Preparing for Winter: Fall Home & Car Care
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2021 • Preparing for Winter: Fall Home and Car Care
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3 Popular renovation projects during the pandemic 4 Craftsman home renovation ideas 4 How to pick paint for home interiors 5 Simple ways to incorporate reclaimed wood in your home 6 Design ideas to give your home a farmhouse feel 6 How to maintain hardwood floors 8 4 apps that can make driving safer 8 Did you know? 10 How drivers can handle suddenly unsafe driving conditions 10 Tips before buying new tires
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11 Signs of driver fatigue 12 Tips for first-time RV drivers 12 How to help seniors adapt to automotive tech 13 Fuel costs are worth considering when planning to travel in an RV 14 Classic car restoration for beginners 14 How to road trip in an electric car
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Preparing for Winter: Fall Home and Car Care • 2021
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Popular renovation projects during the pandemic
S
pending so much time at home during the pandemic led many homeowners to spruce up their homes. According to HomeAdvisor’s 2021 State of Home Spending report, spending on home improvements increased by an average of $745 per household in 2020. In the face of travel restrictions and social distancing guidelines, many homeowners pivoted in 2020 and spent money they initially intended to use for vacations on home improvements. Though many such projects required the services of a professional contractor, others, including the most popular project among the 5,000 homeowners who participated in the HomeAdvisor report, were do-ityourself endeavors. That not only gave homeowners’ homes a new look, but
also gave them something to do during quarantine. The following are the five most popular home improvement projects of 2020 according to the HomeAdvisor report.
1. Interior painting:
Just under 35 percent of participants reported taking on an interior painting project in 2020. Interior painting projects can be perfect for DIYers, but homeowners also can trust this task to skilled professionals.
2. Bathroom renovations:
Real estate professionals routinely report how much prospective buyers love updated bathrooms, so it’s no surprise that roughly 31 percent of homeowners who took part in the HomeAdvisor report
indicated they renovated their bathrooms in 2020.
3. Flooring:
Floors took on a lot of extra traffic during the pandemic, so it shouldn’t be too surprising that flooring projects were popular in 2020. More than one-fourth of participants told HomeAdvisor their homes were updated with a new floor during the pandemic.
4. Landscaping:
With nowhere else to go to escape the daily grind in 2020, many homeowners took to their yards. Twenty-four percent of those homeowners reported making their backyard retreats more appealing by repairing or upgrading the landscaping
outside their homes. In fact, the average homeowner reported completing 3.4 landscaping projects in 2020.
5. Kitchen:
Another project that makes sense given the circumstances, kitchen renovations were the fifth most popular home improvement project in 2020. Restaurant closures and social distancing guidelines led many people to dine in more often than they otherwise would, and just under 23 percent of homeowners reported renovating their kitchens in 2020. As the world gradually emerges from the pandemic, many homeowners who caught the renovation bug while in quarantine also will be emerging with what feels like an entirely new home.
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2021 • Preparing for Winter: Fall Home and Car Care
Craftsman home renovation ideas
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raftsman homes trace their roots to the late 19th century. An architectural style inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement that flourished in Europe and North America for roughly 40 years between 1880 and 1920, the American Craftsman home has endured into the 21st century thanks to its beauty and the unique feel its homes inspire.
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Many craftsman homes were built nearly a century ago if not even earlier. That means these homes may be in need of some renovations that make them more functional in modern times without sacrificing their historic beauty.
• Siding: Craftsman homes are instantly recognizable from the street. Homeowners who want to maintain that authentic craftsman feel must carefully consider their choice of material when replacing the siding on their homes. The siding manufacturer Allura notes that fiber cement siding can be a great option for homeowners who want to replicate the original design of craftsman homes built with sported board-and-batten siding. Fiber cement siding gives the appearance of wood when installed and does not fade quickly or require significant maintenance. • Exterior color: Homeowners need not feel beholden to certain colors when replacing siding or repainting their homes’ exteriors. Nautical color schemes featuring navy blue exteriors with white accents can highlight features that are unique to craftsman homes,
How to pick paint for home interiors
but more understated colors and tones can work just as well. • Porches: An expansive, welcoming front porch that makes for the perfect place to relax and read when the outdoors beckons is a telltale feature of craftsman homes. Furniture options abound when homeowners are looking to upgrade the living spaces just outside the front door of their craftsman homes. Adirondack chairs can make a porch a relaxing place to enjoy a morning coffee or post-dinner digestif, while wicker furniture can help homeowners establish a relaxing vibe for summer. A porch swing or hammock can make that relaxing vibe resonate even more. • Real wood cabinets: Cabinets are a popular avenue homeowners look to when they
want to give their kitchens a new look without breaking the bank. When upgrading cabinets in a craftsman home, the home renovation experts at HGTV note that craftsman-style kitchen cabinets often feature straight lines and minimal ornamentation. Cabinets are typically made from heavy woods like quartersawn oak, hickory, cherry, or maple. HGTV notes that updating the cabinets in a craftsman home often requires custom cabinetmakers, so the project may be more expensive than it would be if replacing the cabinets in a different style of home. Craftsman homes are instantly recognizable thanks to many of their unique features. There are various ways to renovate craftsman homes yet still maintain their authentic feel.
