Home Sweet Home Magazine Fall 2019

HOME SWEET HOME

Choosing the right paint colors Get it right before you move into your new home

Let there be light

MAKING YOUR NEW HOUSE A HOME FALL 2019

Bright ideas create drama and function

WIN A

$250

AR C T F I G S ee pa

ge 2 3

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

D

®

From drab to fab

Five tips to spruce up your home

1

Contents

Winning the clutter battle: Storage solutions to keep a home clutter free

10

DECORATING & DESIGN

U

nder the direction of President and CEO Jake Jabs, American Furniture Warehouse

(AFW) has been actively involved with our community for more than 40 years. We’re proud

BETTER Your Home, BETTER Your School

B

to support a variety of causes in Arizona, Colorado and beyond, including education, youth, family, people in need, our environment, veterans, and

COMMUNIT Y

agriculture. We give to hundreds of different

all together now

ETTER Your Home, BETTER Your

non-profits, service organizations, K-12 schools,

School is an AFW-exclusive initiative that gives money back to schools all year round. When a participating school community shops at AFW, the company donates a percentage of the subtotal back to that school.

technical schools, and colleges on a regular basis.

E

ducation has always been important to Jake. AFW is committed to education, supporting schools over the years by donating furniture for special areas in schools, donating money for projects, and donating gift cards for use in silent auction fundraisers and special projects.

Student Tours

A

FW offers tours of our corporate location to thousands of high school and college students each year to teach them how a business like AFW operates.

Speaking at Schools

J

ake gives many talks to students at a number of high schools and colleges. He discusses his journey and how he got to where he is today, his belief in the free enterprise system and entrepreneurship, and his 39 keys to business success.

A division of Republic Media 200 E. Van Buren St. Phoenix, AZ 85004 EDITOR

Jim Williams DESIGN

Miles Abernethy SALES/POST-SALES SUPPORT

Sheila Vossler Office: 602-444-8793

VICE PRESIDENT, SALES-LOCAL

Kevin Martinelli Office: 602-444-8671 ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Brandon Rudd Office: 602-444-8709 Mobile: 480-980-4786

14 12

COVER

From drab to fab—five ‘totally cool, and entirely painless’ home decorating tips

FEATURE

Built to last: How to invest in outdoor furniture that stands the test of time

DEPARTMENTS NEWS & TRENDS

4

A baker’s-dozen of maintenance tips: 13 things your house asks of you every year

18 22 20

Springs vs. foam: Will this decision change your life?

KITCHEN & ENTERTAINING

P

6 8

AFW has worked to transport hundreds of bikes during Project ReCycle’s bike drives

The hard truth … about water

Planning your space 101

IDEAS & INSPIRATION

Growing pains: Designing a kids’ room that will grow with them

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

OUTDOOR LIVING

BED & BATH

roject ReCycle collects used bikes, fixes them, and then distributes them to children in need. AFW has worked to transport bikes during Project ReCycle’s bike drives, hauling hundreds of bikes from donation locations to the Project ReCycle shop.

2

Q&A: Kent Briggs, American Furniture Warehouse

10 flooring ideas that will knock your socks off

Project ReCycle

AFW.com

16

Let there be light: Interior fixtures available in a multitude of styles

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

KITCHEN BITES

Home is where the soup is

3

Contents

Winning the clutter battle: Storage solutions to keep a home clutter free

10

DECORATING & DESIGN

U

nder the direction of President and CEO Jake Jabs, American Furniture Warehouse

(AFW) has been actively involved with our community for more than 40 years. We’re proud

BETTER Your Home, BETTER Your School

B

to support a variety of causes in Arizona, Colorado and beyond, including education, youth, family, people in need, our environment, veterans, and

COMMUNIT Y

agriculture. We give to hundreds of different

all together now

ETTER Your Home, BETTER Your

non-profits, service organizations, K-12 schools,

School is an AFW-exclusive initiative that gives money back to schools all year round. When a participating school community shops at AFW, the company donates a percentage of the subtotal back to that school.

technical schools, and colleges on a regular basis.

E

ducation has always been important to Jake. AFW is committed to education, supporting schools over the years by donating furniture for special areas in schools, donating money for projects, and donating gift cards for use in silent auction fundraisers and special projects.

Student Tours

A

FW offers tours of our corporate location to thousands of high school and college students each year to teach them how a business like AFW operates.

Speaking at Schools

J

ake gives many talks to students at a number of high schools and colleges. He discusses his journey and how he got to where he is today, his belief in the free enterprise system and entrepreneurship, and his 39 keys to business success.

A division of Republic Media 200 E. Van Buren St. Phoenix, AZ 85004 EDITOR

Jim Williams DESIGN

Miles Abernethy SALES/POST-SALES SUPPORT

Sheila Vossler Office: 602-444-8793

VICE PRESIDENT, SALES-LOCAL

Kevin Martinelli Office: 602-444-8671 ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Brandon Rudd Office: 602-444-8709 Mobile: 480-980-4786

14 12

COVER

From drab to fab—five ‘totally cool, and entirely painless’ home decorating tips

FEATURE

Built to last: How to invest in outdoor furniture that stands the test of time

DEPARTMENTS NEWS & TRENDS

4

A baker’s-dozen of maintenance tips: 13 things your house asks of you every year

18 22 20

Springs vs. foam: Will this decision change your life?

KITCHEN & ENTERTAINING

P

6 8

AFW has worked to transport hundreds of bikes during Project ReCycle’s bike drives

The hard truth … about water

Planning your space 101

IDEAS & INSPIRATION

Growing pains: Designing a kids’ room that will grow with them

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

OUTDOOR LIVING

BED & BATH

roject ReCycle collects used bikes, fixes them, and then distributes them to children in need. AFW has worked to transport bikes during Project ReCycle’s bike drives, hauling hundreds of bikes from donation locations to the Project ReCycle shop.

2

Q&A: Kent Briggs, American Furniture Warehouse

10 flooring ideas that will knock your socks off

Project ReCycle

AFW.com

16

Let there be light: Interior fixtures available in a multitude of styles

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

KITCHEN BITES

Home is where the soup is

3

News & Trends

A baker’s-dozen of maintenance tips:

13 things your house asks of you every year As the spring turns to summer, many of us turn our attention to getting things done around the house, starting new projects and fix-up jobs. But your house also wants (and needs) your attention for certain maintenance items.

The notion that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure is certainly true when it comes to home upkeep. At the same time, most homeowners will defer maintenance until a problem arises. Unknowingly, they are trading a few-dollar investment today for more costly repair tomorrow.

Here, the plumbing and HVAC experts at Mason Mechanical & Plumbing highlight 13 simple home maintenance tips that can help you spot potential problems early before they become costly repairs or safety hazards later on.

7 | Change the batteries in your home’s carbon monoxide detector and smoke detectors every year. In a National Fire Protection Association study looking at home fire statistics between 2007 and 2011, smoke alarms were present in 73 percent of the reported home fires, but only sounded in roughly half (52 percent) of them. And let’s not forget that carbon monoxide poisonings are the more common than some think during the busy holiday season.

1 | Clean your windows. Go beyond aesthetics here. Cleaning the outside of your windows, creates the opportunity to inspect the exterior of your home, which many people rarely do. You’ll spot broken screens and cracks in stucco and weather stripping around windows and doors that may need your attention.

8 | Check the faucets and toilets in rarely used rooms. If you have guest quarters or a room that doesn’t see much activity, make sure the toilet is flushed and sink used, or shower turned on and off at least once a week. Dry rot and other problems could create larger repairs when these items go unused for long periods.

2 | Caulk. A four-dollar tube of caulk can potentially save you thousands in repairs. Tubs and showers are common areas of concern. Once caulked areas show signs of wear, strip off the old caulk and re-seal. It keeps the mold out—along with lots of bigger problems. Sealed areas around windows where caulk may be aged or peeling are also problem zones. Check annually or semi-annually.

9 | Clean the range hood filters. This one is often overlooked and having a filter that doesn’t do the job can be problematic for a home that doesn’t vent well. It can also allow for carbon monoxide levels to build up when gas appliances are used often.

10 | Vacuum your refrigerator coils. Dust collection creates unnecessary heat for the appliance’s motor and can wear it down prematurely.

3 | Have your heating and cooling checked twice a year, once in the fall or winter for the heating element and also in the spring to make sure the air conditioner is ready for the summer heat. Have a licensed HVAC contractor do this, not a handyman.

11 | Check the outdoor water hose bib. Small leaks should be addressed as to not become big leaks later.

4 | Test your garage door opener’s auto-reverse feature. To prevent children, animals and others from being pinned under the weight of a garage door, the auto-reverse feature has been mandated on garage door openers since the early 90s. Simply place an item, like a small two-by-four or a ball, in the path of the garage door while the opener is in operation. When the door touches the item, it should automatically change directions. If the opener does not immediately reverse the door, then your opener is considered unsafe.

5 | Clean your dryer vent at least once a year. It’s likely the greatest fire hazard out there. Nearly 3,000 clothes dryer vent fires are reported annually, causing an average of 5 deaths, 100 injuries and $35 million in property losses, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

4

6 | Stay on top of changing your home’s air filters.

This is especially important for keeping home allergens and dust at bay, particularly if you have pets in your home.

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

12 | Sprinkler systems should also be checked for operability and leaks at the change of seasons, like before weather cools and before the summer heat hits.

This is also a great time to check your irrigation timer settings and run times. Your plants obviously need more water in the summer than winter.

13 | Check your hot water heater for damage and corrosion as well as the inlet and outlet water pipes for the same.

A professional plumber can spot leaks and if other things like a sacrificial anode rod needs replacement, a plumber will know that, too. This item should be changed every other year to keep your water heater from corroding prematurely.

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

To learn more about Mason Mechanical and Plumbing, visit masonmechanical.com or masonmechanical.com/ plumbing. For HVAC inquiries, call 602-680-5086; for plumbing inquiries, call 480-422-6760.

5

News & Trends

A baker’s-dozen of maintenance tips:

13 things your house asks of you every year As the spring turns to summer, many of us turn our attention to getting things done around the house, starting new projects and fix-up jobs. But your house also wants (and needs) your attention for certain maintenance items.

The notion that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure is certainly true when it comes to home upkeep. At the same time, most homeowners will defer maintenance until a problem arises. Unknowingly, they are trading a few-dollar investment today for more costly repair tomorrow.

Here, the plumbing and HVAC experts at Mason Mechanical & Plumbing highlight 13 simple home maintenance tips that can help you spot potential problems early before they become costly repairs or safety hazards later on.

7 | Change the batteries in your home’s carbon monoxide detector and smoke detectors every year. In a National Fire Protection Association study looking at home fire statistics between 2007 and 2011, smoke alarms were present in 73 percent of the reported home fires, but only sounded in roughly half (52 percent) of them. And let’s not forget that carbon monoxide poisonings are the more common than some think during the busy holiday season.

