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Beautiful Backyards Tips on how to get more out of your yard
Fall Trends
Hues, proďŹ les and styles for the upcoming season
A special publication of the Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer
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Saturday, August 27, 2016 Messenger-Inquirer
Table of Contents LETTER from the
EDITOR Most women, and even some men, know how easy it is to get lost in the black hole that is Pinterest. From mouth-watering recipes to crafts and DIY home projects, it’s easy to create dream boards and pin every detail of your dream home. But we all know real life is nothing like Pinterest. Projects that seem ‘so easy’ online can take several days and good chuck of change. Recipes don’t always turn out ‘just like the picture’ and that refurbished desk can take hours of labor, lots of paint and sandpaper and even some time off your life. When it comes to sprucing up your home, use caution when browsing project ideas. Stick to your budget and don’t get swept up in the idea that you need an HGTV-worthy home. Remember, your home is about who you share it with, not the space it occupies or the trinkets it is filled with. I am still looking for homeowners who have tackled some big DIY or home renovation projects. If you would like your story told, please contact me at mrichardson@ messenger-inquirer.com or 270-691-7233.
— Meghann Richardson Special Publications Editor
YARD TIPS page 5
NEW SPACES pages 8-9
POOL PREP page 11
on the cover
photo by the associated press
Deep, rich blues are trending across all decor categories. | PAGES 6-7
Messenger-Inquirer Saturday, August 27, 2016
MORTGAGE terms
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to know
BY MEGHANN RICHARDSON
What you need to get approved What it takes to get approved for a mortgage: • Monthly income statements • Sum of your total monthly debt payments (example: student loans) • Credit score • How much money you can put down Mortgage loans are available from several types of lenders – commercial banks, mortgage companies and credit unions – and you can shop online, by phone or in person. Don’t be afraid to shop around for the best deal. Low mortgage rates can pay off in the long run and end up saving you thousands.
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adjustable-rate mortgage, is one in which the interest rate on the Buying a home is simultaneously mortgage remains the same for the exciting and stressful. Owning life of the loan. Buyers typically a home is still a dream for many prefer a fixed-rate mortgage because people, but first-time buyers often they know exactly what they will be find that their unfamiliarity with the paying for their home each month. home buying process is a source of An adjustable-rate mortgage, often stress. referred to as an ARM loan, is one But, across the U.S. low mortgage that typically comes with a lower rates and a high buying rate have left interest rate initially than a fixed-rate home buyers in a good position. mortgage, but that lower rate is Even with being in a good position usually only locked in for a relatively to buy a home, a lot of stress still brief period of time, such as one year. happens. Part of that stress stems Once that initial time period is over, from the terminology associated with the interest rate can then increase home mortgages. and may increase several times Mortgage rates play a significant thereafter over the life of the loan. role in how much home you can afford — and when rates are low, a PMI home that was once unaffordable PMI, which stands for private may now be within reach. mortgage insurance, must be Many terms may raise an eyebrow purchased by home buyers who are among first-time buyers, so the financing more than 80 percent of following are a few mortgage terms their homes. The standard down buyers can familiarize themselves payment when purchasing a home with to facilitate the process of is 20 percent, but some buyers can’t buying their own homes. afford such a down payment. As a result, the lender then mandates CLOSING COSTS that such buyers purchase PMI, Buying a home is expensive, which protects the lender if the and part of that expense is the borrower defaults on the loan. The closing costs. Any time a real estate cost of PMI will be added to your transaction occurs, that transaction mortgage payment, and once you is accompanied by certain expenses, have 20 percent equity in your home which are known as the closing you can cancel PMI, at which time costs. Closing costs may include your monthly mortgage payment will attorney fees, loan origination fees, decrease. title insurance and escrow payments. Buyers can sometimes negotiate with TITLE INSURANCE the seller so the seller will agree to Title insurance is a tool that pay the closing costs, or the costs protects both the buyer and the can be shared by the buyer and the seller against legal issues that may seller. But buyers may also pay the arise as a result of the home’s title. closing costs in their entirety on Title insurance protects buyers and their own. the lender from the possibility that the seller was not legally permitted ESCROW to transfer ownership of the property Escrow is a bond, deed, document to the buyer. Title insurance may or money kept in the custody of also protect sellers from any issues a third party until a real estate that may arise that threaten his or transaction has been completed. her ability to sell the home. In addition, escrow accounts are used to hold the property tax and Come prepared when applying for insurance fees that are collected via a mortgage. First-time home buyers your monthly mortgage payment. will have a more lengthy process to complete versus someone who has FIXED-RATE MORTGAGE a large credit histor y and buying A fixed-rate mortgage, unlike an background.
