Connecticutlivinghome

Home Edition

Spring 2014 Front.indd 1

3/1/14 5:36 PM

Inside front.indd 2

3/1/14 11:20 AM

Home Edition

3

I

Welcome

Welcome n this, Connecticut Living’s HOME edition, we’ve harvested some exciting things to put in our spring baskets, and hope you’ll find them resourceful, enjoyable, and—most importantly—practical for your dwelling, whether you’re on the shore or tucked away in the Quiet Corner.

“Little House, Big Perks” on page x has some clever solutions for those looking to maximize the full potential of a smaller living space. Or have you outgrown your storage space? Check out the options in “Seeking Storage:

ready yourself for the bountiful season ahead after reading the tips on organic pest control on page 20.

This issue has all that…and the kitchen sink! In fact our “Look at Kitchens” on pages 10

Garages, Sheds, and Carports” on page 14.

You’ll be living green with our tips on saving water (page 18), a precious commodity we too often take for granted. And you’ll want to get your garden going and

through 13 are packed with ideas for sinks and cabinets galore; everything you need to make the best of your home.

So, please read on. And thank you for welcoming our HOME into your home.

Enjoy this issue of Connecticut Living!

Find your next home project idea inside.

18

Green Living

Green Living

18

Save Water 20 & Stay

Green

I

n many places in the United States, water is scarcer than just about any other commodity. We use water every day for showering, cleaning, laundry, cooking, and a host of other activities. It’s really unthinkable to stop using water, but we can be smarter about the way we use it. Here are some ways you can keep green and save water.

Stop Leaks

everything in your home. You can drastically reduce the amount of water in your shower (the biggest culprit), but there are also low-flow devices for kitchen and bathroom sinks. If you are installing a new toilet, look into a low-flow model as well. Of course, taking shorter showers is also a great way to save water.

A five-minute shower is usually enough for most people each day.

A timer on the shower, or just a kitchen timer in the bathroom, can make you more aware of how much time you spend in the shower.

Leaks are one of the most common problems in your home water system. You can generate a significant amount of water loss with just a small leak that is relatively easy to fix. Toilets can leak from the tank into the bowl; if so, they should be replaced as soon as possible. Much of what people are looking for from their water supply is pressure— that strong water pressure that really knocks off dirt and grime.

Attaching an aerator to your sinks and shower will infuse that water with air, giving you the pressure you want while using much less water.

Go Natural Keeping a green lawn is a sign of success for many. But you can save a lot of water, particularly in arid regions, by letting your lawn simply brown out each summer. You can

Go Low-Flow With the recent move to sustainability, there are now low-flow devices for just about 3

Save Water & Stay Green Garden Pest Control The Organic Way

4

Home Renovation 4 Little House,

Home Renovation

Little

House, 6 Big

Perks 8

Y

ou’ve always lived in a small home and loved it.

With far less house and yard to care for, you’ve had more time to devote to other interests.

Now that you’re adding to your family, however, you’re not sure if you can continue to enjoy the perks of small home living.

Relax. Unless your family is growing substantially larger, you can remain where you are and make a few changes to maximize your home’s potential.

10

Where to Fit it All Storage can be a problem in any size home. If your home lacks storage space, consider creating some builtins: bookshelves, cabinets, and seating make wonderful additions to any home. You just need to place them in the best area possible and be careful not to take up too much floor space. Shelves can extend upward as high as possible, especially when surrounding doorframes, room openings, bed frames, and kitchen and pantry areas.

There are many container options for storing off-season and seldom used items such as holiday decorations, baking equipment, clothing, and craft materials. Doors can be added for a cabinet look.

Organize your closets to their fullest extent with closet systems.

Utilize under bed and furniture spaces with boxes to house items. Look for storage with wheels to make for easy access and eliminate the need for bulky dressers. This is good

idea for a child’s use, since they love having things at their level.

Versatility is Key In a home lacking square footage, multipurpose is the name of the game. Make sure your rooms serve more than one purpose. Tuck a desk in the corner of your dining room and use the space to both eat and work. Slide your upright piano into your entryway and use the space as a foyer and a music room. Add a bench to your second floor landing and use the space for reading.

Choose a bench with storage space and maximize the area.

Big Perks The Color Challenge New Roof Needed

The same principle applies to your furniture choices. Don’t bring a piece into your home unless it can serve more than one purpose. Consider a sleeper sofa for your living room. Select a comfortable chair for your desk that can slide into the living room when needed for extra seating. Switch out your coffee table for an ottoman to use as a footrest when watching TV and as extra seating.

Select smaller equipment and accessories. Trade out your bulky TV and computer monitor for flat screen models.

A wall mounted television takes away the need for an entertainment center. A laptop or tablet can replace a computer, opening up an area for another purpose. Streamline your music by connecting your smartphone or tablet to wireless portable speakers that are small in size and rich in sound. Electronic music files, internet radio, and various apps can eliminate the need for CD storage areas.

Do it Yourself

Do it Yourself

22 Meditate,

Relax &Enjoy 23 H 24 ave you ever been to a Zen garden?

The Japanese rock gardens are intended to be a peaceful refuge and so are streamlined with carefully arranged elements on a base of sand or gravel. Zen gardens tend to be small and are often surrounded by a wall with a place for visitors to sit and meditate.

Time to Order it Undersized

Home Style

Home Style

26

Meditate, Relax, & Enjoy Oil Or Latex?

Home Trending

even more soothing appeal. Install some lighting for evening visits and rake the sand or gravel in ripples to create the look of water.

As with your home, be prepared for your Zen garden to evolve over time. Feel free to add or remove elements as you see fit. Just make sure you keep the garden clean and clutter free. Remember, the point of a Zen garden is to relax. The more tasks and things around you, the less likely you are to do so.

Unlike traditional gardens, Zen gardens require very little upkeep other than occasional weeding.

Weed yours as necessary and enjoy having your very own Japanese rock garden to meditate in. And, should you live in an urban area and have no space for a Zen garden, do not despair. You can create one in a container. Desktop Zen gardens have gained in popularity. One look online will uncover dozens of design plans.

—Tresa Erickson

to prevent weeds, and apply a thick layer of sand or gravel on top of it.

Now comes the fun part—the actual design. Zen gardens should be interesting but minimalist.

Look for natural elements like mossy logs, bushes, trees, and rocks to incorporate into the design; consider adding a water feature for

the right conditions.

Sand or gravel will serve as the base for your Zen garden, and you’ll need a form to contain it.

Lumber, railroad ties, and stone are some options for creating a form.

Once you have built and installed the form, you will need to put down some black landscaping fabric

Does a Zen garden sound ideal to you? They are easy to create. First, you need a location. Keep in mind that Zen gardens are intended to be peaceful, so look for a spot in your yard away from play areas for the kids and pets. Think about the plants you hope to incorporate into your design and make sure you choose a site with

22

ConneCtiCut living

10 A Look at Kitchens A Look at Kitchens 13 Kitchen Ideas

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ConneCtiCut living

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ConneCtiCut living

ConneCtiCutliving.Com

Dollars+Sense

Dollars Sense

26

What to Look For

When

Buying a 28

Home

What to Look For When Buying a Home The Right Builder

Y

ou’ve found a home that seems perfect. The rooms are the right size and the neighborhood ideal. But appearances can be deceiving, so before making an offer, take a closer look.

T

he kitchen has long been considered the heart of a home; so shouldn’t your home’s heart reflect the feelings of it’s inhabitants?

