HOMEde on the
n a r G o Ri
Take One
FREE
2019
Finance & Real Estate Lawn & Garden Interior Design Remodel & Repair New Construction
Valley Publishing
(719) 852-3531
835 First Ave. • Monte Vista, Colo. Find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ValleyPublishing
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Page 2
Home on the Rio Grande
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Lawn & Garden
How to protect your yard from deer
With more than 60 different species of deer worldwide, there’s a good chance individuals will have some sort of interaction with these majestic animals at one point during their lifetimes. Deer, which live on all continents except Antarctica, can survive in everything from mountainous areas to wet rainforests to suburban neighborhoods. These herbivores are voracious eaters that will search far and wide for their meals. Home landscapes tend to be easy pickings for foraging deer. Many people are excited to see deer in their neighborhoods and yards because they can be such graceful creatures to behold. However, once deer start to munch on ornamental trees, annuals and flowering shrubs, the novelty of these animals may wear off. Furthermore, deer also can be covered in ticks that spread illnesses like Lyme disease. Here are some tips to keep deer at bay. • Avoid tasty morsels. Deer like English ivy, lettuces, impatiens, pansies, and hostas. Fruit trees also are targets. Choose other plants to grow, and wait until after early spring, when deer aren’t as concerned with regaining weight
lost during the winter, to get them in the ground. • Use fishing line to deter deer. Put a few stakes in the ground and then run fishing line at a height of about three feet. Deer can sense movement but do not have keen vision. As the deer approach your garden, they’ll brush against the “invisible” fishing line and then get spooked off. • Plant plants that produce strong aromas. The experts at Good Housekeeping suggest planting lavender and marigolds, which emit strong aromas. Deer will be reluctant to walk through because the smell can interfere with their ability to find food and assess their environment via their sense of smell. • Stock up on soap. The tallow in soap helps keep deer away, according to the University of Vermont Extension Department of Plant and Soil Science. Scented soaps like Irish Spring may be especially good at warding off deer. • Plant in levels. Raised beds and sunken gardens can discourage deer from coming into Courtesy photo Deer will seek out an easy meal, but homethe yard because they aren’t avid climbers, offers skittish, and any unfamiliar movement or sound the home and garden resource This Old House. may scare them away. Cans hung from strings, owners can take steps to safeguard their trees, flowers and shrubs. GT194817 • Employ harmless scare tactics. Deer are sundials and lights can keep them at bay.
Did you know?
Oxygen is essential for the roots of grass to breathe and grow strong enough to support healthy lawns. But according to the Center for Agriculture, Food and the Environment at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, compacted soil can produce a decrease in oxygen content that can make it hard for roots to thrive. Soil compaction can result from a number of activities, including walking on grass or driving or parking vehicles on grass. When soil is compacted, it breaks into small particles that
reduce the amount of pore space in the soil. That makes it hard for water, oxygen and nutrients to get through, threatening the strength of the roots and putting the grass in jeopardy. Aerating a lawn can help homeowners foster strong root growth and healthy grass. When to aerate may be contingent upon local climate, so homeowners who suspect the soil in their yards is compact should consult with a local landscaping professional to determine the best time to aerate their lawns. GT194809
SLV Garden Center, LLC The Sawyer Brothers 719-852 GROW (4769) • 1669 N Hwy 285 • Monte Vista (north of Dos Rio Restaurant)
Three Years Strong and Still Going!
Courtesy photo
Simple ways to prevent dog-related lawn damage
Dogs love spending time outdoors. Dog owners with yards know that dogs benefit greatly from some exercise in the backyard. While that time might be great for dogs, it can take its toll on lawns. Dog urine and feces can adversely affect the look and health of a lush green lawn. Nitrogen is essential to healthy soil, but only at certain levels. When those levels are exceeded, the result can be lawn damage. According to The Spruce Pets, an advisory site that offers practical tips and training advices to pet owners, this is what happens when pets frequently urinate on grass. Urine is naturally high in nitrogen, so when pets urinate on lawns, the grass might turn yellow or brown due to the excess nitrogen content. Nitrogen also is present in lawn fertilizers, further exacerbating the problem for pet owners who fertilize their lawns. In addition to urine damage, dogs can trample frosted grass, contributing to problems that may not become evident until spring, and get into areas like gardens where they wreak additional havoc. Pet owners who want to let their dogs run free in the yard but don’t want damaged grass may be tempted to put their pooches in diapers or confine them to crates when letting them outside. But such an approach isn’t necessary. In fact, some simple strategies can be highly effective at preventing dog-related lawn damage.
• Speak with a landscaper about planting new grass. Certain types of grass, such as Bermuda grass, can withstand dog damage better than others. Local climate will dictate which types of grass are likely to thrive in a given area, so speak with a professional landscaper about the viability of planting new grass. • Install fencing. Pet owners with expansive yards can install fencing that allows dogs to spend time exercising outdoors without granting them access to the entire property. Large dogs will need more room than small ones, but try to build fenced-in areas that allow dogs to run freely and get the exercise they need to stay healthy. • Work with a dog trainer. Dog trainers might be able to work with dogs so they only urinate in certain areas of the yard, greatly reducing the damage they can cause to a lawn. Trainers also might help curb digging and clawing behaviors that can damage lawns as well as gardens. • Consider hardscaping. Hardscaping might be most effective for pet owners with small properties. Hardscaping does not include grass and can add visual appeal to a property while saving pet owners the headaches of dealing with dog-related lawn damage. Dogs need time outdoors, and homeowners can take various steps to protect their lawns from dog-related damage. GT194810
The Valley’s Premier, Full-Spectrum CBD Store! Tinctures, Creams, Salves, Capsules, Pet Products and much more! Best selection in the SLV!