1 | Clean your windows. Go beyond aesthetics here. Cleaning the outside of your windows, creates the opportunity to inspect the exterior of your home, which many people rarely do. You’ll spot broken screens and cracks in stucco and weather stripping around windows and doors that may need your attention.

8 | Check the faucets and toilets in rarely used rooms. If you have guest quarters or a room that doesn’t see much activity, make sure the toilet is flushed and sink used, or shower turned on and off at least once a week. Dry rot and other problems could create larger repairs when these items go unused for long periods.

2 | Caulk. A four-dollar tube of caulk can potentially save you thousands in repairs. Tubs and showers are common areas of concern. Once caulked areas show signs of wear, strip off the old caulk and re-seal. It keeps the mold out—along with lots of bigger problems. Sealed areas around windows where caulk may be aged or peeling are also problem zones. Check annually or semi-annually.

9 | Clean the range hood filters. This one is often overlooked and having a filter that doesn’t do the job can be problematic for a home that doesn’t vent well. It can also allow for carbon monoxide levels to build up when gas appliances are used often.

10 | Vacuum your refrigerator coils. Dust collection creates unnecessary heat for the appliance’s motor and can wear it down prematurely.

3 | Have your heating and cooling checked twice a year, once in the fall or winter for the heating element and also in the spring to make sure the air conditioner is ready for the summer heat. Have a licensed HVAC contractor do this, not a handyman.

11 | Check the outdoor water hose bib. Small leaks should be addressed as to not become big leaks later.

4 | Test your garage door opener’s auto-reverse feature. To prevent children, animals and others from being pinned under the weight of a garage door, the auto-reverse feature has been mandated on garage door openers since the early 90s. Simply place an item, like a small two-by-four or a ball, in the path of the garage door while the opener is in operation. When the door touches the item, it should automatically change directions. If the opener does not immediately reverse the door, then your opener is considered unsafe.

5 | Clean your dryer vent at least once a year. It’s likely the greatest fire hazard out there. Nearly 3,000 clothes dryer vent fires are reported annually, causing an average of 5 deaths, 100 injuries and $35 million in property losses, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

4

6 | Stay on top of changing your home’s air filters.

This is especially important for keeping home allergens and dust at bay, particularly if you have pets in your home.

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

12 | Sprinkler systems should also be checked for operability and leaks at the change of seasons, like before weather cools and before the summer heat hits.

This is also a great time to check your irrigation timer settings and run times. Your plants obviously need more water in the summer than winter.

13 | Check your hot water heater for damage and corrosion as well as the inlet and outlet water pipes for the same.

A professional plumber can spot leaks and if other things like a sacrificial anode rod needs replacement, a plumber will know that, too. This item should be changed every other year to keep your water heater from corroding prematurely.

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

To learn more about Mason Mechanical and Plumbing, visit masonmechanical.com or masonmechanical.com/ plumbing. For HVAC inquiries, call 602-680-5086; for plumbing inquiries, call 480-422-6760.

5

News & Trends

Planning your space 101 You’ve read countless home design blogs. You’ve combined all the best looks into a stellar Pinterest board. You’ve made a list of every piece of furniture you want to own. You are totally ready to buy your dream furniture, right? Not so fast. There’s one crucial step you need to take before making your furniture dreams come true: planning your space.

While it’s obviously necessary to make sure that any furniture you buy will physically fit in your space, it’s also important to go one step further and make sure that it will also function in your space.

Even the most perfect sectional that can hold the whole family for movie night will only become a huge nuisance if it makes it impossible to walk around the room. Fortunately, it’s easy to avoid problems like this by planning your room layout and considering the space around the furniture as well as the furniture itself.

MEASURE TWICE, BUY ONCE

The first step in planning your space is figuring out how much space you have to work with. Begin by measuring your room, making sure that you also measure any doors and windows as well as the pathway furniture will take to get to the room.

Once you have all your measurements, create a floor plan of your room using graph paper or a tool like

the AFW Space Planner. This will allow you to easily visualize the layout of the space by drawing or placing to-scale representations of furniture in the floor plan.

PLANNING BASICS

After you’ve measured your home and created a floor plan, it’s time to get planning with two important considerations. First, traffic ways should be separated from the center of activities. After all, having someone walk through a conversation because it’s the only way to enter or exit a room is a little disruptive. If it’s not possible to avoid through traffic, try to direct your walkways around conversation areas. Second, moving around the room should be as direct as possible but not interfere with furniture placement.

The goal is to make it easy to walk around the room without placing furniture in awkward spots. With these basics in mind, you’re ready to move on to the specifics that make each room enjoyably functional.

LIVING ROOM

Your living room functions as everything from a solo movie theater to a gathering space, so consider your potential uses for the room when planning the layout. Be sure to account for the extra space motion furniture needs when it’s reclined as well as any drawers, doors, or lift tops on cocktail and end tables.

If your living room has a TV in it, also consider how far your seating should be from the screen to get the best viewing experience.

This depends on your TV’s size and resolution—the bigger the TV and the lower the resolution, the further back you should sit.

LIVING ROOMS

When Quality and Value Matter Most...

Main traffic way: 36˝ Circulation around furniture: 24˝ Conversation area: 10-foot diameter Space between sofa and cocktail table: 12˝ to 18˝

BEDROOMS

Major circulation path: 24˝ One side or foot of bed for dressing: 42˝ One side of bed for circulation: 22˝ Least used side of bed: 12˝ In front of dresser, chest, and closet: 36˝

Call for a FREE in-home Estimate!

(602) 607-1437 WindowWorldAZ.com

2530 W. Holly St. Phoenix, AZ 85009 Exceptional Quality

Made in USA

DINING ROOMS

Dining chairs plus walkway behind chairs: 38˝ Dining chairs plus enough space for serving: 42˝ Each individual eating space at a dining table: 24˝ From table to the edge of a sideboard or cabinet: 48˝ 6

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

Exceptional Quality

Made in USA

*SolarZone™ Sun Shield Featuring a 0.14 SHGC Rating applies to standard 3 .” frame windows. $3,725 Special includes 7 Premium white vinyl 3 .” frame sliding 2-lite windows with SolarZone™ Sun Shield / Cardinal 340 Glass (0.14 SHGC), up to a 6’ X 6’ size per window. Additional charge for tempered or obscure glass, grids between glass or window color upgrades. May not be combined with any other offer or discount. Offer Expires September 30th, 2019. Additional restrictions may apply. Call for details. This Window World® Franchise is independently owned and operated by (DBA) Window World of Phoenix under license from Window World, Inc. ROC # 224119 Color Palette

Exceptional Quality

Exceptional Quality

Made in USA

Made in USA

CMYK: 0, 100, 36, 37

CMYK: 0, 8, 22, 56

RGB: 147, 22, 56

PANTONE® 1955 C

Hex #: 931638

RGB: 140, 127, 112

PANTONE®

Warm Grey 9 C

Hex #: 8C7F70

7

News & Trends

Planning your space 101 You’ve read countless home design blogs. You’ve combined all the best looks into a stellar Pinterest board. You’ve made a list of every piece of furniture you want to own. You are totally ready to buy your dream furniture, right? Not so fast. There’s one crucial step you need to take before making your furniture dreams come true: planning your space.

While it’s obviously necessary to make sure that any furniture you buy will physically fit in your space, it’s also important to go one step further and make sure that it will also function in your space.

Even the most perfect sectional that can hold the whole family for movie night will only become a huge nuisance if it makes it impossible to walk around the room. Fortunately, it’s easy to avoid problems like this by planning your room layout and considering the space around the furniture as well as the furniture itself.

MEASURE TWICE, BUY ONCE

The first step in planning your space is figuring out how much space you have to work with. Begin by measuring your room, making sure that you also measure any doors and windows as well as the pathway furniture will take to get to the room.

Once you have all your measurements, create a floor plan of your room using graph paper or a tool like

the AFW Space Planner. This will allow you to easily visualize the layout of the space by drawing or placing to-scale representations of furniture in the floor plan.

PLANNING BASICS

After you’ve measured your home and created a floor plan, it’s time to get planning with two important considerations. First, traffic ways should be separated from the center of activities. After all, having someone walk through a conversation because it’s the only way to enter or exit a room is a little disruptive. If it’s not possible to avoid through traffic, try to direct your walkways around conversation areas. Second, moving around the room should be as direct as possible but not interfere with furniture placement.

The goal is to make it easy to walk around the room without placing furniture in awkward spots. With these basics in mind, you’re ready to move on to the specifics that make each room enjoyably functional.

LIVING ROOM

Your living room functions as everything from a solo movie theater to a gathering space, so consider your potential uses for the room when planning the layout. Be sure to account for the extra space motion furniture needs when it’s reclined as well as any drawers, doors, or lift tops on cocktail and end tables.

If your living room has a TV in it, also consider how far your seating should be from the screen to get the best viewing experience.

This depends on your TV’s size and resolution—the bigger the TV and the lower the resolution, the further back you should sit.

LIVING ROOMS

When Quality and Value Matter Most...

Main traffic way: 36˝ Circulation around furniture: 24˝ Conversation area: 10-foot diameter Space between sofa and cocktail table: 12˝ to 18˝

BEDROOMS

Major circulation path: 24˝ One side or foot of bed for dressing: 42˝ One side of bed for circulation: 22˝ Least used side of bed: 12˝ In front of dresser, chest, and closet: 36˝

Call for a FREE in-home Estimate!

(602) 607-1437 WindowWorldAZ.com

2530 W. Holly St. Phoenix, AZ 85009 Exceptional Quality

Made in USA

DINING ROOMS

Dining chairs plus walkway behind chairs: 38˝ Dining chairs plus enough space for serving: 42˝ Each individual eating space at a dining table: 24˝ From table to the edge of a sideboard or cabinet: 48˝ 6

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

Exceptional Quality

Made in USA

*SolarZone™ Sun Shield Featuring a 0.14 SHGC Rating applies to standard 3 .” frame windows. $3,725 Special includes 7 Premium white vinyl 3 .” frame sliding 2-lite windows with SolarZone™ Sun Shield / Cardinal 340 Glass (0.14 SHGC), up to a 6’ X 6’ size per window. Additional charge for tempered or obscure glass, grids between glass or window color upgrades. May not be combined with any other offer or discount. Offer Expires September 30th, 2019. Additional restrictions may apply. Call for details. This Window World® Franchise is independently owned and operated by (DBA) Window World of Phoenix under license from Window World, Inc. ROC # 224119 Color Palette

Exceptional Quality

Exceptional Quality

Made in USA

Made in USA

CMYK: 0, 100, 36, 37

CMYK: 0, 8, 22, 56

RGB: 147, 22, 56

PANTONE® 1955 C

Hex #: 931638

RGB: 140, 127, 112

PANTONE®

Warm Grey 9 C

Hex #: 8C7F70

7

Ideas & Inspiration

FREE HEARING TEST

Let’s start the conversation.