Whether updating or redesigning, every kitchen has the potential to be the love of your life.

Cabinet Basics

14

Looking to update your kitchen with new cabinets? Before you start looking into the dozens of style choices available, you might

frameless. Framed cabinets have an actual front built onto the cabinet box, making them stronger and easier to install than frameless designs.

They also feature a more traditional look, which may explain why they are a staple in American kitchens.

Because of the front, however, they offer less storage space and cost more.

Frameless cabinets have no front. The doors attach right onto the cabinet sides, allowing for ample storage space. With minimal space between doors, frameless cabinets make for a

want to know a little more about how kitchen cabinets are actually constructed.

Kitchen cabinets are generally constructed in two ways: framed and

clean design, and are typical of the European kitchen.

Kitchen cabinet doors come in three main types: inset, full overlay, and 1/2 inch overlay.

Inset doors fit entirely within the cabinet front. While they look nice, they are harder to install and require an even temperature to be maintained in the home to avoid contraction and expansion and, ultimately, sticking. Full overlay doors completely cover the cabinet front, while 1/2 inch

Outdoor Living

Outdoor Living

14 Seeking Storage Seeking

Garages, Sheds, Storage

& Carports Garages, Sheds,&

30

Most walks and driveways have some cracks and can often be maintained by sealant. But significant deterioration can be a trip hazard and mean costly

of Colchester, CT, confirms the vast options and uses of today’s garage. Garages are sought for many reasons; to store vehicles, to replace carports that are developed into home additions for growing families, or to add storage in addition to existing structures, to name a few.

Brian offers a very important tip...

“Be mindful of your storage of flammable materials. Grills, propane, and fuels should not be part of your living space.”

When adding a garage to your home, the options are limitless.

Check all sides of the house from ground level for broken, missing, lifting, or curling shingles. If you see any patching, don’t be afraid to ask the homeowner for the roof history and if there is any documentation from when it was professionally repaired. A quick overview of the visible components of the chimney can often reveal issues. Most roof systems should have gutters and leaders. Gutters should slope toward the leaders and the leaders should have extensions to direct the water away from the house.

Some cracks in foundations are common, but larger ones with deflections can be significant. Make note of any cracks that concern you

+ Foundation.

26

Food

Food

30 You Say Tomato…

I say Tomahto

It can be a custom built or a prefabricated building. The first step is deciding if you would like it free standing or attached to your home. Keep in mind the aesthetics of your home with this addition.

How will it change your curb appeal? Check into local building codes on what is permissible.

Decide what you want to store in your garage. Is it just a place to park your car, or do you have also own an RV, boat, motorcycle, kayak, or canoe that needs the storage and security a garage can offer. And

Fried Green Tomatoes 2 lbs. green tomatoes, sliced 1 c. canola oil for frying,

or as needed

2 eggs 2 T. water

Avocado, Tomato & Mango Salsa

1 c. all-purpose flour 1 c. yellow cornmeal • Sea salt, to taste • Freshly ground black • pepper to taste

Line a baking sheet with waxed paper. Beat eggs and water and set aside.

Place flour and cornmeal in separate bowls. Season cornmeal with salt and pepper. Dip tomato slices in flour and then in egg mixture. Press into cornmeal mixture, shaking off excess. Transfer to baking sheet in a single layer. Heat about 1/4 inch canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry tomato slices in batches until golden crisp, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Drain and serve.

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ConneCtiCut living

1

vine-like plant is too difficult to grow, but with a little research and proper soil, you will be enjoying the fruits of your labor with ease. More often than not, gardeners end up with more produce than they can use. Lucky for you, there are lots of recipes that call for tomatoes.

Here are just a few you can use for turning your harvest of tomatoes into savory dishes. Consult your cookbooks for further recipes and enjoy!

—Lisa Turner

purchased at most farms and garden shops in our area. Just remember, it’s a warm weather crop, so the plants do not respond well to chilly temperatures. Wait until all signs of frost are gone before planting outdoors. Exposure to chilly nights below 50 degrees could ruin your plants. A good rule of thumb is to plant sometime between Mother’s Day and Memorial Day, depending on late spring temperatures.

Be patient. Your plants need time, water, staking, weeding, and sun to grow. Many think this

nice if space is a challenge. Add some basil, rosemary, and oregano plants and you’ve got the ingredients to begin many tasty dishes.

Tomato seedlings may be

Here in New England, tomatoes are one of the most popular picks for backyard and community gardens.

Some varieties do exceptionally well in container garden settings, especially

Garages have evolved into the ultimate multitasker. They’ve come a long way since the years of carriage houses developed in early American times to house the buggys drawn by horses. No longer just a place to park the car, modern garages serve as workshops, playrooms, craft rooms, weight rooms, and can even be used as guest quarters.

A recent conversation with Brian Marvin, second generation of family founded Carefree Small Buildings

+ rooF and cHimney.

+ driveways & waLkways.

s it a fruit? Is it a vegetable? Well, technically it is a fruit, but is used as a vegetable in most of its cooking formats. The tomato is a healthy food, with its antioxidant lycopene gaining much attention in recent years. Tomatoes are available all year in canned, dried, paste, juiced, stewed, and fresh forms, making them a staple in many pantries.

o you’re a gardener with a plethora of tools and a lover of water sports with all the equipment to prove it. Yet your house can’t comfortably hold all these extra items. It’s time to rethink things and move it out of the house to a garage, shed, or carport. If your home lacks these important features, you may want to consider adding them.

Garages

and be sure to discuss this with your home inspector. Look for significant surface deterioration and discoloring in the basement that may be due to water incursion.

+ Home exterior. A couple minor cracks in brick and mortar are common and correction should be considered a part of maintenance. Larger cracks, loose brick, and deteriorated mortar can be more costly to repair and indicate significant settlement.

Tomato…

I say Tomahto I

S

TOC.indd 1

Most interior water problems begin with poor water drainage. For proper water run-off, the ground should be several inches below the siding and slope downhill away from the foundation at least one inch per foot for the first 5-6 feet. Negative slope adds to the potential for water incursion into the basement.

You Say

Carports

ConneCtiCut living

repairs. Again, the driveway should slope away from the house since poor slope can lead to water incursion in the garage and/or basement. Poor drainage on the driveway also contributes to faster deterioration.

+ Lawn and Landscaping.

ConneCtiCut living

10

ConneCtiCut living

inspector who is really qualified.”

Here are some areas to keep an eye on when house hunting:

No home is perfect, but is it perfect for you? Experts highly recommend hiring a professional home inspector before closing the deal. The professional inspector is trained to do a thorough inspection of the interior and exterior of the home, pointing out potential problem areas and making recommendations. Arnold Peck, of Arnold Peck’s Property World and Arnold Peck’s Commercial World, advises, “The most important things when selecting a home inspector is to pick someone who is a member of the Society of Home Inspectors, known as ASHI, and someone who you are sure is qualified, someone who can provide references. This is one of the largest purchases in someone’s life so you need to pick an

1 avocado, peeled, pitted and diced 4 tomatoes, diced 1 mango, peeled, seeded and diced 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced

1 2 / c. fresh cilantro, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced 1 t. salt 2 T. lime juice 1 4 / c. red onion, chopped 3 T. olive oil

Combine avocado, tomatoes, mango, jalapeno, cilantro, and garlic. Stir in remaining ingredients. Refrigerate for 30 minutes and serve. Note: If fresh mangos are difficult to get, Trader Joe’s has great frozen mangoes available.

