

• 24 hour access to your property. TV surveillance with great lighting, free locks, wide easy drive in and out pavement to all units.

• Affordable rates for indoor or outdoor storage units.

• We also offer special Concierge Services unlike any other storage facility in Hays County.

For our commercial tenants:

If you have a Home-Based Business, we can offer extra space for inventory, products or equipment. Perfect for record storage to keep your home office neat and well managed.

• Concierge Services • Free Wi-Fi in the office • Use of waste and recycling containers • Invoicing and year-end reports • Document scanning services • Mail and delivery receiving

Visit us online at www.LockTiteStorage.com LockTite Storage of Dripping Springs 3000 US Hwy 290 E. in Dripping Springs • 512-894-3303

LockTite Storage of Wimberley 16955 Ranch Road 12 in Wimberley • 512-865-5309

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HOME IMPROVEMENT | WALLS AND CEILINGS

Installing Drywall

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o you have a room with damaged drywall? Maybe you’re looking to replace older paneling with the smooth, more modern appeal of drywall.

Installing and finishing your own drywall is a tedious, yet doable project for the average homeowner. Drywall comes in large sheets that are easy to screw into your wall’s studs.

Once you have removed your damaged drywall or paneling, it’s time to get to work.

HANGING YOUR DRYWALL Before you hang your drywall, it’s important to hold a piece up to your wall to make sure both ends of it are on a stud. With a cordless drill and the proper drywall screws, drive a screw every 8 inches along the perimeter of each sheet.

Drive your screws until they are imprinted into the drywall, not flush with the surface. You will apply joint compound to these dimpled areas later for a smooth finish.

Don’t forget to measure, mark and cut your drywall where any electrical outlets or light switches will need to go.

MUDDING YOUR DRYWALL Once your drywall is hung, it’s time to apply joint compound to all taped areas and any screw holes or dents. Also known as mud, this compound will take care of any imperfections and make your various pieces of drywall appear as one.

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• Smooth on the compound with a taping knife; • Wait for the first coat to dry and then apply a second; and • Remember you will be

sanding this later so only use what you need.

SANDING DRYWALL Use a medium-grit sandpaper in your first round of sand-

ing to bring down any rough areas left over from mudding.

Too coarse a paper could damage the drywall paper surface.

Too light a paper could be ineffective in breaking through lay-

ers of mud.

For ceilings you can use a pole-mounted drywall sanding tool. For small areas, you can sand with a wet sponge to reduce drywall dust.

CUSTOM WINDOW COVERINGS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES Graber, Hunter Douglas, Horizons, Norman • Wood & Faux Wood Blinds • Roman Shades • Pleated Or Cell Shades • Woven Woods • Solar Screens • Plantation Shutters and More

Free estimates Superior service before and after the sale

512-847-8970

13701 RR 12, Wimberley, TX 78676

www.MadeintheShadeofWimberley.com Tasty tim at Drip es pi with Ta ng ste page 3

Your home.

Your stories.

Your news.

Subscribe to the News-Dispatch and keep up with your community. Call Suzanne at 512268-7862 or email paper@haysnewsdispatch. com to get the best news in Dripping Springs, Wimberley and western Hays County.

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10:00 Years ago e of the prod Rock, ing a holy ending. disa few n to a.m. Thm begin at blic I bee nth per , the thr am venue ect mo ty. have is final weeks of pu ty behind progra gram this posting “There dies that refl e nas The lanwasn’t such a iving music After to al stu The proabout com ted , and somabbling, the ed Thtive nation d travel rela said. foundeddlord, Bob Rosure thing. e DSlHS course will be l be presen an uncil vot enes squ onde Co Braige es,” reduce 2001. Wh Nutty Bro tter, a taxStu the-sc ey City Co ct HOT nt sed rat uncilsewil and wil ie Warner, t. $15 erl l beare

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BY DAV would ord He add n’t be all tha inf 686 or ID WHITE en for l from Rought Nutty Bro kless eral acclaim push ty, acc at the storm bu wo era y more 305-304-4 it, cam Kel sts sev se. ed bu ed w. tte ly. The sin gue Tex pa involv center are luding local T wn Café ce increa “It was r in 200 eement venue as country g.

