House & Home 2024

home HOUSE AND

Spring is the time that many homeowners take action on that home improvement project or new construction they have planned. In this special section, we will showcase professional home building, home improvement services and ideas to make one’s home safer, more efficient and beautiful.

hiring A CONTRACTOR

C ontractors perform important work for millions of homeowners every day.

Home improvement projects are complicated undertakings, and the experience of skilled contractors can ensure jobs are completed on time and within homeowners’ budgets.

Homeowners have undoubtedly heard horror stories from neighbors about projects that have gone awry. Projects can go sideways for a number of reasons, but a skilled contractor can help homeowners navigate such situations success-

fully. That underscores how important it can be to find the right professional for the job. The following are some tips homeowners can consider as they look to hire a contractor.

• Identify which professional you need. Some contractors are of the jack-of-alltrades variety, but many specialize in a particular line of work. It’s important that homeowners identify which type of contractor they should work with prior to starting a project. This requires homeowners to define the goal of the project (i.e., new wood floor installation), which can serve as a spring-

board into finding the right type of contractor.

• Prioritize building safety. Safety should be the utmost priority for homeowners and contractors alike. Prior to hiring a contractor, homeowners should identify any safety restrictions that might be enforced by local governments and take note of all the permits necessary to get a job done. Homeowners can then discuss those restrictions and permits as they interview contractors. Projects that do not adhere to code are illegal and can compromise homeowners’ ability to sell their homes in the future. So it’s vital to work with contractors

Home renovation projects were high on homeowners’ priority lists during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Throughout much of 2020, people across the globe were forced to spend much of their time at home as leaders and governments across the globe sought to prevent the spread of COVID-19. More time at home compelled millions of homeowners to invest more in their properties, thus sparking a renovation boom.

By early 2023, the renovation boom that marked the initial days of the pandemic appeared to have burst. In May 2023, the popular home improvement retailer Home Depot reported its sales had fallen by 4.5% in the first quarter of the year and that its income had fallen by more than 6 percent from the same period a year earlier. That marked the end of what Home Depot CEO Ted Decker characterized as “a three-year period of unprecedented growth” in the home improvement sector.

Home Depot’s decline in sales was attributed to a number of factors, including a pivot among homeowners from large projects to smaller renovations. Inflation and the looming threat of a recession have led many homeowners to emphasize smaller projects. With that in mind, the following are some small renovations that can have a big impact.

• Storage addition: Regardless of where

storage is added, be it the kitchen or a home office or a laundry room, extra space to keep items out of view can dramatically alter the look of a home. Unused kitchen walls can be transformed with some inexpensive, easily hanged shelves, while some laundry pedestals with storage drawers can help keep washrooms clear of clutter.

•Polish floors: Elbow grease might be the biggest expenditure when cleaning hardwood floors. The wood flooring experts at Bona® advise homeowners to polish their floors once every two to four months depending on how much foot traffic the floors get. A fresh polishing can make floors look brand new and ensures dirt and dust are not hanging around as uninvited houseguests.

• Paint: Painting is another inexpensive option for budget-conscious homeowners who want to update their homes. There’s no shortage of places in a home, both inside and out, where a fresh coat of paint can make a statement with-

who are familiar with local codes and aware of which permits are necessary to ensure a project can go forward.

• Insist on written estimates. Handshake agreements offer no protection to homeowners or contractors, so estimates indicating what will be done and how much the project will cost should be provided. Homeowners should insist on receiving written estimates and interpret an unwillingness to provide one as a significant red flag.

• Know your rights. Laws vary by region, but

in general homeowners have a right to a written contract and contractors are obligated to provide a copy of that contract signed by both parties. That contract must be provided prior to the start of the project. The contract should provide a detailed account of the work that will be done, as well as a timeline indicating important dates that components of the project will begin and be completed. The contract also should detail materials and who is providing them. Details regarding payments, guarantees and warranties also should be cited.

