H&d feb 2015 by Southern Lakes Newspapers

Homes & Design

February 2015

 Home Services  Home F urnishings  Home Improvements  Home Decor

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HOMES & DESIGN

February 2015

Page 3

EXTERIOR

Winter worries

How to safely remove snow from your roof

he beauty of winter and ice load that ded snow e e n if landscapes is not comes with the winter r to c a Call a contr foremost on the minds of season. However, au warns re u B ss ne er Busi homeowners who have roofs full homes that have T he Bett up on the roof if you g in o g of heavy snow and ice. What may undergone unapproved st in ow with a n a sn ag e th ve o ly rem putable renovations, or re seem beautiful elsewhere can cause a ll a ca n not safe C l. similar too anxiety when one’s home is under a those where loadice rake or o big. the job is to if r o precipitation onslaught. bearing walls have contract Excessive snow loads on a roof been removed from can cause the roof to leak or even the interior may be susceptible to depth, collapse. The weight, and not the catastrophic roof collapses. of the snow is what determines if it needs to be Another problem homeowners face this time of removed from the roof. Fluffy snow may not be year is ice dams, which occur when snow on the problematic, as it can take around seven times as roof melts slightly and then refreezes, forming thick much dry snow to equal the weight of wet snow. portions of ice usually at the edges of the roof by After a snowstorm, go outside and lift a few the gutters. Ice dams can divert melting snow in and shovelfuls of snow. If it’s back-breaking work, then under roofing shingles instead of through gutters the snow on your roof may be dangerous. Homes built to code can typically handle the See WINTER WORRIES – Page 9

SUBMITTED PHOTO Homes & Design

Cold-weather precautions Tips for preventing and treating frozen pipes

Frozen water pipes and leaks can quickly lead to disaster. Water damage can result in costly repairs, some of which may not be covered by home insurance policies. Preventing frozen pipes and leaks is essential once the mercury starts to dip. Water expands when it freezes, and if it expands enough, it can cause pipes to burst. Yet, burst pipes do not usually occur directly where the ice is forming. Rather, the ice increases water pressure buildup elsewhere in the pipe, typically between the faucet or spigot and the ice blockage. Therefore, adequately protecting the entire length of pipe during cold spells can be necessary. Any home built in colder climates should have its pipes located on the inside of building insulation. However, pipes in crawl spaces, attics and basements, as well as those located on outside walls, are vulnerable to freezing. To prevent frozen pipes and bursting, follow these tips:

•

Homes & Design February 2015 Published by Southern Lakes Newspapers LLC 1102 Ann St., Delavan, WI 53115 (262) 728-3411

Heavy snow accumulation on the roof can lead to problems like leaks or even complete roof collapse. Homeowners may need to remove snow from the roof after a big snowstorm.

Homes & Design

•See FROZEN PIPES – Page 9

For advertising opportunities, call (262) 728-3411 or email vicki@southernlakesnewspapers.com EDITOR IN CHIEF: Edward Nadolski SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR: Tracy Ouellette EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Sharon Soch CREATIVE/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Sue Z. Lange ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Vicki Vanderwerff

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February 2015

HOMES & DESIGN

Attention: Local Area Home Owners to get Opportunity of the Year…

Frustrated Contractor is “Giving Away” $2,673 Furnaces for $941 with Off-Season Central Air… (This is the ”Hottest AND Coolest Deal of the Year” … especially if your furnace is over 10 years old)

No Obligation Even after I completely explain the installation, there is absolutely no obligation. If you decide you don’t want to take advantage of the spectacular savings… that’s okay. I will give you a surprise gift worth $60 because you are kind enough to read this ad and give me a chance to solve my problem. I want you to think well of Master Services Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, even if you don’t buy. You Can Buy With NO Cash You don’t even have to pay me right away. I have set up a bank rate financing plan. I even decided not to mark up the interest rate like some companies do. Consider this. If you decide to make monthly investments instead of paying cash the entire amount of your payments might be more than offset by the savings on your utility bills. It’s like “having your cake and eating it too”. Ironclad Guarantee I’m so confident that you will save at least 25% on your cooling and heating bills (I’m projecting more like 35% +), that I will pay you Double The Difference for two years if you don’t! I’ll show you exactly how this works. There is no way you can lose. Your lower utility bills will help you save big. And I will even double your savings if you save less than 25%. If these premier systems were not among the best on the market, I couldn’t afford to make such a promise. Why This Offer Can’t Last You must act before April 15th. Here are two reasons why. 1. I only have a limited amount of pieces of equipment. When all of the air conditioners are sold and all the furnaces are “given” away, that’s it. There are no more at this price. 2. If I have any of these systems that are left on April 15th (although I doubt I will), this offer still ends. Here’s why. The only reason I am making this virtually no-profit (for me) offer is because of the “killer months”. My business always picks up about May first. Since these furnaces cost me so little, I can sell them at 2014 prices next November and December and still come out ahead. Give me a call now at 2482103 and I will set an appointment for your no-obligation survey.