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Lib into an me, a lot got seem said it rst sold-out sho owner uld have the rt rking seven t within the ttee. here.” go Vald he wo outwas his suppo good on its pla stack ofsai d thetpro submi nonprofits rteuld commi nuld a commd is required es night. ttee as they sho izations best an w. Farr CDos sta 0 percen getwo cou after l on the ney makes isory commi consensus a day, ma wh in ording toward nity organ rds or d worst moma tripled contro Thurber and walter said such a unity to rec of thethe era the rec inly dfro “We had so. an adv a mediated the chamyinilgeve th On recognit commu st be 100 wo eive businessnt away,” Val Sho l a late sai ing bual m ry Bo y s nci rib so loc Ca we “M in Pam ard en ma 00 nsc cou thy ran ou ion sai ber talents er of 1,0 towht dri ent, tra lined ent betwe med tourism ds we popped nig and mu t of eve ny people ud cilmemlast week’s city cerned direct Moreman, exe ve hofime said. “Th HOT fun rst ord. ryt - onequ con e ofipm agreem a newly for or s and arg less. his iso the CD e and during g they were the adv comm of the cham cutive to give e only thinghing,” Farr tracks , he pla servic said. disagreement Wimberley teof ber and erc intower of . ber of Weeks yer , the ho meetin makeup The Shiner.”was a room I had left ing theter around oks.

“The e. the group. t agreement majortemper noare regard r Ra w the podeal with –Mike w one latebo about kno needs idea is a co ature “Ind ments med to cen . y Ro Reed In tha to have the mber ng is we ples, ncil.

Farr, Nu ger cou be- of the top me ed d. “AndCa g peo m ntr ry cou primary thi s fro comm a vibrant art mmunity crazy shosaid he loved Tex HOT seeinvolvement ess owners y musichelpin tty Bro aslliams saiof that fé owner liers ask of the seven- ed by the er unity “The a lot of folk deb wn artsis, ut at ct ists”, Wi local art comara ws and the the that sup Valera’s ails to busin members, vote ich is requir part e,” Thurb ena cri Nu ir ing ma t ity nt pat tty the lud rta de tha der n sta tici ard Bro “This wh as exc ff’s In em ie durin t Joh im.po thehis said. “T ists,” Morem ports “It’s m to tella live anwn e to par group, Texas in are mber bo sultan g scene whole Tex music ing abl ting sure it hey want to an trench when you are the melee. and chachamber con accusaget sta the isas cou artup state ofT. istsathe venue, Far Farr sai rted growin stays vib er nor make s.”ntry will set said. let out es and get thr in the Pitzer, others threw g the gam stogrie The an HO er the chamb to enact sho ran “I on ple. to y had to pla r told Rogersnd. meary peows e libr ,” andbooked Ra erley Th Ball andValera runnin throughchamber ap t.” said. “It’a sigh with eveough it and y PG-ra Neith hority ncil can ’S VOTE ndying area for the library Wimb “Guys cusstsio for ted s has aut , 0 and ord cou ryone, COUNCIL urs of dismo nts$70 tions at not being a “SOB”.

Arts an the Wimb plied I’d eve me rec it was stories and Big na work, but ” he WVLTA only the city yor Steve It like Bob Sch just ds.

In 200cil onr had.” tell fun laughed After hoseveral amend thethe e thene ut from to being an 30 lodging ne , in 201 d Cultural erley Blake Sh mes like Patit’s fun work.”