Growing pains designing a kid’s room that will grow with them The nursery has pale

yellow walls, a white crib and changing table, and a rocking chair. In this moment, it’s perfect. But you know that in the blink of an eye, this space will transform into a mélange of soccer gear and stuffed animals, the site of sleep-overs and nightly homework.

Invest in transitional furniture Select a bed that will grow along with your child.

Toddler beds can guide you from crib to elementary school. A trundle bed offers storage and space for inevitable giggleinfused sleepover guests. Choose finishes and colors that will remain neutral for 10 or more years.

TINY TO TEEN!

Get strategic with storage Toy boxes are great for little kids, but your teenager might not that box at the end of their bed. Consider strategic ways to address storage for your kids. Cubby walls that hold baskets of toys today can display books, soccer trophies and picture frames tomorrow.

Consider these three factors when planning your nursery or kid’s room. These techniques can take you from infancy to childhood and even the teen years.

Retain a blank canvas Rather than selecting a color theme during infancy that’s sure to feel out of place in a few years, keep the room neutral and let your

That peaceful nursery is going to undergo a change just like its precious inhabitant.

But your child’s bedroom doesn’t need to go through a routine metamorphosis.

You can, actually, design a space that grows with them.

N

o matter the size of your home— whether it’s your first apartment or a five-bedroom dream home—there’s one enemy you’re likely to fight: Clutter.

You can hire professional organizers to cure your home of its clutter crisis. Netflix has an entire series devoted to the philosophies of an anti-clutter guru. Then there are baskets to hold the bins that contain the trays for hiding your stuff. A side table or ottoman that offers hidden storage.

Clutter is like a virus. It grows and spreads, and usually ends up ruining a perfectly good weekend. Follow these tips to keep your home free from clutter.

Assess your environment Look at the places where clutter starts to form to determine the

8

Winning the clutter battle

Storage solutions to keep a home clutter free

child’s personality determine the design over time. Whether it’s a bend toward blue or pink, or something completely different, you can create a color theme through accents such as artwork, window coverings and lampshades. Standard-size frames can house artwork that changes over time—you can affordably replace today’s poster of action figures with a favorite outfielder in a decade.

Personalize with textiles It’s easy and affordable to swap out curtains, rugs, bedspreads and pillows with your child as he or she grows. It’s also fun! Plan an afternoon to find a new bedspread, whether the theme is superheroes or ballet. Let those easily changed aspects evolve over time, while furniture such as dressers, chairs and beds can last an entire childhood. remedy. If your family creates a pile of shoes each day by the door, it’s time to find a basket or cupboard to store them. A decorative box or accordion file can defeat a growing pile of papers on a desk.

Give everything a home Chances are, your cluttered space is in such a state because there’s nowhere to put the junk. Make sure everything has a home, whether it’s a cubby, box or shelf. Put things back in their allotted space.

Conduct midnight sweeps Each night before heading to bed, address your clutter zones.

It takes a mere 30 seconds to put a box of cereal back in the pantry, fold a blanket on the arm of a sofa or put the mail where it belongs. You’ll start the day fresh.

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

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One-year warranty on Audiotone Pro CIC. Does not apply to prior purchases. See store for details. Offer expires 8/31/19. Apple and iPhone are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners. ©2019 Miracle-Ear.

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

9

Ideas & Inspiration

FREE HEARING TEST

Let’s start the conversation.

Growing pains designing a kid’s room that will grow with them The nursery has pale

yellow walls, a white crib and changing table, and a rocking chair. In this moment, it’s perfect. But you know that in the blink of an eye, this space will transform into a mélange of soccer gear and stuffed animals, the site of sleep-overs and nightly homework.

Invest in transitional furniture Select a bed that will grow along with your child.

Toddler beds can guide you from crib to elementary school. A trundle bed offers storage and space for inevitable giggleinfused sleepover guests. Choose finishes and colors that will remain neutral for 10 or more years.

TINY TO TEEN!

Get strategic with storage Toy boxes are great for little kids, but your teenager might not that box at the end of their bed. Consider strategic ways to address storage for your kids. Cubby walls that hold baskets of toys today can display books, soccer trophies and picture frames tomorrow.

Consider these three factors when planning your nursery or kid’s room. These techniques can take you from infancy to childhood and even the teen years.

Retain a blank canvas Rather than selecting a color theme during infancy that’s sure to feel out of place in a few years, keep the room neutral and let your

That peaceful nursery is going to undergo a change just like its precious inhabitant.

But your child’s bedroom doesn’t need to go through a routine metamorphosis.

You can, actually, design a space that grows with them.

N

o matter the size of your home— whether it’s your first apartment or a five-bedroom dream home—there’s one enemy you’re likely to fight: Clutter.

You can hire professional organizers to cure your home of its clutter crisis. Netflix has an entire series devoted to the philosophies of an anti-clutter guru. Then there are baskets to hold the bins that contain the trays for hiding your stuff. A side table or ottoman that offers hidden storage.

Clutter is like a virus. It grows and spreads, and usually ends up ruining a perfectly good weekend. Follow these tips to keep your home free from clutter.

Assess your environment Look at the places where clutter starts to form to determine the

8

Winning the clutter battle

Storage solutions to keep a home clutter free

child’s personality determine the design over time. Whether it’s a bend toward blue or pink, or something completely different, you can create a color theme through accents such as artwork, window coverings and lampshades. Standard-size frames can house artwork that changes over time—you can affordably replace today’s poster of action figures with a favorite outfielder in a decade.

Personalize with textiles It’s easy and affordable to swap out curtains, rugs, bedspreads and pillows with your child as he or she grows. It’s also fun! Plan an afternoon to find a new bedspread, whether the theme is superheroes or ballet. Let those easily changed aspects evolve over time, while furniture such as dressers, chairs and beds can last an entire childhood. remedy. If your family creates a pile of shoes each day by the door, it’s time to find a basket or cupboard to store them. A decorative box or accordion file can defeat a growing pile of papers on a desk.

Give everything a home Chances are, your cluttered space is in such a state because there’s nowhere to put the junk. Make sure everything has a home, whether it’s a cubby, box or shelf. Put things back in their allotted space.

Conduct midnight sweeps Each night before heading to bed, address your clutter zones.

It takes a mere 30 seconds to put a box of cereal back in the pantry, fold a blanket on the arm of a sofa or put the mail where it belongs. You’ll start the day fresh.

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

“My husband did NOT want hearing aids… in fact three other sets were ignored in his nightstand drawer. As a last resort, I tried Miracle-Ear Paradise Valley and Kim was the answer to my prayers. She has infinite patience and willingly explained the procedure, tests etc. Billy can hear for the first time in years.”

- JUDY E.

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Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

9

Decorating & Design

Let there be light Interior fixtures available in a multitude of styles

By Debra Gelbart

Lighting your home can be challenging, in

part because there are so many choices and partly because it’s difficult to know which type of lighting is optimal for each interior space. But Jenelle Lovings, a senior interior designer with Creative License International, has some advice.

shade,” Lovings said. “This type of fixture will provide a direct spotlight for any work surface.” Homeowners must also consider the wattage of particular light fixtures, she said, because if the wattage is too low, the fixture may not function as needed.

If you’re looking for a general illumination of a space, “choose fixtures that have a more translucent shade and maybe multiple sockets (such as in a chandelier). This will allow the light

BASIC GUIDELINES

“For functional, task-oriented lighting, homeowners should look for fixtures that have an adjustable opaque

Q&A: Kent Briggs, American Furniture Warehouse Beautiful new

of pieces at a time will have a big impact on the look of a room.

A visit to our clearance center is a must for those on a budget. We can help design an entire room, all at once, or one piece at a time.

Y

ou realize it’s time to think about some new furniture, but your budget is tight. We asked Kent Briggs, a sales representative at American Furniture Warehouse in Glendale, how you can maximize the impact of a less than total furniture makeover.

furniture doesn’t have to cost a fortune

Q: WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO GET THE BIGGEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK WHEN BUYING NEW FURNITURE?

A: Focus on redoing one room at a time. If the greatest need is the living room, tackle that first. Select your main piece(s) first: sofa, loveseat, chair, ottoman. If you can’t afford an entire room full of furniture and accessories all at once, purchasing a couple 10

And don’t feel like you might get a better deal by buying a furniture set. Our everyday low pricing allows the customer to purchase only the furniture pieces needed without feeling like they have to purchase the entire collection to get a better deal.

Q: HOW IMPORTANT IS PRICE?

A: Price is important, but it’s more important to purchase high-quality furniture that’s going to last. Ask yourself how the furniture will be used in your home, who will be using it, how much it will be used by kids and whether pets will be allowed on it. The furniture has to hold up to the home environment. It’s a mistake to consider only the price of furniture.

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

to disperse throughout a room.” Keep in mind, she said, that the sheerer the shade, the brighter the light.

“Chandeliers are a great lighting solution,” Lovings said. “They provide general illumination as well as a focal point for any space. Current chandelier trends are mid-century styles with metallic finishes, particularly copper. Gone are the days of crystal fixtures.”

In addition, homeowners should be mindful of the type of bulbs used in their light fixtures. “Bulbs that produce a soft white light are always the most aesthetically pleasing.”

Larger, more permanent fixtures, such as chandeliers and wall sconces, are ideal for classic styles rather than trendy looks, Lovings said. “Trendier pieces (those with geometric lines, for example) should be limited to lamps, as they can be updated easily.”

LIGHTING WITH PURPOSE

Each room serves a different purpose and lends itself to a different activity, Lovings pointed out, noting that kitchen countertops, for example, require task lighting. “I prefer a layering of light in this area,” she said. “Directional light from recessed cans or track lighting, coupled with under-cabinet lighting, are the most effective ways to light a work surface. In a bathroom, lighting directly over your sink is standard. If you’re applying makeup, having additional lighting is always helpful.

This can be done with sconces or even lighting integrated in mirrors.”

Enjoy Your New Home to its Fullest

SINCE

Homeowners should shy away from toe-kick lightning in cabinetry, she said. “It always feels forced and uninspiring. If you want to incorporate ambient lighting in a kitchen or bathroom, always go up, not down.”

Adding lighting in glass upper cabinets or along the tops of uppers to wash the ceiling results in elegance and sophistication.

Discover the timeless customer service of Baker Bros. as together we make this new home YOUR HOME.

LAYERED, THOUGHTFUL LIGHTING CAN APPROACH PERFECTION

Proudly serving Valley Homeowners since 1945

Ultimately, Lovings emphasized, “there is no one perfect light. The most successful spaces have a layering of light to achieve the needs of that space.” Recessed can lights are great for general illumination of a space, but they can be difficult to maintain based on their location. Pendant lights can be beautiful but shouldn’t be used as a primary light source because they may not provide enough light. Floor and table lamps are great, for a space that lacks adequate lighting, but they don’t disperse light evenly.

