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SPRING 2010 | SPACES 5

ith the arrival of spring, there now are many ways that lakes area homeowners can spruce up the look and versatility of their front and back yards. There are many do-it-yourself projects that can be done by even an inexperienced landscaper. Other projects will require the professional eye and hands of professional contractors. Either way, smart landscaping projects can add beauty, personality and value to your home and property. It's been said that it takes just seconds for people to form a first impression of another individual when they initially meet. The same is true for visitors coming up the front walk to your home and looking at a home's yard — front, back and side. A number of area experts say that the time is now to prepare your yard for the coming summer. This is especially true with the warm weather that has been experienced throughout most of March and early April, according to Kevin Golden, owner of Golden Landscaping and Lawn Service in Highland Township.

"One thing that you can do right now is redefine the flower beds and make new edges along there," Golden said. "It's a good time to fertilize your plants, shrubs and trees." Planting trees can have a positive, long-term impact on the look and value of your yard, according to Golden. Factors to consider when selecting a tree include the sun or shade in the planting location, the type of soil, the moisture content of the site, and the tree's ultimate size. It's also important to determine the tree's function in your yard, such as whether it will be used as a windscreen. If you have a lot of dark green leaves in your yard, you may want a tree that gives a blue or yellow, or even red, cast. All landscapes should have a variety of trees for diversity of design and maintenance of tree health. The amount of water your trees and shrubs need depends on several factors, including: plant species, current soil moisture, soil texture (sand, loam, clay), and drainage. The amount of air in the soil is as important as moisture. These must be kept in balance to ensure continued plant health. Shade trees planted near your home can also keep your air conditioning bills lower in the warm weather months, Golden said. Homeowners should consider preening and putting mulch down on those flower beds earlier than average. By waiting until May or June, homeowners likely will have more weeding to do because weeds are already forming in the ground, said Jeff Stulberg, owner of J&S Landscape in Commerce Township. One way to make sure your yard looks attractive to neighbors and potential home buyers if your house is on the market, is to develop a lawn aeration program, according to Stulberg. Aerating is the process of removing small plugs of soil from your lawn to encourage new growth. Lawn aeration allows more oxygen to reach the roots, helps old grasses decompose faster, and makes a lawn more drought-resistant. "It's something that you can do once or twice per year, and it allows the

soil to breathe better, letting it to work needed food and vitamins into the soil," Stulberg said. Aeration can be an effective way to develop a healthy lawn that may be more cost-effective than thatching. Right underneath your grass, but right above the line of the soil, there is a layer of leaves, stems, and roots — some living, and some dead. This tightly woven patchwork is known as thatch, and it's a natural part of your lawn. But when thatch becomes too thick, it can prevent the new, growing grass from finding the water and nutrients it needs. Lawn dethatching can be done manually or with a power dethatcher. Whichever method you use, the action is the same: the dethatching equipment pulls up the thatch and deposits it on top of your lawn. The thatch then should be cleared away to allow the new grass to breathe. Dethatching manually takes some heavy work and patience. Mechanical dethatching is easier, but the equipment can be unwieldy and complicated. Hiring a professional to handle your first dethatching job may be a wise choice. There are a few steps that homeowners should take to improve the likelihood of an effective aeration project. The first is to aerate on a day when temperatures are mild. The soil should be moist, but not wet. Wet soil gets stuck in the aerator and complicates the process. According to Stulberg, lawn aeration for warm-season grasses is best done in the spring. Once aeration has been completed, the soil plugs should be left alone for a few days so that they will break up. The plugs can be crumbled with a rake, lawn mower, or old piece of carpet dragged lightly across your lawn. A landscape professional should be consulted to better understand the impact of soil and grass type and how deeply a lawn should be aerated to achieve optimum results. "It's a good way to get a healthy lawn without spending a fortune and spraying a bunch of chemicals on your lawn," Stulberg said. PAGE 9❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ SPRING 2010 | SPACES 7

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When it comes to spring chores related to landscape plant beds, the application of mulch serves several purposes, said Larry Landy, owner of L&L Landscape in Highland. It helps hold in moisture, reduces weeds, aids in erosion control and keeps the soil cool. Shredded bark or similar mulch products can be used. Some of this mulch will decompose and add nutrients to the soil. Landy said homeowners can apply one to two inches of mulch over the soil, making sure to leave up to three inches of space at the base of landscape plants. Mulch placed too close to the crown can cause crown rot. Replenishing your mulch in the spring can also be effective, according to Golden. In addition, Golden recommends homeowners consider a number of other basic spring yard and landscape cleanup projects, including: • Cleaning out any fire pits; • Preening and trimming bushes and trees; • Preparing your flower and vegetable garden by clearing out waste, mulching, and adding nutrients; and • Trimming branches on shade trees. However, Golden said homeowners should be careful before planting flowers. Generally, the rule of thumb is that they should wait until around Memorial Day, at which time it's unlikely that evening or morning frost will occur. "When you have some warm days in April and early May, it can be tempting to plant some flowers, but it could be a big mistake," Golden said. Some of the spring reminders that homeowners have to consider include gearing up outdoor lawn and garden equipment, such as sharpening the blades on any walk-behind or riding lawnmowers. Landy said there are also a number of larger products that homeowners could consider that offer long-term value and cost-effective options. An attractive and effective way to target water flow on your property is through landscaping with natural stone, slate and rocks. Homeowners can spend anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the type of stone purchased. This type of landscaping can last forever, serves as a natural barrier to weeds. Landscape rocks and aggregates are available in an impressive variety of colors, shapes and sizes. Adding or updating your retaining walls can be another project for homeowners to consider, Golden said. Winter frosts may have damaged or cracked sidewalks, so a new brick paver can be an attractive and effective way to landscape a patio or driveway area. Some of these projects are ones that professional landscape contractors can handle. Landscape professionals can include architects or garden designers who are experts in installing plant materials, irrigation systems, and such hardscape materials as patios, decks, retaining walls, gazebos, and even pools. Property owners depend on the knowledge and expertise of a professional landscape contractor who is skilled in executing an architectural plan for a uniform outdoor appearance that actualizes the view the architect and homeowner have envisioned. The best place to begin in developing your landscaping project is defining your needs. Homeowners should get an idea of what they might want. It can be helpful to look through magazines and websites and collect pictures of what you like. Explain your ideas to your landscape designer, but remember to keep an open mind. A professional may have suggestions that you haven't considered. "We can complete an entire yard plan for homeowners that meets their goals and their budgets," Golden said. "It's really a consultative approach because we will develop a list of priorities now and in the future." PAGE 11❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

