2017 Spring Home Improvement

Monday, March 13, 2017

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Home Improvements That Increase Home Value When granite countertops or shiny, stainless steel appliances attract homeowners from the display areas of home improvement stores, it’s tempting to gear remodeling thoughts toward the items that will add flair and decorative appeal to a home. Even though most improvements add some measure of value, deciding which are the best investments can be difficult.

Return on investment, often referred to as “ROI,” varies depending on the project. Frequently, the projects that seem like the best investments don’t bring the greatest rate of return, while those that seem like smaller projects bring substantial returns. Real estate professionals routinely weigh in with their expert advice, and homeowners can couple that advice with Remodeling magazine’s annual “Cost vs. Value Index” to reap the greatest financial impact from their renovations.

The following were some of the projects that garnered the greatest ROI in 2015.

• Open the door to improvement.

Region by region across the United States, installation of a new steel door on the front of a home can have a large impact on the resale value of a property.

The ROI ranges from 123 percent at the highest, to 86 percent at the lowest — which is still a considerable investment return for such a simple project. Match the door’s style with the style of the house for the best value.

• Turn up the kitchen heat. An attractive kitchen can encourage buyers

to overlook some of a home’s less attractive components. In the kitchen, replacement countertops, wall color changes, new cabinetry and flooring offer the biggest ROI. • Dreaming of a new bedroom.

Remodeling magazine also points to creating an attic bedroom to increase home value. The ROI of an attic remodel that adheres to code can garner an 83 percent ROI. • Home maintenance projects.

There’s little good to improving the aesthetic appeal and functionality of a home if there are existing structural or maintenance issues, warn experts. Siding replacement, HVAC system repair or replacement, a new roof, and basement dampness prevention solutions can be smarter investments before other flashy remodels. Many buyers have a strict budget for a house, and those buyers may be more likely to buy a house with little or no maintenance issues. Such buyers will then upgrade the kitchen or baths themselves, according to Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies.

• Worthy window replacement.

Angie’s List, a home services review and referral resource, has found that the average ROI of new windows is 77 percent. The cost of installation and energy savings tend to offset at around the 10-year point.

If remodeling is on the horizon, homeowners should give strong consideration to ROI before choosing a project.

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How To Make Spring Projects More Eco-friendly

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Proper disposal

Spring cleaning is another tradition for many families come the end of winter and dawn of spring. Many people use spring as a time to go through closets and garages to remove items they no longer use or need. In an effort to clean up fast, some people may dispose of chemical products, paints, treated lumber, and many other items in ways that can be damaging to the environment. Always learn local municipal guidelines for proper disposal of potentially harmful products. Area recycling centers may have drop-off areas for stains and paints, used motor oil and other potentially harmful products.

Before discarding something, see if it can be donated or sold. This will result in fewer items ending up in landfills.

Exercise caution outdoors as well. Runoff from cleaning products used on home siding or driveways can leach into the Flowers and plants surrounding soil or Spring and summer find its way into call to mind beautiful blooming plants. sewage drains that ultimately direct Relying on native, sustainable plants is fluids to public waterways. Choose practical, environmentally friendly and environmentally responsible products cost-effective. whenever possible.

According to the National Wildlife Springtime renovation and cleaning Federation, sustainable plants are native projects provide the perfect opportunity plants. Native plants sustain local wildlife to adopt eco-friendly practices that pay more effectively than non-native dividends for years to come. alternatives, so include native plants in

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Longer days and warmer temperatures often translate into wanting to freshen up the interior of a home. Heavy draperies and comforters are put away, and lighter fabrics are taken out of storage. Whenever possible, reuse or repurpose items you already have rather than purchasing new items.

Longer drapes can be cut and hemmed to be used as window treatments in other rooms. Making a patchwork blanket out of old T-shirts is a crafty project that makes use of items that would otherwise be destined for landfills.

When laundering linens, skip the energy-using dryer and let items line dry in the sun and fresh air.

If you decide to purchase some new items, look for products made from sustainable or organic fabrics. Hemp and bamboo textiles have grown in popularity. Hemp and bamboo plants grow quickly, and their durability makes these materials smart choices.

When replacing items around the house, donate older items to a charitable organization.

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your sustainable garden. Native plants also are less reliant on pesticides and herbicides to keep them healthy and viable.

Don’t forget to bring plants indoors as well. Even though you may be opening the windows more, indoor plants can filter and purify indoor air. The NASA Clean Air Study, led in association with the Associated Landscape Contractors of America, found that certain common indoor plants naturally remove toxic agents such as benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene from the air.

Efficient air cleaning is accomplished with at least one plant per 100 square feet of home or office space.

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The arrival of warmer weather means different things to different people.

Some anticipate opportunities for outdoor fun, while others may be considering redecorating or remodeling their homes. For the latter group, home improvement season provides a great opportunity to make homes more ecofriendly.

When planning home improvement projects, it’s best to first choose a project and then look for ways to make the project more environmentally friendly.

Such an approach may not only benefit the environment, but it also may benefit homeowners’ bottom lines.

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NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

How Building Permits Protect Homeowners

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You are thinking of making a major renovation to your home. Perhaps it’s time to create that master bedroom suite you long have admired or install that wrap-around porch? What is the first thing that should be done before getting down to business?

The correct way to begin a home remodeling project is to obtain the necessary permits for the job. Many municipalities request individuals obtain permits for a range of work on homes or other structures, such as office buildings. Permits are generally required for all new construction as well as specific modifications that will affect structural, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems. It’s important to check with the local building office prior to beginning work to see which permits you will need before the project can begin. Permits are necessary whether a homeowner is doing the work or hiring an outside contractor.

Due to the cost and time involved with securing permits, some homeowners skip this step so they can begin a project promptly. However, this can end up being a costly mistake.

Permits might seem like a nuisance, but they actually protect homeowners in various ways.

workmanship means homeowners can feel confident in the work being done.

Permits reduce the likelihood of costly mistakes

As inspectors go through their checklists, they may notice things that were done incorrectly and will offer advice about how to mend the problem before it becomes a larger headache. If left unchecked, an electrical error could lead to a fire or another dangerous situation. Repairs that are not structurally sound may pose problems or deteriorate more quickly than structures that are constructed correctly. Furthermore, catching improper technique early on eliminates having to tear down and redo work, which can be a costly and timeconsuming endeavor.

Permits protect against fines

Sometimes work goes as planned even for homeowners who did not obtain the necessary permits. However, years later, when other work needs to be done, inspectors may discover homeowners never secured proper permits and inspections years earlier, leading to fines.

Furthermore, if work is done without a permit and an accident occurs, any damages or injuries may not be Permits ensure safe workmanship covered by a homeowner’s insurance Permits provide a blueprint by which policy. contractors and do-it-yourselfers must Permits are an important part of the complete renovations. Because home improvement process. inspections will take place, there is no Homeowners should not skirt the wiggle room. Shortcuts often translate responsibility because the permit and into subpar work that may lead to malfunction and injury in the long run. inspection process is in place to provide protection to occupants.

Safeguarding against poor

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Many homeowners have lofty goals for their homes. Such plans may include extensive renovations or even additions. While many of these projects create beautiful changes in a home, it’s important to consider the impact that renovations can have on property value before beginning a project. Many home improvement projects do not add as much value as homeowners may think they do. In fact, some homeowners “overbuild” for their neighborhoods. This means the amount of money invested in improvements can likely never be recuperated because the house value simply exceeds those around by too much money. To avoid overbuilding, homeowners can ask themselves several questions before beginning a renovation project.

