Fall Home

Make a dining room more elegant for entertaining

The kitchen may be the heart of a home, but when it comes to entertaining, a dining room — if one is present in a house — tends to be the prime gathering spot for meals.

Dining rooms may not be top on the list of spaces to renovate, as they tend to be used infrequently. But a dining room make over may still be a worthy endeavor. Here are some simple ways to make the dining room more elegant and functional.

• Clear out the clutter. The first step toward im proving a dining room eat ing area is to remove any extraneous items from the space. If the dining room table is not used very of ten, it likely has become a catch-all for other items,

such as bills, newspapers or kids’ homework. Rath er than using the dining space as a makeshift of

fice or homework station, invest in a rolling cart to store those papers and oth er items. Simply roll it into

a closet or another room when it’s time to host a party.

• Hang a statement light.

Few decorative items add as much drama and ambi ance to a dining space as a new overhead light. People hear chandelier and think a bejeweled or crystal de sign. But various chande lier styles can fit the aes thetic of a home. The light will be a focal point and instantly make the dining area more elegant. Install the light on a dimmer to adjust the illumination as needed to set the mood.

• Invest in new linens. Purchase coordinating ta ble linens that will be used for special occasions. A decorative table cloth or table runner coupled with cloth napkins and place mats helps to set the scene of the dinner party.

• Add a piece of artwork. Many modern homeown

ers have eschewed the Chi na cabinet that once was standard in dining rooms.

Rather than a bulky piece of furniture, a large piece of statement-making art work or framed photos over a more minimalistic buffet table or small service bar is preferable. Choose artwork that complements the col ors in the space.

• Include a centerpiece.

Centerpieces add sophis tication to the table and tie into the event. Floral arrangements, a bowl or basket of fruit, pine cones or greens from outdoors, or collectibles like shells in a tall canister can serve as centerpieces.

There are many simple ways to dress up dining spaces and make them more elegant.

Fireplace trends help create attractive, comfortable rooms

Fireplaces are useful features in a home. Fire places are sources of am bient heat and also add style to indoor spaces.

Fireplaces can com plement just about any interior style. Fireplac es can be traditional and burn wood or connect to a home’s natural gas supply for on-demand ambiance. What’s more, fireplaces may come in vented or ventless varieties, de pending on homeowners’ preferences and what is allowed by communi ty building codes. That means a chimney or flue may not be needed — ex panding the list of rooms where a fireplace can be installed.

Certain trends have emerged among fireplace fans in recent years.

Here’s a look at what’s getting consumers fired up about these home de cor elements.

• Minimalist style: Many fireplaces are de signed in neutral colors with minimal trim that

directs focus on the fire and not the appliance. When the fireplace is not in use, it blends in with

surroundings and will not compete for attention with other design elements.

• Convertible fireplaces: Homeowners can choose between open or sealed fireplaces. A convertible fireplace enables home owners to have the best features of these options. A convertible fireplace can be converted to wood from gas, or the opposite, in as little as 30 minutes.

• Nature-inspired ma terials: Natural stone continues to be a materi al of choice in fireplace surrounds. Light colors work well for a fireplace, and also fit with today’s lighter color interior de sign preferences. Natural stone also works perfectly with both contemporary and rustic decor.

• Vintage fireplaces:

Vintage continues to be a buzzword in 2022, and the choice to go vintage also applies to fireplace styles. A room decorated in vin tage elements can be com plemented with a vintage fireplace or one designed to look vintage.

• Integrate into wall decor: Fireplaces that are built right into a wall save space. One can have a television and a fireplace on the same wall. These types of fireplaces work well in modern home de signs. Other fireplaces may be built into book shelves or other wall fea tures.

Fireplaces can improve the appeal of a home. Various trends are pop ular this year, making fireplaces highly coveted features.

5 tips to keeping your home clean with your furry friends in mind

Summer is a great time for you and your pets to get outdoors and enjoy the sun shine and fresh air. How ever, with people and pets coming in and out of your home more often, you’ll find more dirt and mud tracked into your living space. Also, as the weather warms up, you may find that your fourlegged family members are shedding more, making it challenging to keep your fur niture and floors clean.

While it can seem difficult to keep your home clean, there are some simple ways to stay on top of it. Check out these five tips all pet owners should know to help main tain a clean home during the summer months.

1. Groom your pets

The best way to maintain a clean home with pets is to groom your furry friends regularly. Frequent brushing removes hair and fur that your dog or cat would nor mally shed onto your cloth ing, furniture and floors. You can pair this with weekly baths to wash out hair and dandruff, and keep dog fur off your couch and rug. As a bonus, grooming time can double as bonding time with your pets.

2. Invest in the right clean ing products

Not all pet cleaning prod

ucts are created equal, es pecially when it comes to removing pet stains and hair from your floor. You’ll want to look for products specif ically formulated to deal with pet odors and stains. The Bona Pet System - a col lection of floor cleaners and sustainably designed toolssimplifies cleaning pet hair and messes on hard-surface floors, including hardwood, stone, tile laminate and vi nyl.

The line’s multisurface floor cleaners for cats and dogs feature an odor guard technology that eliminates and neutralizes odors from urine, feces, sweaty fur and saliva, and discourages pets from remarking the previ ously soiled area.

3. Wipe down your pets af ter outdoor play

Playing and spending time outdoors keeps your pets active and happy, but your pet may track in dirt and mud. Wipe your dog’s paws, belly and tail down before letting them inside. Keep towels or pet-safe wipes near the door to make this a habit for you and your furry friends.

4. Use microfiber cloths

Microfiber cloths are in credibly effective at picking up pet hair. Because micro fiber is electrostatic, it easily

picks up pet fur and dander, saving you time and effort. To quickly clean fabrics like couches and clothing, slight ly dampen a microfiber cloth and wipe the clothing or fur niture item.

For your floors, look for microfiber mops. Bona’s Pet System includes a microfi ber mop and two reusable microfiber pads. Not only will you be able to clean your floors more effectively, but using machine washable and reusable microfiber cloths is also a sustainable way to clean your home.

5. Keep mealtime tidy

If your pets are messy eaters, you know how hard it can be to keep your home clean during meals. To keep water spills and kibble crumbs from getting all over your clean floors, buy a cou ple of silicone pet food pla cemats. Set food and water bowls on these mats so your messy eater can enjoy meal time while keeping spills and crumbs contained. Sili cone mats are easy to clean, so when they get dirty, sim ply rinse and dry.

Keeping a clean home as a pet owner doesn’t have to be complicated. Using these five tips, you’ll easily main tain a clean home you and your furry friends can enjoy this summer.

What to give new homeowners this holiday season

The real estate mar ket has been a wild ride in recent years. Sellers have cashed in on re cord-breaking profits, and buyers have had to com pete against many others — sometimes in bidding wars — for a limited num ber of properties. Once listed, homes are selling fast. As interest rates rise and inventory increas es, things are likely to change, though for some it did not come soon enough.

Individuals who were lucky enough to find a new home this year may discover they now have little money to outfit those homes. Shoppers with new homeowners on their holiday shopping lists may want to help those loved ones outfit their homes this season.

The following are some home-related gift ideas to get shoppers started.