They can be chopped down to proper size.

30

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3/1/14 11:34 AM

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Flooring Connecticut for over 50 years!

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Craig W. Armstrong, Doris Black, Sam Erickson, Frank Farricker, Tresa Erikson, Bruce Schaefer, Lisa Turner

What we write gets read. www.ULTINT.com

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Connecticut Living Magazine(ISSN 23333-7389) is distributed

by Red Mat Publishing. P.O. Box 2387 Milford, CT 06460. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written permission of the Publisher. Opinions expressed in Connecticut Living articles and advertisements are those of the authors and advertisers, respectively and should not be considered as expressions of management or official policies of Connecticut Living Magazine. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Red Mat Publishing P.O. Box 2387, Milford, CT www.redmatpublishing.com 06460. Copyright 2014. Red Mat Publishing.

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3/1/14 11:07 AM

Welcome

I

n this, Connecticut Living’s HOME edition, we’ve harvested some exciting things to put in our spring baskets, and hope you’ll find them resourceful, enjoyable, and—most importantly—practical for your dwelling, whether you’re on the shore or tucked away in the Quiet Corner.

“Little House, Big Perks” on page 4 has some clever solutions for those looking to maximize the full potential of a smaller living space. Or have you outgrown your storage space? Check out the options in “Seeking Storage:

ready yourself for the bountiful season ahead after reading the tips on organic pest control on page 20.

This issue has all that…and the kitchen sink! In fact our “Look at Kitchens” on pages 10

Garages, Sheds, and Carports” on page 14.

You’ll be living green with our tips on saving water (page 18), a precious commodity we too often take for granted. And you’ll want to get your garden going and

3

Intro.indd 3

through 13 are packed with ideas for sinks and cabinets galore; everything you need to make the best of your home.

So, please read on. And thank you for welcoming our HOME into your home.

Connecticutliving.com

3/3/14 5:00 PM

Home Renovation

Little House, Big Perks

Y

ou’ve always lived in a small home and loved it.

With far less house and yard to care for, you’ve had more time to devote to other interests.

Now that you’re adding to your family, however, you’re not sure if you can continue to enjoy the perks of small home living.

Relax. Unless your family is growing substantially larger, you can remain where you are and make a few changes to maximize your home’s potential.

Connecticut living

Home Renovation.indd 4

Where to Fit it All Storage can be a problem in any size home. If your home lacks storage space, consider creating some builtins: bookshelves, cabinets, and seating make wonderful additions to any home. You just need to place them in the best area possible and be careful not to take up too much floor space. Shelves can extend upward as high as possible, especially when surrounding doorframes, room openings, bed frames, and kitchen and pantry areas.

There are many container options for storing off-season and seldom used items such as holiday decorations, baking equipment, clothing, and craft materials. Doors can be added for a cabinet look.

Organize your closets to their fullest extent with closet systems.

Utilize under bed and furniture spaces with boxes to house items. Look for storage with wheels to make for easy access and eliminate the need for bulky dressers. This is good

idea for a child’s use, since they love having things at their level.

Versatility is Key In a home lacking square footage, multipurpose is the name of the game. Make sure your rooms serve more than one purpose. Tuck a desk in the corner of your dining room and use the space to both eat and work. Slide your upright piano into your entryway and use the space as a foyer and a music room. Add a bench to your second floor landing and use the space for reading.

Choose a bench with storage space and maximize the area.

The same principle applies to your furniture choices. Don’t bring a piece into your home unless it can serve more than one purpose. Consider a sleeper sofa for your living room. Select a comfortable chair for your desk that can slide into the living room when needed for extra seating. Switch out your coffee table for an ottoman to use as a footrest when watching TV and as extra seating.

Time to Order it Undersized Select smaller equipment and accessories. Trade out your bulky TV and computer monitor for flat screen models.

A wall mounted television takes away the need for an entertainment center. A laptop or tablet can replace a computer, opening up an area for another purpose. Streamline your music by connecting your smartphone or tablet to wireless portable speakers that are small in size and rich in sound. Electronic music files, internet radio, and various apps can eliminate the need for CD storage areas.

4

3/1/14 11:09 AM

Home Renovation

you are invited to

Discover

Use hanging bedside lamps rather than large tableside lamps.

Choose smaller appliances for your kitchen. You will be amazed at how much more room you have just by using smaller items.

Use Lighting and Color Light up the rooms in your home and make them appear larger.

Use a variety of lighting sources at various heights around each room. Throw open the drapes during the day and let the natural light in. Bring in some mirrors to

Keep your color palette light; lighter wall colors keep it bright and airy. reflect light around each room.

Keep your color palette light; lighter wall colors keep it bright and airy. With a pale room, use darker, bolder colors for accents only to add drama and depth.

Still crave that cozy feeling that dark walls offer? Perhaps do just one focal wall in your favorite bold color. Window treatments should not be heavy or dark. Light

Lauralton

bedding and slender furniture create a sleek, smart look when placed against dark walls.

See what’s here for you!

Think ‘Below’ the Box Is your basement utilized to its full potential? An unfinished basement can be used for a new living space; even more than one room may be possible. A finished basement is a great location for a playroom, home office, or even an extra bedroom.

Take it Outside Add to your square footage with an outdoor space. Power wash that old patio, add some new furniture and plants, and presto, you have extended your living area outdoors.

Throw open the French doors during parties and give guests plenty of room to mingle. Step that idea up a notch; elaborate outdoor kitchens and dining areas are all the rage. This is evident in the number of products and styles now readily obtainable to create.

If you long to stay where you are, don’t let the thought of a larger family prevent you from doing so. Make adjustments as needed and make your home work for you.

—Tresa Erickson and Lisa Turner

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203.878.3333 LauraltonHall.org 200 High Street Milford

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Home Renovation.indd 5

Connecticutliving.com

3/1/14 11:10 AM

Home Renovation

The Color Challenge

W

hen you purchased your house, the last thing on your mind was the color of the exterior. It had been freshly painted white, and you had more important matters to attend to on the inside. Well, now that the inside is done, you’re turning your attention to the exterior. Although still in good condition, the bright white paint just isn’t cutting it for you. You’d like something a bit richer, but what?

WINDOWS

•

•

SIDING

DECKS

•

•

ROOFING

➻ Beach Cottages: Here in the Northeast folks tend to stick to neutrals, whereas in the South they may go bolder. Whatever your color palette, make sure you save the brightest color for the door and architectural details.

SOLAR

•

Well, if you live in a particular style of home, that may be your first clue as to the right exterior color scheme.

Here is a brief list of some of the more common home styles and the exterior colors associated with them.

INSULATION

Standing Standingbehind behind every everyjob job since 1992. since 1992. www.berkeleyexteriors.com/living 121 Bridgeport Ave, Milford, CT 06460 203.877.4373 or service@berkeleyexteriors.com BE ML Ad Summer 2012.indd 1

Connecticut living

Home Renovation.indd 6

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6/8/12 5:58 PM

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Home Renovation

➻ Craftsman Bungalows: Traditionally, Craftsman bungalows are green and brown. However, you don’t have to go this route. You can step outside of the box. Just remember to use the roof color as your guide and make sure you accent any decorative trim on the house.

➻ Queen Anne Victorians: Known as painted ladies, Queen Anne Victorians can really take the color as design books show. You can select a palette of several contrasting colors to really jazz up the place, or you can go with a subtler palette and select shades in the same tone.

➻ English Tudors: Skip the bold colors for Tudors and let the roof color and surrounding landscape guide you to the right color palette.