• Will my house be the largest house in the neighborhood? Larger homes tend to have a lower price per square foot, so you may not want to improve to this extent.

• Will the house blend with others in the area? If your house will stick out like a sore thumb, it will detract from its own value and could impact the value of other homes in the area.

• Have I examined the cost vs. value of the project? Many home improvement resources analyze the cost of a project versus the overall value of that project with regard to property value. For example, a $100,000 basement remodel may not add $100,000 to the value of the home in the event you choose to sell down the line. It’s important to know which projects provide the best return on investment.

NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

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Expect The Unexpected When Renovating A Home According to projections released in 2015 by Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies, a growing number of people in the United States planned to renovate their homes in 2016. The report estimated that spending on remodeling

increased across the country. And one only need travel through communities to see a greater number of contractors and homeowners working on homes.

Tackling any renovation project is an exercise in patience. Renovations can impede on daily activities and cause a certain level of upheaval in homeowners’ lives. Homeowners planning renovations also may find that they must have some wiggle room when it comes to both their budgets and their expectations.

Remodeling, particularly with regard to older homes, may unveil unforeseen issues that only arise in the face of the renovation.

So what can homeowners expect during a renovation? The following are a few issues that might arise during home improvement projects.

• Dirt and noise: Homeowners can count on dust, debris and noise throughout the renovation process. Dust appears when walls come down or go up, and construction teams typically erect temporary walls or tarps to contain the debris. Air filtering systems also can limit dust particles. Noise is unavoidable. If it becomes troublesome, arrange to be outside of the home when the bulk of the construction is taking place.

• Delays or schedule changes: Even

and repairs in 2016 would climb 8.6 percent to $310 billion, a figure that is close to the peak reached in 2006.

While it is still too soon to tabulate all of the figures from 2016, a quick glance at the data indicates renovations have

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the best contractors cannot control every aspect of the job. They rely on subcontractors and vendors to do portions of the work. Materials may not always arrive on time, or they may fall short of homeowners’ expectations. This can push back the project schedule. Homeowners should hope for everything to be done on time, but it can be less stressful if homeowners anticipate delays and be a pleasant surprise if there are no delays.

• Hidden issues: Contractors may uncover all sorts of issues that need to be addressed before a project can progress.

Examples include the presence of asbestos (common in older homes), plumbing problems, incorrectly wired electrical systems, and leaks or moisture issues. These problems also can impact the cost of the project, so set aside some money in the budget for unforeseen expenses. Chances are you are going to need some extra money to handle a few surprises during the project.

It’s important to expect the unexpected when embarking on home renovations. Budgeting for hidden costs, expecting delays and coping with the upheaval to daily schedules are par for the remodeling course. However, the end result is often well worth the time and effort.

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Kick Off Home Improvement Season With Easy Maintenance Projects (MS) — By Scott McGillivray As the days get longer and the weather improves, this is the time to make sure that our homes or rental properties are well maintained. Here are a few do-it-yourself projects to keep your home in tip-top shape: • Top up your attic insulation. Many older homes have inadequate levels of insulation in the attic that wouldn’t meet today’s building code. Topping it up will help reduce energy consumption and keep your house cooler in the summer months. A great product for this task is Roxul ComfortBatt insulation. It’s easy to install, cuts simply with a serrated blade or bread knife and protects against fire, moisture and mold. Aim for a depth of 16 inches or an R-value of 50. Insulating properly could also provide added benefits, such as improving the longevity of your air conditioner by reducing stress on the unit as temperatures rise.

• Inspect your roof and make minor repairs. Winter can be especially hard on a roof. Look for ice, hail or water damage. Replace any cracked or missing shingles and clear any debris.

• Clean your gutters. It’s not glamorous work, but your home’s gutters play an essential role in moving water away from your home and preventing damage. Consider installing gutter guards to ensure your gutters remain functional and free from debris.

• Inspect windows and doors and recaulk where necessary. Because a proper seal is essential in both heating and cooling seasons, this job should be performed twice a year to protect against drafts and moisture, and to

keep insects out. Worn weatherstripping should also be replaced.

Other simple jobs include fixing leaky faucets, repairing and resealing decks, inspecting the foundation and scheduling a checkup for your HVAC system. The key is being honest about what you can handle and, when in doubt, call in the pros.

Scott McGillivray is the awardwinning TV host of the hit series Income Property, a full-time real estate investor, contractor, author, and educator. Follow him on Twitter @smcgillivray.

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How To Make Existing Windows More Energy Efficient Drafty windows make homes less comfortable by allowing cold air in during the winter and warm air in when temperatures rise. But comfort is not the only concern associated with leaky windows, as such fixtures also can have a negative impact on the environment.

Leaky windows require heating and cooling systems to work harder to keep home interiors comfortable during times of the year when temperatures can be extreme. In the dead of winter, a leaky window will force a home’s inhabitants to turn up the thermostat, which only increases energy consumption and energy bills. The same scenario plays out in summer, when leaky windows allow hot air in, leading homeowners to lower the temperature of air conditioning units so everyone inside is cool and comfortable.

Thankfully, making windows more energy efficient does not necessarily require homeowners to replace existing windows. Before going that potentially expensive route, homeowners can consider the following strategies to improve the energy efficiency of their windows.

• Hang curtains. Curtains can help homeowners cut down on heating and cooling costs. According to the U.S.

Department of Energy, properly hung draperies can reduce heat loss by as much as 25 percent. In the summer, curtains can block the hot rays from the sun from entering a home, reducing the need to turn up air conditioning units.

While curtains won’t fix leaks or block hot or cold air from entering a home, they can serve as a buffer between a home’s inhabitants and the air seeping in through leaks.

• Caulk or add weatherstripping.

Small cracks and gaps around windows, which are most often found around windows in older buildings, might not seem like a big deal, but such breaches can lead to considerable energy loss.

Using caulk to seal cracks that are less than 1⁄4-inch wide on the parts of the window that do not move (i.e., frames and where the trim meets the wall).

Caulk might be less effective at fixing leaks larger than 1⁄4 inch in width.

Employ weatherstripping to address leaks on movable parts of the window.

Properly applied weatherstripping should adequately seal windows when they are closed without making it difficult to open or close them later on.

Weatherstripping is available in various materials, and homeowners can visit www.energy.gov/energysaver/

weatherstripping to find the material that’s most suitable for their situation.

• Install windows films. Plastic window films are another option for homeowners looking to improve the energy efficiency of their windows. Heat shrink film can be cut to fit each individual leaky window in a home and then attached to windows using doublesided tape. A hair dryer can then be used to shrink the film and remove any wrinkles. Low-emissivity, or Low-E, coatings are a more expensive

alternative to heat shrink film, and they can be equally effective at improving energy efficiency. Installation of Low-E coatings can be more difficult, as they do not provide as much leeway for mistakes during application as heat shrink film.

Leaky windows are bad for homeowners’ energy bills and the environment. But homeowners have options other than full window replacements to fix leaks and improve efficiency.

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Bring More Natural Light Into A Home Maximizing natural light in a home is a smart and sometimes low-cost renovation. Homes that are dark and drab can drain energy levels and reduce productivity. In addition, dark rooms may not be inviting places to gather as a family or when entertaining.

Certain factors contribute to a dark home. Houses that face north or east may not get the same level of sunlight as those that primarily face south and west. Geographic location also plays a role in the amount of natural sunlight.

Mountains, buildings and even latitude can affect the amount of natural light that enters a home.

The style of a home and its attributes also may create dark conditions. Deep house eaves as well as small windows or too few windows also can contribute to a loss of light indoors.

