Fall Home & Garden: Sept. 11, 2013: The Daily Dispatch

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Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2013

Home improvement projects perfect for fall. . . . . . . . . . . 2 How to rake leaves more efficiently. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Create a lighting scheme that works. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Tips for unclogging drains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Budget-friendly outdoor renovation ideas . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Shade trees naturally keep homes cool. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 How to prevent tip-over accidents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Painting prep of primary importance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Preparing a home for entertaining. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Shed shopping savvy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Safely clear gutters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 How to make a home handicap accessible. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Give a room a new look without breaking the bank. . . . . . 4 Powering up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

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The Daily Dispatch

Fall Home & Garden

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Home improvement projects perfect for fall certain range, and that range is often within 70o to 80o F, which makes fall a great time to install such floors. Colder temperatures can make it difficult for the flooring to dry and bond, which will prove problematic down the road.

What’s more, many people entertain friends and family come late fall and into the holiday season, and it can be difficult to do so if you are busy installing new flooring.

ome improvement projects can add value to a home and do-it-yourselfers know the sweat-equity that goes into such projects can give homeowners a greater sense of pride in their homes. But no two home improvement projects are the same, and homeowners should know that certain projects are best tackled during certain times of the year.

Fall is a great season to work on your house, as the weather is often at its most agreeable once the summer heat has gone and before winter weather arrives. The following are a handful of fall-friendly home improvement projects for homeowners looking to improve their homes.

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Painting projects

Painting is another home improvement project that seems tailor-made for fall. A fresh coat of paint or a new color scheme around the house can give a home an entirely new look and feel. But paint can be pungent and the aromas Roof repair may last if it’s applied at a time Whether you’re repairing of year when it can’t dry while or replacing the roof, fall is a the windows are wide open. great time of year to dust off Paint fumes inside a home can the ladder and get some work make the home uninhabitable, done on your roof for a variety but painting at a time of year of reasons. First and foremost, like the fall, when you can keep fall is ideal for roof work the windows open during and because you won’t have to be after the project, can help air Fall is an ideal time of year to tackle home painting projects. up on the roof with the summer the home out. heat bearing down on you. This But interior painting isn’t into the home. Whether you to offset the elements, and it dangerous to be up on the can make the project move the only painting project need your windows replaced open windows in the fall won’t roof at all.

Addressing leaks in along more quickly, which is or simply need to patch up any make your home’s interior very homeowners can tackle in the fall can prevent damage to especially beneficial if you are the fall. Many exterior paints hot or cold like they might if paying laborers to work on the your home’s interior, which can leaks, a proactive approach are temperature-sensitive and to leaky or older windows you were to tackle the project roof. The fewer hours workers mount up if a leaky roof is not need the temperature outside in the fall can save you from during the summer or winter. addressed until the following are fixing your roof, the less to be above 40o F. Paint that unnecessarily high heating bills spring. you will be paying in labor freezes won’t dry properly, come the winter.

Addressing Fixing the floors costs. and homeowners might be leaky windows also makes a Window work Wood flooring is a In addition, fixing up the left with a costly and unsightly home more comfortable for its When the weather outside hot commodity for many roof in the fall ensures those mistake on their hands. Fall inhabitants. gets frightful, poorly insulated homeowners.

But not all winter storms, be it rain or temperatures tend to be Fall is the ideal time to windows can allow cold air flooring can be added to a snow, won’t find their way amenable to both interior and address a home’s windows into the home.

That often home at any time of year. into your home via leaks. A exterior painting projects, just because the temperature has a trickle-down effect on That’s because certain types leaky roof in winter is hard to be sure to check the weather outside tends to be pleasant. finances, forcing you to turn up of flooring employ adhesives fix, as the roof surface could This means you likely won’t the thermostat in an attempt that need temperatures inside forecast before making your be treacherous in the winter have to make much of an effort to offset the cold air pouring the home to be within a first brush stroke. and winter winds can make

Create a lighting scheme that works

ighting is an important consideration in any room, but most especially in the kitchen, where people tend to gravitate and spend a good portion of their time.

The right lighting can have a dramatic effect on the functionality of the kitchen, including how the space feels when you enter it. The right blend of lights can create a vibrant mood in the kitchen, while light can be adjusted according to what needs to get done in the space.

Establishing a lighting plan in a kitchen requires a combination of different lights. The main focus should be on three distinct lighting types: task lighting, ambient lighting and accent lighting.

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Setting ambient lighting on a dimmer enables homeowners to cast a mood that is desired when the kitchen isn’t being used for prep work.

