Fall & Home Improvement Car Care
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Red flags that your bathroom needs a remodel
Homeowners know that the work involved to maintain a home is never done. The end of one project tends to roll into the planning of another, and so it goes for years on end.
Fortunate are the homeowners who get to choose when to begin a renovation project, but it’s far more common that homeowners spot an issue and then realize it’s time to renovate. When it comes to bathrooms, which can be among the more expensive spaces to renovate, homeowners can keep an eye out for various signs suggesting the room needs a remodel.
MOLD AND MILDEW
Mold and mildew are clear indicators that a bathroom may need remodeling. Both pose significant health risks, with the Environmental Protection Agency noting that they can trigger allergic reactions. People sensitive to mold might experience symptoms similar to those caused by outdoor allergens like pollen, including sneezing, a runny nose, red eyes, and skin rashes. Additionally, mold can exacerbate asthma in those who are allergic. Mold thrives in poorly ventilated bathrooms, especially
those lacking proper ventilation or where the fan is malfunctioning. Simply scrubbing away mold won’t solve the problem; addressing the underlying cause is essential to prevent its return.
SMALL SIGNS OF FADING
Stains, peeling paint, cracked paint, and gaps in grout are small signs of fading that indicate a bathroom needs renovation if not a complete remodel. These issues also can serve as warning signs of larger issues, such as water issues and structural problems, so they should not be merely written off as minor problems or eyesores.
RISING WATER BILLS
Some signs a bathroom could use a little TLC are not necessarily confined to the room itself. If water bills are rising significantly and do not align with price increases or an uptick in water consumption, homeowners may have leaking pipes. Such pipes might be beneath a bathroom sink or behind tiled walls. Discoloration on the walls, peeling paint or wallpaper and/or a musty odor may indicate leaks inside a bathroom wall. If coupled with rising water
bills, these signs could be indicative of a significant issue that requires immediate attention.
ISSUES WITH TILES
Cracked or damaged tiles in the shower and bathtub or even on the floor are unsightly and also pose a safety hazard. Cracked floor tiles can lead to slips and falls, which can be especially harmful to older residents. And cracked tiles within the shower and tub area can indicate water problems behind the walls or gen-
eral disrepair. Such issues should be addressed before they escalate into something larger.
A DATED VIBE
Of course, some issues affecting a bathroom are not necessarily health or safety hazards but more an affront to homeowners’ grasp of current styles and trends. If walking into a bathroom unintentionally feels like stepping backward into a bygone era, then it’s probably time to consider a renovation or remodeling job.
A beginner’s guide to fall planting and maintenance
Spring and summer are perhaps the busiest times of year for gardeners. However, fall also is a prime time to tend to gardens.
The tree and bare root retailer Bower & Branch advises that soil temperatures in many regions of the country may still be warm enough to encourage root growth well into the start of winter. Furthermore, fall is often the ideal time to plant, fertilize and keep a garden going or to get a head start on next year’s bounty.
Here are some tips to make the most of the fall gardening season.
• Think about fall annuals and bulb planting. Near the end of September, start planting cool-weatherloving pansies and violas for pops of color as summer flowers fade. Also, it’s a good idea to stock up on bulbs that will bloom in the months to come before they sell out in stores. Wait until the temperatures really cool down before planting them in desired spots for spring sprouts.
• Sow salad seeds. Lettuce, spinach, radishes, and arugula tolerate cooler temperatures. Try new and interesting lettuce varieties and enjoy salads well into the fall season.
• Take inventory of the sun. Positioning a garden carefully means maximizing hours of sunlight, which begin to dwindle in the fall. Experts say gardens grow best in sunny locations that receive six hours of direct sunlight each day. This is where container gardens can be helpful, as they allow gardeners to move plants into spots that will get ample sunlight.
• Fill in landscaping gaps. Some fall plants can add color around the landscape and brighten up homes to add curb appeal. In addition to pansies and violas, asters, kale and chrysanthemums are fall blooms. Keep in mind that mums can come back year after year. So take them out of those flower pots and get them into the ground. They can be enjoyed next year as well, sprouting in early spring and developing leaves and buds through late summer.
• Clean up unwanted growth. Fall is an ideal time to cut back spent vegetable plants and get rid of errant weeds. Rather than bagging leaves, mow them with a grass catcher and then add the mix to a vegetable garden as an excellent soil insulator. The nitrogen and carbon will fertilize the soil, enhancing growing possibilities and limiting weed growth.
The value of mulched leaves
• Propagate plants in the fall. As temperatures gradually begin to cool, start taking cuttings from perennials, gathering seed pods from azaleas and rhododendrons and dividing hardwood cuttings, says the resource Gardening Know How. Consult with a garden center or horticulturist on the proper ways to propagate stems using rooting hormone and other techniques.