• Video/smart doorbell: Although the smart door bell market began with only a handful of options, there’s now a bevy of manufacturers who make video and smart home doorbells. These doorbells serve the dual purpose of alerting homeowners to someone at the door, while providing surveillance of the comings and goings outside of the home. De pending on the product, a subscription may be need ed to access video history. Doorbells range from $50 to $200 and more depend ing on features and reso lution.

• Furniture gift card: There’s a good chance new homeowners will need

to furnish new rooms in a home, particularly if they’re coming from an apartment or a smaller place. Many people also like to update furnishings when they move into new places. A gift card to a

popular furniture store in the area will provide the head-start new homeown ers need to secure sofas, dining sets, lamps, rugs, and more.

• Household tool kit: What better way to pre

pare new homeowners for the do-it-yourself projects and household repairs than with a tool kit? Home improvement retailers often package common tools needed in carrying cases or sets, but shoppers can grab separate items they think will be used and group them together into one gift. Pliers, screwdrivers, wrenches, a level, and measuring tape are good starter tools.

• Customized doormat: Give that new home addi tional curb appeal with a doormat customized with a special message or the new homeowners’ names, such as Welcome to the Smith Home. Other cus tomizeable products in clude cutting boards and wall plaques.

• Programmable ther mostat: A programmable or learning thermostat will help new homeown ers save on their energy bills. Many thermostats now pair with smart home systems and phones and automatically adjust the temperature as need ed to reduce energy con sumption.

• Linens: A high thread count sheet set or plush Turkish cotton towels may not be something new homeowners think to get for themselves. But these luxurious gifts can make life at home more comfortable.

Moving into a new home is an exciting yet expensive endeavor. Care fully curated gifts can tap into what new homeown ers need the most.

com, more buyers searched for homes out of state in 2021 than the previous year.

If you’re a first-time home buyer or buying a home in a new city, you know what an exciting and overwhelming experience it can be. Know ing which home mainte nance projects are the most important can make things a lot easier.

“When making a house a home, many homeowners often focus on the interior. However, the exterior of the home is equally important,” says Brian Feldman, senior director of technical opera tions at TruGreen. “A green lawn is often the first place you will see as you make your way to the front door, and to keep your outdoor living space looking its best, you’ll need to know key sea sonal maintenance practices to achieve a lush, healthy

Whether you’re a firsttime homeowner who may not have had a yard before or are moving to a new home in a different climate, it can be tough to know how to care for your lawn. TruGreen, the nation’s leading lawn care provider, highlights six maintenance tasks home owners can follow to help learn the basics of lawn care and start creating a healthy outdoor living space.

1. Aeration and overseed ing

To ensure a healthy, thick er lawn, you’ll need to aerate your lawn. And if you have a cool season grass, we rec ommend you overseed at the same time. While this is an often-overlooked step in lawn care, it can help pre

what type of weeds are on

grows so you don’t under- or over-mow it.

5. Insect control

Many common lawn-dam aging insects can rapidly overtake your grass and oth er plants, so it’s best to be vig ilant when examining your outdoor living space. They can cause significant dam age, making your outdoor living space much harder to manage. New homeowners should educate themselves about their area’s various in sects so they can better care for and invest in their lawns. This knowledge can save you significant time and money in the long run.

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izing options, it can feel like a lot to take on. To ensure your outdoor living space gets the proper care, consult an expert to determine what best suits your lawn and soil conditions.

4. Mowing

6. Watering

As a rule of thumb, it’s time to give your lawn a drink when it starts to take on a dull hue. Most lawns need an inch of water per week. To achieve optimal re sults, you’ll want to perform long, infrequent watering one or two times per week. Remember to always be re spectful of water restrictions if they are present in your

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How to stay safe on DIY projects

Home improvement projects can be costly. De pending on the scope of the project, the choice of materials and the skill lev el involved to see the proj ect through to successful completion, homeowners could be on the hook for thousands of dollars or even more when renovat ing their homes.

One popular way home owners look to cut such costs is to do some, if not all, of the work them selves. Indeed, do-it-your selfers can save a consid erable amount of money.

Estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Ameri can Housing Survey indi cate that homeowners can save anywhere from 50 to 80 percent on DIY projects compared to what they might pay for comparable work to be performed by a contractor. However, the key there is “comparable.” Cost overruns could derail DIY savings rather quick ly if homeowners have little renovating skill or experience. But homeown ers’ wallets aren’t the only thing in jeopardy if a DIY project goes awry.

Renovation projects re

quire attention to detail, and that includes an em phasis on safety. Home owners who are injured on DIY projects may face costly medical bills, while projects that are completed without incident could lat er pose safety hazards that require work to be redone, which is both expensive and a threat to personal safety in the interim. DI Yers need not be discour

aged from taking projects on themselves, but they should heed these tips to stay safe when working on their homes.

• Make sure you choose the right ladder. DIYers may spend ample time shopping for drills and other electronic tools and gadgets that are fun to use. But ample time also must be afforded to the type of ladder you intend to use

on a project. Estimates from the West Bend Insur ance Company indicate that roughly 90,000 people visit the emergency room due to ladder accidents each year. Never use a broken ladder or an ag ing ladder that’s uneven. In addition, do not use a ladder that forces you to reach far away. If you’re leaning while using a lad der, the ladder is either

too short for your project or positioned too far away from the wall. The Nation al Home Security Alliance advises DIYers to place their ladder one foot from the wall for every four feet it rises above the ground. Test your ladders for their sturdiness prior to begin ning work so you aren’t tempted to use a subpar ladder.

• Be especially careful with power tools. Pow er tools can do a lot and they’re fun to use. But it’s important that DIYers do not let fun distract them from safety. The Power Tool Institute urges pow er tool users to wear per sonal protective equip ment, including eye and hearing protection and a dust mask, whenever using power tools. The PTI also advises users to make sure tools are pow ered down before plugging them in and to inspect the tool before using it. Inspections can confirm that all guards are in place and that tools are up to the task at hand. Much like it’s unsafe to overreach on a ladder, overreaching when using power tools

increase the risk for mis takes, accidents and inju ries.

• Avoid electrical work. Complicated electrical work is best left to the professionals. Estimates from the Electrical Safety Foundation Internation al indicate that electrical malfunctions cause more than 50,000 house fires each year. Such malfunc tions can occur for myr iad reasons, and a lack of experience working with electrical circuits and breakers could make homes vulnerable to mal functions and fires. It’s also worth noting that homeowners’ insurance policies may not cover damage caused by DIY electrical work. So at the very least homeowners should contact their in surance providers to de termine if any accidents or injuries caused by DIY electrical work would be covered by their policies.

DIY renovation projects can save homeowners a lot of money, but those savings aren’t worth com promising your safety and the safety of your loved ones.

3 reasons to consider solid hardwood floors

Today’s homeowners are more invested than ever in keeping their homes updat ed by elevating their style and taking on projects rang ing from bringing in fresh new paint colors to serious bathroom or kitchen reno vations.

Alongside these home updates is the trend of re thinking flooring and re turning to the foundational roots of hardwood.

“Hardwood floors are one of the best investments you can make in your home,” said Jen Meska, director of merchandising for LL Flooring. “Hardwood floors are a timeless home décor choice that brings warmth, luxury and comfort under foot and are made to last generations.”

Check out these three reasons why hardwood is an excellent choice for your next home renovation.