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While the landscaping of the front yard gets a lot more attention, it's important for homeowners not to overlook the importance of the yard at the rear of the home. For most families, the backyard is a prime source of entertainment, and a popular venue for barbecues, summer picnics, holiday and family gatherings. Stulberg said the back of a home is just as important as the front, and it's important to provide the landscaping needed there to make this oasis all that it can be. Possible Front Yard Landscaping Ideas • Play up the focal point. From a contrasting door to easy sidewalk access, there should be a direct walk from the driveway to the front door. Appearance is a priority, and by placing progressively smaller plants near the front door, attention can be framed on the entryway. • Foundation plantings help. Pruning and shaping can help revitalize your front yard. The corners of your home can be softened with vertical plants and shrubs. Ornamental grasses can be added as a way to add texture to front gardens. • Create a container garden. With flower pots flanking either side of the front door, the use of various low maintenance annuals can be easily transformed as the seasons change. • Use outdoor garden furniture. Whether it's benches or table and chair sets, the seating doesn't have to remain in the back yard. Mulch or decorative gravel can be added underneath, and an umbrella and plush cushions add a festive look. • Repeat one plant and flower color. Similar colors allow for an easy and elegant front garden. Mulch can be added to the flowers without competing with them. Flowers can also be anchored by a single variety of shrub positioned in groups of two, three or four. • Transition from the drive and walkway. This is a recommended strategy if the driveway is long and straight. By adding curved lines with pocket gardens filled with flowers, an illusion of space can be given while breaking up any monotony. Adding boulders to these areas can tie the house, hardscapes and planting beds together. • Build an island garden in one corner of the yard in a weekend. This is a simple project, done by adding a large mound of black dirt over a layer of newspaper. The newspaper keeps the weeds down, and piling the black dirt on top doesn't require any digging. Add a few shrubs and low maintenance perennials that are suited for the amount of sunshine the area will receive. Cover the dirt with mulch or landscaping rock. Use landscaping bricks or other edging around the perimeter for easy mowing. • Use garden structures. This can be an arbor, trellis, or a tall sculpture that adds a vertical dimension to the front yard. If the plants and flowers are all growing at the same level, adding some height will break up the line and offers a secondary focal point. A garden gate leading to the back yard on one side of the house could be used to balance round-shaped shrubs on the other side. Old wooden architectural pieces with vines growing up as a vertical garden accent are a possibility. • Add outdoor lighting. This is used for security, and also to bring your house and garden to life after dark. You can use solar lights for a quick and easy transformation in your front yard landscaping. Try ideas like shining the solar lights on the paths and walkways, or using up-lights underneath trees for a cool effect. Solar lights are easy to install, with no wires or electrical hookup necessary. ❏ — By Mike Scott

RESOURCES • Jeff Stulberg, J&S Landscape 248.366.7980 • Larry Landy, L&L Landscape 248.318.8566 • Kevin Golden, Golden's Landscaping and Lawn Service 248.889.3339

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SPRING 2010 | SPACES 11

FLOORING TRENDS FROM HARDWOOD AND TILE TO CARPET, TODAY’S OPTIONS ARE ENDLESS

ow's your flooring? Old, worn out, maybe chewed up a bit, with streaks and yellowing taking over? If so, or if you're just a bit tired of the basic flooring you were stuck with in your home, now is a great time to check the market to see what's new, what's trendy, and just what benefits come with different types of flooring. Whether you're looking for a hardwood, tile or carpeted feel, the options are endless, and in today's market, bargains and limited budgets won't necessarily rule out a lot of your options. So let's take a walk through some creative flooring ideas for your home. The Green Alternative In today's flooring world and beyond, working with earth-friendly and recyclable materials nears the top of most priority lists. In the flooring industry, this cause has been taken up, adapted and worked into the market. Larry DeSmith of Exclusive Floor Covering in Highland Township works to keep his customers informed of the many choices out there. "There are many products — carpet, padding, hardwood, vinyl, linoleums — that are all green," he said. "Many people are concerned with the green issue and recycling." Mohawk carpeting's EverStrand is made from recycled plastic bottles and it also offers SmartStrand — a virtually un-stainable fiber that can be easily cleaned with water alone. Hardwood As one of the more elegant choices on the market, rich hardwoods still make a stunning entrance to a kitchen, dining room, hallway or even your living room. Jeff Telesco of Telesco Abbey Carpet and Floor in Sylvan Lake says that hard surfaces are still the big thing in flooring. "Hardwood and hard surfaces like ceramic and stone are, and have been for a long time, the biggest items, and have been growing in today's home," Telesco said. "It's the choice before carpeting." Formerly carpeted stairs are changing over to hardwood, according to Telesco — and with larger pieces of wood. "Wide plank flooring is popular," he said. "Four- to five-inch is the popular width, along with the hand-scraped surface that gives the wood an old-world feel to it." Hardwoods come in all shapes and sizes, colors and tones, and have more environmentally-friendly options available. Chris Hart of D.E. McNabb Flooring in Milford said wood flooring manufacturers have found a way to make it "safer." "There's a few new things that are exciting with wood," Hart said. "They are putting ScotchGuard on wood. In advertising, you may have seen the ad that says 'the ten second rule has been extended.' What they found is that ScotchGuard has silver in it, and silver is an active ingredient that fights bacteria."

