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June 2009
HOME Sweet HOME Magazine
Decorating your guest bedroom
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Do it yourself-Planning your outdoor kitchen page 18 Get rid of those WEEDS! Page 28 12 common swimming pool mistakes Page 34
HOME IMPROVEMENT SECTION: Top 10 ways to boost your homes value page 38 Patio styles page 14 Popular painting trends page 6
WIN $500 cash details on page-13
Know your home trivia Question -19 Kitchen and bath Know your kitchen trends page 22
Long Island’s fun spot of the month! Page 16
Local Dining Hotspot page 10
World travel section page 36 Recipe of the month by chef John Smith page 8
LOCAL DEALS AND STEALS page 31 To advertise call 1-888-846-4266
INTERIOR DESIGN AND DÉCOR: Decorating your guest bedroom page 24
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POPULAR PAINTING TRENDS Comfort Colors If you've got a room that's due for an update, bring out the Stress-free shades that wrap a room in warmth continue brushes and look to this year's popular paint colors for to be popular, especially when it comes to kitchens and inspiration. A fresh coat of color can easily and affordably family rooms. To create a welcoming refuge from the transform a space, and thanks to a new wave of design rough-and-tumble world, choose colors that sound as awareness among DIY decorators, there’s no shortage of delicious as they look, including pumpkin orange, bold, statement-creating colors from which to choose. cinnamon apple pie, cocoa brown, and biscuit and wheat "Over the course of the past decade, consumers have neutrals. shown a desire to bring new hues into their living space," Stark Contrast says Debbie Zimmer, paint color and decorating expert for This palette pairs sophisticated black and white with such the Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute and member of dramatic tones as deep plums and clean, clear reds, the the prestigious Color Marketing Group, an international latter of which will be popping up more and more as a organization that helps shape the latest color trends. certain global sporting event draws near. "We'll see the "They’re so much more color confident today, especially use of red grow tremendously as we head toward the since they’ve had the opportunity to visualize color through 2008 Beijing Olympics," says Zimmer, noting the increase examples on home improvement shows, magazines, and in consumer confidence with this dynamic color. radio shows.” Whether red or another bold shade is in the mix, If you’ve collected a few of those design ideas yourself, take polished brass metallics are great complements to Stark the next step with this tour of the leading color palettes Contrast schemes, and mix to great effect in dining, living identified by Zimmer and her fellow trendwatchers. and powder rooms. Back to Nature In addition to color considerations, Zimmer recommends Consumer interests in green building and earth-friendly using texture to add interest and style to a room. One living have found a literal outlet in natural tones reflecting approach is incorporating different paint sheen levels to the world outdoors. Yellows and blues, leaf-like greens, and lend translucency and a glass-like quality to surfaces, organic browns all star on consumers’ wish lists, something including unexpected and dramatic applications on to which the folks at BEHR Paints can attest. Such natural ceilings. green shades as "Rejuvenate," "Sagey" and "Restful" are And don't discount the power of metallics as highlights, among the top ten tones viewed on BEHR.com, and the undercoats and surface textures in any color scheme. fresh "Asparagus" and warm "Medieval Gold" are also "Over the last 12 to 24 months it’s been more about among their hottest hues. Bedrooms, bathrooms and subdued metallic finishes, but we’re going to be seeing a rooms including an accent wall are ideal destinations for return to more bold, brassy metallics as we get closer to these shades, and Zimmer suggests accenting such natural fall and the holiday season. From silver to brass, metallics To advertise call 1-888-846-4266 color schemes with rust or copper-like metallics. are again going to be on the rise."
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Recipe of the month By CHEF - JOHN SMITH FROM ABC RESTAURANT Chicken Venetian : Serving Size : 3 Preparation Time :0:00 Categories : Chicken/Turkey Low Fat Main Dishes Eat-Lf Mailing List Amount Measure Ingredient -Preparation Method -------- ------------ -------------------------------3 Skinless Boneless Chicken Breast Halves -- Or Thighs 1/4 Cup Soy Sauce, Low Sodium 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar 1/4 Tsp vegetable oil 1 Lg Clove Garlic 1/4 Tsp. oregano Mix soy sauce, vinegar, oil, crushed garlic, and oregano. Pour mixture over chicken arranged in shallow baking dish and cover. Bake for 375째 for 45 minutes, then turn chicken and bake an additional 15 minutes. This comes out extremely tender and has a wonderful flavor.