If the roof is a rusty color, use a similar shade on the trim and select a warm shade of cream for the body.

➻ Ranches: Many ranch homes have brick somewhere on the façade. Use this as a guide in selecting the right exterior color palette. If the bricks are white, tan, or copper, look for a body color that will blend in. If the bricks are red or orange, look for a contrasting body color. Select a striking color for the shutters and door for added interest.

➻ Farmhouses: Although many farmhouses are painted white with black accents, you may want to choose a different color palette if you live near fields or off a dirt road. Try a sunny yellow or a sage green with white accents instead. ➻ Georgian Colonials: The color palette for Georgians usually consists of three or four colors.

Because this style of house is expansive, you can choose a deep color for the body and lighter colors for the accents. Again, if you live in a historical neighborhood, you will want to use historically accurate colors.

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➻ Split-Levels: Split-levels allow for a lot of leeway with color choice. To tie all of the various levels and elements together, use a darker color on the body and a bold color on the door for added interest.

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These are just some of the many house styles. Whatever style of house you live in, be sure you do your homework and find out what colors will work best on the exterior. The more you know, the better color choices you will make and the more likely you will be happy with the results.

—Tresa Erickson

ClEaN YoUr CloSEtS & CoNSigN! Call for DEtailS

163 N. Broad St. Milford 203-283-9400

www.villagevogueboutique.com 7

Home Renovation.indd 7

Connecticutliving.com

3/1/14 11:10 AM

Home Renovation Renovation Tip

help you through the maze,” confirms

New Roof Needed

Lofaro. “A good quality roofing job is the most solid investment that you can make. Your roof protects

When you bought your home

your home for many years to

some years ago, you gave little

come, it is important to install a

thought to the roof. The inspector

complete ‘system’ to ensure you have

confirmed it was in good condition,

proper ice and snow membranes,

and that was the last time you

attic ventilation to prevent heat

thought about it…until now.

and moisture build up, quality

Michael Lofaro of Berkeley

underlayments, and of course, expert

Did You Know

According to the Remodeling 2014 Cost vs. Value Report, a roof replacement with a cost of $20,473 will have a resale value of $14,762, recouping 72% of your project

Exteriors, Inc. of Milford shares some

to choose from in terms of quality

installation by qualified roofers.”

valuable insight regarding your

and design. Various thicknesses,

You want your new roof to last a

modern roofing options. “The choices

weights, textures, and designs can

long time. Select the right roofing

are plentiful. Keep in mind that

be overwhelming.” It is ioften best to

material for your home and the right

data from the Remodeling 2012–13 Cost

most choices will affect your budget

consult a professional. “This is where

professional for the job.

vs. Value Report can be downloaded free

for the roof job...There’s so much

a reputable roofing contractor can

Connecticut living

Home Renovation.indd 8

—Tresa Erickson

investment. This data is specifically for the New England region.* *© 2014 Hanley Wood, LLC. Complete

at www.costvsvalue.com.

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3/1/14 11:12 AM

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Home Renovation.indd 9

Connecticutliving.com

3/1/14 11:12 AM

Home Style

A Look at Kitchens

T

he kitchen has long been considered the heart of a home; so shouldn’t your home’s heart reflect the feelings of it’s inhabitants?

Whether updating or redesigning, every kitchen has the potential to be the love of your life.

Cabinet Basics Looking to update your kitchen with new cabinets? Before you start looking into the dozens of style choices available, you might Connecticut living

Home Style.indd 10

frameless. Framed cabinets have an actual front built onto the cabinet box, making them stronger and easier to install than frameless designs.

They also feature a more traditional look, which may explain why they are a staple in American kitchens.

Because of the front, however, they offer less storage space and cost more.

Frameless cabinets have no front. The doors attach right onto the cabinet sides, allowing for ample storage space. With minimal space between doors, frameless cabinets make for a

want to know a little more about how kitchen cabinets are actually constructed.

Kitchen cabinets are generally constructed in two ways: framed and

clean design, and are typical of the European kitchen.

Kitchen cabinet doors come in three main types: inset, full overlay, and 1/2 inch overlay.

Inset doors fit entirely within the cabinet front. While they look nice, they are harder to install and require an even temperature to be maintained in the home to avoid contraction and expansion and, ultimately, sticking. Full overlay doors completely cover the cabinet front, while 1/2 inch

10

3/1/14 11:30 AM

Milford Blueprint

Home Style

884 Boston Post Road Milford, CT 06461 overlay doors cover the cabinet front partially. Because you can see some of the front, 1/2 inch overlay doors work well for vintage or duotone designs.

These are the construction basics. If you are planning a kitchen cabinet purchase, knowing whether you want framed or frameless cabinets, along with the style of door, will help you narrow your choices considerably. You may still wind up with several choices, but with the construction basics out of the way, you can concentrate on the aesthetic appeal of the cabinets and make sure the style you choose reflects the kitchen design you hope to create, whether contemporary, French country, Italian, or otherwise.

Kitchen Sink Choices Whether you’re planning a whole new kitchen construction or replacing that old cast iron sink that has seen better days, here is what you can expect when sink shopping.

There are many types of kitchen sinks on the market today, and the materials they are made of vary just as much as the styles. Some of the more common styles include:

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Home Style.indd 11

Connecticutliving.com

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Home Style

➻ Farmhouse sinks have an apron and can sit on top of the countertop or be mounted underneath. They are usually fairly deep.

➻ Trough sinks are long and lean and allow for more than one faucet and drain, making them convenient for kitchens with multiple cooks. ➻ Seamless sinks are part of the actual countertops, hence the seamless look.

They also eliminate the

crevice between sink and countertop, making cleanup a breeze. ➻ Undermount sinks are designed to fit under the countertop, making cleanup easier. Homeowners simply wipe whatever debris is on the countertop into the sink. ➻ Vessel sinks sit on top of the countertop, and because they are higher, require less bending over. Although once reserved for bathrooms, vessel sinks are now being designed specifically for kitchens.

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Home Style

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These are just a few of the more common sink choices currently in style. You are sure to come across more, including the traditional sink, which sits on the countertop.

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Outdoor Living

Seeking Storage Garages, Sheds,& Carports

S

o you’re a gardener with a plethora of tools and a lover of water sports with all the equipment to prove it. Yet your house can’t comfortably hold all these extra items. It’s time to rethink things and move it out of the house to a garage, shed, or carport. If your home lacks these important features, you may want to consider adding them.

Garages Garages have evolved into the ultimate multitasker. They’ve come a long way since the years of carriage houses developed in early American times to house the buggys drawn by horses. No longer just a place to park the car, modern garages serve as workshops, playrooms, craft rooms, weight rooms, and can even be used as guest quarters.

A recent conversation with Brian Marvin, second generation of family founded Carefree Small Buildings Connecticut living

Outdoor Living.indd 14

of Colchester, CT, confirms the vast options and uses of today’s garage. Garages are sought for many reasons; to store vehicles, to replace carports that are developed into home additions for growing families, or to add storage in addition to existing structures, to name a few.

Brian offers a very important tip...

“Be mindful of your storage of flammable materials. Grills, propane, and fuels should not be part of your living space.”

When adding a garage to your home, the options are limitless.

It can be a custom built or a prefabricated building. The first step is deciding if you would like it free standing or attached to your home. Keep in mind the aesthetics of your home with this addition.

How will it change your curb appeal? Check into local building codes on what is permissible.