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

1945

All Flooring Imaginable All Flooring Installed

area rugs & flooring •since 1945

w w w. b a k e r b r o s . c o m 835 E. Camelback Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85014 602-457-1957

4909 W. Chandler Blvd.

Chandler, AZ 85226 480-210-4514

1702 S. Val Vista Dr. 3719 E. Bell Rd. Mesa, AZ 85204 Phoenix, AZ 85032 480-210-3784 602-638-1956

5090 N. Hayden Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85250 480-210-3667

12483 W. Bell Rd. Surprise, AZ 85374 602-457-7607

6950 W. Bell Road Glendale, AZ 85308 602-666-7190

11

Decorating & Design

Let there be light Interior fixtures available in a multitude of styles

By Debra Gelbart

Lighting your home can be challenging, in

part because there are so many choices and partly because it’s difficult to know which type of lighting is optimal for each interior space. But Jenelle Lovings, a senior interior designer with Creative License International, has some advice.

shade,” Lovings said. “This type of fixture will provide a direct spotlight for any work surface.” Homeowners must also consider the wattage of particular light fixtures, she said, because if the wattage is too low, the fixture may not function as needed.

If you’re looking for a general illumination of a space, “choose fixtures that have a more translucent shade and maybe multiple sockets (such as in a chandelier). This will allow the light

BASIC GUIDELINES

“For functional, task-oriented lighting, homeowners should look for fixtures that have an adjustable opaque

Q&A: Kent Briggs, American Furniture Warehouse Beautiful new

of pieces at a time will have a big impact on the look of a room.

A visit to our clearance center is a must for those on a budget. We can help design an entire room, all at once, or one piece at a time.

Y

ou realize it’s time to think about some new furniture, but your budget is tight. We asked Kent Briggs, a sales representative at American Furniture Warehouse in Glendale, how you can maximize the impact of a less than total furniture makeover.

furniture doesn’t have to cost a fortune

Q: WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO GET THE BIGGEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK WHEN BUYING NEW FURNITURE?

A: Focus on redoing one room at a time. If the greatest need is the living room, tackle that first. Select your main piece(s) first: sofa, loveseat, chair, ottoman. If you can’t afford an entire room full of furniture and accessories all at once, purchasing a couple 10

And don’t feel like you might get a better deal by buying a furniture set. Our everyday low pricing allows the customer to purchase only the furniture pieces needed without feeling like they have to purchase the entire collection to get a better deal.

Q: HOW IMPORTANT IS PRICE?

A: Price is important, but it’s more important to purchase high-quality furniture that’s going to last. Ask yourself how the furniture will be used in your home, who will be using it, how much it will be used by kids and whether pets will be allowed on it. The furniture has to hold up to the home environment. It’s a mistake to consider only the price of furniture.

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

to disperse throughout a room.” Keep in mind, she said, that the sheerer the shade, the brighter the light.

“Chandeliers are a great lighting solution,” Lovings said. “They provide general illumination as well as a focal point for any space. Current chandelier trends are mid-century styles with metallic finishes, particularly copper. Gone are the days of crystal fixtures.”

In addition, homeowners should be mindful of the type of bulbs used in their light fixtures. “Bulbs that produce a soft white light are always the most aesthetically pleasing.”

Larger, more permanent fixtures, such as chandeliers and wall sconces, are ideal for classic styles rather than trendy looks, Lovings said. “Trendier pieces (those with geometric lines, for example) should be limited to lamps, as they can be updated easily.”

LIGHTING WITH PURPOSE

Each room serves a different purpose and lends itself to a different activity, Lovings pointed out, noting that kitchen countertops, for example, require task lighting. “I prefer a layering of light in this area,” she said. “Directional light from recessed cans or track lighting, coupled with under-cabinet lighting, are the most effective ways to light a work surface. In a bathroom, lighting directly over your sink is standard. If you’re applying makeup, having additional lighting is always helpful.

This can be done with sconces or even lighting integrated in mirrors.”

Enjoy Your New Home to its Fullest

SINCE

Homeowners should shy away from toe-kick lightning in cabinetry, she said. “It always feels forced and uninspiring. If you want to incorporate ambient lighting in a kitchen or bathroom, always go up, not down.”

Adding lighting in glass upper cabinets or along the tops of uppers to wash the ceiling results in elegance and sophistication.

Discover the timeless customer service of Baker Bros. as together we make this new home YOUR HOME.

LAYERED, THOUGHTFUL LIGHTING CAN APPROACH PERFECTION

Proudly serving Valley Homeowners since 1945

Ultimately, Lovings emphasized, “there is no one perfect light. The most successful spaces have a layering of light to achieve the needs of that space.” Recessed can lights are great for general illumination of a space, but they can be difficult to maintain based on their location. Pendant lights can be beautiful but shouldn’t be used as a primary light source because they may not provide enough light. Floor and table lamps are great, for a space that lacks adequate lighting, but they don’t disperse light evenly.

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

1945

All Flooring Imaginable All Flooring Installed

area rugs & flooring •since 1945

w w w. b a k e r b r o s . c o m 835 E. Camelback Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85014 602-457-1957

4909 W. Chandler Blvd.

Chandler, AZ 85226 480-210-4514

1702 S. Val Vista Dr. 3719 E. Bell Rd. Mesa, AZ 85204 Phoenix, AZ 85032 480-210-3784 602-638-1956

5090 N. Hayden Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85250 480-210-3667

12483 W. Bell Rd. Surprise, AZ 85374 602-457-7607

6950 W. Bell Road Glendale, AZ 85308 602-666-7190

11

Your flooring should create the right balance of style and function, to help you execute your vision for the look and design of a room while also offering you peace of mind that you chose the right flooring for your everyday life.

By Stepfanie Romine

No one wants their floor to be a bore, right?

Selecting the right flooring for each room in your home is an important choice. After all, you not only see your floors day in and day out—but you also have to walk on them, too. Your flooring should create the right balance of style and function, to help you execute your vision for the look and design of a room while also offering you peace of mind that you chose the right flooring for your everyday life.

If you’re in the market for a new floor in 2019, consider some of these trends.

1. NEW OPTIONS IN HARD SURFACES

There are so many options to choose from—wood, vinyl, tile, just to name a few—and each has its advantages. In addition to these types of traditional flooring, you’re starting to see a focus on “trompe l’oeil floors,” or trick of the eye flooring that actually looks like other flooring.

For example, luxury vinyl flooring can now realistically mimic the look and textures of real ceramic, stone and wood grain patterns.

Luxury vinyl planking looks remarkably like wood but retains all the ease and value of vinyl. It’s a win-win.

In addition, there are plenty of porcelain and ceramic tiles that also look like wood. This option is perfect for those who love the look of hardwood but don’t want to worry about the performance.

12

With incredible visuals from wood to stone, throwback to trendy, you’re not going to want to overlook the latest and greatest in sheet vinyl flooring.

2. BLEACHED, BLANCHED AND DISTRESSED WOODS

5. AREA RUG

BAKER BROS

Carpet is making a comeback, but this time around, it’s driven more by style and design than just practicality.

flooring ideas that’ll knock your socks off

7. CHEAT SHEET

Forgotten in the luxury vinyl plank craze is sheet vinyl. This is not your grandmother’s linoleum anymore. With incredible visuals from wood to stone, and throwback to trendy, you’re not going to want to overlook the latest and greatest in sheet. Today’s technology offers incredible warranties against rip, tear and gouge damage, too!

8. LARGE (AND SMALL) TILES

When it comes to customization, tile can’t be beat. In addition to creating patterns in the center or perimeter of a room, there are also large tiles to catch the eye.

On the opposite end of the scale, pebble and penny tile (in both solid colors and a contrasting array) remain popular, stylish choices.

A closer look at what’s trending in flooring in 2019

Not only do you get the timeless beauty and pride of ownership of hardwood, your choice of colors and textures is pretty impressive these days. Beyond the usual shades of walnut, pine and oak, wood flooring options come in more options than ever. If you haven’t considered wood floors because you don’t like their traditional glossy, dark appearance, have another look. The beachy whitewashed finishes and shades of gray evoke vibes of seaside cottages and rustic farmhouses.

If you’re torn between the ease of hard surfaces and the comfort of carpet, area rugs offer the perfect compromise. They create coziness and add flair to any room, and if you want to be bold with color and texture, they offer a less than permanent solution as you can easily change them out. Can’t find the size you need? Don’t be boxed in—consider purchasing carpeting and having it custom cut to whatever rug size you need.

3. PATTERNED WOODS

6. PET-FRIENDLY FLOORING

10. WATERPROOF FLOORS

Beyond the color of your wood flooring and the width of the planks, you can also choose patterns to subtly add style to a room.

Chevron, herringbone and checkboard are among the patterns available, and depending on the size and color of your flooring, the patterns can be understated or more daring.

Our furry friends are truly members of the family, and they often drive our flooring choices. When you’re worried about the “3 P’s” (pee, poop and puke), you’re likely looking at performance over style. Cat owners may want to skip carpet that has loops, which can get snagged by claws, and opt for textured, frieze, cut-pile Berbers instead. Families with dogs who track in mud and dirt throughout the day might end up happier with laminates or tile and washable area rugs. And, if your pet sheds, you face a tough choice, whether you go with carpet, wood or tile: Do you pick a flooring that shows the hair or hides it? Stainmaster Pet Protect carpet offers the perfect solution. These carpets have style, color and texture and are warrantied against the 3 P’s.

A big buzzword in flooring is waterproof—but is it actually necessary? Most people don’t really need waterproof flooring, but want ease of maintenance to allow for mopping of the floor. If water is a concern, you’re definitely going to want to avoid carpet and hardwood. But there are plenty of other options to choose: tile (both vinyl and ceramic), as well as luxury vinyl tile and sheet vinyl flooring are all popular choices in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, basements, laundry rooms and mudrooms. These flooring choices offer ease and style—and will hold up to water exposure.

4. BOLDER, MORE INTERESTING CARPET

Carpet is making a comeback, but this time around, it’s driven more by style and design than just practicality. Solid-colored, wall-to-wall neutrals in every room are being replaced by unique patterns, colors and textures. This is especially prevalent in smaller rooms like bedrooms or dens, where you are able to express your style more. Carpet adds warmth and insulation to any room, which is why it remains a top choice for flooring.

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

9. STATEMENT FLOORS IN SMALL SPACES

Areas like foyers, powder rooms and hallways are the perfect place to be creative or splurge on high-end flooring.

Tile mosaics can make quite the statement, as can bright colors or natural stones. While such options might not make sense, design-wise or financially, in a large room, they can create a memorable look in a space that might otherwise be ignored.

For all your flooring needs, visit BakerBros.com.

13

Your flooring should create the right balance of style and function, to help you execute your vision for the look and design of a room while also offering you peace of mind that you chose the right flooring for your everyday life.

By Stepfanie Romine

No one wants their floor to be a bore, right?

Selecting the right flooring for each room in your home is an important choice. After all, you not only see your floors day in and day out—but you also have to walk on them, too. Your flooring should create the right balance of style and function, to help you execute your vision for the look and design of a room while also offering you peace of mind that you chose the right flooring for your everyday life.

If you’re in the market for a new floor in 2019, consider some of these trends.