Specializing in customer service HOURS — Monday-Friday 9:30-5:00
XUV835M XUV835M
$400 OFF
$400 OFF
1
ALL MODEL YEAR 2018 XUVS
ALL MODEL YEAR 2018 XUVS
XUV835M
XUV835M
A RIDE FOR EVERY A JOB. RIDE FORAND EVERY BUDGET. JOB. AND BUDGET.
1
Factory-installed cab with optional heat and A/C Three-person cockpit Power for 701 West Ave steering 1345 North Hwy 285 maneuverability
Factory-installed cab with optional heat and A/C Three-person cockpit Power steering for maneuverability
Alamosa
Monte Vista
Off: (719) 589-4962 TF: (800) 241-4962
Off: (719) 852-5928 TF: (800) 952-5928
Fruita
1984 Hwy. 6 & 50 Off: (970) 241-5566 TF: (855) 256-556
Craig
Montrose
40
3025 West Victory Way 4766 N Townsend Off: (970) 824-6163 Off: (970) 249-4990 1025R COMPACT UTILITY TRACTOR TF: (800) 254-4020 TF: (800) 638-4774 23.9 hp (17.8 kW), Tier 4 diesel engine
X330 SELECT SERIES TRACTOR 20 hp (14.9 * 724 cc 1025R engine COMPACT UTILITY TRACTOR X330 SELECT SERIESkW), TRACTOR 42-in Accel Deep™ Deck 20 hp (14.9 kW),* 724MulchControl™ cc engine 23.9 hp (17.8 kW), Tier 4 diesel engine Optional Kit 42-in Accel Deep™ Deck Quik-Park™ Loader and AutoConnect™ 4 year/300 hour bumper-to Optional MulchControl™ Kit Drive-over Deck compatible bumper warranty** 4 year/300 hour bumper-to1 bumper warranty** FOR 60 MONTHS2
$200 OFF $200 OFF 1
0% APR
PLUS $500 OFF3
WITH THE PURCHASE OFTWO OR MORE IMPLEMENTS
Quik-Park™ Loader and AutoConnect™ Drive-over Deck compatible
0% APR FOR 60 MONTHS
www.ustractor.com
2
PLUS $500 OFF 3 WITH THE
PURCHASE OFTWO OR MORE IMPLEMENTS 1979 - 2019
1 Offer valid for $400 off on all New John Deere model year 2018 Gator XUVs and $200 off on all New John Deere X 330 Select Series Tractors purchased from a participating John Deere dealer between 1 March 2019 and 30 April 2019. Some restrictions apply, prices and models may vary by dealer. This can be combined with the regular installment options. Prices and savings are in U.S. dollars. 2 Offer valid on qualifying purchases made between 1 February 2019 and 30 April 2019. Subject to approved installment credit with John Deere Financial, for agricultural, consumer, or commercial use only. No down payment required. $16.67 per month for every $1,000 financed. 0% APR is for 60 months only. Taxes, freight, setup and delivery charges could increase monthly payment. Available at participating U.S. dealers. Prices and models may vary by dealer. Offer available on new John Deere 1025R Compact Utility Tractors and in the U.S. only. Prices and savings in U.S. dollars. 3 Offer valid for $500 off on all New John Deere 1 Family Sub-Compact Tractors when purchased with two or more John Deere or Frontier Implements from a participating John Deere dealer between 1 February 2019 and 30 April 2019. Some restrictions apply; prices and models may vary by dealer. This can be combined with the regular installment options. Prices and savings are in U.S. dollars. *The engine horsepower and torque information are provided by the engine manufacturer to be used for comparison purposes only. Actual operating horsepower and torque will be less. Refer to the engine manufacturer’s website for additional information. **Term limited to years or hours used, whichever comes first, and varies by model. See the LIMITED WARRANTY FOR NEW JOHN DEERE TURF AND UTILITY EQUIPMENT at JOHNDEERE.COM. Before operating or riding, always refer to the safety and operating information on the vehicle and in the operator’s manual. John Deere, the leaping deer symbol, and green and yellow trade dress are trademarks of Deere & Company.