Decide what you want to store in your garage. Is it just a place to park your car, or do you have also own an RV, boat, motorcycle, kayak, or canoe that needs the storage and security a garage can offer. And

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Outdoor Living

“Garage doors are now going green, which means energy savings from insulation value, recycled content, and product longevity.” consider whether you really want to park your car on the driveway because the snow blower and a surplus of tools and equipment are in its “reserved” indoor spot.

Preplanning is key. Garage doors and windows styles are plentiful. According to Steve Wampler of Overhead Doors of Orange, garage doors are now going green, which means energy savings from insulation value, recycled content, and product longevity. Garage door motors are becoming “smart,” which means you can do everything from monitoring the garage door usage to opening the garage door from anywhere via smartphone.

Style-wise, there is always a choice. “Carriage house-style garage doors seem to be a very popular way to spruce up the look of your home by portraying a barn-style look with decorative hinges and handles,” says Wampler. “Garage door styles vary from the standard raisedpanel door to a full custom overlay door. Steel doors are very popular due to the longevity and low maintenance—you never have to paint steel doors as compared to wood doors, and now they even come in woodgrain finish to look more like real wood.” When thinking of replacing your garage doors and openers, the consumer should keep in mind that the garage door is typically the largest entry way to your home, so you want a door that is going to be reliable

and secure. It is a major purchase that should be looked into fully so you get the right door for your application. Sometimes the least expensive option is not the best option. You need to ask questions when talking to any sales reps so you understand exactly what you are purchasing and that it is the correct garage door for your home. It’s best to do some research on what you like. Start a “style” file of garages you find most appealing. Make a wish list and bring it with you to aid in planning. A trained builder

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Outdoor Living.indd 15

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Outdoor Living

Proof Release TC- 826530

ISSUE DATE:

TEAM 5G

Contact Your Account Services Coordinator, Michelle Thompson, (x4377)

August-September 2011

EDITION NAME

00952 - New Haven Market, CT (5F)

your property, be sure to check can design a structure that will local codes and get the proper complement your home and make permits to building. this dream a reality for you.

PLEASE SIGN YOUR PROOF AND COMPLETE THEprior FOLLOWING INFORMATION

❑ Ad is approved ❑ Ad is approved with changes ❑ Ad is not approved make changes indicated Carports

Sheds

Carports are technically considered Grown out of your existing garage? a shelter for a car, typically made Does it seem as if the lawn mower, SIGNATURE of a roof supported on posts with shovels, and garden supplies have open sides. (If it had walls it would created a place of clutter? It’s high be considered a garage.) Many time you got organized and looked PRINT NAME DATE times a carport is built next to a into the purchase of a shed.

Youcan now toSheds proof your ads online! home and be ashave simplethe as aoption tarp come in all styles and sizes contactasyour ASC forsmall more information. on metal Please poles, or elaborate a from plastic freestanding units COUPON PLACEMENT MAY CHANGE PRIOR PUBLICATION shingled roof with stone columns. to large woodenTO bi-level barns. You Carports get your vehicle out of will want to choose a style that direct sunlight and offer limited complements your landscape and is protection from the elements. large enough to accommodate your When considering adding one to storage needs.

At 717-509-9247

EMAIL: 5G@cmag.com for the multiple projects you’ve always got going on.

FAX: 717-358-2535

Next, check your landscape to determine where the shed would go 4527BK 5 2 and what materials would hold up best. Finally, review any ordinances 7/13 3850CW n/a Y n/a in place on sheds. You may need STEVE WAMPLER Please deliver asap to: _____________________________________________ approval from your homeowner’s ORANGEOVERHEADDOOR@GMAIL.COM EMAIL: ___________________________________________________________ association or a permit from your 203-799-2338 __________________________ FAX: __________________________ town or city to erect a shed.

ToPHONE: determine the style and Garages, carports, and sheds can size00952-05-11 of shed you’ll need, first be a great addition to your home. weed through your garden tools, They can add beauty and curb backyard equipment, tools, lawn This ad is the property of Clipper Magazine and may not be reproduced in any other publication.

Pleaseor review your proof carefully. not responsible for any error of not marked. appealisand increase the value furniture, whatever else you Clipper Magazine your property. Just make sure you plan to store in the shed. You may discover you don’t need a shed after do your homework and find the right style and size for you. all. Or maybe what you really need —Lisa Turner is a small shed with a workbench Office Use Only ARTIST

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Connecticutliving.com

3/1/14 11:16 AM

Green Living

Save Water & Stay Green

I

n many places in the United States, water is scarcer than just about any other commodity. We use water every day for showering, cleaning, laundry, cooking, and a host of other activities. It’s really unthinkable to stop using water, but we can be smarter about the way we use it. Here are some ways you can keep green and save water.

Stop Leaks Leaks are one of the most common problems in your home water system. You can generate a significant amount of water loss with just a small leak that is relatively easy to fix. Toilets can leak from the tank into the bowl; if so, they should be replaced as soon as possible. Much of what people are looking for from their water supply is pressure— that strong water pressure that really knocks off dirt and grime.

Attaching an aerator to your sinks and shower will infuse that water with air, giving you the pressure you want while using much less water.

Go Low-Flow With the recent move to sustainability, there are now low-flow devices for just about Connecticut living

Green Living.indd 18

everything in your home. You can drastically reduce the amount of water in your shower (the biggest culprit), but there are also low-flow devices for kitchen and bathroom sinks. If you are installing a new toilet, look into a low-flow model as well. Of course, taking shorter showers is also a great way to save water.

A five-minute shower is usually enough for most people each day.

A timer on the shower, or just a kitchen timer in the bathroom, can make you more aware of how much time you spend in the shower.

Go Natural Keeping a green lawn is a sign of success for many. But you can save a lot of water, particularly in arid regions, by letting your lawn simply brown out each summer. You can

18

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Dance like

! r a t s a

Green Living

at the

also work to re-landscape your yard with drought-resistant plants that will still be attractive with much less water use.

If you haven’t heard of xeriscaping—the use of waterconserving techniques in arid lands—it might be time to start doing some research. If you aren’t quite ready for that step, be sure to water your lawn in the morning and evening, which prevents evaporation. Watering in short bursts of 10-15 minutes, will give all of the water time to soak in, so you won’t be watching your water flow down the street.

Harvest Your Rainwater Rainwater catchment systems are becoming more and more popular. Instead of rainwater rolling into the public sewer system, you can keep it in large barrels. Then, as the season dries out, you can use this harvested water for your lawn, yard, or garden, saving you money and reusing a resource that would otherwise have gone to waste.

—Sam Erickson

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Manufacturing a new car requires about 39,000 gallons of water.

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Even one small drip in a faucet can waste more than 60,000 gallons of water each year. Most leaky faucets are easy to fix.

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Connecticutliving.com

3/1/14 11:16 AM

Green Living

Garden Pest Control The Organic Way

G

ardens are a prime target for pests of all kinds—beetles, caterpillars, ladybugs, maggots, worms, and more. Keeping a garden pest free can be difficult, but not impossible. There are many methods for controlling garden pests, some more natural than others. Organic methods of control are, in fact, becoming very popular. plants. Floating row covers come in lightweight and heavyweight versions and work best on seedlings and really active pests. They are a temporary fix, as many plants require insect pollination.

Sticky traps are another method for keeping pests in check. You can purchase them or make them

One of the best ways to keep pests out of plants, and let the light and water in, is to use floating row covers. Made of porous polyester fabric, the covers can be applied in numerous ways—draped over hoops, attached to frames, wrapped around cages, or secured with pins over

Spring is Here!