192835

Yes, it’s absolutely true. You can actually replace your old (and probably very inefficient) furnace and air conditioner as a package for at least $1,732 less than you would have to pay at any other time. Let me explain. Every year, the months of January, February, March and April can “Kill” my business. I end up losing a ton of money during these “Killer” months and it can take me the remaining eight months to make up for them. And I’m looking for the same thing to happen this year. My Problem Is Your Opportunity I’ve decided to give up trying to make a profit during the “killer” months. If I can only minimize my losses during January, February, March and April I will come out ahead in the other eight months. Here’s how this (admittedly daring) offer came about. Every year, the big manufacturers of air conditioners have to guess how many to build to meet the demand. Of course, they’re never exactly right. So, they always have some inventory they must hold over until the next summer season. I went to one of my distributors and they allocated 44 premier air conditioners and furnaces. And, because of the quantity and time of year, I was able to buy them at drastically reduced, dirt cheap, out-of-season prices. They are brand new 2014 models. And they are NOT the seconds or “blems” or standard “builder” models. They are factory-fresh, premier air conditioners and furnaces and have a full factory warranty. Here’s How You Can Get A Furnace For Peanuts By putting this furnace and air conditioner package together (then “Jaw-Boning” the distributor) and committing to a do-or-die purchase agreement of these systems, I was able to buy both the furnace and the air conditioner for less than anyone should have a right to pay! So, if you buy one of these normal new, premier air conditioners, I am “giving” you the furnace and all I ask for is the $941 it costs to have your furnace installed. Here’s How Just call me at 262-248-2103 anytime. We will come out and measure your home (and determine the availability of the proper size). Don’t forget, I only have a limited amount of matched systems. When they are gone, this remarkable offer ends also. I will show you the real world price on the air conditioner that fits your home. Then, I will show you the substantial savings now. And it will include all labor and installation materials. Nothing is left out. The Concept Is Simple Really By letting you win big now, I will win at the end of the year. I’m betting that if I make you an offer that is “irresistible” (at least it should be if your furnace or air conditioner is over 10 years old) and I barely mark it up above the price I paid, I will accomplish two things: 1. I will cover my rent, utilities, insurance and taxes in the “killer” months. 2. I can pay my professional staff and technicians to work instead of paying them to sit at home. If I can accomplish these two objectives, I will minimize my losses and the rest of the year, I can be a winner.

Keith Nissen King of Comfort

HOMES & DESIGN

February 2015

Page 5

INTERIOR

Little rooms, big impact Area professionals offer tips to brighten small spaces

Many dwellings have areas with few windows or light fixtures, oftentimes making the space feel small and dark. A few simple tweaks can brighten and lighten, transforming overlooked parts of the home into inviting nooks. Members of Milwaukee/NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry), the area’s leading home improvement and remodeling industry resource, offer guidance on making the most of all the areas in your living space. A ‘bigger’ bathroom “You can never have too much space,”

SUBMITTED PHOTO Homes & Design

Open glass panels and fixtures with a small “footprint” like this pedestal sink and shower in this design from the QRS Group, in Pewaukee, can help make the bathroom seem larger than it is.

Jake Ruiz, owner of the QRS Group, Pewaukee, said. “But bathrooms tend to be one of the smallest areas in the home. Consider fixtures that take up less of a ‘footprint.’ Wall-mounted sinks, for example, create a more spacious feel.” “A big trend in master bathrooms is custom showers that don’t have full glass panels,” notes Jeff Brady, principal partner-architectural designer of JA & Company, Brookfield. “By not extending the shower walls and door to the ceiling, the additional inches at the top help let light in.” Using small lights, particularly in the bathroom, is important, because a larger light source can actually make the room feel cramped. “Lighting is one of the biggest things that homeowners overlook,” Ruiz said. “The smaller, the better. And for any lighting project, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from a Milwaukee/NARI certified professional.”

Improve the kitchen If you have enough height, Brady recommends also leaving “voids” above your kitchen wall cabinets to open up the area. Below, installing under-cabinet lighting is effective for illuminating tasks. “Task lighting serves more of a purpose rather than mood lighting or the ordinary night light – and it still makes your kitchen feel bigger than it is,” Brady said. Fluorescent lighting strips are commonly added to cabinets and closets, but white LEDs are also a clean choice. According to Brady, “LEDs are nice because they don’t ‘heat up’ the space like conventional lights do. Dimmable LED fixtures are relatively affordable. You can use LEDs can lights, also known as LED recessed lighting, in any room, but they work well in kitchens to minimize the heat gain while you’re cooking.” Light when entertaining “If you’d prefer not to use recessed lights

and want to keep to a more traditional style, wall sconces can be complementary and decorative while still brightening up a room,” says Brady. For added interest, Ruiz suggests using niches with accent lighting to make the space feel more relaxed and free of clutter. Creating shadowing on pieces of art by lighting appropriately can make a room look completely different at night versus during the day. “Shadowing will transform the area in terms of ‘color temperature,’” notes Ruiz. “Sunlight is a cooler color temperature, while interior lighting tends to be warmer. Incorporating more interior lighting will make any size space more inviting and cozy.” For more information or to receive a free copy of an annual membership roster listing all members, and the booklet, Milwaukee/NARI’s Remodeling Guide, call (414) 771-4071 or visit www. milwaukeenari.org.

