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2015 How To Guide

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A helpful guide on how to do just about anything

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June 26, 2015

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How to ... Choose a private school 2

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amilies who send their children to independent schools say they are looking for individual attention, small classes, teacher excellence, and high academic standards. Simply put, they want the best for their sons and daughters and are willing and able to pay for it.

The U.S. Department of Education’s National Educational Longitudinal Study confirms that larger percentages of students in independent schools are enrolled in advanced courses than in public schools.

According to the National Association of Independent Schools, NAIS students: 4Do twice as much homework as their counterparts; 4Watch only two-thirds as much television; 4Are significantly more likely to participate in varsity or intramural sports; and 4Are more likely to agree that students and teachers get along well, discipline is fair, and teaching is good.

But choosing the right school from the many available can be a daunting task.

NAIS recommends that before you visit CMYK

2015 How To Guide

your first school, you should sit down with your family and determine your “ideal” educational community: 4Is it small or large?

4Traditional or progressive?

4What special programs (arts, sports, computers) does it offer?

4Is a diverse school community important to you and your family?

4Does your child have special needs or interests?

After determining your needs and reviewing the options available, you are ready to start narrowing your choices. If you haven’t done so already, contact each potential school for materials dealing with philosophy, curriculum, extracurricular offerings, admission process, and financing options.

NAIS recommends asking the following questions as you look at each school’s materials: 4Is the school accredited and by whom?

4What is the school’s mission and does its philosophy appeal to you?

4Does the school have a special or particular educational focus?

4Are academics rigorous?

4Is the environment competitive? Nurturing? Are there high expectations?

4Does the school meet your child’s needs?

4How large is the school and its student body?

4Where is the school located and what are your transportation options?

4What variety of learning experiences are available at the school — in class, on the playing field, in extracurricular activities, and in community service? Are extracurricular activities obligatory?

4Does the school seem to have a diverse

student body and faculty?

4Do the school materials discuss parental involvement?

4For high schools, what are the graduation requirements? What percentage of students enter colleges, and what kind of colleges do they attend?

4Is college counseling effective? (Look at rates at which school grads achieve their first and second college choices.)

4What is the tuition and how flexible are the school’s financing options?

4What is the school’s application process? Are deadlines drawing near?

On your own, write down additional questions and notes. Consider starting one sheet of paper per school. That way, you will be able to easily look up questions that are pertinent to the school you are visiting.

Choosing the right school for your child is likely the most important single decision you might make in terms of setting the proper path and direction for life: A little preparation and research on the part of parents will go a long way toward making the choice simpler.

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How to ... Choose the right dentist 2015 How To Guide

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hoosing the right dentist will go a long way toward helping you maintain your health and appear-

ance.

Whether you need a routine cleaning or a complex dental procedure, finding the right dentist will save you time and money. No one wants to have a root canal redone because of shoddy work.

It is vital that you find a dentist who makes you feel comfortable, someone who will help you improve your dental health in a hygienic environment.

Finding a dentist near your home or workplace will help you make your appointments on time. As well, their office hours should accommodate your schedule.

So how should you start your search?

First, ask your social network for recommendations. Friends, family and colleagues can be a great resource.

Searching on the Internet for dental offices in your area will also help. Professionals often have their own websites,

which include the backgrounds of those working there. The website may also tell you about how they handle procedures and appointments, as well as specialized services they offer.

Once you have gathered a list, begin calling each prospective dentist. You can talk to a receptionist or other staff person if the dentist is unavailable.

Check that he or she has earned the necessary degree from a reputable school and is current on all licensing and continuing educational requirements.

Ideally, he will be familiar with the latest dental technologies and trends.

Ask if the dental office provides emergency services. If you break a tooth or need to have a root canal done right away, it is vital to find an available dentist.

Lead time for appointments is another consideration. Some offices might be able to see you right away, while others may have a three-week wait time.

Your prospective dentist should accept

your dental insurance. If not, you may need to cross that person off your list.

If you have no dental insurance, inquire about payment plans. The office should give you an estimate before performing any work.