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Once you've cleaned your hardwood floors, you can serve meals to your guest and truly "eat off of the floor." Hart says the new technology isn't limited to the wood flooring market. "So now they are mixing it (silver) into all hard surfaces," Hart said. "It's not just in wood. It's in your linoleums, the vinyls, the laminates, hardwood, and everything. That's really exciting. It opens up more creative options for people seeking a hard flooring surface." Hart says the silver is "an anti-microbial that helps fight the germs in your home that make us sick. Crumbs and such that are lost won't mold up as quickly and stink. And it makes the surfaces more of a 'green' option, and it makes the flooring more user-friendly." Hart has also seen more use of bamboo. "A lot of stranded bamboo and darker mocha woods are selling," he said. "It's got a distinct grain to it and people are attracted to it." Carpeting Berber, shag and more are still available, but experts agree that the frieze carpeting, a style of cut pile carpet made from twisted fibers, is the way to go. With individual curling fibers, the carpet creates an informal look that helps hide lots of problems, making it ideal for high traffic areas. "Most carpeting is the frieze," said DeSmith. "The yarn fiber has been taken to the next generation and has tighter twist levels and it wears extremely well. It's definitely low maintenance. People are falling away from Berber these days. Dirt gets trapped below that (Berber) loop and vacuums can't get to the dirt. Berber has fallen by the wayside." SmartStrand, a Mohawk carpeting creation, was put to the test as the flooring surface for a 2,400pound rhinoceros at The Birmingham Zoo in Alabama. After the two-week test, the durable carpeting made from a renewably sourced polymer withstood the rhino challenge, and was cleaned with water. "This material is guaranteed not to stain for the life of the carpeting," DeSmith said. "I have poured bleach, red wine, grape juice and mustard on it, and it washes out with plain water." Telesco backs SmartStrand as well. "It's a synthetic fiber, like nylon, but it is much more stain resistant than nylon. That has been getting a lot of interest in the carpeting arena," he said. "We are a full service dealer, so we carry all of the products." Any carpet showroom will be filled with an array of colors and textures. "There's so much to look at," he said. "People get overwhelmed when they come into a store such as ours. There's just so many beautiful patterns and textures with the soft yarns they are using. They've found a way to almost 'stone wash' a nylon to give it a more cottony or silky feel. They just have a beautiful touch to them." Colors are more colorfast, with virtually no fading, according to Telesco. Although you buy the carpeting first for its look and feel and then its durability, pay close attention to what’s put under your carpeting.

"I prefer to carry virgin foam," DeSmith said. "That's material that's left over from creating mattresses, pillows, and furniture. They take the scrap trimmings and make padding out of it." Padding is also produced from recycled material which then has to be sanitized and sprayed with a flame retardant chemical. DeSmith prefers to stay away from this recycled material due to not knowing how well it was sanitized and not knowing where the recycled material may have come from. Higher end carpet padding may come with a "vapor barrier." "This means if something is spilled onto the carpeting, its not going to soak into the padding," DeSmith said. "So if a carpet doesn't have this and you clean it, the carpet dries from the top, and will keep pulling that stain up from the padding." Tile Technology has helped add more stronger and un-stainable tile options for your home. Another additive to hardwood flooring and other hard surfaces is aluminum oxide. "This is added to the finish on hard surfaces," DeSmith said. "Whether it's a vinyl, linoleum, a tile or even hardwood — it's mixed into the urethane finish. And nothing can stain a urethane surface." DeSmith explained that's the pesky yellowing that occurs with many petroleum-based vinylflooring products. "When you walk around on asphalt surfaces — it's a petroleum based product — and when you walk on your petroleum-based vinyl flooring, it redyes that product with what you've tracked in. Now with the urethane and aluminum oxide that's virtually un-stainable, you don't have that." Now that it's un-stainable due to the urethane, the mix of the two also makes it a harder and more protective finish as well, producing a longer lasting flooring material. "Urethane products weren't used because vinyl was a harder surface," DeSmith explained. "But now that aluminum oxide is added, the urethane product is harder and stronger and has a lifetime wear, stain and fade warranty on it." A laminate, QuickStep, according to DeSmith, "Has a lifetime warranty of 33 years against wear, fade and stain. Most lifetime warranties are only 20 years." Hart explained that laminate floorings are easier to install and longer lasting. "There are laminates that are virtually scratchproof," he said. "You can take a scrub brush to them and push as hard as you want. It's a highgloss finish like your car, and you can’t hurt it." Innovations in installation have made laminate floors less of a hassle to install. "They are more user friendly with less glue," he said. "You don't get the chemicals in the air. They use perimeter staple and then have suction cup technology where it sticks to the sub-floor without the chemicals." Bathrooms are seeing users step away from "cold" materials to use "warmer" ones. "Upgraded vinyls are pretty neat, but ceramic tiles are still being used," said DeSmith. "Dura

