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Home on the Rio Grande
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Wednesday, March 21, 2018
Preparing garden beds for spring and beyond when it’s mostly dry. Gentle tillings also can open up the soil to incorporate the nutritional amendments and relieve compaction that likely occurred from freezing temps and snow pressure. Tilling also helps with drainage and oxygen delivery to roots. The DIY Network suggests turning over soil at a depth of 12 inches to work the soil — about the length of a shovel spade. However, the resource Earth Easy says that existing garden beds have a complex soil ecosystem and simply top-dressing with compost or manure can be enough preparation for Soil composition Many gardeners prefer growing a variety planting. Gardeners can experiment with the of plants in their gardens. Such an approach methods that work best for their gardens. requires taking inventory of the type of soil in Nutrition one’s garden and making the necessary modiTesting the pH and the levels of certain nutrifications so that the types of vegetables, herbs, shrubs, or flowers that will be planted can grow ents in the soil, namely nitrogen, phosphorous in strongly. In fact, according to the plant com- and potassium, will give gardeners an idea of pany Proven Winners, the most important step other soil additions that may be needed. Soils to developing good roots is preparing the soil. with a pH below 6.2 often can benefit from the Take a sample of the soil and examine it to addition of lime several weeks before planting. see what is present. If the soil is too full of Soil tests will determine just how much fertilclay, too sandy, too dense, or too loose, that can izer to add to the soil. Complete fertilizers will lead to problems where plants cannot grow in have equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous strong. Work with a garden center to add the and potassium. Individual fertilizers can amend right soil amendments to make a rich soil. This the soil with only these nutritional elements Begin preparing garden bed soil early for new plants. may include organic compost or manure, which that are needed. Top-dressing empty beds with a layer of will also add nutrients to the soil. mulch or compost can prevent weed growth and preserve moisture until it is time to plant. Cultivation Cultivating the soil can involve different If existing shrubs or plants are in garden beds, steps. Removal of weeds, errant rocks, roots, and use more care so as not to disturb roots or dig other items will help prepare the soil. Mother too deeply. Preparing garden beds takes some effort Earth News suggests working on garden soil when the soil is damp but never wet; otherwise, initially, but can be well worth the work when garden soil can become messy and clumpy. Use plants flourish throughout the growing season. a digging fork or shovel to lightly turn the soil GT184844 Gardening enthusiasts may have been thinking about their landscape plans throughout the winter, eager to once again get their hands dirty with soil. Whether a home gardener is making preparations for edible crops or beautiful flowers, he or she must take time to make the soil amenable to planting. To establish hearty, durable plants, gardeners can focus on three main areas: addressing soil composition, cultivating and adding nutrients.
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Gardening during a drought During the early and oftentimes raindrenched days of spring, it can seem like there may never be a time when plants will struggle to get their share of water. But drought can affect any area, and arid climates in particular. Ensuring gardens can survive drought takes patience and forethought. Drought can be particularly troubling for avid gardeners because it can wreak havoc on lawns and gardens. In addition to causing changes in the physical appearance, including wilted, dried out leaves and stalks, drought can weaken the integrity of plants. This makes plants more susceptible to disease and attacks from plant-preying insects, according to Better Homes & Gardens. In addition, it can take years for plants to recover from drought. So what can gardeners do? While they may not be able to prevent damage to plants from drought, gardeners are not helpless. • Water well infrequently. Get plants used to a thorough watering every week or every other week. This will help develop strong, deep roots rather than shallow ones that will need frequent watering to thrive. • Choose drought-tolerant plants. Homeowners can work with garden centers and landscape professionals to create gardens that are full of water-wise plants and flowers. Some examples of plants that can survive with minimal water include the blanket flower, Spanish lavender, euphorbia rigida, and kangaroo paw. • Apply a layer of mulch. Mulch can protect delicate plants and the rest of the landscape by reducing the evaporation of soil moisture.