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When someone meets all of your requirements, visit the office. The staff should be professional and friendly. Every dentist should be willing to answer all of your questions.

Some people are afraid of dentists or pain. If you have any concerns, communicate with the staff and dentist. Many professionals are willing to go above and beyond to help you work through these issues.

A basic oral health history should be taken by the dentist or staff. They should tell you about future treatment and prevention options. A quality dentist will help you feel comfortable during your visit. If you experience anything less, cross that person off your list.

The best dentists offer friendly, happy dental experiences.

Teeth are extremely important to your overall health. They can also help or hinder your appearance. Finding a good dentist is like finding a friend who consistently brings out your best smile.

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How to ... Discuss your aging parents’ needs 4

2015 How To Guide

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ore than 90 percent of older adults want to age in place. The dilemma arrives when trying to convince your mother or father they cannot do all that they have been doing since before you were born.

Here are 10 essential building blocks to a successful talk with your parents when you notice they need help.

Develop a plan that is agreed to by all influencers before there is a crisis.

Discuss your concerns with siblings, your parent’s friends, and your parent’s doctor.

Explore suggested solutions to understand the cost, pros, cons and other options.

Obtain consensus on what the solution is.

Ensure you explore who, what, when, why, how and cost. Be aware that old sibling rivalry may rear its head during this time.

If a unified consensus cannot be reached, then clearly define each solution, along with the pros and cons of each one, so they can be presented to your parent as choices. Adult children must present a “united front,” so agree not to debate the merits of any idea during the talk with your parent.

Meet with your parent at a non-emotional location, such as your home or a friend’s home. Have all decision makers there.

Avoid having this discussion during the holidays or dates that are particularly emotional for your parent.

Clearly explain the problem. Do not blame, become emotional or demanding.

Do not present your solution at this time.

Simply explain your concerns. If there are multiple concerns, then express only one of them and move on.

Ask your parent what she thinks the solution is. Listen. Make note of your parent’s solution. If it’s different than the solution you have, request some time to look into it. Do not get baited into a merit discussion about the idea at this time, especially if your family is rife with sibling rivalry.

Repeat until all concerns have been discussed.

During the discussion, make sure you truly listen to your parent. Acknowledge concerns, fears and even anger she may express toward your intervention. Give her a chance to express herself, and ask who, what, why, when and how in a non-confrontational way. Be prepared to accept your parent’s solution, even if you’re certain what your parent wants to do is not going to work. Your parent is an adult and has a right to choose. She even has the right to be wrong and to make bad choices, just like the rest of us.

Your parent’s solutions may be more

palatable to her, or she may be so bent on trying it that she will not accept your solution at all. If this is the case, then table your solution for a later meeting after you and other influencers have had a chance to explore your parent’s reaction and suggestions. Only bring up your solution, at this time, if it seems like the right time to discuss it as an option.

Discuss finances. You need to know where your parent is financially. Too often parents delay getting care until after a serious injury or hospitalization. Often reasons for not spending the money are a desire to preserve their children’s inheritance or they believe the service is too expensive.

Although most people have to live within a budget, getting your parent the proper

care at the right time can enhance and extend their lives, may prevent serious injury or death, and keep them living in their home longer, which is where they want to be.

Have this discussion before you are facing a crisis in care for your parent. If your parent continues to be resistant to the idea of assistance, then it may be helpful to bring in an authority figure the parent respects to aid you in getting agreement. Often your parent’s priest or doctor can break through

‘During the discussion, make sure you truly listen to your parent. Acknowledge concerns, fears and even anger she may express toward your intervention.’ these barriers.

Although many adult children attempt to care for their parents themselves, there are numerous studies that show how utilizing professional home care leads to a longer period of independence, as well as better mental and physical health for both you and your parent.

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How to ... Choose a pest control company 2015 How To Guide

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veryone has problems with pests occasionally. Sometimes the solutions are simple, such as removing trash or securing screens on the windows.

But occasionally an invasion can become unmanageable. It may even threaten the structure of your home.