ceramics are being used and it looks just like ceramic tile. It's made out of a limestone-based composition and it can be grouted in or it can be laid tight — whatever the customer prefers. And those products have a lifetime wear, fade and stain warranty as well. But they are much nicer and a much warmer floor. Typically a stone floor will pull heat away from the body and is always a cold floor." Telesco has seen an uptick in glass tiles being used. "Porcelain and natural stones are being used, but glass tiles are very big for back splash material and in showers," he said. "The tiles can be colored in so many different ways." "Clients are pulling out their fiberglass tub enclosures and putting in decorative tile and slate in their showers," Telesco said. "There are more patterns and colors to choose from. I could own 25 stores and still not be able to show you everything that’s out there." To help customers visualize their possibilities, Telesco's Web site, www.telescoabbeyfloors.com, they can visualize their home with different flooring products and even change the colors of their walls to fully understand the possibilities. "They can superimpose the image on any room scene," he said. "It's a great tool." Use a Qualified Professional It doesn't matter what type of flooring or how high the quality of flooring choice you make — use a professional who understands the product and how to properly install it. "Product performance is only as good as the installation guarantees," DeSmith said. "You can pick up one of the best products available in the industry, and if it's not installed by a certified craftsman, as far as the consumer is concerned, they'll never buy that product again. So installation must compliment the product." DeSmith, a 43-year veteran, knows how to find an answer to his customer’s questions. "I don't know all the answers to all the questions, but I definitely do research all the products I carry in the store," he said. "I want to make sure if I bring in a product that I wouldn’t mind having it in my own home." Telesco added, "This has been my business for a long time and things are changing constantly and it all looks different to customers. So get to your flooring store and browse through, and get familiar with all the new things that are out there." Hart said, "Even with flooring being more user friendly, if you install it yourself, it can come back to bite you." ❏

— By Mark H. Stowers RESOURCES • Chris Hart, D.E. McNabb Flooring 248.437.8146 • Larry DeSmith, Exclusive Floor Covering 248.889.4350 • Jeff Telesco, Telesco Abbey Carpet and Floor 248.682.5600

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Visit our website: northcromwellpaint.com *Good on any Benjamin Moore® Color Sample. Limit one free Color Sample per household. While supplies last. Offer expires 5/28/10. The Benjamin Moore® colors shown are litho representations only, and do not represent color with 100% accuracy. Color accuracy is ensured only when tinted in quality Benjamin Moore® paints. ©2010 Benjamin Moore & Co. Benjamin Moore and the triangle “M” symbol are registered trademark, licensed to Benjamin Moore & Co.

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Lighting the way

your domicile

Here's how to enjoy your outdoor spaces any time

Jeff LaPorte

hen the sun sets on a summer's night, your backyard space can transform into a wonderland scene that invites you to enjoy your terrace, gardens and pool areas long after darkness falls. All it takes is a fabulous lighting plan. Beyond the functional accent lighting you might have set in your garden beds and along walkways, there's a world of additional lighting effects that can turn your yard into a more beautiful — and more entertaining-ready — space. Achieving the perfectly lit backyard area calls for the trained eye of a lighting specialist, who can assess your space and educate you on the newest technologies and innovations in lighting effects. Tom Kretzschmar, president of a lighting-design company, said that he starts off by assessing what your backyard area looks like when viewed through your windows, looking from the inside out. "I can then plan lighting outdoors to overcome the reflections on the glass that come from your inside lighting, which gives your backyard space more depth for you to enjoy," he said. What's Kretzschmar's secret to planning the best lighting for different areas? Knowing the unique special effects achieved by different kinds of lights. "Mercury vapor light is most complementary to trees, leaves and foliage by casting a blue-green light onto your landscaping elements, bringing out their various textures. Halogen lights are most complementary to the people who are enjoying your backyard scenery," providing a brighter white light, which most often is provided on a dimmer switch, to give that warmer glow that flatters their skin tones, Kretzschmar said. He added that a dimmer switch is one of the most effective tools for flattering lighting in your entertaining areas. Lighting Decks and Seating Areas In addition to dimmer switches, plan for direct brighter light in the cooking areas of your terrace. For a portable grill, Kretzschmar suggests surface or pendant lights. For a stationary cooking area or a bar, direct, brighter light is necessary so that you can see what you're doing — and judge whether meat is cooked to perfection. This would call for ceiling-mounted spotlights or deck-mount lights custom-selected to illuminate your food prep areas. For seating areas, hanging pendant lights are attractive and flattering to those who enjoy your space. David Beaulieu, a landscaping expert for About.com, said, "Candlelight provides overtones of romance and serenity." So main dining tables and end tables are the perfect locations for safe hurricane lamps encasing flickering natural candlelight. Large gourd-shaped chimineas and portable fire pits allow for that "fireplace" effect of burning wood and add to your ambiance with that wonderful smell of real burning logs. Lighting Trees Kretzschmar designs two different types of lighting to show off your trees. "Uplighting," a single or series of two or three small lights set on the ground surrounding the base of the tree, "shows off the shape and form of the tree," he says. When you have a tree of unique shape or coloring, such as a red Japanese maple with a bright red bark, this type of lighting provides a wonderful focal point, preventing each gorgeous tree from disappearing into the darkness. Up-lighting, then, is for decoration, increasing the value of your landscaping dollar when your most beautiful trees come alive at night. "Down-lighting out of the tree provides interesting shadows and provides the added benefit of extra security," Kretzschmar said. Beaulieu says using shepherd's hooks — found at the garden supply store — is an easy way to hang safely ensconced candles in your trees for added effect. Lighting Water Features Pools, ponds and spas might have their own underwater lighting systems already, providing a pretty glow at night. But if you're creating a new plan to light your water features, Kretzschmar advises using expertly placed spotlights — mounted on various structures aboveground — around your water accents for a better effect that's easier to maintain. ❏ — Creators News Service

