2018 spring home & garden

2018 SPRING HOME, GARDEN & CAR CARE

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and CAR CARE

SOIL The dirt on your

How to make your garden grow, better

CLEANING WITH VINEGAR

HOME TRENDS FOR 2018

Roses are making a comeback, and hydrangeas are all the rage.

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Rhododendrons are a popular

GARDENING

trends

By Linda Cobb

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f you are a gardener, your excitement begins to build as the days get closer to spring. We recently had an usually warm winter day, and I took a walk in the garden. The air was right, and even the soil looked warm and friendly.

But common sense tells me that we have more of winter to come.

Every year when I get to February, I have to control myself because I can’t wait until spring. If there are spring garden symposiums, I attend every one. I also go to all the home shows to see if I can find a new plant that will get me excited.

I get out my old journals and try

choice, as are landscape pines.

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From hydrangea mania to unique plants

to imagine when things will bloom. I have a list of things to do and when to do them to get ready for spring.

But for now, I want to talk about this year’s garden trends, so that you can make plans for your garden.

Rhododendrons and roses are making a comeback, and I am happy about that.

Landscape pines also are stylish and are being used in creative ways.

The potted ones are fuss-free plants and evergreen.

We also are seeing hydrangea mania this year because there are so many new varieties. Research them and add a few varieties to your garden. I have always believed that no garden should be without at least four different types of hydrangea.

Growers are making them with stronger stems and larger flower heads. I would suggest putting two of them in very large pots.

When it comes to plant hunting, refine your garden by adding unique plants that you love. Make it your own. Go to great lengths to create that special place in your garden. It will give your garden new life and you will be proud of it.

This is also the year of “show me how.” There are so many classes being held on how to do almost anything from laying your own patio to installing your own sprinkler system.

Learn how to do some of these things for yourself. You will be glad that you did.

Finally, find your own garden tribe.

There are many groups to join with people who like what you like. Or you can get a group together and go garden hopping. Not only will you see new things, but you will learn so much about gardening from other people.

Linda Cobb is a master gardener who lectures, teaches, and does garden design in South Carolina. She can be reached at 864574-8493 or email her at lindacobb@charter. net. Visit her website at www.mygardenersguide.com.

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The basics of cleaning with vinegar

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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hether you’re buying a new home or looking to freshen up your own, knowing the latest building and decor trends will keep you in style.

• Move over, man caves: Women are getting a room of one’s own, said Realtor Marie Presti, owner of The Presti Group in Newton, Massachusetts. Called she rooms, babe caves, she shacks or she sheds if they’re located in the garden area, these rooms offer a getaway space for busy women juggling home, work and family.

“It can be a place to hide out, especially since open floor plans in homes are so popular,” said Presti, president of the Greater Boston Association of Realtors and 2017 Greater Boston Realtor of the Year.

Having a home office will never go out of style, and that’s just what many buyers are asking for — except instead of focusing on a desk and cabinets, women are transforming these spaces with window seats and decorative pillows, Presti said.

The extra room in the house or the converted garage now becomes a music or relaxation room, upscale closet, yoga studio, or just a place to hang out with a glass of wine and book club friends — and there’s still

space to curl up with a laptop and get work done.

• In the bathroom, the whirlpool bath is being replaced by a highend shower, Presti said. These spa showers are generally bigger, with benches, inset shelving and multiple shower heads like a rain head, body jets and a handheld jet.

“Close the door and it becomes a steam room, and there’s no drain set in the middle. Instead, the floor angles so water runs off to a drain hidden underneath,” Presti said.

• Home bars are once again popular, both as a family focal point and for entertaining guests, Presti said. A great way to use up some extra space, home bars are outfitted to suit the family’s drinking habits, whether that means a built-in keg, wine refrigerator, espresso bar or a cool place to store juice, water and soda.

• Accessory apartments are also becoming increasingly popular as the country deals with an intense demand for housing, according to the National Association of Home Builders. Called in-law or granny suites, accessory apartments can be separate dwellings on a home’s property or converted basements or garages. Theses self-contained living units are ideal for “downsizers” or empty-nesters, college students and other young adults, Presti said.

Praying for blessings for you and your families.

It’s also a great way to make a little extra money renting space to a family member.

• Mixed metals are on trend for 2018, so you’ll be seeing silver and gold complimenting each other along with other metallics like rose gold, copper and brass, Presti said.

• While grays are still popular and being used, “they’re moving down” and instead the emphasis is trending toward warm neutrals like beige, taupe and brown, Presti said.

And yet, the Pantone color of the year is a ultra violet, a blue-based purple. Watch for it popping up in accents, textiles, wall coverings and more.

• The ultra-luxe feel of velvet furnishings will wow in 2018, but if you’re not bold enough for a purple velvet couch, try the look with some velvet throw pillows, Presti suggested.

• Also within reach are painted ceilings, which designers consider the fifth wall. A dark color can surprisingly open up a small room by adding a feeling of infinity. Or, paint the ceiling the same as or a shade of the wall color. Just be careful of this trend if you’re looking to sell in 2018, Presti said.