From ants to termites and wasps, the right pest company will handle the problem.

Here are some tips to help you search for a company in your area.

A list of companies Your first step is to make a list of companies in your area that provide services you need.

Check the newspaper or ask friends, family and businesses in the area who they use to keep pests away.

Next, research each company’s background. Look at customer service reviews.

Shorten the list of possible providers, and then contact the Better Business Bureau by phone or email. Ask if the companies have any complaints filed against them.

You might also note if the Better Business

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Bureau has granted accreditation to any companies.

Types of treatments Narrow your list further by contacting the companies directly. Ask them what kind of chemicals they use when treating a residence. Powders, sprays and other forms vary dramatically in effectiveness as well as toxicity.

If you have children or pets, this issue is an urgent concern. Some treatments are toxic to people and animals. Poisoned bait, for instance, is a method that homeowners with children or pets should avoid.

Companies should have solutions for these situations. Some companies offer environmentally friendly, non-toxic alternatives, such as naturally based compounds that will not harm children or pets. These treatments might include citrus-based agents and trap-based rodent control.

Research Prior to contacting anyone, educate yourself about common pests in your area.

Check to see if these pests are on your

property. You might find evidence such as droppings or other indications that they are in your yard or home.

Look on the Internet to discover which solutions are used to control these pests.

Some cities or communities have laws regarding pesticide applications. There might be regulations concerning licensing and insurance for pest control companies.

Now, contact the service providers for more detailed information about prices, processes and other information. You should call at least two different businesses so you can compare services.

The company you choose should do a free, full inspection of the property before providing services. Accompany the workers as they check your property, both inside and outside.

Listen to their sales pitch and ask questions. Reliable, reputable business should always answer your questions honestly.

Finally, trust your instincts. If the workers seem inexperienced or you don’t trust their information, look elsewhere.

A quality pest control company will not only help you with your current situation, it will also prevent future flare-ups. You can take comfort knowing that this is one problem someone else has under control.

How to ... Choose a skilled nursing facility M

ore and more Americans are faced with questions about how to care for family members — or for themselves — as they grow older. Assisted living facilities provide an ideal solution for people who can’t quite manage on their own, but do not need extensive medical care; skilled nursing facilities are best for people who require regular medical attention.

Depending upon where you live, there may be anywhere from two or three to more than 100 nearby facilities to choose from. Having choices is a good thing, but as you explore your options, keep in mind that all assisted living and skilled nursing facilities are not created equally. This fact is especially crucial if your loved one requires significant medical attention.

The Consumer Consortium on Assisted Living offers the following 10 tips for choosing the appropriate assisted living facility.

4Make an accurate and honest assessment of your physical, financial, mental and lifestyle needs.

4Visit as many facilities as you can to get a sense of the choices in your area.

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4Narrow down your selection to the top two or three choices, and then return to those facilities and ask lots of questions.

4Ask to review a copy of the Resident Agreement (facility contract).

4Ask to review the licensing or certification inspection report.

4Call the long term care ombudsman program and ask if there are complaints about the facilities you are interested in.

Contact the ElderCare Locator at 1-800677-1116 or www.eldercare.gov to find your local ombudsman, who advocates for assisted living and nursing home residents.

4Make an unannounced visit to the facilities you are interested in. Talk with the residents and their family members about the facility.

4Ask what conditions or circumstances may result in the need to relocate or move to another facility.

4Ask what the baseline fee is and what services are included in that fee. Ask about additional charges for services and products.

4Choose the facility that comes closest to your needs.

Specialty care needs Among the elderly, the need for respiratory care, such as long-term oxygen therapy or ventilator-assisted breathing, is extremely common. These health issues call for specialized attention from experts like respiratory therapists.

If proper respiratory care is one of your concerns, be sure to consider what respiratory therapists say about selecting a quality skilled nursing facility. Skilled nursing and assisted living facilities can be excellent solutions to long-term care concerns — just be sure you choose the right one!