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Succulents are good drought-tolerant plants to include in landscape designs. Mulch will keep soil cool and moist. • Skip the fertilizer. Since fertilizers encourage plant growth, it’s best to skip them during drought, as growing plants require extra water. • Invest in rain barrels. When it rains, maximize the amount of water that can be collected by connecting rain barrels to downspouts on the house. This water can be used to water gardens when dry weather returns. • Use organic materials. Amend the soil with organic materials, like compost. The Grow Network advises that light, fluffy soils with air pockets in between the soil particles route water efficiently during floods and retain moisture for plants. Therefore, such soils can perform very well during drought. Gardens can survive drought with simple actions and smart planting. GT184840
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Home on the Rio Grande
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Three ways to use your lawn to improve curb appeal Returns on home improvement projects vary. In its annual Cost vs. Value Report, Remodeling magazine notes the projects that yield the best returns on investment in a given year. But a host of factors, including the type of market (buyers’ or sellers’) and the region where the home is being sold, ultimately combine to determine if homeowners’ investments in home improvement projects will provide the returns they were hoping for. Though there’s no way of guaranteeing a home improvement project will yield a great return, real estate professionals often cite improving curb appeal as an excellent way to attract prospective buyers and potentially get the asking price or more when selling the home. Improving curb appeal makes even more sense in today’s real estate market, when many people do their own searching via real estate websites such as Trulia or Zillow. When using such sites, buyers will likely be less inclined to click on a listing if exterior photos of the property are not eye-catching. Various projects, including tending to lawns and gardens, can improve curb appeal. An added benefit to focusing on landscaping to improve curb appeal is it promotes spending time outdoors in spring and summer. In addition, many lawn- and garden-related home improvement projects need not require professional expertise.
buyers a correct impression about how homeowners maintained their homes. Lawns with multiple dead spots and grass that appears more brown than green may lead many buyers to assume that the home’s interior was equally ill-cared for. Maintaining lush green lawns is not as difficult as it may seem. Applying fertilizer and aerating at the appropriate times of year (this varies by region) can promote strong roots and healthy soil, making it easier for grass to survive harsh conditions like drought. When watering in summer, do so in early morning or evening so as little water is lost to evaporation as possible.
2. Address brown patch. Even well-maintained lawns can fall victims to brown spots. According to the lawn care professionals at TruGreen, lawns in regions with hot temperatures and high humidity can be infected with brown patch, a common lawn disease that is caused by fungus, which can produce circular areas of brown, dead grass surrounded by narrow, dark rings. Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences notes that removing dew that collects on grass leaves each morning, which can be accomplished by mowing or dragging a water hose across affected areas, can be an effective way to reduce brown patch. Homeowners without much lawn care experience can consult professional landscapers 1. Maintain a lush green lawn. to address the issue. But those looking to sell Lawns that fall into disrepair may not give their properties should note that buyers often
walk the grounds of homes they are considering because dog urine can be high in nitrogen. buying. So addressing any issues on the lawn Nitrogen itself is not harmful to lawns, but in should be a priority for sellers. high concentrations it can contribute to yellow or brown spots. Also, highly acidic dog urine 3. Confine dogs to certain areas. may even adversely affect pH levels in the soil. Dog owners may want to let their pets roam Curb appeal can go a long way toward helpfree in their yards. But homeowners about to put ing homeowners sell their homes, and a lush their properties up for sale may want to confine lawn can be used to catch the eye of prospective their four-legged friends to certain areas. That’s buyers. GT184855
Ergonomic gardening techniques can make gardening less taxing Gardening is a popular activity that seems to be gaining even more supporters. Statistica reports that the number of people who gardened within the last 12 months in the United States rose from around 105 million in 2008 to 118 million in 2017. Gardening can be relaxing yet physically demanding work. Gardeners who find themselves battling aches and pains after spending time in the garden may need to make a greater effort to reduce injuries and improve comfort when tilling, weeding or installing new landscape features. Ergonomic gardening techniques and tools can help gardeners reduce their risk of injury and make gardening more comfortable.