• Do not pay in cash. Some contractors may suggest that the project will cost less if they’re paid in cash. However, home improvements should never be cash transactions. Cash does not indicate proof of payment, which can be problematic if a dispute arises.

Contractors help homeowners turn dream projects into reality. Homeowners can employ various strategies to ensure they find the right professional for their home improvement project.

local HOME DECOR

ON A BUDGET

If you have remodeled a home, bought a home or are building a new home, odds are you will be looking for furniture and decor.

There are several local businesses that allow you to do that on a budget. Three local examples of places to find quality decor at affordable prices are Roscoe’s Treasures Antique, Vintage and Unique Mall, DJ’s Antiques and Collectibles and Grandma’s Blessings.

ROSCOE’S TREASURES is located in downtown Newport at 255 East Main Street. It has more than 75

ROSCOE’S TREASURES

vendors who offer a variety of items ranging from original paintings and framed prints to dishware, furniture, vases and household items. There are table linens, napkins, table runners, curtains, dolls and collectibles. The store is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Owner Dee Webber said the store’s vendors work hard to bring in a variety of items, so there is

something for everyone. The store can be reached at (423) 237-6377.

DJ’S ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES is owned and operated by Donna Jones who has more than 40 years of experience in the antiques business. Located at 218 US-25 E #32 in White Pine near Walters Bridge, the building is crammed with furniture, glassware, lamps, artwork, quilts, linens and more.

Jones takes pride in making quality products affordable, and she said she is always in the mood to negotiate prices with customers. If someone has a special request, they can contact her and she will track down just what they are looking for.

DJ’s is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can contact the store at (865) 674-7196.

GRANDMA’S BLESSINGS is a thrift store located in Del Rio at 3125 Highway 25-70 East.

The store has everything from clothing and toys to furniture, household items such as pots and pans and dishes to linens, lamps and wall art. Twoweek layaway is available and no down payment is required.

Hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hours are subject to change, so call ahead to (423) 608-0973 to make sure the store is open.

Owner Tina Reece said she has a variety of items available and is always adding to the inventory that she has in stock.

TRADITIONAL HOME HALLMARKS

Ahome can say a lot about its inhabitants.

Perhaps that’s one reason why renters and homeowners alike spend so much time and expend so much effort on the various design components of their homes.

Home styles are as diverse as the people who live in the homes. Each design style has its proponents, but traditional style homes are among the most enduring designs. The popularity of traditional style homes has endured for centuries.

And though homes built in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries might be vastly different from those constructed in the 1600s and 1700s, they still include characteristics of homes one might have found back in colonial times. But it’s also important to note that the notion of “traditional” has changed, and some may now see homes built more than 50 years ago as traditional. That’s an

important distinction to keep in mind when working with contractors and interior designers, as homeowners who prefer traditional styles should not hesitate to share how they define that style.

As individuals shop around for new homes or seek inspiration before redesigning their existing spaces, they can consider these hallmarks of traditional-style homes.

• Color: According to the home renovation experts at HGTV, traditional-style homes are not typically associated with the muted color palettes common to more modern design schemes. Traditional styles utilize color throughout the home, and each color of the rainbow can be utilized if individuals so desire. Though neutral colors are found in traditionalstyle homes, Architectural Digest notes they are typically accompanied with pops of bold colors in jewel tones.

• Classic decor: It might be an oversimplification to suggest modern and traditional

are at opposite ends of the design spectrum, but traditional-style homes lean on classical decor like chandeliers and bookcases, each of which is unlikely to be found in a modern home.

• Architectural details: Certain architectural details also are commonly found in traditional-style homes. Wainscoting and crown molding, which harken many back to the style’s centuries-old roots, are some hallmarks of the traditional style.

• Defined spaces: Open concept floor plans have become very popular in recent years, but traditional-style homes do not feature open floor plans. Living rooms and dining rooms (which are used exclusively as dining rooms) are defined spaces in traditional-style homes, which also tend to have all bedrooms on the second floor or higher.

The traditional design style has endured for centuries. That serves as a testament to the appeal of a style that will seemingly always have a place to call home.

