2014 Spring Home Improvement by Sun Journal

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Friday, March 7, 2014

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Kitchen project: At the home of Bill and Kelly Nadeau By Dan Marois Feature Writer

ill and Kelly Nadeau moved into their Coburn Street home in 1994 and did some home improvement projects four years later. It wasn’t until their 30th wedd ing a n n iversa r y in 2013 t hat they decided to upgrade their kitchen cabinets.

“We decided to give ourselves an anniversary gift,” Bill Nadeau

“We decided to give ourselves an anniversary gift,” said Bill. “It was either get a new house or redo the kitchen. We chose the kitchen.” To spark ideas, the Nadeaus looked at projects their friends and relatives had done to upgrade their own kitchen cabinets and they quizzed them on what features they liked best. “In one house, we liked the storage area we saw under the kitchen island,” said Nadeau, who formerly operated Affordable Eyes, an eyewear shop in Auburn. “In another, we liked the design of the cabinets and drawers. We picked the best of what we saw elsewhere before we created our own design.” One thing Nadeau knew for sure was that he wanted granite countertops for the new cabinets though he thought prices rather steep at first.

“When I looked around, it was $100 per foot with $100 per foot for installation,” said Nadeau, noting that he was forced to look for alternatives. “In time, I found a sale on granite for $45 a foot with free installation. Needless to say, I took that option.” Nadeau said that he was able to save additional dollars by assisting the contractor in disposing of the old cabinets. “He would take them off the wall and I would bring them outside to take away,” said Nadeau.

W hile Nadeau is pleased with the new cabinets he had installed, he did encounter a few delays that added almost a month to completing the project. “We had plans to complete the project right before Thanksgiving,” said Nadeau. “Some of the final work wasn’t done until right after Christmas.”

The Nadeaus' kitchen at the beginning of their renovation project.

In hindsight, he doesn’t blame the contractor for the delays. “I discovered that it takes about two weeks to get the granite

Kitchen page 21 ‰

Submitted photo

This "before" photo shows the gutted kitchen of Bill and Kelly Nadeau.

The "after" photo shows the new kitchen cabinets the Nadeaus chose for their renovation project.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Top 2014 home improvement trends:

Smart homes and home automation By Brandpoint From smartphones to smart cars, technolog y is transf or m i n g v i r t u a l l y e v er y aspect of ou r busy l ives. Technologies not only make life easier while on the go, but new options are quickly simplifying life at home as well. Home automation is prov ing to be a top home improvement trend, making the Jetsons' futuristic lifestyle more realistic than ever before. Some experts are predicting 2014 will be the year of the smart home, but what does t hat mea n to t he average homeowner? The term smart home refers to a house with technology and automated fe at u r e s for t h i ng s l i k e heating, lighting and electronic devices. Automation is becoming the new norm in three main areas of the home. 1. Energy management and environmental impact A home's heating, cooling and electrical systems can be enhanced through home automat ion technolog ies. Boost i ng com for t level s, these technologies make it easier than ever to monitor energ y a nd water usage, helping to reduce a family's environmental footprint as well as their energy bill. Imagine turning your lights on remotely or adjusting the heat so your home is toasty warm by the time you return from work. Home management systems like the Iris Com for t a nd Cont rol K it let you access a nd adjust com for t cont rols f rom your smartphone, tablet or computer.

Monitor and control lights or the thermostat from anywhere with Internet access, making it easy to save energy while away. You can even add water leak detectors to plumbing spaces within the home and receive an alert if the sensor comes in contact with water, helping you to react faster to reduce property damage and water waste. 2. Streamlining the kitchen and cooking processes The kitchen is the heart of the home, so it's no surprise that this area is getting a makeover thanks to technolog y enhancements. From basic motion-sensing faucets that eliminate the need for touching them with messy hands when cooking to appliances that think for you, the kitchen is a key component of a smart home. For example, today's dishwashers clea n faster a nd more efficiently than ever, thanks to technolog y that a s s e s s e s s oi l le vel s a nd adjusts clea n i ng i ntensities. Ovens now come with sensors t hat even ly heat dishes, eliminating the need to rotate pans or use baking stones. Refrigerators even come with

A home's heating, cooling and electrical systems can be enhanced t h r o u g h h o m e a u to m a t i o n technologies. With the latest smart home solutions from Iris, you can check in on your beloved pets while on the go and even options t hat a llow you to provide the dog walker access to your home with just the touch of a button. rapidly cool or freeze foods when they need to be brought dow n to a lower temperature quickly for food safety purposes. 3. Safety and security of a property Security systems have never been more interactive, and new options are surprisingly a f fordable for homeow ners looking to take the first step toward upgrading to a smart home. The Iris Safe and Secure Kit is an inexpensive option that includes motion sensors, a keypad, and door, window and cabinet sensors. A novice DIYer can install the entire system in about an hour. How does this system help your home to think smarter and be more secure? After installation, you will receive an email, text or call when an

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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Three weekend-friendly DIY bathroom upgrades By Brandpoint How much time do you spend in the bathroom each day? Whether it's where you prep the kids for bed or step away for some alone time, the bathroom is one of the most frequently used rooms in the home. It's also one of the best areas in which to invest; renovating or simply updating this space can lead to a 62 percent return on investment. Luckily, making upgrades doesn't have to require a lot of time or money. Follow these simple DIY steps to improve your space on a pocket-friendly budget in just a weekend or less. Swap your showerhead Make bath time more enjoyable by replacing your basic buildergrade showerhead with one that's designed with the whole family in mind. For less than the price of a day at the spa, you can transform your entire shower experience with an In2ition two-in-one shower from Delta Faucet. Featuring H2Okinetic technology, this shower manipulates the flow of water for a luxurious bathing experience that feels like you're getting more water than a standard shower, without actually using more. The embedded hand shower, which can be used simultaneously or separately from the showerhead, makes it easy to accomplish everyday tasks, such as bathing children or washing pets. Plus, it's easy to install. The In2ition simply threads onto your existing shower arm -- no behind-the-wall work required. It is perfect for busy families or home renters who want to enhance their shower experience. Pick out new paint Paint is a cost-effective way to transform your room. Pick colors that express the feeling of the space, whether you want it to seem soothing and calm or lively and welcoming. Rich grays and navy blues can serve as a nice neutral in either case when punctuated with colorful accents, like patterned shower curtains and bright soap pumps or toned down with earthy accessories, like bamboo bath mats and beeswax candles. A quick tip: when working with lighter tones, carry your wall color onto your bathroom's ceiling to help make the space feel larger.

The sink is one of the most important aspects of a kitchen. Yet few homeowners pay attention to it until the time comes to replace it. One shopping trip for a new kitchen sink will uncover dozens of possibilities. Here is a brief overview of Make bath time more enjoyable by replacing your basic builder-grade some of the styles, materials showerhead with one that's designed with the whole family in mind. and designs you might come across. Also, be sure to think beyond just walls. Painting cabinets can help Kitchen sinks come in many make an outdated bathroom look new again. Choose neutral hues, st y les. Some of t he most like cream or charcoal, that work with nearly any color scheme. common include the single bowl, double bowl and farmChange your toilet hou se. Si ng le-bow l si n k s According to a recent survey commissioned by Delta Faucet, have just one basin, making the average American's toilet is used for more than just "going." them ideal for tight spaces. Rather, people are spending their time on the pot checking emails, The basin may be fairly deep, posting updates or surfing the Web. If your toilet is outdated, con- allowing for the washing of sider switching it out for one that's more comfortable and efficient. large pots and pans. Double bowl-sinks have two basins. Configuration varies from two basins of the same depth to one shallow basin and one deep basin. The costliest option of the three, farmhouse sinks take up a large section of Most importantly, said expert craftsman Chip Wade, host of the the counter and may feature HGTV show, Elbow Room, and Delta spokesperson, when it comes one or two basins. They work to making bathroom improvements on a budget, consider func- well for country kitchens. tion before form. Kitchen sinks come in a variety "While decorative accents, like sconces and ceramic cabinet of materials. Stainless steel is knobs, may be beautiful, it is more important to concentrate your one of the most common. The money on the items required to perform a task, like your faucet higher the gauge of the stainor toilet, by investing in materials that will withstand the wear of less steel, the lighter the sink will be. Most household staineveryday use." less steel sinks come in the 1822 gauge range. Delta toilets, available at The Home Depot, are offered in round and elongated shapes and come in chair height dimensions for a comfortable fit. Included pre-installed tank-to-bowl connections promote easy installation, making them an affordable weekend update.