If you’re planning on a garden this year, you owe yourself a visit to

one of Milford’s best kept secrets for your annuals, potted plants and vegetables!

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yourself. Just make sure the color of the trap you use appeals to the pests you are after. Yellow, for example, attracts fruit flies, fungus gnats, male-winged mealy bugs, and other pests. White attracts cucumber and flea beetles. Light blue attracts flower thrips, and red, flies that turn into apple maggots.

More than 350 varieties to choose from!

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And don't forget to visit us in June for “pick your own” strawberries!

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Green Living

The traps will lure insects through the color and trap them with a sticky coating.

If covers and traps are too much of a hassle, consider using sprays.

Insecticidal soap is a popular product that will eliminate any insects it comes into contact with.

It can burn some plants, however, so a spot test is recommended prior to use. Oil sprays are also effective.

As with insecticidal soaps, a spot test is recommended. Should you have a specific insect problem, bacillus thuringiensis (BT) is an option.

Make sure the product you select applies to the pests you are targeting.

Whatever the spray of choice, you

pluck the pests from the plants by hand and dispose of them properly. Just make sure you wear gloves and can handle the task at hand. Not all gardeners are keen on removing pests by hand.

These are just a few organic options for keeping pests under control. There are others. Consult with the experts at your local garden center or nursery. Ask around, and remember, what works for one gardener may not work for another. Keep trying until you come up with the right combination of methods that work for you.

— Tresa Erickso

be purchased by the billions and applied with water to eliminate pests.

For small infestations, you can forgo covers, traps, and sprays in favor of plain, old-fashioned handpicking. That’s right. You

should apply it only in areas where you know there is a problem.

Spraying the garden all over could drive away beneficial insects.

Parasitic nematodes are another organic solution to pests. These occur naturally in the soil but can

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3/1/14 11:17 AM

Do it Yourself

O

Meditate, Relax &Enjoy

H

ave you ever been to a Zen garden?

The Japanese rock gardens are intended to be a peaceful refuge and so are streamlined with carefully arranged elements on a base of sand or gravel. Zen gardens tend to be small and are often surrounded by a wall with a place for visitors to sit and meditate.

Does a Zen garden sound ideal to you? They are easy to create. First, you need a location. Keep in mind that Zen gardens are intended to be peaceful, so look for a spot in your yard away from play areas for the kids and pets. Think about the plants you hope to incorporate into your design and make sure you choose a site with

Connecticut living

DYI.indd 22

the right conditions.

Sand or gravel will serve as the base for your Zen garden, and you’ll need a form to contain it.

Lumber, railroad ties, and stone are some options for creating a form.

Once you have built and installed the form, you will need to put down some black landscaping fabric

to prevent weeds, and apply a thick layer of sand or gravel on top of it.

Now comes the fun part—the actual design. Zen gardens should be interesting but minimalist.

Look for natural elements like mossy logs, bushes, trees, and rocks to incorporate into the design; consider adding a water feature for

even more soothing appeal. Install some lighting for evening visits and rake the sand or gravel in ripples to create the look of water.

As with your home, be prepared for your Zen garden to evolve over time. Feel free to add or remove elements as you see fit. Just make sure you keep the garden clean and clutter free. Remember, the point of a Zen garden is to relax. The more tasks and things around you, the less likely you are to do so.

Unlike traditional gardens, Zen gardens require very little upkeep other than occasional weeding.

Weed yours as necessary and enjoy having your very own Japanese rock garden to meditate in. And, should you live in an urban area and have no space for a Zen garden, do not despair. You can create one in a container. Desktop Zen gardens have gained in popularity. One look online will uncover dozens of design plans. —Tresa Erickson

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3/1/14 11:17 AM

Do it Yourself

Oil Or Latex?

W

hat is the difference between oil and latex paint? Oil-based paint offers many advantages. It goes on smoothly and covers a lot. It shrinks very little, making sanding between coats unnecessary. It dries slowly, giving you more time to work. It produces a shiny, hard coat that is tough to penetrate and holds up well in high-traffic areas.

There are some drawbacks to using oil-based paint. It has a strong odor, making it difficult to work with for some people. Although hard, it will crack over time. It may also fade and yellow. Oil-based paint can be

and doesn’t yellow. It is also easy to clean up with soap and water. It does swell, however, making sanding between coats on wood essential.

For walls, many experts recommend latex. For wood, metal,

difficult to clean up. You must use solvents. It is also hazardous and must be disposed of properly.

Latex paint also offers advantages.

It is widely available and better for the environment. It dries quickly

and other surfaces, oil-based paint might be better. The choice is yours. Research the two options, discuss with professionals, and make your choice carefully. —Tresa Erickson

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Connecticutliving.com

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Home Trending

H T

Trending

What’s the Latest?

Outdoor Kitchens Hot for summer 2014: granite countertops. Not just made for inside the home, granite countertops are the most efficient, popular trend in expanded outdoor kitchen areas. People love to entertain and what better way that to have an outdoor living space, says Outdoor Kitchen LLC of Milford, a division of Eastern Marble & Granite in Milford.

A Breath of Fresh Air Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year is called Breath of Fresh Air. It’s a gorgeous, ethereal

blue serving as a “new neutral” that is livable and functional.

Benjamin Moore creative director Ellen O’Neill states, “We chose Breath of Fresh Air because we were seeing it across several different environments—it’s our new neutral. Our Color of the Year and Color Trends 2014 palette is a direct result of the fresh color cues and pastel trends we’ve seen throughout the home furnishing, fashion, and even pop culture landscape.”

Benjamin Moore paints can be found at Colony Paint on the Boston Post Road in Milford.

Color Lock technology matters. ®

Exceptional resistance to fading and scrubbing makes our paint extraordinarily irresistible.

Only Benjamin Moore® offers Color Lock Technology, for truer, richer colors that are extremely fade resistant and washable. And with a Benjamin Moore store in your neighborhood, it’s incredibly convenient too.

Visit benjaminmoore.com

©2013 Moore & Co., ben, Benjamin Moore andMoore the triangle “M” symbol are“M” symbol are ©2013Benjamin Benjamin Moore & Limited, Co., Limited, ben, Benjamin and the triangle registered trademarks and For that matters a trademark Benjamin Moore & Co Limited. registered trademarks andeverything For everything thatismatters is aoftrademark of Benjamin Moore & Co Limited.

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Connecticut living

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11/14/13 4:43 PM

3/1/14 11:17 AM

G H W g f T a p o a e C s c h

Patty Schein, M.Ed, LMFT, LPC

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Tax credits. Geothermal heating and cooling now qualify for 30 percent tax credits. When deciding on what’s best for your home and lifestyle, connect with an expert such as Air Perfect, Inc. Company president, Ted Chittem states, “I am here to help the client navigate through the hyperbole of the different

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green technologies. It can be frustrating with so many things to consider and so many new technologies competing for our attention.” Air Perfect, Inc. is located in Milford.

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Shags and Textures, Neutral Flooring According to Kauod Rugs and Flooring (stores in Orange and Guilford,) “There are so many trends in the flooring industry.