handled tools and push mowers should be Even though gardening is viewed as a relaxas tall as the person using them. Seek out ing pastime, the work involved can be taxing tools that keep the body in natural positions on the body. Ergonomic tools and proper form Keep items close can keep injuries at bay. GT184848 Keeping work closer to the body will reduce to maximize efficiency. the need for stooping, leaning or reaching, which should cut down on pulled muscles. Long-handled tools can help minimize reaching. Use step ladders to reach high areas or get down on padded cushions to work closer to the ground. This alleviates strain to the neck from having to look up or down for extended periods of time. Raised garden beds can bring plants to a person’s level. The therapists at ProCare Physical Therapy say that working below shoulder level whenever possible can prevent shoulder strains; otherwise, perform tasks for no more than five minutes at a time. rather than the back.
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Warm up Just as novice athletes wouldn’t dive right Invest in new tools into a strenuous workout at the gym, nor Cushioned grips and grip handles can should novice gardeners immediately pick prevent wrist fatigue, as can hand tools that up a shovel and jump into digging a hole for keep wrists straight to improve strength and their new tree. Gardening requires bending, reduce repetitive motion injuries. Longstooping, lifting, twisting, and other movements that work the entire body. Spending 10 or more minutes stretching, walking and doing a few back and arm rotations can limber the body up for the physical activity to come. Use proper form Think about the mechanics of lifting weights during a workout, as home and garden tasks may mimic movements made when exercising. The occupational therapists at Bend Spinal Care say that strain on the lower back can be reduced by positioning objects close to the body and its center of gravity when lifting them. Furthermore, people can contract their abdominal (core) muscles when lifting and bending to support the back. When lifting heavy objects, power should be derived from the legs and buttocks
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Home on the Rio Grande
Wednesday, March 21, 2018
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.
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 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 before they will lend them money to invest for their investment properties that they did in real estate. Some may require that borrowwhen buying the homes they currently live in. ers have several months’ worth of reserves to finance both their personal lives and their Financial reserves investments. If a 20 percent down payment Some lenders may require that prospec- would make that impossible, then prospective investors have sizable financial reserves tive 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
The various ways going green saves consumers money
Many people adopt eco-friendly practices in an effort to protect and preserve the planet. But going green can be as good for adults’ pocketbooks as it is for the planet. People who start making concerted efforts to go green are often surprised to learn the myriad ways they are suddenly saving money. While finances might not be the primary motivator that compels people to start living more eco-friendly lifestyles, recognizing the many ways that going green can save consumers money might be just what people need to keep them on track in their efforts to help the planet.
smoothly. That means the engine does not have shoppers can likely find older, less costly to work as hard as it would if a vehicle was items for a fraction of the price of brand new furnishings. Buying used furniture or antiques poorly maintained, thereby conserving fuel. reduces landfi ll waste and cuts back on manufacturing, packaging and transportation, Lighting Household lighting is another area where each of which can take a toll on the planet. consumers can protect the planet and save Consumers who need new furnishings for money at the same time. According to the U.S. their homes also can look for products made Department of Energy, Energy Star®-qualified LED lights consume just 20 to 25 percent of the energy used by incandescent bulbs, all the while lasting as much as 25 times longer than incandescents. That saves men and women money on their energy bills. While LED lights are more expensive to purchase than many of the alternatives, their long life expectancy means consumers can expect to see returns on that investment long before the bulbs are no longer functional.
On the road Drivers who alter their driving habits can save money in various ways. Defensive driving has long been touted as the safest way to take to the road, but such an approach to driving also can be financially savvy. Drivers who do not frequently accelerate or stop suddenly can Furnishings Another way to go green and save money conserve fuel, saving them money at the filling station. In addition, following manufacturer- is to forgo new furnishings for used furniture recommended maintenance guidelines can or antiques. Some antiques might prove more ensure all vehicle components are operating expensive than brand new items, but savvy
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Furnishing a home with antiques can protect the planet and may even save homeowners money.