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Ca st i ron si n k s a re fa i rly heavy, making them difficult to install. The bright, glossy enamel finish, however, is very durable and resistant to stains and scratches. Composite sinks are typically made of granite or quartz combined with a resin filler. They are ver y durable and resistant to stains and scratches. Fireclay sinks are made from ceramic clay and feature a tough porcelain enamel. They are one of the most durable sinks on the market but can be expensive, running $500 and up. Kitchen sinks come in many other materials, including glass, granite, marble and copper. Sinks generally come in two designs: top mount and undermount. Top-mount sinks are set into a hole in the countertop, making them fairly easy to install. The rim around the sink helps hold it in place. Under mou nt si n k s a re mounted under the counter, making for a costlier, more difficult installation but easier cleaning. An undermount sink has no rim, allowing homeowners to swipe debris into it with ease. Because they have no rim, undermount sinks must be glued underneath or supported with braces. Holes must also be made in the countertop for faucets. With so many options available, choosing a kitchen sink can be difficult. Take your time, do your homework and you are sure to choose the right one for your kitchen.

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Hardwood flooring trends, a touch of the creative By Brandpoint The recovering U.S. housing market has led to increased demand for certain luxury items, including hardwood flooring. Exciting trends are influencing the marketplace and for today's consumers, t here are more hardwood f looring options than ever before. "S av v y c on s u mer s w a nt variety and flexibility in their flooring choices," said Linda Jova nov ich of t he A merican Hardwood Information C enter. " W it h A mer ic a n hardwood species running t he g a mut of c olor a nd because ha rdwood is a product that can adapt to many different decorating styles and decors, hardwood provides a degree of diversity,

as well as long-term value, that cannot be matched by other flooring materials." From the trend-watchers at independent market research firm, Market Insights Torcivia, and the National Wood Flooring Association, look at what's trending now.

A touch of the creative â&#x20AC;˘ Us i n g mu l t i p l e w o o d species is very popular, typically using one species in the main field of the room, then introducing other contrasting species incorporated as a border or other subtle design elements in the room. * Mixed media incorporates hardwood with other flooring options like stone, tile, carpet

or even metal. This approach often helps to define different seating or functional areas within a large, open space. * Installing wood floors, in a non-linear format, is increasingly popular as well. Custom parquet patterns can achieve this look but even traditional linear floors can accomplish the same goal by installing the linear pattern on a curve. * Consumer preferences are grav itating toward darker species, like walnut, over the more traditional, mediumcolored white and red oak. In ma ny ca ses, however, existing oak floors are being ref inished and stained to achieve t his look w it hout replacing the floor. * Buyers are moving away from the traditiona l 2-1/4

inches strip f loor to wider plank flooring, 3 inches and wider. Random-width planks are also popular. This creates a ver y casua l look, whi le utilizing more of t he raw materials during the manufacturing process. * Distressed flooring: Handscrapi ng t he boa rds w i l l achieve a n a nt iqued look wh i le, at t he sa me t i me, hiding small imperfections t hat ca n appea r in f loori ng over t i me, l i ke sma l l scratches or dents. This distressed effect can a lso be achieved in the factory.

Stains and finishes The National Wood Flooring Association also reports that f looring manufacturers are introducing new lines geared to satisfy the emerg-

ing trends toward gray stains and finishes -- ranging from very subtle to very dark -- and metallic finishes. Metallic finishes incorporate sof t ly shimmering meta llic accents by embedding the metallic materials into the hardwood. The result is a pronounced grain that shimmers soft ly in contrast to the rest of the wood. It is difficult to predict if this trend will catch on long-term but it has become increasingly popular, particularly on the West Coast.

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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

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Ways to make your outdoor living spaces more useful all year By Brandpoint No matter if you live on a coast or in t he Upper Midwest, you can use your outdoor spaces to the fullest in any season by adding a few en ha ncements. Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, it's easy to add features like a seat wall and a fire ring for an outdoor gathering spot, or an outdoor kitchen to create the taste of summer a l l ye a r. A fe w si mple improvements can help you create a space that keeps you outside longer into the night, earlier in the spring and later into the cooler seasons.

A few simple improvements can help you create a space that keeps you outside longer into the night, earlier in the spring and later into the cooler seasons.

1. Add a fire feature. Even in sunny Florida, it can get chilly at night. An outdoor fireplace, fire table, fire pit or chiminea will enhance any outdoor space. A 2013 membership survey by the American Society of Landsc ape A rch itec t s fou nd that 97 percent of respondents saw moderate to high demand for fire pits and fireplaces. "Some of our most popular installations feature fireplaces on a patio or a fire ring surrounded by a seat wall," said Kelly O'Donahue, a landscape designer from Villa Landscapes in St. Paul, Minn. "A fire feature is a useful and beautiful addition to any outdoor living space that you can enjoy in all seasons." 2 . C reate a conven ient outdoor cook i ng space. A dedicated space for the grill close to a door lets you barbecue in any season. A complete outdoor kitchen is even better. "Cook ing outside isn't just for summertime a ny more," sa id O'Donahue. "Grill islands and outdoor kitchens are very popular requests when designing outdoor spaces."

An outdoor fireplace, fire table, fire pit or chiminea will enhance any outdoor space. 3. Add retaining and seat walls. A variety of outdoor ha rdscape feat u res ca n be created with Versa-Lok segmental retaining walls. "You can create a variety of features including stairs, retaining walls, freestanding walls, couches, tiered walls, planters, columns, multi-angled corners and curves," said Matt Singer, director of national sales and training at Versa-Lok. In addition to versatility in design, Versa-Lok's ease of installation makes it a favorite among homeowners and professionals alike. "With the pinning system,

it's easy to create inside and outside curves of differing radiuses and other features, like a seat wall around a fire pit or a windbreak around a patio," said Singer. 4. Add lighting. A variety of lighting options for outdoor spaces exist, and it's a good idea to include lig ht ing design for safety and aesthetics in your landscaping pla ns, says O'Dona hue. Low-voltage LED uplights along walls and structures and downlights along path-

Outdoor Living page 22 â&#x20AC;°

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Your home's major systems By Brandpoint Know when to repair or replace three of your home's major systems -- the furnace, air conditioner and water heater If your furnace, air conditioner or water heater is not working properly, you probably notice it long before you actua lly inspect the appliance itself. You know because those winter mornings are a little too cold, those July days are a little too hot or your morning showers are chillier than normal. All three are signs that these crucial systems a re not r unning as ef f iciently as they once did. You know you need to make a fast decision to eit her repair or replace, but how do you know which is the right choice? Follow these tips from the professionals at Rheem to point you in

the right direction and help you make the best possible decision.

problem is the better choice because the trouble is likely to be smaller.

You should repair if:

• It's still in its youth.

• It's still under warranty.

Every water heater, air condit ioner or f urnace w i l l need repairs at different times depending on usage and env ironment, but if your product is still in its early days, you are probably better off paying for the repairs instead of replacing the system.

Th is may seem obv ious but many people forget to check the warranty when their HVAC or water heating system has an issue. If your appliance is still under warranty, having it repaired is a smart financial decision. You'll be out the cost for the technician's labor but you'll save money compared to buying new. • You've maintained t he product over the years. If you've treated your HVAC system to seasonal tuneups and changed the air filters regularly, and done things like f lushing sediment a nd check i ng t he anode rod in your water heater, repairing an arising

You should replace if: • The previous points are untrue. If your appliance is not under warranty, in the later stages of life and/ or has been subject to poor maintenance, a replacement w i l l proba bl y be necessary.

Systems page 22 ‰

If your furnace, air conditioner or water heater is not working properly, you probably notice it long before you actually inspect the appliance itself.

