Home & Garden Fall 2024
Above photos ©Michelle Rose Studio 450
From Bleak Backyard To Opulent Oasis, Hot Tubs Offer Well-Rounded Approach To Physical And Mental Well-Being
B y M eghan D ahl M eyer
Stress has been served in excess. Weekends aren’t long enough, and holidays often feel over before they’ve begun.
Continuing with the staycation trend that gained popularity during peak COVID-19, and with more employers offering vacation days to support mental health, homeowners are extending their investments to the backyard in the form of jacuzzi tubs
Spas and hot tub purchases held a steady average until 2020. According to Aqua magazine, “There were many hot tub manufacturing and shipping delays due to extremely high consumer demand, factory shutdowns, materials, parts and labor shortages. With skyrocketing demand across the country, dealers were selling new hot tubs as quickly as they could order and receive the units.”
Despite the temporary slow turnaround, families waited it out, recognizing that the benefits of the new addition far outweighed the time spent waiting for its arrival.
When speaking with Newtown residents about their purchases, there was collective agreement that having a hot tub supported their family and extended relationships best of all. In most instances, the retreat spaces created have become a hub for hanging out and socializing.
Sandy Hook resident Katelynn Clark shared that her favorite part of owning a hot tub has been relaxing with her husband after the kids are in bed and enjoying a glass of wine
“It’s for personal use, relaxation, and for entertaining friends,” Clark added.
Relaxation is a firm consensus among spa owners. Warm water and pressurized jets help ease muscle discomfort, reduce tension, and lower stress levels. Research supports the link between heat and improved blood flow, which can reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure. Water immersion also decreases joint pressure, while warm water can alleviate anxiety and promote a meditative state. Overall, hot tubs offer a well-rounded approach to physical and mental well-being
“The convenience of being able to relax at home is really nice,” said fellow Sandy Hook resident Kristina Knapp. “We use ours after work and at night, or for spending time with family.”
For those looking to combine relaxation with exercise, swim spas offer the perfect solution. These versatile units allow for low-impact workouts such as swimming or water aerobics, all within the comfort of home. Unlike traditional pools, swim spas require less upkeep, making them an attractive option for busy homeowners. Mikaela Stock from Shady Rest said her family’s swim spa has dual usage.
“It doubles as a mini pool for my son,” she said.
Creating an oasis around the spa is another way homeowners are maximizing their backyard retreats. Some have set their spas up next to outdoor
Relaxation is a firm consensus among spa owners, many of whom create a whole setting around their backyard retreat. —Ron Lach photo
kitchens, making it easy to enjoy a meal or a drink while relaxing. Others have installed outdoor televisions to host game nights or movie marathons from the comfort of their hot tub.
Those seeking a mindful escape took a different approach. Instead of centering their spa in high traffic areas around the home, they have surrounded them with greenery and incorporated water features to transform the area into a sanctuary. Then there is the familiar seasonal porch set up with music and dim lighting. The luxury here is having the perfect space for year-round enjoyment, regardless of the weather.
As more people prioritize wellness and at home investments, hot tubs and swim spas are becoming essential backyard features. Whether for relaxation, socializing, exercise, or creating a personal oasis, these additions offer significant benefits that enhance both physical health and emotional well-being. With a variety of customization options, homeowners can tailor spa spaces to meet their lifestyle needs, making hot tubs and swim spas more than just luxuries. They are key components of a balanced, enjoyable life at home.
Meghan Dahlmeyer can be reached at meghan@thebee.com
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Unlike traditional pools, swim spas require less upkeep, making them an attractive option for busy homeowners. At least one local family uses theirs with a dual purpose.
—Cottonbro Studio photo
Ready To Light A Fireplace? Take Some Important Steps Before That First Fire Of The Season
By SaM CroSS
As the weather starts to cool, certain parts of the home are heating up. These are fireplaces, of course. While the winter months are still a few weeks away, it is imperative to have fireplaces routinely checked to remove any possible fire hazards.
Those with wood-burning stoves should start cutting firewood to stack on porches and ensure to call a reliable chimney sweep company to clean any creosol build-up in the chimney from last year’s winter season. Those with gas or oil stoves should be testing stoves “before you need it,” said Al Breda, an HVAC sales representative for Sippin Energy Products.
Gas or oil burning stoves are intricate pieces of machinery that can be incredibly beneficial to homeowners, but only if they are installed and cared for properly. Breda from Sippin and Ed Walsh, sales manager for Leahy’s Fuels, both encourage homeowners to not install anything gas-related by themselves.
For one thing, gas log inserts must be installed per code.
“We go over everything,” Breda said. “You need to pull permits. You have someone to call if it doesn’t work.”