A major remodel certainly can remedy the situation. However, there also are other less-extensive strategies to improve natural light.

• Assess the situation before renovating. Walk around the house and determine which rooms get the most light and which conditions may be contributing to the problem in other areas. Dark floors and walls may be absorbing natural light and compounding the situation. You may

find that only one or two rooms need attention, saving you the cost and effort associated with a major home overhaul.

• Lighten up window treatments.

Heavy drapes or thick blinds can be replaced with translucent alternatives.

Translucent shades will allow light into the room without compromising privacy, say the experts at HGTV. • Use mirrors strategically. A mirror placed opposite a window will reflect light all around the room. This can make a small room seem larger and a dark space instantly brighter.

• Install new windows and doors. If the budget allows, installing larger windows in a home will allow more natural light in. French doors or sliding doors also may make a home’s interior more bright. Think about adding windows to a side of the house that has none, or increase the size of the windows on the side of the house that gets the most light.

• Maximize sunlight from above.

Skylights will bring light into a home as the sun passes overhead. Tubular skylights can bring natural sunlight into spaces where you may not expect skylights to be practical. According to Houzz, a design and architectural resource, tubular daylighting devices,

or TDDs, can make a big difference.

TDDs are reflective pipes installed between the roof and ceiling, with a clear plastic dome.

• Use reflective decor. Reflective surfaces, including glass and metal, can brighten up a room and diffuse light around a room. Glossy backsplashes, pendant lighting and shiny metal that reflect light can increase the natural light, balancing out dark spaces.

• Prune trees regularly. Cut back branches and keep trees tidy to

maximize sunlight. Avoid planting tall shrubbery in front of windows.

• Routinely clean windows and glass doors. Dirt and other grime can prevent light from getting through.

Regularly give windows a thorough washing.

Natural light is an important commodity in a home. Sunlight can improve mood and go a long way toward keeping home occupants healthy and happy.

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Nearly everyone has experienced a sticking door that just will not close properly. This problem may become more noticeable when temperatures rise and humidity contributes to the swelling of wood doors and frames.

According to The Family Handyman, a home improvement resource, the standard remedy for alleviating a sticking door is to remove the door and pare down the edges that are rubbing so that the door will once again swing freely. While this can solve the problem, it can be a hassle, as it requires refinishing the pared-down edge and rehanging the door. Try these shortcuts first before creating more work than might be necessary.

• Identify the problem area and rub it with a dry bar of soap. This should reduce friction and allow the door to close more easily.

• Remove humidity with a dehumidifier or by running an air conditioning unit.

• Check for loose hinges or sagging around the hinge. Tighten the fasteners to sure up the door and create better alignment.

• Spray the hinges with lubricant if you suspect sticking is originating because of squeaky hinges.

• Look for obstructions at the bottom of the door. Is the door dragging on carpeting or being caught on something on the floor? It may be a matter of simply clearing away the obstruction.

NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

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Paint Your Home’s Exterior Like A Pro Painting is an inexpensive way to transform just about any space. Many people paint the interiors of their homes, but home exteriors also can undergo dramatic makeovers with fresh coats of paint. Timing the job right and heeding some tips from professionals and do-ityourselfers who have tread the painting path before you can make the job go smoothly.

Employ a chlorine bleach solution to kill any mildew and to scrub any dirt from the house. In addition, repair any cracks or imperfections. For example, if you’re painting stucco, you may have to fill in any pitting or holes. Use this opportunity to inspect caulking around windows and doors. Recaulk as needed to seal up drafty areas or those that may cause water infiltration prior to painting.

Consider the time of year

Prime and cover stains

Consider local weather patterns and forecasts when planning an exterior painting project. Choose a time of year when there is little rain and low humidity, such as autumn. Keep in mind that the paint will require a couple of days to dry completely and cure, and that can be difficult in damp weather. Don’t hamper the final outcome with poor timing.

Prepare the painting surfaces

Resist the temptation to start painting straight away. Paint may not adhere to unprepared surfaces, and dirt and other debris may show through and mar the finished product. Repainting a home’s exterior will likely involve removing peeling or chipping paint prior to making your first strokes. Wear protective gear when scraping, sanding or brushing old paint, as such tasks can generate dust that can be dangerous to inhale, particularly if the old paint contains lead.

otherwise, the colors may not match perfectly.

The experts at HGTV recommend working your way from top to bottom in a smooth, controlled manner, overlapping each stroke by eight inches. Trim and hardto-reach areas should be left for brush work so you can maintain control over your tools.

It may be a little extra work, but apply a quality primer as the first coat to hide any imperfections, such as wood knots or discoloration from weathering. Primer provides a smooth, even surface upon which to put your paint color. Once you have applied the primer, test your paint color in a small, inconspicuous spot to see how the color looks in the daylight. You do not want to paint the entire home only to find out you dislike the color.

Try these painting techniques

Rent a paint sprayer for large surface areas. The sprayer will produce a more uniform application and is less timeconsuming than painting everything with a brush or roller. Make sure you’ve chosen a high-quality paint, as the added expense is worth it if the paint lasts longer and coats more evenly. Also, if you have purchased multiple cans of paint, mix them all in one large bucket to ensure the same color;

How To Create An Effective Workflow In The Kitchen Bathroom and kitchen makeovers are some of the most coveted and profitable improvements that can be made to a home.

Installing new cabinetry, countertops and appliances can transform the look of a kitchen, but homeowners also must consider the functionality of design when renovating.

The National Kitchen and Bath Association suggests applying the kitchen “work triangle,” which is a concept used to create efficient kitchen layouts. The triangle comprises imaginary straight lines drawn from the cooking appliance, sink and refrigerator. These are where much of the work in the kitchen takes place. The general idea is that when the work triangle is positioned accordingly — with the three components in close proximity to one another — the kitchen is easier and more efficient to use. Homeowners will be able to move freely among these elements when they are placed at appropriate distances, reducing wasted steps.

The NKBA suggests following these

guidelines to create efficient kitchens.

• No major traffic patterns should cross through the triangle.

• The sum of the work triangle’s three sides should not exceed 26 feet. Each portion of the triangle should be between four and nine feet.

• Avoid cutting through an island or a peninsula.

• If the kitchen has only one sink, it should be placed between or across from the cooking surface, preparation area or refrigerator.

The work triangle is a suggestion, not a law of design. As kitchens evolve and more people use them simultaneously, designers may take certain liberties — even having multiple triangles at play. Homeowners should also design their kitchens so they function best for their own individual lifestyles.

Kitchen layout can be just as important as the decor and appliances within the kitchen.

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If you are painting areas like steps or staircases, consider adding a little finegrain sand to the paint to improve traction, as paint can be slippery when wet.

If painting your home’s exterior is beyond your capabilities, hire a professional. He or she will get the work done in a timely manner, and you can rest assured that the job will be done correctly.

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NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

Steps To A More Organized, Functional Garage

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Organization can help homeowners transform their homes into less cramped, more spacious oases without forcing them to finance potentially expensive expansion projects.

Homeowners who park in their driveways may find that their garages have become crowded, cluttered spaces in which searching for tools can feel like scouring a haystack in search of a needle. Organizing a garage can create extra room in a home while affording homeowners the chance to protect their vehicles from the elements. Homeowners who want to turn their garages into something more than cluttered storage units can employ the following strategies to transform these largely overlooked areas into more valuable spaces.