Try it before you cook it! ABC Restaurant 322 dinner lane Bayport ny 11705
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Local dining HOT SPOT First let me say that, "I do not believe there is a more romantic restaurant in all New York" It is in the decor and atmosphere where the Tavern on the Green goes over the top. The restaurant has six rooms. Each is very special. Walking through the restaurant from one room to another is like taking a fantasy walk. The mazes of curved halls all in mirrored glass takes you to each of the rooms and the gift shop. Yes, the Tavern has its own gift shop too. In the rooms you will find etched mirrors and paneled mirrors. Original paintings are throughout the restaurants halls and rooms. Prints abound. Stained Glass pieces with back lighting are throughout the restaurant. Some are unbelievably striking and yet more than any other eye catching pieces in the place are the chandeliers. They are abundant and amazing!! Some are Waterford Crystal and all are distinct. Even with all of this, I couldn't say the restaurant is garish or gaudy. It is aesthetically pleasing and very tastefully done, I think it's perfect!
One of my biggest pet peeves about dining out is the lack of service. Having to wait for your server to attend to your needs is infuriating - especially considering how much dining out now costs. Well, the sheer delight of not having to worry about such an event when dining at the Tavern makes the evening that much more enjoyable. So, now that we've established that the decor and the service are as good as it gets, let's talk about the cuisine. Tavern prides itself on having varying menus that change with the season. For the most part, Tavern offers a nice variety of hi-class American fare, consisting of an extensive seafood offering, game birds, succulent steaks, and a host of side dishes to make your meal complete. Presentation of the meals, another pet peeve of mine, is always well thought out, attractive and practical. They're often such a work of art, especially the desserts, that you'll The Crystal room , I believe, is the finest room of them all. be sure to admire them for a time, before succumbing to It is like an atrium in that three sides of the room, that can your hunger. hold about three hundred people, is surrounded with glass panels over twelve foot high. The windows are over eight Of course, no meal would be complete without a fine wine. foot straight up and then they continue up another six feet Tavern offers an extensive wine cellar for you to choose from; selections by the glass or the bottle are available. or so angled inward toward the ornate craft work on the ceiling and the beautiful chandeliers. During the day the room is flooded with light and the crystal in the chandeliers glow in multitudes of colours. At night you feel as though you are in the midst of a wonderland. The views of the park and garden area are unmatched in all NY. Each of the six rooms have their own elegant, yet comfortable feel to them. Whether in a room with vaulted ceilings, open rafters and an "old time" feel looking out onto the park, or a fanciful room with gingerbread accents and railings that, though it is not open to the outside, makes you feel like you are outside, clouds and all, in a secret garden, the overall decor and feel of the rooms is quite impressive. View aside, another point worthy of noting is the service. It is absolutely impeccable. For the most part, and depending on the time/date you go, you will have a private server attending to your every need. I have to admit, I got a kick out of this as out waiter was always a few steps away, waiting for us to 'signal' him to refill our water, give us new To advertise call 1-888-846-4266 silverware, or what have you.
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Planning your patio
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Patio Styles The design of a patio should take into account the style of the house and the surrounding garden, and the purpose the patio is to serve. One of the first considerations is the size of the patio. A large patio is expensive and may not be necessary if you plan only intimate gatherings with family or a few friends. However, if you like large parties, or live in a neighborhood where most homes have substantial outdoor entertaining areas, a bigger patio may be a worthwhile investment. Another consideration is levelness. A patio should provide a firm, level surface for seating and entertaining. That's one of the big advantages of a patio over a lawn, which can be a difficult base for setting up tables and chairs -- especially after a rain when it may be spongy or uneven.
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Add instant interest to patios by using containers filled with plants to create focal points or to divide a large area into more intimate spaces. Open and airy. As a general rule, a patio is open and exposed; it visually spills into the surrounding areas. To avoid feeling exposed, consider adding a pergola or other overhead structure to give the patio a sense of containment. Walls and fences create a comforting sense of enclosure and definition for a patio. Whatever enclosing method you select, put it to work by hanging wind chimes or a bird feeder. Private and secluded. A patio is a private outdoor room. You can create a sense of privacy by using the existing walls of the house or garage. You need not completely enclose the area as you would a courtyard. Instead, consider building a screen or fence to enclose part of the patio, leaving the other sides open. Partial enclosure creates a sense of intimacy, making the patio especially suited to outdoor dining. Close to home. Having a patio close to the house has many advantages. If it's visible from inside the house, it has a tendency to be used more because you are constantly aware of it. A patio can also serve as a transitional area between the house and the garden.