The potentially harmful effects

of mold in your home

The presence of mold in a home is a sight few homeowners want to see. In addition to being unsightly, mold found in a home can be unhealthy. While certain cleaners may prove effective at removing mold, homeowners who want to remove existing mold growths and prevent future growths may benefit from gaining a greater understanding of mold and why it grows inside homes. What is mold? Mold is a blanket term used to describe

fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. Many species of mold exist, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that some estimates suggest there may be more than three hundred thousand different species of mold. Common indoor molds include cladosporium, penicillium, alternaria, and aspergillus. Which conditions promote mold growth? Homeowners may notice that mold

tends to grow in specific areas of their homes but not in others, and that’s because molds grow best in certain conditions. Warm, damp and humid conditions, such as those found in poorly ventilated bathrooms and basements, make ideal breeding grounds for mold.

What are the effects of mold exposure? Molds are a natural and resilient part of the environment, but mold growth indoors should be addressed and avoided. Mold

spores are tiny and invisible to the naked eye, and when these spores attach to wet surfaces, they begin to grow. Once these spores begin to grow, they can then affect people in various ways. Roughly a decade ago, the Institute of Medicine found sufficient evidence to support a link between exposure to indoor mold and respiratory tract issues, such as coughing and wheezing in people who were otherwise healthy. The same

•See MOLD – Page 12

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February 2015

HOMES & DESIGN

INTERIOR Before making improvements, homeowners should determine if a given project will provide a solid return on their investment. Finding space to install an extra bathroom or redoing the kitchen/ living areas in a home can be a worthwhile investments.

d e d d a ue Renovations designed to increase l home’s appeal and worth a v

Homeowners choose renovation projects for a variety of reasons. Although many improvements are made to increase functionality and comfort of a home, several others are seen as worthwhile investments. These investments can add up to a higher resale value when the time comes to sell a home. Certain projects have a history of providing a greater return on homeowners’ investments than others. The following renovation tips can add beauty to your home and generate great returns when you put the home up for sale.

INVEST IN THE KITCHEN

Kitchen remodels are a safe bet when it comes to putting money into improving a home. Residents tend to spend a great deal of time in the kitchen, but a dated, poorly functioning kitchen can detract from the value of a home, even if the rest of the home is in good shape. It’s possible to recoup between 60 and 120 percent of your kitchen remodel investment, especially if the kitchen matches up well with the rest of your home. Homeowners should know that a deluxe renovation may not be necessary, as relatively moderate improvements can create a whole new look for a kitchen.

LOOK TO PAINT

One of the least expensive improvement materials, but one that has a significant impact, is paint. Neutral, modern

SUBMITTED PHOTO Homes & Design

colors can easily liven up any space. If you paint with lowVOC paint, you also can advertise an eco-friendly home, which is very desirable these days.

ADD A BATHROOM

Multiple bathrooms are an attractive selling point, particularly in older homes that may not have been equipped with more than one bathroom. Finding extra space for a bathroom can be tricky, but consider closets, areas under stairs or even taking some space away from another room. Popular home-improvement television channel HGTV advises that half-bathrooms require at least 18 square feet of space, while full baths need 30 to 35 square feet for a stand-up shower or bathtub.

RENOVATE THE HVAC

Aesthetic improvements aren’t the only ones that add value to a home. Many home buyers are eager to purchase a home that has a new heating and cooling system, as buyers understand that furnaces and air conditioning units are substantial investments that can last for years. Other improvements, such as adding attic insulation or replacing older windows and doors with more energy efficient options, also are smart bets.

ADD ILLUMINATION

A dark home is a dreary home. Adding light can

mean including more overhead and accent lighting. Under-cabinet task lighting is a nice touch. Inclusion of skylights and sun tubes can bring natural light into rooms that may not have south- or west-facing windows.

PUT ON A DECK

Outdoor living spaces have become more desirable, especially as the “staycation” has grown in popularity. Decks and patios can make backyards more appealing. The scope of your investment will depend on the size of the deck and design. Doing the work yourself can cut the cost of decks in half, but only if you have the specific tools or experience to tackle such a project.

IMPROVE CURB APPEAL

Adding attractive landscaping and freshening up the entryway to a home can add considerable value to your home, as buyers judge homes by their exteriors. Completely renovated interiors may never be seen if buyers pass up your home because of a less attractive exterior. Classy, subtle changes, like well-placed shrubbery and a green lawn, can work wonders. An inviting front door and well-lit entryway also add curb appeal to a home.