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2015 How To Guide

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Back Row left to right: Allen, Robert, Fairren & Rex

Front Row left to right: Virginia Leigh, Kathy & Donna

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2015 How To Guide

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How to ... Choose a veterinarian 8

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2015 How To Guide

ost people think of their pets as members of their family. In fact, some people even refer to them as fur children. That’s why finding a veterinarian or veterinary clinic is so important.

You need to find qualified care to ensure the long-term health of your pet.

But in a difficult economy, pet care might get overlooked. Routine care might even seem unnecessary. After all, don’t humans skip medical and dental check-ups if they seem like they’re in good shape?

Unfortunately, pets age faster than human beings. Their bodies and internal systems can change rapidly, sometimes in a matter of a few months. When you take your pet to his doctor regularly, you can catch an illness in its beginning stages. As you know, catching a disease early can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Routine veterinary care will help ensure your pet lives a long and happy life.

Choosing a good veterinarian that suits you and your pet can seem like a difficult task. If you follow these guidelines, you should be able to find a professional that

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will give your pet the best care possible.

Ask for referrals Your family and friends may know a good veterinarian. Listen to their experiences with a critical ear. You need to find someone who is professional, compassionate and timely. Ask specific questions, such as whether the clinic staff likes animals. Do they respond to concerns in a timely manner?

Research veterinary and veterinarian clinics on the Internet. Make a list of prospective candidates, and then check with the Better Business Bureau in your state to see if there have been any complaints against these professionals. How were the complaints resolved?

Some people need extra services, such as daycare, boarding facilities and pet training. You may also need to have your pet groomed. Find out if the prospective veterinary clinic provides these services.

Make a visit After making a list of choices, visit the veterinary office or clinic. Call ahead and request a tour of facilities. The staff should

have the time to answer your questions.

You should see a clean and well-maintained office. Observe how the staff interacts with clients and pets. Are they warm toward the animals and owners?

The employees should have an affinity for animals.

Sit in the waiting area and introduce yourself to other clients. Find out if they are happy with the services and staff. Also, inquire about prices to verify it is within your budget.

If you feel uncomfortable during your visit, consider taking your services elsewhere.

Finding the best vet for you and your pet will take time and research. You should put the same effort into finding a doctor for your animal as you would in finding one for yourself.

The bottom line is that your pet’s health is a cooperative undertaking between you and your veterinarian. Finding the perfect vet for you and your furry, scaly or feathered friend will ensure your pet is with you for years to come.

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How to ... Afford to live to 100 2015 How To Guide

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ere’s an interesting statistic: Over the past three decades, the centenarian population in the United States has grown about 66 percent, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Of course, this doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll live to 100, but the possibility may not be as remote as it once was. In any case, if you plan to retire in your mid-60s, and you are in good health, you may well have two or three decades ahead of you.

To enjoy this time to the fullest and to help avoid outliving your financial resources you will need to invest for income and growth throughout your retirement years.

As a retiree, how much income do you need from your investments? There’s no one “right” percentage for everyone. Furthermore, you shouldn’t have to rely solely on your investment portfolio, because you may have other sources — such as Social Security and your employer-sponsored retirement plan — from which to draw income.

Nonetheless, your investments can play a big role in providing you with the income you’ll need during retirement.

Many retirees depend on fixed-rate investments for a good portion of their retirement income, so it’s a real challenge when interest rates are low, as they have been for the past several years. Consequently, when you retire, you’ll need to be aware of the interest-rate environment and the income you can expect from these investments.

Longer-term fixed-rate vehicles may be tempting, as they typically offer higher rates than shorter-term ones, but these longer-term investments may have more price fluctuation and inflation risk than shorter-term investments.

You’ll likely need a balance between short-, intermediate- and long-term fixed-income investments to provide for a portion of your income in retirement.

You can’t ignore the need for growth, because you won’t want to lose purchasing power to inflation. We’ve experienced quite mild inflation recently. But over time, even a low rate of inflation can seriously erode your purchasing power.