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Messenger-Inquirer Saturday, August 27, 2016
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to get more out of your BACKYARD During the summer and fall months, there is nothing better than spending time outside on your deck or patio. But before you can enjoy those outdoor spaces to the fullest, you need to put in a little work to make them feel fresh and new again. These tips from gardener, outdoors expert and author of the Garden Betty blog Linda Ly can help you clean up your outdoor space and refresh your home’s exterior.
1. MAKE IT EDIBLE
If you’re conflicted about what to plant, turn to functional plants that look good and taste great, too. Ly’s favorite meals come from her backyard, with raised beds where she rotates vegetables such as kale, beets and radishes, and herbs are scattered throughout the garden in small beds and pots.
2. READY THE DECK
No one likes fungus on the deck — or mildew stains, dirt or weather-beaten patches. Pressure wash your deck then re-stain it with a matching color and finish, and apply a wood preservative to help prevent water damage and discoloration.
3. REMOVE MOLD AND MILDEW
Mold and mildew can form on the exterior siding and trim of your home, as well as on patio furniture, flower pots and swimming pools. It’s important to regularly clean the outside of your house as well as your outdoor furniture and accessories that may be susceptible to standing water to remove any mold or mildew. It is easy to remove mold or mildew with a garden hose, a long-handled brush and a
mixture of one-half cup of Clorox Regular-Bleach per each gallon of water.
4. GIVE IT A FRESH COAT
Weather can really take a toll on a paint job. If your shutters are looking dull or more washed out than before, it might be time for a
touch-up. Same goes for the garage door as well as your front door. Nothing is more welcoming to guests than a well-cared-for facade.
5. STOP THE SPREAD OF FUNGAL DISEASE IN GARDENS
One thing to be mindful of in the garden is fungal diseases, which
can be deadly to plants and wildlife. Although it may not be the first thing that comes to mind, Clorox Bleach when used as directed is a simple but powerful tool that is often used to help stop the spread of fungal diseases, and can even keep flowers alive longer when you add a small amount to the vase.
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Fall’s fab finds
Five decor trends for the upcoming autumn season BY KIM COOK
far corners of the planet, she says: “There’s retro style and global influence everywhere.” his fall, decor continues to move in Fall also offers a range of new rugs, a more easygoing direction, with from fluffy wools in neutral colors to welcoming hues, softer profiles, and a comfortable mix of materials and styles. kilims in deeper tones and stronger For those with a flair for the dramatic, patterns. Amy Matthews, the Minneapolis-based there’s room for that too. renovation maven who has hosted shows Some trends for the upcoming season: on HGTV, DIY Network and TheDesignNetwork.com, loves using Persian WARM AND WELCOMING New York designer Elaine Griffin sees runners in unexpected places. “There’s nothing like (it) in the the influence of Millennials in a trend kitchen,” she says. “It brightens up a toward “feel good finds” with a palette of classic kitchen, and also makes changing warm colors, laidback furnishings and out color schemes a breeze. And in any lots of texture. other room, it will take your decor to the “Millennials’ homes echo the nurturing environments they grew up in,” next level by anchoring with ‘art’ for the floor.” she says. Look for kilims on benches and That generation is embracing locally ottomans, too. produced crafts as well as goods from
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ASSOCIATED PRESS
PATTERN PLAY
Geometrics, mineral prints, florals and global motifs get fresh interpretations for fall. For Griffin, “marble motifs are the ‘it’ pattern of the season.” The veined white versions are ubiquitous across bath, kitchen and tabletop goods, but look too for marbleized patterns in dramatic hues on fabric and paper. Wallpapers are on Matthews’ pattern radar. “Wallpaper’s not just for the walls anymore,” she says. It can go on ceilings and even furniture. “It’s more dramatic and eye-catching than paint, making a strong statement and setting the tone for a room,” she says. Roman blinds are also back in style, with contemporary pattern collections
by designers like Diane Von Furstenberg and Jeffrey Alan Marks.