“Buyers want things as neutral as possible,” she said.

“Microwave one part vinegar with two parts water to clean odors out of your microwave.

You can also boil a quart of water mixed with half a cup of vinegar on the stove to get rid of kitchen smells such as burnt food. Soaking bread in vinegar and leaving it overnight in a trash can will also remove bad smells,” Warren said.

Disposal cleaner

“Place small lemon slices into each slot of an ice cube tray, pour vinegar over them and freeze. When you’re ready to clean, toss a handful into the garbage disposal and run it until the cubes are gone for a citrus-scented kitchen,” Warren said.

When not to use

It’s not safe to use vinegar to clean grouted tile or stone showers, marble or granite, egg spills or stains, cleaning irons and unsealed hardwood floors.

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HOME TRENDS for 2018

t’s likely that your mother or grandmother used vinegar to clean their homes. Vinegar still is cheap, effective at killing germs, nontoxic and reduces indoor air pollution.

Want to give it a try?

Here’s a cleaning solution recipe courtesy of Two Men & A Vacuum, a green cleaning company based in Columbus and Cleveland, Ohio.

“This is a gentle solution you can easily make at home,” said Cody Warren, founder of Two Men & A Vacuum. “This is great for kitchen surfaces, stainless steel and bathroom surfaces as well as tile and laminate floors. Great on walls, too. The vinegar leaves a nice shine and also adds a disinfectant.”

• Take an empty spray bottle.

• Fill it with about 75 percent water.

• Add about 25 percent white vinegar (4 to 5 percent acidity).

• Add 3 to 4 drops of dishwashing liquid (preferably a natural brand, but any will do).

For odor removal

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Prepare HVAC systems for warmer days ahead The arrival of a new season can be an exciting time. Homeowners may have renewed vigor to start home renovation projects or even tackle some cleaning and organization tasks. Before the weather starts to warm up too much, homeowners may want to evaluate their home cooling needs and ensure that all equipment is in good working order.

Spring air conditioning inspections and tuneups are essential steps in system performance. Homeowners should not take for granted that a system that performed optimally last year will do so this year when temperatures climb. Various factors, including weather damage, dust and grime, mechanical wear and

tear, and even rodent or insect infestations, can compromise HVAC systems.

Since HVAC systems have so many moving parts, a thorough inspection of such systems can save headaches and money down the road.

According to Heating Ontario, the extreme weather conditions that come along with fall and winter can be especially taxing on homes and the systems that keep them comfortable. During a spring visit, an HVAC technician will perform maintenance on the air conditioner and make sure it is ready for the heat of summertime. This maintenance may include cleaning the unit, checking controls, calibrating the thermostat, lubricating moving parts, checking refrigerant levels, tightening electrical connections, and clearing any clogs. Homeowners are urged to also change the filter at the start of the cooling season.

Correcting any issues in the HVAC system well in advance of the arrival of warm weather can help ensure comfort when air conditioning is needed. As an added advantage, homeowners should install programmable thermostats if they do not already have them to keep cooling as cost- and energy-efficient as possible.

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Stock up on gardening essentials Gardening attracts new devotees year after year. While Baby Boomers may spend more on gardening than any other demographic, even millennials are getting on the gardening bandwagon.

A 2016 National Gardening Survey from the National Gardening Market Research Company found the average amount spent on backyard or balcony gardening projects exceeded $400 per household. More than $36 billion was spent in 2015, and the vast majority of the six million “new” gardening households belonged to millennials.

When it comes to outfitting a gardening shed, gardeners will not want to be without certain tools and gear.

• Digging shovel: A rounded-blade digging shovel is needed to plant shrubs and trees as well as to excavate areas in a landscape.

• Rake: A rake can be used to clear the ground, remove thatch and leaves

from a lawn and level soil in a garden bed.

• Hand tools: Hand tools, such as a hand fork and trowel, are essential for small digging jobs, especially when working with flower pots or containers.

• Edging spade: This flat-blade shovel is handy to have around because of its versatility. Edging spades can slice turf, edge gardens and cut through roots.

• Pruners: Sharpened pruners can cut through stems and branches effortlessly.

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built-in, said Kayla Hein, creative director at ModernCastle. com. “Painting an entry built-in the same color as the existing trim in your home will help it to look like it was always there.

Simply adding painted beadboard and hooks is a quick and inexpensive way to get the built-in look without the cost.”

“If a shoe cabinet would never work for your family, consider placing a large wicker basket in your entryway. Kids can just kick their shoes off and throw them in the basket,” said Sarah Karakaian, interior designer and owner of Nestrs in Astoria, New York. “Sometimes getting too organized complicates things. A basket corrals all the shoes. Make it a chore for someone to return all the shoes to their rightful owners before bedtime.”