(METRO CREATIVE)

HOMES & DESIGN

Remodeling spending increases as renovations are on the rise

SUBMITTED PHOTO Homes & Design

Measure twice, cut once Failing to understand the scope of the project Some homeowners don’t realize just how big a commitment they have made until they get their hands dirty. But understanding the scope of the project, including how much demolition and reconstruction is involved and how much time a project will take can help homeowners avoid some of the stress that comes with renovation projects. For example, a bathroom renovation may require the removal of drywall, reinforcement of flooring to accommodate a new bathtub or shower enclosure and the installation of new plumbing and wiring behind walls. So such a renovation is far more detailed than simply replacing faucets. Not establishing a budget Homeowners must develop a project budget to ensure their projects do not drain their finances. If your budget is so inflexible that you can’t afford the materials you prefer, you may want to postpone the project and save more money so you can eventually afford to do it right. Without a budget in place, it is easy to overspend, and that can put you in financial peril down the line. Worrying about coming up with money to pay for materials and labor also can induce stress. Avoid the anxiety by setting a firm budget.

Page 7

INTERIOR

Choosing paint colors and fabrics for a renovation is usually something homeowners can handle on their own. When tackling larger projects such as installing new flooring or moving wall, hiring a contractor to do the work might be a good idea.

Home improvement projects can turn a house into a home. Homeowners plan scores of renovations to transform living spaces into rooms that reflect their personal tastes and comforts. Homeowners going it alone may find things do not always go as planned. In fact, a Harris Interactive study found that 85 percent of homeowners say remodeling is a more stressful undertaking than buying a home. But homeowners about to embark on home improvement projects can make the process go more smoothly by avoiding these common pitfalls.

February 2015

Common mistakes made on home renovation projects

Making trendy improvements Homeowners who plan to stay in their homes for the long run have more free reign when it comes to renovating their homes. Such homeowners can create a billiards room or paint a room hot pink if they so prefer. However, if the goal is to make improvements in order to sell a property, overly personal touches may make a property less appealing to prospective buyers. Trends come and go, and improvements can be expensive. If your ultimate goal is to sell your home, opt for renovations that will look beautiful through the ages and avoid bold choices that may only appeal to a select few buyers.

In the not-so-distant past, home improvement projects all but came to a halt, as homeowners were weary about investing any money into fixer-uppers. But the tides have changed dramatically in recent months, and homeowners are again ready and willing to invest big dollars into home renovations. Renewed confidence in the economy and an upswing in the real estate market have contributed to the remodeling frenzy. In early 2014, the Joint Center for Housing Statistics of Harvard University forecasted nearly $150 billion in major remodeling spending over the year. JCHS said as homeowners gain more confidence in the housing market they’re more likely to undertake home improvements they would have avoided in recent years. While the numbers do not yet match pre-recession remodeling spending, the number of construction projects has steadily trended upward. According to the National Association of Home Builders, as of November 2014, a greater number of remodelers reported higher business activity than during the previous quarter. Remodeling spending has been gradually climbing back up from the all-time low it reached in 2009. This growth in home renovations has led to more jobs for carpenters, plumbers, painters, electricians, and other construction workers. In Massachusetts alone, a recovery in overall construction employment has led to a gain of about 18,000 jobs during the past four years.

•See REMODELING – Page 8

Forgetting to properly vet all workers It is important to vet your contractor, but don’t forget to vet potential subcontractors as well. Failing to do so can prove a costly mistake. Contractors often look to subcontractors to perform certain parts of a job, and it is the responsibility of homeowners to vet these workers. Expecting everything to go as planned Optimism is great, but you also should be a realist. Knowing what potentially could go wrong puts you in a better position to handle any problems should they arise. The project might go off without a hitch, but plan for a few hiccups along the way. Overestimating DIY abilities Overzealous homeowners may see a renovation project in a magazine or on television and immediately think they can do the work themselves. Unless you have the tools and the skills necessary to do the work, tackling too much can be problematic. In the long run, leaving the work to a professional may save you money. Home improvements can be stressful, but homeowners can lessen that stress by avoiding common renovation mistakes. (METRO CREATIVE)

SUBMITTED PHOTO Homes & Design

Now is a good time for the real estate and home improvement sectors, as homeowners have renewed their fervor for making home renovations, both to increase comfort in their homes and make their homes more buyer-friendly.

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February 2015

HOMES & DESIGN

DECOR

Color me happy The relationship between paint and mood Painting is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to transform the look of a space. The colors homeowners choose for their walls can give rooms their own unique feel and even affect the moods of the people within them. Finding the right shade for a bedroom or kitchen involves more than just selecting the first color that catches your eye. Design experts and psychologists alike say it may be worthwhile to choose a color that helps you feel good rather than just following design trends. The paint color you pick may add energy to a space or create a tranquil retreat where you can unwind at the end of the day.