• Continue to water plants. Water is essential in the fall and winter as roots can still be growing. Gradually reduce watering duration as plants go dormant.
Fall planting and maintenance can extend gardening season and improve the chances of growing a healthy spring garden.
Homeowners who don’t look forward to dusting o their rakes each fall might be happy to learn that mulching fallen leaves with a mower may be a healthier and less labor intensive way to confront a yard covered in leaves. For 20 years, turfgrass specialists at Michigan State University studied how lawns reacted to having ground up leaves left on the lawn and the results were overwhelmingly positive. Researchers found that tiny pieces of mulched leaves eventually sifted down through the turf and provided the lawn with essential nutrients. Mulched leaves also served to control future weed growth by covering up bare spots between turf plants. Such spots typically provided openings for weed seeds to germinate and ultimately infect lawns. In fact, researchers found that mulching leaves for just three years could produce a nearly 100 percent decrease in dandelion and crabgrass growth. Homeowners with mulching mowers that also have bags can even help their gardens by alternating using the mower with and without the bag on once leaves begin to fall. When mowing with the bag on, mulched leaves can then be used as mulch in landscape beds and vegetable gardens.
Thinking of going electric? Essential tips for first-time EV buyers
Electric vehicles are increasingly visible on roadways around the world. According to BloombergNEF, a strategic research provider covering global commodity markets, in June 2022 there were 20 million plug-in vehicles in use across the globe. That’s an increase from only one million in 2016. As more people are drawn to EVs, drivers can exercise due diligence to learn more about them, particularly if they’re considering buying their first such vehicle.
DIFFERENT VEHICLE TYPES
The term “electric vehicle” encompasses a variety of cars and trucks. The following are some common categories.
• Hybrid electric vehicle: These are the most common type of hybrids. They have two power drives, which include a fuel-based engine and an electric motor with a larger battery. A computer determines when electricity or gas should be used. The system utilizes regenerative braking that ensures the electric battery gets a little recharge every time the driver touches the breaks
• Mild hybrid electric vehicle: MHEVs use a battery and electric motor to increase the efficiency
of an internal combustion engine (ICE). An MHEV does not run solely on electric power, but the ICE can be turned off and the electric motor used while braking, coasting and stopping.
• Battery electric vehicle: BEVs are powered entirely by electricity and will have no ICE or fuel tank. Users charge the battery using an electrical outlet.
• Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle: Like BEVs, PHEVs have an electric motor that is charged by plugging it in. They also have a fuel-based ICE like HEVs. Where they differ is that PHEVs can travel a considerable distance on electric power alone, while HEVs cannot.
DRIVING RANGE
The distance EVs can travel before needing to recharge depends on the type of vehicle. Most EVs have a driving range between 50 and 330 miles. Shoppers should determine the “range-per-charge” for the vehicle to assess if it will fit their driving needs and daily commutes. Drivers who frequently take long road trips may have to assess if a hybrid vehicle is more practical; otherwise, careful planning may be necessary to accommodate charging along the route.
PARKING AND CHARGING SITUATION
Individuals who live in private homes or rentals with access to outlets may be more inclined to invest in EVs. Charging can be done with a standard 120V outlet, but it will increase charging time considerably. Many people opt to have a 240V charger installed in a garage or driveway, which is known as “Level 2 ESVE equipment.” With this type of setup, a charge can be reached in roughly four to 6 six hours, says Valley Clean Energy. Public charging stations utilize a 480V input and can charge many
EV models in about 20 to 30 minutes. Plug-in hybrid vehicles do not typically have fast charging capabilities, however.
REDUCE MAINTENANCE
BEVs require less maintenance than conventional vehicles because there are fewer fluids like oil and transmission fluid to change, and far fewer moving parts. EVs require minimal scheduled maintenance to electrical systems, including the battery and electrical motor. Hybrid vehicles still require the standard maintenance of gaspowered vehicles.
How to prepare a fireplace for the winter
As hours of daylight shorten and fall gives way to winter, thoughts shift from fall foliage to spending time cuddling under warm blankets and being cozy indoors. A fireplace can improve the ambiance of any room and help to create a warm and welcoming gathering spot. Home fireplaces typically are wood-burning or gas. Though maintenance for these fireplaces differs, certain preparatory steps must be taken to prepare a fireplace for winter.
CLEAR THE CLUTTER
Items can accumulate in areas that are not in use, and a fireplace is no exception. Take a few hours to remove any belongings from in front of the fireplace and clean the mantle thoroughly.