1. NEW OPTIONS IN HARD SURFACES

There are so many options to choose from—wood, vinyl, tile, just to name a few—and each has its advantages. In addition to these types of traditional flooring, you’re starting to see a focus on “trompe l’oeil floors,” or trick of the eye flooring that actually looks like other flooring.

For example, luxury vinyl flooring can now realistically mimic the look and textures of real ceramic, stone and wood grain patterns.

Luxury vinyl planking looks remarkably like wood but retains all the ease and value of vinyl. It’s a win-win.

In addition, there are plenty of porcelain and ceramic tiles that also look like wood. This option is perfect for those who love the look of hardwood but don’t want to worry about the performance.

12

With incredible visuals from wood to stone, throwback to trendy, you’re not going to want to overlook the latest and greatest in sheet vinyl flooring.

2. BLEACHED, BLANCHED AND DISTRESSED WOODS

5. AREA RUG

BAKER BROS

Carpet is making a comeback, but this time around, it’s driven more by style and design than just practicality.

flooring ideas that’ll knock your socks off

7. CHEAT SHEET

Forgotten in the luxury vinyl plank craze is sheet vinyl. This is not your grandmother’s linoleum anymore. With incredible visuals from wood to stone, and throwback to trendy, you’re not going to want to overlook the latest and greatest in sheet. Today’s technology offers incredible warranties against rip, tear and gouge damage, too!

8. LARGE (AND SMALL) TILES

When it comes to customization, tile can’t be beat. In addition to creating patterns in the center or perimeter of a room, there are also large tiles to catch the eye.

On the opposite end of the scale, pebble and penny tile (in both solid colors and a contrasting array) remain popular, stylish choices.

A closer look at what’s trending in flooring in 2019

Not only do you get the timeless beauty and pride of ownership of hardwood, your choice of colors and textures is pretty impressive these days. Beyond the usual shades of walnut, pine and oak, wood flooring options come in more options than ever. If you haven’t considered wood floors because you don’t like their traditional glossy, dark appearance, have another look. The beachy whitewashed finishes and shades of gray evoke vibes of seaside cottages and rustic farmhouses.

If you’re torn between the ease of hard surfaces and the comfort of carpet, area rugs offer the perfect compromise. They create coziness and add flair to any room, and if you want to be bold with color and texture, they offer a less than permanent solution as you can easily change them out. Can’t find the size you need? Don’t be boxed in—consider purchasing carpeting and having it custom cut to whatever rug size you need.

3. PATTERNED WOODS

6. PET-FRIENDLY FLOORING

10. WATERPROOF FLOORS

Beyond the color of your wood flooring and the width of the planks, you can also choose patterns to subtly add style to a room.

Chevron, herringbone and checkboard are among the patterns available, and depending on the size and color of your flooring, the patterns can be understated or more daring.

Our furry friends are truly members of the family, and they often drive our flooring choices. When you’re worried about the “3 P’s” (pee, poop and puke), you’re likely looking at performance over style. Cat owners may want to skip carpet that has loops, which can get snagged by claws, and opt for textured, frieze, cut-pile Berbers instead. Families with dogs who track in mud and dirt throughout the day might end up happier with laminates or tile and washable area rugs. And, if your pet sheds, you face a tough choice, whether you go with carpet, wood or tile: Do you pick a flooring that shows the hair or hides it? Stainmaster Pet Protect carpet offers the perfect solution. These carpets have style, color and texture and are warrantied against the 3 P’s.

A big buzzword in flooring is waterproof—but is it actually necessary? Most people don’t really need waterproof flooring, but want ease of maintenance to allow for mopping of the floor. If water is a concern, you’re definitely going to want to avoid carpet and hardwood. But there are plenty of other options to choose: tile (both vinyl and ceramic), as well as luxury vinyl tile and sheet vinyl flooring are all popular choices in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, basements, laundry rooms and mudrooms. These flooring choices offer ease and style—and will hold up to water exposure.

4. BOLDER, MORE INTERESTING CARPET

Carpet is making a comeback, but this time around, it’s driven more by style and design than just practicality. Solid-colored, wall-to-wall neutrals in every room are being replaced by unique patterns, colors and textures. This is especially prevalent in smaller rooms like bedrooms or dens, where you are able to express your style more. Carpet adds warmth and insulation to any room, which is why it remains a top choice for flooring.

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

9. STATEMENT FLOORS IN SMALL SPACES

Areas like foyers, powder rooms and hallways are the perfect place to be creative or splurge on high-end flooring.

Tile mosaics can make quite the statement, as can bright colors or natural stones. While such options might not make sense, design-wise or financially, in a large room, they can create a memorable look in a space that might otherwise be ignored.

For all your flooring needs, visit BakerBros.com.

13

Five From drab to fab:

Top 10 must-have accessories for your home

tips to spruce up your home

Need more home inspiration? Here are 10 accessories that will make your home more comfortable, stylish and welcoming:

Simple, creative and affordable decorating tips

1. Footstool Rest your feet, store books and use as an extra seat.

2. Shelves Display photos, your child’s art work and collectables.

3. Bulletin board Pin up homework, chore reminders and business cards.

4. Hooks Hang backpacks, coffee mugs and coats.

5. Umbrella stand Stash sophisticatedly near the front door for a rainy day.

By Meghann Finn Sepulveda

Spring has sprung and now is the perfect time to

freshen up your home with new décor. Not sure where to start?

We spoke with Kirsten Holmstedt, owner and principal interior designer of Treasure in the Detail Interiors, who shared five easy DIY ways to adorn your home.

TIP #1: CREATE A FOCAL WALL

Add colorful wallpaper, printed decals, or painted stripes to any wall to create an eye-catching appearance. Wainscoting, shiplap, or board and batten are also great ways to achieve a very classic and timeless design style.

TIP #2: INCORPORATE DETAILS

Don’t underestimate the impact of what a few details can do to a home. Integrate contrasting light and dark elements and add pops of pattern in textiles like pillows and rugs to unify the space.

14

TIP #4: CHOOSE GOOD LIGHTING

6. Clock Tell time and add a vintage design.

Lighting is an important element to create a cozy ambiance and highlight key areas of the home. Change out small pendants for larger lighting fixtures above a kitchen island. Don’t be afraid to select a light fixture that has unique texture and layers. Mix up finishes that are cohesive with your design style to get a custom look.

7. Wall light Create ambiance and charm.

TIP #3: ADD WINDOW TREATMENTS

TIP #5: SHOP YOUR HOME

Curtains are a great way to control light, add warmth and bring life to any room in the home. For a tranquil effect, incorporate soft, neutral or sheer fabric. If you want to make a bold statement, find a coordinating pattern that works well with existing rugs and pillows. Don’t forget to hang the panels higher than the top of the window and close to the ceiling to give the illusion that the room is larger.

While purchasing new décor is fun, it isn’t always realistic when it comes to your budget. Look around your home and see what you already have before you make an investment. Move a rug from the dining room to the master bedroom or bring a chair from the living room to the guest bedroom. Accent décor and pillows can also easily be swapped out and rotated among different spaces in the home for a fresh, new look.

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

8. Pull-out chopping board Free up space and have an additional surface.

9. Wheels Move furniture easily and introduce an interesting design element.

10. Wicker baskets Organize kitchen, bedroom and bathroom supplies. *Source: Adapted from Houzz.com 15

Five From drab to fab:

Top 10 must-have accessories for your home

tips to spruce up your home

Need more home inspiration? Here are 10 accessories that will make your home more comfortable, stylish and welcoming:

Simple, creative and affordable decorating tips

1. Footstool Rest your feet, store books and use as an extra seat.

2. Shelves Display photos, your child’s art work and collectables.

3. Bulletin board Pin up homework, chore reminders and business cards.

4. Hooks Hang backpacks, coffee mugs and coats.

5. Umbrella stand Stash sophisticatedly near the front door for a rainy day.

By Meghann Finn Sepulveda

Spring has sprung and now is the perfect time to

freshen up your home with new décor. Not sure where to start?

We spoke with Kirsten Holmstedt, owner and principal interior designer of Treasure in the Detail Interiors, who shared five easy DIY ways to adorn your home.

TIP #1: CREATE A FOCAL WALL

Add colorful wallpaper, printed decals, or painted stripes to any wall to create an eye-catching appearance. Wainscoting, shiplap, or board and batten are also great ways to achieve a very classic and timeless design style.

TIP #2: INCORPORATE DETAILS

Don’t underestimate the impact of what a few details can do to a home. Integrate contrasting light and dark elements and add pops of pattern in textiles like pillows and rugs to unify the space.

14

TIP #4: CHOOSE GOOD LIGHTING

6. Clock Tell time and add a vintage design.

Lighting is an important element to create a cozy ambiance and highlight key areas of the home. Change out small pendants for larger lighting fixtures above a kitchen island. Don’t be afraid to select a light fixture that has unique texture and layers. Mix up finishes that are cohesive with your design style to get a custom look.

7. Wall light Create ambiance and charm.

TIP #3: ADD WINDOW TREATMENTS

TIP #5: SHOP YOUR HOME

Curtains are a great way to control light, add warmth and bring life to any room in the home. For a tranquil effect, incorporate soft, neutral or sheer fabric. If you want to make a bold statement, find a coordinating pattern that works well with existing rugs and pillows. Don’t forget to hang the panels higher than the top of the window and close to the ceiling to give the illusion that the room is larger.

While purchasing new décor is fun, it isn’t always realistic when it comes to your budget. Look around your home and see what you already have before you make an investment. Move a rug from the dining room to the master bedroom or bring a chair from the living room to the guest bedroom. Accent décor and pillows can also easily be swapped out and rotated among different spaces in the home for a fresh, new look.

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

8. Pull-out chopping board Free up space and have an additional surface.

9. Wheels Move furniture easily and introduce an interesting design element.

10. Wicker baskets Organize kitchen, bedroom and bathroom supplies. *Source: Adapted from Houzz.com 15

Outdoor Living

By Leigh Farr

The perfect patio pieces for your backyard

getaway will reflect your taste and style, match your budget and most importantly, will stand up to the elements.

So how do you find affordable outdoor furnishings that look fabulous and last through the seasons?

Experts say look for materials known for their outdoor resilience, then add your personal touch.

“With patio furniture, buy a nice quality set that’s going to last and then accent it with your aesthetic and your style such as lanterns, pillows, rugs or an umbrella. That’s where you can make it look like your place and still have furniture that lasts for years,” says Kim Elonich, senior director for Product Development, Outdoor Furniture, at Crosley Furniture.

LASTING BEAUTY

The key to choosing durable outdoor furniture is all in the frame, Elonich says. Much of the metal patio pieces on the market are made of aluminum because it is both lightweight and durable.

“If you want your furniture to last for years, cast aluminum is the best frame material to buy,” Elonich says. “It will withstand rain, sun, wind, heat and won’t rust.”

For a more natural look, a dense, resilient wood such as teak makes a great choice for your backyard oasis.