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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Six hot home design trends for spring 2014 By Brandpoint

• Wood is the new neutral.

toward wood textures pairs the warmth, richness and texture of real wood with limitless design f lex ibility. Think wood-textured textiles, tree-printed wallpapers a nd embossed soaps that look like wood. Installing engineered wood ceilings and wainscoting can bring the unique look of reclaimed wood into any env iron ment -- a n easy do-it-yourself project with striking results.

This season's strong trend

• Ode to the elements.

Does the change of seasons have you itching to refresh a tired, lackluster room? Or maybe you're looking for some small ways to make a big impact on your home's style. W hatever the case, here are some of this season's most buzzed-about trends and how you can incorporate them into your next project.

Mother Nature is inspiring design in a big way this year and homeowners are f i nd i ng u n ique ways to incorporate rocks, minerals and other natural elements into their home's design. Try replacing a common-place item like an alarm clock with one encased within a multi-colored agate. Bring this look to the kitchen with a stainless steel backsplash, or swap out run-of-the-mill ha rdwa re w it h minera linspired drawer pulls and knobs.

• Shore thing. Homeowners, inspired by t he ca lm, care-free attitude of coastal living are all about bringing the beach inside this season. Beachinspired design elements are popping up throughout the home. Weathered and white-washed wood ceilings are a subtle but stunning on-trend addition -- especially when finished w it h i nter ior accent s l i k e de c or a t i v e s he l l s , drift wood furniture and marine-themed prints. • Contrast in texture.

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Trends

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How color affects your exterior home makeover By Brandpoint

ow do you know you've chosen t he r ig ht colors to accent your home's exterior? What colors on windows, doors, trim or shutters can highlight architectural details? Try these tips to help choose an exterior color scheme for your home. Accent your home's style Consider your home's design. Blend existing features, like the roof, stone or brickwork, into a cohesive look. For modern homes, earthy neutra ls complement contrasting sharp lines and the shine of glass and steel. Soft hues, like variations of pastel blue, white, beige or green complement country cottagestyled aesthetics. If you live in an historic home or neighborhood, check with local officials for appropriate colors for your region and your home's architecture. Consider curb appeal When choosing a new exterior color palette, consider

how it will look next to neighboring homes, or blend with your homeowner's association guidelines or other local requirements. If most homes in your neighborhood convey a monochromatic look, consider colors that complement it. Add a boldly painted front door or contrasting window or door trim to help your home stand out w ithout stick ing out. Check the Pella Pinterest board to see how bold red doors i n st a nt ly add c u rb appeal. "Before pa i nt i ng ex ter ior doors, consult a professional and choose a paint or finish w it h good block i ng resista nce," sa id Kat hy K ra f ka Harkema, spokesperson for Pella Windows and Doors. "Choosing a beautiful new factory prefinished window or door saves you time and eliminates the guesswork."

converge on your house. I f you're t h i n k i ng a bout repainting, residing or remodeling your home, it's also a good time to replace windows and doors. Once you've picked the base color for your home, add coordinating or contrasting window and door trim. Pel la Endu raClad ex ter ior finishes come in a variety of color options for aluminumclad wood windows, patio and entry doors. With 27 standard colors and virtually unlimited custom color options, it's easy to find the right color for your home's exterior makeover. Pella can even create a custom color, for a truly unique look for your home's windows and doors. 2014 home ex ter ior color trends ra nge from bold to subdued

Test color on small sample first

For design inspiration, consider the latest exterior color trends:

Sometimes testing the color on your home or its doors can help. If you are torn between options, test paint samples on a small area where colors will

1. Overa l l ex ter ior colors, i nclud i ng crea ms, wh ites, shades of gray and neutral pastels like sky blue, provide a

unique but simple style that is reflective of the homeowner's individual tastes. 2. Trim colors are going to be seen on both ends of the spectrum with neutral pastels or bold, dark statement colors. 3. Boldly painted doors in a vibrant blue, deep red or edgy black add instant interest and curb appeal. Choose a color that best represents your individual design personality.

Add a boldly painted front door or contrasting window or door trim to help your home stand out without sticking out.

Visit Pella Windows and Doors on Houzz for more design inspirat ion a nd Pel la.com to connect with a Pella representative to discuss your home improvement project specifics.

When choosing a new exterior color palette, consider how it will look next to neighboring homes, or blend with your homeowner's association guidelines or other local requirements.

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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Energy efficiency: The trend that's here to stay By Brandpoint Remodeling trends come and go, which is a good thing if you're talking about shag carpet or avocado-colored Formica. But some trends have both staying power and universal appeal, such as the strengthening movement toward homes that are more energy efficient and eco-friendly. "Demand is high for homes that are not only attractive and comfortable, but also that perform well," said Patrick L. O'Toole, editorial director and publisher of Professional Rebuilder magazine. "Today's homeowners are looking for remodeling options that make their homes more energyefficient. Cost-savings over the long-term and minimizing a home's environmental footprint make energy-efficient remodeling very appealing to homeowners. At the same time, they're not willing to sacrifice quality design and beauty." Upgrading a few key systems can help homeowners involved in remodeling projects improve their homes' energy efficiency and operate their households in a more environmentally conscious way. If you're planning some remodeling in the coming year, O'Toole suggested keeping these "green" points in mind: Energy-efficient appliances Household appliances account for nearly 35 percent of a home's energy consumption, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration's Residential Energy Consumption Survey. Reducing the amount of energ y appliances consume can help homeowners lower utility bills and save hundreds of dollars over the lifetime of an appliance. The federal ENERGY STAR program provides consumers with a valuable reference when shopping for energy efficient appliances. A newer designation called "ENERGY STAR Most Efficient" recognizes the top products in their category for efficiency, across categories like appliances, TVs and electronics

from leading brands like LG. This new classification can be especially helpful to environmentally-conscious consumers when they're renovating, according to O'Toole. "Increased awareness of the value of energy efficiency has made an ENERGY STAR rating a 'must' for many homeowners when they're shopping for new appliances," he said. "Replacing older, less efficient appliances with newer, ENERGY STAR-rated ones can both transform the look of a kitchen and ensure long-term cost savings while addressing climate change." Many remodelers today are seeking premium built-in design and innovative technology along with enhanced efficiency, all of which can be found in LG Studio appliances. This highend suite of appliances, from refrigerators to cooktops, and wall ovens to dishwashers emphasizes savvy, state-of-the art design that is as user-friendly as they are efficient. For example, the 42-inch side-by-side refrigerator/freezer is ENERGY STAR-qualified and offers 26.5 cubic feet of capacity, and the SpacePlus Ice System that frees up valuable top-shelf space by moving the icemaker into the refrigerator door. Also, the counter-depth Door-in-Door Refrigerator provides a builtin and seamless look while the unique, Door-in-Door feature offers convenience and easy organization as well as keeping the cool air from escaping the refrigerator by not opening the main door.

Reducing the amount of energy appliances consume can help homeowners lower utility bills and save hundreds of dollars over the lifetime of an appliance. tric water heater with an ENERGY STAR-qualified solar water heating system can reduce hot water costs by 50 percent, EnergyStar.gov noted. These heaters also reduce a home's carbon dioxide emissions by half and can last as long as 20 years.

Solar options

Installing rooftop solar panels can help save money on energy bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. After the initial installation investment, solar panels can quickly recoup their costs when used to generate electricity for a home.

Solar energy is becoming increasingly practical and affordable for residential use. Currently, the most common uses for solar power in homes are in heating water and generating electricity.

