HOME style & GARDEN FALL 2020
A Home Improvement Guide
A supplement to the Skagit Valley Herald and Anacortes American
Contents
Your Fall Gardening Checklist ................................... 3 Getting Rid of Leaves .................................................. 4 Preparing Your Soil for Winter .................................. 5 Fall Landscape Tips ..................................................... 6 12 Ways to Winterproof Your Property ...................... 7
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7 Things That Can Liven Up a Corner ........................ 8 SKAGIT PUBLISHING
5 Components of a Cozy Nursery ................................ 9
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Prepare Your Home for Storm Season ...................... 10 Tips for Planning a Major Renovation ...................... 12 Hardwood Floors: Repair or Replace? ...................... 13 Unwind on a Daybed ................................................. 14 5 Reasons to Renovate Your Home in the Fall........... 15
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Your fall gardening checklist
Y
ou meticulously tended your garden all summer, and though those long hot days have subsided, it isn’t quite yet time to hang up your gardening gloves. Here’s a list of things to do this fall that will ensure your garden is in top form come spring. 1. Use the fallen leaves on your property to mulch your garden or supplement your compost heap. 2. Before the first hard frost, bring indoors any fragile perennials or tropical plants you grow outside. Try enjoying them as houseplants for as long as you can, or, if it suits the plants, place them in a cool, dark room for their dormancy period. 3. Tend to your lawn by fertilizing and reseeding it. Spread seed in early and late fall. Use an aerator tool to aerate the grass, and for the last two cuttings of the season, lower your lawn mower’s blade to the lowest setting. 4. Set in any new fall-planted bulbs—tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, crocuses and snowdrops—before the ground freezes. These bulbs need to spend a winter in the ground in order to flower properly in the spring. Plant them in sunny areas with welldrained soil and water them thoroughly. 5. Prepare some anti-frost covers for your late-growing produce. Use a tarp or individual upside-down plastic containers. Keep in mind that some vegetables can survive the first frost, including pumpkins, carrots, parsnips, some turnips, spinach, and cabbages.
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6. Condition your garden soil with compost, leaves or other organic material, and if you can, till it under for early planting next spring. If soil erosion is a problem, plant a green ground cover. 7. Clean up your gardening tools and store them away. Wipe down your lawn mower and weed eater, and oil any moving parts. Give your hoes, spades and wheelbarrow a wipe-down with a mild bleach solution to remove any plant diseases or spores. Doing all the above will help position your garden for another great growing season come spring and allow you to rest easy over the winter months.
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Getting Rid of Leaves A
s fall moves in, it brings crisp temperatures, bonfire weather and leaves changing to beautiful colors. When the trees lose their cover, the result on the ground can be a nightmare to adults but a wonderland for kids.
isn’t enough to efficiently eliminate the leaves that fall. Consider equipping yourself with these helpful tools to make the process easier.
• Leaf blower: This self-
If you have many trees on your property, your once-luscious lawn will soon be replaced with leaves littering your yard. Leaf removal can be a chore for many yards in the country, luckily there are tools available to make the job easier.
Build Your Leaf-Removal Arsenal For many yards, a traditional rake just
explanatory tool allows operators to blow leaves into a certain area on their property. They make quick work of problem areas. You can find these tools in battery-, gas- or electricpowered options.
mulch bag to your mower to quickly collect fallen leaves.
• Tarp: Once you have the leaves in a neat pile, then what? If you position them on a tarp while you make your pile, you can easily bundle them up and dispose of them responsibly.
Safe Burning For some, using leaves as compost is a fall tradition. They are packed with nutrients that other plants rely on to flourish. You can add grass trimmings, organic manure and surprisingly, dryer lint into this pile.
• Lawn mower: A quality lawn mower is still useful even after the grass stops growing. Consider adding a
For many others, the preferred method of disposing leaves is to burn them. When starting a fire, follow these safety tips from the American Red Cross:
• Clear leaves away from the home and other buildings and only burn in accordance to your local laws and guidelines.
• Be prepared for a fire to get out of control. You should always keep an extinguisher, rake, ax and bucket available when burning leaves.
• Install smoke alarms on every level and in every room of your home. In case a fire spreads to your structure without warning, your loved ones inside will be alerted.