DJ’S ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES

DEE WEBBER AT ROSCOE’S TREASURES

TINA REECE AT GRANDMA’S BLESSINGS

How to recognize when it’s time to REPLACE YOUR WINDOWS

Windows are a major component of a home.

Window installation professionals will tell homeowners that the average lifespan of residential windows is between 15 and 30 years. Most well-maintained products can last 20 years, so homeowners who have windows approaching that age may want to schedule a window assessment and possible replacement.

Replacing windows is a job that requires advanced skill, and this is not a do-ityourself project. There are many qualified professional window installation companies that will work with homeowners to measure, order and install windows that will fit with the style of a home and local weather, all while providing features the homeowner desires.

For those wondering when to replace windows, Pella and Renewal by Andersen, two of the premiere window manufacturers, offer these guidelines.

present in the home

• Difficulty opening and closing windows A window that does not operate as it should can aggravate homeowners.

If windows are sticking shut or cannot be securely closed, it’s probably time for something new.

• There’s apparent window damage. Accidents happen, and if a rock is kicked up from a lawnmower and cracks a window or if spring baseball practice has gone awry with an errant throw, windows may require replacement.

• Drafts in the window are common. If heating and cooling systems are working overtime, drafty, poorly insulated windows could be to blame. Various agencies can perform energy efficiency tests in a home. Windows that are determined to be the weak spots should be replaced.

• Dated windows are

Older windows may pose safety hazards, especially those in older homes. A larger window may be needed to comply with fire safety codes allowing for window egress. Dated windows also may simply look “old” and compromise the

315 E. Main Street Newport, TN 37821 (423) 623-6161

www.thefisherinsurance.com

RETIREES: Is it time to downsize, even in this

real estate MARKET?

In retirement, you might find that rising prices combined with a fixed income make you feel a little squeezed.

HernandezAriano notes that his clients in southeast Texas are bothered by high home insurance premiums due to severe weather events, plus high property taxes. “A lot of insurance companies are dropping coverage on the southeast side of Texas,” he says.

If downsizing is a question of money, consider all your housing costs. Weigh the mortgage, property taxes and insurance, plus basic bills like electricity and water services for your current and future homes.

One client in Houston did the math and moved 90 minutes away, where they got a cheaper home and dropped their homeowners insurance by 60%. “Property taxes also went down since they weren’t in a highly competitive school district,” HernandezAriano says. “They still spent more on gas and water and had to pay for relocation expenses, but overall, they saved monthly.”

YOU’RE IN A PRICEY AREA

If you live in an expensive city, you have a better chance of selling your home and finding something cheaper. “When you’re in a lower-cost area, it’s going to be difficult to find something even (more) lower cost,” says David Demming, a CFP in Aurora, Ohio. Just do some looking before you leap. Inventory is low in many places, and competition is steep for a smaller home with upgrades.

To save money overall, the value of the home you’re purchasing should be at least 20% less than the house that you’re selling, says Diane Pearson, a CFP in Wexford, Pennsylvania.

YOU CAN’T LIVE THERE SAFELY ANYMORE

Your health may require you to find a new home with fewer stairs, a firstfloor primary bedroom or an accessible bathroom.

Michael Maye, a CFP in Gillette, New Jersey, notes that his clients who’ve seen parents go through long-term care or health issues are more likely to consider future mobility when planning their retirement. “Recently, I proactively worked with a couple and they knew that they didn’t want to age in place, because they have a bigger house,” he says.

They wanted to buy into a continuing care retirement community, where they could take advantage of graduated levels of care as they needed it. “They could stay in their house, but they don’t plan to,” Maye says.

YOU WANT TO BE CLOSER TO FAMILY

While being closer to children or aging parents is a good reason to downsize, don’t count on this being the cheaper option, especially if you’re moving into a hotter market.

Consider one of Demming’s clients, who moved from one part of Ohio to another part of the state. “It cost her $150,000 more to move there, to get a house that was acceptable to her,” Demming said.