Make an

ENTRANCE Get the most out of foyer decor

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Tight space

“The biggest mistake people make with small entries, believe it or not, is going too small with their design elements,” said interior designer Rebecca West, owner of Seriously Happy Homes in Seattle, Washington. “Choose as large a rug as will fit in the space, and hang a large mirror or piece of art. Having fewer, larger things can make a space feel intentional and interesting, while a bunch of small things often ends up looking cluttered and unfinished. The area to go smaller on is depth — keep your console tables, benches and other things that protrude into the room as shallow as possible.”

If space is lacking, think vertically.

“Interesting wall hooks for coats or bags could serve as art pieces as well as for having a place to hang things,” said Marina V. Umali of Marina V Design Studio, Paramus, New Jersey.

“For small entries, shallow wall-mount shelves can be a great way to provide a place for mail and a few decorative accents without sacrificing valuable floor space,” said Tory Keith, president of Board and Park in Natick, Massachusetts.

“For small-sized entryways, consider implementing multifunctional furniture pieces into your design. Not only do trunks provide convenient and much-needed storage, but they can also double as a fashionable bench or table,” said Tracy Stern, founder of T&T Design, New York City and Palm Beach, Florida.

Let there be light

“Invest in a pretty chandelier to greet guests,” said designer Shell Neeley of J. Banks Design, Hilton Head, South Carolina.

“Layers of lighting are great. If you have room for a side table, add lamps. These create a nice ambiance. At the end of a party, as guests are leaving, it’s nice to have lamps on instead of harsher overhead light,” Neeley said.

“Incorporating pendant lighting adds a touch of warm and inviting character to any space. Hanging lights also take up less space than a table or floor lamp, which will make your foyer seem larger and clutter-free,” said Molly Kay, community manager at Arhaus Furniture.

Design wise

By Melissa Erickson

Lindgren Interiors based in Medfield, Massachusetts, outside of Boston.

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he foyer is a place of welcome and transition. Enhance your entryway with some tips from expert designers:

It’s about you

“Given your entryway may be the only room a person ever sees, consider what you want people to know about you. It’s a great place to hang a sign saying something about your family, your love of a pet, your beliefs, a motivational saying. The entryway is usually a place where so much happens, so it’s important that everything in there serve a purpose, especially if you are tight on space,” said interior decorator Ellen Lindgren, owner of Ellen

Clutter-free and organized

“Nothing makes a small space look cluttered faster than shoes, keys, backpacks and other accoutrements that end up on the floor or bench instead of in their proper home,” said Lesley Myrick, owner of Lesley Myrick Art + Design in Waco, Texas. “If there’s a closet, invest in a great closet system to maximize storage. If you’re without a closet, a tall, slender shelving unit with bins or baskets can bring order to the chaos.”

“Since the entryway is likely the collection spot for a lot of the random things that come through your door, give it a home,” whether that means generic square cubbies with basket inserts or a small

“I think we are seeing a rise in the appreciation of hand craftsmanship, so we are starting to see some beautiful rugs making an entry come alive, or some fantastic handmade frames, etc. People are looking for unique and unusual pieces so that they can use this moment as a statement of their taste but also of their ability to curate an interesting collection,” said Los Angeles-based interior designer Mark Cutler.

“Interesting flooring that can be installed to visually enlarge a small entranceway, such as installing tile or wood planks on an angle or juxtaposition to the flooring of the room adjacent to the entryway, can set off the entry as an interesting but separate room,” said Leslie Markman-Stern, president of Leslie M. Stern Design, Chicago, Illinois.

“Circular mirrors have been increasingly popular in 2018, are great for small spaces and blend nicely across most design styles. Complete the space with a dramatic pendant light fixture. We find that geometric shapes work best in foyer areas as these shapes distribute light across the whole room while providing the biggest ‘wow’ factor,” said interior designer Dayna Hairston, owner of Dayziner in Cary, North Carolina.

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SOIL The dirt on your

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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ny seasoned gardener knows that soil matters for healthier produce, lawns and plants. Even novice gardeners can tell how good soil is simply by looking at and feeling it.

Most homes don’t have perfect soil, and soil conditions can change year to year. Doing simple tests before planting can help growers evaluate what they’ve got to work with.

“Most people without a science background can learn enough about their soil to grow a successful garden,” said Clay Robinson, associate professor of soil science, Department of Agriculture, Illinois State University. “Many are surprised at the things they learn when I teach a one- to two-hour lesson on soils, nutrients and water at local meetings and for Master Gardeners because sometimes the common lore does not jibe with science. The observation is correct, but the science of why it happens

often gets misinterpreted.”

Know your soil

When it comes to soil, one of the first things to keep in mind is organic matter, which is a source of plant nutrients and energy for soil organisms.

Organic matter acts like a sponge for holding water in the soil, said Nick Comerford, a soil scientist at the University of Florida.

“Soils with more organic matter are more fertile; they have more nutrients available,” Robinson said.

Generally speaking, the darker the soil, the more organic, Robinson said.

Xeriscape- or drought-tolerant plants are a special case because they “evolved in environments with low organic matter, soil water and soil fertility. Some of these plants do not do well in soils with a lot of organic matter,” Robinson said.

