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HOME AND FARM
2 - Mountain Times Publications
Wednesday, April 15-16, 2020
High Country farmers markets continue to grow
BY ABBY WHITT
H
IGH COUNTRY — The High Country is a hub of unique seasonal happenings that are organized to support local artists, struggling individuals and business owners as much as possible. As a result of the community spirit, farmers markets across the High Country focus on supporting local farms, their owners and the products they produce in Watauga, Ashe and Avery counties. Watauga County is home to two seasonal farmers markets: one for the warmer seasons and one for the winter. The traditional Watauga County Farmers Market, which began in 1974, according to its website, is planning to launch its spring/summer 2020 season at the beginning of May until Oct. 12, and an additional weekend Nov. 2-12. Gatherings take place from 8 a.m. until noon on each Saturday from May to October and from 9 a.m. until noon in November. “Every Saturday morning May through November you will find fresh produce, locally farmed meats, eggs, artisan chocolate, fine pastries and breads, cut flowers, hardy plants, handcrafted jewelry, original art, unique crafts, locally roasted coffee, smoked sturgeon/ caviar, honey, carved wooden tableware, apothecary products, herbal tinctures, and therapeutic oils,” states the market’s website at www.wataugacountyfarmersmarket.org. Boone’s Winter Farmers Market is held each Saturday from 9 a.m. until noon from December until April. The farmers market is a project of Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture, a nonprofit organization that was founded in 2005 “to create a supportive network of female gardeners and farmers operating small-scale, diversified farms in the High Country,” according to its history at www. brwia.org/about.html. The King Street Farmers Market, also organized by Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture, takes place each Tuesday from 4-7 p.m. from May to October. This market can
PHOTO BY KATHERINE CLAIRE Ryan Higgs with Blue Ridge Apiaries sells his products at the Watauga County Farmer’s Market.
PHOTO SUBMITTED Melissa Hagar, of Creston, sells microgreens, vegetables and herbal lotions to customers at the Ashe County Farmers Market.
FILE PHOTO The Watauga County Farmers Market opened for the 2019 season on May 4.
be found at 130 Poplar Grove Connector in Boone. The Ashe County Farmers Market was scheduled to open for the season beginning at 8 a.m. on
statement on the market’s website at www.ashefarmersmarket.com. A full list of protocols is available online. The weekly market takes place
Saturday, April 11. “We will implement protocols to help ‘flatten the curve’ and do our part to slow the spread of coronavirus,” organizers said in a
from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. at 108 Backstreet in West Jefferson, featuring items such as “fresh SEE MARKETS ON PAGE 3
HOME AND FARM
Wednesday, April 15-16, 2020
Mountain Times Publications -
MARKETS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2
vegetables and fruits, local honey, molasses, maple syrup, homemade jams, jellies, and locally grown popcorn,â€? according to its website. Avery County Farmers Market in Banner Elk oers artisan breads, meat cuts, plants, and fruits and vegetables to visitors throughout its season. Gatherings take place each Thursday from 4:30-7 p.m. at the historic Banner Elk School. According to its mission statement on its Facebook page, the Avery County Farmers Market is “dedicated to serve the needs of the farms and farmers throughout Avery County, promote ethical standards, encourage the growth and well being of local farms, and educate the public in Avery County to the benefits of supporting local farms.â€? Find more information online at www.averycountyfarmersmarket.net. The Blowing Rock Farmers Market is another mid-week market that oers local produce, flowers and other goods from local farms. The market lasts from 3-6 p.m. on Thursdays, beginning on May 21, at 132 Park Avenue in Blowing
PHOTO SUBMITTED Produce at a past Boone Winter Farmers Market is on display.