Even with the higher cost, Demming says, it was worth it to be closer to her

children and grandchildren — and her

to be near family, you shouldn’t count

new city is booming. “There is no looking back,” Demming says. “Her new home has appreciated quite a bit since moving.”

YOU’RE PREPARED TO CREATE A NEW SUPPORT NETWORK

If downsizing means a new city, keep in mind that you may have to rebuild your community. Even if you’re moving

on them to be your activities hub. “Are you a social person who’s going to be able to get out and about and make your own way?” Maye says.

You’ll need to make new friends, find new medical professionals, find a new gym. “Those are the trade-offs,” Maye says. “None of them are deal breakers, but I think people should really think about all these other things.”

kitchen CABINETS

The kitchen is a busy room in many homes.

That popularity likely has something to do with why so many homeowners spend sizable sums renovating their kitchens.

According to highlights from the 2022 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, the median spend on major kitchen remodels grew by 14 percent from the previous year, and minor remodels increased by 25 percent.

Spurred on by increased time spent at home during the pandemic, the main impetus for kitchen remodels according to the study was that homeowners wanted to make these improvements all along and finally had the time and means to do so.

There are many aspects of a kitchen that homeowners can change. Houzz found 94 percent of renovators either fully or partially replaced cabinets in their improvement plans. Cabinets are a major component of kitchen layouts. Cabinets help

to establish the aesthetic of a kitchen and serve a useful function, providing necessary storage space to ensure the room does not appear cluttered. Homeowners have different options when it comes to cabinet renovations, and they may need to decide if they need to replace or reface their cabinets.

REPLACEMENT

Cabinet replacement involves removing all of the existing cabinets

before new cabinets are leveled and installed.

According to the home improvement resource

The Spruce, homeowners can expect to pay between $13,000 and $30,000 for contractor grade cabinets. Cabinet replacement is a good idea when homeowners want to add more cabinet space or create a new layout in the room.

REFACING

Cabinet refacing is less messy and less disruptive

replacement. All cabinets remain the same size and in the same location.

typically

the same. The Spruce says

refacing can be 30 to 50 percent cheaper than a replacement.

people call in professionals to change their cabinets. Cabinet replacement can be a do-it-yourself job, but it involves measuring and ensuring everything fits and is leveled appropriately. Homeowners who choose to reface their cabinets themselves may opt to paint or restain. Wood veneer or a new door and drawer panel installation can be complicated and is best left to qualified contractors.

M ortgage interest rates have been headlining financial news segments for several years running.

Much of that news has been met with less than open arms, as rates have risen dramatically in recent years, an increase that is related to the ripple effect of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mortgage interest rates did not immediately spike after the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic in March 2020. In fact, data from the lender Freddie Mac indicates mortgage rates were still well below 4 %on January 1, 2022. However, those rates

hovered around 7% by the end of that year, and were still around that level at the start of 2024. With such high interest rates, it’s understandable if prospective home buyers feel helpless. However, there’s much buyers can do to help themselves as they seek to secure the lowest mortgage interest rate possible.

• Read your credit report and improve your score, if necessary. Many prospective home buyers save up for years in anticipation of the day when they will purchase their own home. During this period, buyers can read their credit reports and address any discrepancies while taking steps to improve their credit scores. Lenders consider a

host of variables to determine an applicant’s credit worthiness, and credit history and credit scores bear significant influence. The higher an applicant’s credit score, the more favorable mortgage rate he or she is likely to get.

• Take control of your debt-to-income ratio. Debt-to-income (DTI) ratio refers to what you owe in relation to how much you earn. The lower your DTI, the better you look to lenders.

According to Bankrate, lenders typically want to avoid issuing mortgages to individuals if the monthly payment exceeds 28% of their gross monthly income, and people who may be near that threshold for a given home may be denied a mortgage if their DTI is high. Prospective home buyers currently carrying significant debt, including consumer debt like credit cards and/or student loan debts, should make a concerted effort to

pay down that debt prior to applying for a mortgage. Prioritize paying off consumer debt before applying for a mortgage.

