Home and Garden 01/07/17

HOME & GARDEN • SATURDAY, JANUARY 7, 2017

resolutions AT HOME

NE W Y E AR’S

REFRESH, REARRANGE AND RE-DESIGN UNIQUE WAYS TO EXERCISE AT HOME

Look inside for these specials and many others.

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS FOR THE HOME

••

T

BY GINA CRONIN, GINA.CRONIN@GAZETTE.COM

he New Year is here in full swing, and while people are busy making resolutions for the body and mind, they may not be doing the same for their home. With the cold weather keeping many people inside, it’s a good time to assess interior spaces and see if there are any positive changes that can be made. The home should be a fresh, vibrant and pleasant place that people look forward to going home to and spending time in — not a cluttered, outdated environment that causes more stress and frustration.

DECLUTTER

There are probably dozens of things in your home that you never use or even look at. Extraneous throw blankets, your kid’s old toys, clothing that you haven’t worn in five years, pots and pans that are scratched up beyond recognition, expired foods in the cupboards, trinkets that you don’t even like, and books you will

never read may be crowding your space unnecessarily. Having these items around not only clouds your home, but it can cloud your mind as well. An open, free flowing space, can release stagnation in the home and the psyche. Discard of items that are unusable and donate items that are still in good shape. When you clear out the old, it allows for fresh, new designs and ideas. Sentimental items that you want to hold on to forever — like special old toys and greeting cards — can be packed away in storage and out of your immediate environment.

REFRESH

There are so many ways to refresh the home. You can start by cleaning every nook and cranny of the house; even those hard to reach areas where dust has been building up the past year. Then clean out your cupboards and refrigerators and wipe them down. Put a fresh coat of paint on the walls – maybe even adding a nice accent wall, like an earthy green or a powdery blue. You can also replace

HG 2 I THE GAZETTE I SATURDAY, JAN 7, 2017

tattered old towels, sheets and curtains with fresh new ones. Pastel sheer curtains are always in style, and brings that vibrant Colorado sun inside — even in the winter.

For a slightly larger shift, change up your outdated bed and sofa, and install a bed frame for added flair. Sectional sofas are always a great choice, as they provide versatility and comfort.

RE-DESIGN

If you can afford a few upgrades, look into the developing trends for 2017.

Some trends include dark green or jewel tone sofas, throw pillows or arm chairs; upholstered bedheads; and marble, quartz, or granite kitchen and bathroom countertops. Pendant lights, copper decorations and hand hammered sinks, and cork accents are also making a comeback. If installing a new hardwood or terra cotta floor is not possible at this time, you can always invest in a fun area rug; like Moroccan, shag, geometric, fur, Navajo or striped style. Also, don’t underestimate the positive effects of adding a plant or

piece of art. This area is a great place to flex your creative side and find a painting or tapestry that uplifts you.

REARRANGE

If it’s not in your budget to invest in home updates, you can always rearrange!

You’d be amazed at how much space can be gained by moving a sofa against the wall or placing a mirror across from a window, which can open up the space with light and reflect the beautiful views outside. You can also stick to a couple Feng Shui design tips to improve energy flow in the home, such as removing technology from bedrooms and ensuring that your bed is positioned diagonally opposite the door — not across from it — while maintaining a view of the door. This allows for optimal feelings of restfulness and security. Also, for the living room, in the south side you can place candles and wooden décor; in the north side you can place a water element; the west side can be home to metal decor; and the east can feature plants.

Unique ways to

exercise at home Fitness enthusiasts who find themselves unable to get out of the house can still get a workout in

E METRO SERVICES

ven the most devoted exercise enthusiasts sometimes encounter obstacles that make it hard for them to squeeze in their regular workouts. Weather can affect outdoor exercise enthusiasts, while busy work schedules can make it difficult to get to the gym.

When unforeseen consequences compromise your ability to stick to your normal workout routine, working out at home might be your only option. The following are a handful of ways to exercise at home when leaving the house is out of the question.

HIT THE STAIRS

Many gyms have StairMaster products that can be used for high-intensity interval training, calorie-burning workouts and/or improving flexibility. While you might not be able to duplicate the effects of such equipment at home, you can take to the stairs in your home, walking up and down the staircases in your home to squeeze in some aerobic exercise. If you want to increase the intensity level, fill a backpack with some weights.