Blue

To create a spa-like environment and a more serene space, look to shades of blue in soft variations. Cool blues are soothing colors that can help lower stress levels and promote sleep. That’s why blue is a frequent fixture in bedrooms and bathrooms. Just be advised that too much blue can make a room appear cold and stark, so balance out blue with some warmer accents.

Orange

Many people do not immediately consider bright orange for their homes, but when used as an accent shade, orange can really brighten up a home. Orange is considered a shade that expands creativity and imparts a youthful appeal to a space. Consider an orange accent wall or a burst of color with orange throw pillows. If pumpkin orange is a little too bold for you, tone it down by choosing a more pastel, peachy hue, which SUBMITTED PHOTOS Homes & Design is equally warm and energizing. Cheer up the dreary winter months with a

Red

Red stimulates energy and appetite, which is why the shade is so popular in restaurants and home dining spaces. Red is a good choice for social gathering rooms but may not be the wisest choice for a bedroom, as the color may prove overstimulating.

Green

Green can evoke composure and tranquility and works in any room of the house. Since green is the primary color of nature, it also works well for those people who want to bring some of the outdoors inside and work with the fresh starts and new growth that green can inspire. To make green feel less subdued and sleepy, work with its complementary opposite, red, by using a few bold red accents here and there to balance out the tranquility of green.

Purple

People have long related purple to royalty, and this dramatic color can add a formal, regal aspect to a home depending on the hue. Purple also may help stimulate the creative side of the brain. In paler shades of lavender, purple can seem almost ethereal and spiritual. Some designers suggest avoiding purple

painting project designed to brighten the interior spaces of your home. Splashes of bold, bright colors can liven up a room and your mood.

in a bedroom because that is a place you want your brain to rest rather than be stimulated.

Yellow

Few colors are more vibrant than yellow, which can help stimulate conversation and make thoughts more focused. A luminous shade of yellow is an ideal way to make any space more welcoming and bright. Just use it sparingly, as too much yellow may not be a good thing. Yellow accents mixed with touches of purple can offer the balance needed to prevent yellow rooms from overwhelming residents and guests. Home decorators should keep in mind that colors can be blended to create the desired environment. A color scheme based on complementary colors, or those opposite on the color wheel, may fit. Otherwise, analogous color schemes, or those colors that are next to one another on the color wheel, can create a variation that suits your design needs. (METRO CREATIVE)

• REMODELED Continued from Page 7 The Home Improvement Research Institute expects an additional 5.8 percent sales growth in home improvement spending in 2015. States that showed the highest levels of home improvement spending in 2014 are likely to continue to hold the top spots through 2015, and the National Association of Home Builders says these areas include the District of Columbia, Connecticut, New Jersey, Maryland, Massachusetts, and areas of southern California. Americans are not the only ones increasing their home spending.

According to reports released by Moneris Solutions Corporation, Canada’s largest credit and debit card processor, purchases at home improvement stores rose by 8.49 percent over the same period last year, and spending on plumbing and heating equipment and electrical contractors climbed by 5.14 percent and 5.08 percent, respectively. Spending patterns indicate that homeowners are investing in DIY projects as well as seeking specialized work provided by professional contractors.

(METRO CREATIVE)

Page 9

February 2015

HOMES & DESIGN

EXTERIOR

Options abound when laying a new driveway A driveway is more than just a place to park your car. The right driveway material can add considerable curb appeal to your home, increasing its resale value along the way. Homeowners have many options at their disposal when choosing a driveway material, and the right material for one home may not be the best fit for another. The following is a rundown of popular driveway surfaces and what homeowners can expect of each of them.

BRICK Many homeowners believe brick driveways provide the most aesthetic appeal, and it’s hard to argue with the beauty of brick driveways and walkways. Brick driveways come in various colors and hues, and many homeowners opt to have the color of their brick driveways match their landscaping, which further adds to curb appeal. But that curb appeal is only appealing if the driveway is designed and installed corSUBMITTED PHOTO Home & Design rectly, and homeowners can expect to pay a When replacing an existing driveway, homeowners have an array of new surpremium for that, as brick driveway installaface materials to choose from, and each material has its pros and cons. tion is very labor intensive.