Rock. Johnson County Farmers Market features a number of local goods, including produce, meats, baked goods, eggs, handmade art and crafts, and others, in Mountain City, Tenn. The market takes place from 9 a.m. until noon on Saturdays at
716 S. Shady St. in Mountain City, which is about 40 minutes away from Boone. Organizers and vendors of the market are celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2020, according to its website at www.johnsoncountyfm.com/about-us. The Johnson County Farmers
Market was closed on two dates in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Updates going forward can be found online at www.johnsoncountyfm.com/home. The High Country Food Hub, which is another project of the Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture, is a year-round farmers
market platform that oers online purchases along with pickup in Boone. The organization features “500plus locally made products from 50-plus High Country farmers and food entrepreneurs,â€? according to its website at www.highcountryfoodhub.org. Products that community members can order online include buttermilk biscuits, goat milk fudge, spices and seasonings, fresh fruits and vegetables, natural salves, and several others. The High Country Food Hub, where orders can be picked up each Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. until 6 p.m., is located at 252 Poplar Grove Road in Boone. Orders must be placed by 11:59 p.m. on the Monday before in order to ensure that products are ready for pick up on Wednesday. Dave Walker, development director for Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture, said “What I love about shopping at traditional tailgate farmers markets and at the Food Hub is that you get to know where your food comes from. The story of how it was grown or made is right there. You know when you eat local food that a lot of love went into that product. You can taste it.â€?
Barns are a great American tradition. Whether a place to house animals, an Event Center, a site for the occasional social gathering or as your new custom Barn Home. A HearthStone Heavy Timber Barn is THE DEFINITIVE out-building. At Mountain Construction we can take your ideas and design a barn (or home) that will meet all your needs, with aesthetic and structural appeal. With over 30 years of custom home building experience Mountain Construction provides the highest quality project at the best possible price to give you unequaled value. Mountain Construction has created energy-efficient, creative and quality-built projects for over 300 clients. Whether serving our local High Country market or working regionally out of our “home market�, Mountain Construction has been providing the highest quality Home Design/Building, Remodeling or Historic Restoration services since 1985. Regardless of your specific needs, please contact us to schedule your free consultation today.
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4 - Mountain Times Publications
HOME AND FARM
Wednesday, April 15-16, 2020
DIY projects that can conserve energy around the house
Even the smallest DIY projects can produce big savings.
TODAY WE GIVE THANKS
for the food on our table, the clothes on our backs and the FARMERS who make it all happen! Parker Tie has been selling to farmers for over 85 years!
Whether you’re a large or small farmer, we appreciate the business you do with us and your hard work growing the crops for our families.
5th
Home renovation projects can pay numerous dividends. Renovations can have a positive effect on resale value, make homes more livable for residents and, in some ways, make homes more affordable. Renovation projects that aim to conserve energy can save homeowners substantial amounts of money. Such projects don’t often require considerable effort or even sizable financial investments, which can make homeowners skeptical as to just how much they can save after completing the project. But the scale of a project may have little to do with how much homeowners will save. For example, the U.S. Department of Energy notes that a relatively effortless task like turning back a thermostat between 7 degrees and 10 degrees F for eight hours per day can save homeowners as much as $83 per year. A more labor-intensive task like planting shade trees saves homeowners an average of between $35 and $119 per year. When looking for ways to conserve energy around the house and save money, homeowners need not necessarily commit to expensive projects. The DOE notes that the following are some energy-saving projects and details what homeowners can expect to save after completing them. While each individual project may not result in jaw-dropping savings, homeowners who follow many of these recommendations may end up saving more than $1,000 per year. Project: Install exterior low-e storm windows What is it? Low-e windows reflect infrared heat back into a home. Such windows are coated with an ultra-thin layer of metal that improves the window’s insulation ability. How much can I save? Homeowners who install low-e windows can save between 12 and 33 percent on their annual heating and cooling costs. Project: Seal uncontrolled air leaks What is it? Air leaks let cool air in during winter and warm air in during summer. Caulking, sealing and weather stripping all cracks and large openings can cut back on air leaks that are costing you money. The DOE recommends hiring a contractor to seal any leaks on heating and cooling ducts. How much can I save? Homeowners who seal uncontrolled air leaks can save between 10 and 20 percent on their annual heating and cooling bills. Project: Plant shade trees What is it? If you plant a deciduous tree between six and eight feel tall near your home, it will begin to shade your windows within a year of being planted. Depending on the species of the tree and the home, the shade tree will begin shading the roof within five to 10 years. The DOE notes that shading is the most cost-effective way to reduce air conditioning costs. How much can I save? Properly planted shade trees can reduce air conditioning costs by anywhere from 15 to 50 percent. Project: Insulate the water heater tank What is it? New water tanks are likely already insulated. But homeowners with older hot water tanks can insulate their tanks with a water heater insulating blanket kit. How much can I save? Insulating a water heater tank can save homeowners as much as 16 percent on their annual water heating bills. Even the smallest DIY projects can produce big savings. More information about energy-saving home improvement projects can be found at www.energy.gov.