1. Where classic style meets value

With hundreds of years of history to its name, the natural beauty of hard wood never goes out of style. As the floor covering of choice for countless gen erations around the globe, hardwood became a popu lar and reliable choice for flooring in the U.S. during

the late 1800s, according to Wood Floor Business Mag azine.

While many homes to day feature vinyl and car pet, which rose in popular ity in the 1950s, you’ll still find older homes with the original hardwood floor ing. However, they might be hiding under a layer of dusty wall-to-wall carpet ing.

Investing in a hard wood floor also adds value to your home. According to Realtor.com, installing hardwood floors can boost

the value of your home by as much as 2.5%, and you can possibly see a 70-80% return on investment.

2. Lifelong beauty

There are several rea sons why hardwood contin ues to be a popular flooring

choice. Beyond their natu ral beauty and organic de sign, hardwood floors are strong, versatile and easy to clean.

Hardwood also enhanc es the aesthetic appeal of your home and is likely one of the first things someone will notice when they step inside. Not only does it make your home feel effort lessly elegant and welcom ing, but it also adds natural warmth to any space.

Another advantage is the wide variety of hard wood floors, so you can pick the color and design that best suits your cur rent style or set the tone for any interior decorat ing renovations. LL Floor ing’s hardwood collection features several species in different colors, finish es and plank widths. The

assortment includes oak, maple, mahogany, Brazil ian cherry, hickory and more to suit any taste. And you can choose from solid hardwood or engineered hardwood, depending on your flooring needs.

3. Built to last

With proper care, hard wood floors can last a life time. Due to its reliability and longevity, LL Flooring confidently offers a 100year transferable warran ty on its Bellawood hard wood line, ensuring that your flooring is covered for generations.

No matter what color and cut you choose, hard wood floors are excellent for your home renovation.

To learn more about hard wood floors and view a se lection of flooring options, visit LLFlooring.com.

How to cut costs on

Do you still have an avo cado green kitchen? Is your living room dank and dark?

Perhaps there is only one bathroom for a family of six? Answering yes to any of these questions could serve as the catalyst for a home renovation project.

Home improvement proj ects come in all shapes and sizes — some with huge budgets and others that are more cost-conscious. Re gardless of what homeown ers hope to achieve with their renovations, a com mon goal across any price point is a desire to save as much money as possible.

Home renovations can be expensive, but there are ways to cut costs.

• Assess the merit of the project. Remodeling mag azine annually publishes

a “Cost vs. Value Report” that lists the average cost and return on investment homeowners can expect of various types of projects. If you’re planning to sell your home soon, it may be best to focus on repairs and renovations that will gen erate the most substantial ROI.

• Hire a contractor. Even avid do-it-yourselfers can sometimes benefit from a contractor’s expertise, particularly for complex tasks. Don’t waste money by trying tough jobs your self; rely on an experienced contractor who can get sup plies for less money and will do the job right the first time. Compare bids from several different con tractors and figure out the best value.

• Refurbish existing features. Rather than a complete gut and rebuild, figure out where you can revitalize existing fixtures and more. For example, refinishing existing cabi

nets can save you up to 50 percent compared with the cost of new cabinetry, ac cording to Angi (formerly Angie’s List), a cost com parison and business re view resource.

• Choose midgrade ma terials. Certain materials may be all the rage but they come with a higher price tag. Angi reports that gran ite counters could be $60 to $100 per square foot. How ever, a composite or lami nate that looks like gran ite and wears well may be $10 to 40 per square foot. Figure out where you can choose middle-of-the-road materials for maximum value.

• Avoid peak seasons. You’ll pay more to install a deck or a pool right before the outdoor entertaining season. There also may be a premium to get work done right before a major holiday. Therefore, consult the calendar to find an off time for a renovation and book it then to save.

• Do some prep work. You might be able to save by doing some of the demoli tion and preparatory work yourself. For example, you can tear up old carpeting before the installation of new tile floors. Perhaps you can mend and patch up walls before a paint job.

• Buy a display item. For mer showroom kitchens and baths often are sourced at a fraction of their rec ommended retail prices, according to Real Homes, a home remodel guide based in the United Kingdom. Re tailers often update their displays and you may score existing showroom items at a discount.

Renovations can be expensive, but there are many different ways to cut costs.

The different ways to repair a driveway

Asphalt driveways do not last forever. Over time, weather and general usage can degrade the drive way surface, resulting in cracks, pitting and more. Ultraviolet rays, salt and automotive fluids also can affect the appearance and functionality of a drive way. An unsightly drive way can adversely affect curb appeal and resale po tential.

Homeowners have to consider various factors when it comes to repair ing driveways. They may have the option of getting the driveway resurfaced, resealed or repaved, and each project is unique.

Resurfacing

According to the home improvement price com parison site Kompare It, resurfacing is simpler and faster than installing a new asphalt driveway. With re surfacing, any cracks are filled in to create an even base. Then a new layer of asphalt is applied over the existing one. That new layer can range in thick ness from 1.5 to 3 inches. A heavy rolling machine will then smooth and flat ten the layers together. If the driveway has minor pitting or cracking, then re surfacing can be a cost-ef

fective strategy, as it may be a $3,000 to $6,000 job as opposed to $5,000 to $10,000 with repaving.

Resealing

Resealing a driveway, also called sealcoating, is another repair strategy. HGTV says resealing can be a do-it-yourself project. Resealing helps the drive way last longer. The driveway needs to be clean and dry, with holes and cracks filled pri or to sealcoating. Start at the far edge of the drive way and seal that area by “cutting-in” by hand for a neat edge. Afterward the rest of the driveway can be sealed using a squeegee or broom. This project can be completed within two or three days if no precipita tion is forecast.

Repaving

A project best left to pro fessionals, repaving typi cally involves the removal of an existing driveway and the installation of a new one. The sub-grade layer is essential in the process for a smooth look. Contractors also will as sess soil and grading when doing work. The construc tion blog Main Infrastruc ture says the new asphalt driveway can vary in thickness between two and six inches, depending on budget and need. The con tractor also can advise if full-depth asphalt applica tion or an aggregate base is practical.

Assessing the condi tion of driveway can give homeowners a better idea about which type of repair project best suits their property.

Signs it is time to overhaul your kitchen

Remodeling a kitchen adds value to a home. Re modeling Magazine’s “Cost vs. Value Report” indicates mid-range kitchen remod els cost about $66,000, and homeowners can expect to recover about 60 to 80 per cent of that cost at resale.

Homeowners may won der if remodeling their kitchens is worth the in vestment. But homeowners should not just consider cost, but also the current conditions of their kitch ens when deciding if a ren ovation project is the right move to make. These signs indicate it may be time to renovate a kitchen.

• Breakers are triggered: If the lights go dark from a tripped circuit breaker every time you try to mi crowave and run the toast

er oven at the same time, your wiring is likely not up to the task of handling the workload and could be out of date. A kitchen remod el will assess wiring load needs and an electric over haul may be necessary.

• Lack of storage: One of the biggest hassles homeowners encounter in their kitchens is a lack of

storage space. If making a meal involves a Jenga-like stacking and rearranging of kitchen tools, or if an avalanche occurs whenev er you search for an item, you might need more stor age. A carefully planned redesign can achieve this, even in a smaller kitchen.