• Choose the right day. Garages tend to be separate from the rest of the homes they’re a part of, meaning the only way to organize a garage is to first remove all items from the garage and into the driveway. Because items removed from the garage will be exposed to the elements, homeowners should choose a day that’s temperate and sunny to clean their garages. If possible, homeowners should opt to organize their garages in late spring, summer or early fall when there are additional hours of daylight. This protects homeowners from having to work in the dark should the job take longer than they initially anticipated.

• Discard or donate duplicate items. Duplicate items are some of the main culprits behind cluttered garages.

As garages gradually become more cluttered, homeowners may buy tools they already have simply because they cannot find their original tools. When

organizing the garage, create separate piles for duplicate tools, placing stilluseful items in a pile that can be donated to neighbors, local charities or organizations and another pile for old tools that are no longer useful.

• Host a garage sale. Homeowners who want to organize their garages and make a buck at the same time can host garage sales. Make only those items that are still functional available for purchase, and let neighbors and bargain hunters do the bulk of your organization work for you.

• Designate areas of the garage for certain items. Once the items that won’t be going back into the garage have been sold, donated or discarded, organize the garage by designating areas for certain items, making sure to separate items that can pose safety risks. For example, store kids’ bicycles and outdoor toys in a corner of the garage that is opposite the corner where potentially dangerous items such as power tools and gas cans will be stored. Keep the center of the garage open for vehicles.

• Periodically park cars in the garage. Homeowners who are comfortable parking their vehicles in their driveways can improve their chances of maintaining organized garages over the long haul by periodically parking in the garage.

Doing so not only prevents the gradual buildup of clutter that can slowly take over a garage, but also protects homeowners’ automotive investments.

Maintaining an organized garage can help homeowners make more practical use of the space in their homes.

NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

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The Benefits Of Hiring Professional Contractors The DIY movement has inspired many homeowners to tackle home repair and remodeling projects on their own. DIY projects can be rewarding, and many homeowners who have embraced the DIY movement have discovered talents they never before knew they had.

But no matter how simple popular home renovation television shows make remodeling projects appear, homeowners should know that such undertakings are far more difficult than they appear on television.

Homeowners who overestimate their abilities and the time they have to complete projects can cost themselves substantial amounts of money. In fact, there are a variety of reasons homeowners might want to work with professional contractors when tackling home improvement projects.

dangerous, not to mention costly.

Experienced professional contractors with strong track records (seek recommendations from friends or neighbors) won’t have to go through trial and error and are therefore more likely than DIYers to complete a project on time and on budget.

Experience

Inspiration

A trial and error approach can work with various projects and problems. But applying such an approach to home improvement projects is risky and potentially

One oft-overlooked benefit of working with professional contractors is the likelihood that they can draw up ideas for projects that homeowners might otherwise never have thought up on their own. Homeowners without specific ideas in mind can ask contractors to come up with various scenarios before committing to a particular one. Veteran contractors can draw on years of experience to create designs that DIYers might be incapable of coming up with and/or incapable of seeing through to completion.

contracted projects, but homeowners can cut those costs by volunteering to do some of the simpler tasks themselves. In addition, contractors often purchase materials at a much lower cost than individual homeowners because contractors buy in bulk. So while labor costs might be lower on DIY projects, the cost of materials can offset those savings.

Resale value

Many homeowners renovate their homes with eyes on improving the resale value of those homes. But if homeowners want to showcase a newly remodeled kitchen when selling their homes, they should be prepared for prospective buyers to ask who worked on the project. Fearing potential problems down the road, some buyers might be put off by homes that were remodeled by DIYers and not professional contractors.

Renovating a home on your own Cost Conventional wisdom suggests it’s can be a rewarding project for homeowners. But it’s important that less expensive to do something yourself than to hire someone else to homeowners recognize the many do it for you, but that’s not necessarily benefits of working with professional true of home improvement projects. contractors before making any final decisions with regard to who will Labor costs typically account for a substantial amount of professionally tackle their next project.

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NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

Learn How To Prevent DIY Injuries Thousands of people try their hands at do-it-yourself home improvement projects every year. Whether working indoors or outdoors, wearing safety gear and exercising caution is a necessity when undertaking any home remodeling project.

According to the Home Safety Council, one in five consumers will need medical attention this year as a result of home improvement projects. A 2013 survey by 3M TEKK Protection and the National Safety Council found that more than one-quarter of DIY home improvement projects ended with injuries to homeowners or someone else in the household. Falls from ladders, cuts from power tools and injuries from thrown debris account for many emergency room visits. Accidents involving chemicals and cleaning agents also can occur. Safety should be the utmost priority when renovating, and that means utilizing appropriate safety equipment.

your foot is encased in a protective boot or sturdy shoe. Soles that grip surfaces will help safeguard against slips and falls.

Footwear

Ventilation and respiratory protection

Wear solid shoes that provide considerable traction during home improvements. A firm, reinforced toe is helpful as well. Should any items fall, they’ll be less likely to cause injury if

Eye protection

Safety goggles and glasses are a musthave for any do-it-yourselfer. They will provide a barrier between the eye and flying debris. According to VisionWeb, an eye education resource, most of the 110,000 eye injuries that occur each year in homes within the United States result from splashes with household cleaners, flying debris such as wood chips, or getting hit by branches. Many of these injuries can be prevented by wearing eye protection.

Ear protection

Power tools can be quite loud. When operating loud, powered machinery, use earplugs or safety earmuffs to reduce the risk of damage to hearing and potential hearing loss.

When working with chemicals and other products that have strong odors and/or emit particulates into the air, make sure you do so in well-ventilated areas. This will help dissipate the smell

and prevent inhalation of concentrated chemical substances. Masks guard against dust, pollen and some other microscopic particles and may not provide enough protection, depending on the job. The Home Depot suggests using particulate or filtration respirators when performing tasks, such as sanding, where you might be exposed to particles. Gas and vapor respirators offer protection against additional substances.

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Create a safe environment

When working at home, make sure to use tools in the manner in which they were designed. Keep power cords tidy so they do not pose a tripping hazard. Falls from ladders often occur when climbing above the recommended rung or engaging in risky behavior while on the ladder, such as reaching or hanging over too far.

When outdoors, exercise caution in inclement weather, which can make it harder to work safely. Be sure there are no bystanders too close when using power tools or tools that can kick up debris.

The right safety gear and some smart do-ityourself techniques can help DIYers avoid injury.

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NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

Make The Most Of Mulching

MILLER LANDSCAPING

Lawns and gardens can often benefit from the laying of mulch. Mulch serves various purposes in lawns and gardens, and many experienced lawn and garden enthusiasts lay mulch to ensure their properties make it through spring, summer and fall unscathed.

First-time homeowners with little or no landscaping experience may not understand the benefits of mulch, which can be used to strengthen soil and protect properties from the elements.

survive summer, need light to grow.

When laid correctly, mulch deprives weeds of the light they need to grow.

Organic mulches can even provide homes for crickets and a type of beetle that feed on weed seeds.

Mulch also can deter harmful pests depending on the type of mulch homeowners choose. When purchasing mulch, homeowners will have to choose between the aforementioned organic mulch or man-made mulches, which may be made of plastic or rubber. While What is mulch? man-made mulches may repel Mulch refers to a material spread pests, they also can have adverse around or over a plant to effects.

Plastic, for enrich and/or insulate its example, can heat up in the soil. Many homeowners summer and cause plants prefer mulch made of to burn. Certain organic wood chips, which is mulches can repel both effective and insects that can readily available. threaten plants. That’s The U.S. because the Environmental majority of Protection Agency organic mulches notes that organic increase the mulches, which include amount of leaves, wood chips, compost beneficial bacteria in or grass clippings, can be the soil, and they also used by homeowners who want increase the presence of to develop eco-friendly landscapes. helpful insects that do not pose a threat to plant life.