DUST OFF THE JUMP ROPE

Jumping rope is an inexpensive, effective way to burn calories and improve muscle tone. When confined to your home, jump rope in the garage or, weather permitting, in the driveway or backyard. Jumping rope is great cardiovascular exercise and can strengthen the upper and lower body. Men and women who have histories of joint

paint, including problems with their knees, ankles and/or hips, should consult with their physicians before adding jumping rope to their exercise routines.

EMBRACE CRUNCH TIME

Crunches are another effective way to exercise at home. Crunches don't require a lot of space, making them great exercises for apartment dwellers or homeowners whose homes are less than conducive to exercise. Crunches strengthen the core and can help establish muscle tone. Crunches also burn calories. Be sure to adhere to proper form when performing crunches, as the wrong form can increase your risk of injury.

WHEN UNFORESEEN CONSEQUENCES COMPROMISE YOUR ABILITY TO STICK TO YOUR NORMAL WORKOUT ROUTINE, WORKING OUT AT HOME MIGHT BE YOUR BEST OPTION.

BECOME A SQUATTER

You can become a squatter without breaking any laws. Unlike squatters who set up residence in a home without the permission of the homeowners, men and women who squat in their own homes are performing exercises that benefit various parts of their bodies. Squats can be performed with or without weights, and either option can help tone your legs and buttocks, strengthen your core and improve your flexibility. Be sure to use proper form when performing squats. If you have never done squats in the past, first get the form down without using weights, only moving on to squatting with weights after you have mastered the form and if you feel like you want to.

The confines of a home may not always be conducive to exercise. But fitness enthusiasts who find themselves unable to get out of the house can still get a workout in.

Enroll Now for 2017 Colorado Gardener Certificate Training Colorado State University Extension is offering an 11 week course in horticulture education for professional landscapers and home gardeners.

Topics include: SOIL TREES TURF VEGETABLES AND MORE Classes begin January 12. Register today! http://elpasoco.colostate.edu or call 719-520-7688. Registration fee is $530 for more than 65 hours of in-depth training.

SATURDAY, JAN 7, 2017 I THE GAZETTE I HG 3

AMERICAN MEADOWS OFFERS FLOWER SEEDS AND FLOWERING PLANTS THAT ATTRACT POLLINATORS.

DIGGIN’ IN:

Gardening trends for 2017

BY KATHY VAN MULLEKOM, TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICES

Like paint colors and fashion, gardening trends come and go.

season, according to Randy Schultz of Shultz Communications, a gardening public relations specialist in Santa Fe, N.M. For instance, American Meadows offers many types of flower seeds and flowering plants that attract pollinators to your yard and garden. Bee the Change seed packets contain an assortment of wildflower seeds that bring hummingbirds and bees. On a similar note, the Monarch Magnet Perennial Garden attracts and supports monarch butterflies.

For 2017, gardening trends range from clean, healthy living with fewer chemicals and more organic food to “sound-scaping” with trees to buffer sirens and birds to bring song.

“We see a lot of growth in the coming years for gardening,” says Katie Dubow, creative director at the Garden Media Group, a marketing group that tracks and promotes national gardening trends.

HERE, MORE GARDENING GURUS SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS ON 2017 GARDENING TRENDS: The important millennial market force that wants to grow their own food, teas, cocktails, beer and medicine is expected to continue, according to Tish Llaneza of Countryside Gardens in Hampton, Va.

THE HOP PLANT IS FUN TO GROW AND USE FOR CRAFT BEERS.

MARIGOLDS ARE JUST ONE OF “Five Llaneza MANY FLOWERS THAT CAN BE USED million of adds. “The TO CREATE DYES FOR BEAUTIFULLY the six million demand for new gardeners last organic, locally NATURAL YARNS. year were 18– 34-yearsourced food now far olds, according to the 2016 exceeds the supply,” she says.

National Gardening Report,” she says.