A change in level of one or two steps creates a sense of separation, even if the patio is close to the house. Change of grade. Add interest to a patio by having it slightly elevated or sunken. This is especially appropriate if your garden is relatively level. If you plan on setting the patio below the surrounding grade, you will need to install some type of drainage system. A raised patio will drain easily if you build the surface with a slight slope. Underutilized area. Sometimes paving a narrow side yard or other small area can turn an otherwise unused spot into a functional patio. This is especially true of areas that receive little sunlight and might otherwise be difficult spots in which to maintain a lawn or other planting.
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Everyone and everything you need to build or remodel is here at LIRemodel. Our awardwinning designers, craftsmen, and project managers have the expertise to plan and complete every facet, from the first design drawing to the celebration of your finished project.
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Long Island FUN Spots Located on Main Street in Riverhead, along the Peconic River, Atlantis Marine World is Long Island’s full-scale Aquarium. Themed around the “Lost City of Atlantis,” Atlantis Marine World blends science and nature with myth to create an informative and entertaining environment for visitors of all ages. They offer a rich variety of experiences, from fascinating marine life exhibits to Aquatic Adventures and educational programs. Atlantis Marine World is also home to the Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation, New York State’s only authorized marine mammal and sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation center.
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Just about the most fun a family can have in one day on Long Island. The aquarium boasts short lines, low prices, and tons of things to do. The exhibits are clean and packed with extraordinary species designed to educate as well as awe children and adults the same. The hands on spectacles are cool, fun and abundant. Our staff highly recommend this place as a must see this summer!
431 East Main Street, Riverhead, NY 11901 Tel: 631-208-9200 Fax: 631-208-0466 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
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Time Event 10:15am African Penguin Talk & Feed 10:45am Sea Lion Show 11:00am Ray Bay Talk & Public Feed* $ 11:00am Shark Dive $ 11:15am Seal Talk & Training Session / Feed 11:30am Sand Shark Lagoon Talk & Public Feed* $ 12:00pm African Penguin Talk 12:00pm Atlantis Explorer Tour Boat $ 12:45pm Sea Lion Show 1:00pm Ray Bay Talk & Public Feed* $ 1:15pm Behind-the Scenes Tour $ 1:30pm Sand Shark Lagoon Talk & Public Feed* $ 2:00pm African Penguin Talk & Feed 2:00pm Atlantis Explorer Tour Boat $ 2:30pm Sea Lion Show 3:00pm Amazon Rainforest Talk & Fish Feed (Friday & Sunday) 3:15pm Seal Talk & Seal Kiss (Kiss on Weekends & Holidays ONLY) $ 3:30pm Coral Reef Talk 3:45pm Shark Talk (Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Sunday) 4:00pm Sea Lion Show 4:20pm Lost City of Atlantis Shark Talk & Feed (Monday, Thursday & Saturday) 4:25pm Piranha Talk & Feed (Sunday & Wednesday)
Tips for Family Visits Atlantis Marine World offers so many ways to create an educational, fun-filled day that will create lasting memories for every member of your family. Here are some tips that can help your family enjoy a magical experience at Atlantis Marine World: Upon your arrival, make sure to check out Atlantis Marine World’s Daily Events Schedule. There’s so much happening throughout the day that you’ll want to plan ahead to make sure you don’t miss an event that you’d like to see. Familiarize yourself with our Aquatic Adventures and consider making an advance, online, or phone reservation for those in which you’re interested. That way, you won’t risk getting shut out on the day of your visit. If you’re interested in feeding the stingrays in our Ray Bay touch tank, consider doing so early in the day. To avoid overfeeding, our Aquarists monitor our rays’ food consumption, and once rays have eaten their daily maximum, no more food is available for feeding. (Additional fee applies) Our Sea Lion Show is one of our most popular attractions, so arrive early, as it is a closed-door Coliseum show. Once the doors have closed, you will not be allowed to enter. Atlantis Marine World does not have storage facilities, so make sure to carry only those belongings that you can carry comfortably. The Lost & Found and First Aid Station are located in the Membership Office at the Main Entrance. Both restroom accommodations are located on the first floor near the Riverhead Foundation and adjacent to the Atlantis Café. If at any time you need immediate assistance, go to the Ticketing Circle or speak to an Atlantis Marine World staff member