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Home on the Rio Grande
Page 3
Lawn & Garden
How tree services can protect your property
Cold weather can take its toll on a property, especially in regions of the world where winters are harsh. Most parts of the landscape are vulnerable to damage from winter storms, but trees may be especially susceptible. By the end of winter, many homeowners wonder if their trees would benefit from some professional TLC. Tree services provide a host of services. While fall is a popular time to remove trees from a property, doing so in spring is not unheard of, especially if trees were affected by winter storms and now pose a threat to a home and the people who live inside it. Homeowners considering tree services can explore the following ways that some professional arbor attention can protect them and their homes. • Tree services can help protect a home’s foundation. Old trees that stretch well into the sky can be captivating, but they also can pose a threat to a home’s foundation. Such trees may have especially large root zones that may extend beneath walkways and even a home. In the latter instance, foundations may crack as roots try to stake their claim to the ground beneath a home. According to the home improvement resource HomeAdvisor, homeowners pay an average of just over $4,000 to repair foundation issues, though major problems can cost considerably more than that. A professional tree service can remove aging trees that might be beautiful and awe-inspiring but still pose a threat to a home and the areas surrounding it. • Tree services can improve visibility. Trees
that have aged a bit since their last trimming might affect the view of a property from inside a home. Overgrown branches can compromise residents’ ability to see and experience the natural beauty just outside their windows. The average homeowner may be able to trim short trees on his or her own, but if views from the second floor of a home or higher have been compromised, it’s much safer to call a professional tree service. Such services have the right tools and experienced personnel necessary to safely trim high branches on tall trees. • Tree services can help prevent future damage. Even if trees made it through a recent winter unscathed, that’s no guarantee next winter or even the coming seasons of spring, summer and fall won’t ultimately prove their undoing. Travelers Insurance notes that weather-related roof damage, including damage resulting from falling limbs and branches weighed down by snow during the winter months, accounted for more than half of all Travelers property loss claims between 2009 and 2016. According to BNC Insurance and Risk Advisors, homeowners may be liable if a tree they knew posed a threat falls onto a passerby or a neighbor’s property and causes damage or injury. Having all trees properly trimmed each year, but especially those that can fall on your home and your neighbors’ homes, may prevent future damage and legal issues. Tree services can ensure trees maintain their awe-inspiring beauty and help homeowners protect their homes and their belongings. SH192672
Summer is a beloved time of year that’s often dominated by time spent outdoors soaking up summer sun. But all that extra time outdoors can make people vulnerable to mosquitoes. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, mosquitoes are more than just hungry, unwanted backyard guests. In fact, mosquito-borne diseases, including the Zika virus, the West Nile virus and dengue, pose significant threats. While not all mosquitoes carry disease, even those that don’t can still bite humans, leaving them to deal with discomfort and itchiness. Taking measures to control mosquitoes outside your home can reduce your risk of being bitten by mosquitoes. • Remove places where mosquitoes like to lay their eggs. Mosquitoes like to lay their eggs in standing water. Once a week during summer and other times of the year when mosquitoes might be buzzing around, walk around your property to remove standing water. Bird baths, flower pots, kids’ toys, pools, old tires, and trash containers are some of the more common places where water can collect and present perfect places for mosquitoes to lay eggs. Turn these over to empty any standing water you
find. Remove empty flower pots and old tires from the property, and make sure water storage containers are tightly covered at all times. • Address areas where mosquitoes like to rest. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that mosquitoes like to rest in dark, humid areas. This includes car ports, garages and beneath patio furniture. Outdoor insecticides can prevent mosquitoes from resting in such areas. When inside a home, mosquitoes may be resting under a sink, in closets, beneath the furniture or in a laundry room. Indoor insect sprays and indoor insect foggers work quickly and can be highly effective, but reapplication might be necessary, as they won’t prevent more mosquitoes from entering the home at a later time. • Check your window screens. Mosquitoes might prefer the outside, but that doesn’t mean they won’t enter a home looking for meals if given the opportunity. Inspect window screens to look for holes that may provide mosquitoes with access to your home’s interior, replacing any damaged screens immediately. When leaving or entering a home, make a concerted effort to close doors as quickly as possible. GT194824
When tending to their lawns, homeowners are advised to pay attention to areas that may feature standing water. According to the World Health Organization, standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, which can breed in great numbers in pools of water. Mosquitoes are known to carry diseases like malaria, West Nile virus and Zika. Furthermore, mosquitoes that bite pets can transmit heartworms, a serious problem if gone it goes undiscovered. Standing water also can be a haven for bacteria, mold and parasites that are dangerous to human health.
If standing, stagnant water is a problem in your yard, remediation is necessary. Directing downspouts away from the house can remediate standing water. Changing the grading of soil so that low spots are elevated is another way to reduce instances of standing water. This may be a project that requires the assistance of a drainage professional. In addition, homeowners can remove standing water from empty flower pots, pool covers, bird baths, and more to reduce the likelihood that mosquitoes will appear on their properties. GT194816
Prevent mosquitoes from spoiling your summer fun
Did you know?
RMMP
Landscaping LLC and Materials
ALL Your Landscaping Needs
Largest Selection of Colored Rock, Decorative Rock & Gravel, Sand, Sod, Pavers, Patios, Topsoil, Trees, Shurbs, Synthetic Grass Etc. Licensed Landscaping Contractor
(719) 589-9070
FREE ESTIMATES
5868 S. County Road 106 • Alamosa
Courtesy photo
PO BOX 1134 1424 21ST ST. ALAMOSA 719-589-6994
IS YOUR EQUIPMENT READY FOR SUMMER? Sales, Service and Repairs on mowers, tillers, chainsaws, generators, pumps, engines and more! -Troy-Bilt mowers and tillers -Yamaha generators with efficient eco-throttle -Honda engines, generators and pumps
Great Selection of Blades, Belts, Parts and more! Prices competitive with big box stores!