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any components combine to define a home’s interior. Some homeowners may be partial to certain styles, such as ultra modern or farmhouse, while others may opt for a more traditional look that cannot necessarily be categorized as one style or another. Though many homeowners may spend considerable time and devote a lot of energy to making their home embody a certain style, those who aren’t willing to commit to a particular look can lean on one component to make a stylish statement all their own: paint.
dominant color from a patterned decorative pillow or piece of furniture, and then look for the same shade to paint the walls. A photograph of the item can be handy when visiting the paint store.
Color can be a part of every homeowner’s design arsenal. Bold colors can be used to create a stunning accent wall, while homes with open concepts often utilize color to define rooms. Homeowners who want to revitalize their home interiors can do so with paint, and this approach doesn’t require homeowners to commit to a whole new design style.
• Utilize paint to create the vibe you want. The home renovation experts at This Old House note that colors evoke an emotional response. Cool colors like blue and green give off a relaxing vibe, which makes them ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms. Red is an intense color that can up the energy ante in any room, which can make it an option for homeowners who want to spark debate around their dinner tables.
Though paint may seem simple to novices, homeowners who have painted home interiors in the past recognize how complicated the process of picking paint can be. Paint retailers have a seemingly endless swatch of paint colors to choose from, and before long homeowners heads may be spinning as they try to narrow down their options. The following tips can help homeowners pick the perfect paint for their home interiors. • Take stock, and photographs, of your current furnishings. Many interior designers rely on a simple technique when recommending color schemes to their clients. Choose a standout color from existing furnishings, such as the
• Lighten colors as you go up. The home renovation and design experts at HGTV recommend picking darker color values for the floor, medium color values for the walls and light values for the ceiling. This approach mimics the look of the great outdoors, where the ground tends to be darker than the trees, and the trees are darker than the blue sky.
• Give personal preference its place at the table. Though interior designers may have years of experience picking paint colors for a home and researchers may have determined how certain colors can be utilized to create a desired ambiance in a given room, ultimately homeowners are the ones who will be living in the home. So it’s important that homeowners pick colors they like for their home interiors.
Paint is an inexpensive way to transform a room. Homeowners can rely on a combination of color strategies and their personal preferences as they try to decide which colors they want on their interior walls.
Preparing for Winter: Fall Home and Car Care • 2021
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Simple ways to incorporate reclaimed wood into your home
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omes come in many sizes and styles. But whether your home is a palatial postmodern masterpiece or a cozy farmhouse, reclaimed wood can be utilized to create an aweinspiring interior. Reclaimed wood serves both aesthetic and practical purposes. Visually stunning, reclaimed wood also is a great way to make use of old-growth forest wood. Why is that significant? According to the United States Forest Service, just 3 percent of old-growth forest has survived into the second decade of the 21st century. Old-growth forest wood like that from longleaf pine trees has long been touted as excellent building material, but the pine utilized today comes from trees that are cut down when they’re young. Reclaimed wood taken from old or demolished homes built with oldgrowth forest wood offers access to this highly valued building material while also providing the environmental benefits that come with reusing existing materials. Reclaimed wood can be incorporated into a home’s interior rather easily, and the results are often stunning.
• Accent wall: Transforming a wall into an accent wall with reclaimed wood is a simple project that won’t affect the existing design of a home’s interior. A living room or home office can be given a whole new look with the addition of an accent wall made from reclaimed wood. Homeowners who want their
bedrooms to give off the vibe of a rustic retreat can consider adding an accent wall made of reclaimed wood.
