Your resource for buying, selling, and enjoying your home in the Inland Northwest.
NOVEMBER
2024
10 THINGS TO DO INSIDE TO PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR WINTER
Don’t wait for the first snowfall to scramble! Here are 10 ways to winterize the interior of your home:
1. Seal drafts. Drafty windows and doors are a significant source of heat loss. Use weatherstrip or caulk to seal any gaps and keep warm air inside.
2. Service your heating system. Prevent winter breakdowns by investing in a professional tune-up for your furnace or boiler.
3. Reverse your ceiling fan direction. Many ceiling fans have a switch to change the blade direction. In winter, set your fans to rotate clockwise to push warm air down from the ceiling.
4. Inspect and replace your HVAC system’s air filters. Clogged air filters restrict airflow and make your heating system work harder. Replace your air filters regularly for optimal efficiency.
5. Winterize your pantry. Create space for winter comfort food with staples like soups, stews and hot cocoa. Stock up on non-perishable items in case of bad weather.
6. Check safety devices. Test all your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and ensure they have fresh batteries.
7. Deep clean carpets and rugs. Before tracking in winter grime, thoroughly clean your carpets and rugs with a steam cleaner or carpet shampooer.
8. Gather winter supplies. Stock up on cozy blankets, throws and extra pillows for those chilly nights.
9. Winterize unused rooms. Reduce the heat in rooms that don’t often get used in winter to save energy.
10. Plan winter maintenance. Schedule any interior maintenance projects you’ve been putting off, like painting touchups or minor repairs. Winter is a great time to catch up on these tasks while staying warm and cozy indoors.
Consult the professionals in your area to ensure your home is warm and cozy this winter.
10 THINGS TO DO OUTSIDE TO PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR WINTER
As the leaves fall and a chill creeps into the air, it’s time to turn your attention outdoors and winterize your home. Here are 10 tasks you should tackle:
1. Clean the gutters. Clogged gutters can lead to water backup, which can damage your roof.
2. Trim tree branches. Remove any tree branches that are hanging over your home, especially weak ones, as heavy snow can cause them to snap.
3. Seal leaks and cracks. Inspect your siding, windows and doors for cracks or gaps. Use caulk to seal openings and prevent drafts.
4. Inspect the roof. Check your roof for missing shingles, loose flashing and signs of wear and tear.
5. Protect exposed plumbing. Frozen pipes can burst and cause major headaches (and expenses). Consider wrapping exposed pipes with insulation for added protection.
6. Disconnect and store hoses. Once the cold weather arrives, hoses left outside can crack or burst. Disconnect them from spigots, drain the remaining water and store them in a protected location.
7. Winterize your sprinkler system. Most sprinkler systems must be winterized to prevent the pipes from freezing. Locate your shut-off valve and drain the system.
8. Prepare your patio furniture. Move outdoor furniture to a protected area like a garage or shed, or cover it with weatherproof material.
9. Clear dead leaves and debris. Rake up leaves around your foundation and flower beds to promote good drainage and prevent unwanted pests.
10. Stock up on winter supplies. Create a stash of ice melt, snow removal tools and firewood before winter arrives to save you time and frustration when the snow flies.
If you complete these tasks, you’ll be well on your way to a cozy and troublefree winter season.
Cranberry and Thyme Mocktail
Ingredients Servings: 1
• 6 frozen cranberries
• 1/2 ounce cranberry juice
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup
• Club soda, to top it off
• 1 sprig fresh thyme
Directions
1. Place the cranberries in an elegant glass. Then, pour in the cranberry juice and simple syrup.
2. Place a spoon in the glass, curved side up. Very gently pour the club soda over the spoon (this creates a beautiful two-toned effect).
3. Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme.
This festive non-alcoholic drink is a must when raising a toast at Christmas or New Year. Cheers!
HOW TO KEEP YOUR GRANITE COUNTERTOP LOOKING NEW
Granite countertops are popular for kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, elegance and timeless appeal. However, it’s essential to implement proper care and maintenance. Here are some expert tips to help you keep your granite countertops looking brand new:
• Clean it regularly. Wipe down your granite countertop daily with a mild dish soap or commercial granite cleaner and warm water. Avoid harsh cleansers or abrasive scrubbers, as they can damage the sealant and scratch the surface.