• Maintain a strong employment record. Steady employment and consistent earnings make mortgage applicants more attractive in the eyes of lenders. If you are currently shopping for a home or about to make an offer, now might not be the best time to switch jobs. Self-employed individuals and freelancers working multiple jobs can still qualify for a good mortgage rate, but they may need to provide more extensive documentation that indicates their earnings going back several years. Individuals who have been working full-

time for the same company for years may only need to provide W-2 forms from the two most recent tax years.

• Shop around for rates. Rates may not fluctuate much between lenders, but it’s still worth shopping around for mortgage rates. A study from Freddie Mac found that the benefits of shopping around for a mortgage rate were especially notable in 2022 compared to the decade prior, saving borrowers who took the time to shop for rates substantial sums of money.

Mortgage rates remain high compared to a half decade ago, but prospective home buyers can take steps to increase their chances of qualifying for a favorable rate.

HOW TO PICK THE

right TREES

for your property

Trees benefit a landscape by serving both aesthetic and utilitarian functions.

A home surrounded by healthy green trees can be a sight to behold, and those same trees can benefit surrounding plants and wildlife at the same time.

As appealing as trees are, not all trees and landscapes make for the perfect match.

The Arbor Day Foundation notes the importance of planning when designing a landscape. Planning ensures the trees homeowners ultimately choose for their properties will grow well in the soil and moisture present in their yards.

Careful consideration of a handful of variables can help homeowners determine which trees will make the best fit for their properties.

• HEIGHT: Homeowners must consider the projected height of a tree before planting it. Avoid trees that will bump into anything when fully grown, as that can adversely affect surrounding greenery and pose a safety hazard. The ADF’s tree sizing guide can be accessed at www.arborday.org/trees/ rightTreeAndPlace/size.cfm and serves as an invaluable resource for homeowners who want to plant new trees around their properties.

• CANOPY SPREAD:

Trees grow out as well as up, so it’s important to consider their potential width at maturity as well. The ADF sizing guide can help homeowners get an idea of how wide a tree is likely to be at maturity. Trees that spread out quite a bit don’t necessarily need to be avoided, but it’s important that they’re planted far enough apart so they don’t adversely affect surrounding plants. In addition, wide trees that are planted too close together can make the landscape appear crowded,

taking something away from its aesthetic appeal.

• GROWTH RATE:

Growth rate is an important variable because it can affect how quickly homeowners will see changes in their landscapes. Homeowners who want to plant for privacy can consider trees with quick growth rates or purchase more mature trees that are already near full growth. Those who are not in need of instant transformation can try trees with slower growth rates, which the ADF notes typically live longer than fast-growing species.

• REQUIREMENTS: Different trees require different amounts of sun and moisture and different soil components to thrive. Homeowners can have their soil tested to determine which trees will thrive in it. Local garden centers can be a great resource for homeowners who want insight as to which trees will thrive in their local climates.

Trees serve many functions on a property. Choosing the right trees for a landscape requires careful consideration of a host of variables.

Factors that make the current REAL ESTATE MARKET UNIQUE

Realtors and real estate agents have helped millions of people find homes over the years.

Such real estate professionals wear many hats, not only helping people buy and sell homes, but also serving as sounding boards and calming influences when unforeseen, and sometimes frustrating, issues arise during the process of buying and selling a home.

The value of working with a trusted real estate professional is even greater in a fast-paced market when offers must be made, and are often accepted, quickly. In such situations, an experienced professional can advocate for their clients, offer advice and even ease concerns buyers and sellers may have about a given transaction. Such scenarios have played out countless times in recent years, which has been a particularly unique period in real estate. Numerous variables have combined to make the real estate market more challenging in recent years, and those factors underscore how valuable it can be for buyers and sellers to have an experienced professional in their corner.