• Furniture: Reclaimed wood also can be put to use, or reuse, as furniture. A home office desk made from reclaimed wood can be both stunning and sturdy, while end tables and coffee tables made from reclaimed wood can add some unique character to a living room. • Kitchen islands: Homeowners who aspire to have a farmhouse kitchen can consider reclaimed wood when creating their kitchen islands. Reclaimed wood can be used to make the body of the island, complete with cabinets and drawers, that sits beneath the countertop where cooks will prepare their meals.
• Storage beds: Guest rooms tend to be smaller than other rooms in the house, and that means little room for furniture like dressers. Rather than cramming lots of furniture into a small room, homeowners can utilize reclaimed wood to create storage bed frames. The frames won’t take up extra space in the room, reassuring guests that they won’t be spending a weekend in cramped quarters. And the rustic look of reclaimed wood storage beds can be an instant stunner when guests arrive. Reclaimed wood can be incorporated into a home in myriad ways. This stunning, ecofriendly design choice can add instant appeal to any home.
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2021 • Preparing for Winter: Fall Home and Car Care
Design ideas to give your home a farmhouse feel
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armhouse style homes are having a moment. A 2020 survey from Homes.com asked more than 5,000 adults across the United States about their favorite house style from a list that included bohemian craftsman, mid-century modern ranch, French chateau, and Tudor, among others. Modern farmhouse was the runaway winner, as participants in 42 of the 50 states indicated this simple, cozy style was their favorite.
Home renovation projects can help homeowners put their own unique stamp on their homes, and such projects can be both aesthetic and functional in nature. The following are some farmhouse design elements homeowners can consider as they look to transform their home interiors with this popular style in mind. • Exposed beams: Exposed beams instantly evoke images of a farmhouse. The home improvement experts at BobVila. com note that this rustic
renovation project can utilize real wood or faux beams that look like the real thing. Decorative beams that have nothing to do with a home’s structural integrity can be installed by skilled do-ityourselfers. However, even faux beams are heavy, and BobVila. com recommends homeowners have an engineer assess their existing structure prior to installation.
• Distressed wood finishes: Distressing is designed to make something look less than perfect. Distressed wood finishes can be found throughout many farmhouse style homes. Furniture and picture frames can provide the distressed look farmhouse fans are looking for. This is a relatively inexpensive project that many homeowners can tackle on their own after watching some online tutorials that recommend the right tools and techniques to get the job done right. • Kitchen sink: Many components combine to create a truly classic farmhouse kitchen. But perhaps no component is
more essential than the classic farmhouse sink. The renovation experts at HGTV note that a classic farmhouse sink features a deep, wide basin. Farmhouse sinks are large enough to handle all the dishes that come after a big family meal. Old-fashioned porcelain sinks are worth consideration by homeowners who want their kitchen sinks to evoke a traditional farmhouse feel. • Countertops: HGTV recommends butcher block countertops for homeowners who favor European farmhouse style. Homeowners overhauling their kitchens to create a farmhouse feel should consider installing a large island with a walnut butcher block countertop for an authentic farmhouse feel. Farmhouse style homes are wildly popular. Some simple renovations can help homeowners with a fondness for farmhouse style bring this classic look into their homes.
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How to maintain hardwood floors
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ardwood floors have long been sought after by home buyers. In its 2019 “Remodeling Impact Report,” the National Association of Realtors® revealed that new wood flooring was the fourth most popular project to attract buyers.
Of course, hardwood floors aren’t just for buyers. Homeowners who already have hardwood floors know just how impressive these floors can be, especially when they’re well maintained. Maintaining wood floors is not necessarily as straightforward as it may seem, and homeowners may benefit from a tutorial on how too keep the floors under their feet looking good. To polish or not to polish?
Polishing floors is an inexpensive way to keep them looking good. But the home improvement experts at BobVila.com note that not all floors can be polished, and determining which ones can depends on the finish. Floors with waterproof barriers such as urethane will benefit from routine polishing. However, floors with penetrating finishes like tung oil will need to be waxed rather than polished. What finish is on the floor?
The Hardwood Distributor’s Association recommends a simple way for homeowners to determine which type of finish is on their hardwood floors. Homeowners are advised to rub a finger across the floor. If no smudge appears, then the floor is surface sealed. If a smudge is created, then the floor has been treated with a penetrating seal. The HDA also notes that recently installed wood floors are likely surface sealed. How often should floors be polished or waxed?
Wood flooring professionals recommend polishing floors that can be polished once every few months. Waxing wood floors does not need to be done as frequently, and most can benefit from a fresh coat of wax every 12 to 18 months.