Many homeowners find that their solar panels not only supply all the electricity their homes need, but also generate an excess that homeowners can then sell back to the local electricity

Water heating accounts for nearly 18 percent of a home's energy consumption, according to the Energy Information Administration survey. Replacing an older, less efficient elec-

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HOME IMPROVEMENT 11

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Your bedroom: Awaken your personality with the latest color trends By Brandpoint

he bedroom is an oasis. It's the place where you w a ke up, ener g i z e d a nd ready to start the day, as well as where you slip away and unwind from the day's activities. This is the one room that is truly yours, so make sure it's a ref lection of your personality. Looking for a place to start? Fi nd a pa i nt c olor t h at matches your character and charisma. Paint manufacturers are now releasing their predict ions for 2014's hot colors. Many, like the four trend palettes from Pratt & Lambert -- Common Ground, Uncharted, Nature's Bounty and Grace -- provide descriptions and pose questions that can reveal your perfect color choice. Common Ground Are you enticed by the beauty and mystery of different cultures? A re you constant ly

looking for ways to embrace your adventurous side? If so, the Common Ground palette is for you. Inspired by dramatic, f loral patterns, tribal prints and saturated hues, this global palette features boldly exotic and fearless colors. Pair Olive Grove with Orange Spice to get a look worthy of a world traveler. Dress the room in dark-wood accents, brass hardware and fixtures and rich textures to complement the new daring hues. Uncharted Do the depths of the sea and unexplored rea lms of t he universe cause your curious side to quiver with excitement? If yes, then it's time for you to discover the colors of Uncharted. By focusing on bright colors set in dark spaces, you'll awaken your spirit and open your mind to the unknown. Incorporate Delightful Aqua or Deep Cerise with Noir to get an out-of-this-world, fantasy-

worthy room. Polish your be d w it h velvet y, plu sh pillows and a comforter in a chic, peacock pattern to add another touch of whimsy. Nature's Bounty Looking for a more simplistic slumber? Find harmony with the earth through Nature's Bounty palette, which celebrates the purity of Mother Nature and a sustainable, respon sible f ut u re. T h i s trend brings w it h it rich, honest colors representative of whole foods, plants and soil from the farm-to-table movement. Bring Pratt & Lambert's 2014 Color of the Year, Sunspot, into your restful room for a natural touch that will liven the space. Complete the look by showcasing the raw and unique look of unfinished w o o d . Ac c e s s or i z e w it h handmade, knitted blankets to give an organic, honest feeling.

Grace If you're looking for a soothing and feminine place to rest your wear y eyes, the Grace palette can calm your nerves and provide a soft backdrop to a rough day. This color offering is inspired by the peacefulness, tranquility and subtle delicateness of the world that surrounds us. Muted colors and et herea l, earth tones, like Blue Star and Dover W hite, work together to create nostalgic beauty and a relaxing retreat. Dress the room with light, airy fabrics and romantic, antique accessories for a minimalistic boudoir that will leave you feeling rested. By narrowing in on a few key trends, you'll sift through the color clutter to create a special sanctuary that ref lects your individuality and personality. There's nothing to fear -- simply invite new colors to the space and wake up a tired bedroom that echoes your spirit and soul.

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12 HOME IMPROVEMENT

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Submitted photo

The house was originally built in 1941 by Mike Bolduc’s grandfather. Before the remodel.

Submitted photo The newly renovated exterior of the Bolduc home.

New life: The Bolducs renovate an old house By Jackie Rybeck Feature Writer

Mike wanted to move into his family home.

“T here a re just so ma ny memor ies here,” he sa id. “Memories that I just couldn’t bring any where else. And I kept remembering my dad telling me if I ever sell this, I was crazy!”

he operative word i n t he ter m "g ut renovation" is t he first one ... because it certainly takes guts to rip an entire house down to the framework and start over. But that is just what Mike and Jessica Bolduc decided to do when Mike’s parents passed away, leaving him the family home that had extended back three generations. “I grew up in that house,” said Mike. “My grandfather built the house in 1941 and after my parents got married, a second-floor apartment was added for our family to live in.” “I had such a wonder f u l childhood here,” he added. “This place always had an open-door policy a nd it’s where everyone came to get together.” Fi nd i n g t he m s e l v e s t he ow ners of two homes, the Lewiston-area family had a choice to make. Their options were to sell the parent’s twofamily home; not sell their home and become landlords; sell both homes, and buy a new one; or sell their current house a nd move into t he family home.

Jessica wasn’t quite so sure she wanted to go through all the stress and aggravation of fixing up the family house; she had wanted something newer. So, as with any couple, compromise was made. “Maddox, our son was only 18 mont hs old a nd I was preg na nt w it h Finn,” she explained. “I knew how much Mike hated the thought of selling this house, but I didn’t want to become a landlord and I didn’t want to just fix up the house. Having a total gutting and starting almost like a new house was our compromise.” They discussed the numerous advantages to starting from scratch. “We were able to repair any structural deficiencies, insulate effectively and update the plumbing and electrical system,” explained Mike. “It was also easier to relocate walls, doors and windows.” My dad had also put in a pool

The Bolducs' new living room was added on to the original house. that is gorgeous and after his passing, this house was still the place to hang out.” “A nd most of a ll,” Jessica added, “making it our home with our designs.” Other than the studs and roof framing, it was like building a new home. Even the upstairs floor joists were replaced. “We sta r ted about a yea r ago,” said Jessica. “We met with Dan Poussard, our contractor, and he came and measured the outside walls. And once we had the measurements, then came the desig n i ng of t he i nter ior walls.” Most all of the construction went smooth.

“Jessica helped with designing t he inside deta i l a nd she d id a n awesome job. Dan started in the spring te a r i ng dow n w a l l s a nd then as soon as it warmed up, he did the exterior of the house: windows, doors and siding. We even added on a huge family room with a fireplace. He did a great job of coordinating deliveries with Hammond Lumber, and the other subcontractors like the electrician and plumber,” said Mike. Everything was new: sheetrock, cabinets, countertops, windows and doors. “M a k i n g d e c i s i o n s w a s probably the hardest part,” laughed Jessica. “It was so much fun at first, like the

Jackie Rybeck photo

Jessica, Mike and son Maddox enjoy the new kitchen. cabinets and doors, but it got tough when it came to the smaller things like knobs and light switches. But it was fun, too, sometimes, like when Mike surprised me with the i nsta l lat ion of a lau nd r y s h o ot a nd a h a l f-m o on window over the tub.” Just recently moving in, the house came out stunning, look i ng l i ke a new home inside and out. “We are so grateful to have inherited this house,” said Mike. “I was fortunate to have parents and grandparents who made w ise decisions allowing us to have a home we would other wise never

have. Even at two years old and nine months, the boys somehow feel it too. They started sleeping right thought the night as soon as we came here.” Now that the boys are the fourth generation to move in, will it be carried on? “We certainly hope so,” Mike said. “I wish the same childhood for them as I had in this house. And I hope when the time comes, one of them will continue and add more generations.” "My dad was right,” he added. “I would have been crazy to sell this house -- this home.”

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

HOME IMPROVEMENT 13

Turner resident Fran Rodgers brings life to an old farmhouse By Deborah Carroll Feature Writer “I bought this place in July of 2009,” said Fran Rodgers of her large, circa-1865 farmhouse in Turner. “When I bought it, I knew that there were a ton of things wrong with it.” In addition to the first f loor living space, the house has an apartment upstairs and a studio apartment in the barn. Rodgers lived upstairs for the first year, renovating that space first. The floor in the upstairs living room “is a very pretty narrow oak,” according to Rodgers, so she refinished it. The kitchen cabinets, however, were made of plywood, and were in dire need of refinishing. An artist, Rodgers used her oil paints to paint ON the cabinets was what was IN the cabinets. “It’s a funky, fun kitchen,” she said. Three of the rooms upstairs have their original tin ceilings. She scraped and refinished them with a metallic paint. Because she planned to living on the first floor and wanted to keep the noise level down, Rodgers carpeted the upstairs bedrooms. She also renovated the studio apartment over the barn, repairing water damage, painting, and replacing windows. Antique cast-iron radiators throughout the house circulate heat, and, she said, “The first winter I lived downstairs I had three of them burst." Rodgers didn’t realize this had happened for a couple of days because she had closed off those rooms to conserve energy. “The three rooms had wall-to-wall carpeting, and the carpets were soaked to the point where it was raining in the basement,” she said. It was the middle of January, and Rodgers tore up the carpeting and dragged it out to the barn, where it froze.

BEFORE: Rodgers did not care to keep the plywood kitchen cabinet doors as they were when she moved in.

AFTER: Rodgers, an artist, used her oil paints to paint ON the cabinets was what was IN the cabinets.

BEFORE: The bathroom was oddly situated and lacked any style.

AFTER: The renovated bathroom has a lot of charm.