County Line
Sma ll Engine Repair
719-589-6466 • 4521 E. County Rd. 12 S. • La Jara
Page 4
Home on the Rio Grande
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Finance & Real Estate Information for young parents to include in their wills
Courtesy photo
Tips for first-time real estate investors
Real estate can be a good investment that helps build wealth and secure a financial future. According to Investopedia, average 20-year returns in commercial real estate hover around 9.5 percent, while residential and diversified real estate average returns of 10.6 percent. Such figures may seem too good to ignore for many prospective real estate investors. But investing in real estate can be risky, and it’s important that first-time investors consider a host of factors before deciding to delve into the real estate market. Current finances Real estate can potentially yield big returns, but these may only materialize after investors spend ample amounts of money refurbishing or even maintaining their investment properties. Prospective investors without the capital on hand to finance repairs or routine maintenance may find it difficult to make their properties appealing to potential tenants, which can make it harder to meet mortgage payments. Prospective investors who already have sizable debts, be it consumer debt or existing mortgage payments, may want to pay down those debts before investing in real estate.
in real estate. Investors should not just make sure they can meet that 20 percent requirement, but also ensure they have enough capital left after making their down payments to address any repairs that need to be made. If not, they might have trouble attracting renters willing to pay enough in rent. Interest rates Prospective real estate investors may be surprised to learn that investment property loans are often subject to higher interest rates than those for home buyers borrowing to purchase a primary residence, says Quicken Loans. Investors should not count on getting the same or better interest rates for their investment properties that they did when buying the homes they currently live in.
Down payments According to Wells Fargo, mortgage insurance does not cover investment property, and loans typically require a minimum down payment of 20 percent of the value of the property. So prospective investors cannot count on mortgage insurance to finance their investments
Financial reserves Some lenders may require that prospective investors have sizable financial reserves before they will lend them money to invest in real estate. Some may require that borrowers have several months’ worth of reserves to finance both their personal lives and their investments. If a 20 percent down payment would make that impossible, then prospective investors may want to wait a little longer to invest and save more money until their financial reserves would prove more acceptable to lenders. Investing in real estate can yield big returns. But first-time investors should know that such investments are vastly different than investing in a home for oneself. MM17C529
Home ownership is a dream for people across the globe. Many people save for years before buying their first homes, squirreling away every dollar they can with the hopes they can one day become homeowners. But thanks to factors beyond their control, even the most devoted savers can sometimes feel like their dream of home ownership may never come true. According to the Pew Research Center, American workers’ paychecks are larger than they were 40 years ago, but their purchasing power is essentially the same. Things aren’t much different in Canada, where analysis from Statistics Canada and the Bank of Canada has shown that, since 2015, wage growth in Canada has been weaker than in the United States. Various challenges can make it difficult to buy a home. However, some simple strategies can help prospective home buyers build their savings as they move closer to the day when they can call themselves “homeowners.” • Determine where your money is going. If you’re finding it hard to grow your savings, audit your monthly expenses to determine where your money is going. Using exclusively debit or credit cards can simplify this process, as all you need to do is log into your accounts and see how your money was spent over a given period.
If you routinely use cash to pay for items, even just to buy coffee on the way to work, keep a notepad handy so you can jot down each expense. Do this for a month and then examine how you spent your money. Chances are you will see various ways to save, and you can then redirect that money into your savings account. • Become a more savvy grocery shopper. Another great way to save more money is to alter something you already do each month: grocery shopping. If you haven’t already, sign up for discount clubs at your local grocer. This is a largely effortless way for shoppers, especially those buying food for families, to save considerable amounts of money. Shopping sales at competing grocery stores also can save money. • Dine in more often. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says that Americans spend, on average, 6 percent of their household budgets on food. However, the USDA also notes that Americans spend 5 percent of their disposable income on dining out. If these figures mirror your spending habits, you can nearly cut your food spending in half by dining out less frequently. That might be a sacrifice for foodies, but it can get you that much closer to buying your own home.
How to save up for your first home
A will is a legal document that contains instructions as to what should be done with a person’s money and property upon that person’s death. While no young parent wants to think of their own mortality, parents must have wills to ensure their families are taken care of in the wake of their deaths. When devising a will, young parents should consult a legal professional to ensure they have covered all the bases. But the following is some of the basic information young parents should include in their wills. • Guardianship: Young parents should include instructions regarding guardianship of their children should they pass away while the children are under the age of 18. Parents should not assume that their wishes regarding guardianship, even if those wishes had been expressed often, will be followed should they pass away without a will. If no will has been written, laws may dictate that children go to a spouse or the deceased’s closest relative. Even if parents’ wishes regarding guardianship align with the law, they should still spell those wishes out in writing in their wills. • Assets: Young parents should use their wills to assign their assets so their money and property is distributed to their heirs in accordance
with their wishes. Parents should be as specific as possible when dictating their wishes regarding their assets. For example, parents who have invested in real estate and own more than one home should list the address of each property when assigning the homes to their heirs. • Executor: This person ensures the deceased’s wishes are met and works with the deceased’s attorney to ensure assets are allocated in adherence to the will. Before naming an executor, parents should first speak with the person to determine if they are willing to do so. The responsibility of serving as an executor is an enormous one, and parents’ initial choice may already be serving as executor of another estate and not want the additional responsibility. • Trustee: Young parents who desire to establish a trust for their children in the wake of their death also must name a trustee to oversee the assets left to their children if their children are too young to do so. The responsibilities of a trustee are similar to those of an executor, but overseeing a trust can last considerably longer than executing a will. For example, trustees may be asked to manage investments and periodically disburse funds for children of the deceased, such responsibilities can last decades.