Landscaping is an expensive investment, “New technology makes growing 365 days whether you do it yourself or have a year easy, affordable and convenient.” someone create it for you. Your yard is For instance, indoor gardening — also a natural reflection of the world where growing under lights in soil, hydroponically you live, so make it as natural as you can. or aquaponically — is becoming more Natural stone gives you the best common. From growing arugula to bok of both worlds: value for your money choy, clean fresh food will be available to and longevity in looks and feel. plant, pick and plate every season. From Whether you’re trying to attract herbal tea gardens on the window sill and pollinators to your yard or add more healing herbs under lights to vitamindiversity to the overall species count packed microgreens on the in your neighborhood, sustainability kitchen counter, medicinal gardens are experts are now urging home gardeners blooming indoors. to consider which plants and planting Food reigns important with Americans, combinations will provide continued who now demand to know what is in and food and shelter to wildlife, long after we on their food — and where it comes from, humans have wrapped up the gardening

HG 4 I THE GAZETTE I SATURDAY, JAN 7, 2017

FOR GARDENERS WHO WANT TO BRANCH OUT INTO DIFFERENT REALMS, THESE TRENDS ARE GROWING IN POPULARITY: Growing your own hops is a natural step for the beer enthusiast who wants to experiment with the freshest, most local ingredients possible, according to Grace Chapman Elton, horticulture director at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden in Richmond, Va. It’s also fun to watch hops grow; however, you do need to have ample space and provide a structure for support for the prolific flowering vines.

Succulents continue to be popular for busy gardeners because they have great form and color and require little maintenance. Many new varieties are entering the market.

And natural dye gardens are a thing, according to Elton. The do it yourself spirit now extends to growing plants to dye your own textiles and clothing. Whether it’s using marigolds for a golden yellow or cosmos for a bright orange hue, it’s just one more way to enjoy your garden.

SATURDAY, JAN 7, 2017 I THE GAZETTE I HG 5

denniS The menaCe

The Family CirCuS

by hank ketcham

Sherman’S lagoon

PiCkleS

by Brian Crane

mr BoFFo

by Joe martin

by J. P. Toomey

by Bil keane

rhymeS wiTh orange by hilary Price

marmaduke

by Brad and Paul anderson

Baldo

HG 6 I THE GAZETTE I SATURDAY, JAN 7, 2017

by hector Cantu and Carlos Castellanos

Blondie

by dean young and John marshall

muTTS

by Patrick mcdonnell

Funky winkerBean

luann

by greg evans

PeanuTS

by Charles Schulz

by Tom Batiuk

SATURDAY, JAN 7, 2017 I THE GAZETTE I HG 7

loS angeleS TimeS CroSSword

non SequiTur

by wiley

edited by rich norris and Joyce lewis

lola

by Todd Clark

BeeTle Bailey 7 Sounded across 8 2008 Poehler/Fey comedy 1 “Easy!”

9 Real estate measures 8 Scary high 10 Removed for a rules violation, 15 Facebook co-founder Saverin briefly 16 Come by 11 Day of the wk.

17 Soccer blunder 12 Weather 18 Arabian matchmaker 13 Emphatic words 19 Site of many ’60s tours 14 Investor’s concern, familiarly 20 Spread out 21 Real estate measure 22 MPG-estimating org.

24 Obsessive young devotee 23 Kiddie lit count 26 Baton holder 25 Provisions 26 Eponymous 18th-century wine 28 Benching targets, briefly 30 Greenland currency trader Claude 32 Waitress in the comic strip 27 Story featuring Paris “Shoe” 29 Govt. agency with domestic 34 Doctors’ org. field divisions in 15 states 36 Certain jazzman 30 Pacific island overrun by wild 38 They hold water chickens 39 Club attention-getter 31 Original “SNL” cast member 40 Quiche shunner, in an ’80s 33 Godfather cocktail ingredient best-seller 35 Lump 41 Longtime morning host 37 Wally who played himself 43 CIA nickname in the “Taxi” episode 44 One-named “American Boy” “Latka’s Cookies” singer 38 Wine drink 45 Lets out 42 Forest weapon 48 Wheels of justice?

46 Social group 51 A filter may be used to 47 Wite-Out maker produce it 49 Do away with 52 Edge 50 __ health 55 Start to fall?