To illustrate: If your current monthly costs are $3,000, they will be about $4,000 in 10

years with only a 3-percent annual inflation rate. And in 25 years at that same rate, your monthly costs will have more than doubled, to about $6,200.

To help protect yourself against inflation risk, you should consider having at least some investments that offer growth potential, rather than only owning fixed-income vehicles.

Some investment vehicles, such as dividendpaying stocks, can offer both growth potential and current income. In fact, some stocks have paid, and even increased, their dividends for many years in a row, giving you not just income, but rising income.

Keep in mind, though, that companies are not obligated to pay dividends, and can reduce or discontinue them at any time.

To determine the right mix of growth and income vehicles for your individual needs, consult with a financial adviser who is familiar with your retirement plans, your risk tolerance and your family situation.

And it may well be a good idea to plan for a very long retirement. You may not live to be 100, but it would be good to know you could afford to do so.

Having More Retirement Accounts is Not the Same as Having More Money.

When it comes to the number of retirement accounts you have, the saying “more is better” is not necessarily true. In fact, if you hold multiple accounts with various brokers, it if you’re properly diversified.* At the very least, multiple accounts usually mean multiple fees.

Bringing your accounts to Edward Jones could help solve all that. Plus, one statement can make it easier to see if you’re moving toward your goals. *Diversification does not guarantee a profit or protect against loss.

To learn why consolidating your retirement accounts to Edward Jones makes sense, call your local financial advisor today.

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How to ... Choose an auctioneer 10

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2015 How To Guide

f you are liquidating a business, selling off an estate or raising money for a good cause, then consider using an auctioneer.

Auctions are fun for the participants and host. It is a fantastic way to make a profit.

When searching for an auctioneer, there are a few things to consider.

Auctioneers specialize in auction types, so look for the right one to fit your needs.

Many auctions are personality-driven events, so be sure you select an auctioneer who is gregarious and personable.

This person must have the gift of speech, a touch of humor and the ability to develop a rapport with the audience.

The success of your auction will depend on how much the auctioneer can establish a relationship with the audience. After all, he will entice bidders to

participate. A great auctioneer can make a sale or entice people to bid on unattractive items.

Look for an auctioneer at an auction house. The best auctioneers are independent contractors with skills and a long track record of experience.

You can also utilize the Internet or your local newspaper to find a qualified auctioneer. Most newspapers have an auction section in their advertising section. If you use the Internet, be sure to visit the website of a certified institution. Not every site lists credentialed auctioneers.

If you’ve exhausted these sources, contact the National Auctioneers Association or visit their website, www.auctioneers. org. Many auctioneers belong to professional organizations such as the Certified Auctioneers Institute, or CAI.

‘Be sure you select an auctioneer who is gregarious and personable.’

By hiring an auctioneer with this certification, you can know he or she has had extensive training. Auctioneers with this certification are also held to a higher standard of integrity.

While it is important to use a professional, especially for large events, sometimes it can be difficult to find a person in your area. If you can’t find a professional, look

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for someone in your community with charisma.

Sometimes a well-known person can also draw people to your event. Your potential auctioneer should undergo some training in the overall auction process.

There are often logistics that must be explained beforehand.

When speaking to candidates, be sure to ask for references and work history.

Verify licensing and check that they are actively working auction events.

Once you have a list of finalists, attend an auction and watch them perform. Pay attention to how they handle attendees and the pacing of the event. Take notes on each auctioneer. Once you have narrowed your list to one or two candidates, perform a background check and obtain reliable references.

After you have completed this process, you can relax and have fun alongside the participants of your event. The right auctioneer will not only be entertaining, he or she will get the job done with ease.

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How to ... Choose a standby generator 2015 How To Guide

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ith the ravages and power outages of Superstorm Sandy still fresh in their minds even after nearly three years, many homeowners will be considering adding automatic standby generators to protect their homes in the event of extended power outages.

Experts encourage homeowners to have an emergency power plan in place so they can stay put during prolonged power outages if not instructed to evacuate.