HOT – that issue. MaT is a good g Allian ed fanand and said ider 4. The nag y Coun 4 Th sta Green elton resident en, nearly bers of ce applyin s ot h ke ould su d on dem ley Cit ge a first e Nut d will ma c ote on ves HO

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october | 2015 u page 5

HOME IMPROVEMENT | PLUMBING

Repairing Leaky Faucets

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rip, drip, drip. That sound means water leaving your faucet and money leaving your wallet. A leaky faucet can increase your water bill in no time, so it’s important to act quickly.

In most cases, repairing a leaky faucet is simple work. It generally requires removing a worn washer. Even homeowners with little experience in plumbing can take care of this issue themselves.

This article focuses on the standard compression faucet — the most common style.

Others include ceramic disk, cartridge and ball type.

Fixing a compression faucet usually involves replacing a washer. Fixing others can require the replacement of O-rings or neoprene seals.

Always keep your owner’s manual for fixtures, as some may have more elaborate repair specifications than others.

For repairing a compression faucet, there are some simple steps to take before you get started.

• Cover your sink drain with a cloth or paper towel in case you drop a small part or screw.

• Prepare your wrench for action by duct-taping its jaws.

This will prevent any scratching of your fixture.

FIXING THE ISSUE Now that you’re ready for repair, it’s time to disassemble the faucet. Depending on what yours looks like, you should start by prying off the decorative cap on the handle.

After that: • Remove the handle screw; • Use a wrench to unscrew the packing nut; • Unscrew the stem; • Remove the worn seat washer (which may be held in place by a brass screw); and • Coat the new washer with plumber’s grease and reinstall FIRST STEPS the fixture.

• Always remember to shut As good as your newly off the water under the sink. installed parts look, the true You will be removing parts that test will come in turning on the essentially block the water from water. After you’ve reinstalled gushing out of your faucet, so all screws and parts, turn back it’s important to follow this first on your water and check for step. leaks.

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Shine a light on your window-shading options with Made in the Shade W indow treatments like most home improvements have evolved over time.

What was popular 20 years ago in some instances, still is, but in a much improved way. Wood and faux wood 2-1/2 inch blinds have replaced the 1 inch metal mini blind, providing a much clearer view while also being easier to clean. Very popular coverings are cellular shades, also referred to as honeycomb shades. They provide the best insulation for our hot Tex-

as sun, much more than any other covering you can install. Available in over 200 colors and with options such as bottom up/top down, motorized and cordless lift, all trouble free and child safe.

Other popular items such as woven wood natural shades are made from woods, reeds or grasses. They also give a unique and beautiful look from contemporary to rustic.

Today’s window treatments are available in colors and fabrics from soft neutrals to interesting patterns

and colors, including many of the new popular grays.

If your view is important, Made in the Shade can put up solar shades which will give you a view but also give you UV protection and stop the sun’s glare, available in protection from 90 to 99% to preserve furniture and floors.

Roller shades have also gained popularity, with over 300 patterns and colors, and these are not the old fashioned shades that spring up. They lift slowly on a continuous

lift cord.

Plantation shutters are always a classic look, adding a beauty and value when homes are appraised.

There is so much to choose from and the window professionals at Made in the Shade can help with a free consultation and price quote for the look you want. The possibilities are endless.

Made in the Shade is located 13701 Ranch Road 12 in Wimberley. Give them a call at 512-8478970.

Find your landscaping solutions at Pedernales Stone P edernales Stone, Soil and Landscaping has been providing residential landscaping services for Hays County land owners since 2012. Owner Daniel Michal and his staff put their years of experience in organic landscaping into one-stop land development. They serve Hays Country including Dripping Springs, Wimberley, Johnson City, Blanco and Spicewood.

Wide Soil Selections Their soil yard includes delivery of a wide variety of soil, mulch, san, gravel, road base and grass. Whatever you needs are from top soil spreading, to serious road grading, trenching, drainage grading and fill and soil screening, Pedernales Stone has the trucks and landscaping machines to do the job professionally and quickly. Pedernales Stone can deliver all of their landscaping soil products.