MIX AND MATCH METALS
Beth Kushnick, set decorator for CBS’ “The Good Wife,” puts metallics near the top of her trend list. “Some are highly reflective and others are more subtle, but they’re in gold, silver, copper and rubbed bronze. They really up-scale a look and broaden a color palette,” she says. The trend appeals to Matthews, too. Her style tip: Don’t overdo it. “I prefer not to pick any more than three different metallic-finished pieces, and then put them together for an eclectic and timeless look,” she says.
COLOR STORY
“My go-to color is always blue,” says
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Kushnick. “I’m seeing dark blue and teal in particular now, which work so well for a variety of styles, bridging the gap between masculine and feminine.” Adds Matthews: “Cool grays are giving way to dusty, sky and indigo blues.” Griffin is seeing muted versions of ’60s pottery hues — turquoise, coral, citrus and ivory — debuting this fall and carrying into spring 2017. A range of whites and creams will complement all those metallics, says Kushnick. “As a set decorator, I usually try to stay away from these colors, since they’re difficult to use on camera. But on my new show (CBS’ “BrainDead”) I’m using them almost exclusively. I’m seeing options in every décor style. White’s working year-round, and is here to stay.” The paint company Benjamin Moore has named Simply White its color of the year, and Sherwin-Williams, Glidden and Behr also selected whites as their signature 2016 colors.
DRAMATIC TOUCHES
Matthews is excited about “the rebirth of the chandelier.” She sees the statement fixture as one of the most dramatic and playful additions to any room. “Designs look best when they’re eclectic and a bit eccentric,” she says, adding, “The more eye-catching, the better. If tile is ‘eye candy’ for the walls, then pendant lights are the earrings that make the outfit.” For Griffin, the drama’s all about a curvier silhouette in furnishings. “After years of harsh angles, the curve looks fresh for fall,” she observes. “Streamlined new versions are evocative of ’70s and ’80s classics.” Left: Deep, rich blues are trending across all the decor categories this fall including this blue, upholstered sofa from Crate & Barrel. Crate & Barrel via AP
Right: DwellStudio’s Pietro chair combines luxe upholstered curves with a set of sexy metallic legs. A more modern take on midcentury styling, a curvier silhouette and metallic accents are just some of the big trends for Fall 2016. DwellStudio via AP
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Saturday, August 27, 2016 Messenger-Inquirer
s a e d i e Fiv for repurposing kids’ bedrooms
after high school, empty nesters reclaim space BY MEGHANN RICHARDSON
Now that your kids have launched lives of their own, you may be considering how to maximize the extra space they left behind. Making renovations can be a fun way to turn their now-empty rooms into a useful and/or relaxing space for your
own enjoyment. And your timing could be spot on; a recent survey found half of empty-nesters of pre-retirement age are opting to stay in their family homes instead of downsizing. Pinterest and other websites are also a great starting places to gather ideas for what to do with your newly empty
room. Visit local home improvement stores for tips and tricks on who to make renovations easier. While the project of changing an entire room might seem daunting, with the right preparation, it should be a breeze. “Retirement isn’t all about being practical,” notes Ken Dychtwald of
consulting firm Age Wage. “More and more people are turning their empty nests into nurturing nests.” Even better, with today’s easy-to-use construction tools, repurposing rooms can be stress-free and efficient. If you haven’t engaged in DIY projects lately, it’s worthwhile to check out some of the newest market innovations in saws, cordless drills, portable nailers and belt sanders. Here are some DIY ideas for using such tools to repurpose your space:
Messenger-Inquirer Saturday, August 27, 2016
PRIVATE GYM
Building a workout space right into your home should eliminate any excuses to avoid exercise. Features might include mirrored walls, storage space for gear, a sound system, extra ventilation and/or rubber floor tiles for acoustic control.