51 Inexpensive vodka 56 Regretted 53 Currently playing 59 Some trial evidence 54 Draft letters 61 Rebus animal 55 Acid test supply 57 “Wow!” Friday’s Puzzle Solved 58 Colorful holiday candy 60 First name in dognapping 62 Stem (from) 63 Get gray gracefully 64 Old Roman adviser 65 Early arrivals down 1 “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” genre 2 “100% juice smoothie” brand 3 Raisin brand 4 Reaction to a treat, maybe 5 Lover of Psyche 6 One way to cope HG 8 I THE GAZETTE I SATURDAY, JAN 7, 2017

by mort, greg, and Brian walker

hagar The horriBle

moTher gooSe

Tundra

by Chris Browne

by mike Peters

by Chad Carpenter

Bizarro

by dan Piraro

argyle SweaTer

by Scott hilburn

CeleBriTy CiPher by luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

B.C.

by hart

ziTS

by Jerry Scott and Jim Borgman

JumP STarT

Frazz

by robb armstrong

by Jef mallett

SATURDAY, JAN 7, 2017 I THE GAZETTE I HG 9

dilBerT

by Scott adams

Sally ForTh

by Francesco marciuliano and Jim keefe

BaBy BlueS

by Jerry Scott and rick kirkman

PearlS BeFore Swine by Stephan Pastis

PooCh CaFe

HG 10 I THE GAZETTE I SATURDAY, JAN 7, 2017

by Paul gilligan

TAKE OUR ADVICE ADVICE

Dear Amy: My husband’s brother and his wife just got divorced after 17 years of marriage and 25 years of being together.

They have three children, who are close cousins to my three children. All the children are AMY under the age of 15. My children DICKINSON love their aunt and uncle, and consider her still their aunt, even though she is no longer married to their uncle. I too consider this woman my family, even though technically she is no longer my sister-in-law.

My daughter’s communion is this spring, and this woman is godmother to my little girl. Naturally I want to invite her to the church and dinner afterward, but my brother-in-law forbids it! My husband is inclined to side with his brother and say she is not welcome, and that I need to honor this since it is his family.

My daughter will feel terrible if her godmother is not welcome, and I am also fearful that the cousins will not come if their mother is not welcomed.

Am I wrong in thinking it is OK to invite her, even though they aren’t married anymore? Is my husband acting appropriately in telling me it is his call to decide? What’s appropriate here? — Upset Dear Upset: Your husband and his brother have what could be called the primary relationship in this tough triangle. They grew up in the same household and have longstanding familial loyalties that your husband is anchoring to now.

You can imagine that your husband is under some pressure from his brother regarding this event.

Sibling loyalty (unfortunately) trumps your close relationship with your sister-in-law.

You can also imagine that, given the breakup of this marriage, she might not be ready to amicably attend a family event alongside her ex.

Because she is the child’s godmother, this is an issue you should take to clergy. You and your husband should ask for a meeting and attend together. In my view, you should invite her, and the couple should work out between themselves who will attend.

—

Send questions to askamy@tribune.com or to Ask Amy, Chicago Tribune, TT500, 435 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611.

ADVICE

The questions you sent in last year raised issues vital to your health and happiness. Here, we spotlight menDR. OZ AND DR. ROIZEN t a l /e m o t i o n a l health issues to remind YOU what you can do about them.

Marlane M. asked what she could do about her boss who lies constantly.

We reported: Neurologists say pathological lying is a mental disorder called behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) characterized by changes in the brain’s white matter. But psychiatrists say it takes environmental triggers and emotional reactions to various forms of stress, from rejection to abuse, to ignite the behavior.

What YOU can do: At work, document as much as possible so that you’re equipped to make a verifiable presentation to your boss’s boss. Or, if applicable, try the employee assistance program at your workplace.

There are treatments that can treat bvFTD, including talk therapy, anti-addiction programs and antidepressant medications.

Candice B. asked why being narcissistic is deemed such a bad trait.

We reported: According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, someone with a Narcissistic Personality Disorder sees himor herself as exceptional; requires the approval of others; has no ability to empathize, recognize or identify with others; has superficial relationships that only exist to serve self-esteem; exhibits pathological personality traits of antagonism and feelings of grandiosity, entitlement and selfcenteredness.

What YOU can do: If you know someone who suffers from NPD, cognitive behavioral therapies and medications can help establish new patterns of behavior and unravel the deep-seated causes of this mental illness. In other situations, smile and walk away.

—

Mehmet Oz, M.D., is host of “The Dr. Oz Show,” and Mike Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer and chair of the Wellness Institute at Cleveland Clinic. Email your health and wellness questions to youdocsdaily@sharecare.com.