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For kids, there isn’t a better part to fall than collapsing in a giant pile of leaves. Before disposing of them, allow the little ones to play for a while. You can even find fun-themed garbage bags which resemble silly characters once filled. This is a great way to provide the kiddos with entertainment while getting a little help clearing the leaves. goskagit.com
Preparing your soil for winter A
fter the hard work of tending to your vegetable garden all summer, you might just feel like letting the garden go. But if you’re willing to spend a day putting the garden to bed properly, your next year’s crop will get more nutrients and a better chance at growing delicious vegetables.
1. Clean up. Pull up all unproductive plants; burn or send to the landfill any infested or diseased ones. You can either leave the dead plants on the soil to be tilled under or place them in your compost heap.
2. Add compost. Highly decomposed compost amends your soil with valuable nutrients. The organisms and insects in the compost will also improve the microstructure of your soil.
3. Add leaves. Run over your leaves a few times with the lawn mower to chop them up, and then spread in a thin layer across the garden. You can also use some wood chips or sawdust. The material will compost over winter and improve your soil.
4. Till or plow, if possible. If the season hasn’t been too rainy and if you have a chance before the ground freezes, till under the organic materials you’ve added to your soil. This will let you start working the garden sooner in the spring.
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Fall Landscape Tips E
ven though temperatures may be chilly during autumn, there is still plenty to do outdoors to ensure your lawn will look great next spring. Break out your sweatshirt and get outside to take care of some important lawn maintenance.
Keep Mowing Don’t skip mowing your lawn just because the temperatures aren’t ideal. Once grass grows too long, it acts as a cover to surrounding blades. Sunlight is crucial to the well-being of a healthy lawn. When snow falls,
long grass is easily packed down and promotes snow mold. The University of Minnesota Extension defines this type of mold as a fungal disease that appears in early spring as the snow melts. It is known to cause circular, straw-colored patches once the weather begins warming up.
concrete on your property. Consider applying a sealant to fill the cracks or contact a professional to ensure your walkways won’t suffer even further during any upcoming cold weather.
Find a Deal on New Plants
While each region may see different success stories when planting trees, Fix Damaged Concrete the Morton Arboretum states fall is If you notice your driveway or walkway a great time to get the plants in the has cracks in the concrete, fall is the ground because: time to correct them. Once it is cold enough for water to freeze, it will cause • Temperatures are typically moderate to cool, giving trees the chance to further damage to any defects in the grow without becoming stressed by extreme heat.
An enticing selection of common and uncommon plants
• Transpiration is low and rootgeneration potential is high. Local nurseries will likely have awesome sales on their plants that are left over from the summer. Talk to them to see which species can survive being in the ground during the winter, or how to preserve them until next spring.
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12 ways to winterproof your property W
inter weather can take a toll on your home’s exterior. However, if you take precautions, you can protect it from getting damaged. Here are 12 essential tasks to complete before the season’s first snowfall. 1. Inspect the roof. Clear off leaves and other debris so you can examine the shingles. Replace any that are damaged or worn out. 2. Clean the window wells. Remove all leaves, sticks and other debris. Make sure the drains are clear to prevent water from pooling and possibly leaking into your basement. 3. Empty the gutters. Once the trees on your property have shed their leaves, remove all debris from your gutters. Clogs can lead to ice damming and even water damage. 4. Check the foundation. Look for cracks and repair them before winter. Otherwise, water can seep into the concrete and cause more extensive damage when it freezes. 5. Sweep the chimney. Hire a professional to remove soot and creosote from the flue to prevent
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a fire. Make sure the chimney cap is intact so critters can’t sneak in. Install the vent covers. Keep out cold air and pests by installing covers over the exterior vents for your dryer and range hood. Otherwise, check that the existing ones are in good condition. Close the pool. Clean out the filter, drain the pool about halfway and disconnect the pump. Remember to remove the ladder before you install the winter cover. Plant the bulbs. Get all your spring bulbs in the ground before it freezes. Remember to cut back perennials. Tidy up the yard. Rake the leaves, clean out the gardens, aerate your lawn and add mulch or compost as needed.
10. Protect the shrubs. Wrap bushes and saplings in burlap or tree wrap, and bring potted plants inside. 11. Prune the trees and hedges. Cut away branches that are close to your home to avoid winter storm damage. This will also help prevent animals from climbing onto your roof. 12. Put away summer items. Clean the grill and disconnect the propane tank before you cover up the barbecue. Drain the sprinkler system and shut off the water supply. Wipe down and store the patio furniture. Since fall is a busy time for arborists, pool technicians and other professionals, be sure to schedule your service calls sooner rather than later.
