2015 Fall Home Guide by The Issaquah Press

Fall Home 2015

GUIDE

Special publication of the Issaquah Press Inc. Media Group. Published in The Issaquah Press & Sammamish Review | October 22, 2015

Fall Home

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Fall Home

Backyard upgrades, additions create year-round oasis If you’re finding it difficult to say farewell to all the fun you enjoyed in your backyard this summer, now is the perfect time to make upgrades that let you enjoy your outdoor living space all year long. When making changes to a comfortable and familiar setting such as your own backyard, it’s important to keep both aesthetics and function in mind. The following ideas let you achieve a stylish look while introducing new touches that make it possible to enjoy your backyard to the fullest, any time of year. Extend your grow-

ing season — and lend a burst of color to the landscape — with a greenhouse that lets you continue to cultivate fresh veggies and flowers in a temperature-controlled environment. Work the house seamlessly into your backyard design by choosing from compact models that have about the same footprint as a sandbox (or even smaller) up to larger walk-in units the size of a detached shed. Make your backyard oasis a true wellness retreat with a spa that offers therapeutic relaxation under the stars. Nothing warms up a

cool night like a toasty fire, and flames dancing in an open pit set a special ambiance for evening gatherings out back. Options are limited only by your imagination: Integrate a freestanding version into your existing patio layout, create a stone walkway across the yard to a seating area surrounding a fire pit ringed in stone or introduce a whole new hardscape to your patio with a small builtin fireplace and chimney. Full or partial patio enclosures offer a natural extension of your indoor space, affording the views and ambiance of the outdoor environ-

ment with protection from elements such as wind and rain. A wide range of options let you choose how close to nature you will be, from open-air pergolas that deflect precipitation to retractable screens and windows that keep brisk air at bay. A lush landscape lends more than an appealing appearance to a yard. Strategically planted vegetation can serve functional benefits such as deflecting wind or providing a protective canopy overhead. Adding foliage that blooms late in the season or maintains its color year round lends a fresh

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aesthetic, and you can draw birds and other wildlife all year long with plantings that offer both

food and shelter. Source: Family Features

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Fall Home

7 safety tips to prepare your family for power outages When weather or other unforeseen circumstances cause a power outage, a portable generator may be the perfect solution. Although there are many benefits to using a generator as a temporary power source, some may be unaware of the dangers. Part of being prepared for an emergency is having a portable generator to supply power in the event of an outage. Many homeowners opt for portable generators when temporary or remote electric power is not readily available. They provide flexibility, convenience and the ability to power lights and comfort devices, such as fans or space

heaters, when the power goes out. While taking advantage of these benefits, users need to exercise caution to avoid a serious risk associated with the misuse of portable generators: carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide, contained in toxic engine exhaust, is tasteless, colorless and odorless. It also can be deadly. That’s why the Portable Generator Manufacturers’ Association recommends you take time to become familiar with your generator and all of its safety operation instructions, as well as warnings about potential hazards. Keep the operator’s manual in a safe place so you can refer

to it easily, and always keep these safety tips in mind: 1. Read and follow the operator’s manual before starting the generator. 2. Never run a portable generator indoors or in partially enclosed spaces, even if you plan to use fans or open doors or windows for ventilation. 3. Always take your portable generator outside, placing it downwind with the engine exhaust pointed away from occupied spaces. 4. Avoid placing a portable generator near windows, doors or vents, as carbon monoxide gas can accumulate and potentially be drawn

indoors. 5. Install batteryoperated carbon monoxide alarms according to manufacturer’s instructions. Replace batteries and test the alarm regularly to ensure it is in good working condition. 6. Know how to recognize the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning: headache, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, weakness and fainting. 7. If you feel sick, dizzy or weak while using your portable generator, get to fresh air immediately and call 911 for emergency medical attention. Learn more about how portable generators can provide a safe

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Source: Family Features

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Fall Home

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Fall Home

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Fall Home

Creating a healthier home can give you peace of mind Dirt. Grime. Bacteria. Airborne allergens. As hard as you try to keep your home clean, these types of yucky things are an everyday reality. Taking the necessary steps to create a healthy home can not only give you peace of mind, but also help keep your family healthier. “People think that if your home looks clean and smells clean, then it must be clean and therefore healthy for their family. However, when you look closely, you may be shocked by all the ‘yuck’ you find,” said Dr. Roshini Raj, attending physician and a clinical associate professor of medicine at the NYU School of Medicine. “Taking control of your home can make a big difference when it comes to living a healthier life.”