When severe weather strikes, it may take a utility company days or even weeks to restore power. Many folks in Suffolk and the rest of Hampton Roads remember well from Hurricane Isabel what it’s like to be without power for weeks during the summer.

A permanent standby generator can provide automatic, whole-home power

during extended outages.

When the power shuts off from the utility, a standby generator automatically turns on and can power all the major systems and appliances in your home.

A standby generator is fully automatic and permanently installed outside with a direct connection to the home’s electrical system, similar to a central airconditioning unit. It runs on propane or natural gas and is connected to the home’s fuel lines, meaning the homeowner does not have to be physically present to start up the generator and fuel it.

A standby generator works in tandem with an automatic transfer switch that continuously monitors utility power.

When power is lost from the utility, the switch automatically transfers the electrical load to the standby generator. The

‘When severe weather strikes, it may take a utility company days or even weeks to restore power.’

transfer of power to the standby generator usually takes 10 seconds or less, and the homeowner does not need to be present during the process.

Standby generators can provide up to 20,000 watts of electricity. These are wired into the electrical system of your home and can keep several electrical appliances operating at once, depending on generator size. Permanent generators

typically run on propane.

Prior to purchasing an automatic standby generator, consumers should fully investigate their options and consult with a local power professional. Key features to consider include: a commercial-grade engine that provides clean, consistent power and can handle heavy loads; a non-corrosive enclosure (especially in areas with salt water); and a minimum five-year warranty.

Do not connect the generator to an electrical system without a transfer switch that disconnects the home from the power line and connects to the generator.

The wiring system must be isolated from the power lines to prevent the generator from feeding electricity back into the power line. This protects linemen who may be working to restore your service.

A generator installation is not a do-ityourself project. You’ll need to hire a professional electrician to make sure the job is done right, to make sure it’s safe and to make sure the necessary permits have been secured.

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2015 How To Guide

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How to ... Choose the right landscaper 2015 How To Guide

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well-landscaped yard, cared for by a professional, will increase the value of your home and property.

There is nothing like looking out the window to see beautifully maintained grass. Blooming flowers, rocks and moss will give your surroundings beauty and a feeling of warmth.

If you are in the market for a landscaper, consider these tips.

Types of landscapes There are usually five types of landscaped yards. Each requires the landscaper to have a different skill set.

It is best to determine which landscape appeals to you before you begin your search for a quality professional.

4A formal garden uses many geometrical shapes in its design.

Plants provide a focal point, making the yard appear balanced. To achieve this design, a landscaper will need to carefully prune hedges.

4An informal landscape looks like organized chaos. Plants appear to be placed randomly.

Landscapers who use this design should be skilled at working with planters and urns.

4The English garden landscape uses the house as its focal point. All aspects of the yard will flow together. Professionals who use this design should be skilled at working with climbing vines, critical to this style.

4Oriental designs use rocks, mosses and evergreens. Calmness and quiet minimalism tend to be the effect of this style.

4To create a woodland design, the landscape must have great knowledge of native plants and making them look their best.

Set your budget 4Cost is always a concern

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when hiring a home improvement specialist. Set a budget and stick to it.

4Understand what you can afford and are willing to spend annually on your landscaping.

It will help you prioritize your list so you can at least get your necessities.

4You might need to make sacrifices. If you need a new landscaping wall, you might have to delay getting a sprinkler system. On the other hand, if irrigation is a must, then you might need to cut back on how often your lawn is mowed each month.

4Even if your budget is tight, don’t get discouraged.

Some landscapers may charge less in order to get your business.

Prioritize your needs Determining what you need will help you decide which services you require from a landscaping company. Most professionals offer weekly or monthly lawn and garden maintenance, weed control, tree pruning and shaping, garden installations, inspection and maintenance of irrigation systems and possibly even the construction of retaining walls or other structures.

Get referrals Neighbors are sometimes the best way to get referrals. If you like what you see in their yard, ask them for their company’s name. Discuss the pros and cons of the service. You can even watch the company perform work. It will give you an idea about their employees’ work habits.