Here at the yard, we carry an excellent variety of organic soils and mulch for all of your landscape projects.

The garden soils are made with high quality Black Kow compost and are blended with organic soil amendments, including Medina Slow Release Fertilizer, making them nutrient rich and excellent choice for your gardens.

They also carry excellent quality Native Hardwood, Cedar, and Black Mulch for your gardens and trees. Get ready for fall with our split oak firewood.

We can also provide all of the common grasses including

varieties of Bermuda, St. Augustine, and Zoysia. The yard has a wide variety of large stones and flagstone in stock.

Just West Of Dripping Springs

The store and soil yard are at 2110 Highway 290 West of Dripping Springs also carries lawn and hand tools including the professional grade OX Tools. You can also find a wide variety of indoor and outdoor pottery for decorating you home or yard.

Conserve Your Water If you are interested in capturing rainwater or well storage, they carry the TEXAS TANK line of residential water storage tanks that are perfect for the task.

Customer Focused Solutions Customers looking for high quality products and services personalized for their unique needs. We are available Monday - Saturday to answer your questions.

Here at our store, we take care to provide our customers high quality products and services personalized for their unique needs. We are available Monday - Saturday to answer your questions. We will take care to provide our customers high quality products and services per-

sonalized for their unique needs.

Frequently Asked Questions 1. Do you guys deliver?

We sure do! Call the store and let us know where you need the material delivered and we’ll give you a delivery quote.

2. Can you tell me how much material I will need for my project?

Sure can! All you need to do is get the approx. square footage of the area you are working with. Give us a call or stop by the store and we'll be more then glad to help you out.

3. Can you load a pick up truck and trailer?

Our experienced operators are capable of loading all size of pick up trucks and trailers. Some exceptions might apply.

Call ahead if you have any concerns for material pick-up.

4. Are you open on the weekends?

We are open on Saturdays.

Call today and let Pedernales Stone, Soil and Landscaping assist you now in solving your landscaping issues or gardening needs. www.Pedernalesstone.com

october | 2015 u page 7

HOME IMPROVEMENT | FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Kitchen Renovations

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Many homeowners may choose to nix the ROI factor because they plan to stay in their home for life. They make every home improvement decision based on their needs and preferences.

For those with more moves in their future, ROI is more important and should be strongly considered before anything is removed, replaced or restructured.

The trick is understanding which parts of your remodel will offer you the greatest return on your financial investment. You probably won’t make back the $5,000 put into a home theater room in your basement, but you may still be OK with spending the money because you’ll get many great years of use out of it.

If there is remodeling in your future, consider what is selling in your local real estate market. Talk to Realtors and stay up to date on current buyer trends. Doing so will keep your home improvement decisions on track.

SMART KITCHEN RENOVATIONS The annual cost vs. value report from Remodeling magazine routinely finds that kitchens are the first room homebuyers consider when

october | 2015 u page 8

eturn on investment (ROI) is one of the most important aspects of home improvement, especially if you plan to sell your home within the next five to 10 years.

© FOTOLIA

looking at homes. They also return about 66 percent of initial investments, according to the most recent report.

Improvements such as ceramic tile floors or new countertops in the kitchen are at the top of the list of smart remodeling upgrades. Refinish your cabinets if they are struc-

turally sound, and consider upgrading your appliances.

Steps like this can help improve the value of your kitchen and home.

QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS Quartz is all the rage in the kitchen remodeling space as more homeowners look to

incorporate natural items into their homes.

Here are the main benefits of a quartz countertop: • Nonporous surface that doesn’t allow bacteria from food or drink spills to grow; • Resistance to heat, providing you a functional prep and serving space; and

• Resistance to scratches to accommodate the activities of a busy family kitchen.

Quartz is also great for enhancing your home’s overall design. Its natural color gradation and patterns lend it to be paired with bold, modern decorative accents in your design strategy.

What’s going on?