Stephen Rosentel, president of Leahy’s Fuels, said, “the important thing is to make sure that they’re willing to get them serviced if they’re going to buy the unit, and also that they go to a qualified, licensed, insured, competent technician to install [gas log inserts] or to work on them.”
Technicians can open the glass plate of a fireplace and ensure the gas lines are in order, clean the ceramic logs of dust, and sweep up any cobwebs that may have formed over the summer months with spiders trying to move in.
Rosentel also explained the difference between unvented and vented gas log inserts.
Vented gas log sets have a vent pipe that bring fresh air into the combustion chamber and a pipe that releases exhaust fumes,
Specializing in Landclearing & Grinding, Mulch, Topsoil and Firewood
he said. Unvented gas log sets use air within the room to fuel the fire. The issue with unvented gas log sets is that soot from the fire starts to gather in the home, which can cause respiratory issues and damage to the home.
“We do not sell unvented log sets,” he said. “We won’t service them either.”
Rosentel said one thing homeowners will start seeing “is where the joists are on the white ceilings, you start seeing the little black streak.
“If they don’t notice it right away, that black soot can actually travel throughout the whole house and cause $30-40,000 worth of damage to repaint and clean everything up,” he cautioned.
This is part of why Walsh emphasized that those who are looking to buy either a new unit or to replace a wood burning stove in their home to go to a showroom and “see it burning … Come in and talk to us.”
Leahy’s offers a wide range of services for those with fireplaces, including having a salesperson do a free home visit and assessing “what best equipment will fit into [a] home,” Walsh said.
Sippin Energy is the same. They have automatic delivery service for their customers and Vice President Eric Sippin said homeowners could invest in electric gauges.
“There’s an app so you can see how much fuel you have,” Sippin said.
As the snow starts to fall, remember to shovel a pathway to oil tanks for oil delivery personnel, too.
“It’s always recommended, for sure,” Sippin laughed.
Breda said propane and oil delivery guys “get a great workout every time there’s a foot and a half of snow. You’re stepping like you never stepped before.”
Leahy’s and Sippin both offer great service to the Newtown community. Sippin said, “We’re just committed to providing the best service we can to everyone in Newtown.”
Reporter Sam Cross can be reached at sam@thebee.com.
This is one example of a fireplace in Leahy’s showroom.
—Bee Photo, Cross
While standard first aid kits include essentials that can be used year-round, consider adding tools tailored to cold weather and ice.
—Roger
Winter Preparation Tips For First Aid Kits And Health
By Claire BaranoviC
The winter season in Connecticut typically brings ice, snow and colder temperatures. While standard first aid kits include essentials such as adhesive bandages, gauze pads, cleansing wipes and more — which can be used year-round — it is important to be knowledgeable about other tips and supplies that can be especially helpful during winter.
In addition to physical risks, winter can also bring seasonal illnesses such as the cold and flu, making it more crucial to keep up with medications as well as vitamins and supplements.
For those who are elderly or have a weakened immune system, winter can be a challenging time. It is important to prepare first aid kits and plan in advance for seasonal health challenges.
Mahmoud Hendy from Newtown Health Pharmacy recommends adding ice packs, thermal packs, frostbite cream and personal medications well before cold weather arrives.
These supplies can be useful when protecting skin and body from freezing conditions.
The Elderly And Immunocompromised
Keeping up with vaccinations is also crucial, especially for those who are elderly or immunocompromised.
According to Hendy, “the most important thing for the winter is taking the vaccines in general, flu, COVID, or any vaccine that’s required by the CDC.”
It can also be beneficial to wear face masks in public and to avoid touching things. Many pharmacies can provide information on vaccinations as well as provide appointments to help patients stay up to date.
Preventative Measures
Preventing illness during the winter months can include a combination of having proper nutrition, rest and taking vitamins. Hendy emphasizes the importance of zinc, vitamin C and vitamin D.
“Zinc is very important to boost your immunity… vitamin C is very common for the cold and flu, so you should take at least 500 milligrams per day, especially during the winter time,” he noted. Vitamin D can also be helpful as people are less likely to be outside in the sun during colder times.
Summer Intern Claire Baranovic can be reached through editor@thebee.com
Brown photo
Optimize A Small Kitchen With These Tips
Use
cabinets. Use an over-the-sink dish drying rack. Mount a magnetic knife sheaf to your backsplash. Use a rolling storage cart that can be moved out of the way when needed, being sure to opt for one with a wooden top to boost your counter real estate. All these solutions will help free up more of your workspace, ensuring you have plenty of room to chop, mix and stir.