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7 things that can liven up a corner
1. Bookshelf Whether it’s designed for a corner or simply placed at an angle, a unit filled with books is a practical way to style an unused space.
2. Frames Hang an assortment of family photos, prints and artwork on both of the adjoining walls in an empty corner. Use similar frames for a cohesive look.
3. Armchair Transform an unoccupied corner into a comfortable reading nook with a soft, upholstered armchair. If you need a more compact alternative, consider a pouf, padded chair or stool.
4. Lighting Brighten up a dim corner with a few pendant lights hung at different heights. A classic floor lamp is another good option.
5. Baskets Suspend baskets from the ceiling or arrange them on wall-mounted shelves. You can do the same with wooden crates, or if the corner is in a kitchen, you can hang pots and pans.
Is there a corner in your home that could use a makeover? If so, here are seven items you can use to spruce it up.
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6. Plants Breathe new life into a forgotten corner with an arrangement of potted plants. You can display them on a stand, arrange them on the floor or suspend them with macrame hangers.
7. Shelving Install a few corner-shaped floating shelves and decorate them with trinkets or practical items. You could display glassware in a dining room, cosmetics in a bathroom or candles in a living room.
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5 components of a cozy nursery If you have a baby on the way, you’ll probably want to think about creating a nursery. Here are five design elements to incorporate into the room.
A soft, neutral palette
A versatile changing table
adheres to the latest government safety standards. This includes having Create a soothing space with light An increasing number of vendors a tight-fitting mattress and bars that tones and pastel colors. Options like now offer multi-purpose changing are no more than 2-3/8 inches apart. seafoam green, lavender and cream tables that double as a dresser or You should also be aware that dropare lovely alternatives to the traditional bookcase. In addition to being an side cribs are a hazard and their sale is pale pink and baby blue. Be sure to use attractive piece of furniture, you’ll have prohibited. eco-friendly paint that doesn’t contain plenty of storage space for clothes and For the finishing touches, install volatile organic compounds (VOCs). toys as your child gets older. a roller shade or thick curtains to A durable floor A safe place to sleep make nap time easier. You should also include a few lighting options such as a Favor strong materials like bamboo, Before you purchase a new or ceiling light, table lamp and nightlight. cork and vinyl that will provide a second-hand crib, make sure it comfortable play surface for your infant. Avoid flooring with a glossy finish as it will highlight every scratch ® and imperfection. A soft rug makes a nice addition to the space, and there are colors and designs for every taste. Legendary recliners with comfort and style
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A comfortable place to feed, soothe and read to your baby is essential. Opt for a rocking chair, glider or simply one with sufficient padding. For those 3 a.m. wake-up calls, treat yourself to a rocking ottoman as well so you’ll have a place to rest your feet.
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Prepare Your Home for Storm Season P
rotecting your personal safety is the first priority when severe weather emerges with homes and personal property often running a close second. After all, the home is not only a place for comfort and sanctuary - it could be your single largest investment. As temperatures soar, so do the chances for tumultuous weather. The Department of Energy reports that nearly 90 percent of major power outages are caused by severe storms. With these tips, you can help ensure that your home is ready for anything Mother Nature has to offer. • Maintain vegetation. Falling trees and branches can wreak considerable havoc on a home’s exterior, along with possessions like vehicles or patio furniture. Keep trees and shrubs well-pruned so strong winds are less likely to grab hold of a wayward branch. If necessary, consult with an expert to ensure trees are trimmed back away from the house adequately to minimize your risk. • Secure potential flight risks. There are plenty of items that can either become damaged or cause damage if they are swept up in a strong wind. Top-heavy items like grills can topple over, and patio furniture could blow out into the yard or even into your home. Don’t overlook smaller culprits, such as gravel or landscaping rock, which can be tossed around and cause serious destruction. • Make time for maintenance. Home repairs that seem minor can become much bigger problems if a storm exacerbates what’s broken. Loose roof shingles or shutters are especially susceptible to storm damage, as are ill-fitting screens. Regularly scanning your home for defects and taking immediate steps to fix them can help prevent relatively small issues from becoming major projects. Be sure to keep gutters and downspouts on your checklist; a heavy storm can produce enough standing water to flood your home in minutes if proper drainage is hampered. • Install backup systems. Power outages are one of the most common afflictions of storm season, but with the proper equipment you can avoid the danger and inconvenience. A premium standby generator which is
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permanently installed and runs on natural gas or liquid propane vapor can be set to turn on automatically to power selected electrical circuits and appliances. The systems are also compatible with wireless monitoring apps that allow homeowners to verify the generator is ready before a storm strikes. • Review insurance coverage. Revisiting your insurance coverage at least every six months can help ensure you know what exclusions exist and where you may need to add supplemental policies or increase your limits. This is also a good time to update an inventory list that documents all your major possessions and valuables; store the list in a safe place such as a weatherproof home safe or electronically via email or a cloud-based server. In many parts of the country, storm season is inevitable, but taking the proper precautions can help ensure your family and home are ready to handle whatever the season brings.