“Teakwood is the highest quality wood you can find,” Elonich says. “It’s going to last longer, but you need to treat it with a sealer or teak oil. If you take care of teak furniture it can last for years.”

Other strong, durable woods that hold up well over time include cedar, shorea and eucalyptus.

If you’re looking for a heavier frame for your patio pieces, consider choosing wrought iron. It withstands sun and wind and is less likely to rust than steel.

STURDY, YET STYLISH

To cover your metal frame, look for moisture-proof resin wicker or cushions made with weather-resistant fabric.

“Not all performance fabrics are the same,” says Allen Gant III, director of Outdoor Market at Sunbrella. “Traditional dyeing processes only leave color on the surface of fabric so they will fade easily.

Sunbrella fibers are saturated to the core with highly UV-stable pigments, making them resistant to fading and the degrading effects of sunlight.”

Built to last

For your cushions, the gold standard fabric is solution-dyed acrylic designed to keep sun damage, moisture and mildew at bay.

How to invest in outdoor furniture that stands the test of time

Textile talk

Choosing high-performance fabric for your outdoor furniture that can weather sun exposure, heat, wind and rain, is key for seasons of enjoyment. Here’s a breakdown of the most common outdoor fabrics: 16

Solution-dyed acrylic This soft, breathable material resists UV rays, moisture and mildew.

Vinyl fabric This durable, flexible material is fade-resistant, but it tends to heat up in the sun.

Polyester This fabric is strong and durable, but it is prone to fading.

WE’VE EXTENDED OUR BIGGEST DISCOUNT OF THE YEAR

To boost your furniture’s longevity, Gant recommends umbrellas, pergolas or awnings for additional protection. Be sure to add furniture covers to your budget plus a deck box for storing your cushions when they’re not in use.

Cotton canvas While this option isn’t as resistant to sun and moisture exposure as its synthetic counterparts, it can be replaced often because it’s less expensive.

Olefin More affordable than acrylic fabrics, but not as soft, olefin is resistant to both fading and staining.

Offer valid on residential painting projects over $1,000.

Valid on estimates between 8/1/19-9/30/19. Cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion. Financing available on approved credit. PROMO CODE: AZREP

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

17

Outdoor Living

By Leigh Farr

The perfect patio pieces for your backyard

getaway will reflect your taste and style, match your budget and most importantly, will stand up to the elements.

So how do you find affordable outdoor furnishings that look fabulous and last through the seasons?

Experts say look for materials known for their outdoor resilience, then add your personal touch.

“With patio furniture, buy a nice quality set that’s going to last and then accent it with your aesthetic and your style such as lanterns, pillows, rugs or an umbrella. That’s where you can make it look like your place and still have furniture that lasts for years,” says Kim Elonich, senior director for Product Development, Outdoor Furniture, at Crosley Furniture.

LASTING BEAUTY

The key to choosing durable outdoor furniture is all in the frame, Elonich says. Much of the metal patio pieces on the market are made of aluminum because it is both lightweight and durable.

“If you want your furniture to last for years, cast aluminum is the best frame material to buy,” Elonich says. “It will withstand rain, sun, wind, heat and won’t rust.”

For a more natural look, a dense, resilient wood such as teak makes a great choice for your backyard oasis.

“Teakwood is the highest quality wood you can find,” Elonich says. “It’s going to last longer, but you need to treat it with a sealer or teak oil. If you take care of teak furniture it can last for years.”

Other strong, durable woods that hold up well over time include cedar, shorea and eucalyptus.

If you’re looking for a heavier frame for your patio pieces, consider choosing wrought iron. It withstands sun and wind and is less likely to rust than steel.

STURDY, YET STYLISH

To cover your metal frame, look for moisture-proof resin wicker or cushions made with weather-resistant fabric.

“Not all performance fabrics are the same,” says Allen Gant III, director of Outdoor Market at Sunbrella. “Traditional dyeing processes only leave color on the surface of fabric so they will fade easily.

Sunbrella fibers are saturated to the core with highly UV-stable pigments, making them resistant to fading and the degrading effects of sunlight.”

Built to last

For your cushions, the gold standard fabric is solution-dyed acrylic designed to keep sun damage, moisture and mildew at bay.

How to invest in outdoor furniture that stands the test of time

Textile talk

Choosing high-performance fabric for your outdoor furniture that can weather sun exposure, heat, wind and rain, is key for seasons of enjoyment. Here’s a breakdown of the most common outdoor fabrics: 16

Solution-dyed acrylic This soft, breathable material resists UV rays, moisture and mildew.

Vinyl fabric This durable, flexible material is fade-resistant, but it tends to heat up in the sun.

Polyester This fabric is strong and durable, but it is prone to fading.

WE’VE EXTENDED OUR BIGGEST DISCOUNT OF THE YEAR

To boost your furniture’s longevity, Gant recommends umbrellas, pergolas or awnings for additional protection. Be sure to add furniture covers to your budget plus a deck box for storing your cushions when they’re not in use.

Cotton canvas While this option isn’t as resistant to sun and moisture exposure as its synthetic counterparts, it can be replaced often because it’s less expensive.

Olefin More affordable than acrylic fabrics, but not as soft, olefin is resistant to both fading and staining.

Offer valid on residential painting projects over $1,000.

Valid on estimates between 8/1/19-9/30/19. Cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion. Financing available on approved credit. PROMO CODE: AZREP

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

17

Bed & Bath

By Nilay Johnson

When was the last time

you shopped for a mattress? Two years?

Five years? A decade? More? If it’s been a while, you might be shocked at the sheer number of varieties.

These days, mattress types include everything from the traditional innerspring to memory foam, gel, latex, air beds and hybrids of combinations of several materials.

Steel coil spring mattresses have literally been around for more than a 100 years.

German inventor Heiriich Westphal patented the first innerspring mattress in 1871. Ironically, they’re still the most popular, with nearly 1 in 3 households owning one, according to a 2016 survey by Consumer Reports. However, in that same survey, researchers found that 65 percent of consumers regretted purchasing an innerspring mattress with so many other choices available.

LET’S TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT THE DIFFERENT VARIETIES, AND LET YOU CHOOSE

Innerspring mattresses can either have individually wrapped springs or connected.

The key to comfort though is often regarded as the number of springs in the mattress.

That matters because the higher the number of springs the more places your

Springs vs. foam:

Will this decision change your life?

Picking a mattress is more complicated than you think is supported and the mattress contours around you compared to a lower number of springs.

Construction of innerspring mattresses can vary greatly from the materials used for the upholstery and gauge of the wire in the springs.

Airbeds boast that they are highly customizable with the ability to change firmness nightly even.

A pump attached to the mattress adds or allows air to be removed in order to adjust it. Typically there is a top layer of cushioning or foam. Many allow the bed to be adjusted on either half to suit personal preferences. A word of warning, don’t change the firmness in the middle of the night. The pumps can be considered noisy by some, though they are getting better.

PROTECT YOUR HOME & FAMILY WITH KINETICO WATER

Foam mattresses are another popular choice. They can be constructed from a variety of materials like polyurethane, latex, and viscoelastic.

When sleeping on these mattresses the foam can have different layers of support and conforms to the body for comfort.

Eliminate Hard Water and Chlorine

200- 600 OFF

$

Lastly there are combinations of these different types. Some of those include added features like the pillow-top. Like the name sounds it is an extra layer of cushioning that is attached to the top of the mattress. This extra layer of comfort can be made from a variety of materials.

Another common addition is a gel layer.

It adds a cooling comfort. Temperature is often a factor in getting a good night’s sleep and the gel layer helps to keep you cool.

$

A non-electric, on-demand Kinetico hybrid system (softens AND filters).

Limited Time Offer Not valid with any other discount Some restrictions apply.

KINETICO CUSTOMERS ENJOY: • Reduced etching & spotting on dishes • Drinking water throughout the home • Laundry that stays soft & bright • Easier bath & kitchen cleaning • Better tasting food & drinks • Softer skin & hair • No salt options

BENEFITS:

TWO FREE MOVIE TICKETS

There is no one size fits all answer to the perfect mattress puzzle. What’s comfortable to us is subjective as individuals. Well then, where do you start? Sleep experts recommend getting familiar with several types of mattresses by laying on them for at least 15 minutes in your typical sleep position. Then evaluating how your body feels afterwards.

You want to be comfortable so go ahead and take your shoes off. Don’t forget your spouse. This is a decision you’ll want to make together.

With in-home consultation.

Plus FREE water analysis.

Homeowners only; call for details.

Supplies limited.

Sweet dreams!

• Prevents build-up on faucets & shower doors • Saves energy (water-powered, non-electric) • Saves on appliance/plumbing replacement, cleaning products, & drinking water costs • Twin-tanks offer unlimited treated water • Uses less water than traditional softeners • Cuts water heating bill by up to 30% • Reduces soap scum/white film • Removes chlorine & chemicals

BBB A+ Rating

Since 1970

LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED Angie’s List Honor Roll • ROC 097214

By Maricopa Water Processing Systems, Inc., Exclusive Authorized Independent Dealer.

Ask us about trials, rentals, trade-in allowances and interest-free options!

602-910-2933

18

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

417_163421

www.kineticoaz.com

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

Quick Quote Now available by phone or online 19

Bed & Bath

By Nilay Johnson

When was the last time

you shopped for a mattress? Two years?

Five years? A decade? More? If it’s been a while, you might be shocked at the sheer number of varieties.

These days, mattress types include everything from the traditional innerspring to memory foam, gel, latex, air beds and hybrids of combinations of several materials.

Steel coil spring mattresses have literally been around for more than a 100 years.

German inventor Heiriich Westphal patented the first innerspring mattress in 1871. Ironically, they’re still the most popular, with nearly 1 in 3 households owning one, according to a 2016 survey by Consumer Reports. However, in that same survey, researchers found that 65 percent of consumers regretted purchasing an innerspring mattress with so many other choices available.

LET’S TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT THE DIFFERENT VARIETIES, AND LET YOU CHOOSE

Innerspring mattresses can either have individually wrapped springs or connected.

The key to comfort though is often regarded as the number of springs in the mattress.

That matters because the higher the number of springs the more places your

Springs vs. foam:

Will this decision change your life?

Picking a mattress is more complicated than you think is supported and the mattress contours around you compared to a lower number of springs.

Construction of innerspring mattresses can vary greatly from the materials used for the upholstery and gauge of the wire in the springs.

Airbeds boast that they are highly customizable with the ability to change firmness nightly even.

A pump attached to the mattress adds or allows air to be removed in order to adjust it. Typically there is a top layer of cushioning or foam. Many allow the bed to be adjusted on either half to suit personal preferences. A word of warning, don’t change the firmness in the middle of the night. The pumps can be considered noisy by some, though they are getting better.

PROTECT YOUR HOME & FAMILY WITH KINETICO WATER

Foam mattresses are another popular choice. They can be constructed from a variety of materials like polyurethane, latex, and viscoelastic.