Go Multifunctional
Top-notch appliances don’t need to be huge to provide professional-style performance. It’s all about finding models that offer multifunctionality, such as the 30-inch Dolcevita Dual Fuel Range by the Italian brand, Lofra Appliances. A great example of a luxury range uniquely engineered to fit a smaller space, unlike other compact appliances of its size, this one ensures that you can get the aesthetics, powerful BTU output and oven capacity that larger ranges offer. Its convection oven offers nine programmable cooking functions so that you can defrost, grill and bake like a pro, no matter the size of your kitchen.
Get Creative
It’s a good idea to get a bit creative about where appliances will actually fit in your compact kitchen. For example, the 30-inch Wall Oven from Verona is only 24 inches tall, making it the perfect height for an under-the-counter installation. Pair it with a Verona 12-inch, 24-inch or 30-inch cooktop, which have minimal undercounter depth, for a great combination when space is limited.
If you need a second oven, Verona packs two multifunction ovens into one 36-inch range. Both ovens feature optimal amounts of space so you can fit anything from weekday dinners to the Thanksgiving turkey and all of the side dishes to go with it.
Both Verona and Lofra are exclusively imported by EuroChef USA. For more information, visit eurochefusa.com.
Build Upward
Don’t forget to think about your kitchen from a vertical perspective, too. This can help you maximize every square inch of the room. Add hooks to the upper areas of your walls, or even hang items from the ceiling. Put seasonal tools and ingredients up on the highest shelves and rotate them as needed. A small, foldable stepstool takes up almost no storage space but can help you reach those seldom-used items when it’s time.
A cozy kitchen is no cause for distress. Whether it’s throwing an elaborate dinner party or cooking for a busy family, you can get a lot done in your smaller kitchen with wise appliance choices and creative storage solutions. This article is courtesy of statepoint.net.
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What To Know Before Transforming An Outdoor Space With Lighting And Landscape Design
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No matter the time of the year, it is never too early for someone to think about transforming their outdoor space through lighting and landscape design. There are many things that people should consider before taking the steps to start renovating their outdoor space.
Holmes Fine Gardens Owner Dan Holmes says one of the first things someone should think about when it comes to landscaping is the functionality they are trying to achieve.
“In my mind, good design always starts with the functional aspects of a situation so that you can give someone what they need functionally,” Holmes said. “So I start with that; in trying to understand first and foremost what each person is trying to achieve and what that function is [that they’re looking for].”
These different needs vary from person to person. One person could need better access to their backyard, or they could need a better entryway to the front of their home. Someone else might need to have their driveway realigned, and another potential client just might want their lawn to look more inviting.
This also carries over into outdoor lighting too, according to Bethel Ace Hardware Store Manager Cory King. He says if someone wants to illumi -
nate a path they plan to walk on at night, they might want to look at using low voltage lights that will provide slightly better consistency of light compared to solar power.
When it comes to lights, King believes solar stake lights are the
most cost effective way to enhance an area, but they have potential inconsistency of light. Meanwhile, low voltage lights are more costly, but only because they provide more consistent lighting since they are always getting that same power.
All of these needs, whether they are to improve how someone physically moves around or to make everything look more aesthetically pleasing, Holmes says, are issues of function.
“It could be different stairs for a
Landscaping and outdoor lighting can help transform any outdoor space and bring the comfort of the indoors outside.
—photo courtesy Holmes Fine Gardens
less steep angle they have to walk up, a drainage situation, screening from their neighbors because they want some privacy. These are all functional kinds of issues,” Holmes said. “But it’s after we establish those parameters and ask, ‘What are we trying to achieve here?’ Then we think about, ‘Okay, how do we do that? What form is that going to take?’”
Maintenance-Life Balance
Another thing people should consider before redesigning their outdoor space, Holmes says, is the level of maintenance and upkeep they are comfortable with. When Holmes and his company work, he says that they are always looking at ways to keep the maintenance of a property at a minimum because “most people are busy.”
“They just want it to function well,” Holmes continued. “They want the plants to thrive. They want the landscape to be comfortable and inviting. The last thing most people want to do is be a slave to their gardens and their lawns on the weekends.”
For someone who might already struggle to balance their kids, activities, and social life, and then have to set aside that extra time to take care of their outdoor space, they might not have energy or availability to do something complex. There could always be a more simple, lowmaintenance alternative out there for them.
Cost is also an important factor that can impact someone’s design plans. King and Holmes both stress that there are ways for someone to not break the bank to get something similar to what they want.
King said people “can absolutely keep a low budget and try to do what they want to do.” Someone working with what they have and is capable of help guides the rest of the process. As an example, King says that many people jump onto solar stake
lights because they give what he calls “immediate satisfaction.”
“You can come down, buy them today, put them in the ground, and you’re going to have light tonight, whereas the low voltage may require a lot more involvement in regards to if you have the outlets there, but then also running wires and that sort of thing,” King said.