FOR THE LIFE OF YOUR TREES.

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Call 877.BARTLETT (877.227.8538) or visit BARTLETT.COM

We can help with SPRING PROJECTS!

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Send event submissions to christine@haysfreepress.com.

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Pedernales

Stone, Soil, & LandScaping Gravel

Sand

Crushed Limestone, 1/2” or unwashed Decomposed Crushed Granite Fairland Pink Granite Colorado River Rock, 1”, 1-3”, 3-5” Pea Gravel, 3/8” Texas Black

Bank Sand Masonry Sand (Regular) Concrete Sand (Fill)

Road Base Foundation Fill Base City Inspected Road Base

Mulch Hardwood Black Mulch Black Mulch Cedar Mulch Trail Mulch

Grass (All are pre-porder) Common Bermuda Tifway 419 Bermuda Raleigh St. Augustine Palmetto St. Augustine Pallisade Zoysia El Toro Zoysia Approximately 450 sq. ft. per pallet

Soil Chocolate Loam (top soil) Garden Soil - This blend of nutrient-rich compost, rich top soil, and orange sand is perfect for flowers and vegetables, for reviving a beaten upo lawn or spreading in areas with low grade soil to create a nutrientrich area Pro Garden Soil - Garden soil with double the amount of compost. Contains orange sand, perlite and fertilizer 4-23 for optimal performance

Landscapers Mix - This blend of nutrient-rich compost, rich top soil, decomposed granite and beneficial fertilizer 4-2-3 is great for garden areas, tree installation, and general use Top Dressing - This blend of sand and compost is perfect for topdressing your lawn Cow Compost - Fine manure compost Fill Dirt - Mix of materials, good fill material

Hours: Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

2110 Hwy 290 W., Dripping Springs, TX 78620 | Phone: 512.858.7203 | Fax: 512.858.7110 | www.PedernalesStone.com october | 2015 u page 9

HOME IMPROVEMENT | SAFETY

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Take Precautions

hen taking on any home improvement project, it is important to protect yourself from preventable injuries.

Doing so involves understanding the risks associated with your specific project, as well as equipping yourself with the proper tools.

Research shows that many Americans are seriously injured by home improvement accidents every year.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2013: • More than 511,000 people were treated in hospitals, doctors’ offices and emergency rooms for injuries related to ladder use; • Approximately 301,425 people were injured from lawn mower-related injuries; • Nearly 7,500 were treated for injuries related to power tools; and • More than 569,000 injuries were related to sofas and couches, particularly in climbing them to clean hard-to-reach areas of the home.

Don’t become a statistic. Follow the tips below for a safe home improvement project.

LADDER SAFETY One of the most dangerous places around the home is on top of a ladder. Especially if you don’t scale them very often, ladders can pose balance issues. And given the height you’re dealing with, a fall can be very dangerous.

Always place ladders on a firm, level surface and always avoid wet

ground.

Once you’re on the ladder, avoid leaning too far to one side or reaching for items. This can throw off your balance and quickly shift the weight of the ladder.

Other tips: • Never climb a ladder without someone nearby; • Keep your ladder away from electrical wires, tree limbs or other obstructions; and • Use a sturdy step ladder instead of furniture or a countertop to reach high areas.

GENERAL SAFETY Many injuries occur in far less dramatic ways than falling from a ladder.

Improper stretching and lifting techniques can do damage to your back, keeping you out of any home improvement projects until you recover from your injury.

When lifting heavy objects, it is important to separate your feet shoulder-width apart, bend your knees and lift with your legs.