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Home on the Rio Grande
Page 5
New Construction
How building permits protect homeowners
You are thinking of making a major renovation to your home. Perhaps it’s time to create that master bedroom suite you long have admired or install that wrap-around porch? What is the first thing that should be done before getting down to business? The correct way to begin a home remodeling project is to obtain the necessary permits for the job. Many municipalities request individuals obtain permits for a range of work on homes or other structures, such as office buildings. Permits are generally required for all new construction as well as specific modifications that will affect structural, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems. It’s important to check with the local building office prior to beginning work to see which permits you will need before the project can begin. Permits are necessary whether a homeowner is doing the work or hiring an outside contractor. Due to the cost and time involved with securing permits, some homeowners skip this step so they can begin a project promptly. However, this can end up being a costly mistake. Permits might seem like a nuisance, but they actually protect homeowners in various ways. Permits ensure safe workmanship Permits provide a blueprint by which contractors and do-it-yourselfers must complete renovations. Because inspections will take place, there is no wiggle room. Shortcuts often translate into subpar work that may lead to malfunction and injury in the long run. Safeguarding
against poor workmanship means homeowners can feel confident in the work being done.
Permits reduce the likelihood of costly mistakes As inspectors go through their checklists, they may notice things that were done incorrectly and will offer advice about how to mend the problem before it becomes a larger headache. If left unchecked, an electrical error could lead to a fire or another dangerous situation. Repairs that are not structurally sound may pose problems or deteriorate more quickly than structures that are constructed correctly. Furthermore, catching improper technique early on eliminates having to tear down and redo work, which can be a costly and time-consuming endeavor. Permits protect against fines Sometimes work goes as planned even for homeowners who did not obtain the necessary permits. However, years later, when other work needs to be done, inspectors may discover homeowners never secured proper permits and inspections years earlier, leading to fines. Furthermore, if work is done without a permit and an accident occurs, any damages or injuries may not be covered by a homeowner’s insurance policy. Permits are an important part of the home improvement process. Homeowners should not skirt the responsibility because the permit and inspection process is in place to provide protection to occupants. SH172750
Obtain the proper permits before beginning construction.
Courtesy photo
A&M Windows & Doors l.l.c.
Now Offering Mastic Vinyl Siding! LowMaintenance, Durable and Eco-Friendly!
~VINYL WINDOWS ~
NEW CONSTRUCTION OR REPLACEMENT CUSTOM MADE TO YOUR SIZE. MANUFACTURED RIGHT HERE IN THE VALLEY ALL TYPES OF DOORS & DOOR HARDWARE AVAILABLE
(719) 589-9952
215 N. Washington • Monte Vista
Local Manufacturers of Septic Tanks Large Inventory of Plumbing & Septic System Supplies
Courtesy photo
How to make sure your new home is built fast
(MS) — If you’re in the market for a newly built home, you probably have a long list of requirements for your builder. Everyone’s list is different, but one common element is that your new home needs to be ready quickly, or at the very least, on time. Yet we’ve all heard the horror stories of construction delays and families having to move out of their old homes before their new ones are ready. Fortunately, there’s a way you can help ensure your home is built faster — ask your builder to use insulated concrete forms. “A huge step forward is to replace the traditional wood framing of your house with what we call ICFs — insulated concrete forms,” says Keven Rector at Nudura, a leading name in this technology. “ICF construction assures the adherence to American building codes, it takes up less shipping space, requires less manpower at the site, and the assembly is faster than wood framing. Time-strapped builders and eager homeowners benefit equally from this efficiency.” The compact ICFs are delivered to the construction site, where each form interlocks with the next to quickly assemble one strong monolithic wall.
ICFs also do more than get you into your new home quicker — they maximize energy efficiency, reduce drafts and cold spots, form an effective barrier to unwanted outside noise, and make your home less prone to mold. In addition, homes built with insulated concrete wall systems are more environmentally friendly and disaster-resilient. “Our advanced design combines two panels of thick (EPS) foam with the structural strength and thermal mass of concrete,” Rector explains. “The resulting envelope immediately gives your house hurricane windresistance up to 250 miles per hour. Concrete walls also deliver an energy efficiency rating as high as R-50 (compared to an average R-20 in wood structures), saving you up to 70 percent on utility bills. With the concrete option, countless trees remain untouched and with lowered energy consumption and less tapping of natural resources every day, imagine how much your house will contribute to recapturing a sustainable environment over the years.” If you want your builder to use ICFs, be sure to discuss it early in the plans. Find more information online at nudura.com. TF169443
RMS Utilities, Inc.
Remodeling, Roofing or Spring Cleaning?