Even if they are a popular choice, solar stake lights are popular not just because they are easy to set up, but also partly because of their price. As a matter of fact, King says solar power is usually going to be cheaper than hooking up a whole line of a low voltage lighting system.
Holmes says people should also think about any potential safety concerns that naturally come with their property. These can range from problematic trees that might fall onto the house to whether there is an erosion problem such as water collecting in the driveway that will freeze during the winter, eventually creating erosion and/or drainage issues.
Holmes also considers invasive plants a safety issue. For anyone looking to improve their property with a beautiful garden, invasive plants around Newtown and the western Connecticut area, such as Japanese Barberry, Asiatic Bittersweet, and Japanese Knotweed can greatly damage the surrounding environment.
“What happens with these invasive plants and why they’re problematic is if they take over an area, they push out the native species. And then for the native animals and insects that rely on the native plant, their food source is gone,” Holmes said.
Holmes says when someone has a high population of Japanese Barberry, they typically have a high population of white-footed mice. These mice enter into and hide in that Japanese Barberry because they are
incredibly thorny, giving the mice protection from their natural predators. This leads to an increasing population of mice and, in turn, an increase of ticks.
Additional Factors
Weather is another important factor that goes into outdoor design. Someone can be driven to renovate their outdoor space, but finding inspiration for how they want to improve it is another story. Holmes suggested that, for those who want to spruce up their outdoor space but don’t know how to start, look at the world around them for inspiration. He personally loves, he said, looking at books and the internet for ideas, but he also loves going to places and exploring nature for ideas, too.
“It really depends on what type of inspiration you’re looking for, because if you’re looking for a cool native garden that’s really green and verdant, literally sometimes all it takes is going for a hike in the woods,” Holmes said.
Holmes suggests visiting places such as New York Botanical Garden and Brooklyn Botanic Garden as amazing places to visit in case someone needs ideas. Even if someone travels and asks to recreate a particular aesthetic that they saw in Los Angeles, Holmes says “maybe it’s a different plant zone where we can’t grow those plants here, but the feeling of that particular vibe is what we try to recreate.”
“So the inspiration comes from so many different places,” Holmes continued. “It really does. I mean, it’s gardening, gardening magazines, gardening books, gardening shows, other people’s gardens; it’s just about everywhere.”
King and Holmes both believe that renovating an outdoor space can help people connect to their property and appreciate it in a whole new way. Improvements to lighting and landscape design can make the out -
doors feel like it is a cozy extension of the home
“Outdoor lighting can completely transform an area. It can make the same area that you have currently, by adding a little bit of lighting around it, completely change depending on the time of day,” King said. “It’s extending your time outside, from sunup to sundown to after hours. It’s creating that space for you to go to … You don’t have to have a massive backyard or patio setup, something simple and small can completely change the whole look.”
Holmes believes that someone transforming their outdoor space into something they love and feel more comfortable with overall improves their well-being.
“What really, really inspires me to create spaces for clients and for friends and family is that they can be really inviting, very comfortable and even potentially ecologically beneficial,” Holmes said. “The more beneficial plants, the right landscaping, the right aesthetic; everything can bring a real balance to the people there. It brings a real balance to people’s psyche.”
For those interested in taking that first step into landscaping and outdoor lighting, there is no better time to start than now. All it takes is some research, figuring out what is wanted for the property, and reaching out to the right people to make it happen.
“If they have an idea to come in and talk to somebody about it, and it can be something that can, we can make that idea come true,” King said.
For more information about Holmes Fine Gardens, visit holmesfinegardens.com or call 203-270-3331. For more information about Ace Hardware, visit acehardware.com or call the Bethel location at 203-748-4200.
Reporter Jenna Visca can be reached at jenna@thebee.com.
Chintz-N-Prints Owner Laura Gardner, granddaughter of business founder Louise Gardner, stands within part of her stock of various fabrics and drapery. Her family’s business has been commissioned for many movie and television sets.
Fall Holidays Around The Corner For Local Businesses
By JaCk koBroCk
Well before summer turns into autumn, local businesses are well ahead of planning for the upcoming fall and holiday season.
Art & Frame, the Main Street exhibit gallery and framing studio owned by John O’Sullivan, has several plans for the upcoming holiday season. The business originally opened in Danbury but moved to Newtown for the chance to open a bigger gallery and to be closer to his house.
In addition to monthly shows the gallery also hosts large and small work shows that they do during the holiday season. O’Sullivan particularly enjoys setting up his giant inflatable Frankenstein which he puts out in honor of the previous owners of the building.
“This used to be an ambulance building so we have a big monster ambulance with monsters popping out the side and big inflatables we put out that used to be the garage base for the ambulance,” he said.