Other tips: • If taking on a large project, alert your friends and family ahead of time so they will be able to check on you periodically; • Always keep a phone within reach in case of an injury; and • If working in the heat, take frequent breaks and hydrate properly. © FOTOLIA

october | 2015 u page 10

“Solutions for Solving Water Problems”

Angie Dahl

Serving the Texas Hill Country Since 1983

107 Summit Dr. Wimberley, TX 512-847-5549 www.DD-INS.net Come see us for all your insurance needs.

HIGH TIDE POOL SERVICE Quality, Dependable service since 1996

Cleaning • Repairs • Renovations Keith Miller, Owner TECL# 786

COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • SALES • SERVICE • SUPPLIES

wimberleywater.com 13620 Ranch Road 12 • Wimberley, TX (512) 847-5460 or (800) 551-9457 Mariah L. Sedwick, Office Manager

is the place

For all your Fall Projects • Building • Gardening • Celebrating • Decorating • Gift Giving Snack Bar & Clean Restrooms

512.965.3465

512-847-2356 www.wimberleyace.com october | 2015 u page 11

HOME IMPROVEMENT | TRENDS

Metal Backsplashes

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eplacing a kitchen or bathroom backsplash is one of the best ways to modernize your home’s interior design. Doing so is a simple process perfect for the crafty DIY homeowner.

Glass mosaic tiles make for a beautiful backsplash, but one material is really catching fire in the home improvement industry: metal. From stainless steel to copper, metal materials can help transform your kitchen into a contemporary, elegant focal point of your home.

Installing and caring for metal backsplashes is easy — easier than regular tile in many cases.

INSTALLATION Installing a metal backsplash in your home is a relatively straightforward process that won’t take long, depending on

the size of the project.

Most come in peel-and-stick options, while others require a strong glue to be fastened to your wall. Talk with the specialists at your home repair retailer to make sure you understand the installation specifications.

MAINTAINING YOUR METAL BACKSPLASH Taking care of your metal backsplash is an ongoing activity, especially in high-use areas such as your kitchen stove or bathroom sink.

If you choose copper, it’s

important to note that the material can change appearance over time. The natural oxidation process means that copper will darken and form a patina, which can make it appear unique and rustic. You also can choose to seal the copper to help it retain its shine and color.

Other metal tiles, such as stainless steel or iron, can actually start to rust if not properly cared for.

The good news is that with a few simple cleaning products and a regular routine, you can make your copper and metal

backsplash last a lifetime.

CLEANING YOUR METAL BACKSPLASH Always check your manufacturer’s guide to see which products are recommended, but the list below is a great starting point for gathering materials.

• Water • Dishwashing detergent • Microfiber cloth • Copper cleaner • Solvent-based sealer • Stainless steel cleaner • Vinegar and water solution • Baking soda • Rubber gloves

© FOTOLIA

october | 2015 u page 12

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Advertise in the News-Dispatch and Hays County Echo to get the eyes of Hays County on your business.

Call 512-268-7862 to start advertising today. www.HaysNewsDispatch .com

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OPEN YEAR ROUND Wednesdays at 3-7 p.m.

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HARRIS TREES & CUSTOM ROCK Serving the Texas Hill Country for 31 years Professional Tree Trimming Damage Repair • Tree Removal

James Harris, Jr. owner Wimberley, TX 512-923-8232

Patios, Fireplaces, Retaining Walls, Fully Insured, Free Estimates

www.HARRISTREESANDROCK.com october | 2015 u page 13

HOME IMPROVEMENT | PLUMBING

Installing a New Toilet

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ater leakage, cracks or rust are all great reasons to install a new toilet in your bathroom. Today’s models are highly efficient, which means you can save money on your water bill while updating your space.

Replacing your toilet is easy, requiring only a few tools and a couple of hours of work. Let’s get started.

REMOVING YOUR OLD TOILET Before adding your new throne, you have to ditch your old one. This involves a few basic steps, none more important that turning off the water at the shutoff valve.

Next: • Flush the toilet to drain all the water from both the tank and toilet bowl, which should not refill now that the water is turned off.

• Disconnect your supply line with a wrench, making sure not to damage your water pipe in the process.

• Unbolt the toilet bowl from the floor.

• Carefully lift your toilet and remove it from the room. You should consider separating the tank from the bowl to make for an easier carry.