Grab a handful of soil and smell it. Good soil should smell “like the fresh smell after a rain. A bad soil smells like rotten

eggs — it is waterlogged, some roots,” Robinson said. has bad drainage, and oxThere is actually a right way to dig a hole ygen is limiting in the root zone, which will make it difficult for most plants to grow,” Robinson said.

Now, crumble the handful of soil between your fingers. Depending on where you live, soil texture is different because of its composition of sand, silt and clay particles.

“Whatever the texture, though, small clumps (composed of many individual particles) that break with little pressure between the thumb and forefinger are ideal. For some clay soils, this may not achievable because the clumps are too hard.

And very sandy soils may not form clumps at all,” Robinson said.

for planting, whether you’re transplanting a six-pack of flowers or a 5-gallon shrub, Robinson said.

• When digging a hole, do not pat the sides. Compacted soil is unhealthy for plants and plant microbes, which “are what mobilize nutrients for our plants, help decay mulches, etc. So, work carefully with your soil to protect your plants and your microbes,” said Susan Fisk, Master Gardener and spokeswoman for the Soil and Science Society of America.

• Use a small garden spade or trowel to rough up the sides so that you can see the cracks or soil pores where the roots can grow, Robinson said.

• Dig the hole about twice the diameter of the pot and 8 to 16 inches deep, depending on size of the plant. For plants in 1- to 5-gallon pots, dig a hole about one-and-ahalf to two times the size of the pot and up to three times the width, Robinson said.

• Most plants benefit from the addition of compost, which improves water retention and provides energy and nutrients to improve soil and plant health. If you want to fertilize, now’s the time.

• Finally, add the plant and gently firm the soil around the plant roots, but avoid using too much pressure and compacting the soil.

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Right way to dig

Now that you’re on friendly terms with your soil, it may be time to plant as long as the soil is not too wet or if it has rained recently.

“Do not dig/plant in a soil that is very wet. This can destroy soil structure, and may waterlog/drown

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SMART GARDEN TIPS “The quality of plant material available and the way the green industry is responding to what gardeners want mean that we can have beautiful gardens that are environmentally responsible and demand less time and energy, less water and fertilizer, are pollinator-friendly and offer incredible color from foliage and flowers.”

Kerry Ann Mendez

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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mploying some smart gardening tips will have you enjoying your landscape more while spending less time and effort.

“The quality of plant material available and the way the green industry is responding to what gardeners want mean that we can have beautiful gardens that are environmentally responsible and demand less time and energy, less water and fertilizer, are pollinator-friendly and offer incredible color from foliage and flowers,” said garden designer Kerry Ann Mendez, author of “The Right-Size Flower Garden” and just-published “The Budget-Wise Gardener.”

The key is to have the “right-sized garden,” Mendez said.

“Most of us are busy. We like the idea of a beautiful garden but we want to put time back in our pockets,” she said.

The two largest age groups, millennials and baby boomers, gravitate toward gardens on a smaller scale, Mendez said. Millennials are more likely to live in urban settings, while boomers are downsizing because many don’t want to spend so much time maintaining a large landscape.

Picking plants

In order for your gardening endeavors to be enjoyable, “pick the right plant for the right place,” Mendez said. That means a plant’s sun-

light and soil needs should be a good match for the garden where it’s being placed.

“It should be a good marriage,” Mendez said.

Smart sizing

Sometimes your garden just gets out of hand, or maybe you’ve moved and inherited a big garden that requires too much effort.

Mendez’s mantra is, “Plants are not your children or pets. You can ditch those that are too much trouble or never performed well in the garden.”

Plant subtraction is difficult but a smart choice for people who want to enjoy their garden more. The garden should be a place of escape from the business of life, a place for family time, Mendez said.

“Get rid of what doesn’t work. Replace or remove. Take off your rosy glasses and stop feeling guilty,” said Mendez, who downsized her own garden to add an outside patio.

Two-fers

“Pick plants that are two-fers,” Mendez said, meaning perennials or shrubs should have long bloom times or feature blooms plus interesting foliage. “You’ve got to give me more than just flowers,” she said.

For example, the perennial foamy bells (heucherella) can thrive in sun or shade depending where you live.

“Gorgeous and easy to grow, foamy bells has dazzling, eye-catching clumps of foliage and

tiny yet incredible flowers. Pollinators love it, and it requires low water. It’s a real workhorse plant,” Mendez said.

For a comparable shrub, consider the oakleaf hydrangea, which is one of the few hydrangeas native to the United States. Stunning flowers bloom in early spring/summer, and if not cut they dry on the plant and last into fall when foliage turns a stunning shade of burgundy, Mendez said.

“Over winter, its bark exfoliates, or peels back, to reveal a rich underlayer. It’s a four-season plant,” Mendez said.

Get contained

A “huge revolution” is taking place in container gardening, Mendez said. The industry is responding to what people want and offering lightweight, self-watering containers pretty enough to be used indoors and out. They’re practical, efficient and great for people with poor soil or limited space. For example, Crescent Garden’s True Drop planters can go without watering for up to six weeks, Mendez said.