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of recycled materials, which reduces landfill waste, or items made from eco-friendly materials that grow quickly, thereby reducing the need for pesticides. Going green is a commendable way to live and safeguard the planet. Adopting such a lifestyle also can be a great way to save money. TF182700
Wednesday, March 21, 2018
Home on the Rio Grande
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Tips on how to choose a septic service
Major changes coming to new home building methods (MS) — Across America, home builders are adopting new approaches to construction to create greener homes with better resale value. One major change that’s tackling energy consumption and rising fuel costs is the use of an airtight, solid concrete system to replace inefficient wood framing. Insulated concrete forms (ICFs) erect a building with an interlocking system, similar to Lego. “It’s a switch for builders, but those who have switched over tell us it’s quite easy to build with ICFs,” says Natalie Rodgers of Nudura, a leading name in the field. “Customer demand has driven this change and builders are now seeing how green construction options can have a positive impact on their business.” The ICF system is now the number one choice of wall-building methods for “netzero” construction in the country. The term net-zero applies to buildings that are energy efficient and don’t tap into any public utility fuel supplies. The goal is for as many homes, schools and public buildings as possible to be designed to be net-zero. Here are some advantages of net-zero construction using ICF. Building guide. Underscoring these proactive measures, the nonprofit organization LEED also reminds us that constructing a green home leaves a much smaller carbon footprint due to less demand on natural re-
sources. Such homes will create less waste and be healthier and more comfortable for the occupants. Fuel savings. Walls built with ICFs are proven to reduce energy bills up to 60 percent, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reduce or eliminate exposure to mold, mildew and other indoor toxins. The net cost over time is comparable to owning a conventional home and the resale return is generally assured. Durability. Concrete is strong. Due to highimpact resistance, these concrete walls assure maximum safety in high wind areas. Fire resistance is also reported to be maximized at four hours. Comfort. Unlike in conventional wooded frames, air gaps are eliminated in ICF, minimizing the potential for mold growth and draft. The end result is an airtight structure that enables the mechanical systems to heat, cool and ventilate the structure more efficiently, creating a healthier living and working environment. Responsibility. The materials are recyclable and the system is designed to create less landfill waste during the construction process. Combined with other eco-construction methods, this concrete system will significantly reduce carbon emissions by lowering the amount of fossil fuels needed for heating and cooling. TF17B517
If you live in a rural area or don’t have access to municipal sewage system, you most likely will be on a septic system. Although septic tanks can operate for years without problems, every system needs to have routine maintenance and pumping done. The secret to longevity is maintenance. But maintenance and repairs on a septic system are not necessarily something a weekend handyman is capable of undertaking, nor should it be something he or she should take up. It is important to find qualified professional companies to make sure your septic system is working properly and to give them the proper maintenance and services that are required. A reputable company will have highly trained individuals who understand how to work around the dirty liquids that are in your septic system. They also understand what to do and what not to do, so damage is minimal to not only your septic tank but your yard. Properly trained professionals with inspection equipment can help you avoid digging up your entire yard and can usually accomplish normal maintenance with minimal damage to your landscape work. But, like any repair around your house, the issue of budget always arises. Remember, your septic system is an integral part of your house. It is no different than having to have your roof repaired when it leaks, or the windows taken care of if they become broken. Don’t let your septic system overflow in your yard, not only is this a sure sign of a problem but it’s the equivalent of letting your roof cave in before you fix a leak. It is important to understand just what you’re getting when you get ready to pay for your septic service. You should always be careful about
just paying for the cheapest services, as they may not be qualified or trained well enough to provide the services you need. In the long run, going cheap could cost you twice as much since you may need to rehire other professionals to come fix the problem later. Part of understanding what you will pay for is knowing what you need done with your septic system. You can help reduce the cost of a standard pump-out if on your property you’ve located the clean-out ports or lids. There typically should be two lids for your septic system. That means you won’t be paying a professional to do manual labor such as digging for those ports in your yard. You should also understand what the company will do during a standard pumping. Are you hiring them simply to pump the tank and take the sewage away? In some cases, professional septic companies also offer a maintenance or inspection service along with the routine pumping. This usually costs a bit more than a standard pumping, but it could be worth the extra money given the peace of mind you will have with your system checked and working properly. If possible, try to find one company to provide all of the drain-cleaning and septic services needed rather than hiring multiple companies. A single company will often give a price break as opposed to hiring and rehiring other people to come in and take a look at your system. A good idea is to find a company that offers weekend and emergency services. So how do you find a company to hire? You can look first in the newspaper or phone book. Trusted companies with a good reputation can save you hundreds of dollars in selecting the right company.