Traditional designs will always be the most timeless, but many people like the transitional look of some of the new area rugs or broadloom. There is variety and flexibility with colors, designs, and sizes. Shags and textures are very popular now. Neutrals tend to dominate the market because of their longevity, but bold colors in these designs are a favorite of many.” Shopping in a store with a wide range of products gives you the education, expertise, and value of the highest quality floor covering for your needs and budget. When it comes to flooring, Buddy Prete at Ultimate Interiors in Milford advises, “Hard surface floors such as wood, vinyl, laminate, tile, and bamboo give today’s consumer many choices when updating a room. Whether it’s a contemporary look you’re seeking or a rustic country feel, you’ll be sure to find a beautiful floor!”

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Connecticutliving.com

3/1/14 11:18 AM

Dollars Sense

What to Look For When Buying a Home

Y

ou’ve found a home that seems perfect. The rooms are the right size and the neighborhood ideal. But appearances can be deceiving, so before making an offer, take a closer look.

No home is perfect, but is it perfect for you? Experts highly recommend hiring a professional home inspector before closing the deal. The professional inspector is trained to do a thorough inspection of the interior and exterior of the home, pointing out potential problem areas and making recommendations. Arnold Peck, of Arnold Peck’s Property World and Arnold Peck’s Commercial World, advises, “The most important things when selecting a home inspector is to pick someone who is a member of the Society of Home Inspectors, known as ASHI, and someone who you are sure is qualified, someone who can provide references. This is one of the largest purchases in someone’s life so you need to pick an Connecticut living

Home Dollars & Sense.indd 26

inspector who is really qualified.”

Here are some areas to keep an eye on when house hunting: + Lawn and landscaping.

Most interior water problems begin with poor water drainage. For proper water run-off, the ground should be several inches below the siding and slope downhill away from the foundation at least one inch per foot for the first 5-6 feet. Negative slope adds to the potential for water incursion into the basement.

repairs. Again, the driveway should slope away from the house since poor slope can lead to water incursion in the garage and/or basement. Poor drainage on the driveway also contributes to faster deterioration. + Home exterior. A couple minor cracks in brick and mortar are common and correction should be considered a part of maintenance. Larger cracks, loose brick, and deteriorated mortar can be more costly to repair and indicate significant settlement.

+ Driveways & walkways.

Most walks and driveways have some cracks and can often be maintained by sealant. But significant deterioration can be a trip hazard and mean costly

Some cracks in foundations are common, but larger ones with deflections can be significant. Make note of any cracks that concern you

+ Foundation.

and be sure to discuss this with your home inspector. Look for significant surface deterioration and discoloring in the basement that may be due to water incursion. + Roof and chimney.

Check all sides of the house from ground level for broken, missing, lifting, or curling shingles. If you see any patching, don’t be afraid to ask the homeowner for the roof history and if there is any documentation from when it was professionally repaired. A quick overview of the visible components of the chimney can often reveal issues. Most roof systems should have gutters and leaders. Gutters should slope toward the leaders and the leaders should have extensions to direct the water away from the house.

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3/1/14 11:18 AM

Dollars Sense

+ Porches, decks, & patios.

Concrete or masonry porches and patios may have some common cracking that should be sealed.

Significant cracking and deterioration may be expensive to correct. Wood decks or porches are subject to decay if not properly maintained. Check the decking and under structure for rot. Make sure rails are secure and that any steps are stable. Your home inspector will check for other issues, but this is a good start. + siding. If not properly maintained, wood siding is susceptible to damage from moisture. Common areas to check

for decay are near the ground, and around junction points such as decks, windows, doors, and roofs.

Aluminum and vinyl siding are not subject to decay like wood, but each has its own potential problems: aluminum is subject to dents and deterioration of the finish. Vinyl is subject to cracking, particularly in cold weather. + Garage. You

can check walls, ceilings, and windows like any other part of the home. Test the garage door opener and auto reverse sensor if it has one. The garage slab should either slope downhill toward the overhead doors or have a drain.

+ Interior rooms. Some interior issues may be cosmetic; your home inspector can help you determine the difference.

You should know that minor deflections in floors, and small settlement cracks in walls and ceilings, are common and typically do not indicate significant issues. Large cracks and deflections can be signs of structural problems. Open and close a number of windows to check for proper function. Check for signs of water seepage around the windows. Are doors and hardware functioning properly?

Make sure all of the surfaces of

the bath are in good condition.

Turn on the sink and tub/shower to make sure it all works and there are no leaks. The kitchen is not only a functional room for food preparation, it is a gathering place for the family; design and layout can be important factors.

Check that appliances are in working condition.

A certain degree of minor updating or decorating is to be expected in homes. To buy a home with major structural defects needs money many do not plan for.

—Doris A. Black (with input from Bruce Schaefer, owner of Schaefer Inspection Services)

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Connecticutliving.com

3/1/14 11:18 AM

Dollars Sense

Choose wisely

The Right Builder Remodeling a home is a

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Your friends, relatives, co-workers,

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daunting task; doing so asks you

and just about everyone else is going

to be a designer, a space planner,

to give you advice on how to hire these

an architect, a financial planner,

professionals, no matter what the

and so many other things. It’s the

discipline. You will be introduced to

rare prospective homeowner who

a broad spectrum of people ranging

can excel at all these tasks, so for

from high-quality, experienced pros to

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out of work cousins. Even without a

the place you spend most of your

broad range of experience, you must

life, you need to trust and rely on

make choices that will cost you your

the help of professionals to make

hard earned money, but that you will

your dreams come true.

have to live with for years to come.

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these simple rules:

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Before you so much as hammer

and sketch out what you want.

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You don’t need to be an artist, but

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Connecticut living

Home Dollars & Sense.indd 28

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Dollars Sense

ideas make sense and that you can

to you if you they don’t understand

convey this information clearly to

your needs. It’s important that

the professionals you’re considering

you can speak clearly and

hiring. Almost without exception,

comfortably with them, and that

lack of clarity results in higher costs,

you’re able to tell them when

miscommunication, and you not

things are going properly…or not.

getting what you want or what

Also, a good communicator can

you’re paying for.

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and make sure you have an extra

rude, and it is not! People will

cushion; rare is the job that does

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not go over budget. Struggling with

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the stress of remodeling is hard

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Using these tips, you should find

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Connecticutliving.com

3/1/14 11:39 AM

Food

You Say Tomato…

I say Tomahto I

s it a fruit? Is it a vegetable? Well, technically it is a fruit, but is used as a vegetable in most of its cooking formats. The tomato is a healthy food, with its antioxidant lycopene gaining much attention in recent years. Tomatoes are available all year in canned, dried, paste, juiced, stewed, and fresh forms, making them a staple in many pantries. garden settings, especially nice if space is a challenge. Add some basil, rosemary, and oregano plants and you’ve got the ingredients to begin many tasty dishes.

Here in New England, tomatoes are one of the most popular picks for backyard and community gardens.Some varieties do exceptionally well in container

Fried Green Tomatoes 2 lbs.

1 c.

2 2 T.

green tomatoes, sliced canola oil for frying, or as needed eggs water

1 c.

1 c.

• • •

Avocado, Tomato & Mango Salsa

all-purpose flour yellow cornmeal Sea salt, to taste Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Line a baking sheet with waxed paper. Beat eggs and water and set aside.

Place flour and cornmeal in separate bowls. Season cornmeal with salt and pepper. Dip tomato slices in flour and then in egg mixture. Press into cornmeal mixture, shaking off excess. Transfer to baking sheet in a single layer. Heat about 1/4 inch canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry tomato slices in batches until golden crisp, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Drain and serve.

Connecticut living

Food.indd 30

and sun to grow. Many think this vine-like plant is too difficult to grow, but with a little research and proper soil, you will be enjoying the fruits of your labor with ease.