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It used to be that outdoor entertaining conjured up the Today's outdoor kitchen designs can include such familiar image of the picnic lunch at the park. You only items as: sinks, cabinets, and cutting boards. They can needed a picnic basket, thermos, paper plates and be fully featured areas, which offering a covered bar plastic utensils. and buffet area. Or if you wanted to be able to host an outdoor In planning your outdoor kitchen you will need to luncheon or dinner you would toss some items on a consider how much you will use your outdoor kitchen barbecue pit out in the backyard and flip burgers and and whether it will be just a small part of your deck or hotdogs. patio or a fully functional outdoor kitchen. Cooking on a grill is a great way to entertain outdoors. Today, however outdoor kitchens have made However it is a nuisance to have to go back and forth entertaining more convenient as well as luxurious. from the kitchen to the patio. That is why outdoor Now you can have all the accoutrements of any indoor kitchens have become more and more popular. kitchen all year around no matter what part of the The outdoor kitchen can include stovetop-style country you live in. Besides the outside grill, outdoor burners, griddles, roasting spits, sinks, refrigerators, kitchens frequently include many features - the storage space for dishes and cooking gear, low number depending on your budget Outdoor kitchens counters for prep work, bar-height counters for guests, range in cost from about $3,000 to more than stereo systems and more. $30,000.The latest products on the market include Preparing and enjoying meals outdoors along with luxury grills equipped with all the capabilities of casual entertaining has in recent years really taken off stovetop cooking. Outdoor kitchen setups include as homeowners have come to see just how appealing kitchen islands, sinks, refrigerators, wet bars and these alfresco preparation areas can be. Having dishwashers. originated in the southwest, outdoor kitchens are now to be found all over the country. So just what kinds of foods can be cooked outdoors? Actually any type of food that can be prepared in an indoor kitchen can be prepared in an outdoor kitchen.
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475-3296 Outdoor Kitchen Design Factors An outdoor kitchen design can include different components and styles and there are many factors in deciding on the right outdoor kitchen design. One of the factors is just how much space you have to work with. Will it just include a small grill island or will your outdoor kitchen be as big as your indoor kitchen? Will it be the place where you and your family will spend a considerable amount of time? It is important that for an outdoor kitchen to work you must be able to provide adequate seating and dining areas. If you want to be able to enjoy your outdoor kitchen when the weather turns cooler it is a good idea to also have an outdoor fireplace to keep everyone warm and toasty. Custom or Prefab Grilling Islands Next, you will need to determine whether you will want your grill to be freestanding or built into an outdoor grilling island. Custom grilling islands can help provide your outdoor kitchen with a more upscale look. Just like an indoor kitchen island, the outdoor grilling island includes masonry with cabinets. Many experts agree that custom masonry grilling islands can add tremendous value to your home. You can also go with a prefab grilling island. These prefab islands come in a variety of configurations and exterior finishes. They cost less than more custom islands. Building Materials For Your Outdoor Kitchen You should select sturdy and durable materials that can stand up to climate changes. Many building experts agree that Polymer is the perfect material for the construction of outdoor kitchens. It can withstand outside elements and unlike wood, concrete or stucco it does not absorb moisture. Polymer is a solid material not a laminate or layered material and it will not warp, crack, or split. Countertops can be made from ceramic tile, granite, marble, slate and other natural stones. Outdoor Lighting Another area just as important is designing your outdoor kitchen is outdoor lighting. This can change and improve the overall feel of your outdoor kitchen. There are many types of lighting to choose from including: ambiance lighting that can include soft white lights or colored bulbs. Solar lights can be charged during the day and turn on automatically as it gets dark.
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Know your kitchen trends 1. Country Style - Often called Early American or Colonial as it is designed to create a lovely quaint farm style kitchen. Often such kitchens will feature open shelves, pot racks and have the feeling of it being well lived in. Such kitchens are usually accented by the various colour schemes relating to the actual cabinetry of the units. 2. Contemporary - More and more often this style is being used because of its clean and simple lines. Often the cabinets are quite futuristic looking have no carvings or ornate features on them. With this style of kitchen the emphasis is put more on style and practical sophistication rather than beauty and that warm lived in feel.