Chintz-N-Prints, the South Main Street business that opened in 1957, has done work for numerous popular movies and television shows such as The Marvelous Mrs Maisel and Joker. The long-standing Newtown business takes pride in its large inventory of vintage and new home décor fabrics for all customers’ drapery, slipcover, and upholstery needs.
Owner Laura Gardner says the business finds itself on the opposite side of
business is often busy during the holidays with many customers who want to plump up their cushions and replace foam for upcoming company.
Gardner recommends keeping fabrics away from any candles that may be lit by customers during the holiday season.
Another local business located in Monroe, much like Art & Frame, enjoys decorating its store for the holiday season. Benedict’s Home and Garden, which originally started as a feed and grain store in the 1950s, began out of the family home by Ralph Benedict. It has since transformed into a full lawn and garden, farm, and pet center run by Ralph’s grandson Bruce Benedict.
Despite their busiest time of the year being the spring, Bruce said autumn still stands as the second busiest time of the year. He said Benedict’s decorates for the fall, including putting out a corn pit, corn maze, and a climbing straw attraction, and they also do a lot for Christmas.
“We do Christmas holiday things as well with Christmas trees, live trees, and all kinds of decorations for the holidays, roping and poinsettias, and mostly things of that nature,” he said.
the spectrum compared to other stores.
Though they do decorate their store for the fall holiday season, it does not sell any seasonal merchandise.
“We do have snow kits that people can
use for their miniature Christmas villages and fabrics that would work as a lovely tablecloth,” she said.
Though sales can be unpredictable at times, she said the South Main Street
For more information on these local businesses during the fall and holiday season, visit artandframeofdanbury. com, chintznprints.com, and benedictsgarden.com.
Summer Intern Jack Kobrock can be reached through editor@thebee.com
John O’Sullivan, who has been creating and showcasing his art since he was 15 years old, in front of the many works that local artists submitted for exposure at Art & Frame in Newtown.
Bruce Benedict (second from left) says his family’s business does a lot of decorating for autumn and the holiday season. The current president and grandson of Benedict’s Home and Garden founder Ralph Benedict is shown with his team of cashiers: Aidan Pryor, Tarin Keller, and Evan Vincent. — Bee Photos, Kobrock
B y M eghan D ahl M eyer
Deteriorating sashes, chalking, dry rot, and sun damage — the window is fixed in its frame but homeowners wonder for how much longer. Condensation has built up between glass panes. There’s a cold draft leading from the second story.
All of the signs are there, and seemingly overnight, windows need replacing.
There’s New England weather to blame, the sun, the age of the house. Expansion and contraction are expected during seasonal changes, and Mother Nature is a relentless force. Now there are permits to apply for, manufacturers and contractors to choose from.
Operation: Pane Relief
Replacing windows is an expensive but essential task that can greatly enhance your home’s energy efficiency, appearance, functionality and value.
The headache sets in. Homeowners understand that maintenance and replacement is expected, but the best way to combat feeling overwhelmed throughout the process is to be informed. The Newtown Bee met with two local businesses to help get Operation: Pane Relief started.
The search for knowledge begins prior to the first phone call. Some homeowners may choose to start by assessing
which windows receive the most sun exposure, as these are usually the first to experience visible wear and tear. Whole house installations will encompass a larger budget, while partial replacements will allow homeowners to work within the confines of their allocated spending amount. There are myriad reasons to begin this process, but it all comes down to how window replacement can best serve
the family and home. Sam Jelliffe, installation manager at Interstate Lumber, highlighted these initial thoughts, stating, “Factor in an overall budget and the purpose and scope of the project.”
Jelliffe has been in the industry for over a decade and with Interstate Lumber for 2½ years. He added, “The maintenance requirements of the individual models a customer might be interested in should
also be taken into consideration.”
Some windows need to be replaced due to their age. Other times, homeowners are looking to increase curb appeal or natural light. Because costs could have a vast range, knowing what is preferred and why the process is starting comes hand in hand.
Material and installation considerations were brought into the discussion by Keith Kling, owner of the third-generation family business Kling Brothers Builders.
“There are vinyl windows and other options like aluminium-clad and composite,” Kling explained. “You also want to ensure both installation and the unit meet federal standards as well as local energy ordinances. Research manufacturers based on the age of the home, budget, and desired style.”
It is not expected that every homeowner is adept at window shopping. Carpentry is a trade that requires education and thought, just like any other.
Kling took over the family business 39 years ago with the desire to continue his father’s legacy, and with added emphasis on quality.
“Customers should be a part of the team — the family — from the start of the project, and contractors should be providing comprehensive information, not just a sales pitch,” he explained.
This sentiment was fully echoed by Jelliffe, who added, “Selecting an installer who will guide you through the process and explain every detail helps avoid oversight. Customers should choose contractors who thoroughly explain the job, including what will happen and why.”