Raj suggests these changes for a healthier home: Learn the tooth truth. Most people know to brush their teeth at least twice daily for good oral hygiene, but what they don’t often think about is what is lurking on their toothbrush between uses. Viruses and bacteria can live for weeks on a toothbrush’s surface. Make sure you’re storing your toothbrush properly in an upright, dry place and use an antibacterial toothbrush cover to kill germs. Most only last 60 to 90 days, so make sure to swap out your toothbrush, as well as your cover, regularly. Be air aware. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, indoor levels of air pollutants may be two to five times higher than

outdoor levels. Make every breath count and really pay attention to indoor air quality. Use filters in your heating and cooling systems to pull in and trap unwanted air particles such as dust, pollen, bacteria and viruses, while letting cleaner air flow through. Also, check filters monthly and change them at least every three months. If you burn scented candles regularly, use a fireplace or have construction in progress, change your filter more often, as these contribute to poor indoor air quality. Don’t be a track star. Every day, we walk through items like car oil, allergens, pesticides and other toxins. Remove your shoes before you enter the home to avoid dragging them throughout your

home. If you have carpeting, take extra care as pollen and other allergens can be brought into the home on your shoes and then harbored in the fibers of rugs and carpets. Here comes the sun. Have you ever felt sluggish after sitting under the artificial lights in your home? Research shows that people who spend more time in natural lighting than artificial have increased productivity and alertness. So open up those blinds and drapes to let natural light shine in. Start a technology detox. In today’s binge-watching culture, it’s all too easy to let that next episode of the hottest show auto play. Remove TVs and computers from the bedroom for more and better quality sleep. You’ll be glad you did when you feel

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energized and have a more productive day after a solid seven to eight hours of slumber. Source: Family Features

Fall Home

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Fall Home

Detect, destroy mold for better health around the home Mold in your home is a serious matter that can cause not only substantial property damage, but also significant harm to your health. Any mold infestation requires immediate attention and cleanup, but it could be growing in a place you cannot see and still affect your health. How mold affects health According to the Centers for Disease Control, mold exposure can affect people in a range of ways, from nasal stuffiness and eye irritation to wheezing and skin irritation. For those who are especially sensitive or who have a mold allergy, the reactions can be more severe. Mold can also pose a higher health concern for those with asthma and other illnesses or compromised immune systems. Some research, including a 2004 study by the Institute of Medicine, also suggests that mold can cause respiratory illnesses in otherwise healthy people. Identifying a mold problem If you or your family members are exhibiting symptoms consistent with mold exposure that cannot be attributed to another illness, you may find a mold problem in your home is to blame. Mold can vary in appearance but often you can readily recognize its white to greenish or black spotty appearance. You may also notice a damp, musty odor in areas where mold is growing. When mold is visible to the eye, it’s easier to connect your health con-

cerns with the mold growth. However, if you’re not aware of any mold in your home, you can do some additional investigating yourself. A simple DIY kit such as the Healthful Home 5-Minute Mold Test Kit can detect mold spores accumulating in household dust, including the types most associated with water damage and health issues. The leading mold test sold on Amazon.com, this test can be conducted on-site and provides results in as little as in five minutes, bypassing delays for lab testing associ-

ated with many at-home kits. The test has been validated in an Environmental Protection Agency-licensed lab as the most sensitive and accurate rapid test available.

A dose of prevention Depending on the degree and type of mold you discover, you may be able to clean it up and eradicate the problem yourself. If the growth is exten-

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sive, you will require the assistance of trained professionals to locate, eradicate and prevent further spread of the mold contamination. Once the mold has been safely removed, you can take some steps to prevent chances of a reoccurrence: q To help trap airborne mold spores and other allergens, be sure the filter you iStock are using is correctly rated for your HVAC system. A filter that is too restrictive for your air blower may overstress and burn out the motor. q A humidity level more than 65 percent invites mold growth. An inexpen-

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sive electronic humidity meter can monitor your rooms and identify areas that need better ventilation or dehumidification. q If your attic or crawl space has high humidity, have it checked by a professional for possible solutions before mold takes over. q Vent appliances properly and install exhaust fans in rooms that see high levels of moisture, such as bathrooms, laundry rooms and kitchens. q Identify any sources of moisture or leaks throughout the home, including faucets and around windows and doors, and take steps to correct them.