HAVE THE CHIMNEY CLEANED
Hire a professional chimney cleaning company to inspect the chimney and clean it thoroughly before winter. According to BobVila.com, a chimney should be cleaned once a year, or after about every 80 fires. The National Fire Protection Association says failure to properly clean chimneys is one of the leading contributors to home fires. That’s due to creosote, a highly flammable residue that builds up in the flue that lines the chimney.
INSPECT
THE INTERIOR
The interior of a wood-burning fireplace is likely lined with fire bricks. Check for cracks and loose joints. Hire a professional mason to make any repairs, as special materials are needed to withstand the heat of fires.
INSTALL A CHIMNEY CAP AND SCREEN
According to Family Handyman, a chimney cap is a protective covering that goes over the top of the chimney. It is made of steel or copper mesh with a cap on top. This protects the chimney from rain and downdrafts and keeps animals and debris from getting into the chimney.
PRUNE OVERHANGING BRANCHES
If there are trees close to the home and the chimney, cut them back, as they can be a fire hazard. Branches and leaves also can restrict the proper draft of the chimney.
ASSESS THE OUTDOOR VENT
Gas fireplaces typically emit exhaust through a vent in the home. Remove any blockages from the vent, including leaves, cobwebs and debris.
CHECK GLASS OR OTHER COVERINGS
The glass or face of the fireplace helps regulate carbon monoxide exposure and protects people from the flames. Be sure the glass covering is intact.
CLEAN CERAMIC LOGS
Gas fireplaces use ceramic logs, rocks or beads that can become
dusty. Clean them prior to use. Dirty ceramic logs can be a fire hazard and produce an unpleasant burning smell.
CHECK THE BLOWER AND PILOT
If the fireplace has an electric blower, clean and dust it so it doesn’t become clogged. Inspect the pilot light for any wear and tear that includes wiring or structural issues.
It takes several steps to prepare fireplaces for cold weather seasons when they’re most likely to be used with frequency.
Key maintenance tips for keeping your older vehicle in top shape
New cars have been costly for quite some time, but those costs have spiked considerably since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. That unprecedented rise has led many motorists to wonder how they can get more mileage out of their existing vehicles and avoid the financial strain of purchasing a new car.
According to data from Kelley Blue Book and Cox Automotive, the average cost of a new car in September 2021 was just over $45,000. That marked a $3,000 increase from June 2021 and a $5,000 increase from the end of 2020.
Drivers who can’t afford to keep up with the rising cost of new vehicles can take these essential steps to keep their existing cars running smoothly for many years to come.
• Take care of the timing belt. Engines may get all the glory, but they cannot run smoothly without a fully functional timing belt. Engines need various components to do their job, and those components must do so at the right time for the engine to run smoothly. Fully functional timing belts help to synchronize movements, but belts must be replaced every so often. Owner’s manuals may note when to replace the timing belt, but they generally must
be replaced every 60,000 to 105,000 miles. That’s infrequent, but drivers can ask their mechanics to keep an eye on their timing belts. One issue many drivers encountered in the early months of the pandemic when people were driving less frequently was timing belts that were failing long before they reached the projected mile markers. That’s because infrequent driving can hasten the demise of the timing belt. This is something for aging drivers who no longer drive a lot to keep in mind.
• Take care of the brakes and associated components. The experts at Popular Mechanics urge drivers of older vehicles to replace their brake fluid every two years. Popular Mechanics also advises drivers whose cars are more than seven years old to replace the rubber brake lines when major brake work is required. • Pay attention to oil levels. The older engines get, the more oil they’re going to burn. So drivers of older vehicles should check their oil levels more often than they would if their vehicles were brand new. This also is a great way to discover leaks before they lead to potentially significant issues.
• Don’t skip maintenance appointments. Even if you’re still
driving less due to the pandemic, it’s best not to skip recommended maintenance intervals. That’s true for drivers of all cars, but especially those whose vehicles are aging. Routine tune-ups and oil changes, which may need to become more frequent the older the vehicle gets, can keep
cars running smoothly and protect the engine over the long haul.
The rising cost of new cars is compelling millions of drivers to keep their cars longer than they might have anticipated. Some simple maintenance measures can help those cars run strong for years to come.
Bright lights, big risks: Combating headlight glare on the road
Headlight glare becomes dangerous when visibility is impaired to a point where the risk of accidents is heightened. Glare is a growing problem for many modern drivers due to the increased use of light emitting diodes in headlights.
Driving at night is challenging because pedestrians, cars and other obstacles are difficult to see after sunset. However, a study from the U.S. Department of Transportation found that 88 percent of drivers noticed LED and HID headlight glare, with more than 30 percent saying the glare is “disturbing.” While LED lights may not actually be brighter, their “cool” spectrum make them appear so. Studies have found that blue and white light tends to hit people’ s eyes harder, especially at night.