Underneath the carpeting, Rodgers discovered disintegrating linoleum, and underneath that, pumpkin pine. The linoleum was laid with a glue that Rodgers found nearly impossible to remove. “The floor sander that I rented didn’t do a good job, and I even tried pouring boiling water on it!” Ultimately, Rodgers found that the best method to remove the glue was with a paint scraper. “I scraped, and scraped, and kept scraping ... It took me the entire winter to scrape up the old linoleum." She added, “The floors are absolutely stunning now.” After that, and only because the newly exposed wood floors looked so great, “I took a look at the living room f loor, by choice.” Pulling up the carpet she found – you guessed it – linoleum. And underneath that, bird's eye maple. Having been constructed before indoor plumbing, the home’s bathrooms were added much later. “There’s a two-seater in the barn,” said Rodgers, "and when the plumbing came in, they just plunked it wherever they could,” making for a floor plan that didn’t make a lot of sense.

Farmhouse

page 20 ‰

14 HOME IMPROVEMENT

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Crafting a major renovation: At the home of Peter Rinck and Laura Davis

he wife-and-husband team of Laura Dav is a nd Peter Rinck a re in the business of crafting marketing plans for varied regional and national brands. They use creativ it y, exper ience a nd k nowledge to increase business and gain visibility and brand recognition for clients. On any day, you will find them helping clients to create and implement marketing and business plans. When it came to implementing a major home renovation project for their home, they turned to local experts to help them master the renovation plan. “Ou r home i mprovement pr oje c t i nc lude s a tot a l kitchen, sitting room, office, laundry room and hallway renovation. Essentially we are renovating our first floor common living space,” said Davis. “Our home is a nearly 250-year-old post and beam farmhouse in Buckfield. The most important thing to us is to optimize t he beaut y and integrity of the original structure while bringing in contemporar y functiona l-

ity and design elements that integrate well with the existing antique elements.” T he couple sta r ted t hei r project, which is still under way, by creating a wish list. “Peter and I both wanted a new kitchen design. We love to cook and entertain in our home and we have a huge family so we really wanted to create a space that would be welcoming and perfect for gatherings,” said Davis. “Last spring, as the very first step, we met w ith a contractor, Rich Lajoie of Lajoie Construction and his partner and brother, Dan Lajoie of Lajoie Precision Building Concepts. At the time, they were in the middle of building a brand new home so, after discussing our project, they agreed to line us up to be their next project.” Davis was impressed with the skill and expertise offered by the Lajoie brothers. She found t hat in addit ion to being sk i l led i n new const r uction, the team appreciated the process of restoring an antique home.

Jessica Rice, kitchen designer at Hammond Lumber, came up with this artistic rendering of what the Davis-Rinck kitchen might look like when finished. “Their bag of tools includes everything from construction to finish work, electricity and even sheet-rocking and pa int ing. W hen t hey met w it h u s, t he y were ver y excited about the project and the process of discovery that comes in an older house,” said Davis. “They let us know that in projects like ours, both wonderful things and scary things could potentially be uncovered. To be honest, it felt like we would be embarking on quite the adventure together.” Davis jumped into the project feeling conf ident t hat no matter what was uncovered, the team would be able to tackle it. T he cont r ac tor s adv i sed t he couple to work w it h loca l resources including Ha m mond Lu mber a nd Paradigm Windows. Davis admitted that this was very helpful because their renovation project was so large and it could get overwhelming to

know which subcontractors to choose. Early on, she also met with experts at Agren Appliance and F.X. Marcotte to assist in purchasing new appliances and to help with interior design. As the project began, Davis said that an unexpected discover y led to a wonderful change of plans. “We uncovered massive, gorgeous wooden beams in our sitting room. In the ceiling, t here a re hem lock bea ms that measure up to 16 inches across and the supporting posts are Gunstock Cherry. Once [we] uncovered these gems, it was an easy decision to leave them exposed.” Davis said that the beams were repu r posed for t he house a nd had orig ina l ly been used for a barn struct u re. T he bea m s a re a l l h a nd-he w n w it h Rom a n numerals carved in for supporting beams. “It was an easy decision to

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Submitted photo

Even the siding had to come off as part of the renovation project at the Davis-Rinck home.

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Major renovation projects are not Giving themselves almost a year to for the squeamish. get everything in place before the actual renovation work began, was keep the beams exposed and to restore them to their origi- of great benefit to being able to line up deliveries and locate local nal condition,” said Davis. services. Homeowner Laura Davis Davis is eager to offer advice said she was happy with the work for others considering a renoof Rich Lajoie of Lajoie Construction vation project. and his partner and brother, Dan “Leave plent y of t ime for Lajoie of Lajoie Precision Building the planning process,” she Concepts. said. “Because we lined up our contractor last spring, it allowed us months to work [with our designer] and to really think through what we wanted in terms of design as well as to shop and research key elements such as appliances and flooring.”

valuable advice every step of the way.”

She went on to suggest hiring a contractor you can trust and who brings varied skills and talents to the project.

A nd her la st sug ge st ion might well be her strongest. “Buy local,” said Davis citing a list of contractors, building supply stores, window ma kers, applia nce stores, furniture stores and banks that helped make her project come true.

“Our contractors have been a plea su re to work w it h, have met ever y t ime line milestone, and have offered

“ T h e r e a r e t r e m e n d ou s vendors and businesses to tap into right here in the Lewiston-Auburn area.”

HOME IMPROVEMENT 15

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Spring-prep steps for your sun-friendly skylights By Brandpoint When spring finally arrives, windows and skylights across t he countr y w ill open, as happy homeow ners revel i n a l l t hat su nsh i ne a nd warm, fresh air. But before you can savor spring, you still have weeks of w inter to get through. You can use that time wisely to ensure all your home's windows, skylights and doors are in good working order -- and ready for action when spring arrives. With some simple maintenance of existing windows and skylights -- and replacing older models -- it's possible to improve your home's energy e f f i c i e n c y a n d a p p e a rance, and prep for spring at the same time. W hile you may be versed in w indow maintenance, many homeowners are less sure of how to properly care for skylights. Velux, manufacturer of solar powered fresh air skylights, offers some guidance: Moder n sk y l ig ht s a re a s du rable a nd ef f ic ient a s today's top-quality windows, so ma i ntena nce requ i rements are relatively minimal on newer models. Start by cleaning glass thoroughly. Soak the skylight glass with clean water and mild soap to loosen dirt and debris. Use a mi ld, non-abrasive glass cleaner and a soft brush or pad to clean the glass, a nd i m med iately remove the cleaning solution with a squeegee or lint-free cloth. Never use metal scrapers, blades or knives as they can scratch or damage glass. Use appropriate caution when climbing ladders to reach your skylight. You can find more skylight cleaning tips at www.veluxusa.com. If your skylights have pre-finished wood frames, inspect them every year before spring and look for signs of peeling, cracking or fading that will need to be re-finished. Re-

finish or re-paint as needed following the manufacturer's guidelines. Check to ensure all exterior fasteners a re secure, a nd that cladding and f lashing are free of excessive wear or scratches. Immediately replace damaged claddings and flashings. For fresh air (venting) skylights, check the mechanism that opens the sash. Open skylights (and then turn off the power if your skylight is electric) and use a clean, dry towel to wipe off the chain. Don't use cleaner or solvent. If your skylight has blinds (which improve its overall energ y-efficiency), inspect those as well to ensure they're work i ng properly. If you haven't yet installed blinds, now is a good time to do so. Remote-cont rol led, sola rpowered blinds a llow you to easily open and close a Velux solar powered fresh air skylight and shade it when the sun touches that part of the roof -- improving the sk yl ig ht's energ y per formance rating by as much as 45 percent. And a 30 percent Federal tax credit is available on not only solar powered skylights and blinds but on the installation cost as well. W hile maintaining a sk ylight can extend its useful l i fe, even t he best-made product will eventually need replacement. If your home has an older model skylight, replacing it before spring w ith an Energ yStar-qualified model can help improve your home's overall energy efficiency, prevent leaks and enhance how the sk ylight looks and functions in your home. And if it happens that you're having roof replacement work done, dealing with skylights at the same time can save you money. Insta l lat ion ca n of ten be done in a day and a range of product features ensure

you'll find the energ y-efficient sk ylight a nd st ylish blind that works best with your home. From the latest Clean, Quiet & Safe glass that stays clean longer while reducing outside noise, to Sun Tunnel tubular skylights that can bring sunshine into lower-level rooms, homeowners have many options for bringing natural light and fresh air into their homes. Not sure how a skylight will look in your home? Velu x offers a free, downloadable skylight planner app. By adding skylights, taking ca re of ex ist ing units, or replacing older models with Energ yStar-qualified solar powered fresh air units, you can help ensure your skylights are ready to let natural light and fresh air in when spring finally arrives.