• Outdated appliances: Even if your appliances

are not avocado green or mustard yellow relics of the 1970s, they might still need to be replaced. Ac cording to CRD Design, appliances are only expect ed to last around 10 to 15 years. If appliances have become unsafe or energy hogs, it could be time for a remodel.

• Family is expanding

(or shrinking): Kitchens often are the heart of a home. They need to meet the needs of the family that resides in that home. A remodel can add space as needed. On the flip side, when a couple becomes empty nesters, kitchens can be redesigned and downsized to reflect their new needs and desires, such as the addition of a wine chiller or espresso station.

• Poor lighting: Task lighting is essential in a kitchen, but older homes may not be equipped with lighting where it’s most needed. A careful ly designed remodel can improve lighting with under-cabinet lights, pen dants, overhead lighting, and even natural light to

make the space attractive and more functional.

• Frequent run-ins: The notion that you can have too many cooks in the kitchen refers to having too many people trying to pitch in or offer their opin ions. However, it also can apply to when too many people are gathering in a small space. Redesigning a kitchen can improve the efficiency of a space and make the room feel larger.

• Aesthetic appeal: Many kitchen remodels have been inspired by un sightly kitchens. Cosmetic changes can lead to big im provements.

Kitchen renovations can add instant appeal and help address issues that tend to plague outdated rooms.

Spring and summer are perhaps the busiest times of year for gardeners. How ever, fall also is a prime time to tend to gardens.

The tree and bare root retailer Bower & Branch advises that soil tempera tures in many regions of the country may still be warm enough to encourage root growth well into the start of winter. Further more, fall is often the ideal time to plant, fertilize and keep a garden going or to get a head start on next year’s bounty.

Here are some tips to make the most of the fall gardening season.

• Think about fall annu als and bulb planting. Near the end of September, start planting cool-weather-lov ing pansies and violas for pops of color as summer flowers fade. Also, it’s a good idea to stock up on bulbs that will bloom in the months to come before they sell out in stores. Wait un til the temperatures really cool down before planting them in desired spots for spring sprouts.

• Sow salad seeds. Let tuce, spinach, radishes, and arugula tolerate cooler temperatures. Try new and interesting lettuce variet ies and enjoy salads well into the fall season.

• Take inventory of the sun. Positioning a garden carefully means maxi mizing hours of sunlight, which begin to dwindle in the fall. Experts say gar

dens grow best in sunny locations that receive six hours of direct sunlight each day. This is where container gardens can be helpful, as they allow gar deners to move plants into spots that will get ample sunlight.

• Fill in landscaping gaps. Some fall plants can add color around the land scape and brighten up homes to add curb appeal. In addition to pansies and violas, asters, kale and chrysanthemums are fall blooms. Keep in mind that mums can come back year after year. So take them out of those flower pots and get them into the ground. They can be enjoyed next year as well, sprouting in ear ly spring and developing leaves and buds through

late summer.

• Clean up unwanted growth. Fall is an ideal time to cut back spent veg

planting and maintenance

etable plants and get rid of errant weeds. Rather than bagging leaves, mow them with a grass catcher and then add the mix to a vegetable garden as an ex cellent soil insulator. The nitrogen and carbon will fertilize the soil, enhancing growing possibilities and limiting weed growth.

• Propagate plants in the fall. As temperatures gradually begin to cool, start taking cuttings from perennials, gathering seed pods from azaleas and rho dodendrons and dividing hardwood cuttings, says the resource Gardening Know How. Consult with a garden center or horticul turist on the proper ways to propagate stems using rooting hormone and other techniques.

• Continue to water

plants. Water is essential in the fall and winter as roots can still be growing. Gradually reduce water ing duration as plants go dormant.

Fall planting and maintenance can extend gardening season and improve the chances of growing a healthy spring garden.

Budget-friendly dining room renovation ideas

If the kitchen is the heart of the home, then the dining room may be akin to one of its arteries. The mood cre ated in the kitchen spreads to the dining space where family and friends gather to eat and enjoy one another’s company.

Dining rooms can get lost in the home renovation shuf fle, as many homeowners tend to focus on renovating kitchens and bathrooms in stead. Homeowners do not have to invest a lot of money in renovations to give their dining spaces awe-inspiring makeovers. Here’s how to do so on a budget.

• Lighten and brighten. Dining rooms were once very formal spaces. Dark woods, large pieces of fur niture, over-the-top chande liers, and other details could be found in many homes.

But now that houses are being built with open floor plans, dining rooms can blend with other spaces, which have moved to light er colored walls, flooring and furniture. A fresh coat

of vibrant paint can work wonders and it doesn’t cost much. If you can’t remove a floor, cover it with a brightly colored area rug.

• Switch things up with slipcovers. Slipcovers can

be changed each season to dramatically alter the look of a dining room for little investment. Slip covers also protect chairs and can be easily laundered after spills.

• Add floating shelving.

Floating shelves provide much-needed storage or dis play space without the need to invest in another piece of furniture. Depending on the shelving, they can work in modern design schemes or even farmhouse dining spaces.

• Clear out the clutter. It might be time to say “so long” to that large curio cab inet and the knickknacks within it. Curio and china cabinets used to be de ri gueur, but plenty of people now prefer more open and airy dining rooms. For those who want to keep the cabi net, try decluttering inside to only include the very best display pieces and see if the cabinet can be refinished with paint or a lightly col ored stain.

• Improve lighting. Make the chandelier the state

ment piece of the space. Go for a bold color or an inno vative design. Then add accessories throughout the space that coordinate with the chandelier.

• Add bench seating. Those who need addition al seating may not have to get entirely new furniture. Swap out some chairs for benches, which can fit a cou ple more guests than chairs.

• Create depth with color. HGTV says that using vari ous shades of the same color in a space can add depth. Co ordinate drapes, walls, seat fabrics, and accessories for a cohesive design.

Renovating a dining room doesn’t require a large in vestment of time and mon ey. A few simple steps can give dining spaces a whole new feel without busting homeowners’ budgets.

The dos and don’ts of wood floor installation

Jaw-dropping features can sell a home in a heart beat. A penthouse apart ment with floor-to-ceiling windows and a panoram ic view of a city skyline likely won’t prove a hard sell, nor will a home with an infinity pool overlook ing a landscape of rolling hills. As awe-inspiring as such features can be, some more subtle compo nents, such as authentic hardwood floors, also can do much to make a home more appealing to pro spective buyers.

Hardwood flooring is a sought-after commodity. Data from the National Association of Realtors in dicates that 54 percent of home buyers are willing to pay more for hardwood floors. In fact, NAR figures indicate that 28 percent of buyers between the ages of 35 and 54 consid er hardwood floors “very important” when looking for a home. Homeowners who are considering sell ing their homes, or those who simply want to up grade their existing floor ing, may want to consider installing hardwood floor ing. Though it’s a project best left to professionals, hardwood flooring can be installed by skilled DI Yers. In such instances, homeowners may want to keep these dos and don’ts in mind.

DO hire a profession al if you have limited or no DIY flooring experi ence. Hardwood flooring installation is not gener ally a project for novice DIYers. Hardwood floor ing projects may present some common challeng es, but no two homes are the same. So unless they have prior experience in stalling floors in multiple

rooms or homes, home owners may save them selves time, trouble and a significant amount of money hiring a profes sional to do the job.