Wednesday, April 15-16, 2020
HOME AND FARM
Mountain Times Publications -
5
Compost is part of the circle of life in gardens
The season for fresh fruits and vegetables grown right in the backyard is almost upon us. Warm weather breathes life into fresh berries, tomatoes, eggplant, cucumbers and many other delectable fruits and vegetables. Home gardens can be supplemented with delicious finds from the supermarket or farmer’s market, including melons, corn and more. The bounty of the garden can be made more abundant and fruitful with the addition of the right soil amendments. Compost is a key element of rich, nutritious soil. Scraps from items that have been grown in the garden can then be reused in the production of the compost that feeds that same garden. It’s a continuous circle of garden life. Getting started with compost is relatively easy. Homeowners should choose an outdoor space near the garden but far away from the home so that it won’t be disturbed by kids or animals. Some people opt for an open compost pile, while others choose closed bins to contain the possible smell and to camouflage the compost. A sunny spot will help the compost to develop faster, according to Good Housekeeping. The next step is to start gathering the scraps and materials that will go into the compost. Better Homes and Gardens suggests keeping a bucket or bin in the kitchen to accumulate kitchen scraps. Here are some kitchen-related items that can go into the compost material: • Eggshells • Fruit peels • Vegetable peels and scraps • Coffee grounds • Shredded newspaper In addition to these materials, grass and plant clippings, dry leaves, bark chips, straw, and sawdust from untreated
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Compost will not only add nutrients to garden soil, but also it can help insulate plants and may prevent some weed growth.
wood can go into the pile. Avoid diseased plants, anything with animal fats, dairy products and pet feces. A low-maintenance pile has an equal amount of brown and green plant matter in the compost plus moisture to keep the bacteria growing and eating at the right rate. Aerating the compost occasionally, or turning the bin when possible, will allow the compost to blend and work together. Compost will take a few months to form completely, says
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the Planet Natural Research Center. The finished product will resemble a dark, crumbly soil that smells like fresh earth. Compost will not only add nutrients to garden soil, but also it can help insulate plants and may prevent some weed growth. It is a good idea to start a compost pile as a free source of nutrition for plants and a method to reduce food waste in an environmentally sound way.
HOME AND FARM
6 - Mountain Times Publications
Wednesday, April 15-16, 2020
Improve storage at home Homes are getting bigger, but it seems like people are still lamenting a lack of storage space. National Public Radio says the average American home has nearly tripled in size during the last 50 years. Despite that, 10 percent of Americans still need to rent offsite storage, according to a report in the New York Times Magazine. Self-storage facilities are one of the fastest-growing commercial real estate segments, and the Self Storage Association says there are more than 50,000 storage facilities in the U.S. alone. The commercial real estate company CBRE, Ltd., says there are roughly 3,000 self-storage facilities across Canada, and 65 to 85 percent of self-storage tenants are residential users. Improving storage at home can be a cost-effective alternative to renting storage space. With these easy tips, homeowners can maximize space immediately. Utilize track storage systems Closets may be plentiful, but if not efficiently utilized, space may still seem lacking. Track closet storage systems often make greater use of closet space than traditional shelf and hanging rod systems. Customizing closets using track systems or other modifications can improve utility of all closets in the house.
Closets may be plentiful, but if not efficiently utilized, space may still seem lacking.
Think vertically Maximize spaces by looking up and down for storage possibilities. Items that
are not used frequently, such as seasonal decorations or travel suitcases, can be stored in high spaces. Shelving on walls
can go as high as necessary and be put to use in awkward wall areas, such as in corners or under eaves. Invest in storage beds Storage beds typically feature cubbies or drawers within a platform-style bed frame. It’s a practical home storage solution, and does not require any building. Invest in storage beds Storage beds typically feature cubbies or drawers within a platform-style bed frame. It’s a practical home storage solution, and does not require any building. Invest in storage benches/ottomans A stopping area inside the front door replete with a storage bench can house shoes, umbrellas, hats, backpacks, and other items, keeping them tidy and out of sight. In living rooms, look for chests or ottomans that are decorative and functional. Store throw blankets or board games inside. Recess drawers or shelves Gain more storage by recessing a chest of drawers into what is called the “knee wall” of homes that have sloped ceilings in attics and upstairs bedrooms. Utilize these short walls in an efficient manner by sinking drawers or shelves into them, without taking up floor space.