Whether replacements are necessary due to the age and wear of the existing windows or there are bonus factors contributing to replacement, there are benefits to upgrading across the board. Jelliffe and Kling both mentioned how window replacements can increase energy efficiency and lower costs.
“Newer products have a better fit and finish when compared to older models,” Jelliffe said, while Kling explained “older models sparingly used insulation around the frames, and older homes have larger gaps around windows, leading to an increased airflow.”
Kling Brothers Builders and Interstate Lumber are also in agreement that new windows enhance a home’s appearance and overall value. Whether these expenses are made for the family or for a future sale, “The value increase directly benefits the customer,” said Kling. “Windows are a big expense, but your biggest and best investment is always your home.”
Other benefits to upgrading windows included reducing home allergens and increasing daylight into specific rooms. Jelliffe also highlighted that modern windows, especially models with aluminium exteriors, require minimal maintenance. Gone are the days of frequent paint touch-ups.
“It’s a personal preference. Wood exteriors do require regular maintenance and painting. Aluminium clad could last well over twenty years with
additional work.
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Mother Nature, especially in New England, is a relentless force that leads to deteriorating sashes, chalking, dry rot and other window damage. Windows are a big expense, but experts say they are key to a home’s energy efficiency, appearance, functionality and value. —photo courtesy Interstate Lumber
Benefits to upgrading windows include reducing home allergens and increasing daylight into specific rooms. Floor-toceiling glass allows as much light as possible.
—photo courtesy Kling Brothers Builders
All you have to do is wash them, really,” he said, adding “My parents’ windows still look brand new.”
Aluminium clad appeared in the way of a trend, where both Jelliffe and Kling noticed several customers leaning toward that and composite. There are other popular style choices cropping up, too. Kling has seen a recent interest in Polish windows, though he added, “It takes time to draw an opinion. I like to give my customers what they want, but I also enjoy revisiting a jobsite and seeing that any product I’ve installed are still holding strong.”
Black windows on white exteriors, bench seats with large windows, and the creation of expansive, multi-seasonal spaces: Jelliffe noted these trends have also been highly requested as of late.
“Large folding doors and floor-to-ceiling glass — people want to maximize their view and allow in as much light as possible,” he said.
When asked for final commentary and advice, Kling and Jelliffe were both on the same page again.
“Proper installation is crucial for window longevity,” said Jelliffe. “Discuss the installation process up-front with your considered installers.
Kling said when it comes to windows, “look for manufacturers with a good history and installers with a good reputation. There are federal standards that manufacturers are expected to meet and licensing options for contractors.”
Replacing windows is an expensive but essential task that can greatly enhance your home’s energy efficiency, appearance, functionality and value. From selecting materials to understanding the installation process, being informed is the key to making the best decisions for your family and home.
Meghan Dahlmeyer can be contacted at meghan@thebee.com
Proper installation is crucial for window longevity.
—photo courtesy Interstate Lumber
Modern windows on a custom Roxbury home. Some homeowners may choose to start by assessing which windows receive the most sun exposure, as these are usually the first to experience visible wear and tear.
—photo courtesy Kling Brothers Builders
Transform Countertop Surfaces In Just A Weekend
you know that you don’t have to spend tons of time or money on home interior updates? In fact, you don’t even have to engage a contractor to elevate your spaces in a big way. Here are three stunning methods for completely transforming stained, burned or otherwise drab countertop surfaces in your kitchen, bath or other areas of your home. The beauty is that each project costs less than $300, and you can complete one in a weekend, even if you don’t consider yourself especially handy:
1. A marble look: Installing marble countertops can cost thousands of dollars and disrupt your life for weeks, if not months. Fortunately, there’s a way to get the same beautiful, one-of-a-kind look of marble with just a few supplies. The Marble Dream Resurfacing Kit from Daich Coatings is a new stone coating system engineered to be applied in a few simple steps, with no special artistic skill required. Available in both Pristine White and Cosmos Black, every installation will look completely unique based on how you blend the product. After prepping your surface and applying the base coat, the glaze mix and the vein accent colors, you use a blow dryer to push the colors around, deciding for yourself how they get blended, and the direction and strength of the details and fin -
Here are three stunning methods for completely transforming stained, burned or otherwise drab countertop surfaces in your kitchen, bath or other areas of your home.
ish. Designed so you can work at a relaxed pace and make changes on the fly, cleanup is a snap for this project. And the water-based, odorless formula is safe too, so you won’t be exposed to anything hazardous. When you’re finished, not only will your countertops look revitalized, they’ll offer superior heat, impact and scratch resistance for greater utility. The brand makes installation easy by providing a detailed online video tutorial, which you can find on
their website, Daichcoatings.com.