• LOW INVENTORY: Low inventory is among the more noticeable characteristics of the current real estate market. Though inventory has increased since January 2022, when the National Association of Realtors reported that the supply of homes for

sale represented a supply of just 1.6 months, marking a record low, it remained low enough at the start of 2024 (around 3.5 months) for industry professionals to characterize the market as unbalanced. According to the online financial resource Bankrate, a five- or six-month supply of homes is usually needed to declare a balanced market.

Projections indicate an anticipated increase in single-family home construction, which should lead to greater inventory in the coming months and years.

• HIGH PRICES: Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development indicates the median sales prices of houses sold in the United States in the fourth quarter of 2022 was $479,500.

Median sales prices

dropped considerably in 2023 (the average sale price in the third quarter of 2023 in the U.S. was $431,000), but buyers can still expect to pay considerably more for a home in 2024 than they likely would have in the first quarter of 2019, when median sales prices were $313,000 in the U.S.

• QUICK-MOVING:

A home is the most expensive purchase many people will ever make, which undoubtedly adds a little stress to the process of buying a home. That stress may be exacerbated by how quickly homes are selling in the current market.

Estimates vary depending on the source, but the NAR reported that homes sold in October 2023 spent an average of just 23 days on the market. By comparison, the online real estate listing service Zillow notes the average number of days

replacing GUTTERS

Certain home renovation projects are more glamorous than others.

A remodeled kitchen is sure to garner its share of “oohs and aahs,” while a newly paved driveway is much less likely to dazzle guests.

A gutter replacement is another job that might not have the wow factor. But fully functioning gutters are a must and can help to prevent potentially expensive roof damage. Gutters rarely draw attention, but homeowners can keep an eye out for signs that indicate gutters need to be replaced.

SIGNS GUTTERS SHOULD BE REPLACED

Various signs indicate it’s time to replace existing gutters. Homeowners should act promptly if any of the following signs arise, as poorly functioning gutters can make it hard for water to get into the downspouts, ultimately pushing it backward and likely underneath roof shingles, where the result can be costly water damage.

• Peeling paint

• Cracks

• Pooling water in the gutter

• Mildew in the gutter, which can sometimes be seen even from the ground

• Water damage: Water damage on the gutter can be limited to certain spots and will be noticeable on the underside of the gutter

• Soffit damage

• Sagging gutters

• Detached gutters, which can be detached from other pieces or the house

• Rust WHO SHOULD REPLACE GUTTERS?

Many home improvements can be completed successfully by skilled do-it-yourselfers, but a gutter replacement is best left to the professionals.

Homeowners who live in single-story homes may be able to replace gutters on their own, but the issues that can arise when gutters are not functioning at optimal capacity make this a job best suited to professionals, even in residences without high roofs.

Some gutters may be under a manufacturer’s warranty, so homeowners can check to see if their gutters qualify for a free upgrade. Experience is one of the best reasons to work with a professional gutter installation team. Experienced professionals can identify which gutters are the best fit based on a host of factors, including the pitch of the roof, local conditions and the size of the house. In addition, gutter installation requires the use of various

tools that many DIYers may not have on hand, which can cut into the cost savings of doing the project yourself.

Homeowners also should not underestimate the challenges of working on ladders that are high up off the ground. Professionals are accustomed to such challenges, while DIYers may not be comfortable or used to climbing ladders with materials and tools in hand.

A gutter replacement is a worthwhile investment that can ensure rain water efficiently and effectively runs through gutters and away from the roof. Leaving this task to the professionals can ensure the job is done right.

Benefits of ENERGY-EFFICIENT HOMES

Consumer efforts to be more eco-conscious are more and more noticeable.

For proof of that, one need look no further than the increase in vehicle charging stations. Such stations are more accessible than ever and illustrate that consumer preference is increasingly leaning toward products that leave as small a carbon footprint as possible.

Another indicator of a growing interest in eco-friendly products is the popularity in energyefficient homes. In fact, a recent survey from the National Association of Home Builders found that energy-efficient features are among the most soughtafter “musthaves” among homebuyers. Among those surveyed, 83% desired Energy Star-rated windows, 81% wanted Energy Star-rated appliances and 80% preferred energy-efficient lighting.