Affordable features to consider when revamping your kitchen Kitchens are popular gathering spots in many homes. That popularity is reflected in various ways, including how many homeowners choose to remodel their kitchens. A 2019 report from the home renovation and design resource Houzz found that kitchens were the most popular room to renovate
in 2018. Homeowners considering kitchen remodels should know that the Houzz report also indicated that spending on kitchen remodels increased by 27 percent in 2018. Homeowners concerned by the cost of remodeling a kitchen should know that there are ways to give kitchens a whole new feel
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without breaking the bank. Appliances Consumer Reports notes that luxury home buyers expect high-end features, including professional ranges and built-in refrigerators that match the surrounding cabinetry. However, many mainstream brands offer “faux pro” features that can equal more expensive alternatives. Consumer Reports even notes that many budget-friendly faux pro appliances outperformed their high-end counterparts in terms of reliability. Countertops Countertops tend to capture the eye’s attention when walking into a kitchen. Outdated and/ or damaged countertops grab that attention for all the wrong reasons, while updated countertops made from today’s most popular materials provide that wow factor homeowners seek. If granite is a must-have,
Kitchen remodels can be expensive. But there are many affordable ways to revamp a kitchen.
Consumer Reports notes that homeowners can save substantial amounts of money by choosing granite from remnants at the stone yard. If marble is your ideal countertop, save money by choosing a domestic product as opposed to one imported from overseas. Cabinets Custom-built cabinets
may be a dream, but they tend to be a very expensive one. Such cabinets are designed to adhere to the dimensions of the kitchen, and Consumer Reports notes that they can cost tens of thousands of dollars. If that estimate would bust your budget, examine the current layout of the existing cabinets. If the layout is
fine but the cabinets need work, you can give them a whole new look by refinishing them. If the cabinets must go, stock units or semi-custom cabinets can provide a new look without busting the budget. Kitchen remodels can be expensive. But there are many affordable ways to revamp a kitchen.
Wednesday, April 15-16, 2020
HOME AND FARM
Mountain Times Publications -
ARCHITECTURAL STYLE MADE EASY Andersen® A-Series windows and doors are based Before homeowners know it, winter is gone and it is time to once again enjoy long days spent outdoors.
Get ready: Early spring landscaping tips During the cold months of winter, many people stare longingly out of the window dreaming of spring and time spent outdoors. For those with green thumbs, images of tending to the garden and other aspects of their landscapes no doubt dominate such daydreams. Draw inspiration from those budding crocuses and daffodils pushing through the last remnants of snow and employ these tips to prepare for the upcoming gardening season. • One of the first steps is to apply a preemergent weed killer to get a head start knocking out weeds that can plague the lawn during the growing season. Killing weeds at the roots early on can mean far fewer hassles in spring and summer, and may prevent new generations of weeds from cropping up each year. • While it may be tempting to take a prematurely warm day as a sign that spring is in full force and purchase a bunch of annuals, it’s better to know the last of the possible frost dates (check “The Farmer’s Almanac”); otherwise, you may waste time and money planting flowers or vegetables only to have them zapped by another frosty day. • Amend the soil so that it is the right consistency — just crumbling when lifting it. Soil that is too muddy after spring thaw can harden, making it difficult for plants to flourish later on. Speak with represen-
tatives at a local lawn and garden center about which types of amendments you can add to the soil in your particular area to enrich it. • Lawn and garden experts suggest filling in bare patches of lawn now by mixing a few shovelfuls of soil with grass seed. Then apply this patch to the bare areas, water, and continue to care for the area until the spot fills in. • Spend a day in the garage or shed tending to the lawn mower and other gardening equipment. Clean all tools and ensure that everything works, repairing parts as needed. • Give outdoor entertaining spaces a good scrubbing, clearing away dirt and grime that may have accumulated over the winter. Use a leaf blower to blow away any leftover leaves. • Check if the front porch, railings or decking need painting and/or staining. Tackle these projects when the weather is cooler so everything will be ready for those peak spring days. • Think about any annuals you might want to plant in the landscape this year that will complement any existing shrubbery or perennials. Come up with a theme so that the entire yard is cohesive. Before homeowners know it, winter is gone and it is time to once again enjoy long days spent outdoors. Get a jump start on spring lawn prep as soon as you can.
on the style of home you want. Whether it’s a stately Queen Anne, a bold Modernist design or anything in between, you can now create it with the bestperforming, most energy-efficient products Andersen has ever offered. Don’t just imagine your dream home, build it with Andersen.