Mendez hosts free monthly online webinars on the art of high-impact, low maintenance, sustainable flower gardening and landscaping. Sign up at her website, Perennially Yours, pyours. com.

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PILLOWPOWER Creating a stylish bed display

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

W

hen it comes to pillows on the bed, how many is too many? Cathy Hobbs, interior designer and founder of Design Recipes, shares her insight and expertise on style, size and pillow arranging.

“For many interior designers, toss pillows are not only a secret design weapon, but also the icing on the cake. Toss pillows, instead of being an afterthought, can and should complete a color story, serve as an opportunity to bring in graphics and texture, as well as serve as a prominent design accessory,” Hobbs said.

How many pillows is not only a matter of personal preference, it’s a great debate. While “displaying pillows properly does require some thought and planning,” in general there are no rules, Hobbs said.

Scale and proportion

To achieve proper balance, start from the back and work your way

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forward, Hobbs said.

“Organize your pillows by size, with the largest pillows in the back and the smallest pillows in the front. A cascading layout in which the heaviest concentration of pillows is in the center and then the display becomes thinner on either end remains a popular trend,” she said.

A look that’s especially “en vogue right now is the use of pillows that are all the same height. Instead of using a series of pillows that are high and low, pillows that are all the same height and even the same color is a current popular trend relating to displaying toss pillows,” Hobbs said.

Pillow talk

“One popular trend is to dress a bed only using decorative pillows and place one’s sleep pillows in a closet or under a bed only to be used at night. …

Beds are large and as such this is an opportunity where you can display a larger amount of pillows and not overwhelm,” Hobbs said.

As a general rule: two or three decorative toss pillows work well on a twin bed, five or six pillows on a full or queen bed and king-sized beds can typically accommodate seven to 10 pillows, Hobbs said.

Dress (your bed) for success

• Determine how many rows of pillows you wish to have. One or two rows work well with twin beds; three rows are ideal for full, queen and king beds.

• Begin by positioning large decorative pillows against the headboard: 20 by 20 inches or 24 by 24 inches are good sizes.

Choose just two or enough to extend across the length of your headboard. As this row serves as the anchor for the pillow display, solid colors work best.

• For the next row, go a size or two smaller, such as 18 by 18 inches. In this middle row, you can mix pillows of different colors and textures.

• For the third row (the front), make a statement. One or two pillows perhaps in an interesting shape or material will help make your display shine.

Go bold

“Pillows are considered to be portable design. ... Use toss pillows as an opportunity to introduce bold patterns and textures such as faux fur or metallic, and if you don’t like the look you can always try another space in your home,” Hobbs said.

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TIP OF THE WEEK SHERWIN-WILLIAMS

RE-ROOF CHECKLIST Consider the following before you re-roof, according to TAMKO Building Products Inc.: • Determine layover or tear off. Although tearing off existing shingles is more expensive due to increased labor costs, there could be advantages.

• Research the warranty. It is important to understand the warranty.

• Assess ventilation needs. It is generally recommended to incorporate proper ventilation into the re-roof.

Connect rooms with color

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

T

he color relationship between rooms matters — especially if your home features a fluid floor plan and guests can see from one room into another.

“Color coordination is something many people contend with because open floor plans have been on trend for quite a while,” said designer, TV host and author Vern Yip. “The problem becomes how to differentiate between rooms, or do you want to paint all the rooms the same color,” said the author of “Vern Yip’s Design Wise” and host of TLC’s “Trading Spaces,” premiering Saturday, April 7.

Painting may be the first thing to come to mind, but there are many other ways to tie rooms together, Yip said.

“Drapery, upholstery, throw pillows, art on the wall. Realize that you don’t have to change the color of the room to add distinct characteristics. You have other tools,” Yip said.

Accent with color

“Use the same accent color, repeated in different ways, in different rooms,” said designer Debbie Wiener, owner of Slob Proof Furniture in Chestertown, Maryland.

A homeowner who wants a variety of beige, taupe and cream-colored neutral walls but loves lavender can add lavender in the living room with throw pillows, a vase or a picture frame, Wiener said.

In a master bedroom/bath suite, you could bring the color of the walls in the bedroom into the bathroom as accent tile or cabinet color, said Carla Aston, interior designer at Aston Design Studio, The Woodlands, Texas.

“If this was a living room/dining room that adjoined, the dining room wall color could be picked up in the living room as pillows, upholstery accents or even drapery treatments,” Aston said.

Trendy colors

Pulling color through your home helps create interest and flow, said interior designer Jill Thomson, Jill Thomson Design, Las Vegas, Nevada. If you’re embracing trendy colors like millennial pink, bold reds and yellows or organic greens, Thomson recommends adding the color in subtle, inexpensive ways like accessories that are easy to replace or change when you tire of that color.