• WINTER WORRIES Continued from Page 3 and downspouts. A common contributor to ice dams is inadequate ventilation and insulation in attics. Heat from the interior of the home that rises into the attic can cause the roof to warm up enough to melt the snow. This is easily remedied by having ample insulation and ensuring proper ventilation of the attic to maintain temperatures cool enough to prevent underside melting of snow. Signs of a problem If you experience any leaks from the ceiling or notice water coming down walls, a roof leak from excess snow or ice dams may be the culprit. Snow that is too heavy may create cracks in plaster and drywall and cause sagging that affects the framework of interior doorways. If you hear creaking or popping sounds, immediately exit the house, as these are strong indicators of an imminent collapse. Clearing the roof The Better Business Bureau warns

against going up on the roof if you cannot safely remove the snow with an ice rake or similar tool. You should not jeopardize your health by trying to remove snow and ice. Confirm that contractors who remove snow have current liability and worker’s compensation insurance before hiring them. Contractors will charge anywhere from $60 to $300 per hour to remove snow from the roof. Always inquire in advance as to what a fee covers. Even after snow is removed, there’s no guarantee it will not accumulate again. Keep in mind that some snow and ice removal remedies can invalidate the warranty on recently installed roof shingles. This is something that must be weighed before proceeding with snow removal. Home insurance policies may or may not cover the cost of snow removal and damage. Call your insurance company to find out what your policy covers. Keep good records for the cost of all repairs to see if you can be reimbursed.

GRAVEL Gravel driveways may not be as commonplace as they once were, but this cost effective driveway material is still an option. Homeowners who live in regions with mild winters without snow might benefit most from gravel driveways, which can be difficult to negotiate when shoveling snow.

Gravel tends to be the least expensive driveway material to install, but professionals may recommend that a new top layer of gravel be laid once or twice a year to replace material lost to wind and everyday usage.

ASPHALT Asphalt remains a popular driveway material, thanks in large part to its practicality and ease of installation. Unlike other driveway surface materials, asphalt is available in just one color, black, and that lack of versatility has led many homeowners to consider other options. But asphalt remains an affordable driveway surface material that’s relatively easy to repair. Cracks and holes in asphalt are somewhat common, but resealing such blemishes once every three to five years is typically enough to maintain the appearance of an asphalt driveway.

CONCRETE Concrete driveways are popular thanks in large part to their affordability and aesthetic appeal. Concrete can be susceptible to extremely cold weather, but many homeowners prefer concrete because of its versatility. Concrete can be stamped or dyed to provide a unique look, which can increase curb appeal. Concrete can be expensive to maintain, particularly when the material cracks. In addition, gas and oil spills are more noticeable on a concrete surface than other driveway surface materials. (METRO CREATIVE)

(METRO CREATIVE)

• FROZEN PIPES Continued from Page 3 • Drain water from outdoor hoses and close inside valves supplying water to outdoor faucets – keep the external hose bib open to let water drain and to allow for expansion should any water become trapped; • Inspect pipes in areas that are unheated – insulate any pipes located in these areas; • Heat tape, pipe sleeves, heat cables, and similar materials can be used to protect exposed water pipes from freezing – even newspaper can help insulate pipes; • Keep garage doors closed when water supply lines are located in the garage; • Open cabinets indoors to allow heat to reach pipes underneath sinks. • Seal leaks that allow cold air inside – look for air leaks around electrical

wiring and vents that are in close proximity to pipes; • If you will be away from home, keep the thermostat set to no lower than 55 F (12 C) – have a neighbor check on the house periodically to make sure no pipes are freezing; • Keep water trickling out of a faucet when temperatures are very cold – this will relieve pressure inside of the pipe and could prevent bursting if an ice blockage occurs; • If you suspect a pipe has frozen, warm air from a hair dryer can help thaw it out – never try to thaw a pipe with an open flame; • If a pipe bursts, turn off the water from the main shut-off valve; and • Call a plumber if pipe problems are beyond your expertise. (METRO CREATIVE)

SUBMITTED PHOTO Homes & Design

Wisconsin’s harsh winters can wreak havoc with a home’s plumbing. Pipes in crawl spaces, attics and basements, as well as those located on outside walls, are vulnerable to freezing.

Page 10

February 2015

HOMES & DESIGN

Plumbing and Heating

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Page 11

February 2015

HOMES & DESIGN

Milwaukee/NARI presents annual Wisconsin remodeler of the year awards The Milwaukee chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry presented its 2014 Local Achievement Awards and the Wisconsin Remodeler of the Year Awards Jan. 16, at the association’s Awards Night held at The InterContinental Hotel, Milwaukee. Local Achievement Awards are presented to association members in recognition of their achievements and commitment to the organization. Several of the awards are presented in honor of former Milwaukee/NARI members who had significant achievements within the industry and community. The winners of the 2014 Milwaukee/NARI Local Achievement Awards were: • Gordy Ziglinski “Spirit of Education” Award – Chris Egner, MCR, UDCP, Chris Egner Design-Build-Remodel/Four Seasons Sunrooms, New Berlin; • Mary Fox Hagner Lifetime Achievement Award – Howard Rowell, Royal Chimney Service, Wauwatosa; • Professionalism Award – Dean Pipito, Aquatica, a division of Dean Pipito Waterfeatures, LLC, Wales; • Bill Bobrowitz Image Award – David Pekel, MCR, UDCP, CAPS, Pekel Construction & Remodeling, Inc., Wauwatosa; • Affiliate Organization of the Year – Valley Exposition Service, Inc., Pewaukee; • Distributor of the Year – ABC Supply Company, Inc., West Allis; and • Media Outlet of the Year – The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Milwaukee. The awards program also featured the presentation of the 2014 Wisconsin Remodeler of the Year Awards to Milwaukee/NARI members in the following categories:

Remodeling

• Residential Kitchen Under $30,000 – AB&K Bath and Kitchen, Gold, Greenfield; Design Tech Remodeling, Gold, Mequon; J2 Builders, Silver, Milwaukee; Mukwonago Remodeling, Silver, Mukwonago; Owner Assisted Remodeling/Renovators Ltd., Silver, Elm Grove; and Mukwonago Remodeling, Bronze; • Residential Kitchen $30,000 to $60,000 – Connor Remodeling & Design, Gold, Menomonee Falls; Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling, Gold, Milwaukee; J2 Builders, Gold; Owner Assisted Remodeling/Renovators Ltd. (two awards), Gold; AB&K Bath and Kitchen (two awards), Silver; Callen Construction, Silver, Muskego; Carmel Builders, Silver, Menomonee Falls; Design Tech Remodeling, Silver; DG Remodeling, Silver, Pewaukee; JM Remodeling & Construction, Silver, Brown Deer; Mukwonago Remodeling (two awards), Silver; Callen Construction, Bronze; and Kowalske Kitchen & Bath, Bronze, Delafield; • Residential Kitchen $60,000 to $100,000 – GMH Construction, Gold, Pewaukee; Diane Nelson Interiors (two awards), Gold, Wauwatosa; A. Fillinger, Silver, Milwaukee; Callen Construction, Silver; Mukwonago Remodeling (two awards), Silver; and Urban Herriges & Sons, Silver, Mukwonago; • Residential Kitchen $100,000 to $150,000 – Design Group Three, Gold, Glendale; AB&K Bath and Kitchen, Silver; Cream City Construction, Silver, Milwaukee; and J2 Builders, Bronze; • Residential Kitchen Over $150,000 – Bartelt. The Remodeling Resource, Gold, Delafield; • Residential Bath Under $25,000 – AB&K Bath and Kitchen, Silver; • Residential Bath $25,000 to $50,000 – Connor Remodeling & Design, Gold; Design Tech Remodeling, Gold; Owner Assisted Remodeling/Renovators Ltd., Gold; RJ Builders, Gold, Shorewood; Schmidt Custom Floors, Waukesha/Connor Remodeling & Design (team entry), Gold; AB&K Bath and Kitchen, Silver; Carmel Builders, Silver (two awards); Cream City Construction, Silver; and Pekel Construction & Remodeling, Silver, Wauwatosa; • Residential Bath $50,000 to $75,000 – AB&K Bath and Kitchen, Silver; and S.J. Janis Company, Silver, Wauwatosa; • Residential Bath $75,000 to $100,000 – AB&K Bath and Kitchen, Silver; and QRS Group, Silver, Pewaukee; • Residential Bath Over $100,000 – RJ Builders, Bronze; • Basement Under $50,000 – J2 Builders, Silver; and S.J. Janis Company, Bronze;

•See AWARDS – Back Page

SUBMITTED PHOTO Homes & Design

Cutting the mounting clutter in your home doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. Take it one step at a time and before you know it, things are back in shape.

Take back your home How to cut the clutter and reclaim your living space

You’ve reached your breaking point. You’ve tripped over the same thing in the living room too many times. Now you’ve picked it up to finally put it away and you realize – you have nowhere to put it. You have too much clutter in your home. So what do you do? How do you decide where to start so you can reduce the clutter in your home and make your walkways safe once more? Getting started is easier than you think. If you want to take control of clutter, get a few boxes – start with one for each room in your home and begin organizing one room at a time. Begin this initiative by removing everything on top of your cabinets, tables and in bookcases, and then place it all in a box, says Keith McCleary, academic director of Interior Design at The Art Institute of York – Pennsylvania. If there are other random accessories in the room, remove those, too. Keep just the basic furnishings. Now sit with the room in its simplest form for a short time. “In room design, make good decisions about what you choose to put in the room and, often more importantly, in what you choose to leave out,” McCleary says. “Simplicity and clean lines make a room feel livable, and that’s what it’s really all about: comfortable living.” Think about the kind of focal point you’re trying to create. How should you orchestrate this space and show off your special pieces in terms of size, scale, color and texture? After a day or two has passed, go back to the box and look for items that define your personality, or will be noticed by guests visiting your home. “Ask yourself: when is enough, enough?” says McCleary. “Each piece of furniture in the room can function to complement. Accessories and works of art should contrast.”