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HOME AND FARM
8 - Mountain Times Publications
Wednesday, April 15-16, 2020
Maintenance key to functioning farms The family automobile is not the only piece of equipment that requires routine upkeep to ensure it is operating properly. Life on a farm can come to a screeching halt if farm equipment is not properly maintained. Farmers invest hundreds of thousands of dollars on agricultural equipment, such as tractors, tillers, hoppers and dozers. Adhering to maintenance schedules can prevent breakdowns and decrease the need for potentially costly emergency repairs. Keep it clean Cleaning the surface of equipment can go a long way toward keeping it operating smoothly. Use a pressure washer to remove caked-on mud and other debris. Titan iron suppliers recommend quickly washing equipment after usage so that substances do not have the chance to harden. Learn the equipment Over time, it is possible to employ your senses of sight, sound and even smell to determine if equipment is working properly. Familiarize yourself with the owner’s manual so you can
troubleshoot minor problems. Any unusual sounds, odors or responses from the gear should be noted. Routine maintenance checks Routinely inspect hoses, fittings and seals to ensure they are in good working condition. Be sure fluids, such as coolant and oil, are at the proper levels. Check and replace filters as needed. Tires need to be properly inflated, and inspect the battery for corrosion or other signs that it may need to be replaced. Check belts for cracks. Tour the exterior of the equipment looking at signals and lights to ensure they are in proper working order. Hardware should be tightened and any missing pieces replaced. Heavy farm equipment needs motor oil, hydraulic oil and filters changed more frequently than automobiles. Such equipment also may need more frequent lubrication of chains and cables. Always check and inspect equipment prior to jobs requiring heavy and extended usage. Expect some welding Have a knowledgeable welder
Maintenance on farm equipment helps keep operations running along and protects expensive investments.
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of welding equipment, say cleaning the surface area and removing any paint, oil or corrosion from the metal area that needs repairing can make for smooth,
durable welds. Multi-process welding generators and accessories can ensure the right welds for repairs in the field or in the shop.
HOME AND FARM
Wednesday, April 15-16, 2020
Mountain Times Publications -
9
Keep kids safe when mowing the lawn
When mowing their lawns, parents must make safety their utmost priority to ensure kids do not suffer mower-related injuries.
how to operate it, and kids should always wear eye protection and close-toed shoes when mowing. In addition, parents should never allow children to ride as passengers while mowing the lawn.
Mower-related injuries are preventable if parents emphasize safety. The following are some tips, courtesy of the AAP, that parents can follow to ensure their kids do not become one of the
thousands of children who suer mower-related injuries in a given year. • Only use a mower with a control that stops the mower blade from moving if the handle
is let go. • Keep children out of the yard while mowing. Mower blades can shoot rocks, sticks or other common yard debris out in all directions, and these trajectories put kids at risk of injuries to their eyes and other parts of their bodies. • Scour the yard for toys before mowing. Toys left in the yard can become trajectories if not removed prior to mowing, and chipped toys with sharp edges can pose a threat to kids even after the grass has been cut. • Exercise caution if going in reverse. The AAP advises against pulling a mower backward or shifting into reverse unless absolutely necessary. If you must do so, look behind you to make sure no kids are trailing you or are nearby. • Only mow when there is adequate daylight. • Periodically inspect your mower. Periodic inspections of your mower can help you make sure guards, shields, switches and other safety devices are in proper working order.