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Home on the Rio Grande
Wednesday, March 21, 2018
The benefits of hiring professional contractors The DIY movement has inspired many homeowners to tackle home repair and remodeling projects on their own. DIY projects can be rewarding, and many homeowners who have embraced the DIY movement have discovered talents they never before knew they had. But no matter how simple popular home renovation television shows make remodeling projects appear, homeowners should know that such undertakings are far more difficult than they appear on television. Homeowners who overestimate their abilities and the time they have to complete projects can cost themselves substantial amounts of money. In fact, there are a variety of reasons homeowners might want to work with professional contractors when tackling home improvement projects.
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Homeowners capable of pitching in on home renovation projects can save substantial amounts of money on labor costs.
Pitch in and save money Home improvement projects can be expensive. While the size and complexity of a project will affect how expensive the project is, homeowners can expect to shell out a pretty penny when they renovate or remodel areas of their home. According to HomeAdvisor, an online resource for homeowners looking to connect with home improvement, maintenance and repair professionals, the average bathroom remodeling project costs $9,348, while the average home addition costs slightly less than $41,000. But renovation-minded homeowners need not reconsider their commitment to remodeling, as there are various ways to cut the costs associated with home improvement projects. One such way is for homeowners to pitch in and do some of the work themselves. Calculating labor costs can be difficult, as such costs can vary greatly depending on the project, the contractor and the amount of hired help that contractor intends to employ. However, some estimates suggest labor will account for anywhere from 25 to 50 percent of the overall cost of the project. So it’s no surprise that homeowners can save themselves substantial amounts of money by doing some of the work themselves. Homeowners who intend to do some of the labor themselves should discuss this plan with contractors during the vetting process. Before hiring a contractor, make sure homeowners’ expected labor contributions are clearly defined in the contract. While it’s best to leave the most complicated parts of a project to the professionals, homeowners can pitch in during the following phases.
• Demolition: Demolition involves more than picking up a sledgehammer and swinging away. Some demolition projects are best left to the pros. For example, any projects that involve exposure to hazardous materials are risky and therefore best left to experienced laborers. However, many homeowners are capable of safely and effectively pulling cabinets from walls, removing flooring or knocking down drywall. Homeowners unsure of how to approach demolition tasks can ask their contractors to demonstrate the proper technique so the demolition is done right and on time. • Salvage: Removing debris and items that will no longer be needed once the renovation is complete is another way homeowners can pitch in. Homeowners remodeling their kitchens may be replacing their existing stoves and refrigerators and hoping to donate these items. In such instances, driving the items to the donation site or arranging for them to be picked up rather than taken off the premises by the contractor or his employees can cut labor costs, as it allows laborers to keep working toward the end goal rather than requiring them to leave the work site to drop unwanted items off. • Cleanup: Homeowners also can save costs by cleaning up after the contractors at the end of each workday. Speak with the contractor about cleaning up the site each day, asking him or her what can be discarded and what must remain on-site. Home improvements are costly. But homeowners who are capable of pitching in can greatly reduce the overall cost of their next renovation project. SH172753
Did you know? Debris from home improvement projects can often be recycled. According to Waste Management, the largest residential recycler and renewable energy provider in North America, common construction materials such as concrete, porcelain, tile, lumber, metals, masonry, plastic, carpet, and insulation can potentially be recycled. When recycled, debris from construction projects may ultimately be used in various ways to benefit the planet. For example, such debris may
used as inerts that become road base, while clear wood may be transformed into mulch or biomass fuel. Crushed concrete can go on to live a second life as gravel or become dry aggregate for new concrete. Homeowners who want to recycle as much of their home improvement project debris as possible can work with Waste Management and/or their contractors to ensure the materials they no longer need continue to be put to good use. SH182699
particular one. Veteran contractors can draw on years of experience to create designs that DIYers might be incapable of coming up with and/or incapable of seeing through to completion.