When you look at your well-designed room, you should see positive elements, as well as appreciate the possibility for negative space by removing unnecessary pieces that don’t add to the design composition. Interior design students at The Art Institute of York – Pennsylvania are taught to help their clients step back and ask themselves: Is it finished now? You can err when you go shopping and purchase nice pieces for your home, because before long you may have accumulated too many of those nice things. Take a hard look at some of those things you don’t really want or need; it might be time to share that stuff with your local Goodwill. Sometimes, you might think you have to keep memorabilia or outdated gifts from Aunt Ethel in your home all the time. “Not so,” says McCleary. “It’s perfectly acceptable to remove those items when you do your box exercise.” If you get a call from Auntie when she plans her next visit, head to the attic and put those old Beanie Babies she gave you when you were a fanatical collector decades ago on a shelf in your den – temporarily. She’ll be happy for the gesture. When she leaves, feel free to put them back in the box of memories until her next visit. After you complete this exercise in each room in your home, you’ll notice that the clutter has disappeared. Now you can recognize how attractive the remaining items are in that same space. This initiative takes determination and focus, but when you’ve completed the exercise, your focus can be on the lovely space you’ve recreated. To learn more about The Art Institutes schools, visit www.artinstitutes.edu/nz.

(BPT)

Page 12

February 2015

HOMES & DESIGN

• MOLD Continued from Page 5

report found that mold may trigger asthma symptoms among people with asthma and hypersensitivity pneumonitis, a disease in which the lungs are inflamed when a person breathes in certain dusts he or she is allergic to, in people susceptible to that condition. Some people who do not have a preexisting condition can still be sensitive to molds. When exposed to mold, such people may experience symptoms like nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, or skin irritation. How can exposure to mold be decreased at home? Adequate ventilation is arguably homeowners’ best friend with regard to reducing mold exposure at home. Control humidity levels in areas of the home that tend to be warm and humid, such as the kitchen and bathroom. Install an exhaust fan in the kitchen and bathroom and a window in the bathroom if yours does not

already have one. The CDC recommends that humidity levels be no higher than 50 percent throughout the day, and an air conditioner and dehumidifier can help you keep indoor humidity levels in check, especially during the summer when humidity levels tend to be their highest of any time during the year. When renovating your home, remove any existing carpeting from bathrooms and basements and toss out soaked carpets or upholstery as well. If painting will be part of your home renovation projects, add mold inhibitors to paints prior to application. (METRO CREATIVE)

Mold that grows inside a home is unsightly and potentially unhealthy. Homeowners can take several reactive and proactive steps to reduce existing mold growths and prevent them from returning in the future.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Homes & Design

• AWARDS Continued from Page 11 • Basement $50,000 to $100,000 – Joseph Douglas Homes, Gold (two awards), Menomonee Falls; • Basement Over $100,000 – AB&K Bath and Kitchen, Gold; and Refined Renovations , Gold, Wauwatosa; • Residential Addition Under $100,000 – S.J. Janis Company, Gold; • Residential Addition $100,000 to $250,000 – Joseph Douglas Homes, Gold; S.J. Janis Company, Gold; Owner Assisted Remodeling/Renovators Ltd., Gold; and Urban Herriges & Sons, Silver; • Residential Addition Over $250,000 – Callen Construction, Silver;

• Residential Interior Under $75,000 – Brillo Home Improvements, Silver, Milwaukee; and Owner Assisted Remodeling/Renovators Ltd., Silver; • Residential Interior $75,000 to $150,000 – AB&K Bath and Kitchen, Gold; J2 Builders, Silver; and Mukwonago Remodeling, Silver; • Residential Interior Over $150,000 – Refined Renovations, Gold; and S.J. Janis Company, Silver; • Residential Interior Element Under $30,000 – J2 Builders, Bronze; • Residential Interior Element $30,000 and Over – Connor Remodeling & Design,

Silver; • Entire House Under $250,000 – J2 Builders, Gold; and Vertical Works, Silver, Oak Creek; • Entire House $250,000 to $500,000 – Bartelt. The Remodeling Resource, Gold; and Wallner Builders, Silver, Butler; • Residential Exterior Under $100,000 – JM Remodeling & Construction, Silver; Mukwonago Remodeling, Silver; and Callen Construction, Bronze; • Residential Exterior $100,000 to $200,000 – Allrite Home & Remodeling, Gold, Milwaukee; • Residential Historical Renovation/

Restoration Over $250,000 – Cream City Construction, Gold; • Disaster Restoration – Fire – Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling, Gold; • Landscape Design Under $60,000 – LandCrafters, Gold, New Berlin; and • Landscape Design $60,000 and Over – LandCrafters, Gold; Swimming Pool Services, Silver, Waukesha; and Wandsnider Landscape Architects, Bronze, Menomonee Falls. For more information or to receive a free copy of an annual membership roster and the booklet, Milwaukee/NARI’s Remodeling Guide, visit www.milwaukeenari.org.

Your New Kitchen Starts Right Here! We offer our clients a professional design staff, experienced installers, expert project management with plumbing and electrical by licensed professionals. We tailor our services to match your needs.

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