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Warm weather beckons many people outdoors. Perhaps no group of people like being out in the warm sun more than children. Children should be encouraged to spend time outdoors when the weather allows, as physical activity is one of the hallmarks of a healthy lifestyle. But parents must exercise caution when kids are playing in the yard, especially when the grass is being mowed. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, more than 9,000 children in the United States go to the emergency room for lawn mower-related injuries every year. Of the 800 children who are run over by mowers each year, 600 ultimately require amputations. Many mower-related injuries occur when children who are too young and/or too weak to operate a mower are asked to do so. The AAP recommends that only children age 12 and older operate push mowers, while riding mowers should only be used by kids 16 and older. No child should use a mower without first being taught
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10 - Mountain Times Publications
HOME AND FARM
Wednesday, April 15-16, 2020
7 things to consider when buying a shed Backyard sheds can be useful assets. Sheds can create storage space in the garage, basement or other areas of the house that have become gathering spots for gear typically used outdoors. Sheds are ideal for housing mowers, tools and even poolcare equipment. But they can be put to other uses as well, such as being key spots to engage in hobbies or even as a child’s clubhouse. Various factors should be considered before building or buying a shed. A storage shed can be a significant investment. Once placed, sheds may remain in their dedicated spots for years to come. That means careful thought should go into the planning process. 1. Check your local building codes first. Before you accumulate building materials or order a shed, be sure to know the ins and outs of shed codes. The codes may impact the shed’s placement, construction, the materials used, size, and numerous other factors. It’s much easier to amend plans beforehand than to face the hassle and expense after learning you did things incorrectly. 2. Choose placement wisely. Spend several days assessing the yard and thinking
Sheds can be an asset and improve storage capability in the backyard.
about the uses for the shed. If you plan to store pool floats and chemicals inside of the shed, it should be located close enough
to the pool to be convenient. Look at the lay of the land. If there is a soggy patch of land that can turn swampy under the shed’s foundation, that is a poor location choice. If you need access to electricity, placing it far away from the house could
necessitate running expensive wiring. 3. Consider the design. Just because a shed is for storage doesn’t mean aesthetics should be overlooked. Choose a shed style that complements your home. You may also want to match certain architectural features, like arched doorways or dormers. Design also may relate to practicality. For instance, storing a riding mower inside may necessitate dual doors that open widely. 4. Invest in quality materials. Spending a little more and using quality materials can ensure it lasts long enough to be cost-effective. The right materials will be resistant to splitting, cracking, decay and insect damage. 5. Prepare the site well. A proper foundation for the shed is almost as important as the shed itself. You cannot just drop the shed on the lawn and leave it, as the shed can sink or structural issues may arise if it is placed on a weak base. 6. Blend into the environment. Surround the shed with shrubs or plants so that it blends into the yard and complements the space. 7. Deck out the interior. Use every storage tool at your disposal to maximize floor, wall and even rafter space for storage. Plan where items will be kept and customize the storage options around those locations.
Create a safe, tick-free zone in your yard Despite their diminutive stature, ticks are a big concern for people, particularly those with pets. As the weather warms, ticks are out looking for a host to climb on and get a blood meal. Ticks are a significant concern because they can be infected with bacteria, viruses or parasites, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tularemia, and babesiosis are just a few of the many tickborne diseases. These pathogens can be passed to humans and pets via the bite of infected ticks. In 2018, at least one variety of disease-transmitting tick had been found in all of the lower 48 states, according to the CDC. In addition, researchers at Cornell University identified 26 species of ticks along the East Coast alone. Preventing tick bites has never been more important. The process starts right in one’s own backyard. According to Consumer Reports and the New York State Integrated Pest Management Program, controlling wildlife that enters one’s yard can help keep tick num-
bers down. Open access means animals can enter and so can ticks. Fencing and pest management solutions may help. Other ideas include landscaping techniques that can reduce tick populations: • Remove leaf litter from the yard. • Clear tall grasses and brush around homes and at the edges of the lawn. Mow regularly to keep the lawn short. • Create a barrier between wooded areas and the yard if it abuts a forested area. According to Consumer Reports, a threefoot-wide path of wood chips or gravel can prevent tick migration by creating a physical barrier that’s dry and sometimes too hot for ticks to tolerate. Such a barrier also serves as a visual reminder to anyone in your household to be especially careful if they step beyond the perimeter. • Bag grass clippings, which can serve as habitats for ticks. • Remove old furniture, trash and other debris that can give ticks places to hide. • Remember to use a tick-repellent product when venturing into wooded areas. Flea and tick products also are available for pets; consult with a vet.