We Rent Roll-Off Dumpster Containers 15, 20, 30 and 40 yard Call for Availability and Pricing Free Delivery
6349 County Road 106.65 S • Alamosa (719) 589-4263 Email: rmse2005@yahoo.com www.rmsutilities.com
Page 6
Home on the Rio Grande
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Remodel & Repair
Tools of the home renovator’s trade
Home renovation projects can be both exciting and tricky. Do-it-yourselfers are inspired by designs showcased in magazines, websites and their own communities. When DIY enthusiasts see a design they like, it’s understandable that they may want to emulate these looks at home. Remodeling is one of the larger DIY undertakings, and it goes beyond simple carpentry. Considering demolition, reconstruction, electrical, plumbing, and masonry work may be part of the DIY package, homeowners who are thinking about renovations must first stock up on the tools and other supplies of the trade. Having the right tools can mean the difference between a job well done and a job that needs to be redone. • Crowbar or prybar: Before you can put in new construction, you might have to get your hands dirty with some demolition. Crowbars or prybars can be used to pry up wood slats, remove nails or remove old decking. • Tool pouch: A tool and fastener pouch gives DIYers a place other than their pockets to store fasteners and hand tools. Pouches can be attached to tool belts for added storage capacity. • Stud finder: Invest in a more fool-proof method of locating studs behind drywall then knocking on the wall. Stud finders can provide a picture of studs, pipes and other hidden items inside an
entire length of wall. This is essential to driving nails where they belong and can also prevent sending fasteners into wires or nearby plumbing. • Level: A level is an essential tool for everyone from casual decorators to more involved renovators. Whether hanging pictures or ensuring molding is parallel, levels are must-have tools for DIYers. • Safety glasses: Invest in a pair of safety glasses so no one working on a project deals with obstructed vision. Safety glasses also provide ample eye protection. • Extension cords: If power tools are part of the renovation picture, extension cords can safely extend power where it is needed. Be sure to invest in a gauge that is large enough to handle the amperage of your most powerful tool. • Measuring tape: The “measure twice, cut once” mantra is key to home improvements. To measure accurately each and every time, no tool chest is complete without a sturdy measuring tape. • Ladder varieties: Home improvements aren’t always at ground level. Purchase ladders of various heights so you can safely reach various areas of the home and avoid injury. Step stools, a step ladder and an extension ladder all have their purposes on the job. • Digital inspection scope: A scope lets you
Even though dust is ever-present both inside and outside of a home, when renovations are in full swing, dusty conditions are often exacerbated. Whether a home is new or old, numerous substances can be stirred up when removing walls, refinishing floors, removing tile, or expanding living spaces. These include silica from drywall, lead, asbestos, paint particles, and even waste from bugs or rodents. Homeowners who want to remodel with minimal construction debris floating through the air — both for health purposes and general cleanliness — may find these proactive steps helpful. • Prepare dust-containment plans. If a contractor is involved, it is often his or her responsibility to minimize dust. Do-it-yourselfers must make dust containment a priority. Protecting the floor and keeping the dust confined only to work areas can be
achieved with plastic sheeting and other barriers. • Designate an entrance and exit. The experts at This Old House say it is best to choose one doorway as the only means in and out of a work area. Ideally, this doorway should lead to the outdoors. All other doorways should be sealed on both sides. • Remove extraneous items. It’s best to remove clutter from the room, including any furniture that can be taken out of the space. This helps items from becoming dirty and hazardous particles from settling into nooks and crannies. • Close vents and registers. If forced air systems are part of the home, it’s best to divert air away from the work area. Block vents and intake registers so that dust does not clog the system or transfer to other rooms. • Cut items outside. Design advice site Houzz
Courtesy photo
see inside walls, floors and ceilings to find the to-maneuver areas. exact location of pipes, wires and joists. It also In addition to these tools, brooms, shop-vacs, can be used to seek out the source of clogged hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches and pliers can drains or anywhere you desire sight into hard- complete a DIYer’s basic toolbox. SH172751
Tips to help minimize dust while renovating says that some power tools have vacuum extractors to suck up dust at the point of contact, removing 90 percent of dust where it is generated. For those who do not have access to these tools, cutting and sanding can be done outdoors to keep dust outside. • Open a window. If weather permits, an open window can provide ventilation. Another idea is to create an air vacuum in the work area. Pick-
ing a window at the far end of the work area and mounting a window fan blowing outward can suck dust out and away from other areas of the house. • Clean up daily. By keeping on top of dust, including sweeping and vacuuming the work area frequently, dust will not accumulate and migrate elsewhere. Dust is a common side effect of home renovation projects, but it can be minimized. SH182687
589-4125 • 18 Conejos Ave. • Alamosa husmannplumbing@hotmail.com
H
usmann New Construction & Repairs
Call us for all your plumbing needs!
Courtesy photo
Cutting renovation materials outdoors can minimize dust generated in work areas.
5 weekend projects to try now
Home improvement projects range from major construction overhauls like bathroom remodeling jobs to smaller renovations that may entail something as minor as painting the walls. Smaller projects can often be conquered in a typical weekend but still provide a strong sense of accomplishment. The following are five projects tailor-made for weekend warriors. 1. Improve storage in the entryway. Home entryways are the first places many people drop mail, shed their shoes and toss their keys upon arriving home. As a result, entryways can quickly be overrun with clutter. Storage solutions can include putting in a desk or hutch with baskets underneath to store umbrellas and backpacks. Or hang a coat rack and create a shoe rack to store shoes until the time comes to leave the house once again. 2. Shed new light. Add some design appeal to your home by replacing an old lighting fixture
with something more modern. Such a task is relatively easy, and you need not possess the skills of a trained electrician. 3. Add molding for a finishing touch. Dress up spaces with crown molding or a decorative chair rail that goes around a room. You can even use molding to frame new or existing artwork. Find a molding style that complements the architectural style. 4. Update hardware in the bath and kitchen. Switch the handles, draw pulls and knobs on cabinetry with new hardware. The time commitment is practically nil, but you might just give rooms a whole new feel. 5. Patch and paint walls. Spend a weekend filling in holes left behind by since-removed wall hangings. If the patches dry quickly, paint over them. If not, resolve to do your patchwork one weekend and paint the ensuing weekend. FH168345
529
$
99
Minimum Install fee of $4999
500 Main Street, Alamosa, CO 81101
(719) 589-5895
Starter Home & Office Security System Package Includes:
• 1 Keypad Panel (English) • 3 Door/Window Contacts • 1 Infrared Motion Detector Other options also available. • 1 Key Ring Remote Call for details.