Accent Lighting

If there are key elements around the kitchen that a person would like to highlight, such as a china set, accent lighting can do the trick. Spotlights can be Under-cabinet task light- used to show off collecting sheds light on areas ibles, while a subtle strip where cooks do their prep of lighting can illuminate work. a wall of artwork. Many people like to install accent light may stream in from lighting inside of cabinetry windows and skylights. to create dramatic focal However, at night, ambipoints. ent lighting is created by Some homeowners different light fixtures in may want to incorporate a room. In the kitchen, decorative lighting in their overhead fixtures are a kitchens. This is the use of popular choice for ambient ornate chandeliers, hanglighting. A blend of hanging ing pendants and other pendant lamps, chandeliers eye-catching fixtures.

Task Lighting and recessed lighting can Decorative lighting should Task light is beneficial create the amount of light be considered in proporanywhere a person will needed. Homeowners tion to the size of the need to perform tasks that should pay special attention kitchen. Therefore, smaller require close concentration, to the bulbs and fixtures kitchens will have smaller such as chopping vegetathey choose, as not all fixtures and vice versa. bles. Task lighting shines produce the same amount Decorative lighting may be direct light onto a surface, of light. Those concerned the most expensive type of illuminating it thoroughly, about energy efficiency also kitchen lighting, so some and it can be turned off must give mind to whether homeowners prefer to plan when it is not needed. the bulbs will use a lot of ahead for the inclusion of Task lighting is generenergy or last a long time. decorative accents by havally placed above counters Compact fluorescent bulbs ing the wiring ready and and islands where one will as well as LED lighting are then adding the fixtures be slicing vegetables and long-lasting and do not use over time. preparing food. There may as much energy as incanLighting in a kitchen be lighting over the sink to descent bulbs. can be just as important as illuminate dirty dishes. If Indirect ambient lighting which appliances and other a kitchen has a desk area, softens shadows in a room, accessories homeowners lighting above the desk creating a warm, inviting choose for their kitchens. will make that area more glow. It is an important Without the right mix of functional. Many task light- layer of light that is often lighting, the kitchen may ing designs include lights overlooked in the kitchen. not be functional or inviting. under cabinetry to shine down onto counters and eliminate shadowed recesses. Under-cabinet lighting is a relatively inexpensive addon for existing kitchens.

Homeowners can add lighting afterward to focus more light onto countertops.

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Budget-friendly outdoor renovation

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omeowners are increasingly extending their living spaces outside the walls of their homes. Expansive and intricate stonework patios and decked-out outdoor kitchens are the kind of additions many homeowners dream of. Those with unlimited budgets can enjoy just about any look they desire, but many homeowners may not have the money to go all the way with their outdoor living spaces.

But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to create budget-friendly spaces that are functional, fun and eye catching.

Decks and patios are popular gathering spots outside a home, and homeowners have numerous inexpensive options at their disposal when choosing patio materials. And those who can do their own labor when installing a patio can save a substantial amount of money. Instead of higher-priced composite or resin decks, homeowners

can go with standard wood, which will need to be stained periodically.

Scaling back the size of the deck means less materials to buy and less labor involved.

The cost of patio blocks depends on the material and style. Poured concrete patios will cost less than placed blocks or stones because concrete is less labor-intensive. For those who desire the look of patio blocks without the cost, stamped concrete can mimic the look for less.

Homeowners may not need to replace patio furniture, even if chairs and tables have seen better days. A can of spray paint can cover up any rusted areas or spots where paint has peeled off due to exposure to the elements.

Updating cushions and purchasing a coordinating umbrella can revitalize the patio’s entire look. Also, very often stores run sales to clear out merchandise for new displays.

Defining edges of planting borders and refreshing the landscape may be all that is needed

to improve the yard. This is easily achieved with inexpensive mulch and some vinyl edging. While cleaning up the yard, use a pressure washer to clean stains off of siding and patios and create a like-new appearance.

End-of-season sales can also be the ideal opportunity to purchase big-ticket items like a pool, a hot tub or an outdoor fireplace/fire pit. Shoppers can learn when stores discount their merchandise to make room for new inventory and then use these sales as opportunities to save.

Sometimes saving means repurposing antiques or items found at garage sales. Thanks to the Internet, people can easily advertise items they no longer need or desire.

A person can search for backyard items they need at a deep discount if they are fine with previously used materials. From patio furniture to masonry blocks to above-ground pools, patient homeowners can find just about any item they may need to upgrade their backyards.