HOME AND FARM
Wednesday, April 15-16, 2020
Mountain Times Publications -
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Exterior renovations that can improve home value Renovating a home to improve its value can be a smart investment. Interior improvements, such as updating kitchens and baths, offer good return on investment, but there are plenty of exterior renovations that can add value to a home and give it that coveted “wow” factor. Landscaping Abundant and well-planned landscaping can instantly boost curb appeal. According to the landscaping company Lawn Starter, 71 percent of prospective home buyers say a home’s curb appeal is an important factor in their buying decisions. As buyers use the internet to look for their dream homes, there’s no denying a beautifully landscaped, nicely photographed property can entice buyers to click and read more about a house. Address insects and minor repairs Improving home value may come down to fixing areas of
the home that can negatively affect its appeal to buyers. Hire an inspector to look at key components of the house and recommend what needs to be fixed. This way it is discovered before home buyers come in and do their own inspections. Termite infestations, deteriorating roofs and hidden water leaks are some things that might need fixing. Improve the entryway The front door is the focal point of a home’s exterior. Invest in a new door or paint it a striking color to add appeal. Remodeling magazine’s “Cost vs. Value Report 2019” indicates changing an entry door to a steel replacement can offer 74.9 percent ROI. Such a door provides visual appeal and added security — things buyers look for. In addition to the front door, make sure that the entryway has a level walkway, steps that are in good repair, accents that are free from rust or tarnish, and decorative plants.
Repaint (or reside) the exterior A fresh coat of paint or new (or cleaned) siding can instantly give homes a facelift. Neutral, warm and inviting colors tend to have the widest appeal. Adding manufactured stone veneer to the home can offer a 94.9 percent ROI, says Remodeling. And after doing the front door and siding, investing in a garage door replacement offers the highest ROI of all exterior projects listed on the “Cost vs. Value Report 2019.” This improvement returns 97.5 percent when selling. Outdoor lighting Outdoor lighting can add to the ambiance of a property and serve as a security feature. Utilize different lights, such as a bright light by the entry, uplighting in trees and shrubs for drama, a light-lined path to the door to improve visibility, and motion-detection lights to improve the security of the property.
Essentials for a bathroom remodel What began as a utilitarian space for personal sanitation has, in modern times, transformed into one of the most coveted rooms in the house. Bathrooms have become a place to relax and unwind, and new bathrooms are on the tops of many homeowners’ wishlists. Bathrooms can be as lavish as budgets allow. Wish lists can include everything from luxurious soaking tubs to rainfall showerheads to chaise lounges to televisions or home entertainment systems contained in the space. Those contemplating their own bathroom renovations may draw inspiration from the following features. • Hot water recirculation system: Few things can be as disappointing as desiring a hot bath or shower only to find that the hot water tank has been drained. The home remodeling company Normandy Remodeling says that water recirculation systems provide on-demand hot water. In such systems, hot water may continuously run through the pipes or there may be a pump underneath a sink. Either way, one needn’t wait for the water to warm up any longer. • Double undermount sinks: Bathroom time is at a premium, especially when people must prepare and leave the house together. Rather than jockeying for position around a single sink, dual sinks enable more breathing room and time efficiency. Undermount sinks are easy to clean because there is no lip around where the sink meets the vanity, preventing the accumulation of grime and gunk. • Glass-free shower: Soap scum and water deposits can form on shower doors, even for homeowners who are diligent with cleaning. A sizable shower prevents water spray
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and affords the ability to forgo glass doors or curtains, thereby cutting down on cleaning and making the room feel more modern. • Multihead shower: When redoing the shower, account for various shower heads so that the water can cascade across the body more completely. This provides a spa experience at home. • Touchless faucets and soap dispensers: These aren’t just for public bathrooms anymore. Touchless faucets and
dispensers are more sanitary and convenient. • Separate toilet room: A shared bath almost necessitates this type of set-up. The toilet is housed inside its own small space and closed away from the rest of the bathroom. It’s more private and convenient this way. • Heated flooring: You need not worry about stepping out of a warm shower onto a cold floor when heated flooring is part of the equation. This option is available in various flooring materials as well.
12 - Mountain Times Publications
HOME AND FARM
Wednesday, April 15-16, 2020