4. French Country - Such kitchen designs based on this style are warm and inviting with lots of wood and soft colours being used. Not only do natural materials feature heavily in this style of kitchen, but you will find that the furniture used is large and rather ornate.
3. Shaker - A simple and utilitarian style of kitchen that has flat panel doors, wooden countertops and brass handles (hardware). 5. Arts and Crafts - Yet again another style of kitchen decoration which is becoming more popular because of the use of feature glass doors and natural wood tones which are finished off in a matt sheen effect. Certainly with this style of kitchen decoration there is the chance for you to be a little bit more artistic and creative
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Creative Ways to Decorate and Furnish a Guest Bedroom by Jessica Ackerman Out of town guests want a place to stay where they feel comfortable while away from home, and using creative ways to decorate and furnish a guest bedroom is the ideal way to welcome guests. Make the most of visits with guests by providing them with a bedroom that makes them feel wanted and welcome. Consider the following creative ways to decorate and furnish a guest bedroom, and give your guests a place to stay where they will feel at home and more comfortable than they could ever feel anywhere else. Create a Welcome Basket Hotels sometimes offer small welcome gifts for guests, and those hosting a place to stay for family or friends should also consider creating a welcome basket filled with treats and overnight necessities. Select a basket, a small carrying case, or a plastic storage container to personalize and decorate the bedroom, and fill it with items such as trial-size bottles of shampoo and conditioner, a razor, shaving cream, toothpaste, and a few tasty treats. Include wrapped candy, healthy snacks, and packets of tea, hot cocoa, coffee, wrapped plastic spoons, sugar and cream packets, napkins, and decorative mugs. If space allows, provide guests with a drip coffee maker. In addition, fill a basket with magazines and books. Everyone needs time alone, and house guests will be able to enjoy a steaming beverage in the comfort of their bedroom while reading or relaxing. Provide a Comfortable Mattress and Bedding People are often tempted to place an old mattress in the guest bedroom when it should have been sent out with the trash years ago. Instead of outfitting the guest bedroom with a worn out sagging mattress that will not provide a night of comfort and restful sleep, invest in a new mattress. To keep guests comfortable and happy, decorate and furnish the bedroom with the type of bedding you would prefer instead of castoffs that could cause back pain and discomfort. Visitors should have all the comforts of home, and a comfortable mattress is the best way to start. In addition to a comfortable mattress, choose quality bedding including soft sheets and comfortable pillows. Look for sheets with a high thread count for superior comfort, and select high-quality pillows that you would want to use. Houseguests often bring their own pillows, but just in case they do not they will have a comfortable place to lay their heads and enjoy a restful nights sleep. The way in which a guest bedroom looks is as important as the comfort factor. Decorate and furnish the room with stylish bedding and accessories including luxurious throw pillows. A number of throw pillows of various textures and designs will help decorate the bedroom and make the bed appear more luxurious than ever.
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Furnish the Room with a Comfortable Chair and Side Table When striving to decorate and furnish a guest bedroom with the comforts of home, think of furnishings offered by fine hotels. If space allows, a guest bedroom should be furnished with a comfortable chair and a side table. The chair will provide an area to curl up with a good book, watch television, or spend a little time alone, and the side table will provide a place to hold beverages, reading material, and other items at hand. Guests should have a place to escape, and furnishing the guest bedroom with more than a bed and a place to hang clothes is a nice way to give them the ideal home away from home and decorate the room in a stylish way. A Creative Way to Provide Towels and Save Space Towels can be a problem when guests arrive, especially when a guest bathroom is not available and the main bathroom is small. Instead of looking for ways to hang extra towels and washcloths in the main bathroom, decorate a quilt rack with paint and selfadhesive designs. Hang clean towels and washcloths in the guest bedroom before guests arrive. This will keep the bathroom neat, and no one will have to wonder which towel or washcloth is theirs.