Another idea for creating flow would be to use a primary color in one room and using it again in the adjoining room, as an accent color, to tie them together, said Sue Wadden, director of color marketing with Sherwin-Williams.

Break the rules

“Many of our clients’ homes are open-plan spaces without boundaries from room to room. We find using a limited palette of colors can be a sure bet for a great look,” said interior designers Hector Romero and Chris Obeji, romero + obeji

L AW N C A R E

interior design, Long Beach, California. “For instance, try using all cool colors such as blues and greens and don’t be afraid to mix it up. Gone is the day when you’re forbidden from mixing hues, like black and navy.

What about introducing avocado to kelly green? They’ll love each other!”

PREP FOR SPRING

Paint the trim

• Evaluate your lawn for dead spots and bring a rake to break up any thatched areas.

To wake up your lawn in the spring, the lawn experts at Lowe’s have provided these steps.

• Tune up your equipment.

“One great way to make spaces feel consistent is to use matching trim and other finishes, like doors and crown molding. Keeping the same paint or stain color on these accents will help the flow of the entire space, even if you opt for different wall colors in every room,” said Erika Woelfel, vice president of Color and Creative Services at Behr.

• Reseed where needed.

• Plant while it’s still cool.

— Brandpoint

Avoid the amusement park

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When every room is a new, rich color it can make your home look “like an amusement park,” Yip said.

Instead, work with the same color tones but in shades. Make it easy by picking up a paint strip at the paint or hardware store that shows gradation from light to dark, he said.

That said, if you want one room that really stands out with a dramatic paint scheme, “that’s OK. That works,” Yip said.

Smooth tip: For a smooth transition always change color in an inside corner rather than an outside corner of a room, Yip said. Aston calls this the “sweet spot for a transition” as it gets rid of uneven edge and creates a “seamless approach to material changes.”

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Tweak away that leak

news-star.com Shawnee News-Star

several possible repair scenarios, as follows: • Best-case scenario:

You’ll find a gap in the caulk sealing the frame to the exterior wall, which is letting in drafts and possibly water as well. Apply some new, good-quality caulk for an easy and inexpensive repair. (TIPS: For proper adhesion, be sure to thoroughly remove any old flaking caulk and clean the window frame before you start. And take care you seal the top of the window — where precipitation can puddle — as well as the bottom and sides.)

• Not-so-bad-case scenario: It could be that the

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How to fix windows that drip water

By Laura Firszt More Content Now

W

hen’s the best time to spot a leaking window? In the middle of a rainstorm, of course. When’s the worst time to fix a leaking window? Ditto.

Don’t panic, though.

Get out your phone and take a picture of the mess instead. That way, if you need to call a pro to take care of your problem, you’ll have clear evidence as to the location and severity of the leak. And, as an informed consumer, do your homework by checking out these leaking window causes and cures.

1. Inspect the weep holes

Weep holes are openings built into the bottom of your metal or

vinyl window frames, which are designed to drain off precipitation that collects in the window tracks. If your window is leaking because these holes have clogged up, breathe a sigh of relief. Clearing clogged weep holes is the simplest, lowest-cost fix for window leaks.

Remove fallen leaves, twigs, insect corpses and other objects that may be blocking these openings. Then clean the holes out with a cotton swab or bit of wire (the slow way) or a spritz of compressed air (the shortcut). Clear weep holes are able do their job properly and won’t let the tracks overflow in heavy rain.

2. Look at your window seal

The glass of your window should be solidly sealed to a rubber or vinyl gasket within the

frame. If the pane has loosened over the years, renew the seal, using transparent silicone caulk.

3. Check your window frame

If the frame is the cause of your leaking window, there are

existing weatherstripping has worn out. Take down the operable part of the window (the portion that slides horizontally or vertically when you open it) first. Then remove the old weatherstripping, along with any traces of leftover adhesive, and replace it with a new peel-and-stick version (available at most hardware and home stores).

• Worst-case scenario:

You may discover that your wooden window frames have rotted and you will need to hire a pro to replace them. Or you might find that the frames

were incorrectly installed in the first place; actually not such a bad scenario if they are still under warranty and if the original installer is still in business and if he’s prepared to honor the warranty.

4. Consider other possible sources of leakage

Sometimes, water that appears to be the result of a leaking window is really coming from another source altogether.

Make sure that the source of the leak is not actually your home’s roof, exterior walls, or upstairs bathroom.

5. Minimize water damage

If heavy rain makes window repair impossible for the time being (or if you’re waiting for a pro to arrive and fix the problem), meanwhile you can at least minimize water damage, which, unchecked, may lead to mold and rot. Place a rolled up towel or large rag in the area of the leak — to absorb the water — and change it regularly for a dry one. If at all possible, move carpeting, furniture, and other items away from the window area.

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Signs of a

SICK TREE

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

S

torms can wreak havoc on the trees in your yard, breaking limbs, felling them and causing all sorts of general harm.

Even quick storms can cause significant and lasting damage — even property damage or personal injury — so be prepared and have a plan in place.