MAN OR WOMAN CAVE
This room could incorporate an endless array of hobbies specific to your interests including reading, watching movies, creating art, practicing music, playing video games or cheering on your favorite sports team.
GUEST BEDROOM
Now that your kids have flown the coop, you have more time to entertain
friends, whereupon an appealing guest bedroom could be a boom to your social life. Another option is using space-saving furniture to combine a guest bedroom with a room that serves other purposes, such as an office or reading room.
WALK-IN CLOSET
Multiple retailers now offer dream closet components like drawers, bars, shelves, mirrors and containers. Consider a vanity and/or benches for relaxing as you apply makeup, try on shoes and accessories and create the perfect outfit.
HOME OFFICE
With so many tasks like paying bills and running a household, you need a space to manage it all.
Reward yourself with a home office. A refreshing, relaxing space with a bookshelf, computer desk and coffee table is perfect for being studious and productive.
MEDITATION ROOM
Create a space to recharge yourself physically and mentally, perhaps with natural light, a sound system and elements of nature like plants, flowers and/or a water fountain. To achieve a Zen quality, minimal furniture and accessories are recommended. Pastels or dark colors are considered the most relaxing colors. Consider building a customized meditation table to work as the centerpiece of your room.
HOME THEATRE
Why go to the movies with you can
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enjoy the big screen from the comfort of your own home. Many households are acquiring home theaters for fun and relaxation. Theater chairs, a popcorn machine, black out curtains and a projector all are you need to make movie night an every night ordeal.
CRAFT ROOM
Sometimes a box of glitter and stickers is not enough. Crafters know that their supplies can fill a room. Make your extra bedroom a craft room by adding lots of bright colors, natural light and crafting supplies. The brighter, the better. These empty rooms are yours to conquer. You’ve done your job of raising children and sending them out into the real world. Reward yourself a space that’s all your own.
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Saturday, August 27, 2016 Messenger-Inquirer
FROM OLD TO NEW area homeowner diys wall update
BY MEGHANN RICHARDSON
the tiles. “Once all of the holes and When Lucas Holloway and blemishes on the wall had his wife Jodi bought a house in been repaired I finally got to 2016, they knew it would need choose my new color of paint some work. and I repainted the wall,” he His first project? said. Refinishing a wall. Holloway said he decided A project like this is to do the renovation himself usually as simple as throwing because of his confidence on a new coat of paint and to finish the job. He said if repainting with the color of for any reason he had any your choice. concerns that the project “This refinishing project would have revealed any was different because problems he couldn’t the previous owners handle, he would had vinyl tiles, have paid the kind most someone else to people use do it. for a flooring “This project, stuck project also on the wall,” cost more he said. “The time than adhesive money so it backing on was something these tiles had I was willing to do most likely set or myself,” he said. LUCAS AND had time to cure “From start to and harden for JODI HOLLOWAY finish I would say 40 years or more. a project like this I estimate this time frame would take three days with because the pattern of the tiles two people working on it.” was straight out of the 50s, 60s He said the one thing he or 70s. Certainly a style option learned with this project is that no longer available at a home work done properly will not improvement store in 2016.” kill you. To make the wall look “Honestly I would say this better he first removed the project taught me that with the vinyl tiles from the wall with time put in and a little effort, a few tools and some elbow home improvement projects grease. Holloway said he first can be done by the average used a heat gun and a tile homeowner,” Holloway said. scraper to remove the tile. The “I have zero formal training in heat loosened the adhesive anything I did on the project, and the scraper was used to but I relied on YouTube separate the tile from the wall. for video references and Then, he used an old rag “how-to’s” and I was also not and some adhesive remover to afraid to ask for help and input scrub the remaining/residual from those who knew more adhesive from the wall. than I.” After removing the tiles Holloway said his next Holloway went over the wall project is to install a garage with spackling to repair some door opener that he hopes to holes in the wall hidden by done by winter.