Cost Conventional wisdom suggests it’s less expensive to do something yourself than to hire someone else to do it for you, but that’s not necessarily true of home improvement projects. Labor costs typically account for a substantial amount of professionally contracted projects, but homeowners can cut those costs by volunteering to do some of the simpler tasks themselves. In addition, contractors often purchase materials at a much lower cost than individual homeowners because contractors buy in bulk. So while labor costs might be Experience lower on DIY projects, the cost of materials Atrial and error approach can work with vari- can offset those savings. ous projects and problems. But applying such an approach to home improvement projects is Resale value risky and potentially dangerous, not to mention Many homeowners renovate their homes costly. Experienced professional contractors with eyes on improving the resale value of with strong track records (seek recommenda- those homes. But if homeowners want to tions from friends or neighbors) won’t have showcase a newly remodeled kitchen when to go through trial and error and are therefore selling their homes, they should be prepared more likely than DIYers to complete a project for prospective buyers to ask who worked on on time and on budget. the project. Fearing potential problems down the road, some buyers might be put off by Inspiration homes that were remodeled by DIYers and not One oft-overlooked benefit of working with professional contractors. professional contractors is the likelihood that Renovating a home on your own can be a they can draw up ideas for projects that home- rewarding project for homeowners. But it’s owners might otherwise never have thought up important that homeowners recognize the on their own. Homeowners without specific many benefits of working with professional ideas in mind can ask contractors to come up contractors before making any final decisions with various scenarios before committing to a with regard to who will tackle their next project.
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Home on the Rio Grande
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Learn how to prevent DIY injuries Thousands of people try their hands at do-ityourself home improvement projects every year. Whether working indoors or outdoors, wearing safety gear and exercising caution is a necessity when undertaking any home remodeling project. According to the Home Safety Council, one in five consumers will need medical attention this year as a result of home improvement projects. A 2013 survey by 3M TEKK Protection and the National Safety Council found that more than one-quarter of DIY home improvement projects ended with injuries to homeowners or someone else in the household. Falls from ladders, cuts from power tools and injuries from thrown debris account for many emergency room visits. Accidents involving chemicals and cleaning agents also can occur. Safety should be the utmost priority when renovating, and that means utilizing appropriate safety equipment.
Footwear Wear solid shoes that provide considerable traction during home improvements. A firm, reinforced toe is helpful as well. Should any items fall, they’ll be less likely to cause injury
if your foot is encased in a protective boot or well-ventilated areas. This will help dissipate sturdy shoe. Soles that grip surfaces will help the smell and prevent inhalation of concentrated chemical substances. Masks guard against dust, safeguard against slips and falls. pollen and some other microscopic particles and may not provide enough protection, depending Eye protection Safety goggles and glasses are a must-have for on the job. The Home Depot suggests using any do-it-yourselfer. They will provide a barrier particulate or filtration respirators when performbetween the eye and flying debris. According to ing tasks, such as sanding, where you might be VisionWeb, an eye education resource, most of the exposed to particles. Gas and vapor respirators 110,000 eye injuries that occur each year in homes offer protection against additional substances. within the United States result from splashes with Create a safe environment household cleaners, flying debris such as wood When working at home, make sure to use chips, or getting hit by branches. Many of these injuries can be prevented by wearing eye protection. tools in the manner in which they were designed. Keep power cords tidy so they do not pose a tripping hazard. Falls from ladders often occur Ear protection Power tools can be quite loud. When operat- when climbing above the recommended rung or ing loud, powered machinery, use earplugs or engaging in risky behavior while on the ladder, safety earmuffs to reduce the risk of damage to such as reaching or hanging over too far. When outdoors, exercise caution in inclement hearing and potential hearing loss. weather, which can make it harder to work safely. Courtesy photo Be sure there are no bystanders too close when Ventilation and respiratory protection When working with chemicals and other using power tools or tools that can kick up debris. Respiratory protection is essential when The right safety gear and some smart do-it- dealing with particulates in the air and products that have strong odors and/or emit particulates into the air, make sure you do so in yourself techniques can help DIYers avoid injury. vapors.