BUYER BEWARE: A GUIDE TO COMMON DEFECTS

s the buying season heats up I thought I would list 10 common home defects that prospective home buyers should pay attention to, to preserve the integrity of the systems that make up most homes. 1. Poor drainage. Improper grading around the home can lead to water intrusion in basements and crawlspaces which can compromise foundations and create conditions conducive to mold growth. 2. Failing or aging heating and cooling systems. Older heating and cooling systems require maintenance and may be energy inefficient. There is also the risk that they can emit dangerous carbon monoxide fumes that are harmful to the gamily. 3. Environmental hazards. Older homes may contain lead based paint, high levels of radon gas, toxic molds or even asbestos. Proper testing or monitoring should be performed to ensure the safety of the occupants. 4. Inadequate ventilation. Without proper attic ventilation, moisture does not evaporate and inevitably will cause problems in the future. Proper attic ventilation will increase the life of the roof covering because it allows the intense heat to escape from the attic area and promotes evaporation of moisture that may cause damage to interior walls and structural elements. 5. Improper maintenance of appliances. Simple actions like cleaning out the lint trap in the clothes dryer replacing air filters in the HVAC system and range hoods can extend the life of the equipment. 6. Plumbing problems. The pipes under your sink can me made of incompatible materials that lead to dripping faucets, leaking fixtures and slow drains. One inexpensive repair can often time eliminate a costlier repair in the future. 7. Roof problems. The roof of your home may contain old or damage shingles or improper flashing. Maintaining a roof covering system is one of the most significant things you can do to prevent long term damage to your home. 8. Controlling water. Water intrusion can be one of the most destructive elements to a home. Well maintained gutters and downspouts along with proper grading to direct water away from the home will go a long way to preserve a health home. 9. Electrical safety issues. A home with an out-of-date or insufficient electrical system can lead to fires and electric shock or nuisance breaker tripping. Examples of other electrical hazards are ungrounded outlets, lack of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI), aluminum wiring, Knob and Tube wiring, faulty wiring conditions in the main electrical panel or elsewhere in the home. These are potentially hazardous defects and should not be taken lightly. 10. Rotted wood. Wood placed around frequently wet areas can begin to rot. Wood around bathtubs, showers and toilets are especially vulnerable to moisture and should be properly sealed. The exterior of the home, including trim, eaves, fascia and decks should be checked regularly. For buyers looking to beat the tax credit deadline having a home inspection is vital. If the inspection reveals issues, buyers can request that the sellers make repairs before closing or they can walk away from the deal completely in favor of a better maintained property. A home is one of the biggest investments a person will ever make and a quality home inspection is essential to help protect everyone’s interest. Jeff LaPorte is certified by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) with over 10 years experience and is the owner of “The Home Team Inspection Service.” He can be contacted via e-mail at jlaporte720@comcast.net. SUMMER 2009 | SPACES 17

n today's environment of foreclosures and short sales that are working to drive down residential property values, anyone who is able to stay in their home will likely opt to stay out of the real estate market. For those choosing to dig in, there are a number of ways to update their home so that its value is protected or enhanced. Energy efficiency continues to be an important consideration for homeowners. In 2010, the incentive to update your home is even greater with a $1,500 federal tax credit available to homeowners. This tax credit covers 30 percent of your costs, up to $1,500, and is available only on an existing principal residence. New construction and rentals don't qualify. There are other incentives, as well, to remodeling your home this year. For one, labor prices are down by an average of 30 percent or more, according to John Newmyer, owner of Newmyer Distinctive Remodeling in Commerce Township. That means most homeowners can have projects completed for PAGE 19 significantly less money than they would have a few years ago.

"You are purchasing the service at a lower price because (contractors) recognize that they have to put food on their table," he said. "I think we realize that whether you're a supplier or a client, we're all dealing with this (challenging) economy together." Certainly many homeowners can get a good gauge of how efficient their home is and when to undertake a home remodeling project. The first thing they should do is see what their options are and how much money they could save by making smart buying decisions. "One strategy you can take is to conduct an energy audit to see where air is leaking out of and into," said Laurie Frankel, co-owner of The Frankel Organization, a West Bloomfield home design, building, and consulting firm. This advice can be particularly valuable down the line because it's a benefit that any prospective home buyer will be interested in, and doesn't relate to personal taste, according to Frankel. Having sufficient and high-quality insulation, adding energy-efficient windows, and caulking in proper areas are just some examples of home improvements that should be considered. Energy-efficient appliances are also eligible for the 2010 tax credit, which expires Dec. 31, 2010. It is expected that other tax credits will be available in future years. "When you can document that you have lower energy bills, and you can point out new insulation or windows, that's a feature that can really help your home to stand out now and in the future," Frankel said. "An energy-efficient home has a tremendous amount of value." Even a new roof can be an energy-efficient investment that can save as much as 15 to 20 percent on your heating and central air costs, said Vince Pipitone, owner of Pro Built in Commerce Township. Such shingles are rated by the federal government to be more effective at keeping the air you want in and the air you don't want out of your home. While these shingles cost more, they can offer a good long-term financial payback. They also qualify for the 2010 energy tax credit. "When it comes to roofs, preventative maintenance is the key," Pipitone said. "Once you get into a situation where you have a leak, you may have to pay hundreds of dollars or more to fix the drywall, and then you just have another expense on top of the roof." Pipitone added that a poor roof could also lead to a wide range of other costs. Since shingles are made with adhesive strips, the best time to install a new roof is between mid-April and mid- to late-October, he said. That allows professionals to ensure that the job is completed with the best possible workmanship. The roof also comprises a large percentage of your home's curb appeal, Pipitone said. That goes a long way toward attracting homebuyers when you do decide to put your home on the market. A roof is also a major expense that homebuyers will prefer to have updated, so they don’t have to worry about it for a decade or more. "The roof really makes up as much as 40 percent of your curb appeal," Pipitone said. Another important curb appeal factor is new siding. A house that looks run-down and worn out, with faded siding, peeling paint, or crumbling brick,