More often than not, gardeners end up with more produce than they can use. Lucky for you, there are lots of recipes that call for tomatoes. Here are just a few you can use for turning your harvest of tomatoes into savory dishes.

Consult your cookbooks for further recipes and enjoy!

—Lisa Turner

Tomato seedlings may be purchased at most farms and garden shops in our area. Just remember, it’s a warm weather crop, so the plants do not respond well to chilly temperatures. Wait until all signs of frost are gone before planting outdoors. Exposure to chilly nights below 50 degrees could ruin your plants. A good rule of thumb is to plant sometime between Mother’s Day and Memorial Day, depending on late spring temperatures.

Be patient. Your plants need time, water, staking, weeding,

1 avocado, peeled, pitted and diced 4 tomatoes, diced 1 mango, peeled, seeded and diced 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced

/ c. fresh cilantro, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced 1 t. salt 2 T. lime juice 1 4 / c. red onion, chopped 3 T. olive oil

1 2

Combine avocado, tomatoes, mango, jalapeno, cilantro, and garlic. Stir in remaining ingredients. Refrigerate for 30 minutes and serve. Note: If fresh mangos are difficult to get, Trader Joe’s has great frozen mangoes available.

They can be chopped down to proper size.

30

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A broken window is an open door, a threat to human and AAbroken window is an anopen openproperty. door, broken windowsafety is door, Multi-tenant commercial property, Michigan aathreat safety and andproperty. property. threatto to human human safety Multi-tenant commercial property, Michigan

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Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Arrange tomatoes, cut side up, in a shallow baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic, oregano, sugar, and salt. Bake for 1 hour. Turn tomatoes over and roast until caramelized and very soft, about 1 to 1-1/2 hours. Remove from oven and set aside to cool to room temperature, about 1 hour. Transfer tomato mixture to a blender and puree until smooth.

A better environment inside and out.™

Installation Summary Problem: Repeated break-ins

ExcessiveSummary heat and hot spots Installation Summary Installation

Safety and Security Window Films: Success Stories

Problem: Problem: Solution: Repeated break-ins Repeated break-ins Solar Gard Armorcoat 8 Mil Silver 35 Excessive heat and hothot spots Excessive heat and spots

Amount of film:

Installation Summary Solution: Solution: 6,150 sq. ft. (571 sq. meters) Solar Gard Armorcoat 8 Mil Silver 35 Problem:

Solar Gard Armorcoat 8 Mil Silver 35

Benefits: Repeated break-ins

Amount of film: Secured windows Excessive heat and hot from spots attempted Amount of film: 6,150 sq. ft. (571 sq. meters) break-ins

6,150 sq. ft. (571 sq. meters) Solution: Benefits: Rejected 43% of total solar energy Benefits: Solar Gard Armorcoat 8 Mil Silver 35 Secured windows from attempted

Dramatically reduced & glare Secured windows from heat attempted

break-insof film: Amount break-ins Reduced HVAC load & energy utility costs Rejected 43% ofsq. total solar 6,150 sq. ft.

(571 meters)

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Caprese Salad

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6 1 2 / lb.

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Combine tomatoes, olive oil, vinegar, and basil in a large bowl. Gently fold in mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Chill before serving.

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Safety capabilities were equipment. to an and easier target – the of total solar instantly energy and HVAC the on building moved Occupants instantly experienced increased filmtarget was installed, load. capabilities were onAfter to an the easier – the put toSafety the test whencomfort acomfort thief After unprotected commercial experienced increased the film was unable installed,to enter as rejected percent thieves were putthe to film thethe test when43 a thief unprotected commercial smashed windows to breakthieves property nextto door. astotal the film rejected 43and percent were unable enter of solar energy HVAC property the building and moved smashed thedenied windows toHVAC break next in, but was access. of total solar energy and the building anddoor. moved load.

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Safety capabilities wereand on toThe target – the The film’s Mil thickness Blain Group is both put the test whena a thief unprotected commercial The film’s 8test Milwhen thickness and The Blain Group is both put to to the thief unprotected commercial strong adhesive collectively impressed with the product’s strong adhesive collectively impressed with the product’s smashed thewindows windows break property property next door. smashed the toto break next door. held 10 shattered shattered window safety performance and its held 10was window safety performance and its in, was denied denied access. in, but but access. panes securely inthe the frame. ability to reduce HVAC load, panes securely frame. ability to reduce HVAC load, The film’s film’s 88 Mil thickness and Blain Group is both The Milin thickness and The The Blain Group is both Armorcoat safety film formed impacting theproduct’s company’s Armorcoat safety film formed a aimpressed impacting the with company’s strong adhesive adhesive collectively with the strong collectively impressed the product’s resilient barrier,and and the intruder bottom line. and its held 10 10 barrier, shattered safety performance resilient the intruder bottom line. held shatteredwindow window safety performance and its panes securely in the frame. ability to reduce HVAC load, was forced toflee flee before was forced to before panes securely in the frame. ability to reduce HVAC load, Armorcoatunwanted safety film attention. formed a impacting the company’s attracting unwanted attention. attracting Armorcoat safety impacting the company’s resilient barrier, andfilm the formed intruder a bottom line. resilient barrier, and the intruder bottom www.solargard.com line.www.solargard.com was forced to flee before was forcedunwanted to flee before attracting attention. attracting unwanted attention. www.solargard.com www.solargard.com

· Reinforceglass glass · ·More More difficult difficult totoshatter priceprice · Reinforce shatter· Affordable · Affordable Reinforce glass ·securely Moredifficult difficult shatter Affordable priceprice · Holdthethe glass· securely · 24/7 protection · Reinforce glass More shatter · Affordable · ·Hold glass in the thetotoframe frame ··24/7 protection · Holdprivacy the glass securely in the frame · 24/7toprotection · Daytime with Solar Control Control · Retrofits glass Holdprivacy theprivacy glass securely the frame · 24/7 protection · Daytime with Solar Retrofits toexisting existing · ·Daytime with Solar in Control · ·Retrofits to existing glassglass · Daytime privacy with Solar Control · Retrofits to existing glass

Catalog #PDF0163 SSJ. Rev 04/08 • © 2008 Bekaert Specialty Films, LLC • All Rights Reserved • www.solargard.com

Catalog #PDF0163 SSJ. Rev 04/08 • © 2008 Bekaert Specialty Films, LLC • All Rights Reserved • www.solargard.com

Catalog #PDF0163 SSJ. Rev 04/08 • © 2008 Bekaert Specialty Films, LLC • All Rights Reserved • www.solargard.com

Catalog #PDF0163 SSJ. Rev 04/08 • © 2008 Bekaert Specialty Films, LLC • All Rights Reserved • www.solargard.com

Regina A. Sirico - Owner

Regina Owner ReginaA. A. Sirico Sirico - -Owner Essentialglass.com Essentialglass.com Essentialglass.com Regina A. Sirico Owner Essentialfilms@sbcglobal.net Essentialfilms@sbcglobal.net Essentialfilms@sbcglobal.net Essentialglass.com Cell: 203-671-1773 Cell:203-671-1773 203-671-1773 Essentialfilms@sbcglobal.net Cell: Toll Free: Toll Free: 866-264-8468 866-264-8468 TheThekeykeytotohighhighperformance performance windows windows Toll Free: Cell: 866-264-8468 203-671-1773 The key to high performance windows Toll Free: 866-264-8468 The key to high performance windows 31

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