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Tips for planning a major renovation Do you want to remodel your home so it better suits the needs of your growing family? Or maybe you hope that a major upgrade will appeal to potential buyers? Regardless of your goals, here are a few things you should do to ensure your large-scale renovation is a success. • Determine your needs and establish a list of priorities such as creating an open-concept living space or adding a second floor • Settle on a maximum budget and reserve a portion of the amount for unexpected expenses Cathy West Oak Harbor Escrow Manager/LPO 360.679.5055
Eldon Brown Skagit County Manager 360.707.2158
Christa Canell Freeland Escrow Manager/LPO 360.331.4838
Holly Mathers Island County Title Manager 360.675.2246
Katey Von Hagel Marketing Representative 360.707.1076
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• Do some research to find out whether you qualify for any home renovation rebate programs • Obtain all the necessary permits from your municipality before you begin any work • Consult with and hire all needed professionals such as an architect, interior designer, general contractor and electrician • Set a realistic timeframe in which to complete the work
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• If needed, make arrangements for your family to live elsewhere during the renovations
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Remember, when properly planned and completed by experienced professionals, most major home renovations offer a great return on investment.
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Hardwood floors: repair or replace? Have your hardwood floors seen better days? If the planks are dull, stained, damaged or creaky, you may be wondering if you should refinish them or simply start over. Here are some factors to consider before you decide.
Repair
If the planks are warped or worn thin, however, they’re likely beyond repair. Similarly, if numerous damaged planks need to be replaced, you’re probably better off starting over.
If you like the look of your hardwood Replace floors, you may be able to revive If you’re in the mood for a them. Sanding and varnishing as well change, installing new flooring is an as staining the wood can extend the opportunity to completely transform lifespan of your floors by a few years. the look of your home. Plus, it will last
for many years to come. It should also be noted that renovating old floors can take several days, whereas replacing them is a fairly quick process albeit more expensive. If you’re still uncertain about whether to repair or replace them, ask a professional to evaluate the condition of your hardwood floors. He or she will be able to recommend a solution.
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Unwind on a daybed
Real Wood Real Quality
If you want an elegant piece of furniture built for lounging, consider including a daybed in your home decor. This trendy item offers a number of advantages. A cross between a couch, single bed and chaise longue, the daybed is a versatile piece of furniture. It’s equally great as a spot for sitting, sleeping or curling up with a book. Plus, a daybed is just as stylish as it is functional. Available in a wide variety of materials and styles, it can tie in with nearly any design esthetic. Use yours to create a private retreat or an inviting area for guests.
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This multipurpose piece of furniture can be used to optimize your living space without having to compromise on decor. To find the right daybed for your home, visit a furniture store in your area.
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5 reasons to renovate your home in the fall Although most home renovation projects can be undertaken at any time of the year, there are numerous advantages to starting them in the fall. Unless you need to deal with urgent repairs, here are five reasons it’s best to renovate in autumn. 1. Ideal temperatures Unlike the weather that’s typical in winter and summer, the coolness of fall offers optimal working conditions for most renovation projects.
2. Prompt service Since the demand for home maintenance work tends to diminish at the end of summer, contractors and tradespeople are more readily available in the fall. This means shorter wait times for service. 3. Lower costs Given the decrease in demand at this time of the year, some home renovation companies reduce their prices in the fall, which could allow you to enjoy considerable savings. 4. Simpler logistics The influx of workers, temporary loss of living space and ubiquitous layer of dust that come with a major renovation will be much less inconvenient once your kids have returned to school in the fall. 5. Winter preparations If you complete projects like replacing windows, improving insulation and upgrading the heating system in the fall, you can make sure your home is ready for winter. Plus, you’ll have a stylish new space for the holidays. In addition, postponing your renovation projects until the fall will allow your family to enjoy backyard summer weather without the constant noise and bustle of a major renovation project.
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Fall FOR
A NEW PAIR
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