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The Daily Dispatch

Fall Home & Garden

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

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How to prevent tip-over accidents

odern conveniences in a home are meant to be enjoyed. However, items such as televisions, appliances and furniture can prove quite dangerous when they are involved in tip-over accidents.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission says between the years of 2008 and 2010, 43,400 Americans were treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries related to the instability of televisions, furniture and appliances. Between the years of 2000 and 2010, 293 fatalities were reported, the highest percentage of which were among children ages one to eight. Fifty-two percent of injuries involved only furniture falling. Data from the Brooke’s Angel Wings, an organization that hopes to raise awareness about the dangers of unsecured furniture and televisions, says every two weeks a child loses his or her life to an accident involving unsecured furniture or televisions in the home.

Fortunately, tip-over deaths and injuries are preventable. Individuals making improvements around their homes may want to give special attention to renovations that can improve safety in and around the house. One of the first steps to take is securing furniture and televisions to

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safer when mounted on a wall than they are when placed atop a piece of furniture. If televisions are on a TV stand, they should be secured to the surface.

Homeowners hoping to prevent tip-over accidents can follow these tips. * When loading dresser drawers, put the heaviest items at the bottom and the lightest items in the top drawers. * Do not put things on top of dressers that may entice children to climb up the dresser. * Keep items you do not want children to have out of sight. * Do not assume children will remember the dangers associated with climbing or always follow the rules. * Don’t forget to also secure computer monitors. * Check safety straps frequently to be sure they are All furniture with shelves, drawers and doors, such as the dresser in this bedroom, should be anchored still secure. into a stud with an appropriate device in order to prevent tip-overs. * Think about other items around the house that can prevent tip-over accidents. device. Even if an item seems secure items. However, dopresent a danger were they One of the single easiest stable or heavy, some simple it-yourselfers can use “L” to fall. Secure everything and methods to preventing tip-over precautionary measures can brackets as well as other bolts anything that is large and could injuries is to anchor furniture, help prevent an injury and and hardware that are sturdy televisions and appliances to possibly save a life. enough to hold the weight of a cause injury if it fell down onto a person. the wall. All furniture with Many different safety fully loaded piece of furniture.

Homeowners should not put shelves, drawers and doors devices that can prevent Remember, walls can always be -- anything that can be climbed tip-over accidents are now repaired should damage occur off securing items around the or pulled over by curious available. Products from Safety from bolts and straps. But lives house. Spending five minutes now can prevent a tragedy later children -- should be anchored First to Kidco to Hangman cannot be replaced. on. into a stud with an appropriate all offer furniture straps to Flat screen televisions are

Preparing a home for entertaining osting a party at home is a cost-effective way to entertain. But inviting friends over can be a lot of work, as the host and/ or hostess is responsible for all aspects of party preparation and cleanup.

While party hosts often must wait until the day of the party to tackle many of their responsibilities, they can get a head start on preparing their homes for their guests.

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The clean-up

It may seem counterproductive to clean prior to having everyone over, but it is a necessity if you want to present your home in its best light.

The goal is to give the home the appearance of tidiness. Every surface need not pass the white-glove test, but attention should be paid to any rooms in the house where guests will be spending time.

Begin with the rooms that will be occupied the most. Ensure that they are free of clutter. If you do not have time to put every piece of decor back in its rightful place, simply put misplaced things in boxes or baskets and store them out of sight until you can sort accordingly.

Quickly vacuum the main entertaining area and wipe down any dusty surfaces.

While cleaning, pay special attention to the bathrooms, which will be

Safety and comfort

Investigate your home for any potential safety hazards before inviting guests. Repair any chipped concrete on walkways and ensure that railings are sturdy so no one trips or falls.

Make sure that there is adequate indoor and outdoor light if you will be hosting your event in the evening. If you will be inviting a person with mobility issues, make sure that the path between the entryway and the bathroom is free of obstructions.

If you have a pet, keep in mind that some guests may be allergic to pets or uncomfortable around animals. In such instances, it is better to tuck away your pet in When entertaining at home, it’s a good idea to expect at a quiet, out-of-the-way least 75 to 80 percent of your guests to be seated at any room for both the comfort of guests and the given time and prepare accordingly. safety of the animal. subject to significant foot least 75 to 80 percent Keep all exits and traffic. Spend ample time of guests to be seated windows easily accessible at any given time while cleaning the bathroom in the event of an the remaining guests because you want to emergency. Make sure mingle. Your regular present a clean, sanitary that fire extinguishers furniture may be able to space. are charged in the event In the same vein, make accommodate a number a candle or chafing dish sure the master bedroom of guests. If not, bring in sterno gets knocked over. seating. It could mean is neat. Put on your best Have a few seats comforter and ensure the temporarily moving out available outdoors for bulky sofas in lieu of bed is made. Unless you smokers or those who folding chairs. lock the bedroom door, want a break from the If you will be serving expect at least one guest action. a sit-down meal, then you to mistakenly wander Preparing a home will definitely need a seat for party guests takes into the bedroom. and place at the table for some patience and elbow each one of your guests.