Source: Family Features

Fall Home

Keep your yard healthy in five easy steps

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A beautiful lawn can be the foundation to a happy, healthier life and lead to spending more time outdoors. In fact, 86 percent of Americans consider their lawn important to their home and life. “A healthy lawn encourages you to live life outside more with your family, friends and neighbors,” said Dr. Kirk Hurto, chief science officer at TruGreen. “There’s no time like late summer and early fall to start preparing your yard for those spring and summertime outdoor gatherings.” While a recent survey conducted by TruGreen showed that seven out of 10 Americans believe themselves to be knowledgeable about

the health of their yard, the lawn care experts at TruGreen offer these helpful reminders to get your yard ready for fall: Aerating Aeration involves removal of soil cores to improve water and air movement in compacted soils, and aids in promoting deeper and more root growth and thatch management. Long term, your lawn will respond quicker to fertilizer and water runoff will be reduced when irrigating. Overseeding When it comes to increasing lawn thickness and health, overseeding can be essential. It can help discourage future

weeds while also aiding recovery from summer heat, disease and insect activity. Seeding during late summer or early fall will give grass the maximum time to develop a deep extensive root system and mature before the onset of winter stresses. Aeration is recommended when overseeding to give seeds more soil contact and provide a moist, protected environment required for germination. Feeding Fall feeding gives your landscape the nutrients needed to prepare for a healthy, green spring revival. Hiring a trained specialist with a plan customized to your region

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will help trees and shrubs thrive. Make sure to follow the fertilize product directions and sweep all fertilizer that may reach pavement back onto your lawn. Maintaining health and appearance There are things you can do to maintain your yard’s appearance and health. Remove fallen tree leaves and debris from your lawn. Studies have shown mulching tree leaves back into your lawn effectively clears away tree leaf debris that otherwise can become matted and damage your lawn over the winter. Lowering the mower height by one or two settings the last couple mowings before winter reduces grass diseases associated with snow. Avoid walking on frostcovered lawns as doing so may cause brown footprints to appear later that can remain visible until spring. Clean and edge landscape beds, leaving no more than 2-3 inches of mulch in the beds. Pruning Pruning is an essential maintenance practice for trees and shrubs. Landscapes can quickly become overgrown if not cared for, but yearly pruning will maintain trees and shrubs to an ideal size and shape. Remove dead or damaged branches from trees and shrubs to prevent rot organisms from invading the trunk and stems of plants. Source: Family Features

Fall Home

Winterize your outdoor living space in these five easy steps Ahh the backyard — it’s served you well all summer. But now the seasons are changing and colder weather is on the way. Which means you need to prime your property from the ravages of winter. Since you can finish your indoor winterizing as temperatures get cooler, it makes sense to winterize your outdoor living space first. With that in mind, here is a five-point checklist to help safeguard your home from Jack Frost for another year: Prep your deck. Your beautiful deck has been a source of outdoor enjoyment all summer long, so now it’s time to protect your beloved structure before winter rears its ugly head again. Of course, the amount of work you have to put into winterizing your deck depends on your decking material. All decks require some upkeep. Preserve your deck’s luster, start by cleaning it with a warm soapy solution and a soft bristle brush (never power wash). It’s important to you remove all dirt and debris from the surface and in between the boards because the more ventilation your decking has through the colder months, the better it will look come springtime. Next, inspect the deck for the presence of mold. If present, wash the deck with a mild oxygen bleach solution and leave on the surface for

30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Finally, remove anything that might leave marks on the deck’s surface from inconsistent weathering — think outdoor furniture, movable planters, door mats etc. As for finishing your deck with a fresh coat of stain etc., that’s really more of a spring job (i.e. you’re off the hook for another six months). Inspect your windows. Take a stroll around your home’s exterior and inspect each of your windows to see if any gaps or cracks are present. If you find some, apply caulking to the openings, which will prevent cold air from seeping through these cracks during the winter, which, in turn, will cut down on your heating bills! Protect those planters. These days, most planter boxes are made with Western Red Cedar. That’s because it’s naturally resistant to rot, decay and insects and therefore doesn’t require treatment from potentially dangerous chemicals that can leach into your soil and plants. But like all garden beds, cedar planters need protection during the winter months. Start by removing all soil and cleaning the boxes as you did the deck. Then, if possible, store your emptied planters in a garage, shed, under the porch etc. If you can’t, cover them with a waterrepellant tarp to protect