looks grim and uninviting. A home that looks freshly painted, with seamless, smooth siding, turns heads. New siding is an advantage to both the buyer and seller when a home is, or will soon be, on the market, Pipitone said. If you can't get people inside because the outside leaves much to be desired, your home may be a hard sell. Installing new siding will make your house shine to anyone passing by. There are many measurable benefits to new siding as well. It's the first defense against the elements. A high-quality siding does more by ensuring your home is well protected against unwanted insects that can cause interior damage to a home. As with most home improvement projects these days, there is a strong energy-efficient element to siding. Siding should insulate the home to some extent, and protect the insulation that lies within the walls. Air tight siding should help in maintaining the inside temperature of a home. It should not allow air or moisture to get through to ruin the insulation, or cause you to turn the heat up in the winter and turn down the temperature of the air conditioner in the hot summer months. "You can change the color a bit, and change the whole look of your house in case you do want a fresh look," Pipitone said. "You do want to make a decision that allows you to recover a large percentage of your investment, and there may be some subtle design steps that can be implemented, as well." It has been said before, but other areas where home improvements can result in extra values are kitchens and bathrooms, Frankel said. In this real estate market, and moving forward, prospective buyers will be looking for high-quality items and materials in these critical rooms. It represents another example of how your home can be differentiated from what is in the marketplace. Homeowners should know that they likely will not receive a 100 percent on their home improvement investments, even in kitchens and bathrooms, according to Frankel. That is why more homeowners today are considering such improvements less as financial investments, and more as personal lifestyle investments. The distinction between lifestyle and financial home improvements offers a good way to think about which projects are right for you and your home, she said. It is not always the case that lifestyle improvements can be considered a poor "investment," while financial ones can be considered good. Those homeowners who really want to make a change to their house might still determine that the change is worth completing, even if the return isn’t as good as other projects. "Many families realize that they want a nice kitchen because that is where they are going to be spending a large percentage of their time in a house," Frankel said. "It's a common gathering place whether you have young children or older kids who come back from college or from elsewhere to visit." Newmyer agrees that kitchen and bathroom remodeling can offer better payback. Traditionally, homeowners can receive up to 100 percent back on their bathroom and/or kitchen remodeling project if they remain in their home for at least five years, he said. While the housing market and high unemployment rates may have scared off some homeowners into making such investments in their home in recent years, there is pent-up demand.

"Typically remodeling is a leading indicator of a (recovering economy)," Newmyer said. "What we are seeing is that there is more remodeling being done in the mid-price range. Our customers, no matter what (income bracket) they are in, are looking at purchasing good quality items and services, kind of like a (Chevrolet) Malibu instead of buying the Cadillac." The purchasing of the "Malibu" option for bathrooms has meant adding handheld sprays and European glass doors as part of a remodeling project instead of more upscale features like towel bar warmers, Newmyer said. While granite is still in high demand, more homeowners are selecting less expensive types of granite for their countertops than in the past. "You have a situation where homeowners want aesthetics that are nice and clean and something with more of a transitional feel," Newmyer said. "The trend is that the look is something between traditional and contemporary." Yet remodeling your kitchen and bathroom doesn’t mean you have to add a significant amount of "personality" in order to derive value. Homeowners can still use neutral colors and base tones to give their home an efficient and practical, yet attractive, look, Frankel said. Granite counter tops in kitchens and bathrooms retain their look, feel, and cleanliness. High-quality molding can be a nice added feature for homeowners to consider, and hardwood floors in kitchens and new tiling in bathrooms can add a modern look without sacrificing practicality. Cabinetry is often one of the more expensive home repair and remodeling projects, but it can also add tremendous value and quality to the look of a home. Gittleman Construction in Farmington Hills has offered a wide array of cabinet products, from Medallion to Penville Custom Cabinetry as a way to spruce up the look of a home. New kitchen and bathroom cabinets have many values. Gittleman Construction can help develop the character of older homes by working with clients to select kitchen and bathroom cabinets that match the age and flavor of the house, according to Vice President Vera Asmar. Glass panels can be added to your new cabinets to give a kitchen or bathroom an open and inviting air. Microwave drawers being added to kitchens may be one of the most noticeable trends that homeowners are adding, Frankel said. "I'm not sure that we have done a kitchen in the last six months where we haven't added a microwave drawer to offer more space to that room," she said. "It's the new, hot thing." ❏

— By Mike Scott RESOURCES • John Newmyer or Jennifer Mangin, Newmyer Distinctive Remodeling 248.669.3500 • Vera Asmar, Gittleman Construction 248.538.5400 • Vince Pipitone, Pro Built 248.669.9007 • Laurie Frankel, Frankel Organization 248.626.3150 SPRING 2010 | SPACES 19

Accurate Answer Man… Do you have questions about kitchen and bath remodeling projects? Rik Kowall has been a licensed remodeling contractor for over 30 years. Please forward all questions to accuratewoodworking@yahoo.com

Question: My husband & I are

considering stone for our bathroom countertop, what are the pros and cons versus solid surface products?

Answer: Stone is stone, a product of

nature and is not maintenance-free as people believe. Reasonable care must be taken to protect it from harsh chemicals bleach, hair dye or citric acid products. Solid surface can be molded at the joints, sinks can be molded in versus the “toothpaste” lip around stone sinks and is maintenance-friendly. Solid surfaces come in a wide range of colors and finishes, stone has a broader range. Each offers something to the individual’s taste.

Accurate Woodworking has the personalized design, quality and service the big chains can’t match! We specialize in kitchen and bath cabinetry, bars, bookcases, fireplace surrounds and entertainment centers. Our manufactured cabinet lines include Pioneer, StarMark and Saco Industries. Let us top off your kitchen or bath with a laminate or solid surface countertop. Feel free to stop by to see our displays, door styles and color samples, or visit our website www.accuratewoodworking.com. We are located on M-59 just East of Williams Lake Road. Accurate Woodworking will help you design the kitchen and define your dream. Take advantage of our current promotions by calling 248-666-3755. We look forward to working with you on your future projects.