Those helpful insects Why mulch? help keep harmful insects at bay.

Mulching can benefit plants around a Compost is a type of organic mulch that property in various ways. Many people may attract harmful insects. While that lay mulch because the mulch helps soil does not mean homeowners should shy retain moisture in the summer, when away from using compost as mulch, they temperatures tend to be at their hottest. should know that they may need to This can help plants survive summer employ organic insecticides to combat heat waves. their unwanted guests.

Mulch also can be used to suppress Mulch is a potentially valuable tool weeds. Weeds, which steal moisture homeowners can use to improve the plants need to build strong roots and look and health of their properties.

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NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

Debunking Myths About Home Garbage Disposals (StatePoint) Over half of all Americans have a garbage disposal.

Unfortunately, many may not be properly maintained due to common misconceptions.

The experts at Moen, a leading manufacturer of kitchen and bathroom fixtures, are debunking the common misconceptions of using a garbage disposal to help homeowners keep their disposals running at peak performance.

Some of the most commonly

believed myths are that ice will sharpen disposal blades, lemons will eliminate odors, and hot water should always be used when running the disposal. It’s important to understand what will help improve a garbage disposal’s performance to keep the machine running efficiently.

“At the end of the day, if you don’t have a reliable, quality machine, your care tactics won’t make a difference,” says Cassy Osborne, senior marketing manager at Moen. Osborne. “Look for a disposal with a powerful motor that operates quickly to effectively grind particles and help reduce jamming.”

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NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

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Pitch In And Save Money

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Home improvement projects can be expensive. While the size and complexity of a project will affect how expensive the project is, homeowners can expect to shell out a pretty penny when they renovate or remodel areas of their home.

According to HomeAdvisor, an online resource for homeowners looking to connect with home improvement, maintenance and repair professionals, the average bathroom remodeling project costs $9,348, while the average home addition costs slightly less than $41,000. But renovation-minded homeowners need not reconsider their commitment to remodeling, as there are various ways to cut the costs associated with home improvement projects.

One such way is for homeowners to pitch in and do some of the work themselves. Calculating labor costs can be difficult, as such costs can vary greatly depending on the project, the contractor and the amount of hired help that contractor intends to employ.

However, some estimates suggest labor will account for anywhere from 25 to 50 percent of the overall cost of the project. So it’s no surprise that homeowners can save themselves substantial amounts of money by doing some of the work themselves.

Homeowners who intend to do some of the labor themselves should discuss this plan with contractors during the vetting process. Before hiring a contractor, make sure homeowners’ expected labor contributions are clearly defined in the contract.

While it’s best to leave the most complicated parts of a project to the professionals, homeowners can pitch in during the following phases.

• Demolition: Demolition involves more than picking up a sledgehammer and swinging away. Some demolition projects are best left to the pros. For example, any projects that involve exposure to hazardous materials are risky and therefore best left to experienced laborers. However, many homeowners are capable of safely and effectively pulling cabinets from walls, removing flooring or knocking down drywall. Homeowners unsure of how to approach demolition tasks can ask their contractors to demonstrate the proper technique so the demolition is done right and on time.

• Salvage: Removing debris and items that will no longer be needed once the renovation is complete is another way homeowners can pitch in.

Homeowners remodeling their kitchens may be replacing their existing stoves and refrigerators and hoping to

donate these items. In such instances, driving the items to the donation site or arranging for them to be picked up rather than taken off the premises by the contractor or his employees can cut labor costs, as it allows laborers to keep working toward the end goal rather than requiring them to leave the work site to drop unwanted items off.

• Cleanup: Homeowners also can save costs by cleaning up after the

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contractors at the end of each workday.

Speak with the contractor about cleaning up the site each day, asking him or her what can be discarded and what must remain on-site.

Home improvements are costly. But homeowners who are capable of pitching in can greatly reduce the overall cost of their next renovation project.

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NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

Alarming Survey Shows Poor Home Maintenance Habits (StatePoint) Proper home maintenance can preserve your home, while saving you money and headaches in the future. However, a new survey from Erie Insurance conducted by Harris Poll reveals Americans have alarmingly poor upkeep habits.

“By overlooking common DIY projects, homeowners are not only putting themselves at risk for major financial loss, but also are exposing their families to dangerous hazards,” says Joe Vahey, vice president and product manager at Erie Insurance.

In an effort to help people become more aware of what they can be doing to protect themselves, the experts at Erie Insurance list five commonly overlooked areas of the home that should be regularly inspected and maintained:

Inspect Your Roof

Replacing or repairing a roof is one of the biggest expenses a homeowner may have and the need to do it often comes without warning. Nationally, the average homeowner spends about $6,600 to install a new roof, according to

HomeAdvisor, but prices can soar upwards of $20,000 depending on certain factors.

But the Erie Insurance survey found that nearly one in four homeowners (23 percent) admits they never inspect their roof or have it inspected only if there is a problem.

Even scarier, nearly a third (27 percent) of those who own a house either mistakenly believe their insurance will pay for damage that occurs to their roof over time, such as through normal wear and tear or have no idea how their insurance works regarding this type of damage. Insurance generally only covers things like roof damage from unexpected storms.

Unclog Gutters and Downspouts

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Nearly one out of four homeowners (24 percent) say they never care for their gutters and downspouts.

Clogged gutters can cause water to flow down the sides of a home and pool around its foundation, often leading to major issues like uneven floors, cracks in walls and interior water damage. This type of claim, also

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known as seepage, is often not covered under your home insurance policy.

Clean Out Dryer Exhaust

One in five homeowners (21 percent) admit they never clean their clothes dryer ducts, unless they have a problem. Unfortunately, the most common cause of dryer fires is failure to do a thorough cleaning.

According to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), dryers cause roughly 15,500 home structure fires, 29 deaths, 400 injuries and $192 million in direct property loss each year.

Clean Sump Pump and Pit

Sump pumps are used to remove excess water from homes, but 44 percent of those who own one admit to never cleaning it or the pit, unless they have a problem. Water damage due to sewage and drain backups generally requires additional insurance coverage beyond a Check the Furnace standard policy. Without that Only 36 percent of homeowners coverage, it could end up costing have their furnaces inspected and you, on average, $2,156, according to Home Advisor.

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serviced at least once a year.

According to NFPA, U.S. fire departments respond to an estimated average of 56,000 home fires involving heating equipment.

These fires resulted in annual losses of 470 civilian deaths, 1,490 civilian injuries, and $1 billion in direct property damage per year.

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NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

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How To Replace Energy-hungry Appliances Home improvement projects often involve remodeling. But homeowners can improve their homes without ever picking up a hammer. Upgrading a home’s appliances with products that are more eco-friendly can add value to a home and make the home more attractive to buyers who want their homes to look good and pay dividends for the environment.

The United States Department of Energy says the average American family spends about $2,200 each year for energy costs, and large, inefficient appliances no doubt contribute heavily to those expenditures. Appliances that are several years old, including refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, and even ovens, may no longer meet the stringent energy-saving specifications required of new items.

That means such appliances are negatively affecting the environment and their owners’ bottom lines.

According to the Energy Star program, a refrigerator that is at least 15 years old may be consuming twice as much energy as a newer Energy Star-rated refrigerator. Even though purchasing new appliances will require a financial commitment, such items

may help save money while benefitting the environment at the same time.