What can I do on a daily basis? Some simple tricks and daily maintenance can help wood
floors maintain their impressive look.
• Utilize floor mats. The HDA notes that floor mats near entryways can reduce the time it takes to clean hardwood floors and reduce the wear and tear they endure. For example, tiny particles like dirt can scratch the floor and contribute to the kind of minor damage that adds up to significant scarring over time. Floor mats near entryways ensures that most of that dirt never makes it to the wood floors. • Vacuum without a beater bar. Some vacuums contain beater bars, which are designed to pick up human hair, dog hair and other things that conventional vacuums may not be able to pick up. The HDA advises vacuuming without the beater bar, as it can contribute to small scratches in the floor. Sweeping with a highquality broom or microfiber cloth is another way to pick up dirt without damaging floors.
• Use manufacturerrecommended cleaning products. Local home improvement stores sell a host of hardwood floor cleaning products, but the HDA notes that many flooring manufacturers now sell their own hardwood floor cleaners designed specifically for their floors. These products are likely homeowners’ best bets. Homeowners who can’t find them can seek recommendations from a local flooring retailer. Hardwood floors are attractive for many reasons. And they look even more stunning, and last much longer, when homeowners make an effort to maintain them.
Preparing for Winter: Fall Home and Car Care • 2021
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2021 • Preparing for Winter: Fall Home and Car Care
4 apps that can make driving safer
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echnology has changed the world in ways too numerous to count. Many of those changes have made the world a safer place, but a growing dependence on smartphones, particularly when behind the wheel, continues to put the safety of drivers, their passengers, fellow motorists, and pedestrians in jeopardy.
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates that distracted driving was responsible for the deaths of more than 3,100 people in the United States in 2019. The threat of distracted driving is just as significant beyond U.S. borders as well. That includes Canada, where estimates from Transport Canada’s National Collision Database indicate 21 percent of the country’s fatal collisions involved distracted drivers. Though smartphones are not the lone distraction drivers face, they do pose a significant threat. But
smartphones also can help drivers be safer behind the wheel. The following are four apps that drivers can install on their smartphones that were designed to make modern driving safer.
1. SafeDrive: The SafeDrive app
can block all the textual apps in a phone, removing a major threat to drivers’ ability to concentrate behind the wheel. Drivers who utilize SafeDrive can still make phone calls, but they won’t be able to receive or send messages.
2. LifeSaver: The LifeSaver app
runs silently in the background and then wakes up and locks the phone when a driver begins driving. Parents of young drivers should know that the app’s “Family View” feature can enable them to track their children’s driving and even see when kids are behind the wheel so
parents won’t contact them. The app also can alert loved ones when drivers arrive at their destination.
3. TextDrive: This app sends
auto response messages to people who try to call or text drivers while they’re behind the wheel. Drivers can reply to messages using voice commands as well.
4. DriveWell: Drivers who want
some insight into their driving habits should consider the DriveWell app. The app is designed to provide drivers with feedback about their driving habits. Drivers can access trip summaries, details on their maneuvers and even track their speeds. Drivers interested in utilizing technology to become safer drivers can try various apps designed to reduce driver distractions.
Did you know?
Modern cars are technological marvels, and it turns out drivers may value tech over all else, including their choice of automaker. A 2017 study from Autotrader asked 1,000 participants an assortment of questions about technology and car buying. Roughly 60 percent of millennial car shoppers and more than 40 percent of baby boomers indicated they would switch vehicle brands just to get the technology features they want. Drivers are even willing to pay extra for their preferred tech. The Autotrader study found that
the average shopper would pay an extra $2,276 to get the right tech features.
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Preparing for Winter: Fall Home and Car Care • 2021
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2021 • Preparing for Winter: Fall Home and Car Care
How drivers can handle Tips before suddenly unsafe buying new tires driving conditions
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he chance to take in idyllic landscapes and sun-soaked views is a big part of what makes road trips so appealing. When traveling during certain times of year, such as spring and fall, seasonal landscapes dotted with vivid colors can be especially stunning. Prior to embarking on a road trip, travelers can’t be blamed for getting caught up in the sights they’re on the cusp of seeing. But it’s equally important that drivers take steps to prepare for unsafe driving conditions. Even if the forecast is nothing but sunny skies, driving conditions can suddenly take a turn for the worse. The following are a handful of unsafe conditions drivers may encounter on the road, and what they can to do to make it through such situations safe and sound.