from moisture buildup — but make sure you don’t seal the tarp. As with decks, it’s very important that you allow for proper ventilation. Trim those trees. As you walk around your house inspecting your windows for cracks and gaps, this is also a good time to take a look at your trees. Look for trees that are old, appear weakened or diseased. In addition to the trees themselves, you should also check for any dead branches, particularly those hanging near or over your home. As snow accumulates over the winter, the weight may be enough to bring a diseased tree or branch down, potentially damaging your home. Eliminate this risk by removing any dead trees or branches now before the first snow starts to fly. Guard the grill. If grilling is one of your favorite summertime activities, you don’t have to abandon it just because winter’s coming. A Real Cedar BBQ cover can protect you from the elements, allowing you to grill all year long. And because the cover is made from a naturally resilient wood like cedar, you’ll be BBQing in all kinds of weather for years to come. You can find free plans to build your own BBQ cover in Real Cedar’s outdoor section. Source: BPT

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total encasement and non- waterproof cotton or wool. If you want to stay ‘organic’ there are felted wool mattress pads that are moisture resistant. Total encasement will also protect against the dreaded bed bugs. It is better to prevent stains from getting to your mattress than trying to take them out of the mattress.

3 Since most mattresses today are no-flip mattresses it is very important to rotate your mattress at least twice a year. Even mattress that say you don’t have to rotate, it is best to rotate them. It is especially important to rotate if you and your partner have a big weight differential. There is no getting around gravity and we all tend to sleep in roughly the same spot. If your mattress is flippable, than I recommend you use daylight savings and spring rotate – fall flip. If your mattress in one sided than rotate twice a year to wear evenly. 4 Since we lose moisture (up to 2 pints per night) when we sleep, once a week when you change your sheets, let the mattress air out for a few hours. Also, when you are vacuuming the room, vacuum the mattress. This will suck out the dust and the little dust mites that like to take up residence in your mattress. 5 Try not to sit on the edge of the mattress. When we sit, we are heavy in one spot and can break down the edge of the bed. If you absolutely must sit on the edge of the bed, sit in different spots not just in one spot all the time. 6 Spoiler, don’t let the kiddies jump on the bed. I know that this is so much fun, but nothing breaks the bed down faster than lots of kids jumping on the mattress. It is not only bad for the mattress but can break the slats of the foundation.

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Fall Home

Pops of pattern can instantly upgrade your interiors No matter where you turn, pattern inspiration is all around you — from modern architecture and traditional flooring to animal furs, floral arrangements and fashion runways. As homeowners and designers look to personalize spaces and create impactful interiors, patterns are being replicated with paint on walls, floors, furniture and more. “Pattern always catches my eye and is my go-to element for adding something special to a space,” said Grace Bonney, design expert, founder of Design*Sponge and author of the bestselling book “Design*Sponge at Home.” “For me, a pattern is almost always greater than the sum of its parts,” Bonney said. “Beautiful paint colors combine with brilliant linework to create something simple or so over-the-top that it can transform a room instantly.” ScotchBlue Brand partnered with Patternbank, experts in modern style and design, to analyze the world of

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a bold, modern twist. Sharp angles and a fractured, abstract look bring dimension to the standard stripe, and add strong visual impact to even the most awkward spaces around the home. Consider using neutral paint colors for more traditional and elegant looks or brighter colors to infuse energy into the space. Mod optic — Bold geometric designs are making their way into home decor with subtle shifts in scale and color. These strong 3-D patterns create a clean, modern style that communicates sophistication and audacity. Infuse contrast and depth to create a clean, modern backdrop for existing decor. The pattern allows you to play with a combination of light and dark colors as a way to add different levels of drama based on the space. Geo elemental — From north and south to east and west, global influences — Continued on Page 13

Fall Home

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Family Features

Take your home from boring to beautiful by adding depth, color and personality through new paint trends. From Page 12 can be seen in architecture, interior design and on fashion runways. Merging traditional shapes such as zigzags and diamonds with various color treatments adds a modern feel to deeprooted tradition, creating a meeting point for contemporary and universal. The lively repetition of eye-catching, sharp lines is ideal for spaces that draw attention in one direction and evoke a strong sense of place. Using earth tones and natural colors add to the global feel of the pattern, while cool neutral colors provide a calming aura. ’70’s revival — With retro trends making a comeback in both fashion and design, modernizing retro-themed patterns energizes the home and carries a whimsical accent throughout the space. Give a nod to the stylish looks of the ’70s by building on lavish shapes with modern

styling and fresh forms. The combination of highcontrast colors and the big impact of the pattern help make the space feel dynamic and lively. Found fragments — Layering pattern on pattern gives you the creative license to have fun experimenting and showcasing your personal style. With clean lines or shapes

juxtaposed against existing prints and designs, this pattern keeps your space down-to-earth while still being on trend. Diversify existing decor elements by layering multiple patterns and mediums to adapt any space to match your changing styles. Source: Family Features

Family Features

Sharp angles and a fractured, abstract look bring dimension to the standard stripe.