DON’T ignore the sub floor. New hardwoods won’t erase the problem of subfloors in poor con dition. According to the home renovation experts at BobVila.com, squeaky floors could be an indica tion that the subfloor has begun to warp or twist. Sinking floors are another indicator of deteriorat ing subfloors. Subfloors should be somewhat level before new hardwoods are installed, so DIYers should inspect and address sub floor issues before install ing new flooring.

DO expose wood floor ing to the elements in your home prior to in stallation. The home improvement resource BuildDirect recommends acclimating hardwoods to the space where they will be installed. Skipping this important step could result in gaps during the winter and cupping over the summer. To acclimate hardwoods, open the box es and spread them out for about a week while run

ning the air conditioner or heater at normal lev els. When storing hard woods prior to installa tion, avoid keeping them in potentially moist areas like a basement.

DON’T skimp on tools. A DIY hardwood flooring installation might be less expensive than hiring a professional, but home owners should resist any temptation to increase those savings further by purchasing less costly tools or fewer tools than is necessary to complete the job. BuildDirect notes that DIYers will need at least a miter saw, table saw, cleat-nailer or sta pler, finish nailer, com pressor, jamb saw, chalk line, nail set, and tape measurer when install ing hardwood floors. Pur chase all necessary tools and read product reviews to ensure each tool is up to the task.

Wood floors can be awe-inspiring. Some homeowners can install such flooring on their own, and the project can be much easier if they learn as much about in stallation as possible pri

3 simple ways to extend your living space outdoors with a pergola

Do dreams of lazy days soaking up the sun have you looking for ways to extend your living space outdoors? You’re not alone. According to a re cent Qualified Remodel er magazine survey on the latest outdoor living trends, creating the ulti mate backyard now has as much priority with homeowners as kitchens, bathrooms and other inte rior remodeling projects. The appeal of a backyard that can accommodate different activities, from outdoor dining to an af ternoon snooze, makes sense as many homeown ers look to their yards to provide more usable liv ing space.

If you’re like surveyed respondents and ready to maximize your proper ty’s potential with an up dated backyard, the pro cess may seem daunting. Fortunately, a little inspi ration and a new pergola make it easy to extend your living space out doors. Here are three sim ple ways to incorporate a pergola into your back yard layout and bring the ultimate outdoor space from concept to reality.

Frame an open-air workspace

Between remote work, homework sessions and impromptu art projects, table space in the home may be a commodity.

Skip the daily scuffle for space. Consider using a pergola to frame a flexi ble open-air workspace that’s separate from the house. Pergolas typically sport uncovered rafters for slight but noticeable shade - much like sitting under a tree. This can help reduce the sun’s glare on a computer screen while still allowing natural light and a warm breeze to flow through the work space. You can increase the amount of shade these open-air structures cast by draping outdoor curtains from the rafters.

Finish setting the scene for heads-down concen tration with comfortable outdoor furniture, potted plants and lighting ac cessories. Don’t forget to provide access to an out let to keep computers and phones fully charged.

Cook up a designated zone for dining al fresco

If your home’s layout is limiting the number of guests you can entertain, consider bringing activ ities that are tradition ally done indoors to the

backyard. For example, a pergola can help define a designated zone for cook ing and dining, complete with a full-size outdoor kitchen or bar. And with the right building mate rials, there’s no need to worry about what effects these types of activities might have on your back yard structure.

“Fortress® Pergolas are built with sleek struc tural steel components that are dual layer pro tected against fire, which means that stray sparks or hot coals from the bar becue won’t damage the

structure,” said Kather ine Haverkamp, a senior product manager at For tress Building Products.

“The steel components also sidestep issues as sociated with moisture absorption, one of the most common reasons a standard wood pergola will deteriorate. Because they’re incredibly dura ble, steel pergolas make it possible for homeowners to create a truly custom outdoor room that’s built to last.”

Create a relaxing backyard getaway

Designing spaces that promote health and well-being are more pop ular than ever, which makes sense given the events of the last few years. If it’s difficult to find time for yourself within the walls of your home, use a pergola to create a backyard get away that invites rest. Typically, freestanding pergolas can be assem bled across any type of outdoor surface, so con sider installing it in a secluded corner of your property for moments of meditation. Because they can be configured in dif ferent ways to accommo date your design vision, there’s no need to disturb your garden or landscap ing during the install process. Create a peaceful sanctuary next to a pool

or water feature to en joy the sound of moving water during an at-home yoga practice - or a nap. Complete your restor ative backyard getaway with outdoor lighting for ambience on a summer night.

Ready to get started?

If you’re feeling in spired to extend your living space outdoors to enjoy the lazy days of summer, take note of the ways a pergola can improve the usabil ity of your home. The freestanding structure can become a designat ed space for heads-down concentration, outdoor dining and relaxationtake your pick. Whatever its function, it will surely add one-of-a-kind person ality to your home’s out door living space.

The surprisingly powerful cleaning tool that the pros rely on

Do you feel like you’re constantly cleaning and it’s never enough to stay on top of all the dirt, grime and germs? Do you wonder how professional cleaners get everything so sparkling and fresh in such little time? The trick is to work smarter, not harder, and one of their best-kept secrets is utiliz ing the natural cleaning power of steam.

Steam is a surpris ingly powerful cleaning tool, with the ability to break down tough grime and disinfect virtually any surface. Plus, water is pure and natural, so you don’t have to worry about harsh cleaners with chemicals that may be bad for you and the envi ronment. Here are the top reasons why many people use their steam cleaner as much as (or more than) their vacuum once they realize everything it can accomplish:

1. Steam kills bacteria and viruses

The pandemic caused people to become acute ly aware of how easily germs can spread and the desire grew to regu larly disinfect commonly touched surfaces. Steam is scientifically proven to kill bacteria and virus es because they cannot survive the heat. This allows you to sanitize, disinfect and clean in one simple step. For example, the Dupray NEAT Steam Cleaner easily removes dirt, grease and stains while killing 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, patho gens, bedbugs, mold and other undesirables.

2. Steam works almost anywhere

Steam can clean any type of flooring, includ ing tile and grout lines, but it can be helpful in many more ways as well. It can tackle tough messes

like burned-on grease in your oven or grill, heavy stains in furniture and upholstery, and grime in showers or bathtubs. It’s also great for cleaning your vehicle’s interior. It can sanitize your infant’s crib and your fitness equipment. Steam is also great on softer surfaces, such as sanitizing mat tresses, children’s toys and pet furniture, espe cially those items that can’t be put in the wash

ing machine. Not to men tion, you can use steam to get into all the nooks and crannies that are other wise hard to reach.

3. Steam cleaning im proves air quality Americans spend ap proximately 90% of their time indoors, where the concentrations of some pollutants are often up to five times higher than typical outdoor concen trations, according to the U.S. Environmental Pro

tection Agency. Because steam cleaning is all nat ural, it’s a great way to help improve indoor air quality. Steam cleaning helps eliminate dust, bed bugs, pet dander, pol len, allergens, mold and more. Cleaner air means a healthier home so ev eryone can breathe better, day and night.