When sleeping on these mattresses the foam can have different layers of support and conforms to the body for comfort.

Eliminate Hard Water and Chlorine

200- 600 OFF

$

Lastly there are combinations of these different types. Some of those include added features like the pillow-top. Like the name sounds it is an extra layer of cushioning that is attached to the top of the mattress. This extra layer of comfort can be made from a variety of materials.

Another common addition is a gel layer.

It adds a cooling comfort. Temperature is often a factor in getting a good night’s sleep and the gel layer helps to keep you cool.

$

A non-electric, on-demand Kinetico hybrid system (softens AND filters).

Limited Time Offer Not valid with any other discount Some restrictions apply.

KINETICO CUSTOMERS ENJOY: • Reduced etching & spotting on dishes • Drinking water throughout the home • Laundry that stays soft & bright • Easier bath & kitchen cleaning • Better tasting food & drinks • Softer skin & hair • No salt options

BENEFITS:

TWO FREE MOVIE TICKETS

There is no one size fits all answer to the perfect mattress puzzle. What’s comfortable to us is subjective as individuals. Well then, where do you start? Sleep experts recommend getting familiar with several types of mattresses by laying on them for at least 15 minutes in your typical sleep position. Then evaluating how your body feels afterwards.

You want to be comfortable so go ahead and take your shoes off. Don’t forget your spouse. This is a decision you’ll want to make together.

With in-home consultation.

Plus FREE water analysis.

Homeowners only; call for details.

Supplies limited.

Sweet dreams!

• Prevents build-up on faucets & shower doors • Saves energy (water-powered, non-electric) • Saves on appliance/plumbing replacement, cleaning products, & drinking water costs • Twin-tanks offer unlimited treated water • Uses less water than traditional softeners • Cuts water heating bill by up to 30% • Reduces soap scum/white film • Removes chlorine & chemicals

BBB A+ Rating

Since 1970

LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED Angie’s List Honor Roll • ROC 097214

By Maricopa Water Processing Systems, Inc., Exclusive Authorized Independent Dealer.

Ask us about trials, rentals, trade-in allowances and interest-free options!

602-910-2933

18

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

417_163421

www.kineticoaz.com

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

Quick Quote Now available by phone or online 19

By Brian Sodoma

Kitchen & Entertaining

If you’re wondering

“Hard water affects everything it touches. Just know, if you don’t do anything about it, you’ll pay a lot more for it in the future,” he said.

why that dishwasher or water heater failed after only a few short years, there may be a simple, albeit frustrating, answer. The desert southwest is blessed by outdoor beauty, but its residents also contend with hard water realities.

Here’s a look at some of the “hard” truths about how hard water impacts and Arizonan’s everyday life.

In the same National Water Quality Research Foundation study, soft water used in a variety of laundry machines allowed for less energy expenditure and better stain-fighting activity. The same, or better, stain fighting actions could be achieved with cold 60-degree Fahrenheit water as hot 100-degrees Fahrenheit water, the study found, and less detergent was needed for stain-fighting, too.

PLUMBING PAIN Hard water has higher levels of calcium and magnesium, minerals that build up in plumbing pipes and appliances, shortening lifespan and decreasing efficiency. For a grains-per-gallon (gpg) rating system, a figure above seven is considered hard. Some areas of the valley can see levels in the 20s or higher, says Dave Perry, executive director of the Arizona Water Quality Association.

Perry says older homes with galvanized plumbing pipes can see considerable calcium and magnesium buildup to the point where water can’t penetrate the scale formation inside the pipes. Fortunately, most homes today have PEX or copper piping; buildup inside the pipe is not as severe but it can still be hard on faucets or shower and bath fixtures, shortening their life cycle and producing an unsightly film on them, too.

A CRY FOR HELP Appliances that use or process water work less efficiently with hard water. Dishwashers, water heaters, even coffee makers, can see significant damage from hard water scale formation on their heating components, Perry also noted. This can cause them to work harder, unnecessarily.

“It shortens the life of the appliance and requires more energy to break through that scale formation. It’s really an unseen effect,” Perry said.

In a study conducted by the National Water Quality Research Foundation, instantaneous gas and gas storage water heaters using softened and unsoftened water were studied and a total life-cycle cost savings was calculated. For instantaneous gas heaters servicing 15 gpg hard water, softened water provided a 31.2 percent life-cycle cost savings for a 15-year service life. Softened water provided a 10.3 percent savings for gas storage water heaters as well.

Most tankless water heater manufacturers exclude from their warranties damage caused by adverse conditions including hard water deposits, lime or mineral build-up.

Consumers can be confused by hard water facts, often asking about calcium and magnesium being good for one’s health. It’s a serious misconception, Perry said.

Organic versions of calcium and magnesium are indeed healthy, but minerals found in hard water are inorganic—nothing more than scale debris from salt, Perry explains. They offer no nutritional benefit.

CLOTHES AND YOUR SKIN Hardness minerals (inorganic calcium and magnesium) interfere with the cleaning action of soaps and detergents. As a result, larger amounts of cleaning agents are needed to counteract the hard

“When water of any hardness is softened prior to its use in washing, the detergent use can be reduced by 50 percent,” the study’s authors said.

The hard truth

$ 750

THE SOFT WATER SOLUTION

OFF

Replacing hard water with soft water not only allows you to enjoy increased appliance life and fewer repair bills, but there are other real cost savings.

• Since soft water works harder with less help, soaps and cleaning agents can be reduced up to two-thirds.

• Clothes last longer and look better without mineral deposits embedded in the material.

a Full Bathroom & Kitchen Remodel

• Energy costs go down with soft water flowing through the water heater and plumbing system.

• Bathing and grooming are easier.

• Fixtures and bathrooms stay clean with conditioned water.

“(Hard water) shortens the life of the appliance and requires more energy to break through that scale formation. It’s really an unseen effect.”

TWIN TANK HYBRID Not all water softener systems are created equal. Kinetico offers a dual-tank hybrid unit solution called the Premier Quad Series.

The unit is powered by the kinetic energy of moving water instead of electricity and provides a reliable stream of treated water. The system works on-demand, requiring no adjustment when company comes. In addition to soft water, the hybrid also provides chlorinefree water.

— Dave Perry, Executive Director of the Arizona Water Quality A ssociation

water, and even then, laundry results are not as effective as in soft water. Major appliance manufacturers realize this serious problem and recommend a water softener installation as a practical solution. Water softeners work by producing an ion exchange chemical reaction that draws out the calcium and magnesium from the water, Perry noted.

Hard water can fade laundry and also shorten the life of fabrics by up to 33 percent, adds Mike Mattox, general manager for Kinetico Arizona, which offers advanced water softening and whole-house water filtration solutions.

Hard water leaves behind soap scum when cleaning, but it also leaves that soapy residue in clothing, which builds up on the fibers.

It does the same to the skin, creating dry, itchy skin, Mattox also noted.

The system also cleans and regenerates itself in only 11 minutes and uses soft water to do so. Many electric machines require considerable downtime at night for cleaning and unfortunately use hard water in the cleaning process, exposing the internal components to damaging hardness minerals, Mattox explained.

“Kinetico units are so much more efficient than any other system in the industry,” he added.

When looking for a softener, Mattox also says it’s important to seek out a licensed, reputable contractor. Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) site as well as the state Registrar of Contractors site for complaints. In addition, make sure equipment, in its entirety, is certified by either the state water quality association or National Sanitation Foundation (NSF).

“Most will only certify parts. Make sure the certification is for the entire unit, not just the components,” Mattox noted.

To learn more about the effects of hard water on your home and daily life, visit Kineticoaz.com or call 602-437-2474.

At Re-Bath & Kitchens, all we do are bathroom and kitchen remodels. We design beautiful, functional spaces — and provide quality products. Our teams complete projects in days, not weeks.

Schedule your free in-home consultation today.

LOCATIONS 16879 N 75th Ave, Peoria, AZ 85383 (75th Ave & Bell Rd) 7231 E Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 • 2051 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa, AZ 85202

480-630-4804 REBATHANDKITCHENSPHX.COM Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling • Complete or Partial Updates Aging & Accessibility Solutions AR-GCI0233944-01

20

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

Offer expires 9/30/19

21

By Brian Sodoma

Kitchen & Entertaining

If you’re wondering

“Hard water affects everything it touches. Just know, if you don’t do anything about it, you’ll pay a lot more for it in the future,” he said.

why that dishwasher or water heater failed after only a few short years, there may be a simple, albeit frustrating, answer. The desert southwest is blessed by outdoor beauty, but its residents also contend with hard water realities.

Here’s a look at some of the “hard” truths about how hard water impacts and Arizonan’s everyday life.

In the same National Water Quality Research Foundation study, soft water used in a variety of laundry machines allowed for less energy expenditure and better stain-fighting activity. The same, or better, stain fighting actions could be achieved with cold 60-degree Fahrenheit water as hot 100-degrees Fahrenheit water, the study found, and less detergent was needed for stain-fighting, too.

PLUMBING PAIN Hard water has higher levels of calcium and magnesium, minerals that build up in plumbing pipes and appliances, shortening lifespan and decreasing efficiency. For a grains-per-gallon (gpg) rating system, a figure above seven is considered hard. Some areas of the valley can see levels in the 20s or higher, says Dave Perry, executive director of the Arizona Water Quality Association.

Perry says older homes with galvanized plumbing pipes can see considerable calcium and magnesium buildup to the point where water can’t penetrate the scale formation inside the pipes. Fortunately, most homes today have PEX or copper piping; buildup inside the pipe is not as severe but it can still be hard on faucets or shower and bath fixtures, shortening their life cycle and producing an unsightly film on them, too.

A CRY FOR HELP Appliances that use or process water work less efficiently with hard water. Dishwashers, water heaters, even coffee makers, can see significant damage from hard water scale formation on their heating components, Perry also noted. This can cause them to work harder, unnecessarily.

“It shortens the life of the appliance and requires more energy to break through that scale formation. It’s really an unseen effect,” Perry said.

In a study conducted by the National Water Quality Research Foundation, instantaneous gas and gas storage water heaters using softened and unsoftened water were studied and a total life-cycle cost savings was calculated. For instantaneous gas heaters servicing 15 gpg hard water, softened water provided a 31.2 percent life-cycle cost savings for a 15-year service life. Softened water provided a 10.3 percent savings for gas storage water heaters as well.

Most tankless water heater manufacturers exclude from their warranties damage caused by adverse conditions including hard water deposits, lime or mineral build-up.

Consumers can be confused by hard water facts, often asking about calcium and magnesium being good for one’s health. It’s a serious misconception, Perry said.

Organic versions of calcium and magnesium are indeed healthy, but minerals found in hard water are inorganic—nothing more than scale debris from salt, Perry explains. They offer no nutritional benefit.

CLOTHES AND YOUR SKIN Hardness minerals (inorganic calcium and magnesium) interfere with the cleaning action of soaps and detergents. As a result, larger amounts of cleaning agents are needed to counteract the hard

“When water of any hardness is softened prior to its use in washing, the detergent use can be reduced by 50 percent,” the study’s authors said.