• Aggressive drivers: Aggressive driving or road rage is a significant issue, more so than some drivers may recognize. A 2016 survey from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that nearly 80 percent of drivers expressed significant anger, aggression or road rage behind the wheel at least once in the previous 12 months. The insurance experts at Geico® recommend that motorists who encounter aggressive drivers
recommend drivers double the cushion between their vehicles and the ones in front of them when driving in rain, snow, sleet, and other adverse weather conditions. Doing so can help to offset the slower brake time that occurs when driving in bad weather.
do their best to stay away from them. Consider safely changing lanes, gradually slowing down or even exiting the highway. Geico® advises against stopping, as that can lead to potentially dangerous confrontations. • Bad weather: Bad weather can include anything from snowfall to driving rain to thick fog. Though it’s wise for drivers to consult the weather forecast prior to hitting the road, no forecast is 100 percent accurate, which underscores the importance of knowing what to do when conditions suddenly take a turn for the worse. If inclement weather appears unexpectedly, slow down and be sure to leave extra room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. The automotive analytics firm J.D. Power notes that many experts
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• Debris: Road debris can include anything from materials that get blown away from roadside work sites to falling rock to tire treads to items that fall off of other vehicles. The suddenness of and the potentially serious consequences of being hit by or hitting debris is why a proactive approach is ideal. Avoid tailgating so you have ample room to maneuver should anything fall into the road. It’s also important to leave room on the side of your vehicle so you can swerve out of the way. On especially long road trips, share driving duties so whoever is behind the wheel is fresh and alert. Alertness improves reaction time, making it much more likely drivers can avoid debris. The open road has its hazards. But drivers who plan ahead and know what to do when encountering adverse conditions can ensure road trips are memorable for all the right reasons.
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T
hough vehicles can’t function without them, tires are something few drivers think about until something goes wrong. A roadside flat tire or a tire rotation recommendation from a mechanic during a routine oil change appointment may be the only time many drivers give much thought to their tires. That no doubt leads to some confusion about what to do when tires inevitably need to be replaced. The automotive resource Kelley Blue Book notes that the life expectancy of most tires falls between 25,000 and 50,000 miles. That’s a big gap, and car owners can check their vehicle manuals to see if their vehicle manufacturer recommends a more specific replacement interval. It’s worth noting that mileage is not the only barometer drivers should use to determine if they need to buy new tires. The following tips can help drivers determine if now is the time to outfit their vehicle with new tires. • Measure the tread. KBB notes that a tire assessment should always include measuring the amount of remaining tread. Drivers can do this on their own in various ways. One method involves looking at the tread wear bars, which are little bridges in the grooves between the ridges. If the bars are even with the tread pattern, then the tire has very little tread remaining and must be replaced. The penny or quarter test is a popular
way to determine if tires must be replaced. Insert a penny or quarter into the center of the tread between two ridges with Lincoln’s or Washington’s head facing you. If you can see the very top of the head or the space above the head, the tire must be replaced. If only a little bit of hair is visible, then the tire is nearing its end. The tire has sufficient remaining tread if the some of the forehead is concealed. • Check for other signs of wear and tear. Little remaining tread is not the only sign tires must be replaced. Tires with cracked sidewalls, discoloration and/or bulging need to be replaced. • Confirm a larger issue isn’t lurking. Uneven wear on tires is typically a byproduct of a larger issue. Though tires that have worn unevenly will need to be replaced, replacing them without correcting the larger issue will only lead to more uneven wear on the new tires. That’s a costly mistake. KBB notes that poor wheel alignment or suspension issues are typically to blame for uneven wear. This issue can be fixed and should be addressed prior to purchasing a new set of tires. Tires sometimes exhibit telltale signs that they need to be replaced. Before buying replacement tires, drivers can inspect their existing ones and ask their mechanic to confirm that a larger issue isn’t affecting their performance.
Signs of driver fatigue
Preparing for Winter: Fall Home and Car Care • 2021
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F
ew things elicit a sense of unbridled adventure as much as a road trip. Unlike more traditional vacations with carefully planned itineraries, road trips are a less formal, more flexible way to travel. The sense of control drivers have on road trips can help make such excursions feel more liberating. But as any veteran road tripper knows, that control can begin to wane as drivers experience fatigue. Driver fatigue is a serious safety concern. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that each year roughly 100,000 policereported crashes involve drowsy driving. The National Safety Council notes that drowsy driving accounts for more than 1,500 fatalities every year. Learning to recognize the signs of driver fatigue can help road trippers know when it’s time to put their vehicles in park or hand over the keys to a fellow traveler. The warning signs of driver fatigue can manifest themselves in various ways, affecting drivers’ bodies and minds and their performance behind the wheel.