“Keeping trees healthy, pruned and structurally sound helps minimize accidents before, during and after the storm. Once a storm subsides, make it a priority to check landscape trees, or better yet, contact a qualified, certified arborist to take a closer look,” said R.J. Laverne, manager of education and training at Davey Tree.

Trees maintained throughout the year are less likely to break apart in storms because weak branches are identified and carefully removed before the storm can break them, Laverne said.

Poorly maintained trees can become a problem.

Regularly check for broken, damaged or leaning trunks, branches or limbs.

Some maintenance is best left to the professionals.

Some signs your tree needs attention: • Deadwood: Dead trees and branches can fall at any time. Look for leafless branches when others have plenty of green leaves. Another sign of deadwood is old bark that has mostly fallen away

— instead there is only smooth wood underneath.

• Cracks: Check for deep splits in the bark that extend into the wood of the tree.

• Decay: Soft wood or cavities where wood is missing at the base of the trunk or in the roots can lead to the entire tree falling over, so be particularly attentive to signs of decay in these areas. Healthy trees are better suited to wall off decay while struggling

trees will succumb to decay more quickly.

• Weak branch unions: When two or more

Sunday, April 1, 2018 • 1J

branches or trunks that are roughly equal in size come together in a tight V-shaped angle, there is frequently bark embedded in the union. This makes for a weak attachment that is more likely to break apart.

• Evidence of soil lifting near roots: High winds can cause trees to rock, even causing roots to break off or lift. Check to see if a tree is leaning or if the soil near the base of the tree is lifting on one side.

This can be a particularly serious problem in areas where digging, trenching or construction activities may have damaged roots.

• Imbalanced tree crown: Some trees grow naturally with an imbalanced or lopsided canopy, and they compensate by growing extra wood to support the weight. Other trees begin growing in a balanced manner, but excessive pruning or damage removes much of the canopy on one side. This sudden imbalance in the canopy brings additional force to the trunk and roots, increasing the likelihood of failure. Pay close attention to trees that have experienced rapid change in the shape or size of their canopy.

• Impact of construction: Closely examine trees near areas of construction activity, particularly if digging has taken place within the drip line of the tree (that’s the area directly under the branches).

Digging can cut through roots, and the compaction of soil with heavy equipment or the addition of fill soil can smother the roots, increasing the likelihood that the entire tree will fall.

“Although defective trees are dangerous, not all of them need to be removed immediately, and some defects can be treated to prolong the life of the tree. Seek a consultation with a certified arborist to evaluate tree species, soil conditions, wind exposure, defects, overall health and other factors to determine a tree’s hazard potential,” Laverne said.

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news-star.com Shawnee News-Star

How to imrove the value of your trade-in When the time comes to purchase a new vehicle, many drivers explore trading in their existing cars or trucks. Trade-ins can reduce the cost of buying new vehicles and save drivers the hassle of selling their vehicles on their own.

Motorists who think trading in is the best way to unload their current cars can take various steps to improve the trade-in value prior to visiting the dealership.

Personalize your ride

with a new set of wheels (BPT) - The idea of a new car or truck is exciting. What's even more exciting is making that new vehicle your own.

There are countless ways to personalize a vehicle, but one of the easiest ways to spruce up a vehicle is by adding a new set of wheels. In fact, wheels are typically the first thing vehicle owners upgrade on a car or truck after purchasing it from the dealership.

According to the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) in its 2017 Market Research Report, wheels are among the most purchased items by consumers in the $42 billion aftermarket industry. Because there are many wheel options, SEMA recommends researching the various wheel types available for your specific vehicle and learning about the different wheel finish options, each of which has its advantages and disadvantages.

Here are basics about wheel finishes to keep in mind:

Painted: Opting

for painted wheels will give you an endless amount of options when it comes to colors and effects, allowing you to personalize your vehicle exactly how you desire. Painted wheels are typically primed before wet paint is applied, and they are finalized with a clear topcoat to protect the paint.

To minimize damage or discoloration due to heat or dust brought

about by daily use, painted wheels should be cleaned with a non-acidic and non-abrasive soap that should not be allowed to dry onto the wheel.

Polished: Polished wheels are great if you want a wheel with a shiny look or mirror-like finish that is not heavy, which could aid in fuel economy. The wheel is polished to a high luster by buffing it using a machine or by hand before being protected with a high-gloss clear coat.

Polished wheels can be cleaned with mild soap and dried with a microfiber towel, then coated and hand-polished with a non-abrasive wax to help it maintain its luster.

Chrome: If you want the shini-

est look possible, opt for a chrome wheel. This popular and classic type of wheel finish is achieved by adding layers of metals, such as copper, nickel and chromium, to create a very reflective finish. You can easily clean chrome wheels with soap and water, then dry them with a soft cloth. To prevent dirt and dust from sticking to the wheels, add a layer of wax after cleaning them.

Powder-coated: For an extremely durable wheel finish that is resistant to scratches and fading and comes in many color options, go with a powder-coated wheel.