Low maintenance Sun Tunnel tubular skylights are inexpensive and easily installed. They provide natural light through a variety of fashionable ceiling diffusers to areas of the home where traditional skylights aren’t the best solution for daylighting.

Venting fresh air skylights, with energy-efficient blinds, add style while providing natural light and passive ventilation. Proper care of skylights and windows will provide the best daylighting experience.

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16 HOME IMPROVEMENT

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Keep wall flaws hidden with beautiful texturing techniques By Brandpoint When it comes to home decorating, texturing can do for your walls what a good coat of wax can do for your car's finish -- hide a host of flaws. Poorly patched holes, uneven sheetrock, ugly wallpaper and even multiple layers of peeling paint can all be hidden beneath a beautiful layer of texture. Texture's beauty, versatility at covering imperfections, and ease of application have made it a long-loved technique of do-it-yourselfers. There's a texturing technique to fit virtually every budget, decorating theme and level of expertise. Here are some tips for adding a textured look to your home decor:

• The range of textures is virtually endless. Popcorn (most often used for ceilings), knock down and orange peel are among the three most popular, and simple, textures. Knock down and orange peel textures mimic the appearance of plaster or stucco on an interior wall. • Nearly anything can be used to put the texture in the compound -- from commonly used items like sponges and paint trowels to whisk brooms and even window squeegees. The texture is limited only by your imagination.

• Sprayers, a favorite tool of in-the-know doThere's a texturing technique to fit it-yourselfers, is now also a viable alternative virtually every budget, decorating for adding texture to your walls. Wagner Spray • Keep it simple. You don't have to do anything Tech offers a sprayer specifically designed for theme and level of expertise. complicated, difficult or even particularly adding texture to walls or ceilings. The Power time-consuming to achieve a good textured Tex can apply texture to any ceiling or wall in effect. In fact, the easier the process, the more your home, and uses three nozzles and a generous one-gallon you will enjoy it and that enjoyment will show through in your hopper to apply popcorn, knock down or orange peel textures. work. Compact and light weight, the Power Tex also offers a variable • When working by hand with a trowel, roller or paint brush, flow trigger, a hopper that adjusts for walls or ceilings, and an you can use your favorite paint and any color you choose. easy clean up design. A built-in air turbine eliminates the need Simply mix your paint of choice with regular drywall joint for a separate, often cumbersome, air compressor. compound. Or, if you want to be cautious with color, you can apply the joint compound first, then paint over the completed The Power Tex is available from select retailers. To learn more, or for a list of retailers, visit-www.wagnerspraytech.com. texture once it has dried.

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Honda Spring Spectacular!

Energy from page 10

company, for additional cost savings. With new technologies from leading solar module makers like LG, installation is also becoming easier and cheaper. More efficient cooling Air conditioning accounts for more than 41 percent of the energy a home consumes, according to the Energy Information Administration. Yet O'Toole noted that in many regions of the country, going without A/C is not an option for many homeowners. Fortunately, innovative options have emerged to help cool homes more efficiently, using less energy to produce better results. The Art Cool Gallery, for example, is a wall-mounted unit with a picture frame for customized artwork. It's a duct-free way to deliver cool air to a room. An indoor unit delivers the cooled air and links to an outdoor unit via compact refrigerant lines that eliminate the need for bulky ductwork. The units are a great option for remodeling older homes where installing ductwork may not be practical. "Design tastes change just as fashions do, but saving money will always be in style," O'Toole said. "American homeowners have embraced the idea that remodeling can benefit both their wallets and the environment."

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HOME IMPROVEMENT 17

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Carpeting: Color underfoot The color dilemma: By Tresa Erickson Feature Writer

t’s been quite some time since you’ve bought new carpeting for your home, and it is starting to show. What was once soft and stain free is no longer. It’s time you replaced the carpeting, and while there are many factors to consider from pile cut to fiber to performance rating, t he one t hat has got you stumped is color. You know you don’t want white or black carpeting, but beyond that, you have no idea.

Carpeting can be costly, and once you pu rchase it a nd arrange to have it installed, t here’s usua lly no turning back. You’re stuck with the color you selected, so it better be right. Here are some tips to help you through the color dilemma. What is the size of the space? Generally, lighter colors open up a space, while darker colors close it in, making for a cozier feel. While dark colored carpeting will hide more stains, it could make your small spaces appear even smaller. How much traffic does the space receive? While lighter colors are more easily soiled t ha n da rker colors; da rker colors will show dust and lint. If the room(s) where you are replacing the carpet receives a lot of use, you might want to consider a color in the medium range to minimize the appearance of dust, dirt and lint.

Your paint choices

W h at i s t he pu r p o s e of t he space ? Br ig ht-colored c a r pet i ng m ig ht prove a rea l distraction in a room intended for work or relaxation such as a home office or bed room. It m ig ht do wonders, however, in a playr o om or w or kout s pac e, adding to the energetic feel.

By Tresa Erickson Feature Writer Most of us have been t here, done t hat -- perusing paint chips for days on end, selecting a few colors, applying them to the walls and hating the results. We don’t have the time, money or desire for a redo, so we tell ourselves to live with the paint colors for a while to see if they grow on us. Sometimes they do. Sometimes they don’t, and we go through the process all over again or just learn to live with what’s there. How can we ensure we pick the right paint colors the first time around?

How is the space designed? If you are satisfied with the design and plan to live with it for a long time to come, you might want to choose carpeting that will enhance it, such as an Oriental patterned carpet for an Asian-inspired dining room. If, on the other hand, you like to change things up, then you might to opt for a neutral colored carpet. That way, you won’t have to worr y about designing around the carpeting. You can just add an Oriental rug on top and switch it out when ready. What kind of flow do you want to create in the space? Some people want a continuous flow from room to room, and flooring is one of the best ways to create this. If you have wall-to-wall carpeting throughout your home and you want to keep the flow continuous, stick to one color like tan or gray to create a neutral backdrop. Just make sure the color you select varies somewhat from that of the walls and furniture, else you will end up with one big box. Most importantly, what color do you like? It won’t matter

A neutral-colored carpet means you don't have to worry about designing around the carpeting. You can just add an Oriental rug on top and switch it out when ever you want a different look.

Unfortunately, there is no surefire way to ensure you pick the right paint colors the first time around. There are some things you can do to improve your odds, however.

Study the room long beforehand and determine the purposes you want it to serve. Will it be a place to relax and watch TV, a place to how attractive that silver y gather with others and eat, or a place to study gray ca rpet looks in your and work? home if you hate it. Choose a color that appeals to you that Read up on the color wheel to determine what you can live with for a long color families will make the best backdrop for the purposes you intend for the room. If you time to come. want to use the room primarily as a place to Ta ke home sa mples a nd relax, for example, reds and yellows might not review them at various times be a good choice, as these will evoke energy of the day in different types of and passion. A soft brown or blue, on the light to get a real sense of how other hand, might do just the trick. they will look in your home. What looks like an elephant Shop around for paint colors. Go to several gray at the store may look stores and select as many paint chips as posmore like a pewter in your home. Know what you are getting and choose the color of carpeting that will best serve your needs today a nd for many tomorrows to come.

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Know what each color will look like at any given time. Toss out the chips you don’t like and tape the ones remaining to the wall where you can see them throughout the day. Narrow your choices until you have 10 or less. Then research the paint brands and find out how they stack up against each other. Choose the top ones and make sure the colors of choice come in the type of finish you desire. You might not be able to find that sassy hot pink or fiesta lime green in the eggshell finish you want. Finally, get some paint samples. Many stores now carry small paint samples that you can purchase for less than the price of a quart. Apply your samples to the wall near each other and check them out at various times of the day under various lighting conditions. Continue narrowing your color choices until you have the exact palette you want. If you’re still undecided, consider painting some wallboards in the colors in question. Then set the wallboards along the walls in the room you plan to paint and live with them for a while to see which ones appeal to you most. With any luck, you will soon know what you want and love the results!