4. Steam eliminates most other cleaning sup plies

How many bottles of

cleaner do you have in your home and how much money have you spent on them? By investing in a steam cleaner you elimi nate the need for many of those bottles, not to men tion their toxins, helping you save money and green your home. Steam clean ing is environmentally friendly so you can feel proud to have a healthier, eco-smart home.

5. Steam saves time and is so satisfying

Steam cleans fast and dries even faster, which means less time scrubbing. This is why professionals use it in commercial and hospital ity settings. The Dupray

NEAT Steam Cleaner comes with 17 premium accessories so you can

clean almost anything, from vast surfaces to tiny nooks and crannies.

Learn more at Dupray. com. Plus, cleaning with steam can turn a mun dane cleaning routine into a surprisingly sat isfying experience when you quickly see the be fore-and-after results.

3 easy ways to enjoy living color in your outdoor space this fall

As temperatures drop and seasons turn, that doesn’t mean you have to give up on the vivid blooms you love so much in your yard. Strategi cally adding seasonal plants that can withstand cooler weather is a great way to bring color and dimension to outdoor spaces, enhancing your curb appeal into the au tumn months.

To educate and inspire, the plant and gardening ex perts at Ball Horticultural Company share simple tips, top trends and standout plants that are ideal for fall:

Pollinator plants in traditional autumn hues

There’s no easier way to add autumn atmosphere to your entryway, walkways and flower boxes than with the warm hues of rich yel

lows and sunny oranges. Blooms in these colors con vey happiness and warmth, making them beautifully eye-catching. Some plants in these tones are especially attractive to bees and butter flies, helping create pollina tor-friendly spaces.

For example, award-win ning Echinacea Artisan Yel low Ombre is a native-type prairie plant that attracts songbirds, bees and butter flies throughout fall, and into winter. It’s drought tol erant and low maintenance, making it a no-brainer for colorful autumn gardens. Another great option as the weather cools is Achillea Milly Rock Yellow Terra cotta. This perennial has a breathtaking golden-orange color that is perfect for fall because it is frost tolerant, plus it attracts pollinators

while resisting hungry rab bits and deer.

Moody blues are trending for fall

While yellow and orange are quintessential fall col ors, you can add an on-trend

element to your outdoor space with Spreading Pansy Cool Wave Blue. The stun ning dark, moody blue hue plays nicely when combined with a jewel-toned autumn palette. It is also a standout choice by itself, reflecting the cooler weather, crisp air

and clear night skies associ ated with the fall months. The vibrant shade of sol id blue is beautiful in plant ers and hanging baskets, as well as in landscaping and window boxes. This sun-lov ing variety is a spreading pansy, meaning it can serve as great groundcover, as well. You can enjoy this pan sy in fall, and with superior overwintering hardiness, it’s the earliest pansy to re turn in the spring.

Create dimension through floral shapes

Color is one important aspect of landscape design, but to really elevate your outdoor appeal, consider dimension as well. Creating variables in plants through shape and texture adds vi sual interest, bringing new

depth to a space. To cre ate this, mix florals with greenery and don’t be afraid of nontraditional flower shapes.

The perfect example is Ce losia, which features blooms in unique shapes such as plumes, spikes or wavy crests. You can create any outdoor aesthetic you desire with varieties available in yellow, orange, red and dark purple. Each adds texture and dimension, pairing well with mums and other popu lar autumn florals.

Whether it’s containers, window boxes or several strategic places in your landscaping, you can update your home for the fall season and boost your curb appeal with fall flowers. A dash of color and texture will help your home be a standout on the block.

Upgrade

Bathrooms can benefit from updates that improve their form and function.

While styles and color patterns may inspire bath room renovations, im provements to safety also should be considered.

Bathrooms can be one of the most dangerous rooms in a house. Bath and show er areas account for about two-thirds of accidental injuries in these spaces. Many other injuries in volve the toilet. In 2008, a thorough investigation of bathroom dangers conduct ed by the Centers for Dis ease Control and Preven tion found that mishaps near the bathtub, shower, toilet, and sink caused an estimated 234,094 nonfa tal injuries in the United States among people aged 15 years and older.

Seniors are particularly vulnerable in the bathroom due to reduced mobility and flexibility, visual im pairment and other factors. However, some key mod ifications can make bath rooms much safer for aging populations.

• Raised toilet seat: In stall an ADA-compliant

raised toilet seat. Standard toilet seats are roughly 15 inches high, but elevated seats can raise the bowl an additional two to four inches. Another option is to invest in risers that can be attached to an existing toilet.

• Grab bars: Seniors may use towel holders as grab

bars, which don’t have stability and can dislodge from the wall. Install se cured side grip bars by the toilet and inside the show

safety features

Lower the water tempera ture setting on the hot wa ter heater. StaySafe.org rec ommends 120 F.

• Faucets: Change fau cet handles to paddle-style handles rather than knobs. Knobs can be challenging to grip for those with ar thritis in their hands. Also, handles that are easier for seniors to use can reduce the risk of the elderly los ing their balance as they attempt to gain leverage to turn the water on and off.

• Nonslip mats: Nonslip mats or tape strips can be used in showers and tub bottoms, as well as outside of the shower to reduce the risk of slips and falls. Rugs should have rubberized, slip-resistant backing.

transfer seats: Benches and transfer seats make it easi er getting in and out of the shower. Also, sitting while showering reduces the risk of becoming light-headed or losing balance.

• Walk-in tubs/showers: Minimizing the threshold to the shower or bathtub is an important safety fea ture. Some manufacturers make walk-in tubs with doors that secure and make watertight seals. Showers that don’t have a lip or tub to scale also are better for seniors.

er to make maneuvering easier.

• Water temperature: Se niors may be vulnerable to hot water temperatures.

• Rounded corners: Choose counters and fix tures with rounded cor ners. Should a senior fall against something, the rounded corner may pre vent serious injury.

• Shower benches and

• Lighting: Eyesight weakens over time, so im prove lighting with combi nations of overhead light ing and softer side lighting. Night lights or soft-glow ing toilet lights can make it easier to get around the bathroom in the middle of the night.

These are just some im provements that can create safer bathroom environ ments for seniors.

10 tips on how to turn an overgrown field into a beautiful yard

There it is - a big, messy, overgrown field of weeds, grass, tree stumps, rocks and who knows what else, just begging for some lov ing. It’s an eyesore that you (and

neighbors) have been wanting to tack le for a long time, but you weren’t sure exactly how to go about it.

Before you run down to the hardware store to buy a weed whip or call the local fire department to do a pre scribed burn, the yardcare experts at Toro offer 10 tips on how to turn an over grown field into a beautiful stretch of yard for years of enjoyment.

* Start with a game plan - Is the goal to extend the green turf area of your ex isting lawn into this field area? Do you want to create an area where your kids and the kids in the neigh borhood could play soccer or kickball? Or how about turning this spot into an area where your horses, llamas, goats or other live stock could graze. Knowing what you want to do with your new green space will help you determine how much effort you want to put into it.

* Consider the previous use of the field - Was your overgrown field previously used as pasture for cows or horses? If so, large ani mals can cause quite a bit

of soil compaction. Do you have gopher holes every where? That means your land will be quite lumpy after you mow it down. Un derstanding how your field was used before will help determine soil conditions and what you’ll be work ing with after you clear the weeds away.