Seating grease. But party hosts Buffet-style meals and You will want to have can get a head start on finger foods are often the preparing their home to enough seats for the best option when table majority of guests to be make the day of the party space is limited. comfortable. Expect at less hectic.

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Safely clear gutters nlike many household chores, cleaning gutters can be quite dangerous, so homeowners should take the following precautions before gutting their gutters of grime.

• Don’t tr y to be a hero. If you are afraid of heights, then it’s perfectly alright to hire a professional to clean your gutters.

• Inspect the stability of your ladder. An unbalanced ladder may not be reliable and should be replaced. You will need a secure ladder that does not teeter back and forth each time you reach for the gutter.

• Keep the ladder on stable ground.

The ladder should

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always be planted on a flat and secure surface before you climb up to clean the gutter.

• Move the ladder frequently.

Overextending yourself is a considerable safety risk, so move the ladder frequently, even if the job is taking more time than you had expected.

• Wear tight clothing. If you aren’t paying attention, clothing that gets snagged can throw off your balance when you start to move, increasing your risk of falling.

• Wear protective gloves. Wear a thick pair of gloves that won’t puncture when caught on a gutter, or sharp twig or branch.

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Fall Home & Garden

The Daily Dispatch

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Give a room a new look without breaking the bank

Redecorating a room or an entire house can change the entire feel of the space dramatically. But an unpredictable economy has made many consumers a little more particular when it comes to spending on home decor.

Changing elements in a room does not have to be expensive. A few updated pieces or accessories can give a room an entirely new look without breaking the bank.

Paint or Stain

measure the piece of furniture you intend to cover.

Without the correct fit, even a well-crafted slipcover can look awkward and cheap. Pay attention to the material of the slipcover, so you know it will be durable and thick enough to cover an existing sofa fabric pattern.

Painting a room’s walls a different color can provide immediate results. But furniture also can be painted and stained. Many times older furniture is made from quality wood, not the type of composite or pressboard wood of some less expensive furniture options. That means that finishes can be stripped and replaced with new stains. Turn a dated dresser into something that looks brand new with a new stain color or a coat of paint. Think about painting or staining using foam sponges to reduce the appearance of brush lines.

Knobs and Pulls

Breathe new life into older furniture by changing the knobs, draw pulls and handles.

Slipcovers Many times furniture comes Slipcovers are no longer with standard brass knobs the amorphous sacks they that can look dated over once were. Slipcovers now time. Using sleeker, more come in all different price streamlined knobs can make points. Spending a little more traditional furniture look can mean getting a style that more modern. Changing pulls is elasticized or form-fitting, from metal to wood can make which will conform to the a room look more earthy or contours of a sofa or love seat. country. Home improvement This is a simple way to cover up stores and accessory retailers an outdated style of sofa fabric stock a wide variety of or a chair that has seen better days. Slipcovers also are a good handles and knobs that can transform just about any piece way to protect new couches of furniture. And what cannot from damage when there are be found in a store can most children or pets in the home. likely be purchased online.

To get the right slipcover,

Accessorize

Swapping out curtains, throw pillows and even wall art can easily and often inexpensively transform the look of a room. Homeowners can purchase accessories with bright colors that add a pop of brightness throughout Changing a lamp shade can the room and can provide a breathe new life into an older pick-me-up for neutral design lamp. tones.

Older lamps can be given a new look just by replacing lamp shades. There are many affordable options at discount stores and major retailers.

Area rugs can also transform a room with little effort. Bring in a new color scheme with a different patterned rug and carry the pattern to stairways with runners.

Bare Minimum Sometimes less is more, and this can also pertain to home decorating. Revamping a room can be done by subtraction as well as addition. Homeowners can explore the option of taking out a piece of furniture that may be cumbersome and blocking foot traffic. Removing knickknacks from shelves and thinning out the use of collectibles can make a room more airy and inviting. Before money is spent on changing furniture or accessories, people can look into what they can remove from the room to freshen it up.

Giving a room a new look and feel can be done without breaking the bank.