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18 HOME IMPROVEMENT

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Save money without skimping on style in your kitchen remodel By Brandpoint Home remodel projects don't have to require an extensive budget, or look cheap when using less expensive materials. If you're interested in updating the look of your kitchen this year, you can find products and materials that allow you to create a beautiful and stylish home without paying a high price. The trick to f inding t hese products a nd materia ls is keeping an open mind, said Su m mer Ba lt zer, i nter ior designer and former host of HGTV's Design on a Dime. "Most homeowners are surprised by how reasonable kitchen redecorating can be when they use and reorganize existing furniture and cabinetry in new ways, or by taking a new look at how technology has improved the products their grandmothers had in their kitchens," Baltzer said.

"We can save money without skimping on style, using what is already there and bringing back what has worked for years with a new look." For example, laminate was t he k itchen cou nter top surface of choice "back in the day." Today's laminate has evolved to improve its style -- look ing like rea l wood, stone or tile. Wilsonart Laminate has many new designs that look and feel like natural stone, like granite or marble, as well as wood, making visitors to the home think they're seeing the authentic material on surfaces like countertops, tables and even walls. W hen remodel i ng you r k itchen, consider ways to use what already exists, but upgrade it with a fresh, new look. For example, if your k itchen c ou nter tops a re faded, covered in stains and worn out, don't try to replace everything.

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Instead, consider replaci ng just t he tops w it h g ra n ite-st yled la m i nate designed to mirror the look of granite, but at a fraction of the cost. Wilsonart Laminate with AEON Enhanced Performance Technology is designed specifically for use as a countertop, and cleans up easily using a damp cloth and mild detergent. The la m inate is resista nt to scratching and marring f rom sha r p object s. T h is way you can keep the existing cabinets, but change the color and look of the room simply by switching out the countertops. Or consider turning a former countertop or table into a beautiful faux butcher block -- without the expensive cost or ongoing maintenance of real wood. From darker oaks to light maples, laminate can transform the look of your kitchen quickly and easily.

And if you are considering undergoing a "green" renovation, know that Wilsonart Laminate is 70 percent paper -- much better for the earth than granite or marble, which have to be mined, or wood that has to be harvested from older, mature trees. A not her way to g ive your kitchen a fresh new look is modernizing the style. Backsplashes by the sink are very trendy in restaurants and homes these days, but tiling a large area w ith stone or granite can be both time-consuming and costly. Instead, consider choosing a laminate that will bring out the colors of the room, and add a bit of patterning to the walls. Sw itching out t he fabr ics in the kitchen will help you fina lize the entire project within a reasonable budget. Ke ep t he c ou nter-heig ht chairs, but add new seat cushions or replace the current

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HOME IMPROVEMENT 19

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Trends

tures and brushed stainless steel cabinet hardware.

from page 8

Homeowners are putting down their paintbrushes and adding interest with texture through high-gloss finishes, metallics, sequins a nd mirrors. A tex tured tile wall brings visual and tactile interest, especially when paired with contrasting high-gloss lacquer or low-gloss matte accessories. â&#x20AC;˘ Visual punch. Reawaken the senses this spring by incorporating a striking visual element to t he home. Multi-dimensional surface treatments i n p e a r l, met a l l ic a nd gold/silver combinations add panache as a coating

used for hardwood, or can be applied to wa llpaper, f u r n it u re or decorat ive ac c e s s or ie s . A nd don't forget to look up -- coffered ceilings bring a striking je ne sais quoi to any room. â&#x20AC;˘ Manipulated metals. The versatility of manipu lated meta l ma kes it a great addition to any style home -- from hand-crafted artisan to contemporar y high gloss. Copper, pewter and nickel are getting in on the action and can be styled in a variety of ways, including hammered metal sink basins, tin-look ceiling tiles, antiqued copper light fix-

If you'd benefit from a little w indfa ll to help finance your fabulous spring home i mprovement project s (and who wouldn't?), consider checking with your favorite vendors, many of which are running seasonal promotions. A r m s t r on g R e s i d e nt i a l Ceilings, for example, is running a Style Is Looking Up Giveaway in February and March and will offer the chance to win free product a nd g if t ca rds to spend on home i mprovements at w w w.a rmst rong.com/ residential-ceilings.

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20 HOME IMPROVEMENT

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Farmhouse from page 13

In fact, when Rodgers purchased the farmhouse, you had to wa l k t h roug h t he narrow first f loor bathroom to get to a back bedroom, which was also the laundry room. “I also had a ridiculous closet off of the living room, near the bathroom, which shared a wall with the isolated back bedroom." Rodgers ripped the closet out, opening the living room up to the back bedroom via a short hallway. Replacing the door from the bathroom to the bedroom with a wall created the perfect place for a bathroom vanity. After removing the carpet, l i noleu m, a nd ca rdboa rd wa l l cover f rom t he back bed room, Rodgers fou nd not on ly a pumpk in pine f loor, but pu mpk i n pi ne walls. A lthough she refinished the wood floor, Rodgers removed a w ide piece of pumpkin pine from the wall for use elsewhere. She also removed windows and part of the exterior wall, creating a space for a very large, fixed-

Submitted photo Rodgers topped her countertop and center island with cedar landscape Above: Turner homeowner Fran Rodgers found that the best method to remove the glue adhering the old linoleum timbers reduced to wafers, glued to the plywood base, and grouted. After to the wood floor was with a paint scraper. sanding, she will finish them with a food-safe butcher block oil. pane window flanked by two double-hungs. Relocating the laundry room to another part of the home, she insta lled a sma ll sink where the washing machine had been, creating a funct iona l space for her new studio.

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“One of the things that I really like to do,” she said, “is reuse.” Rodger s refa sh ioned t he pumpkin pine from the wall into a rustic bathroom vanity, topped by a pounded metal vessel sink. She also cut wine corks into wa fers a nd used t hem as flooring in her bathroom, and

the bathroom door is going to be a slider – exposed like a barn door as opposed to a pocket door.

poses that it may have been installed long ago as a way to get light into the windowless bathroom.

Contributing to the vintage a m b i a n c e o f t h e b a t hroom, a color f u l sta i ned g la ss w i ndow g races t he wall between the bathroom and kitchen. Rodgers sup-

When she bought the farmhouse, the first floor kitchen was just awful. "I was sick of it since day one,” she said.

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Now, one of t he k itchen’s four wa lls has been comple t el y r e f i n i s he d, w it h other renovations well under way. Rodgers removed the old range from its cramped alcove and replaced it with a deep pantry. To its right, she built cabinets as well as

a space for her fish tank -bringing life, light and color to the space. To the left of the pantry, the antique stained glass window that separates the kitchen from the bathroom was left in place. She especia l ly d isl i ked having the kitchen sink in the area that doubled as the main entrance to the apartment. She plans on tearing it out, along with its cabinetry, to open up the space.

Farmhouse

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Here Rodgers grouts between her handmade countertop tiles.