* Walk the field - Be fore you run a lawn mow er through a field of tall weeds, make sure you walk it to identify any potential hazards that may not be readily visible. Look for rocks, stumps and logs,

equipment parts and junk, potholes, nests and more. Bring some utility flags to mark any spots that you’ll need to avoid while you’re mowing the field.

* Remove rocks, branch es and junk - Grab your chainsaw, throw in a shov el, and pull up the pick-up truck and trailer. It’s time to remove rocks, branch es and any junk you find in your field. There also may be things you want to keep - maybe tree sap lings, a patch of wild grow ing raspberries or a brush pile along the edge of some

woods that would make for a nice habitat. If there may be replanting, bring some large 5-gallon buckets to save plants.

* Mow efficiently - To effi ciently mow an overgrown field, consider mowing it at least twice, initially. In your first pass, raise the blades on your Toro Titan zero-turn mower to their highest level. This will allow you to avoid hitting any objects such as small boulders or large mounds of dirt that you may have missed in your walk through as your zero-turn

mower slices through the weeds. If your zero-turn mower is equipped with a Toro bagging system, you can quickly scoop up cuttings and add them to your compost. Then, lower the blade level and go back through it again to achieve a finer cut.

* Half swath - For truly imposing fields, you may want to mow a half swath at a time. Simply make a pass of untouched long weeds using only half the width of the mowing deck with the other half passing previously cut grass. This will ensure your mower blade has the power and momentum to cut through the tough stuff and ensure the grass gets cut down to the proper size.

* Get ready for a bumpy ride - If your overgrown field hasn’t been touched for years, get ready for a bumpy ride due to pot holes, dirt clumps, gopher holes, roots, decaying branches, ant hills ... you name it, that is, unless you have a Toro zero-turn mow er with MyRIDE suspen sion system, an exclusive technology that cushions the ride for the mower re gardless of variations in terrain.

* Leveling the field - Af ter you’ve cleared your field of the long weeds, you’ll want to consider leveling

your new green space. This may mean bringing in soil to fill in holes and renting a mini-track loader from your nearest landscape or rental equipment dealer to knock down large bumps of dirt and remove larger boulders.

* You’ve got options - By clearing your field of the long weeds, scrub brush and tree saplings, you’ve created more options for your yard. Do you want to remove all weeds, or do you want to overseed with grasses and native, lowgrowth ground covers such as clover? Maybe you’d like to turn a portion of this new green space into a large garden - for which you may want to till that area.

* Regular mowing - Once you’ve done the hard part, you can go as fast or as slow as you want in terms of reclaiming that green space and turning it into your new field of dreams. If you plan to transform the field over time, consid er aerating the soil in the fall and begin the process of overseeding (versus sod ding). The key is regular mowing to prevent weeds from growing back and re claiming your new greens pace.

For more tips about how to maintain your yard, vis it Yardcare.com.

First Area Federal Credit Union

BONNIE K. FISHER, MANAGER

How features can bring simplicity, serenity to the bath

During stressful times, the home can become a sanctuary. From soothing color palettes that evoke a sense of calm to high-tech features that make daily tasks feel a bit less stren uous, design choices are crucial in curating serene spaces. This is especially true in the bathroom - the room where people escape to cleanse and recharge.

Refined elegance

Elegant design does not require over-the-top sty listic features. Instead, focus on elements that are beautifully understated. Create a refined aesthetic that combines clean lines and curves with luxurious materials and finishes to achieve an unassuming, timeless space. To bring this style to the bathroom, a space that should feel and look fresh, make de liberate design choices by removing features that distract from the beauty of the space. There is power in simplicity; an alluring force that can elevate any room.

Serene sanctuary

The bathroom is a place of livable serenity with in the home. Regardless of the size of the space, it is important to create the feeling of openness, which will truly transform it into “the spot” to come back to and to relax in after a long

day. Curated style choices, such as a light color pal ette, soft-textured accent pieces like plush towels and wood features or other organic elements, create the feeling of airiness akin to the serene design found in spas.

Water plays a key role in the bathroom, and fixtures that are both purposeful and elegant should serve as the pathway to bring this natural element to life in the room.

Showcase water as a de sign element by selecting faucets and fixtures that bring the design and de tails of the space together in a harmonious fashion. Create a sanctuary that perfectly captures the in

trigue of minimalism. In corporate the smooth con tours and sleek aesthetic of the Allaria™ Bath Collec tion by Brizo®, offering ef fortless beauty and unpar alleled craftsmanship. The collection transforms sim ple forms into functional works of art. By combining curved geometric shapes with striking split finishes, the fixtures achieve a look of soft modernism.

Sophisticated customization

Style is highly person al, and the functional components found in the bathroom are no different. Further tailor a space by selecting specific, exclu

sive finishes. The Allar ia™ Bath Collection de buts three irresistible split finishes, including Bril liance® Black Onyx/Matte Black, Polished Chrome/ Clear and Brilliance® Luxe Gold®/Clear, to bring further distinction to de sign and unique person alization. The collection provides an added layer of customization through the pairing of finishes with the new clear handles, ulti mately creating a smooth look.

Another way to achieve a personalized bathroom experience is by selecting versatile technologies that will effortlessly enhance the bathroom and allow for a heightened sense of lux

ury. From steam showers to warming towel racks, convenient innovation takes the place of extrane ous features, fashioning a truly unique environment. H2Okinetic® Technology is available on a variety of shower components within the Allaria™ collection, to create an indulgent show er experience. Powered by groundbreaking design that harnesses the natu ral energy of water, the technology directs water through specially engi neered chambers in the shower head to create a luxurious spray.

expert tips

Face it - as much as you enjoy having a clean home, limited time and energy can make cleaning seem like a never-ending chore. Howev er, there are some tips and tricks that can help you op timize your time for better results, so you can get back to doing what you love.

Try these pro tips to help you become more efficient with your cleaning routine.

1. Schedule it

Just as you schedule important appointments on your calendar, make sure to block off time for at least one regular cleaning session each week, so you don’t run into the end-ofthe-weekend panic or go into a whirlwind of clean ing when someone’s about to drop by. Set aside time for a full-home run-through to pick up clutter, dust and vacuum. Allow extra time on high-traffic rooms where cleanliness is especially important, like the kitchen and bathrooms.

2. Delegate it

You don’t have to do it all. Get everyone in the household involved in your cleaning efforts. Make sure to be specific and clear about what each person’s obligation is, and that they schedule time on their cal endars too. Family mem bers will be more consistent if you give them choices about their chores and/ or rotate them so nobody is stuck doing the hardest chores all the time.

3. Start at the top

Work from the top down, as dust you sweep away from cleaning ceiling fans, windows and other surfac es will settle on the floor during the process. Tack ling your floors last will be satisfying as well as high ly effective for a feeling of overall cleanliness.

4. Consider tech-forward cleaning tools

To make cleaning easier and less time consuming,

having the correct type of tools impacts results and the overall cleaning ex perience. For example, if you want an easier way to achieve spotless floors, the LG CordZero All in One Auto Empty Cordless Stick Vacuum delivers a zero dust, zero worry experience for a smarter, more conve nient clean.