Though eco-conscious sensibilities compel millions of homeowners to make their homes more energy-efficient, that’s not the only reason to upgrade your home. The following are a handful of the many benefits of energy-efficient homes.

energy-efficient homes. They’re also willing to pay more for such homes.

Research from the mortgage lender Freddie Mac found that homes with energy-efficient ratings sold for nearly 3 percent more on average than homes without such ratings.

• Live healthier:

Homeowners’ fasciation with a lush, green lawn is something that has developed over time and is still “growing” strong.

According to a survey conducted on behalf of the National Association of Landscape Professionals, 81% of all Americans had lawns and 79% said a lawn is an important feature when buying or renting a property.

Many people are taking inventory of their landscapes and deciding if a lawn is a priority, even going so far as to

• Save money: According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, inflation has led to an overall 6.5%increase in prices. But that increase was dwarfed by the cost of electricity, which increased by 14.3%. Energy-efficient appliances can help homeowners overcome that spike, as the Department of Energy indicates upgrading to such products can help homeowners reduce their energy costs by as much as 30%.

• Improve resale value: As the NAHB survey indicates, modern homebuyers want

The benefits of energy-efficient homes aren’t just economic, though health-related benefits certainly produce an economic incentive as well. According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, insulation and air sealing protect indi-

viduals from heat waves and other ripple effects of climate change. The ACEEE notes that weatherization can improve indoor air quality and comfort, a notable benefit for asthma sufferers and seniors. In fact, the ACEEE estimates that integrating energy efficiency programs in homes could reduce seniors’ risk for falls in their homes, potentially saving $2 billion in fallrelated health care costs over the next decade, and improve asthma outcomes, which could reduce health care costs by as much as half a billion dollars. Energy-efficient products and practices pay numerous dividends, making them a worthy expenditure for any homeowners looking to upgrade their homes.

How to keep your lawn LOOKING GREEN

reinvent their spaces with lawn alternatives.

Still, there are ways to keep properties green no matter which route is taken. Here’s a look at some environmentally friendly ways to address a landscape.

IRRIGATE FROM BELOW

There are many ways to water landscapes, but homeowners may want to take their cues from the commercial farming industry. Drip irrigation systems utilize a network of valves, pipes and tubing close to the roots of plants or under the soil. Such systems are more efficient than surface irrigation options, helping to save water and nutrients in the soil.

WATER EARLY

Scotts Lawn Care suggests watering a lawn in the morning before 10 a.m. when it is cooler and winds tend to be calmer. This ensures water can be absorbed into the soil and grass roots before evaporation occurs. Watering midday may cause the water droplets on the lawn blades to heat up and actually scorch the lawn.

PLANT A NEW GRASS TYPE

Homeowners can experiment with ecofriendly grass seed blends that mix native grasses and may not require as much water nor ideal growing conditions.

UTILIZE GREEN

ALTERNATIVES

Rather than focusing solely on grass, some homeowners are turning to alternatives like clover and even moss, particularly if their landscapes do not have the most pristine growing conditions. This may reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and herbicides. The result is still a green, inviting yard.

WATCH THE LAWN HEIGHT

Mowing too frequently or at too low a height may compromise the lawn’s ability to thrive. Grass cut to the proper height develops a deep root system to better locate water and nutrients in the soil. That means

homeowners may not have to water as much or as frequently. Taller lawns also shade the soil and the roots, reducing some evaporation.

COMPOST

Leave the clippings on the lawn to break down and further feed nutrients to the lawn, helping it look greener and thrive. Furthermore, rely on supplementation with compost to rein-

force the nutrient profile in the soil. The National Resources Defense Council says composting is the natural process of recycling organic matter, such as leaves and food scraps, into a valuable fertilizer. It doesn’t take much to nurture compost in a yard.

Green landscapes are possible with a few tips that help conserve water and maximize natural resources.

outdoor LIVING

A l fresco entertaining has taken off in recent years.