How to rake leaves more efficiently

aking leaves is a fact of life for many homeowners. Cool autumn weather and less sunlight are signals to certain trees that it is time to shed their leaves.

A leafless tree is more capable of conserving energy and riding out the winter successfully.

Trees also shed their leaves during periods of drought or if they have produced too many leaves in the summer and need to conserve water.

For homeowners, fallen leaves can be an unsightly nuisance that can stain concrete and smother lawns, especially when fallen leaves are not promptly removed. Raking is a timely task many homeowners dread. But it is possible to cut down on the time it takes to clear a yard of all those unsightly leaves.

• Wait for the majority of leaves to drop before beginning your work. If you start too early in the season, you may end up raking multiple times and that is not time-efficient.

• Use the technology at your disposal. If the grass is still growing, you can use a mulching mower to take care of some of the leaves.

The mower will shred the leaves and create nutrients for the soil and the lawn. However, once the lawn stops growing you do not want to cut it too short. This is when it is time to take out the rake.

A composting vacuum and leaf blower are other ways to make quick

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Many clogged drains can be taken care of with household items that won’t break the bank.

Tips for unclogging drains Investing in a light weight rake and a good pair of gloves helps to make raking go smoothly and quickly. work of cleaning up leaves. Although these devices may not be as eco-friendly as a rake, they can significantly reduce the time it takes to clear a yard of fallen leaves.

• Remember to rake downwind. It is a good idea to save raking for a day when it is not too breezy; otherwise, you may end up raking the same spots over and over. Handle small spots at one time and rake the leaves into small piles.

Then you can easily transfer the leaves to a tarp or bag and set aside for disposal or deposit them into your compost heap.

• Invest in a lightweight leaf rake and a good pair of gloves.

Being comfortable while doing the work will make it go more smoothly and quickly, and a lightweight rake won’t be too taxing, while gloves will prevent the formation of blisters.

In addition, take breaks to rest and recharge.

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• Move your feet as you rake so your arms and back are not doing all of the work. Think of it as dragging the leaves more so than just shuffling them around.

The more leaves you can gather in one pass of the rake, the more quickly the job will go.

• Spread the work around. Sharing the task with others certainly cuts down on the time it takes to clear the yard.

Have a leaf-raking party in which members of the household each pitch in before everyone enjoys a well-deserved backyard barbecue.

Although raking leaves may not be the average homeowner’s favorite activity, it is a healthy one. Various muscles are worked when raking, which also is a good form of cardiovascular exercise.

In fact, a person who weighs 180 pounds can expect to burn more than 350 calories raking leaves for an hour.

logged drains can be a nuisance. And if left untreated, that minor nuisance can turn into an expensive repair.

Before you have to call a plumber, there are steps to take that may get water flowing once more.

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Bubbles Galore

Baking soda has many uses in the home.

This versatile product can be used dislodge items in drains. It is better to try baking soda when clogs are minor and water drainage is sluggish rather than waiting for the clog to get so bad that water is impenetrable.

When baking soda and common household vinegar are mixed together, they form a new chemical called carbonic acid. This acid immediately begins to degrade into carbon dioxide gas, which produces foam and bubbles in the process.

This bubbling action can upset the source of a clog in a pipe and

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dislodge particles that may be causing the water backup. Baking soda also can be mixed with salt and boiling water to break down grease that may be clogging drains.

Plunge ahead

If a clog is especially stubborn, you may need to use a plunger.

A plunger works by forcing the energy you push on the plunger into the surrounding water, which then applies pressure against the clog. Repeatedly forcing water against a clog can move it along until it frees up the drain.

Pop and fizz

Colas are loaded with phosphoric acid, which is more acidic than lemon juice and is also corrosive. This acid will fizz in the drain and break through any greasy, stubborn residue. It’s even effective at dissolving calcium deposits, which may be a byproduct of hard water.

Snake it

Some clogs are more stubborn and require some extra elbow grease to fix. A pipe snake can push hair and other debris through the pipes until water can run free. They also can be used to pull the obstacle back up out of the drain. A snake is essentially a flexible piece of wire that is inserted in the pipe. It may have a coarse or wound end to ensnare a clog.

Call a plumber

Unless you feel confident taking pipes apart to check for and clear out clogs and then reassembling everything, you may need to call a plumber if the clog will not relent. It may be lower in the system than at house level, especially if there are clogs in multiple sinks or appliances in the home.

Multiple clogged drains may be indicative of a more serious problem.

Many clogs can be alleviated with simple household items. Serious clogs may require the expertise of a plumber.