2. Real granite finish: Real granite countertops are an elegant, natural upgrade that can take your kitchen or bath to a whole new level. But what if you didn’t have to commit to the complicated construction, scary price tag or long wait time of a full stone slab to get the authentic look and performance of smooth, polished granite? The LuxROCK Solid Surface Granite Kit by Daich Coatings allows you to add a premium stone
surface — complete with the visual pop of mineral highlights and sparkling accents — right over your existing countertop, without the mess or hassle of tearing out your current surface. Available in five beautiful colors, you can renew existing countertops made of laminate, wood, concrete, stone and more in just a weekend, and have the flexibility to economically switch to a new look if you’d ever like to refresh.
3. Naturalized, speckled stone: For more of a natural speckled stone appearance, consider the 11 colors available in the SpreadStone Countertop Finishing Kit, which allows you to tailor your texture. This twostep project takes two days to complete, with results that will last for many years. In addition to a range of interior applications, you can also use this kit on exterior surfaces, including bar tops, barbecue areas, tables and more. As with the other kits, there is no need to remove sinks, plumbing fixtures or your current countertop to make this renovation, and your finished product will be food safe and intact with a polyurethane clear coat.
In just one weekend, you can make totally transformative DIY interior updates in a way that’s cost-effective and simple. This article is courtesy of statepoint.net.
With the frequency of natural disasters on the rise, it’s a good idea to think about the components of your house and whether they are built to withstand wicked weather.
Fortunately, manufacturers are stepping up to the plate to create home building products that are stronger and more reliable in the face of hurricanes, wildfires and other disasters. Here’s how you can take advantage of these innovations:
Roofing
If you’re building a home or re-roofing your current property, be sure to talk to your contractor about what roofing products they are using, and ask about innovative steel products best-suited for your region. Whether you live in a hurricaneprone coastal community or in the path of wildfires, steel roofing can offer additional protection for your home. Steel roofs are non-combustible, have wind-resistant components and can help mitigate the risk of fire damage from chimneys, fire pits or wildfires.
In particular, US Steel’s COASTALUME steel is engineered and warranted for coastal environments to bring an enhanced level of performance and protection against high concentrations of ultraviolet rays, excessive heat and rainfall, sea salt spray and hurricane-force winds. COASTALUME combines Tedlar PVF film, which offers improved flexibility and impact resistance, with licensed GALVALUME steel, which provides excellent long-term durability, strength and corrosion resistance to protect a building’s roof and walls for decades. To learn more, visit ussteel.com.
Strong Windows
For optimal protection, you’ll want to ensure that your windows exceed your state and county’s strictest codes and requirements and are made from materials that will not only make a big difference during weather events, but also improve your everyday comfort and safety. For example, hurricane-impact windows that can withstand high-speed impacts typically offer more soundproofing than standard windows, dimming the roar of your neighbor’s early morning lawnmowing. They also make forced entry more difficult, providing an additional layer of security. And for those in wildfire prone areas, dual pane tempered glass windows provide protection against flames and embers while offering enhanced insulation, a great benefit in extreme temperatures. During key times of year, install storm shutters or fire-rated shutters as an additional safety barrier.
Flooring
Just as your house’s exterior can benefit from the right materials, so too can your interiors. If you live in a coastal or other flood-prone area, traditional hardwood flooring is probably not the right choice for your ground floor or basement, as it can be prone to mildew, mold and warping. Instead, opt for newer flooring material options, such as vinyl meant to mimic the look and feel of real hardwood or engineered hardwood, made of composite materials with a thin, treated hardwood layer. Likewise, fire-resistant flooring can reduce the spread of flames through your home when every second counts. Thanks to the array of beautiful design options that are available today, popular fire-resistant choices include stone and concrete.
By relying on the latest engineering innovations, you can help safeguard your property from top to bottom. This article is courtesy of statepoint.net.
photo courtesy of Jurkos / iStock via Getty Images Plus
Tips For A Successful Home Renovation
Whether you’re buying a fixer-upper or updating your current home, renovations will improve the functionality of your property and increase its value. Here’s your guide for making the process successful:
Set a goal: Prioritize renovations that help you meet your goals. For example, if you’d like to elevate your home’s aesthetic appeal, consider projects such as landscaping the front yard or refurbishing a highlytrafficked room. If you’re more interested in guarding your home against natural disasters, consider exterior updates such as replacing the roof or windows.
Find inspiration: Browse home improvement magazines, websites and social media platforms for visual inspiration. Keep a collection of images and ideas that you can use to communicate with your contractor or designer.
Calculate return on investment: Certain projects can substantially reduce your utility bills while others can make your home more valuable when it’s time to sell. When calculating your renovation budget,
don’t forget to factor in the projected return on investment.