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The right placement for plants Experts say it's all about location, location, location

ou've been eying at that empty corner in the backyard all winter for a tree, some shrubs and a sweep of blooms. Choosing what plants to get and when and where to plant them can be a challenge, horticulture experts say ... if you don't plan ahead. "The most common mistake people make is buying on impulse," said Nicholas Staddon, director of new plants for a supplier of plants to more

Marigolds are one of many companion plants that deter pests from damaging other plants in your garden.

than 5,000 garden centers across North America. Not accounting for how large a plant will grow, when it will bloom and the best way to handle it before it goes into the ground can make the difference between planting success and failure, he said. Staddon recommends doing as much research as you can before shopping for that oh-so-perfect plant to ensure you choose one that works well in the location you have in mind, the type of soil you have and your climate. "The Web is a great way to get information," Staddon said, as are books, botanical gardens and local experts. And, he adds, factor in your own lifestyle. If you want to really enjoy what you've planted, pick plants, trees and shrubs that blossom or produce unique foliage when you are going to be in the garden. Alissa Hartman and Dreya Mancini — partners in a company that creates, installs and maintains sustainable gardens — integrate edibles into their designs, a natural way to help control pests that are otherwise the bane of gardeners. Marigolds keep aphids from attacking broccoli, cauliflower and

Fertilizer, mulch provide better conditions pring is a good time to make sure Sproper your lawn and plants contain the nutrients to thrive through the hot summer months. LawnCare.net recommends not fertilizing in the early spring. Fertilizing too soon could promote top growth and weaken the root system, which may not be able to handle the hot and dry summer weather. When it comes to fertilizing your lawn, the amount of fertilizer depends on the type of grass and the region's conditions. Although each grass species may need a different fertilizing schedule, the necessary amount is "1 pound of actual nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per application," according to Jeff Rugg, a horticulture educator and writer of the syndicated column "A Greener View." By providing the needed nutrients, fertilizer acts as a tool to sustain plant health, according to Scott Aker, the gardens unit leader at the U.S. National Arboretum, in Washington, D.C. Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are fertilizer's main components. A soil test can help determine whether there are insufficient amounts of these three elements. Rugg suggests calling a soil testing company for an examination. The type of fertilizer depends on what plant needs to be treated. Both liquid and dry fertilizers can supply fast or controlled releases of nutrients. Chemical fertilizers provide fast releases of balanced levels of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, whereas organic fertilizers usually put the nutrients into the soil at slower rates. Be careful not to overuse chemical collard greens, and easy-to-grow nasturtiums fend off rabbits and rodents. Even better, nasturtiums are edible, Hartman points out. Another combination that is beneficial is planting onions next to strawberries; the sulfur that onions add to the soil can sweeten the fruit, she says.

fertilizers on your lawn; the chemicals can cause groundwater pollution, and their high salt levels can burn the grass, according to LawnCare.net. Some organic types contain lower amounts of nitrogen, so if you use them, you need more fertilizer to spread across the lawn. Although organic fertilizer works at a slower pace, Aker says it could offer a more balanced nutrient release over a longer time period. "The best type (of fertilizer) feeds the lawn without feeding anything else by washing into ponds and streams," Rugg said. Mulch protects the soil and roots, while fertilizer's job is to provide nutrients for plants. Mulch stops weed development and aids in preserving soil moisture and maintaining moderate soil temperatures. And Aker says that mulch "serves an aesthetic function by eliminating the splash of dirt onto plants and giving beds a neat, finished appearance." There are organic and inorganic mulch products. Rugg recommends organic mulch for most plants; it delays putting nutrients back into the soil, similar to a slow-release fertilizer. Inorganic mulch contains gravel or shredded rubber material. "Mulch is a bunch of material sitting on the soil surface that insulates the surface from quickly freezing and thawing," Rugg says. "And it helps prevent the soil underneath from drying out too fast." Only use fertilizer if you know it is needed in your yard. Mulch that's deeper than 2 inches will damage plants, as well, according to Aker. Usually, warmer and wetter weather means a greater loss of nutrients; rain may filter out nutrients, and hot soil temperatures can reduce nutrients through volatilization. ❏ — Creators News Service Having a plan is a must, whether you draw one up yourself or use a professional, Mancini adds. Photos from magazines and advice from gardening books available at your local library and from experts at county extension services and local universities can help you develop your planting

scheme. When you shop, avoid becoming what Hartman terms "a nursery junkie," picking plants that don't go together. "Buy three or four of the same kind that will work together," she said. Be careful, too, of buying plants that in some areas have the potential to become highly invasive and hard to eradicate, horticulture experts warn. On its website, The United States National Arboretum provides a stateby-state list of invasive and noxious plants, including such common ground covers as periwinkle and English ivy. Mark Hawry, a certified arborist, offers these tips for people hunting for plants: • Foliage: Leaves should be green and lush. Wilting or yellow foliage may be a sign of plant stress. • Shape: Plants that are compact with multiple stems may be better than those that are bigger and taller. • Insects and disease: Avoid plants with leaves that show leaf spot, mushy areas, blackened holes, chewed edges or general distortions. • Root system: Lift up the plant and check the holes in the bottom of the nursery pot. The plant may be potbound if there are excessive roots growing out of the bottom. If there are no roots showing, it may be immature, needing more time to grow before you take it home for your garden. If you're looking at a larger balled-and-burlapped plant, make sure the root ball is solid, without loose soil. • Stem damage: If the plant has a woody stem, there shouldn't be any cracks or scars. • Buds and flowers: Plants with flower buds will transplant better than plants in full bloom. Pay attention to sun and shade, especially if you want a colorful planting area, says Bill Calkins, independent garden center manager for a worldwide breeder, producer and wholesale distributor of ornamental plants, including the Burpee Home Gardens brand. "Picking the correct plant to go in sun or shade is important. Sun-loving plants won't grow in shade, and shade lovers won't flower in full sun." ❏ — Creators News Service SPRING 2010 | SPACES 21

Do it right with the right tools Buy according to the task at hand, not based on price

uying yard tools sounds simple enough. It isn't. How much you know about what you need, what you should pay for what you get, how to use what you get and how to maintain that new mower, hose, shovel, rake or trowel depends on how much time you're willing to spend educating yourself about the myriad products on the shelf that are designed to keep your property wellgroomed.