HOME IMPROVEMENT 21

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Farmhouse from page 20

On the opposite wall, the old builtin cabinet was too shallow. She tore it apart and fit a piece in the back, making it deep enough to accommodate the kitchen sink, and then reattached the cabinets. She also ripped out the dysfunctional open shelving above the cabinets. For her new countertop, as well as her new center island, Rodgers purchased cedar landscape timbers. She whacked the 4x4s into 5/8" wafers, glued them to the thick plywood base, as you would tiles,

Kitchen

g routed in bet ween t hem, a nd sanded until the counter and island surfaces were even and smooth. She will finish them with a food-safe butcher block oil. Creating her unique countertops, she laughed, has been horrifically time consuming, but worth every ounce of effort. “Since the mid 1970s, I’ve had these old wooden boxes,” said Rodgers. “I’ve used them as furniture, as bookshelves, and as supports for my bed ... they’re a part of me.” She put drawer slides on them and built a face for each, making them into drawers in her kitchen island. The island will also house her new

the wall area above the countertops. “This was another delay in getting the project done.”

from page 2

“I discovered that it takes about two weeks to get the g ra n ite cou nter tops customized for a project,” said Nadeau. “The first countertops that we got were not cut to the size we needed. They had to be reordered and that added more waiting time to the project.” Nadeau also experienced a delay in getting the kind of glass tile that he wanted for

Nadeau admitted that the delays were a result of having this kind of project done so close to the holiday season. “Let’s face it. Any way who takes on a project like this in November wants to have the work done in time for the upcoming holiday,” said Nadeau. “Even the contractor admitted that this time of year is difficult to get products on a timely basis due to the high

stovetop and built-in oven. In it ia l ly, Rodgers replaced t he two windows in the kitchen. More recently, however, she changed her mind and purchased a long window that will span the entire length of the only exterior wall in the kitchen. Underneat h it, she w ill build a shallow shelf for her houseplants. The old kitchen drop ceiling is constructed of tongue in groove pine. “I love old stuff, and I don’t need or want anything to be perfect,” she said, but the large holes in the center of the room were a problem. Rodgers found several decorative pressed tin panels, similar to the

demand before the holiday.” When asked to give advice for others tackling similar projects, Nadeau advised that people think carefully about the features they want to have in their kitchen cabinets. “Look around and see what is available. Take your time shopping, observe what other people have and ask ques-

tin ceilings upstairs. She cut holes in several sections and purchased recessed lighting. The tin panels and recessed lights, as well as a galvanized steel pipe that Rodgers will fashion into a rack for hanging cookware, will decorate the ceiling, light the room, and provide functional features above the stovetop. In 1978, out of necessity, Rodgers taught herself how to do alterations on garments by taking the garments apart before re-stitching them to the correct sizes.

in Auburn for advice and materials. “I’ll go in w ith a problem,” she said, “and they’ll teach me how to solve it.” All of these projects, she admitted, have been a learning experience, and it hasn’t helped that in her old house, nothing is plumb, nothing is level, and nothing is square. Undaunted, Rodgers enjoys bringing new life to stuff. “Little by little,” she said, “I’m finding and preserving things that I know I will reuse ... because, boy, do I have plans.”

Now, at t he age of 65, Rodgers applies those same principles and techniques to the renovations at her farmhouse. She also goes to Lowes

tions,” said Nadeau, who also advised using contractors that you know and trust. “For this kind of project, I’d also recommend not trying to have it done so close to the holidays,” added Nadeau. “It simply was not the best time of year to put pressure on getting the product you want and getting the project done by the time the holidays roll in.”

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22 HOME IMPROVEMENT

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Outdoor Living from page 6

way s a nd wa l k way s a re popular. "Lighting can be installed w it h i n ret a i n i ng w a l l s, under capstones and among paving stone pathways and patios," said O'Dona hue. Even a si mple st r i ng of lights around a patio or deck railing adds a warm ambience to evenings and cool nights. 5. Insta ll a pav ing stone patio. Interlocking concrete paving stones fit any outdoor landscape style, from classic to contemporary. Pavers are easy to install, come in many styles and colors and require

little to no maintenance. Some pavers, like Slatestone from Willow Creek Paving Stones, feature a surface texture like natural stone.

"People like to set it out and forget about it. When you use it in fall or winter you can add removable cushions for warmth."

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7. Shelter's not just for shade. Take shelter from the element s w it h a va r iet y of pergolas, awnings and other coverings for pat ios a nd decks that not only provide shade but also help protect from wind and inclement weather.

"Due to durability and ease of m a i nt e n a n c e , m a n y homeowners and businesses choose recycled HDPE furniture like our Comfort Craft line over traditional wood and wrought iron outdoor furniture, which needs to be stored in t he w inter," said Dave Johnson of ShopPatiotown.com with stores in Minneapolis/St. Pau l.

8. Turn on the heat. A variety of portable outdoor gas or electric patio heaters and la mps adds wa r mt h a nd l ig ht to outdoor spaces. "F r e e s t a n d i n g h e a t e r s , la mps a nd tabletop f i re bowls a nd pots a re ver y popular," said Johnson.

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HOME IMPROVEMENT 23

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

Got an impossible space? The no-fail way to turn it into a bathroom By Brandpoint Nearly everyone has a home improvement "impossible dream" – an inground pool in a postage-stamp-sized backyard or a professionalgrade kitchen on a $5,000 budget. Some homeow ners might say their can't-do renovation is adding a bathroom in an impossible space. But enterprising homeowners and contractors are using a long-proven technology to creatively add bathrooms in a variety of locations once considered "impossible" for plumbing. A bove-t he-f loor plu mbing, also known as up-flush plu mbi ng, ha s been a dependable alternative for homeow ners who wanted to add a bat h room i n a basement – where brea king into concrete f looring makes conventional plumbing laborious, cost ly and high-risk. In the Northeast and the upper Midwest, most homes are built w ith basements – a nd a hig h popu lat ion density requires homeowners to make the most of all available liv ing space. In t he s e re g ion s, up -f lu sh plumbing has been a solution of choice for quickly, c o s t- e f f e c t i v e l y a d d i n g a t oi le t i n a b a s ement environment. But the technology's usefulness extends far beyond the basement. "In the South, Southwest and West, many homes are built on concrete slabs, so above-the-floor plumbing is a natural solution for adding a ground-f loor bathroom," said contractor Mario Rink of Mechanical Solutions LLC in Culpeper, Va. Rink has long used a macerating toilet and plumbing system by Saniflo to help his clients create bat hrooms where none existed before. "It's also a great alternative

in a range of other settings where traditional plumbing can be problematic, such as the raised homes you see in shore towns and southern bayous, or historic homes." Macerating systems use a pump to reduce waste and paper from the toilet and send it under high pressure through piping directly into the septic or sewer system. No wa ste is stored, a nd t he systems a re low-cost compa red to t rad it iona l plumbing. If you've dreamed of adding a bathroom, but thought it was impossible, here are five "impossible" scenarios where above-thef loor plumbing may be the solution: Ground floor on slab construction Owners of slab-built homes may hesitate to cut into the concrete foundation in order to accommodate conventional plumbing. No matter how careful a contractor is when cutting into concrete, a variety of problems can arise – from unexpected obstructions to poor-fitting patches and even stress cracks. "Cut and patched concrete is simply never as strong as concrete that has never been cut," Rink noted. "Upf lush plumbing eliminates the need to cut into a slab and possibly compromise its integrity." Historic homes Opening walls or f loors to accommodate piping may jeopardize historic elements, such as original wood flooring or plaster walls. Systems like Sa nif lo's macerating toilet and plumbing technology eliminate the need to cut through a floor to install new drainage, while minimizing the impact on walls as well. The system also fits easily into small areas like a closet or the dead space behind a stair way, meaning home-

Thanks to up-flush plumbing, adding a bathroom doesn't have to be an impossible dream. owners don't have to give up any room and compromise t he f low of t heir historic homes in order to add a bathroom. Raised homes Southern bayou and beach towns often boast charming raised homes. Adding a bathroom to the lowest floor of a raised home can be problematic; conventional plumbing pipes may detract from the aesthetic value of the space beneath the home, which is often used for car ports, porches and decks. Up-f lush plumbing eliminates the need for unsightly pipes. Warehouse rehabs

adding a bathroom doesn't have to be an impossible dream – no matter what the pa r t ic u l a r "i mp o s si ble" home-i mprovement scena rio. Visit w w w.sanif lo. com to learn more about the technology.

Up-flush plumbing eliminates the need for unsightly pipes in raised homes.

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In cities across the country, a b a ndone d w a r e hou s e s have fou nd ne w l i fe a s condos a nd apa r t ments. Heav y brick construction – especially in historic warehouse buildings – can make adding traditional plumbing difficult. Above-the-f loor plumbing eliminates the need to cut into or remove bricks, and allows renovators to install attractive, cozy bathrooms in smaller spaces. A home in the clouds or one that cleans itself may still be pipe dreams. But thanks t o u p -f l u s h p l u m b i n g ,

24 HOME IMPROVEMENT

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, March 7, 2014

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