Read the label

Think about future salability

Familiarize yourself with the “EnergyGuide” label that appears on most appliances. This label gives consumers an idea as to how much it will cost to run the appliance, as well as how much energy the unit uses on average. Use this label to compare the different models you are considering.

Choose appliances that are part of the Energy Star program, which helps consumers find products that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Homeowners who do not intend to stay in their homes much longer may find energy efficient appliances make

(StatePoint) It may seem like a small detail, but the way you light your home can have a big impact on the environment and your energy bills.

Indeed, widespread use of lightemitting diode (LED) lighting has the greatest potential impact on energy savings in the United States, according to government findings.

LED bulbs that bring energy-efficient lighting to communities in need.

Leading the charge are forwardthinking companies, such as ProVia, a manufacturer of home renovation products, including energy-efficient entry doors, replacement windows, vinyl siding and manufactured stone.

ProVia is also donating LED light bulbs to Habitat for Humanity and Add it Up encouraging their employees to get on Using at least 75 percent less energy board personally by making a and lasting 25 times longer than commitment to purchase ENERGY incandescent lighting, residential STAR-certified LED light bulbs.

LEDs, especially ENERGY STARWith these kinds of efforts taking rated products, can help you place nationwide, LED adoption in significantly reduce the cost of lighting local communities is expected to your home. And this is truer than ever, continue to rise.

To learn more about as the price of this technology has the campaign, visit provia.com/change. declined and the uses for it have expanded. Even LED decorative holiday lighting can be purchased these Take the Time Swapping out traditional bulbs for days, giving consumers more energy-efficient alternatives is a simple opportunities to light their homes and home project that requires no special lives efficiently. skills or tools, just a commitment to lowering one’s carbon footprint. Take Community Efforts an afternoon to make this simple swap Community efforts are helping to that promises to have a long-lasting make sweeping change and brighten lives. For example, the Environmental and major impact.

Protection Agency’s “Change the Actions taken by individuals may World Tour,” is a national program feel small, but on a collective scale, designed to motivate consumers to greening your home means greening purchase ENERGY STAR-certified your community and the larger world.

Large appliances tend to consume more energy than small appliances.

Scaling down the size of the appliance can reduce energy consumption.

Empty nesters may no longer need a refrigerator capable of holding food for a family of four, while those who routinely dine out may find they don’t get much use out of their larger refrigerator.

Look for rebate programs

Rebate and recycling programs can help reduce the initial cost of purchasing new appliances. The

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their homes more attractive to prospective buyers.

Energy efficient appliances can reduce homeowners’ carbon footprints while also saving them considerable amounts of money over the life of the products.

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NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

Reduce Radon In Your Home Radon is an odorless, invisible gas that may be lurking in homes even if homeowners are unaware of its presence. Although it is a naturally occurring substance, radon has the potential to cause serious illness.

Therefore, its detection and reduction are paramount.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Surgeon General’s Office have estimated that as many as 20,000 lung cancer deaths are caused each year by radon, which is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. The EPA further notes that many homes are in radon danger areas. Nearly one in three homes checked in seven states and on three lands designated for Native Americans had screening levels over 4 pCi/L, the EPA’s recommended action level for radon exposure. According to Air Chek, Inc., a radon testing resource, a radon level of 4 pCi/l is equal to approximately 35 times as much radiation as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission would allow if a person was standing next to the fence of a radioactive waste site.

Testing can determine if radon is present in a home. Homeowners can

rely on professional companies or purchase self-testing kits at home improvement retailers. If a test comes back positive for high levels, conduct a follow-up test before taking any measures to fix the problem. Unusual weather can increase radon levels. If repeat testing yields the same results, efforts to reduce radon levels are necessary.

Homeowners must keep in mind that no two situations are the same and various techniques may be necessary to reduce radon levels in a home. Simply opening the windows in a home may not be enough, and many radon remedies require the skilled services of professional contractors who are experienced in radon reduction procedures. Homes can be fixed, but some instances may be best left to the professionals.

One of the most popular methods of reducing radon concentrations involves a process called active soil depressurization, or ASD. This is a cost-effective and reliable technique to reduce radon that involves capturing the radon from beneath a building before it can enter the dwelling. A

venting system draws the radon gas from the soil beneath the foundation and exhausts it outside of the building — far away from windows and other home openings. A continuously operating fan draws and discharges the radon outdoors.

Radon that has infiltrated water supplies may require other removal methods. Such methods may require spraying water into a contained air space, introducing air bubbles into the water or storing water in a tank until the radon has decayed.

Another method employs granular activated carbon (GAC) to remove radon from the water. The GAC method has been more widely tested and is more commonly used in individual homes, according to the EPA.

Because radon removal often requires a specific skill set, it is a job better left to professionals. Opening windows and allowing natural ventilation may help, but a more longterm approach to radon removal might be most appropriate.

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NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

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How To Find The Right Replacement Windows Replacing old windows is often a worthwhile investment for homeowners. Energy-efficient windows can prevent heating and cooling loss and keep homes more comfortable throughout the year. Such windows also can improve a home’s resale value, proving a good return on investment for homeowners who want to upgrade their homes before putting them on the market.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners might find it more cost-effective to replace very old and/or inefficient windows to improve their energy efficiency. Such an upgrade can save homeowners substantial amounts of money on heating and cooling costs.

Window replacement projects can be costly, so it pays to get the job right the first time. Before beginning a window replacement project, homeowners should research which windows will meet their specific needs, learning the subtleties between finishes and features, as well as comparing prices for the windows and installation.

Choose the right time of year

The best time of year to plan window replacement is when the weather will be warm, ideally in the spring or early summer. However, homeowners do not want conditions to be too warm, as each

room where new windows will be installed will temporarily be exposed to the elements. Furthermore, caulk adheres better in warmer weather and will dispense easily.

Consider available features

When replacing windows, homeowners may want to install the same style windows they currently have.

But the problems that led to the need to replace windows may still exist even when new windows are installed. When replacing windows, consider energy performance ratings based on the locations of the windows in the house.

To make sure they make the most educated decision, homeowners can investigate the solar heat gain coefficient, U-factor, visible transmittance and light-to-solar gain.

Explanations of these ratings are available at Energy.gov.

Keep home style in mind

A poor match between windows and the style of the home can produce unwanted changes in the appearance of the home. Replacement windows should match the style and appearance desired.

Expect minimal disruption

When homeowners hire professionals who are good at their craft, window replacement projects should not be a terrible inconvenience.

According to American Window Products, Inc., seasoned professionals will be able to complete a replacement window upgrade in a short amount of time depending on the size of the home and the number of windows being replaced.

Replacing windows can be a costly task, but one that will provide a more energy efficient home that can help homeowners save money in the long run.

Don’t ignore maintenance needs

Maintenance costs involved with cleaning, repairs and painting can add up. When shopping for windows, consider the amount of maintenance they will need. Wood-framed windows may require more upkeep than aluminum, fiberglass or vinyl. Also, consider if certain window types, such as double-hung windows, casement windows, awning windows, or slider windows, would be practical.

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NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

Tools Of The Home Renovator’s Trade Home renovation projects can be both exciting and tricky. Do-ityourselfers are inspired by designs showcased in magazines, websites and their own communities. When DIY enthusiasts see a design they like, it’s understandable that they may want to emulate these looks at home.

Remodeling is one of the larger DIY undertakings, and it goes beyond simple carpentry. Considering demolition, reconstruction, electrical, plumbing, and masonry work may be part of the DIY package, homeowners who are thinking about renovations must first stock up on the tools and other supplies of the trade. Having the right tools can mean the difference between a job well done and a job that needs to be redone.