Must-have kitchen remodel features Homeowners looking to renovate often see room for improvement in their kitchens and bathrooms. The National Association of Home Builder’s Remodeling Market Index Survey, which measures conditions in the remodeling market, indicates that, in 2015, the two most common remodeling jobs were bathroom remodels (81 percent) and kitchen remodels (79 percent). According to HGTV and Statistics Brain, a new kitchen remodel for a kitchen measuring 12 by 12 feet may cost homeowners anywhere from $17,000 to $37,000.
Oversized sink Although high-efficiency dishwashers are popular, deep sinks to soak soup pots or woks are still useful. Deep sinks may be preferable to double sinks, especially for homeowners who use lots of kitchen tools when preparing meals.
Soft-closing hinges When replacing cabinets (or just the hardware), consider installing soft-closing hinges Appliance garages and slides on doors and drawers. These devices Architectural and design resource Houzz says eliminate slamming and caught fingers, reducthat appliance garages are popular kitchen addiing noise and injuries in the kitchen. tions, too. Set at countertop level, these cabinets allow people to keep small appliances plugged Extra lighting A kitchen should be a balance of form and in but tucked neatly behind closed doors. Kitchen remodels are a sizable investment, function. A combination of overhead lighting, decorative lighting and task lighting can illu- and renovations can be customized to make the kitchen more hospitable for all in residence. minate all areas of the space effectively.
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:Alevel 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 see inside walls, floors and ceilings to find the exact location of pipes, wires and joists. It also can be used to seek out the source of clogged drains or anywhere you desire sight into hardto-maneuver areas. In addition to these tools, brooms, shop-vacs, hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches and pliers can complete a DIYer’s basic toolbox. SH172751
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Home on the Rio Grande
Wednesday, March 21, 2018
How to hang photos and artwork with ease Personal touches turn a house into a home. Hanging pictures, whether they’re personal photographs or artwork, can really change the character of a room. Unfortunately, some people may not know the proper ways to display pictures on a wall. Design maven Martha Stewart advises that the first step is to gather all of the pictures that are in consideration for hanging. This will enable a person to see what is available and edit their selection based on the space available, theme or color scheme. Having the artwork there enables a person to move it around like a puzzle until the placement feels just right. Next, plan on hanging artwork at 57 inches on center, according to the renovation experts at Apartment Therapy. “On center” means the middle of the photograph or painting will always be at 57”, as this measurement represents the average human eye height. This height is regularly used as a standard in many galleries and museums. When the goal is to hang multiple pictures, treat the entire grouping as a single unit. This means creating the layout and finding the center of the middle piece of the grouping. To make picture grouping easier, use paper templates with arrows to indicate whether the artwork will be hung horizontally or vertically. These templates can then be easily taped to the wall and rearranged until the grouping is ideal. There are no hard and fast rules concerning frames, meaning they do not all have to match. But placing framed artwork side
by side can give a person a feel for whether the images and the frames work together in the space. Some people like to use frames of similar colors and sizes. Others want the eclectic mix-and-match appeal. It’s ultimately up to the homeowner. Measuring is key to hanging a picture correctly on the wall. Take into consideration the type of attachment, whether it’s D-rings, sawtooth hangers, wire, or other fasteners on the back. Measure from the top of the frame to the hanger. Measure the wall to achieve the 57” on center location, and then calculate where this falls within the height of the artwork and frame top. Adjust accordingly and mark. Then measure the distance from the frame top to the hanger location on the wall. Be sure to take the weight of the picture into consideration when selecting hanging hardware. Wall anchors may be needed if measurements determine a wall stud will not help secure the artwork — to keep the frame sturdy in the drywall. Home improvement resource Today’s Homeowner also suggests using self-adhesive rubber bumpers to the bottom corners on the back of the frame before hanging so that the picture will not damage the wall and will help it hang level. It can take a few attempts to hang pictures correctly, but with practice it should come with greater ease. The good news is there are new products constantly being evolved to make picture hanging easier, including those that enable removal and relocation of artwork without damaging walls. SH182695