• Wipe spills and blot stains immediately. Blot spills immediately with a clean cloth to prevent them from seeping into the stone. To help lift stubborn stains, create a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the affected area and let it sit overnight before rinsing.
• Use coasters, trivets and cutting boards. Granite is naturally heat-resistant. However, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause discolouration and cracking. Always use a cutting board when preparing food to prevent scratches on the surface.
• Seal it. Ideally, granite should be sealed every one to three years to maintain the stone’s integrity and prevent stains. Test the effectiveness of the sealant periodically by dripping water onto the surface. If the water beads, the sealant is still intact.
Ensure you have everything you need to keep your countertop looking great by visiting local shops.
Zero-waste home renovations: planning tips
Zero-waste home renovations aim to reduce waste, conserve resources and create healthier living environments. Here are a few tips for successfully planning your very own zero-waste renovation:
1. Educate yourself on sustainable building practices. Stay informed about emerging eco-friendly technologies. For example, advancements in solar panel efficiency and biodegradable materials are continuously evolving.
2.Reuse whenever possible. Depending on the project, consider opting for salvaged or reclaimed materials to divert waste from landfills and add character and uniqueness to your home.
3. Incorporate energy-efficient appliances and fixtures. Choose products with high energy-efficiency ratings and incorporate water-saving features such as ENERGY STAR® appliances and low-flow faucets and toilets.
4. Implement proper waste management. Focus on recycling, composting and donating reusable materials to divert waste from landfills. Plan ahead to ensure that construction debris is sorted and disposed of responsibly.
5.Collaborate with eco-conscious contractors and designers. Find a sustainable-focused building professional and communicate your zero-waste goals. Work together to identify innovative solutions that minimize waste generation to turn your home into a model of environmental responsibility.
What are you waiting for?
Cranberry Pistachio Fudge
Fudge is a sweet treat that’s synonymous with the holiday season. Will this Christmas-coloured version become your new classic?
Ingredients Servings: 20
• 1/2 cup pistachios, shelled
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 1 1/2 cups 35% heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Directions
1. In a small skillet, dry roast the pistachios. Once lightly browned, remove the pistachios from the heat and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, white sugar and heavy whipping cream. Bring to a boil.
3. Heat the mixture until it reaches 110 C (use a pastry thermometer). Remove the mixture from the heat immediately and allow to cool for 30 minutes.
4. Whip the mixture for three minutes with a hand mixer until smooth and no longer glossy.
5. Add the roasted pistachios and cranberries. Stir gently to incorporate.
6. Pour the mixture into a large rectangular or square baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours. Cut into 20 pieces and serve on a pretty plate.
DIY backsplash installation: upgrade your kitchen in a weekend
Dreaming of a fresh kitchen look? A backsplash can instantly transform your space without a significant renovation. Here are five simple DIY tips to get you started on a weekend backsplash installation:
1. Plan your layout. Measure your backsplash area and sketch a layout on paper. Consider tile size, pattern and how you’ll handle cuts around outlets and cabinets.
2. Prep the surface. Ensure the wall is clean, dry and smooth. Patch holes and cracks with spackle and sand for a level surface.
3. Mark and apply tile adhesive. Use a level to mark a straight line as your starting point. Apply tile adhe -
sive to a manageable section of the wall. Use a notched trowel to create ridges for optimal adhesion.
4. Set and space your tiles. Starting from your marked line, carefully press each tile into the adhesive, ensuring they’re level and evenly spaced. Use tile spacers for consistency.
5. Grout and seal. Apply grout once the adhesive dries completely (at least 12 hours). Use a damp sponge to remove excess grout and buff the tiles clean. Then, apply a sealer for extra protection after the grout cures (usually 24 to 48 hours).
With some planning and tools from your local hardware store, you can achieve a professional-looking backsplash that personalizes your kitchen.
Festive Spritz
This sparkling and colourful cocktail is the perfect way to get your party started with style.