It’s much more common today to find homeowners who want to extend living spaces to the outdoors in meaningful ways that go beyond a few lawn chairs and a stand-alone grill. Dream backyard living rooms mirror similar spaces indoors and contain features like cozy corners, lush furniture and televisions or movie projectors. Plus, they often abut additional outdoor luxuries like fully functional kitchens. Homeowners have various options when designing outdoor living spaces. Above all else, spaces should be created with the goal of encouraging people to get together. Here are some ideas.

POOLSIDE RETREAT

Homeowners with pools and other

A

guide

Homeowners recognize that upgrades can improve the functionality and comfort of their homes.

Improving outdoor spaces has proven particularly popular of late. The National Association of Home Builders reports that outdoor living has been propelled to the top of homeowner wish lists. Plus, a recent survey conducted by the New Home Trends Institute found connection to the outdoors/nature and outdoor entertaining ranked high among desired home designs.

One way to make outdoor spaces more accommodating is through the installation of awnings. Many homeowners would like to enhance their homes with awnings but do not know where to begin. Learning about the various types of awnings can help homeowners determine which option best suits their needs.

FIXED AWNINGS

Fixed awnings are stationary on a building’s exterior. While the awnings are generally stable, they can be damaged by snow or wind. It’s key to find an installation expert to make sure the awning is installed correctly so that it can withstand weather and other issues. It’s also important to know that fixed awnings remain in the same position and orientation, so it’s best to know exactly where to place it beforehand.

RETRACTABLE AWNING

Retractable awnings are the most popular type of awnings because they can be extended when necessary to keep a space cool or protected, then rolled or folded up when not in

water features likely want this area to be the star of the entertaining space. Furniture will be more of the lounging variety, with comfortable chaises and spots to catch the sun. If a swim-up bar isn’t possible, a rolling bar cart can be stocked with essentials for cocktails or mocktails for the kids. Furniture near the pool will be exposed to a lot of sun, so look for durable, sun-resistant fabrics.

FIRESIDE NOOK

Gathering around an outdoor fireplace or fire pit is a treat when the weather cools down. Mirror the look of the same setup indoors by arranging outdoor sofas so they flank the fireplace. Add some ottomans or side tables for stowing mulled cider or hot chocolate. A mantel above the fireplace can hold pots of greenery or candles that add to the ambiance.

CONSIDER A CUSTOM

BANQUETTE

Unused corners on a patio or rooftop retreat can utilize a custom-made banquette that provides the functionality of a sofa sectional outdoors. Have a contractor design it to the exact specifications of the area, and add a rug to ground the space.

VARY THE FLOORING

Depending on the entertaining space, a balance of soft grass, pavers or other hardscape will be necessary. Certain areas will need to be hard enough for chairs and other furniture, particularly for those who are including an outdoor dining table in the design.

CREATE SOME PRIVACY

Some homeowners are lucky enough to have natural barriers that offer privacy in their entertaining spaces. When there isn’t enough, tall shrubs, inexpensive bamboo fencing or trellis can provide a blind that makes an outdoor living area more cozy and private. Consider placing tall, potted plants on rolling casters to improve privacy as the need arises. Outdoor living spaces are all the rage, and they can add value and functionality to most any home.

to types of HOME AWNINGS

use. These awnings are advantageous because they can be retracted when bad weather hits to prevent damage.

MOTORIZED RETRACTABLE AWNING

Motorized retractable awnings offer the utmost convenience. Standard retractable offerings require a handle or hand crank to manually extend or fold up the awning. Motorized awnings can be operated with a sensor, remote or even motion trigger. Even though they cost more, they’re a favorite among homeowners.

AREAS OF USE

Awnings can be installed in various locations. Patio awnings are much preferred because of their large coverage area, which typically spans entire patios. Door awnings are installed above the exterior door of an entryway to protect visitors and occupants from precipitation and to improve the home’s look. Window awnings can add additional shade and privacy. There also are side awnings, which are essentially wall-like structures that run across a patio, garden or balcony for wind or sun protection. They’re also utilized to improve privacy.