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Fall Home & Garden

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Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Shade trees naturally keep homes cool

People take many different steps to stay cool when the temperatures rise. A particularly common method to remaining comfortable is turning up the air conditioning and staying indoors. But what about the people who want to be cool and enjoy fresh air as well? Shade trees could be their best allies against the sweltering temperatures.

Most individuals will agree that it feels much cooler under a shade tree than it does when standing in direct sunlight. The nonprofit organization Trees Forever says the difference in temperature readings can be monumental. In 2010, roughly 20 volunteers worked with the organization to compare the actual temperature of shaded and unshaded surfaces around a county fairground in Iowa. The volunteers used laser thermometers and took readings from surfaces such as sidewalks, parking lots and grassy lawn areas. The volunteers found differences in temperature ranging from 14 to 55o F depending on the surface measured. That’s a considerable difference and could help a person remain cool.

Trees are a practical way to stay cool and are an energy-saving means to keep temperatures down. Planting trees around a property can reduce reliance on airconditioning systems, saving a

person money while reducing dependency on fuel sources.

Other live vegetation, including grass and yard plants, can also promote an overall cooling effect, compared to hardscape surfaces that radiate heat.

Numerous varieties of trees can serve as shade trees. These are typically deciduous trees that will have leaves during the warm-weather months and then shed them when the cooler seasons arise. However, some evergreens and tropical trees also work well as shade producers in and around a landscape.

• American Arborvitae: This slow-growing evergreen is typically used to create tall hedges and privacy screens.

It also offers year-round moderate to deep shade when the trees reach maximum height of 25 to 40 feet.

• American Beech: This tree offers shade and also edible nuts. It can grow up to 100 feet in fertile, well-draining soils.

• Autumn Blaze Maples: These trees are known for their outstanding fall foliage.

However, they also are fast-growing shade trees that can cool down any landscape.

• Bald Cyprus: The fern-like leaves of this tree provide moderate shade. This cyprus is low-maintenance and has few problems with insects or disease.

• Chinese Elm: This rapid-growing tree is excellent

yellow flowers in early summer.

The dense foliage will remain on the tree into late fall.

• Moraine Locust: This tree is cold-hardy and can withstand urban conditions. It is fast-growing and provides light to medium shade.

• Silver Måƒaple: This is the most rapid growing of all maples and will be a large spreading tree.

• Tulip Trees: These very large trees are coveted for their flowers that resemble the shape of tulips. This tree should be given plenty of space in which to grow.

• Virginia Pine: Because its branches aren’t as close to the ground as other pine trees, the Virginia pine can be an effective shade tree.

• White Birch: This tree, also known as the European birch, grows 30 to 60 feet tall and has drooping branches. The smaller leaves offer dappled shade. The peeling white bark can stand out in a landscape.

• White Oak: Oak trees make excellent shade trees, but the White Oak can grow to 100 feet tall with a spread of 80 feet in its canopy. It has Shade trees can drop temperatures on a property by several thick horizontal branches degrees, reducing dependency on air conditioning. that contribute to its shade-producing benefits. for screening or providing a trees in southern climates. In Trees in one’s yard can not windbreak. Small, dense foliage northern climates, they may only keep temperatures cool, will fill in about five years, when grow more like a perennial but also provide habitats for it will be good for shade. shrub. birds and small animals and act • Crepe Myrtle Tree: • Little-leaf Linden: This is a as a food source for plenty of Myrtles are fast-growing shade fragrant tree that blooms with creatures.

Painting prep of Shed shopping savvy primary importance S ainting a home’s interior can give it a completely new look and feel.

A fresh coat of paint can make a room feel more vibrant and up-to-date, creating a whole new attitude within the room without breaking the bank.

Whether creating an accent wall or painting each wall within a room, painting is a relatively easy and inexpensive home improvement project.

But that doesn’t mean painting does not require a little prep work before the project can begin.

• Address any holes or bumps on the wall. Holes or cracks in the wall will need to be patched with spackle, which then must dry before the wall can be given a new coat of paint. In addition, sand down any bumps until the walls are smooth and free of any unsightly abnormalities.

• Wash the walls. Walls can get dirty, and that dirt may or may not be masked by paint. Before adding a new coat of paint, wash the walls and inspect them for dust. Dust can collect on molding, especially in rooms that get little natural air. When dust has collected on the molding and around doorways and trim, use a damp cloth to wipe it away before adding any new paint.

• Apply primer. Primer can serve many functions, not the least of which is its role as a bonding agent between the wall and the top coat of paint. Primer can also help conceal dark colors, prevent stains and increase the life expectancy of the paint job you are about to undertake.