You could also do an online search for landscaping companies. Be sure to read reviews from prior customers. If you see many negative reviews for one company, move on to the next one on your list.

‘Neighbors are sometimes the best way to get referrals. If you like what you see in their yard, ask them for their company’s name.’

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How to ... Be safe with HVAC work 14

2015 How To Guide

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s the temperatures drop outside and financial pressures heat up, many homeowners are turning to unlicensed HVAC contractors to repair their heating systems, a situation with the potential for serious physical and financial dangers.

The use of unlicensed contractors is an increasing trend tied largely to the struggling economy. As more professionals are being laid off, they are offering to do handyman jobs cheaply on the side. At the same time, homeowners are also struggling financially, and looking for the type of discounts an unlicensed contractor can offer.

Although the cheapest price or going with “a buddy’s friend” might sound good, the results can be devastating.

Improper installations — which can entail incorrect wiring, improper venting, undersized ductwork, invalid warranties and a lack of guarantees — can be hazardous to your HVAC system, can result in uneven and inefficient heating and cooling and can even be fatal.

There are five key questions for homeowners to ask when looking for qualified HVAC contractors: 4Is the contractor licensed by the state?

Many states have websites listing the contractors and the licenses they hold.

4Does the contractor have the right license for the work being performed?

4Is the contractor a certified member of a professional organization? To obtain a designation of “NATE (North American Technician Excellence) Certified,” for example, contractors must pass a rigorous test.

4Did the contractor provide references, and have you solicited proposals to compare not only the cost but also the specific work to be performed and the materials used?

4Is the contractor fully insured and bonded? This includes workers compensation insurance and general liability insurance for damage to your home or injury to the homeowner or the contractor’s employees.

Relying on an unlicensed HVAC contractor may save you some money today, but the long-term costs could leave you out in the cold.

Bonus: How to save money on heating and cooling The warmer months are a great time to take steps to reduce your energy consumption at home, while saving money on cooling costs.

When it comes to conserving energy, many people think that transportation is the most energy-guzzling sector, but it’s not. Buildings are — and that includes your

home.

Accounting for 40 percent of energy use in the U.S., buildings represent a significant potential for reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, according to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

More than 80 percent of homes in the United States have air conditioning, and approximately 16 percent of residential electricity use is for air conditioning.

“You don’t have to sacrifice personal comfort to cut back on home energy use while saving some green in your pocket,” says Bill Harrison, ASHRAE president. “And since we’re currently facing dwindling energy reserves across the planet, reducing energy consumption in our houses also can go a long way globally.”

There are many ways you can save energy while keeping cool at home: 4Dial it up: During the day, set the air-

conditioning thermostat at 76 degrees or above, and move it a few degrees higher at night.

4Clean it up: Clean or change furnace filters every one to two months and have your system maintained according to manufacturer’s instructions. Dirty filters, coils and fans reduce airflow, which decreases performance.

4Insulate it: Adding insulation to your attic is the easiest, least expensive way to increase insulation. Insulation can be blown into wall cavities, especially in older homes.

If siding is to be replaced, add a layer of exterior insulation.

4Mind the ventilation: Use kitchen, bath and other ventilating fans wisely. Install a timer switch to limit the time an exhaust fan is on.

4Cover it up: In warmer months, close the drapes or shades on the east, south and west windows during the day to prevent the sun’s energy from heating

the room. The shade or drapery material should be reflective on the side facing the window.

4Duct, duct, loose: Have air ducts checked for leaks and holes. If you use duct tape to repair and seal ducts, use tape with the Underwriters Lab logo so it doesn’t degrade, crack or lose its bond with age.

4Get some shade: Shading from overhangs, awnings, exterior shades, shade screens and foliage can reduce heat entering the house, especially on east and west windows. Make sure landscaping doesn’t block the air.

4Keep your cool: Caulk, install weather stripping or use spray-in foams around windows and doors, on exterior walls or between cooled and unconditioned spaces such as garages, basements and crawl spaces.

For more energy-saving tips, visit www. ashrae.org/consumer.

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