Complete these home improvements over the weekend Home improvement projects ramp up when the weather warms up, as homeowners channel the rejuvenating feelings of spring and tackle their home to-do lists. Large-scale renovations can greatly affect a home, but smaller projects can yield impressive results and be completed over the course of a single weekend. If time is of the essence, these weekend or one-day projects may satisfy homeowners’ desires to fix up their homes. • Create an accent wall. Painting a focal wall in a home can create a serious impact. The bonus is it will not take as long or require as many materials as painting an entire room. Accent walls frequently feature a bold color, so decide on placement and tackle this project in less than a day. • Install stair runners. Dress up hardwood stairs with decorative carpet runners. Runners come in elongated pieces of carpeting or individual pieces that can be placed on each step. If carpeting doesn’t fit with the home’s design, painting individual stair treads also can create visual appeal. • Dress up the entryway. An entryway is a guest’s first impression of a home. Many entryways can use a minor overhaul, both inside and outside. Paint the front door a different color so it pops from the curb. Install a new mailbox or decorative house numbers. A new welcome mat
can change the look as well. Inside, consider laying a new floor. Resilient vinyl tiles come in many different patterns and can mimic the look of wood, travertine or marble. Installing a floor can take a day or two. • Install a new faucet. Instantly improve a kitchen or a bathroom with new fixtures. New faucets can provide aesthetic appeal and lowflow faucets can help conserve water. • Create a gallery on the staircase. Gather and arrange framed photos, artwork or wall accents so that they ascend the wall of a staircase. This creates a designer touch and can dress up an often barren area of wall space. • Install a fresh light fixture. Improve drab spaces with a little illumination. Better Homes & Gardens suggests replacing an existing fixture with something new and vibrant. If hanging a new fixture is not within one’s skill set, freestanding table or floor lamps also can cast a new glow on a space. • Add molding. Molding can add instant aesHome renovations do not need to take weeks thetic appeal to a room. Molding is appropriate one that can have immediate impact. Swap out near the floor, at the top of walls where they tired or outdated hardware for newer brushed or months. Many projects can be completed over meet the ceiling, or even mid-wall as a chair metals and more impactful shapes and designs. the course of a weekend. SH182701 rail. Some homeowners like to create framed molding on walls in formal living spaces. • Update kitchen or bathroom hardware. Replacing hardware is a fast and easy project, but
Transform bathrooms with technology Technology is infiltrating every room of the house. Many new home buyers are millennials, and this tech-savvy demographic covets technological innovations. A recent survey by Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate indicates 77 percent of Generation X and Y home buyers want their homes equipped with the tech capabilities they have grown accustomed to. Many of these involve smart innovations, including those that can transform one of the most private rooms in the house — the bathroom. Automated home theater rooms and Wi-Fienabled home security systems have become the norm, but what tech improvements are available to make the powder room more in touch with today’s digital lifestyle? According to the home improvement resource The Spruce, bathrooms have the most potential of any rooms to be im-
proved with technology. The following are just some of the bathroom gadgets and gizmos no one should resist before giving a try. • Automatic faucets: Infrared sensors have been helping keep public restrooms more hygienic for years. The same technology can be used in home bathrooms to curtail water waste and keep faucets and sinks from becoming infested with germs. • Musical shower: Instead of having to blast the volume on the portable speaker you use in the bathroom, a wireless speaker is built into some showerheads. This enables those who like to sing in the shower or listen to podcasts while washing up to enjoy this luxury effortlessly. Round out these innovations with automated lights, chilled medicine cabinets and aromatherapy, and your bathroom will indeed become a technological spa. SH182693