Body
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine notes there are various ways the body exhibits signs of driver fatigue. An inability to stop yawning and having difficulty keeping eyes open are two telltale signs of driver fatigue. Drivers experiencing fatigue also might have trouble keeping their head up and find themselves nodding off. Drivers who are blinking with greater frequency than normal and are rubbing and itching their eyes also are showing signs of fatigue.
Mind
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The mind also is affected by driver fatigue. The AASM notes that fatigued drivers often cannot remember driving the last few miles. Drivers also may feel restless, irritable, impatient, or even aggressive as they become fatigued. Difficulty focusing attention on the road and daydreaming are some additional mental signs that drivers are fatigued.
The National Safety Council notes that drowsy driving accounts for more than
1,500 fatalities every year.
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Fatigue also manifests itself through erratic driving. The AASM notes that fatigued drivers may miss road signs, drift out of their lane and have difficulty maintaining their speed. Passengers may not notice the physical and mental signs of driver fatigue, though they can do their part and look for them during road trips, especially if drivers have been behind the wheel for a long time. Passengers who notice the driving-related signs of fatigue should offer to take over immediately or strongly encourage drivers to pull over. Drivers who are starting to drift into other lanes, missing street signs and/or tailgating other motorists should be asked to hand over the keys right away, as this behavior can greatly increase the risk of accidents. The open road beckons millions of drivers every year. Drivers who answer that call should recognize the threat posed by driver fatigue and get off the road right away if they begin to feel drowsy.
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2021 • Preparing for Winter: Fall Home and Car Care
Tips for first-time RV drivers
W
hether it’s the welcoming weather or the chance to follow a favorite football team or, of course, the awe-inspiring foliage, fall compels many people to hit the open road. A car or truck might suffice for a day trip or weekend getaway, but those who want to travel more extensively often do so in an RV. Recreational vehicles, or RVs, provide a taste of home away from home for millions of people every year. RVs allow people to visit even the most remote locations without having to worry about finding food or lodging. As welcoming as the interior of an RV can be, it’s also easy for first-time RV drivers to feel a little intimidated. RVs are the largest vehicles many people will ever operate, and even long-time drivers will likely need some time to adjust. That adjustment period can go smoothly if drivers take steps to grow more comfortable behind the wheel before embarking on their trips.
• Recognize that practice makes perfect. A cross country RV trip is a dream vacation for many people, but drivers must learn to
crawl before they can walk. RVs are much bigger and heavier than cars and trucks, and practice runs can help drivers grow acclimated to that size. Don’t begin a practice run without first noting the class and height of the vehicle. The online camper resource Camper Report notes that Class C RVs average 10 feet in height, while Class A RVs are typically between 13 and 14 feet tall. Measure the height of your RV prior to your first practice run so you can be sure you can make it beneath all overpasses on your route.
• Take a companion along. Drivers behind the wheel of a car or truck may not give a second thought to driving in reverse or navigating their way around parking lots. But such situations require some forethought, and even a little help, when driving an RV for the first time. A traveling companion can direct drivers into and out of parking spots until they grow more acclimated to operating an RV. • Utilize leveling blocks. RV leveling blocks help RVs stay level when parked on sloped surfaces. The RV experts at TheRVGeeks.
com note that RVs need to be level in order for equipment to work properly. That’s problematic if you park at a campsite with uneven ground. Even if equipment is functional when parked on marginally sloped surfaces, navigating your way through an RV parked on such ground is inconvenient if not annoying. Leveling blocks also can keep jacks from sinking into soft ground, making them an inexpensive yet useful accessory for any RV trip.
• Practice dumping your tanks. Drivers whose RVs have toilets will eventually need to dump their waste. Drivers should practice this in advance of their first trip so they are practiced when the time comes to do it on the road. Tutorials on YouTube can teach drivers how to dump their tanks. Drivers also can invest in a highly rated, thick sewer hose to avoid being sprayed with waste while out on the road. RV travel is a great way to experience the open road. Firsttime RV drivers can try various strategies to get used to what it’s like to be behind the wheel of these unique vehicles.
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How to help seniors adapt to automotive tech
M
odern automobiles are more technologically advanced than ever before. That tech isn’t just making driving more comfortable and convenient, but also more safe.