Furnish the Space with Room-Darkening Window Treatments The window treatments in any bedroom are important, and a guest bedroom is no exception. Not only do they decorate the room, but they also keep out morning light and provide necessary privacy. Do not skimp on window treatments. Instead, furnish visitors with room-darkening shades or blinds, and decorate the room with stylish drapery that matches the bedding. Decorate with Impressive Wall Decor When striving to stylishly decorate a guest bedroom and create an impressive and comfortable room for visitors, be sure to add wall decor that compliments the style of the room. Consider creating a focal point using a large framed wall mirror, and surround it with a pair of candle wall sconces that include color-coordinating fragrant candles or a pair of stylish wall planters. Fill wall planters with trailing ivy and beautiful arrangements of artificial flowers that match the color of guest bedroom decor. Sleep in the Guest Bedroom The best way to get an idea of how guests will feel while staying in the guest bedroom is to sleep in the room. After using the aforementioned ways to furnish and decorate a guest bedroom, sleep in the guest bed instead of your regular bed. If you are comfortable in the guest bedroom, chances are your guests will be too, and they will be thrilled with the steps you took to furnish and decorate the room and ensure their happiness and comfort while staying in your home.
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WEEDS fit into two categories: Grassy Weeds and Broadleaf Weeds. Additionally, weeds (much like grasses) will have their own respective growing seasons and life cycles. Weeds usually grow as either a Perennial (usually germinate every year) or Annual (Usually reproduce only by seed). After knowing the weeds you have or want to prevent, it is now time to figure out how to control them. Before we begin, there is a general rule of thumb when working with weeds: Know when the weed grows so • you can prevent it! Sounds simple right? Well, keep these two things in mind when thinking about weeds. Warm-season annual weeds tend to flourish during the warm summer months in the Northern states when cool-season grasses tend to go dormant. Conversely, cool-season weeds tend to grow and flourish during the fall and winter months in the southern areas of the United States when the grasses tend to go dormant. Weeds fight to live just like your grass does. As far as • the weeds are concerned, they don't know you don't want them in your lawn, so its best to prevent them from growing in the first place. Remember, your neighbor's lawn next door didn't get perfect on its own -- it had plenty of help! The following are the different ways to prevent and eradicate weeds from your lawn: Fertilizing: Fertilizing and/or applying pre-emergence can be very important in your efforts to control weeds. Results don't come over night, so be patient and understand why it is important! As discussed the section of fertilizing, it is important to know your lawn and when its growing seasons are. By doing so, you can identify (by following a schedule) the best time to stimulate your grass's growth and to fight off weeds. Additionally, many fertilizers can be mixed with, and/or are already mixed with, a pre-emergence and weed-
control to help prevent weed growth. By stimulating (with fertilizer) your grass growth just prior to its growing season/s, you can help crowd-out weeds from growing and fighting for space. Conversely, if you fertilize your lawn prior to periods of dormancy, you could actually end up feeding the weeds instead, and create much bigger problems. As you can see, following a fertilizing schedule and knowing the best time to use fertilizer is crucial in preventing weeds! Mowing: Mowing your lawn regularly and to the proper heights can help prevent weed growth. Mowing your lawn to its higher mowing range (see: how high should I cut my grass) will help crowd out unwanted weeds and prevent sunlight from reaching those weeds, helping to stunt weed growth. Additionally, when weeds are present, it is a good idea to bag your clippings so you can help prevent them from spreading throughout your lawn. This is especially important when the weeds are producing seeds!
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Pulling Weeds: Weeding is often considered a dreaded task, especially when it comes to pulling weeds from the ground. However, when it comes down to it, it's the quickest and usually the most effective way to do it! Most annual weeds should be pulled by hand, unless they have already grown too far out of control. The important thing to remember when pulling weeds from the ground is to make sure you pull not only the weed, but also its roots. Many deep-rooted weeds can grow up to 6 inches into the soil, and if not removed, those roots can grow back again. Depending on the size and number of weeds, most can be dug-up with weeding tool, potting trowel, or a small shovel. When digging-out the weed, make sure that you remove as much of the root as possible. Remember, the root should be completely removed, even to its root depth. If the roots are 6 inches deep, make sure you dig the roots up from that depth as well. This can be accomplished by loosing the soil around the weed roots and slowly removing the weed back and forth from the soil. If the ground is to hard, try soaking it a little to ease the root removal process. Some people will even use hot-water from a kettle to poor on shallow rooted weeds (like spurge) to help loosen-up the soil or even kill the weeds on the spot! Herbicides: You can’t walk into a lawn and garden store anymore without seeing a multitude of lawn herbicides on the shelves. Most are concentrated in a liquid form and can be sprayed by simply applying to a hose end. Herbicides are becoming more popular in use do to their increasing varieties and ease of use. Some herbicides are now formulated to kill certain weeds while at the same time not harming your grass. Just make sure that the label clearly spells this out before using. Many of the spray herbicides can be applied either to your entire lawn, or in certain spots were weeds are prevalent.. However, there are some down-sides and instructions to using herbicides that you should consider before use:
Herbicides are toxic and can cause health problems if not properly handled, used, or stored. Herbicides should not be used on new lawns until they are fully established (usually after four mowings). Herbicides should not be sprayed on windy days or in windy areas. If you have children or pets, you will need to check the herbicide container to determine how long they need to stay off of the lawn after applying. Only those herbicides that will not harm or damage your grass when applied should be used on your lawn. If you use the wrong type, you could end up killing not only the weeds, but also your grass! Always dispose of used herbicide containers and spray-nozzles after use. Most importantly, follow the instructions on the container label for proper use and safety! Aerating: Aerating is necessary for lawns that have never been aerated, get lots of foot traffic, and/or are planted in clay soils. If your lawn is developing weeds like Crabgrass, Chickweed, and Plantain, you may have a highly compacted soil that needs aeration to loosen it up and prevent these weeds from growing.