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Home on the Rio Grande
Page 7
Remodel & Repair
Surviving a home renovation project
Homeowners invest large sums into improving their homes to make them more comfortable living spaces or to increase their odds of selling quickly. The Remodeling Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University predicted U.S. spending on home renovations and repairs to peak at $327 billion in 2017. Whether one is doing a large renovation or a small remodel, life may be turned upside down during the project. Furniture may be moved out of the room, walls may be demolished, water or electricity may be turned off, and appliances may be missing or not hooked up. Home improvements often drum up dust and disarray. Such projects can try the patience of any homeowner, and things may get worse before they get better. Even though remodeling can be taxing, the end result is often worth it. Here’s how to look forward to the silver lining and come out unscathed. Discuss the project before it starts. All family members should be in agreement before the first hammer is swung. Decide on as many details as you can ahead of time and have a firm plan in place. Establish back-up choices for tiles or color schemes in case the items you want are out of stock. Trying to make decisions under duress may result in bad choices.
renovation materials. However, having no place in which to escape the mess can elevate stress levels. Do not think about renovating kitchens and bathrooms all at once, or you will not have any working fixtures for tasks like washing up. Have everything in place … Before demolition even begins, have building materials bought and stored, contractors and subcontractors lined up, and see what you can do to minimize the time workers need to spend in your home. … but expect delays. In a world where things move at lightning speeds, renovations have not gotten the memo. Home projects take lots of time and will likely take longer if you are doing the work yourself in your free time. Build lots of extra time into the project so you are not disappointed when delays happen — even when you’ve done your best to avoid them.
Plan an escape zone Construction environments can be messy, loud, smelly, and a host of other unsavory adjectives. The chaos that ensues when life is turned upside down can be overwhelming, particularly for the person who spends the most time in the home while work is being done. Build escape moments into the plan and make sure everyone else at home is on board. During the real grind Do one project at a time. It’s tempting to want to improve as much as of the project, a night or two at a hotel may be possible at once to maximize motivation and a welcome respite. SH182694
The NOWRA guide to your septic system Dos and Don’ts
The National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA) provides the following list of suggested tips for maintaining the longevity of your septic system. DO: Conserve water to reduce the amount of wastewater that must be treated and disposed. Repair leaking faucets and toilets promptly. Only discharge biodegradable wastes into system. Divert down spouts and other surface water away from your soil treatment area Keep your septic tank cover accessible for tank inspections and pumping. Have your effluent screen inspected and cleaned once a year. Have your septic tank pumped regularly inspected for leaks and cracks. Call a professional when you have problems. Compost your garbage or put it in the trash instead of putting it down the sink. Make sure any water conditioning or softening equipment is approved for use with your system and that it is properly set for your water conditioning/softening needs and operating correctly DON’T: Flush sanitary napkins, tampons, disposable diapers, condoms, wipes, cat litter and such products into your system. Dump solvents, oils, paints, thinners, disinfectants, pesticides or poisons down the drain; these can disrupt the treatment process and contaminate groundwater. Dig in your soil treatment area or build anything over it. Plant anything over your soil treatment area except grass. Drive over your soil treatment area or compact the soil in any way. Use a garbage disposal unless your septic tank was sized to handle the required sludge storage volume
at all times to prevent unauthorized entry.
Why Maintain Your Septic System? Maintaining your septic system saves you money Regular maintenance fees of $165 to $500 every two to five years is a bargain compared to the cost of repairing a malfunctioning system, which can cost between $7,000 and $10,000 for a conventional system. Alternative systems can cost $10,000 more. The frequency of pumping required for each system depends on how many people live in the home and size of the system. Maintaining your septic system protects your property value An unusable septic system or one in disrepair will lower your property value and potentially can pose a costly legal liability. Maintaining your septic system keeps you and your neighbors healthy Household wastewater contains disease causing bacteria and viruses and high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, if a septic system is well maintained and working properly if will remove most of these pollutants. Insufficiently treated sewage from septic systems can cause groundwater contamination, which can spread disease in humans and animals. Improperly treated sewage poses the risk of contaminating nearby surface waters threatening swimmers with various infectious diseases, from eye and ear infections to acute gastrointestinal illness and hepatitis. Maintaining your septic system protects the environment More than four billion gallons of wastewater are dispersed below the ground’s surface everyday. Groundwater contaminated by poorly or untreated household wastewater poses dangers to drinking water and the environment. Malfunctioning septic systems release bacteria, viruses and chemicals toxic to local waterways. When these pollutants are released into the ground, they eventually enter streams, rivers, lakes and more, SAFETY FIRST! harming local ecosystems by killing native NEVER physically enter a septic tank or plants, fish and shellfish. Learn more about other parts of the treatment system. Call your how septic systems can help support greener, service provider! Keep access areas locked more sustainable communities.
Courtesy photo
Planning, patience and an understanding of what the project entails can make home improvements easier to survive.