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Fall Home

Home upgrades that won’t bust your fall budget If you’re looking for ways to improve your home but don’t have the budget for a fullscale renovation, look at upgrades that add instant value with a smaller investment. Projects that enhance existing features or add new functions to the home are smart ways to spruce up the aesthetics and improve livability without breaking the bank. In between extreme weather seasons is the perfect time to tackle home-improve-

ment projects, so this fall consider some smallscale projects that can make a big impact on your home. Revitalize worn woodwork Nothing ages a home’s appearance faster than tired, weathered woodwork on the front porch or back deck. These structures are typically major focal points of a home’s exterior, so sprucing them up can go a long way Getty Images

— Continued on Page 15

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Fall Home From Page 14 toward transforming the overall aesthetic. A fresh coat of stain or paint is a minimal investment to bring fresh life back into your entryway or backyard living space. Pull out a new kitchen look If changing the cabinets isn’t an option, you can still create a new look with a minimal investment. Wipe down cabinets thoroughly and apply a coat of paint to make them look their very best, then look for subtle changes that bring a wow factor, such as new hardware. Simply changing out dated pulls for a more contemporary look in a new color can bring a new mood to the room. Clear away clutter and add some fresh accessories for a whole new look. Punch up the power Adding function can be as valuable as aesthetics when it comes to enjoying your home to the fullest. When bad weather or other factors interrupt your power supply, a standby generator lets you run appliances such as air conditioners, heaters, refrigerators, clothes washers/dryers, lights and electronics, minimizing the inconvenience of a power outage. For extended outages, a generator can even save money, preventing unexpected costs from spoiled food or hotel stays. Hooked up to a home’s existing propane or natural gas line, a standby generator system, often

called a home generator, switches on by itself when power fails. Look at new lighting. The lighting in a room has a significant impact on its overall feel: a bright, airy room exudes energy while a dimmer, soft illumination evokes a cozy impression. Changing up the lighting can completely transform a space. Use window treatments such as drapes and blinds to control natural light and lend a stylish addition to the room. Floor and table lamps are ideal for more subtle task lighting, while overhead fixtures can make a stronger statement. Explore a new floor Over time, the rich pile of new carpeting

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loses its inviting spring, and once-sharp grout lines fade and crumble. If a thorough cleaning still leaves your flooring looking drab, it may be time to explore alternatives. Replacing heavily worn carpet in high traffic areas with a more durable option such as wood or tile may not only improve the look, but also prove a smart investment as it wears better in the future. If you still enjoy the look of your tile, consider removing and replacing the grout, then sealing it to protect the finish. Don’t feel beholden to the original color; a new shade can introduce a whole new color dimension to the room. Making updates to

your home is a natural part of ownership and a good way to protect and grow your investment. Fortunately, making a big difference doesn’t always have to come with a big price tag attached. Plan ahead to save Before embarking on a home improvement project, there are several steps a homeowner can take to manage the time and expense while making the effort run more smoothly: q Regardless of the type of project you’re planning, research the possibilities before you get started. From comparing prices to evaluating styles and features, knowing all your available options will help ensure you make right

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choices for your needs. q When evaluating appliances or equipment, pay attention to variables that may affect the overall project cost. For example, installing a generator with a power management system can help meet your home’s backup power requirements with a smaller, more affordable generator. This can potentially knock hundreds if not thousands of dollars off a generator purchase with a little research ahead of time to find the right-size generator needed for a home. q Determine a budget, and stick to it. Be realistic and remember that a little more investment up front may buy quality that will save money on repairs and replacements down the road. Another good

rule of thumb: Add an at least 10 percent buffer to help cover unexpected expenses. q Assess whether the project is something you can tackle on your own, and whether time or ability may impede your progress. If you need to enlist help, gather estimates and check references for at least three contractors. q Set expectations for yourself and your family about how long the project will take. If you’re working with a contractor, get a time projection in writing, as well as a written agreement about what happens if the project runs past deadline. Source: Family Features

Fall Home

Name: 11320/Issaquah Cedar & Lumber Width: 58p3.3 Depth: 10 in On Page: 16 Request Page: 0 Type: Display Color: Black plus one File Name:

43.11320.FH&G.Q