In a recent analysis of motor vehicle accidents, researchers at the International Institute for Highway Safety found that vehicles with blind spot and lane departure warning systems were involved in 11 percent fewer sideswipes and head-on crashes than cars that did not feature such systems. In addition, the IIHS estimates that the number of automobile crashes in the United States could be decreased by 85,000 each year if every vehicle were outfitted with a lane departure warning system. Driver assistance systems have made driving safer for millions of people across the globe, but one demographic may need some extra help adapting to modern vehicles, and may even need a little extra encouragement to utilize tech that can keep them safe behind the wheel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that, in 2018, the United States was home to 45 million licensed drivers aged 65 and over. That marks a 60 percent increase since 2000. Though seniors’ perceived unwillingness or inability to utilize modern technology is often overstated, some aging drivers may need a little extra help as they try to learn how to use assistance technologies in their vehicles.
• Learn the tech yourself. Assistance technologies are not all one and the same. Vehicle manufacturers have their own systems and there can be a learning curve when adapting to a new one. If you aspire to teach a senior how to utilize the assistance technologies
in his or her vehicle, first learn the tech on your own. If both you and your aging friend or family member own a Subaru, chances are you already know how to use the tech in your loved one’s vehicle. If you drive cars made by different manufacturers, visit the dealership where your loved one bought his or her car and ask for a quick tutorial on all the safety features in the vehicle. Salesman demonstrate these features every day, so it shouldn’t take long for them to show you the ropes.
• Be patient. Each person adapts to a new technology at his or her own pace. It’s important to remain patient when teaching aging drivers how to use the tech in their vehicles. Old habits die hard, and while some drivers may quickly adapt to tech like backup cameras, others may not be so quick to abandon driving techniques they’ve been safely using for decades. Stay the course, remain patient and allow senior drivers to adapt at their own pace. • Teach one tech at a time. It can be overwhelming for drivers of all ages to adapt overnight to all the tech in their new vehicles. When teaching senior drivers how to utilize various driver assistance technologies, take it one tech at a time. When coupled with your patience, this approach can help seniors avoid being overwhelmed and increases the likelihood that they will embrace the tech in their vehicles.
Many senior drivers utilize driver assistance technologies every day. A patient and methodical approach to showing seniors how their vehicles can help them stay safe behind the wheel can be a road map to helping seniors adapt to life in modern vehicles.
Fuel costs are worth considering when planning to travel in an RV
Preparing for Winter: Fall Home and Car Care • 2021
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or RV enthusiasts, few if any means of traveling can compare with hitting the open road in an RV. Travel enthusiasts who have never before traveled in an RV might be intrigued by that enthusiasm and the freedom that comes with hitting the open road without having to worry about hotel costs and checkout times. Though those are great reasons to consider traveling in an RV, vacationers should build fuel costs into their travel budgets. That’s because RVs typically do not get great gas mileage. According to the online RV resource RVshare.com, the cost of gas for an RV can be hard to predict, as fuel prices can fluctuate wildly depending on the time of year and where people are when they need to gas up their RVs. However, predicting the gas mileage an RV gets is a little simpler, and RVshare notes that typically depends on which type of
RV travelers are using. For example, class A RVs, which typically feature a flat vertical front and large windows, may only get about six to eight miles per gallon. Class C RVs are typically built on a truck chassis and get better gas mileage than Class A RVs, averaging somewhere between 10 and 13 miles per gallon. It’s important to note that these figures are just estimates. Difficult terrain, such as steep mountains, can reduce gas mileage even further. Despite the sticker shock they may experience at the pump, travelers interested in RVs should not let that deter them from climbing into an RV and hitting the open road. The cost of fueling up may not exceed the cost of lodging, which RV travelers won’t need. And RV drivers can save even more money by cooking their own meals in the kitchens or kitchenettes that are standard in most RVs.
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2021 • Preparing for Winter: Fall Home and Car Care
Classic car restoration for beginners
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hey’re eye-catching, often exotic and always call to mind a bygone era. Classic cars are undeniably unique and their unrivaled automotive appeal has inspired legions of fans. That appeal also has compelled many to try their hand at classic car restoration. Restoring a classic car can be a rewarding hobby, particularly the first time a vehicle emerges from its owner’s garage and hits the open road. Car buffs interested in restoring a classic car of their own can consider various factors before they lift the hood on this challenging yet rewarding hobby.