• Crowbar or prybar: Before you can put in new construction, you might have to get your hands dirty with some demolition. Crowbars or prybars can be used to pry up wood slats, remove nails or remove old decking.

• Tool pouch: A tool and fastener

pouch gives DIYers a place other than their pockets to store fasteners and hand tools. Pouches can be attached to tool belts for added storage capacity.

• Stud finder: Invest in a more foolproof method of locating studs behind drywall then knocking on the wall.

Stud finders can provide a picture of studs, pipes and other hidden items inside an entire length of wall. This is essential to driving nails where they belong and can also prevent sending fasteners into wires or nearby plumbing.

• Level: A level is an essential tool for everyone from casual decorators to more involved renovators. Whether hanging pictures or ensuring molding is parallel, levels are must-have tools for DIYers.

• Safety glasses: Invest in a pair of safety glasses so no one working on a project deals with obstructed vision.

Safety glasses also provide ample eye protection.

• Extension cords: If power tools are part of the renovation picture,

extension cords can safely extend power where it is needed. Be sure to invest in a gauge that is large enough to handle the amperage of your most powerful tool.

• Measuring tape: The “measure twice, cut once” mantra is key to home improvements. To measure accurately each and every time, no tool chest is complete without a sturdy measuring tape.

• Ladder varieties: Home improvements aren’t always at ground level. Purchase ladders of various heights so you can safely reach various

The Popularity Of The Color White White is a versatile color in home decorating and renovation. White helps any space look effortlessly chic, blends well with just about any color and can be incorporated into various design styles — from modern to traditional.

White can be used nearly anywhere inside and outside the home.

Improving interior and exterior spaces with white elements is easier than you might think, and it instantly can make anything look as good as new.

Kitchen

While rich cherrywood cabinets and deeply hued granite countertops have long been popular in kitchens, creamy white cabinets paired with blonde wood countertops can work together to make kitchens seem open and airy. If all white is not your thing, brighten up kitchen spaces with white canisters, cookie jars and a fresh bouquet of white flowers to add instant appeal.

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areas of the home and avoid injury.

Step stools, a step ladder and an extension ladder all have their purposes on the job.

• Digital inspection scope: A scope lets you see inside walls, floors and ceilings to find the exact location of pipes, wires and joists. It also can be used to seek out the source of clogged drains or anywhere you desire sight into hard-to-maneuver areas.

In addition to these tools, brooms, shop-vacs, hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches and pliers can complete a DIYer’s basic toolbox.

see fit. A neutral white base makes it easy to switch out color schemes whenever you feel like it.

Bedroom

Feminine and fresh, white bedrooms may not be the first choice for rookie designers. If the prospect of white on white seems too sterile, offset deeper hues on bed linens and walls with white furniture. This provides some pop against the darker contrast.

Keep in mind that doing a bed up in all white means it will always be easy to find matching sheets and pillowcases, making it possible to ensure everything looks cohesive and crisp.

Outdoors

Use white paint on trims, shutters, mailboxes, and more to provide that pop of contrast against the rest of the home. White complements just about every color, making it a versatile choice on a home’s accents regardless of the main exterior color of that Living Room home.

Use white as a White and base color for living other light shades room spaces so will reflect the sun you can build on it as well, contributing with other hues on to cooler pillows and temperatures on draperies, mixing walkways, decks and and matching other structures, however you see fit. which can be Homeowners who advantageous to have children and/or pets homeowners who should look for furniture live in warm climates. with removable slipcovers. This way Is it any wonder that white they’re easily removed and laundered. continues to be a classic and popular Bathroom color to use around the home?

White bathrooms look fresh and Whether you do so with are easy to clean and maintain. White monochromatic roomscapes or accent tiles provide a classic look. Include pieces, you can incorporate white into colored bath mats, towels and shower design plans throughout your home. curtains to break up the white as you

NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

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Coping With Condensation And Other Home Moisture Issues Finding the right moisture balance in a home can be challenging. Too little moisture and a home can be plagued by static electricity and interior spaces that can feel dry and uncomfortable. But too much moisture in a home may make it susceptible to mold, mildew and insect infestations. Moisture also can rot wood and cause unsightly stains on walls and ceilings.

Maintaining humidity in the optimal indoor range helps to keep the home safe, reduce energy consumption and keep a home’s occupants healthy. Damp conditions can lead to the growth of fungi, viruses and bacteria and may exacerbate people’s asthma and allergies. The ideal relative humidity range of a home should be between 40 to 50, according to heating and cooling experts and the Environmental Prevention Agency. Humidity should be even lower in the winter to prevent condensation on windows and other

surfaces. Lower relative humidity also reduces the out-gassing of volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. Measure humidity with a hygrometer to get an accurate assessment. If the humidity levels fall above or below the desired range, action should be taken.

Homeowners dealing with excessive moisture can try these remedies.

• Ventilate areas of the home.

Ventilation can be the first step to reducing indoor humidity. Target the areas that create the most moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Turn on venting fans to remove moist air from the bathroom during showers and baths. Exhaust hoods can control humidity from cooking in the kitchen.

When possible, open windows on dry days to help air out damp spaces.

• Rely on fans. Use fans to circulate the air and prevent moist air from pooling in certain locations. Fans also will help increase ventilation.

Make sure you trace possible leaks to • Keep gutters and downspouts their sources and have them repaired. clean. Prevent water from pooling Constantly dripping water can add to around the foundation of a home and infiltrating the basement or crawlspace. humidity levels and create other problems.

Direct gutter water further away from • Use a dehumidifier. If all other the house if possible, and keep gutters efforts have been tried, a dehumidifier free of obstructions. unit can help remove excess moisture • Service HVAC systems regularly. from the air. Dehumidifiers are Routine inspections of heating and particularly helpful in basements where cooling systems can identify any moisture can collect. problems, such as clogged airControlling moisture in a home conditioning drain lines or faulty results in a safer and healthier space. operation, that can contribute to moisture problems.

• Beef up insulation. Insulate cold water pipes and look into insulated toilet tanks that will help eliminate Specializing In Residential Roofing condensation issues.

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Did You Know?

Home improvement projects can inadvertently expose homeowners to hidden dangers. For example, lead paint may be lurking underneath layers of existing paint in older homes. Exposure to lead dust or fumes may cause brain damage or other adverse health effects, especially in children or pregnant women. It is essential that homeowners control their exposure to lead or other hazardous substances through the use of protective equipment, such as a properly fitted respirator. If lead is discovered, it may require professional containment and cleanup.

Contact your local health authority if you discover or suspect you have discovered lead paint or other hazardous materials in your home.

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NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

Homeowners Guide To Proper Tree Pruning Trees may require pruning for a variety reasons. Storms may have damaged branches, necessitating a pruning. In other instances, trees may have outgrown their yards, overpowering the landscape.

Autumn and winter, when trees largely go dormant and fallen leaves make it easier to see the branches beneath, may be prime times to prune. Pruning during the dormant period also minimizes sap loss and stress to the tree, and can help cut down on the growth of fungi. In addition, insects are less likely to be problematic during the colder months of the year.

Trimming and pruning can be handled by do-it-yourselfers if the branches are smaller and more manageable. Practice on thinner branches before moving on to thicker ones, which may require extra help.

Branches may be heavy, and it takes a guided hand to ensure the branches fall in a safe manner so they do not cause damage or injury.

Branches also need to be trimmed properly to facilitate good healing.