In addition, human eyes do not adjust to changes in lighting very quickly, according to Pierre Paul Driving School in New York. The older a person gets, the longer his or her eyes will take to adjust to changes in lighting. In fact, it can take up to seven seconds to recover from the blinding glare of headlights. That’s enough blindness to swerve off the road or potentially hit something.
While glare can be problematic, drivers can take certain steps to make it safer to drive at night.
CLEAN THE WINDSHIELD
Dirt and grime found on the windshield can refract light and make glare worse. Therefore, clean all windows and mirrors thoroughly, inside and out.
REPAIR SCRATCHES AND CRACKS
Glare can be exacerbated by any imperfections in the windshield. Repair cracks or scratches promptly.
GET A VISION AND HEALTH CHECK
Changes to vision can impact how glare affects certain individuals. Vitamin A deficiency can cause night blindness, also known as nyctalopia. Eye shape changes, including a condition called keratoconus, can affect vision. Cataracts and diabetes also impair vision. Visit with a primary care physician as well as an eye doctor to diagnose conditions that can make night vision worse.
CHANGE YOUR LINE OF SIGHT
Do not look directly into oncoming headlights. Rather, look slightly down and to the right side of the road so that you’re not focusing on the beams.
GET GLARE-RESISTANT COATINGS ON EYEGLASSES
Speak with an optician about eyeglasses with anti-glare coating. This will significantly reduce the amount of glare. VisionCenters. com says standard plastic lenses reflect around 8 percent of the light that reaches glasses, while highindex lenses reflect up to 12 percent of available light. Anti-glare coating allows 99.5 percent of available light to reach the eyes, essentially eliminating glare. Those who don’t wear eyeglasses can purchase specific anti-glare glasses to wear in high-glare conditions
FLIP THE REARVIEW MIRROR TO “NIGHT”
MODE
This will make it appear as though lights coming from behind are dimmer.
PLAN ROUTES WITH LESS GLARE
Whenever possible, choose routes with less traffic or avoid areas known for heavy oncoming headlights at night.
STAY AWARE OF WEATHER CONDITIONS
Rain or snow can amplify glare from headlights. Drive more cautiously during adverse weather conditions, and reduce speed to maintain control.
Designing a sunroom that shines through the seasons
As fall nears winter, many lament the loss of outdoor opportunities. Though winter might compel the masses to huddle up inside, there’s still a way to take in the great outdoors on cold winter days and nights. It might not prove an exact substitute for summer nights around the firepit, but a sunroom affords homeowners a chance to marvel at snowy winter landscapes without venturing out into the cold. Sometimes referred to as all-season rooms, sunrooms can make for a great retreat on quiet summer mornings or crisp autumn afternoons. Sunrooms can be treated as blank canvasses, which makes decorating them more fun.
A few tricks of the trade can help homeowners turn their blank canvasses into welcoming spaces to take in all that nature has to offer throughout the year.
Define the purpose. When the weather gets too chilly to dine outside, will the sunroom serve as an alternative dining space in the same way
patios and decks do during the warm weather? Or do homeowners want to turn their sunrooms into reading rooms? Though it’s possible to make sunrooms multipurpose spaces, it may be hard to create a relaxing vibe in rooms that are too crowded with furnishings or too busy. Defining how the space will be used also makes it easier when shopping for furnishings.
Define when the room will be used. In addition to defining how the room will be used, homeowners should consider when the room will be used. A year-round sunroom will need to be heated, while a threeseason sunroom likely won’t require heating. Cooling might be a concern on hot summer afternoons, but many homeowners will likely spend such days outside anyway, so cooling the room may be as simple as installing a ceiling fan and ensuring windows can be opened to let fresh air in. Homeowners who want a year-round sunroom should install insulated glass to keep the room even warmer when the mercury dips.
Opt for bright colors. Bright colors can make sunrooms feel all the more inviting and make for a perfect match with all the natural light already in the room. The renovation experts at HGTV note that white walls and ceilings can maximize the warm illumination of the natural light that will be pouring in from the floor-toceiling windows. Brightly colored cushions, pillows and area rugs with similarly hued colors and patterns can add visual interest to a sunroom.
Make use of a view. Homeowners don’t need to direct too much of their focus on decor if their sunrooms come with a view. Art on the walls and other decorative items around the room are less important if a sunroom affords a spectacular view of the ocean or a lake or dense woods that attract local wildlife. In rooms with a view, arrange furniture so residents and guests can comfortably look outward and take in all the surrounding landscape has to offer.