Septic Tanks
• Cleaning & Maintenance • Delivery & Installation • Grease Trap Cleaning
Nationally Certified Inspectors & Installers Excavation
• House Sites • Large Irrigation Pipeline • Utility Trenching & Reservoir Construction
Drains & Sewer Lines
Installation - Cleaning Repair - Thawing Camera to Locate Problem Areas
weaverslevelbest.com
Home on the Rio Grande
Page 8
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Interior Design
How to transform a fixer-upper
The real estate market will always have its ups and downs, but real estate is an oftprofitable investment. Real estate investors do their investing for various reasons. Some see a house as a place to hang their hats for years and years, while others look at properties as nothing more than investments. Buying a home with the intent to fix it up and resell it is called a “fix and flip.” In such situations, investors buy homes at below-market prices before refurbishing the homes with the goal of recouping their initial investment and then some when the homes are ultimately put back on the market. Flipping has become popular for both expert remodelers and novice investors. RealtyTrac®, the nation’s leading source for comprehensive housing data, noted in its “Year-End and Q4 2015 U.S. Home Flipping” report that 5.5 percent of all single family home and condo sales during the year were flipped properties. This marked an increase from the same time the previous year. Investing in a fixer-upper requires a leap of faith and a vision of what the home can look like in the future. Turning a real estate lemon into lemonade requires certain skills and a good measure of patience. The following are some guidelines to get anyone started. • Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Make an honest assessment of your abilities and which renovations, if any, you can handle. If you are unskilled or inexperienced working with your hands, then it can be easy for an investment property to quickly become a money pit. Before purchasing a property, hire a trained home inspector to tour the home with you and point out all of the areas that will need renovation. With this list, begin getting estimates on how much
money the work will entail. Determine if this fits with your budget or not. You do not want to invest so much that it exceeds what you could feasibly recoup when it comes time to sell. • Overlook cosmetic things when visiting properties. Cosmetic issues include all of the easily replaceable items in a home, such as carpeting, appliances, interior paint colors and cabinetry. Focus on the bones of the house — the architectural integrity and those little touches that you envision having a “wow” factor. • Seek the help of experts. Some flippers think they’ll save the most money by doing all of the work themselves. This isn’t always the case. Professional architects, designers and contractors may help you save money. Contractors have an intimate knowledge of where to buy materials and may be able to negotiate prices based on wholesale or trade costs. In addition, experts can help you avoid common pitfalls because they’ve already done this type of work time and again. It’s smart to rely on expert advice, even if it means investing a little bit more. • Save money by doing some work yourself. While the pros may tackle the more complex parts of a given project, such as rewiring electricity or changing the footprint of a home, you can still be involved. Ask to participate in demolition, such as taking down walls or removing old materials from the home. Such participation may be fun, and it can save you substantial amounts of money on labor. • Recognize that not everything must be completely redone. Realize that, in some instances, a coat of paint and some new accents may be all you need to transform a space. For example, if kitchen cabinets are
Carpets provide both practical and aesthetic appeal inside a home. In winter, carpets help keep homes warm, and the right color carpet can add to design schemes. While rugs may have originated in the Far East, North America also has some rich carpet history. According to The Carpet and Rug Institute, the United States carpet industry began in 1791 when the first woven carpet mill opened in Philadelphia. Others soon followed suit. Tufted carpets and machine-powered manufacturing helped churn out yards upon yards of carpeting, making it a popular, affordable and common addition to homes, especially after the post-World War II housing boom. Carpeting remains a go-to flooring material in modern homes. In fact, many homes offer a blend of both carpeting in some rooms and different flooring choices in others. Upon choosing carpet, it is important that homeowners follow some guidelines to prolong a carpet’s longevity and maintain its style. The following are some common carpeting dos and don’ts. DO consider the room’s purpose and foot traffic before shopping for carpeting. Make a list of the attributes desired (e.g., soundproofing, easy care, high pile) and present these to the salesperson so he or she can help you make the best choice. DON’T rush into flooring choices. Unlike paint colors, flooring materials are more permanent choices that are only updated every several years or more. Weigh all of your options before diving in.
DO consider conservative colors and styles. Neutral hues and patterns will blend better with furniture options. This means you can change furniture out and still keep the existing carpeting, which complements any new pieces. Also, if there’s a chance you might sell your home in the near future, buyers tend to look for a neutral color scheme they can make their own. DON’T skimp on padding to save a few dollars on the carpet installation. The carpeting needs a solid foundation to last and look its best. Inadequate padding can lead to extra and noticeable wear and tear. Invest in a good foundation for the carpeting, like firm, dense padding in hightraffic areas. DO become knowledgeable about different carpet styles, such as frieze, Berber, Saxony, textured, and more. This will help ensure you make the most educated decision. DON’T purchase at the first store you visit. Shop around to investigate different pricing and specials. Also, consider the professionalism and expertise of the staff responsible for carpet installation. High-cost carpet may not look very good if it isn’t installed correctly. DO stain-protect rugs and carpeting, which can help repel stains that would otherwise become permanent and can prolong the longevity of the flooring. DON’T forget to vacuum carpets frequently to prevent ground-in dirt and debris. DO pick textured carpets to conceal footprints and vacuum track marks. SH162859
Courtesy photos
in good condition, see if they can be refaced or painted instead of replaced entirely. Install new door pulls/handles to add visual interest. Look for some ready-made items, such as bookshelves, instead of installing custom carpentry. • Think about what the buyer wants and not what you want. Renovate with an eye toward prospective buyers’ needs. Keep
things neutral and accommodating. Research the latest trends to understand what buyers might be seeking in a home. You want potential buyers to envision themselves moving right in. Renovating a fixer-upper takes time, but it can be a worthwhile project, and one that can help anyone turn a profit in a booming real estate market. FH168344
Find and maintain the right carpet for you
Find us on Facebook at
https://www.facebook.com/ValleyPublishing
Courtesy photo
Homeowners should consider as many variables as possible, including foot traffic in a given room, before installing carpeting in their homes.