ADVICE

Dear Heloise: My dog was chewing on her skin and feet.

She is on flea and heartworm preventative, so I was perplexed why she was so uncomfortable. I tried skin creams and balms, and these did not work.

HINTS Then I made an appointment FROM with the veterinarian. Oh my HELOISE goodness! What a relief — literally.

After the doctor examined my dog and asked me some questions, she decided that the right choice for us was a prescription oral medication. Immediate relief. We are all so happy.

We may do some testing to see if my dog has food allergies, but for now she is happy and healthy. Thank you for your column! — Elizabeth Z. in San Antonio Testing is key. Readers, make sure your doctor has the resources to test for all kinds of allergies.

— Heloise Hello, Heloise: Just a friendly reminder to consider donating used bath towels to your local Humane Society or private animal shelter. Did you know you also can donate nonexpired pet medications (flea meds, shampoos, etc.)?

You can donate unopened packages of gauze pads/bandaging as well. Your donations are greatly appreciated to help those pets in need with items that the Humane Society might not be able to afford to purchase.

Call them first; most have a list of items they accept. — Mary A., Vancouver, Wash.

Also check to see if the shelter lists its needs on its website. — Heloise Dear Heloise: When it was cold and dry outside, my long-haired tomcat, Toby, used to look like a porcupine!

I figured that if fabric softeners worked on my clothes, maybe they would work on him. I took a used fabric-softener sheet and rubbed his fur with it. He was himself again! And he smelled great! — Velma, via email —

Send hints via email to heloise@heloise.com or via post to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000.

TODAY’S HOROSCOPES BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS ARIES (March 21-April 19) Be good to those in close connection and they will be good to you. Just because a family member is in a bad mood or involved in a tiresome task does not mean that you aren’t loved and appreciated.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Consider where you have come from and compare it to where you are now. Be grateful for your blessings.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) A smile can pave the way. “Forgive and forget” should be your motto, especially if you have had a tension-filled week.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) Rustle up your roots. Explore the family tree and make fascinating discoveries about ancestors.

There may be more than one surprise waiting for you related to your health or job.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) Rise to the surface. You’ve been drowning in your work and it’s time to come up for air. Take the weekend off and have a little fun. Both your mood and your performance will improve.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Simulate “Star Trek’s” Spock. In an illogical world, take pride in the ability to be logical. Work methodically behind the scenes.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) People may think you possess special talents or capabilities. Don’t disappoint anyone by promising more than you can deliver.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) You may be tempted to jump to a quick compromise to avoid conflict. It is better to maintain your position or you risk making matters even worse. Avoid spending money foolishly.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) This isn’t the right time to throw your weight around or push for the advantage. Sidestep squabbles and confrontations. Do not give in to fleeting obsessions or gamble with resources.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Don’t rock the boat. Whatever can go wrong may go wrong with newly launched projects, so adhere to usual routines.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Keep on plugging away. You shouldn’t give up on an ongoing project just because someone in authority is unpleasant or caustic.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) Pretend to be confident and fears will disappear.

Uncertainty and doubt might jeopardize a close relationship. Go out of your way to clear the air and be especially attentive to a loved one.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Jan. 7 Your objectives could be undergoing major re-evaluations as the next four to six weeks unfold. Carefully weigh options before reaching a final decision. March is the best month to make financial decisions, as your shrewdness is at a high point. The new hookup or romantic partner in your life might not be interested in a long-term relationship, but if you focus on friendship you will find that things will fall into place.

SATURDAY, JAN 7, 2017 I THE GAZETTE I HG 11

GOREN BRIDGE

WITH BOB JONES ©2016 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

weekly bridge quiz q 1 - Neither vulnerable, as South, you hold: ♠ 9 7 6 4 ♥ A k 4 ♦ A 10 ♣ A J 6 4

NOrTH eAST SOuTH weST 1♠ Pass 2♣ Pass Pass ?

2♥ What call would you make?

SOuTH weST NOrTH eAST 1NT Pass 2♥* Pass ? *Transfer to spades What call would you make?

q 5 - East-West vulnerable, as South, you hold:

q 2 - East-West vulnerable, as South, you hold:

SOuTH weST NOrTH eAST 1♠ Pass 2♣ Pass 2♠ Pass 3NT Pass ?