This innovative tool tackles tough jobs with easy-to-use features such as the auto empty dustbin that keep your hands and home clean. With Kompres sor Technology, pet hair, dirt and dust is compressed with a press of a lever, dou bling your bin capacity and leaving more space for cleanup. The HEPA filtra tion system filters 99.99% of dust, pollen and pet dander to help make life better for anyone in your family with allergies. The vacuum runs for up to 120 minutes with two rechargeable, detach able batteries, allowing you to clean and charge simulta neously.

To make life simple, the LG CordZero can be switched from vacuum to mop in a snap - and the Power Mop attachment is designed to give hard wood floors a perfect finish. When you’re done cleaning, the All-in-One Tower pro vides hidden storage for all of its accessories, allowing for no extra clutter around the house. Using a tool with the latest technology not only makes the job simpler and quicker, but also helps improve the quality of life for everyone in your house hold.

Make sure you’re using the best tools possible for each job you need to tackle, and every chore will be that much easier.

5. Troubleshoot the trou ble spots

As you implement your cleaning process, take note of areas that always get dirt

iest or accumulate the most clutter. Typical areas might be “dumping spots” such as near your front entrance or by a staircase. If there’s no

place for family members to neatly store shoes, back packs, purses or items that need to go up or downstairs, consider providing a box,

bin, shelf or hooks to hold things that would just end up cluttering that area.

With these tips, you can put an efficient process in

routine

place to accomplish your cleaning chores more quick ly and easily - and have time to enjoy the results of your efforts.

into

Warm weather means more time to relax out doors. For those home owners lucky enough to have entertaining spaces outside, spring and sum mer provides plenty of op portunities to enjoy fresh air under the sun or stars.

Over the last few years, families have become especially familiar with what works about their yards and where there is room for improvement. Pandemic-related trav el restrictions and early stay-at-home mandates resulted in plenty of time spent in backyards on staycations. Even though many such restrictions have been lifted, home owners may have seen the benefits of having func tional respites right out side their doors.

A backyard renova tion can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000. The American Society of Landscape Architects suggests homeowners budget the cost of a major landscaping project at be tween 5 and 10 percent of their home’s value. Large or small, here are ways to make an outdoor oasis at home.

Create living privacy

Living in close prox imity to neighbors may make privacy harder to come by. Wood or vinyl fences, however effec tive, may not provide the all-natural look many people desire. Vertical gardening, which trains easy-care vines like En glish ivy, Clematis or various climbing roses to grow on trellis or fencing adds greenery and priva cy. Hedges and fast-grow ing shrubs also can be used for natural barriers.

Install

vacation-worthy oasis

Extend the living space

Decks and patios can help make outdoor en tertaining areas more comfortable by elimi nating the need to sit on the grass or gravel. Plus, they add another “room” to the home. When paired with weatherproof patio furniture, such as sofas, loungers and tables, a pri vate seating area can be crafted and utilized for any number of entertain ing desires.

Hang a hammock

Few things evoke feel ings of relaxation better than a hammock. Fitted between two trees (or two posts if trees are sparse), a hammock is an ideal place to grab a nap or read a book.

Additional oasis-in spired ideas include out door kitchens, letting up lanterns, cascading water features, and bird feeders to attract the sounds of nature.

Pools are the ultimate spots to cool off on hot days. An elaborately shaped inground pool can blend in with the landscape and offer the ultimate hang-out zone. However, above-ground pools also serve the pur pose and are more bud get-friendly. Stock tank pools are popular among those who want mini mal pool expenditure or have small spaces to work with. Stock tanks

are metal vessels tradi tionally used as watering holes for livestock. They also can be “adult kiddie pools” when combined with some plumbing. Galvanized steel frames make them sturdy. With floats and other accesso ries, they can become the perfect oasis.

Provide outdoor atmosphere

Create a bespoke bistro vibe by using freestand

ing planters and posts along with hanging lights to make an intimate out door hangout spot at night. For those with per manent structures, like a deck or a gazebo, lights can be strung across the area or on railings or edg ing.

Top 5 ways to reduce your home energy costs this fall

As temperatures begin dropping this fall, you may be worrying about rising energy costs. Fortunately, there are a number of sim ple, proactive steps you can take that will save on ener gy and expenses for your home - while also increasing comfort - today and well into the future. On top of that, you will also be helping to increase the value of your home with these effective en ergy-saving measures.

Consider these 5 steps to help your home become more energy-efficient.

1. Give your furnace or boiler a checkup

Get in the habit of hav ing your furnace or boiler professionally tuned up and cleaned at least once a year, ideally just before the weather starts turning cold er. Just as you perform reg

ular maintenance on your vehicle, make sure your en tire HVAC system is in top condition - and replace your furnace filter at least every 90 days - to help your HVAC system run more efficient ly. This will reduce your utility bills over time, while keeping you and your family warmer.

2. Go tankless Looking for a great way to cut down on energy usage and also ensure more consis tent access to hot water? Up grading to a tankless water heater will save on energy and expenses compared to a traditional water heater. For example, Noritz EZ Series high-efficiency, condensing tankless water heaters are engineered to replace larger, conventional storage tanktype units, cutting both installation time and costs

Covering

substantially. The wall-hung technology also has zero foot print in your home, which is a great space saver for smaller homes or if you just need more areas for storage. Tankless water heaters effi ciently provide continuous hot water - meaning no more cold showers - along with big energy savings. In addition, tankless water heaters like the Noritz EZ Series also result in reduced carbon emissions and have a longer life expectancy than tradi tional models. Tankless wa ter heaters use top-mounted water connections, avoiding the need for additional and costly plumbing. Even bet ter, you can often find mon ey-saving rebate programs from your local gas utility for your new tankless water heater that will help cut the installed cost even more.

3. Insulate your attic

You’re probably aware that heat rises - so if your at tic is not properly insulated, you may be losing a lot of heated air through your roof every winter. Lack of good attic insulation can also lead to damage from ice buildup, which is costly to repair. If you own an older home, it’s a good idea to have your at tic inspected for insulation before winter sets in. And while older homes are the least likely to have proper ly insulated attics, even if you have a newer home it’s worth having a professional check to see if your attic is under-insulated. This can make a big difference when it comes to heating costs.

4. Make your thermostat programmable

If it’s been a while since you upgraded your thermo

stat, you may be surprised at what new programmable thermostats can do to help keep your home comfortable while also saving on utility bills. The latest models pro vide much better fine tuning when setting your thermo stat, allowing better control of the energy you’re using to heat (or cool) your home. You can make sure you’re not overheating your house when you’re asleep or not at home. Traveling or on vaca tion? New smart thermostats allow you to adjust your home’s thermostat controls remotely, using your phone or another electronic device.

5. Check for leaks

Every year, homeown ers lose a lot of heated (or cooled) air through leaks around areas like win dows, doors and chimneys. Inspecting your home for

leaks can alert you to spots where you may need to im prove caulking, flashing or weather-stripping for a fairly low-cost fix. For a lon ger-term solution, you may want to consider replacing older, less energy-efficient windows and doors with new ones. For help finding leaks, call your utility com pany. Many provide energy audits to help customers locate trouble spots in their homes.

By taking a few of these proactive steps, you can help your family stay cozy and comfortable all winter, while also helping to save energy and protect your budget.

Visit EZSeries.Noritz. com to learn more about how you can save energy, space and expenses on heat ing water for your home.

The Jo Ann Smith Team