Time and Money
It’s hard to know if a classic car restoration will cost owners more time or money, but restoration novices should expect to spend a lot of both as they work to restore a ride to its former glory. CarsDirect.com estimates that a restoration done by a professional shop can cost anywhere from $40,000 to $60,000, and that does not necessarily include the cost of the vehicle. If the financial commitment raises an eyebrow, perhaps would-be car guys and gals should look away from the estimated time it takes to restore a classic car. CarsDirect notes that it can take around 1,000 hours for DIYers to restore a classic car. The excitement of restoring a classic car can quickly wear off if owners don’t have enough time and/ or money to keep the project going at a steady pace.
The Car
Some car buffs may already envision which type of car they want to restore. Some may want to restore a classic Ford Mustang like the one they drove in high school, while others with a flare for automotive history might want to restore a 1930s classic. Whatever your preference, make sure you find a car that won’t bust your budget. Even the initial cost to purchase the car from a local salvage yard can be deceiving. Some cars might only be affordable because they’ve experienced such extensive damage that the cost to restore them will be especially high. It’s good to know what you’re looking for as you begin to scour newspaper classified ads or visit local salvage yards. But allow yourself some room for flexibility in regard to the type of car you’re willing to restore. That can ensure you aren’t breaking your budget right away or overcommitting yourself to a project that may prove beyond your range of abilities. Online car forums can be great places to get some insight into restoration, especially for beginners.
The Project
In addition to determining which car to get and how much time and money you can realistically devote to the restoration project, car enthusiasts must determine which tools they’ll need, where they’re going to work on the project and the availability of discounted parts. Discounted parts can help offset considerable restoration costs, so access to a local seller or salvage yard can be a significant advantage. The internet has made finding parts easier, as resources like CheapAutoParts.com can be invaluable. A place to work also is a must-have, so garages may need to be outfitted to make projects more enjoyable. Tools also can be costly, though CarsDirect notes that different steps in the process require different tools. That can make it easier to spread out the cost of buying new tools. Classic car restoration can be an engaging hobby. Novices are urged to learn as much about restoration as possible before they decide to fully commit to this potentially rewarding endeavor.
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How to road trip in an electric car S
easoned travelers know that few things match the excitement of taking to the open road. Whether you’re heading off for parts unknown or following a carefully planned itinerary, a road trip promises to be a unique experience. Drivers can up the uniqueness ante even further by taking an electric car on their next road trip. Many people who take driving vacations may fly into a new city or country and then rent a car as they prepare to hit the open road. Electric vehicles, or EVs, have become increasingly available in rental fleets in recent years. Travelers interested in trying something new may be intrigued by the chance to get behind the wheel of an EV on their next road trips. This can be a great chance for drivers who are interested in one day purchasing their own EVs to get their feet wet. Some drivers may not know what to expect when taking a long trip in an EV. Though it’s understandable to have some hesitation, the following are some ways to navigate your first extended trip in an EV.
• Determine the charging time of your vehicle. The automotive experts at J.D. Power note that EVs come with different types of charging systems. Level 1 are the most readily available EVs, and these come with a standard 120-volt three prong plug that’s common in modern homes in the United States. That’s convenient, but charging using a Level 1 outlet may take a significant amount of time and only provide a few miles per hour of charging. If you’re renting an EV, confirm which type of car you’re getting and emphasize to the rental agency that you prefer a car that can be charged easily and effectively. One that can be
charged overnight and provide hundreds of miles of driving time after a full charge is ideal. • Look for EV-friendly lodging. Many hotels now feature charging stations exclusively for guests with EVs. Some hotels include the cost of utilizing such stations in their parking fees, while others may charge an additional amount. Either way, the convenience of finding a hotel with its own charging station outweighs any extra costs, as cars can be charged overnight while guests are asleep, leaving more time to travel in a vehicle that’s fully charged each morning. • Find some RV parks along your route. RVs have required charging stations for years, so RV parks typically have these stations available for a nominal fee of around $50. RVs typically are Level 2, so EV drivers that require Level 2 charging systems should be able to charge their vehicles at RV parks. In addition, many RV parks now also provide charging stations for Level 1 vehicles, though drivers should confirm which parks have such offerings prior to embarking on their trips. • Drive in moderate weather. The software experts at Geotab note that cold weather affects EV range. Though battery thermal management systems have been designed to keep batteries within an optimal temperature range to minimize loss in battery performance, battery range is adversely affected when driving in extreme cold. Geotab notes that 70 F is the trip efficiency sweet spot. Drivers can embrace various strategies to keep electric vehicles running strong on long road trips.
Preparing for Winter: Fall Home and Car Care • 2021
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