• Remove the old wax ring from the floor with a putty or utility knife.

© FOTOLIA

REPLACING YOUR TOILET Now that your old commode is in the dumpster, it’s time to add your new one. Again, a few simple steps and careful lifting will finish the job.

october | 2015 u page 14

• Place the new wax ring, either under the toilet on the flange or directly on the floor.

• Place the toilet in position and press it down to set the

seal.

• Secure the toilet to the floor with a washer and nut on each bolt, and then tighten.

• Secure the tank to the bowl

with the required hardware and reattach the water supply line.

• Slowly turn on the water valve and check for leaks.

If you’re leak free, you’ve successfully completed your toilet installation. Install a toilet seat according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

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Need space for your home improvement project?

We can help: LockTite Storage in Dripping Springs and Wimberly

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hether you need to clear rooms for home improvement projects, store extra furniture or tools, or just clear out the garage, we’re ready

for you.

Professional Management At LockTite Storage, our professional managers go the extra mile to ensure your satisfaction. You’ll always find professional, friendly, and honest managers who care about you and your belongings, as well as manager availability after hours for emergency situations.

Dripping Springs Self Storage Managers Dee Dee was raised in the Texas self storage business and understands her clients' needs. She is proud to work for a locally owned and operated company that values and respects its clients while also supporting the Dripping Springs and surrounding communities.

Shanna Shanna, also a native Texan, is a proud Aggie! She loves helping her clients find the storage space they need to ease the stresses of moving, and she has a smile for everyone she meets!

Wimberley Self Storage Manager Property Manager Brenda, a Wimberley resident herself, loves the area and all it has to offer. A veteran of the self storage business, she not only wants to help her customers fulfill their wants and needs, but makes sure to treat them with respect and compassion. Come by and meet Brenda, you’ll be glad you did.

Unsurpassed Features LockTite Storage in Dripping Springs and Wimberly were designed and built with your storage needs in mind. Our mission is to provide the best storage

october | 2015 u page 16

Wimberley experience possible to our tenants by finding the right self-storage solution to fit their needs.

Better Solutions We believe your needs are most important, so we provide more convenient solutions to give you the flexibility to fit your need. We have wide paved driveways for easy navigation leading to units ranging from 5’x 5’ to 14’x 40’. Elevators make for easy moving into our second and third floor cooled, heated and dehumidified units. Between the two properties there are over 1,000 units.

LockTite Storage has covered parking to shelter your RV from the Texas sun and heavy thunderstorms. We have discounted packing, moving and storage supplies.

Be sure to reserve a space in advance so that we can assist you in a care-free move.

Modern Convenience & Security Manage your unit with on line payments and account management including auto payment for one less bill to remember. Our fenced property features electronic gate entry, with key fob or scan pad access, so you don’t have to remember a code – digital video cameras on site and exterior lighting so you can see and be seen. That’s peace of mind and includes afterhours emergency phone number with tenant insurance

Dripping Springs available for added protection.

Keep it Cool At LockTite Storage Dripping Springs and Wimberley we provide additional amenities to help make your self storage experience enjoyable.

Comfort cooling systems in our interior buildings make storing enjoyable

We’re Competitive Month-to-month leases for maximum flexibility, and all leases are prorated at move-in, only pay for the days you use. A free disc lock provided with each unit. You will find that we have fair and competitive pricing. A clean facility for your belongings with a FREE truck and trailers for moving in and moving out, electrical outlet available for covered parking spaces and electrical outlets within convenient reach of all units.

We are a community partner working to build and encourage neighbors, businesses and each other.

Contact us Visit LockTite Storage of Wimberley at 16955 Ranch Road 12 in Wimberley or call 512-8655309. Visit LockTite Storage of Dripping Springs at 3000 US Hwy 290 E. in Dripping Springs or call 512-894-3303. For more information, visit www.

LockTiteStorage.com.