To achieve this finish, a wheel is grounded and sprayed with a powder-coat (usually a polyester or epoxy), then exposed to heat (usu-

ally in a heating oven), essentially baking on the smooth finish. Like their painted counterparts, powder-coated wheels can be cleaned with a mild soap that should not be allowed to dry on the wheel finish.

You can further protect the finish by applying a wheel sealant or coating solution.

These are but a few of the many types of finishes available in the wheel segment of the automotive aftermarket industry that can help give your vehicle an updated look.

Every type of wheel finish provides variations in shine, color and required maintenance, so take the time to research what's available.

Regardless of the wheel you decide to go with, it will surely help get you on the road to creating a vehicle that meets your unique, individual needs.

Manufacturers introduce new wheels and many other products annually at the SEMA Show, the leading trade-only show for businesses in the automotive industry. Consumers can connect with some of these businesses at the official SEMA Show after-party, also known as SEMA Ignited, where one-of-a-kind custom vehicle builds featuring the newest aftermarket products, including wheels, parade out of the convention center before making their way to the ultimate car show open to the public. For more information, visit www.semaignited.com.

• Know the trade-in market. Some trade-ins may be more valuable than others, even if the cars are relatively similar with regard to mileage.

For example, preowned vehicle buyers typically prefer late model vehicles as opposed to cars that are older. This is even more apparent now that many car buyers want smartphone-friendly vehicles that afford them access to the apps and GPS systems on their phones. Drivers who want to get maximum value for their trade-ins may benefit by trading in a year or so earlier than they initially planned, as this will make their cars or trucks more attractive to prospective buyers, which should make it easier for dealerships to sell the vehicle. • Address any issues. Dealerships will offer to tend to any repairs trade-ins may need, but that will come at a cost, which will be reflected in the trade-in value of the car. Vehicle owners should address any issues before taking their vehicles to the dealership. Fix any doors that stick or minor scratches on the vehicle’s exterior, remembering to have the car detailed, washed and waxed.

Investigate if any major problems, such as engine troubles, are worth fixing on your own, or if you’re better off receiving less for your trade-in and letting the dealership address such issues. • Keep maintenance records. Maintenance records illustrating that the vehicle was taken care of can help owners get more for their trade-ins.

Drivers who intend to trade the vehicle in to the same dealership where the vehicle was purchased should still keep their own maintenance records to eliminate potential problems as they negotiate the trade-in value of their vehicles. • Shop around. Drivers who are not satisfied with the trade-in value assigned by a specific dealership can shop around until they find better offers. Some dealerships may not offer much for a vehicle because they already have a similar car or truck sitting on their lot, while others may jump at the chance to make their preowned inventory more diverse. Exercise patience when shopping around to reduce any frustration that might develop during the negotiation process.

Various factors impact the trade-in value of cars and trucks. When purchasing new cars, vehicle owners can employ various strategies to get the most money for their current automobiles.

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4 simple swaps when planning a kitchen refresh (BPT) - Spring is in full swing, which means it's time to reinvigorate your kitchen with a new look! When planning your refresh, consider these simple, stylish swaps that don't require investing tons of time or budget.

Upgrade your kitchen fixtures Faucets often serve as the centerpiece of the kitchen. Replacing an outdated model is an easy way to give your space a facelift. Choose a piece that's as functional as it is fashionable such as the Delta Allentown Faucet, available at The Home Depot. This faucet offers an industrial, versatile design and tech-savvy appeal for every modern homeowner. Complete with TempSense Technology, the faucet will notify you when water has reached your desired temperature through coded LED light colors.

Liven up your cabinets Small changes can make all the difference. Replacing outdated cabinet knobs and drawer pulls can give your space a fresh streamlined look with minimal effort. Dated accessories can weigh down the aesthetic of the entire room. Instead, replace with hardware in a bold bronze or sleek matte black finish.

Enhance simple walls Play with textures to create a more intriguing space. Replace flat wall paint with a backsplash made from unique materials, such as faux-brick, salvaged wood or stainless-steel subway tile. A textured surface touting quality and distinction lends a design-forward aesthetic without breaking the bank.

Embrace the unexpected Replace traditional décor with curated accents to elevate the space and delight the eye. Incorporate a plush patterned rug or paint cabinets with an on-trend hue of blue, gray and green, such as Behr's Color of the Year titled, "In the Moment." Most importantly, remember to let your personality shine by adding items that have special

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meaning. Whether it's a set of vintage bronze candlesticks you found at a local antique shop or artwork purchased on vacation, unanticipated personal pieces often create storytelling moments and receive the very best of compliments.

For more design inspiration, visit DeltaFaucet.com/design-innovation/inspiredliving.

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BEST OF THE BEST BEST ROOFING COMPANY

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On behalf of the Extreme Roofing Solutions family, we would like to thank you for making us the #1 roofing company in Shawnee once again.

We have the best customers in Oklahoma; we appreciate your business and your voting to make us the Reader’s Choice for 2018.

We look forward to meeting your roofing, siding and window needs in the future.

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