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Not checking your pool's chemistry often enough. Check the pool's chemistry twice per week in the summer and once per week in the winter. By doing this you can make minor • adjustments to your water chemistry instead of big adjustments that create a wild up and down graph of activity. Allowing pH to get above 8.0. At 8.5 chlorine is only 10% active. At 7.0 it is about 73% active. By just maintaining pH around 7.5 the chlorine is 50-60% active. Keeping the pH in • check will allow you to use to the full • potential the chlorine that is already in the pool. Not keeping alkalinity between 80-140 PPM. Low or high alkalinity can affect water balance and ultimately a sanitizer’s ability to • perform. Not checking TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) or calcium hardness on a regular basis. Check TDS every 6 months and calcium hardness every month. These also affect water balance which is different from sanitation, although • related. Not cleaning the cells in salt water systems (chlorine generators). Corroded or calcified cells will produce little chlorine. Backwashing sand or DE filters too often. If you do this, the filter can never reach its cleaning potential. If you backwash on a regular basis for no reason, you are wasting water. Most filters require backwashing when the pressure gauge rises 8-10 PSI from clean. Not cleaning the skimmer basket and/or hair and lint pot in the pool pump often enough. If these are full of debris you will get little flow resulting in poor circulation, potentially creating a big problem.
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Adding chemicals, especially liquid chlorine, during the day. Try to add chemicals in the evening after the sun has set. You will get more out of them. Not brushing the walls and tile down often enough. If your circulation system is suspect, and many are, brushing down the walls will help eliminate algae problems. Keeping your tile clean will save you money. Once the tile gets calcified it becomes like plaque and will take a specialist to get it off. Make sure that you keep the space between the bottom of the cantilever on the deck and the top of the tile in check. If this cracks, then put in some silicon. You do not want water migrating from the inside of the pool out under the decking. Not running pumps long enough. You should run your pump about 1 hour for every 10 degrees of temperature. This assumes you have a decent circulation system. It is ALL about the FLOW! Circulation IS the key to a low maintenance swimming pool. Not replacing broken or missing drains or suction sources. This a real and dangerous hazard. The same could be said for defective door/gate closers and fences in disrepair.