Build a budget: Speaking of budgets, you can use Freddie Mac’s budget worksheet available at myhome.freddiemac.com/ resources/budget-worksheet to help you avoid overspending. Be sure to include a contingency reserve to pay for the inevitable unexpected costs that emerge along the way. If you’re short on needed funds, explore financing options with your lender. In some cases, accessing the equity you have built up in your home through refinancing or taking out a second mortgage can help cover the costs. Here are three mortgage products offered by Freddie Mac specifically designed to finance renovations:
*CHOICERenovation mortgages allow you to finance a wide range of renovations, including roof replacement, kitchen and bath remodels, and additions.
*CHOICEReno eXPress mortgages finance smaller-scale renovations and, like CHOICERenovation, offer the flexibility to work with your own contractors
and those at big-box home improvement stores.
*GreenCHOICE Mortgages can finance energy efficiency improvements.
Select your contractor: The contractor is critical to the success of your renovation. Get recommendations from trusted sources, including friends, family and verified online resources. Meet with multiple contractors to discuss your project and request bids to gain a more thorough understanding of project costs and which contractor can best meet your goals. Of course, don’t forget to verify their qualifications. Ask for project references and documentation to confirm they have the proper licensing and liability insurance.
Once you’ve found the right contractor, make sure your agreement is in writing to avoid potential disputes. The contract should contain a budget, scope of work and payment schedule that all parties have agreed upon.
Develop your project: Work with your contractor to develop a realistic time line for your project that builds in extra time
for unexpected delays. Before the work starts, you should also work with your contractor to obtain any permits needed and start sourcing materials.
Start building: Regular meetings with your contractor can help ensure that everything is on schedule, and that you are in the loop on any plan modifications. If changes are needed, make sure they’re submitted in writing as a change order. No matter how thorough your specifications are, you should be prepared for unexpected issues along the way. So be flexible and work with a trusted contractor to find practical solutions to issues that arise. Conduct a final inspection once all renovations have been completed and make sure to address any issues with the contractor before making your final payment.
Home renovations can make your home safer, more beautiful, more eco-friendly and more valuable, and with the right preparation and execution, you can complete your project on time and under budget.
This article is courtesy of statepoint.net.
Top Reasons To Consider A Steel Roof For Your Home
Steel is increasingly becoming the go-to material used for residential roofing. According to industry experts, this is because steel offers both a range of design advantages, as well as features that align with sustainable living. Here are some of steel roofing’s biggest benefits and why you should consider it for your home:
Durability: Steel roofing is highly durable and can last for 50 years or more with proper maintenance. This longevity means that fewer roofing materials end up in landfills over time compared to shorter-lived roofing materials such as asphalt shingles, which typically need replacement every 20-30 years.
Safety: Overall, steel roofing offers enhanced safety benefits due to its fire-resistance, wind-resistance, structural integrity, durability, resistance to pests and mold, and low-maintenance requirements.
Recyclability: Steel has been recycled for over 100 years and is one of the most recyclable materials in the world. As a forerunner of the circular economy, it can be recycled infinitely into new steel products without losing its quality or durability. This reduces the amount of waste generated by roofing projects and conserves natu-
ral resources.
Energy Efficiency: Alongside such technological innovations as solar panels and energy-efficient HVAC systems, steel roofing is becoming integral to residential design, particularly for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. This is because steel roofing reflects solar radiant heat, reducing cooling costs during hot weather. Many steel roofing products are also coated with reflective finishes that further enhance energy efficiency by reducing heat absorption.
Versatility: Steel roofing comes in a variety of styles, colors and profiles, allowing you to achieve the desired aesthetic for your home. Whether you prefer a traditional look or a modern design, steel roofing can accommodate a wide range of architectural preferences, enhancing the curb appeal and value of the property.
Long-Term Cost Savings: Although the initial investment in steel roofing may be higher than some other roofing materials, its long lifespan and low maintenance requirements make it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Adaptive and Resilient Design: Amidst the challenges
posed by climate change and other environmental factors, responsible home design emphasizes resilience and adaptability. This entails using durable materials such as steel, which can withstand extreme weather events. By embracing innovative approaches from the outset, your home can be fortified to withstand future uncertainties while helping ensure your safety and comfort.
Social Responsibility: As a durable and versatile material, steel plays a vital role in home construction that withstands the test of time while remaining affordable and accessible. Integrating steel into the design process can contribute to the well-being and prosperity of both individuals and communities, ensuring that the future of housing is socially inclusive and responsible.
To learn more about how steel can benefit your home, visit ussteel.com/hgtv-smart-home.
Whether you’re building a home from scratch or you’re renovating your existing property, using durable, sustainable materials such as steel from US Steel can protect your wallet and the planet.
This article is courtesy of statepoint.net.