Closing the pool for another season Messenger-Inquirer Saturday, August 27, 2016
Closing a pool at the end of the swimming season can be bittersweet. Homeowners may be sad to bid adieu to the lazy days of splashing and swimming, but ready to embrace the cooler weather and the beauty of autumn. Before the leaves begin to fall from the trees, pool owners must prepare to close, or winterize, their pools.
become difficult to find in area stores. These include sanitizer, algaecide and pH-balancing chemicals.
CLEAN THE ENTIRE POOL AREA
sunlight and evaporation will decrease. An algaecide may be used, if desired, as well. In very cold climates, a pool-water antifreeze may be necessary. Check with your pool supply retailer for more information.
Ensuring the pool water and the surface of the pool is clean can make reopening the pool easy. Vacuum the RUN THE FILTER Run the filter at least 24 hours before pool thoroughly, removing any debris and organic matter that can contribute to disassembling the filter for the season. algae growth. Don’t forget to brush down This will help circulate any chemicals GATHER YOUR SUPPLIES the walls of the pool and clean the jets and added through the water. Make a list of the supplies you need area where the filter skimmer meets the to close the pool. Having everything on hand will make the process far more pool. Pool walls have plenty of crevices DRAIN THE POOL’S WATER efficient than trying to wing it. Closing a where algae can hide and multiply. TO THE APPROPRIATE LEVEL pool can be a large job, so it pays to have Water should fall just below the some extra hands available. Enlist some skimmer opening. Many pools don’t need TEST THE WATER helpers who will be available to hand to be completely drained for the winter. Leading pool products manufacturer you materials or to assist with placing Hayward recommends adjusting the pH the cover on the pool — which can be to between 7.2 and 7.8 to prevent stains, SHUT OFF THE FILTER challenging to do on your own. scaling and algae growth. Alkalinity PUMP, HEATER AND should be 80 to 125 ppm for plaster/ ANY OTHER EQUIPMENT DON’T WAIT UNTIL THE LAST gunite pools and 125 to 150 ppm for other Let all water drain out and allow MINUTE TO PURCHASE CHEMICALS pool types. Test the level of available equipment to dry before storing them The chemicals used throughout chlorine, and super-chlorinate the pool away. Follow the manufacturer’s the season will also be needed in the to maintain a sanitation level of at least directions for lubrication and covering. winterization process. Therefore, be sure 4 ppm. Once the pool cover is on, the Install freeze plugs if you choose to use you have enough before pool supplies amount of chlorine that escapes due to them.
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ADJUST ELECTRICITY SETTINGS
Turn off the circuit to outdoor outlets that feed the pool equipment, testing to make sure the power is off.
PUT ACCESSORIES AWAY
Remove any ladders, diving boards, slides, external drain lines, and other recreational materials from the pool, storing them in a garage or shed so they are not subjected to potentially harsh winter weather.
INFLATE AIR PILLOWS TO ROUGHLY 80 PERCENT FULL IF YOU WILL BE USING THEM
Gather your helpers to attach the pool cover or leaf catcher net. Secure it thoroughly with anchors, water bags, wire fasteners, or whatever is applicable for the cover and pool type. Remember, a quality pool cover will last for several years and keep leaves, dust and other unwanted items out of the water. Come early autumn, homeowners can begin closing their pools to keep them secure and clean until the next swimming season begins.
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w o n k u ? Did yo
Home improvement projects can inadvertently expose homeowners to hidden dangers. For example, lead paint may be lurking underneath layers of existing paint in older homes. Exposure to lead dust or fumes may cause brain damage or other adverse health effects, especially in children or pregnant women. It is essential that homeowners control their exposure  to lead or other hazardous substances through the use of protective equipment, such as a properly fitted respirator. If lead is discovered, it may require professional containment and cleanup. If you suspect you have lead paint or other hazardous materials in your home, contact EnviroFocus, 1-888881-8067. EnviroFocus offers a number of professional services in Owensboro and throughout the Daviess County area. Whether you are looking to have a mold inspector visit your property to conduct mold testing and assess for damage or if you simply want to know if your water quality is healthy and safe for your family, EnviroFocus can help.
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