• Prepare your paint. Preparing the paint is a simple task, but one novice painters may not be aware of. When opening a new can of paint, stir the paint before using it. In addition, even if you don’t plan to use a roller when painting, do not paint straight from the can, which can be heavier to hold than a small bowl, and a light bowl is less likely to be spilled than a potentially heavy can of paint. In addition, once paint has been removed from the can, replace the lid so dust and other impurities do not settle in the can.

• Purchase painter’s tape. Painter’s

P

Though painting is an inexpensive and relatively easy home improvement project, proper preparation is needed in order to do the job right. tape can be especially valuable to novice painters. Painter’s tape makes it easier to paint smooth and clean paint lines, giving a room a more professional looking coat of paint without the cost of hiring a professional painter.

Painting can be an inexpensive and fun way to upgrade a home’s interior.

But even though painting does not require the technical know-how of more large-scale home improvement projects, it still requires some prep work and attention to detail to ensure the job is done right.

torage sheds can be invaluable for people who do not have a garage or basement in which to store their outdoor tools and equipment. Sheds also can be a boon to anyone looking to increase the storage space they have at home.

Prefabricated and made-to-order sheds are available for all different budgets and storage needs. Buyers also can choose among build-to-suit kits that can be ordered online or from various retailers.

One of the first decisions homeowners need to make when shopping for a storage shed is how much space they need. Think about what you need to house in the shed. Will it hold shovels and the patio umbrella, or will it need to be larger to accommodate a lawn mower? Knowing what you intend to use the shed for will enable you to pick the appropriate size.

Another thing to consider is how long you plan to use the shed. If this is merely a transitional storage building to bide your time until your garage renovation is complete, you may not need an expensive structure made of top-of-the-line materials.

If you have a long lifetime planned for this shed, you will want a durable structure and might want to increase your budget.

Before buying a shed, find out if your town, city or province has any zoning rules about sheds. You may need to plan a trip to the municipal building and learn the building codes about erecting a shed. In

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order to protect the safety and integrity of the area, many towns and cities have specific zoning and building laws that need to be followed. A shed of a certain size may require a permit to be built, and knowing this information in advance can save you from taking down the shed and redoing the work at a later date.

Once you know the building codes, you can begin to shop around for a shed. Sheds can vary widely in price. A small, vertical lean-to shed may start out around $350, while a larger, more intricate structure can cost between $2,000 and $3,000.

Cost may play a role in the shed you ultimately choose, especially if you are on a fixed budget.

Available materials also should be studied when buying a shed. While an aluminum shed may not be the most aesthetically appealing option, aluminum sheds tend to be affordable and durable.

Wood sheds are available in all different styles and can be very attractive.

However, they will have to be maintained to prevent rot and insect infestation.

Wood sheds also can be expensive. Vinyl sheds may be the best of both worlds, as they are often durable and require little maintenance. Some sheds even enable you to build or add on different components at a later date, so you don’t need to start out with the elite model at

the outset.

When shopping, consider if you have the skillset to assemble the shed yourself. You can save a considerable amount of money when buying a kit and assembling the shed yourself. Having a shed built off-site and then delivered, or hiring a carpenter to come and build a shed, may cost you just as much in labor as in materials.

Keep in mind that sheds displayed in a warehouse store or outside at a home improvement retailer may seem smaller than they will when erected in your yard. Measure your space carefully to ensure that the shed will blend in and not be an eyesore in the yard. Shrubbery can be planted around the shed to help camouflage it, and the shed also can be color-coordinated with the house to make it appear more cohesive.

The foundation of the shed also needs to be considered. Sheds can rest on cinder blocks, poured concrete or crushed stone.

Check with the shed manufacturer as to the best foundation material, and factor that expense into your purchase.

An attractive, functional and affordable shed can be an asset to a home. It provides extra storage space for outdoor equipment, which can free up room in a garage or basement.

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6

Fall Home & Garden

The Daily Dispatch

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

How to make a home handicap accessible any homeowners have found themselves scrambling to make their homes handicap accessible after a sudden injury or illness.

In addition, some homeowners have found themselves looking to make adjustments to their homes in anticipation of welcoming elderly, less mobile relatives into their homes.

Converting a home into a handicap-accessible space can seem like a daunting task that requires adjustments to nearly every part of the house. While the extent of those adjustments depends on the individual who needs to be accommodated, some of the areas homeowners must address when making their homes handicap accessible are universal regardless of the individual’s condition.