What call would you make?

♠ Void ♥ A k q J 10 9 8 2 ♦ 8 6 2 ♣ 10 2 Partner opens one club and right-hand opponent passes. What call would you make? q 3 - Both vulnerable, as South, you hold: ♠ Void ♥ k 10 8 4 ♦ A k 10 9 8 7 6 2 ♣4 As dealer, what call would you make? q 4 - North-South vulnerable, as South, you hold: ♠ 2 ♥ A J 10 6 ♦ A J 6 ♣ A q 10 5 2

AROUND THE HOUSE

Replacing furnaces and improving insulation

BY KEN MOON, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

♠Akq954♥84♦A95♣94

q 6 - Neither vulnerable, as South, you hold: ♠ A 10 9 7 3 ♥ q 5 ♦ q 6 ♣ A k 8 7 As dealer, what call would you make?

Look for answers on Monday.

(Bob Jones welcomes readers’ responses sent in care of this newspaper or to Tribune Content Agency, LLC., 16650 Westgrove Dr., Suite 175, Addison, TX 75001. tcaeditors@tribpub.com)

Dear Ken: I had my furnace replaced, but I’m not sure if they pulled a permit. Is it possible he got one without me knowing?

– Robert KEN MOON

Unlikely. You would have had to be home when the city inspector showed up to do the final compliance inspection after the work was done.

Virtually all building departments have an online database of inspections, sorted by address. If your furnace replacement is not listed, you should have the installation company obtain a permit and inspection now. If you let this go, then it will come up later whenever you sell your house.

Moreover, the inspector’s visit will verify that this work was done safely and in accordance with applicable codes.

Finally, here’s another reminder to make sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors outside all bedroom doors. I like the floor-level, plug-in variety, as it sniffs for this deadly gas near the floor — at about the same level as you and the kids when you’re sleeping.

Dear Ken: When I set a cardboard box on my basement floor it eventually leaves a circle of slat residue underneath. What do you think is going on?

– Alan

HELP US RAISE $1 MILLION

for our community by donating today.

Donate online at FillAnEmptyStocking.org or call 719-476-1673.

HG 12 I THE GAZETTE I SATURDAY, JAN 7, 2017

Evidently there is water vapor evaporating through the concrete. This moisture is a signal that soil conditions underneath your house are saturated with surface water that has crept underneath the floor. Take a hard look at all your drainage systems outside — particularly the downspouts. They probably need to be extended farther away from the foundation — ten feet minimum. Also make sure that the soil around the perimeter of the house is sloped properly — at least one inch down per foot away. Finally, check the window wells. If they are leaking around the edges where they meet the house, water can quickly migrate under the basement floor.

In the meantime, elevate cardboard boxes off the floor with pallets or use plastic storage tubs. And if you ever finish this basement, use hard flooring, like vinyl planking or ceramic. Avoid wood; it will buckle and swell in no time.

Dear Ken: I would like to paint over my vinyl covered sheet rock. It also has batten strips which I would like to remove. How should I prepare the walls?

– Maggie Older water heaters develop small areas of mineral deposits on their insides — especially in rural areas where the water can be extra hard. Because these points have a relatively large — though microscopic — surface area, they provide small boiling points as the water is heated.

That’s what makes some water heaters sound like tea kettles. There’s no harm here, but this is a good time to remind you to perform a basic test. Gently lift up on the lever on that pressure/temperature relief valve. Let water flow through until all the rust and scale deposits are flushed out of the valve and the output runs clear.

That way, you’ll be assured that the valve will be ready to protect the tank from any over-pressure condition.

Dear Ken: The front of my house has a 30 inch overhang, and the bedroom in that corner is cold. How can I warm it up?

– Laura Check the insulation above this area.

Breezes wafting through this rather large overhang may have pushed some of it aside. You want at least 15 inches of blown material — fiberglass or cellulose — on top of the ceiling. Finally, if you have gable vents in the attic — the ones that are cut into the side walls — make sure to block up the most northerly-facing one until spring. That will keep heat-sucking wind from blowing through.

Ken Moon is a home inspector in the Pikes Peak region. His radio show airs at 9 a.m.

Saturday and is carried on KRDO, AM 1240 and FM 105.5. Visit AroundTheHouse.com.