The hard truth

$ 750

THE SOFT WATER SOLUTION

OFF

Replacing hard water with soft water not only allows you to enjoy increased appliance life and fewer repair bills, but there are other real cost savings.

• Since soft water works harder with less help, soaps and cleaning agents can be reduced up to two-thirds.

• Clothes last longer and look better without mineral deposits embedded in the material.

a Full Bathroom & Kitchen Remodel

• Energy costs go down with soft water flowing through the water heater and plumbing system.

• Bathing and grooming are easier.

• Fixtures and bathrooms stay clean with conditioned water.

“(Hard water) shortens the life of the appliance and requires more energy to break through that scale formation. It’s really an unseen effect.”

TWIN TANK HYBRID Not all water softener systems are created equal. Kinetico offers a dual-tank hybrid unit solution called the Premier Quad Series.

The unit is powered by the kinetic energy of moving water instead of electricity and provides a reliable stream of treated water. The system works on-demand, requiring no adjustment when company comes. In addition to soft water, the hybrid also provides chlorinefree water.

— Dave Perry, Executive Director of the Arizona Water Quality A ssociation

water, and even then, laundry results are not as effective as in soft water. Major appliance manufacturers realize this serious problem and recommend a water softener installation as a practical solution. Water softeners work by producing an ion exchange chemical reaction that draws out the calcium and magnesium from the water, Perry noted.

Hard water can fade laundry and also shorten the life of fabrics by up to 33 percent, adds Mike Mattox, general manager for Kinetico Arizona, which offers advanced water softening and whole-house water filtration solutions.

Hard water leaves behind soap scum when cleaning, but it also leaves that soapy residue in clothing, which builds up on the fibers.

It does the same to the skin, creating dry, itchy skin, Mattox also noted.

The system also cleans and regenerates itself in only 11 minutes and uses soft water to do so. Many electric machines require considerable downtime at night for cleaning and unfortunately use hard water in the cleaning process, exposing the internal components to damaging hardness minerals, Mattox explained.

“Kinetico units are so much more efficient than any other system in the industry,” he added.

When looking for a softener, Mattox also says it’s important to seek out a licensed, reputable contractor. Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) site as well as the state Registrar of Contractors site for complaints. In addition, make sure equipment, in its entirety, is certified by either the state water quality association or National Sanitation Foundation (NSF).

“Most will only certify parts. Make sure the certification is for the entire unit, not just the components,” Mattox noted.

To learn more about the effects of hard water on your home and daily life, visit Kineticoaz.com or call 602-437-2474.

At Re-Bath & Kitchens, all we do are bathroom and kitchen remodels. We design beautiful, functional spaces — and provide quality products. Our teams complete projects in days, not weeks.

Schedule your free in-home consultation today.

LOCATIONS 16879 N 75th Ave, Peoria, AZ 85383 (75th Ave & Bell Rd) 7231 E Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 • 2051 S. Dobson Rd., Mesa, AZ 85202

480-630-4804 REBATHANDKITCHENSPHX.COM Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling • Complete or Partial Updates Aging & Accessibility Solutions AR-GCI0233944-01

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Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

Offer expires 9/30/19

21

Kitchen Bites

CLASSIC IRISH STEW

You don’t need the luck of the Irish to prepare this classic and hearty stew. It’s packed full of beef onions, and potatoes and has a rich Guinness enhanced broth you won’t soon forget.

Home is where the soup is

Makes: 8 servings Total time: 90 minutes Ingredients 2 lb. beef meat, cut into 11/2-inch chunks, seasoned with salt and black pepper 4 tbsp. olive oil, divided 2 cups diced onions 2 tbsp. minced fresh garlic 2 tbsp. tomato paste 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup stout beer (such as Guinness) 2 cups low-sodium beef broth 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth 2 sprigs fresh thyme 2 lb. Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed 1 cup chopped carrots 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed 1 cup sliced savoy cabbage Instructions 1. Brown beef in 2 tbsp. oil in a pot over medium-high heat, 8 minutes. Transfer beef and its juices to a bowl; reduce heat to medium.

2. Sweat onions in remaining 2 tbsp. oil in same pot, covered, until soft, 5 minutes.

Stir in garlic and tomato paste; cook until paste darkens, 2 minutes. Add flour and stir to coat; cook 1 minute.

3. Deglaze pot with beer, scraping up any brown bits. Add beef and chicken broths, beef and any accumulated juices, and thyme. Bring stew to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 1 hour.

4. Stir in potatoes and carrots; cook until potatoes are tender, 12 minutes. Add peas and cabbage, season with salt and pepper, and simmer 5 minutes.

5. Stir tomato paste and flour into the sautéed onions. They will help thicken the liquids into a rich sauce.

6. Stir in the cabbage during the last 5 minutes of cooking so it stays slightly crisp and retains some color.

CONFETTI SOUP

This delicious recipe mixes together blackeyed peas, savory smoked turkey ham, fresh vegetables and a secret ingredient, kale, to make up this warm, wonder soup!

Makes: 6 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 40 minutes Ingredients 1 3/4 teaspoons canola oil

ENTER TO WIN A

250 Gift Card $

3/4 cup fresh onions, peeled, diced 3/4 cup fresh celery, diced 3/4 cup fresh carrots, peeled, diced 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon whole fennel seed 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional) 1 1/2 cups canned low-sodium black-eyed peas, drained, rinsed 3 1/2 cups water 1 cup extra-lean turkey ham, diced 1/4” (6 oz) 1/3 cup fresh kale, coarsely chopped 1 1/2 tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped Directions 1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and celery. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender. Add carrots, salt, pepper, fennel seed, and optional crushed red pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

2. Add black-eyed peas and water. Cook uncovered for 25 minutes over medium heat.

3. Add turkey ham and kale. Cook covered for an additional 10 minutes over medium heat until kale is tender.

4. Add parsley right before serving. Serve hot.

ENTER AT AFW.com/HomeSweetHome On October 31, 2019, we will hold a drawing and select one lucky winner to receive a $250 Gift Card from American Furniture Warehouse!

GILBERT, AZ (480) 500-4121

4700 S. Power Rd., Gilbert, AZ 85296

GLENDALE, AZ (602) 422-8800

5801 N. 99th Ave., Glendale, AZ 85305

Classic Irish Stew 22 22

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

23

Kitchen Bites

CLASSIC IRISH STEW

You don’t need the luck of the Irish to prepare this classic and hearty stew. It’s packed full of beef onions, and potatoes and has a rich Guinness enhanced broth you won’t soon forget.

Home is where the soup is

Makes: 8 servings Total time: 90 minutes Ingredients 2 lb. beef meat, cut into 11/2-inch chunks, seasoned with salt and black pepper 4 tbsp. olive oil, divided 2 cups diced onions 2 tbsp. minced fresh garlic 2 tbsp. tomato paste 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup stout beer (such as Guinness) 2 cups low-sodium beef broth 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth 2 sprigs fresh thyme 2 lb. Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed 1 cup chopped carrots 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed 1 cup sliced savoy cabbage Instructions 1. Brown beef in 2 tbsp. oil in a pot over medium-high heat, 8 minutes. Transfer beef and its juices to a bowl; reduce heat to medium.

2. Sweat onions in remaining 2 tbsp. oil in same pot, covered, until soft, 5 minutes.

Stir in garlic and tomato paste; cook until paste darkens, 2 minutes. Add flour and stir to coat; cook 1 minute.

3. Deglaze pot with beer, scraping up any brown bits. Add beef and chicken broths, beef and any accumulated juices, and thyme. Bring stew to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 1 hour.

4. Stir in potatoes and carrots; cook until potatoes are tender, 12 minutes. Add peas and cabbage, season with salt and pepper, and simmer 5 minutes.

5. Stir tomato paste and flour into the sautéed onions. They will help thicken the liquids into a rich sauce.

6. Stir in the cabbage during the last 5 minutes of cooking so it stays slightly crisp and retains some color.

CONFETTI SOUP

This delicious recipe mixes together blackeyed peas, savory smoked turkey ham, fresh vegetables and a secret ingredient, kale, to make up this warm, wonder soup!

Makes: 6 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 40 minutes Ingredients 1 3/4 teaspoons canola oil

ENTER TO WIN A

250 Gift Card $

3/4 cup fresh onions, peeled, diced 3/4 cup fresh celery, diced 3/4 cup fresh carrots, peeled, diced 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon whole fennel seed 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional) 1 1/2 cups canned low-sodium black-eyed peas, drained, rinsed 3 1/2 cups water 1 cup extra-lean turkey ham, diced 1/4” (6 oz) 1/3 cup fresh kale, coarsely chopped 1 1/2 tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped Directions 1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and celery. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender. Add carrots, salt, pepper, fennel seed, and optional crushed red pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

2. Add black-eyed peas and water. Cook uncovered for 25 minutes over medium heat.

3. Add turkey ham and kale. Cook covered for an additional 10 minutes over medium heat until kale is tender.

4. Add parsley right before serving. Serve hot.

ENTER AT AFW.com/HomeSweetHome On October 31, 2019, we will hold a drawing and select one lucky winner to receive a $250 Gift Card from American Furniture Warehouse!

GILBERT, AZ (480) 500-4121

4700 S. Power Rd., Gilbert, AZ 85296

GLENDALE, AZ (602) 422-8800

5801 N. 99th Ave., Glendale, AZ 85305

Classic Irish Stew 22 22

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home

Home Sweet Home | Fall 2019

23

WELCOME

TO THE

Sofa with Accent Pillows

$

NEIGHBORHOOD

338

Accent Chair $268 Bennington Sofa with Accent Pillows $338 (K-5043)

Loveseat $298 | Accent Chair $268 | Cocktail Ottoman $158 | End Table $168 (T500-726) Area Rug $269 (165-R09-81) | Lamp˄ $79 EA. (109-83901)

Bedroom • Children’s Furniture • Dining Room • Electronics • Living Room • Outdoor Furniture • Office/Entertainment

Cambeck Queen Panel Bed $268

(B192-QBED)

Includes Headboard, Footboard and Rails (Mattress and comforter set not included)

King Panel Bed 338 | Dresser 248 | Mirror 68 Nightstand $138 | Chest $199 $

$

$

Bolanburg Dining Table with Storage $348

(D647-25)

Upholstered Side Chair $78 | Upholstered Parson Chair $118 Bolanburg Dining Server $398 | 7-Piece Set as Show $896

We deliver ALMOST ANYWHERE in the UNITED STATES! ^Available In-Store Only | While Supplies Last

AFW.com

24

GLENDALE, AZ (602) 422-8800 101 & Cardinals Way across from State Farm Stadium 5801 N. 99th Ave., Glendale, AZ 85305

GILBERT, AZ (480) 500-4121 202 Santan Freeway & S. Power Rd. 4700 S. Power Rd., Gilbert, AZ 85296

Fall 2019 | Home Sweet Home