M

Entryways

A home’s entryways often must be addressed when making the home more handicap accessible. Portable ramps can be an affordable option and are often an ideal for those who only need to make temporary adjustments, such as when a resident suffers an injury that requires he or she spend some 5 in a wheelchair.

When the adjustments will just be temporary, a folding wheelchair might be necessary, as the doorways might not be able to fit a standard wheelchair that doesn’t fold.

When adjustments figure to be permanent, homeowners might need to expand the doorways in their homes.

Contractors typically recommend expanding doorways to at least 32 inches, which provides some maneuverability when wheelchairs, which are typically between 24 and 27 inches wide, are entering the home. Doorways at the most commonly used entryways, including front doors and doors to

Having to make a home handicap accessible can seem like quite an undertaking for a homeowner. Entryways, bathrooms, water fixtures and closets almost always require adjustments. Luckily, some of these tasks aren’t too difficult to address. the bathrooms as well as the individual’s bedroom, will likely need to be widened.

Bathroom

The bathroom might be the area of the home that needs the most attention. Slippery conditions common to bathrooms can make things especially difficult for people in wheelchairs or with disabilities. Grab bars should be installed in bath tubs and shower stalls and next to toilets.

But grab bars aren’t the only adjustment homeowners should make in the bathroom as they attempt to make a home more handicap accessible. Safety treads, which can provide a secure, slip-free surface on the floors of showers and tubs, can be installed.

Add a hand-held shower head to the shower stall to make it easier for those with a disability to shower. Portable transfer seats, which enable wheelchair-bound men and women to transition from their chairs to showers and bathtubs, can be purchased and kept in or near the bathroom.

sinks throughout the home. Disabled persons may find it difficult to access faucets on sinks throughout the home, especially when there are vanity cabinets beneath the sinks.

Replacing such sinks with pedestal sinks can improve maneuverability, but make sure such sinks are lower to the ground than standard pedestal sinks. A sink that’s just a few inches lower than a standard sink is considerably more accessible to people in wheelchairs.

Closets

Closets are rarely handicap accessible.

Homeowners can address this issue by creating multi-level closet spaces so individuals can place their clothes at accessible heights.

Closet shelves can be lowered and doors can be widened so disabled persons can easily manage their wardrobes.

In addition, consider installing a light inside the closet and make sure the light switch can be easily reached from a wheelchair.

Making a home more handicap accessible can be a significant Water fixtures undertaking, but many An often overlooked adjustment homeowners of the adjustments homeowners must must make when transforming their homes make are small in scale and won’t take long to into handicap-accessible complete. spaces concerns the

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When using power tools for yard work, be sure to wear protective eyeware recognized by a certified organization.

Powering up arm weekends are prime time for yard work and outdoor projects. To avoid turning tasks into turmoil, be sure to take a few extra moments to ensure the power tools you use are safe.

CSA Group, a leader in electronic product testing and certification, offers tips to help ensure the safety of you and your family while doing yard work this weekend.

W

General Tips for Yard Maintenance

• Ensure products such as electric lawnmowers, barbecues, power tools, ladders, decorative lights, extension cords and safety apparel carr y the mark of a recognized or accredited certification organization, such as CSA Group.

• Protect yourself by wearing protective eyewear and footwear recognized by a certification organization, such as CSA Group.

Hearing protection should be worn when operating loud machiner y, vehicles or tools.

Lawnmowers

• Before mowing, take the time to remove objects in your yard that may obstruct your mower or be flung by its rotating blades.

• Never clear an obstruction in a running mower. If the mower is electric, turn off the power and unplug the machine. If it’s gas, turn off the power and make sure the engine isn’t running and that all safety features have been activated.

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Portable Power Tools

• Never use a power tool that has a cracked casing, loose parts or frayed cords. Ensure all safety guards are in place and in proper working order.

• Make sure the tool is turned off before it’s plugged in or unplugged.

Always unplug the tool before changing parts like drill bits or cutting blades.

• Use only electric power tools that have either a three-prong plug or double insulation with a heavy enough gauge -- or wire size -- to handle the electricity load. Use an outlet with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter to protect against electric shock.

Extension Cords

• Check extension cords for wear and damage before each use.

Discard any cords that are frayed or have damaged insulation.

• Never connect more than one extension cord together. Instead, use a single cord that is long enough to reach from the outlet to an appliance or tool.

• When working outside, only use cords clearly labeled for outdoor use.

• Never run an electrical cord through a door way or under a carpet. If a cord becomes hot when plugged in, discontinue use immediately and replace with a heavier gauge cord.

More safety tips available at csasafetytips.com.

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