Written by John Smith ABC POOL Company 123 hsh lane Sayville Need advice or have a question call me at 1-800-PoolGuy
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Top 10 ways to boost your homes value •
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When you're house-hunting it's important to be able to identify the • In floor coverings -- especially bathrooms or kitchens -- look for things that increase the value of a home and those that actually ceramic tile or wood rather than linoleum, which can tear, says detract. The seller and his agent, after all, will try to convince you Strong. that rail line that runs through the backyard is good because it • In the rest of the house, wood or laminate products are a plus over provides extra green space. Here are 10 features that can add value wall-to-wall, says Gary Eldred, author of "The 106 Common Mistakes to your home, and another 10 that could reduce the sales price: Homebuyers Make (and How to Avoid Them)". 1. An updated kitchen. "Kitchens are critical," says Robert Irwin, • But if you have carpet, it should be a good product and well author of "Home Buyer's Checklist." "Today, people like a big kitchen maintained so that "a person doesn't have to walk in and think, 'I'm with a lot of workspace." going to have to spend five grand right off the bat," says Strong. They look for solid surface counters and high-quality flooring, such • 5. Curb appeal. "A good first appearance on a home can add as much as wood, laminate, tile or stone. And they want newer appliances in as 5 percent to 10 percent to the value of the home," says John Aust, working order. president of the National Association of Real Estate Appraisers. Even if it's not huge, it should have "countertops that are serviceable "Homes in a neighborhood tend to vary about 10 percent from house that aren't going to have to be replaced soon and cabinetry in good to house, assuming all other things are the same." condition," says Alan Hummel, past president of the Appraisal • 6. A light, airy spacious feel. "People buy space and light," says Myra Institute. "It has to be well-appointed and large enough to fit your Zollinger, owner/broker with Coldwell Banker Realty Center in needs." Chapel Hill, N.C. "I have yet to have anybody walk into a really dark And it doesn't hurt if it opens onto another room. "A lot of families house and say, 'I love this.'" are looking for that openness," says Hummel. • Richard "Dick" Gaylord, member of the executive committee for the {"width":"300","height":"250","ccid":"48852","campid":"23896","cp National Association of Realtors, agrees. "That's a very big feature," m":"0"} he says. "I haven't sold many homes that aren't bright and airy." It helps to have a window over the sink, says Don Strong, a • 7. Good windows. "People are looking at exposures and windows," remodeler with Brothers Strong Inc., a Houston remodeling firm. says Phipps. "It's been a cold winter for most of the country and energy efficiency is very important." Be wary if renovations are out of character with the community, such as granite countertops in a subdivision where plastic laminate is • Insulated windows are always a plus, says Strong. "Typically, they the norm. pay for themselves in five years," he says. The cost: for an average 2,600-square-foot home, estimate about $10,000 for new windows, "Will you sell faster? Yes," says Hummel, CEO of Iowa Residential he says. Appraisal Co., in Des Moines. "Will it sell for more? Not if the appointments you've done are significantly higher quality that the • Well-placed skylights are also a good touch to add value, says rest of the neighborhood." Phipps. 2. Modern bathrooms. Buyers are looking for "master baths that give • 8. Landscaping. Mature trees "are worth $1,000," says Strong. a little room to roam," says Hummel. • And having outdoor spaces with touches such as pergolas and {"width":"300","height":"250","ccid":"48852","campid":"23896","cpm":"0"} A big asset: spa or whirlpool tubs. "I'm always entertained by the Victorian garden swings "can be very helpful," says Phipps. people who have them in the master bath and don't use them," says • Appraiser John Bredemeyer remembers one $250,000 home in Ron Phipps, principal broker with Phipps Realty & Relocation Omaha that had no landscaping at all. "It was stark," says Services in Warwick, R.I. "But it's a big feature." Bredemeyer, national chair of government relations for the Some other features buyers are seeking: separate showers with Appraisal Institute, a professional group for real estate appraisers. steam and/or multiple jets, double sink, separate room for the toilet. "It just stood out as unappealing." And make sure the plumbing and hot water heater can handle the • Conversely, you don't have to spend a fortune on plants, either. Just job. The pipes have to be large enough to carry an adequate volume keep it "typical with the neighborhood," he says. of water and the hot water heater has to be big enough to • 9. Lots of storage. Nothing beats an oversized garage, some attic accommodate it. "You need a bare minimum of a 75-gallon hot space and plenty of closets. "If you have a two-car garage, do you water heater, and most of my customers have 100 to 150," says have extra space for those things we all have -- bicycles, lawn Chicago-based home inspector Kurt Mitenbuler. mower, snow blower?" says Hummel. "Space is important." "You don't want to see that false economy of a $30,000 bathroom • A nice plus in the master suite? "His and hers walk-in closets," says but nobody spent a few thousand dollars to upgrade the pipes," he Irwin. says. • 10. Basement. "If it's dry, it's a plus," says Kenneth Austin, co-author 3. A well-appointed master suite. "People are really excited about of "The Home Buyer's Inspection Guide." "But it's a negative if it has master suites," says Hummel. The wish list: a luxurious bathroom, water problems." lounging areas and walk-in closets. • A finished basement adds even more value. "Ten years ago, nobody 4. Natural materials. "People like natural materials," says Phipps. cared," says Mittenbuler. "Now everybody wants them." "Ceramic tile, hardwood floors, granite. We've gone back to a real appreciation for historically true materials. And simulated works as well. The look is very popular."
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