INGREDIENTS
Servings: 1
• 2 ounces bitter liqueur (Aperol or Amermelade-style liqueur)
• 3 ounces sparkling wine
• Club soda, to top it off
• Ice cubes
• 1 orange wedge
• A few fresh mint leaves
DIRECTIONS
1. Pour the bitter liqueur and sparkling wine into a pretty glass. Top it up with club soda.
2. Add a few ice cubes and then garnish with the orange wedge and fresh mint.
THE DOS AND DON’TS OF WATERPROOFING YOUR BATHROOM
Bathroom leaks can be a major headache. Proper waterproofing protects your bathroom and the rest of your home from water damage. Here’s a quick guide to the dos and don’ts of keeping your bathroom watertight.
• Maintain and repair. Regularly inspect grout and sealant for cracks or damage and fix any issues quickly.
THE DOS
Here are some things you absolutely should do:
• Choose the right materials. For walls and floors, choose non-porous surfaces like tile. Cheap waterproofing products might fail, leading to costly repairs later.
• Seal it tight. Use a high-quality sealant around showers, tubs, sinks and drains.
• Create ventilation. Ensure proper ventilation with an exhaust fan and windows to prevent moisture build-up.
• Call a pro. Hire a professional for complex waterproofing projects, especially around plumbing fixtures.
THE DON’TS
Here are some things you should steer clear of doing:
• Forget the corners. Pay special attention to waterproofing corners and junctions where walls and floors meet.
• Rush the job. Allow proper drying time between coats of waterproofing materials.
• Ignore leaks. Even minor leaks can cause significant problems later. Address any leaks immediately.
• DIY everything. If you’re unsure about your skills, leave plumbing-related tasks to a licensed professional.
Visit your local hardware store for tools, materials and advice.
SHOULD YOU GET A HOME ENERGY AUDIT BEFORE SELLING YOUR HOME?
When you’re preparing to sell your home, your success will depend on how well you maximize its appeal and value. One often overlooked step, the home energy audit, can be highly beneficial to you. A home energy audit assesses how much energy your home consumes and suggests measures you can take to make your home more energy efficient. But is it worth doing before putting your house on the market? The answer is yes. Here’s why.
• Transparency and appeal. Providing potential buyers with a clear picture of your home’s energy performance can make your home more attractive, especially to those who prioritize energy efficiency and eco-friendly living.
• Uncover and address issues. An energy audit can uncover issues that aren’t apparent, such as poor insulation, drafty windows or
How to manage humidity in your basement
Excessive humidity in basements can lead to mould growth, musty odours and property damage. Prevention and remediation techniques are crucial for maintaining a healthy and comfortable environment. Here are some tips:
1. Ensure proper ventilation by installing exhaust fans or regularly opening windows to allow air circulation and reduce humidity levels.
2. Seal cracks and leaks in the foundation walls, floors, windows and doors to prevent moisture from seeping into the basement.
3. Use a dehumidifier to control humidity levels during hot, muggy weather or in areas with high water tables.
4. Add insulation to the basement walls and floors to prevent condensation and reduce moisture entering from the surrounding soil.
5. Keep gutters and downspouts clean and debris-free to ensure they drain away from the foundation.
6. Remove mould using a mixture of water and detergent. Hire a professional mould remediation service for extensive cases.
8. Improve drainage by installing a sump pump to redirect groundwater from the basement.
9. Monitor humidity levels with a hygrometer and take actions to maintain optimal levels (ideally between 30 and 50 per cent).
Contact a professional HVAC company or home renovation contractor for advice and help.
inefficient heating and cooling systems. Addressing these problems before listing your home boosts its market value and prevents any surprises during the buyer’s inspection.
• Faster selling time. Homes with better energy ratings often sell faster. Buyers are more likely to choose a home that promises lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint. An energy audit can also serve as a marketing tool, allowing you to highlight energy-efficient features in your listing.
Speak with a local real estate agent to help you set up a home energy audit for a quicker, more profitable sale. Taking this extra step can set your home apart in the competitive real estate market.
7. Waterproof the basement walls and floors with sealants or coatings.