Trees will form a callus bark covering over cuts to keep out disease and decay, much as a scab forms over a person’s wound. Damaging the bark on

a tree while pruning may interfere with that process, so do-it-yourselfers need to take the time to prune correctly.

According to Danny Lipford, home improvement expert and host of the radio program “Today’s Homeowner,” larger limbs may require three cuts instead of one. The first cut is a small notch in the bottom of the limb, around two to three feet from the trunk and about one-quarter of the way through. This helps prevent the bark from splitting. A relief cut is then made a few inches away from the notch cut, and goes all the way through. This removes the weight of the branch so that the final cut can be made without the branch splitting and falling. The final cut is made right where the limb extrudes from the branch collar, or the swollen bump that then forms into the tree limb. Follow the slant of the branch collar when making the cut. Smaller or thinner branches may not require the same three steps, but every effort should be made to reduce injury to the tree.

When deciding how much to prune, less is usually more. All pruning can put some level of stress on the tree and increase its vulnerability to disease and insect infestation. A good rule of

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thumb is to never prune more than 25 percent of the crown.

According to experts at TreeHelp.com, living branches should comprise at least two-thirds the height of the tree.

In some instances, the rules may need to be bent if trees are interfering with utility lines or to meet community laws.

However, always prune minimally to avoid damaging the tree.

The right tools also make the job safer and easier. Use a pole pruner and

lopper, rope saws, folding pruner, and a bucksaw. A chainsaw can be used in some instances, especially when pruning larger limbs. Always disinfect pruning tools after you’re done to prevent the spread of disease to other trees.

Consider hiring a professional tree service if pruning proves beyond your capabilities. Doing so is safe and often well worth the investment.

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NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

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How To Control Ant Infestations At Home (MS) — Few things displease homeowners more quickly than insect infestations inside a home. Though many types of insects can find their way into a home, ants tend to be especially skilled at such invasions, causing many a headache among homeowners hoping to send their uninvited houseguests packing once and for all.

Ants are attracted to food, water and shelter, making kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms ideal havens for these unwelcome critters to congregate. Such infestations can frustrate homeowners and make them uncomfortable in their own homes, but curtailing an ant infestation need not be so difficult.

• Identify the point of entry. Upon discovering an ant infestation, homeowners should conduct a thorough inspection of their homes to identify where the ants are entering the home. Ants are tiny and capable of crawling through the smallest of cracks or gaps, so every home is vulnerable to an ant infestation. Once you discover an ant inside your home, follow the ant rather than killing it, as foraging ants are typically sent from a colony located outside the home in search of moisture

and food to bring back.

• Set the bait. Once you have identified the point of entry, you can then set some indoor ant bait.

Employing borax, a natural mineral found in many common household products such as hand soaps and toothpastes, as their active ingredient, TERRO® Indoor Liquid Ant Baits use ants’ anatomy against them to curtail infestations. Adult worker ants cannot digest solid food, which they must bring back to the colony for additional processing. Liquid ant baits exploit this physiology by making it easy for ants to transport the liquid bait back to the rest of the colony, where more ants will ultimately succumb to the bait. In addition, as the worker ant carries the bait back to the colony, it’s also dropping a pheromone trail from the bait to the nest, ensuring that other ants will know where to find the bait, which they will hungrily seek out, making it easy for homeowners to eradicate the entire colony of ants.

• Expect to see more ants after setting the bait. Baiting ants requires some patience on the part of homeowners, who should expect to see more ants appear in the hours after

initially laying down the baits. That’s because the bait is intentionally attempting to draw ants out and attract as many of them as possible, so the more ants you see in the first couple of days after laying the bait, the more effective that bait will be at eradicating the colony. Especially large ant colonies may take up to 10 days to curtail, but smaller infestations can usually be controlled within 24 to 48 hours.

• Address the outdoors as well.

Nearly all ant infestations can be traced to a colony beneath the ground outside a home. Though ants prefer to invade the interior of a home where they can find food, water and shelter, that does not mean your home’s exterior is immune to such infestations, which can typically be found by searching for foraging trails that look like a line of traffic filled with ants. That line often leads directly into a home via windows, doors, exhaust vents, faucets, sliding glass doors, and along gutters and exterior walls.

TERRO® Outdoor Liquid Ant Bait Stakes provide an effective and longterm solution to control outdoor ant colonies. Just like the indoor baits,

these stakes employ a specially formulated liquid ant bait solution that attracts and kills all common household ants, including Argentine ghost ants, little black, acrobat, and pavement ants, among others. The Liquid Ant Bait Stakes have a snap off bait activation system that keeps the bait fresh until ready to use, while a see-through window makes it easy for homeowners to monitor the liquid ant bait so they know when it’s time to replace the stake. Simply place the stake along ant trails or any areas outside the home where ants have been observed.

• Maintain an environment inside the home that’s uninviting to ants.

Once baits have been set and ant colonies have been curtailed, homeowners can take steps to make their homes less inviting to ants in the future. Clean kitchens regularly, quickly cleaning up spills or crumbs, and use an exhaust fan in bathrooms and laundry rooms to cut down on the type of moisture that may prove attractive to thirsty ants.

More information about TERRO® indoor and outdoor ant bait products is available at www.terro.com.

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NORFOLK DAILY NEWS, MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2017

Roofing Materials Transform The Look And Functionality Of A Home When renovating a home, homeowners may not give ample thought to the roof unless there is a leak or another sign of damage. It’s easy to forget about the roof when materials are working properly. Some people put off replacing or repairing a roof simply because of the costs of such undertakings. However, the right roof can improve the appearance of a home and provide protection against the elements, potentially preventing damage to a home’s interior as well.

Roofing materials have evolved over the years, but the most common type of roofing material is the asphalt shingle.

These shingles are a relatively modern invention, with the first “asphalt prepared roofing” serving as a forerunner to asphalt shingles, appearing in the late 1800s.

Roofing materials will need to meet a particular area’s fire codes and must be able to withstand any extreme weather conditions common to the geographic region where the home is located. Certain roofing materials may be heavier than others and may require special framing. Work with an experienced roofing contractor to learn more about your available options and to shed light on any special installation or maintenance issues to consider before construction begins.

The following are just some of the roofing materials homeowners may want to consider.

• Asphalt shingles: The most popular roofing material, asphalt shingles are guaranteed for 20 to 30 years, which helps solidify this choice as a smart-value product. For some

homeowners, a downside to shingles is that, because they are so popular, they’re seen everywhere. So those homeowners looking to make a unique statement with their roofing materials may want to choose a different option.

• Wood shingles and shakes: A wood roof is another possibility, but some homeowners find wood roofs require more money to install and more effort to maintain than roofs made with other materials. Wood shingles are sawn from logs and are thin, while shakes are thick, rough and formed by being split from logs.

• Clay or concrete tiles: These tiles add texture and elegance to a roof, says HGTV. Clay or concrete tiles are very durable and quite heavy, so they must be installed by a professional.

These tiles can make Mediterranean-, Spanish- or mission-style houses stand out even more. Their long-lasting nature can help offset the price tag.

• Metal: Metal roofs are usually made from fully recyclable steel, aluminum or alloy, making them an eco-friendly choice. Metal roofs also reflect the sun’s rays and can be an energy-efficient option in hot climates.

• Slate: One of the longest-lasting materials available in roofing products, slate is fireproof and comes in various natural colors and shapes. Once installed, slate requires very little maintenance. However, slate can be cost-prohibitive because its delicacy and weight requires extra roofing support and professional installation.

Changing a roof means years of improved performance and an instant uplift to the look of a home.

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