A hand trowel is among the basic tools needed by the home gardener. This ergonomic version is designed to ease hand and wrist pressure.

"The Internet is a great source," said garden tool industry veteran Jeff Koenig, marketing manager for one of the oldest manufacturers of nonpowered lawn and garden tools in North America. "The biggest mistake people make is not educating themselves and buying by price, not the task at hand. You get what you pay for." A garden buff himself, he knows by experience that for most people, "a beautiful lawn or landscape doesn't happen by snapping your fingers." Buy the right tool for the job "and you'll be proud of the end result." What should be on your must-have list? Here are the basics: • Round point shovel: You'll be using this more than you anticipate, so don't scrimp on price. Look for one with a virgin steel blade for flexibility

Worms can be a beneficial hobby for gardeners orms. They've been wiggling on earth for about 120 million W years. Cleopatra pronounced them sacred. Charles Darwin studied them for decades. The Chinese have used them in medicines for centuries. And it's been about 2,000 years since Roman statesman Marcus Porcius Cato documented the technique of vermicomposting, or vermiposting, the homespun science in which worms convert food scraps into rich compost via their waste. Today vermicomposting is practiced on a large scale around the world, with the byproducts — worm castings — used commercially as pesticide and fertilizer. Composting with worms also has come into favor on a smaller scale, in homes. It's ideal for apartment and condo dwellers with little space. But vermicomposting kitchen waste can be for anyone; it's neat, easy, odorless, inexpensive and green. "It makes you look at garbage in a new way," says Alice Beetz, agriculture specialist with The National Center for Appropriate Technology. Getting started is simple: Build or buy a worm bin to house the worms. A suitable wooden bin with a lid (worms do their best work in the dark) can be constructed easily. Two inexpensive eight- to 10-gallon plastic storage boxes with lids also work well. Fill the bin with damp, fluffy bedding material, such as shredded newspaper or peat moss, and add a pound of red wiggler worms, available at most large nurseries and garden supply stores. You want red wigglers (also known by some as bloodworms, red worms, brandlings, and a D-shaped handle. You'll have more leverage when you dig and a better angle. Cheap shovels are made of recycled steel and have straight

22 SPACES | SCN COMMUNICATIONS GROUP

tiger worms and manure worms). Garden-variety earthworms will not do. Let the worms acclimate for a couple of days. Then, for their first meal, bury a small portion of kitchen scraps in the bedding on one side of the bin. Check it daily. When the scraps are gone, add a larger portion, and repeat the process. Once established, a pound of worms will consume about 4 pounds of kitchen waste a week. Scraps can be greens, carrots, lettuce, broccoli, sweet potatoes, pieces of fruit (they love cantaloupe), coffee grounds and eggshells (Eggshells are a necessary part of their diet). Avoid meats, dairy products and citrus. Red wigglers are hearty eaters, consuming almost their weight in kitchen scraps every day. They'll multiply, too, and before long you may want to thin the herd. This can be accomplished by indoctrinating neighbors and your extended family in the virtues of vermicomposting. The compost, known as worm castings, should be harvested in a month or two, when they are dark brown and there are no recognizable food scraps. The way the castings are harvested depends on the type of worm bin being used, and the Internet offers numerous sites with simple instructions for building and setting up worm bins, as well as for feeding the worms and harvesting the castings. Many also provide stepby-step illustrations. Do an Internet search for "how to vermicompost," or call your county's Extension office to request literature on vermicomposting. The rewards for tending a worm farm are great. Researchers say worm castings provide anti-disease properties for plant roots and foliage and pest resistance against whiteflies and aphids. ❏ — Creators News Service blades, which can be awkward to use. • Garden spade: These come in a variety of styles, from ones with straight edges to ones that are fork-

shaped. The latter type is useful to break up compacted soil, according to the National Gardening Association. Versions with five tines are best to move mulch or break up straw. A spade with a straight edge can make easy work of edging flower beds and digging trenches. • Hand trowel and rake set: You can buy these separately, but often they're sold as a matching set, one to dig and the other to scratch and remove weeds and loosen the soil to plant bulbs. • Pruner: You'll need a hand pruner to snip small branches and flower stems and pruning shears to lop off thicker shrub and tree branches. Test different ones before you buy. Weight, shape, safety locks and even the size of your hand can determine whether the pruner will be comfortable to use without fatigue setting in. • Long-handled hoe: Like garden spades, garden hoes come in several shapes and sizes, the most common being a flat- and square-bladed goosenecked tool that can help you loosen and rid your garden of weeds and create rows to plant seeds. • Long-handled rake: Think more than one when it comes to longhandled garden rakes. There's the traditional flat-edged rugged steel version, which can break up clumps of soil and make smooth work of garden beds. The leaf rake, which is lighter and has many tines, will make quick work of gathering all those leaves that you missed last fall. Some ergonomic versions allow you to adjust the rake head to a comfortable level. On others, you can adjust the tine tension, making it easier to rake light, dry leaves and heavy, wet ones. • Hose: Choose a thick wall hose. They tend to be more kink-resistant and provide longer service. A higherquality hose also generally has a higher psi (pounds per square inch) rating and larger brass couplings for easy handling and a secure fit on spigots. "Always clean your tools after use," Koenig advises. Hosing them off is the easiest way. Spraying steel parts with a protective coating of WD-40 also will keep garden tools in good shape. ❏ — Creators News Service

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