Hack your spring cleaning
Decorating
WISDOM from the pros
Everything Home 4 Nursury trends
THE SUN TIMES NEWS Publisher Robert Nester
6 Tips from a pro
7 Wash away winter
Managing Editor
10 Backyard birds
12 Sprucing up
Advertising Director
14 Keeping character
17 New kind of home
Designer
18 Layered lighting
20 Mower maintenance
22 Six key repairs
24 Kitchen upgrades
26 Decorating wisdom
27 Spring flowers
29 Cleaning hack
Wendy Wood
Tom Hamilton
Jerry Boggs Everything Home is a special publication of The Sun Times News to help promote local community businesses. We are a locally owned newspaper serving 6 communities in 4 counties. With a distribution of over 25,000 and a readership on nearly 90,000 we are the largest free newspaper in Washtenaw county. Visit our web site at www. thesuntimesnews.com or call us at 734-648-0837 for local news contributions or advertising.
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nursery design trends you’ll love
now and later
When you’re decorating a nursery, it makes sense to design a room that pleases you as much as it will thrill your little one — after all, you’ll be spending as much time in the room as your baby, if not more! You crave a room that you can love for its beauty and functionality, but you also want it to be trendy and fun. Here are four nursery design trends that can help you create a room that fits your design tastes and will thrill your little one:
Whimsical woodlands An earthy trend is bringing the great outdoors into nursery design. A woodland theme in a nursery is the perfect stepping stone to get imaginations spinning and curiosity for nature growing. There is a warmth and coziness that comes from nature-inspired decor. Think fuzzy animal mobiles, natural wooden accents, and a whimsical birch tree wall mural from Murals Your Way to create a space where you’re little one will feel calm and peaceful. Not only are thousands of nursery friendly options to choose from, parents can upload their own image to create a one-of-a-kind space- for their one-of-akind bundle.
Pastels are back Soft colors and baby’s nursery go together like peas and carrots, so it’s no surprise that pastels are back and better than ever! On the heels of Pantone’s announcement of not one, but two pastels, Rose Quartz and Serenity as colors of the year, this trend is legit. These shades add a slight twist on the traditional pink and blue: Rose Quartz is a softer pink with a hint of peach, and Serenity is a periwinkle blue with shades of lavender pushing through. Other popular pastels are lilac, lemon drop and pale green as seen on Babyletto’s new Bingo 3-Drawer Changer Dresser, which has pops of pale green accents.
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Creative cribs Traditional nursery furniture has long included a crib, changing table and a rocking chair where parents can sit for those late-night feedings. Today, parents are thinking outside the crib when choosing furnishings for their baby’s room. Cribs can be a design statement instead of just a place where baby sleeps. From minimalist cribs with slender railings that evoke a graceful, modern air, to acrylic cribs that afford parents a completely unobstructed view of their little ones, parents are branching out from traditional wood frame cribs. You can also find oval and round cribs, like the convertible Stokke Sleepi Crib/Bed, compact and portable bassinets that can go from baby’s room to fitting neatly next to adult beds, and cribs that convert into toddler beds when your baby becomes a child.
Gender-neutral nursery He or she, what will it be? If you’re planning to be surprised by your baby’s gender, design a gender neutral nursery that works for either a boy or a girl. Moving away from the standard yellow or green for “surprise” babies, start with a color palette using subtle tones, like heather gray, beige and rich charcoal. To avoid “boring,” layer in lots of texture and organic materials like natural wood furniture, linen curtains, fluffy pillows and soft rugs like the RH Baby & Child chunky braided wool rug in cream. A plus with this trend is that you can pair this gender-neutral palette with accessories of any color, should you want to add in a pale pink or navy blue blanket after the baby’s arrival. BPT
Buying Or Selling A Home? Tips From A Professional
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or those who’ve been on the fence about selling their home, now may be just the time. Dennis O’Hare, Associate Broker/Manager for Real Estate One in Saline and Ypsilanti, says 2016 has started off strong for sellers. “If you have a good house that’s priced right, it’s gone. We’re even starting to see bidding wars again,” O’Hare said. An unseasonably warm winter is helping 2016 shape up to be potentially even busier for realtors in Washtenaw County than last year, O’Hare said. 2014/15 marked a positive shift away from homeowners being “under water” with their mortgages, meaning the mortgage loan balance owed by the homeowner is no longer higher than the free-market value of the home. O’Hare has recently seen surges particularly in empty nesters downsizing to ranch-style homes and condos, and landlords selling their rental homes. For sellers who want to tip the scales in their favor, O’Hare strongly recommends hiring a professional photographer to take photos of the home. Homes showcased in professional photographs sell significantly faster than, say, homes highlighted with photos taken from a cell phone, he said. Having professionally-rendered f loor plans available to prospective buyers is also key to selling a home faster, as is attaching a home warranty to the deal. One more thing, says O’Hare: less is more. Clutter is a huge turn-off to
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buyers, so “when in doubt throw it out.” In fact, hiring a professional home stager is well worth the front-end cost, he said. And yes, go ahead and bake the chocolate chip cookies before a showing. Buyers who want an edge on the competition must have their loan preapproval ready, O’Hare said. In today’s market, they need to know what they want, be decisive and ready to act. They also need to know that once an offer is made, all is not settled. The home inspection process is an unpredictable one and buyers ought to be
prepared for surprises. Sellers and buyers should plan on the closing process taking a minimum of 45-60 days due to new mortgage disclosure rules implemented in October 2015. A seller or buyer’s realtor should be familiar with the new TILA (Truth in Lending Act)RESPA (Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act) Integrated Disclosure Rule, which arose from the DoddFrank Act passed in 2010 to, in part, prevent another disastrous housing bubble burst. By Melinda Baird
Wash Away Winter Grime
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onths of harsh weather conditions can take their toll on your home and outdoor features, such as decks, sidewalks and even your lawn furniture. Often all it takes to get these items spruced up and ready for spring is a serious scrubbing with little more than a pressure washer to remove dirt and grime. When you gear up to wash away the winter, take stock of the entire outdoor area to make your plan of attack: Windows and siding. Storm after storm leaves plenty of dirty residue on your home’s exterior, glass surfaces and exterior walls alike. Before you begin, inspect windows and siding for dents, gaps or holes that may allow water to enter. Rather than climbing up a ladder to clean second-story windows — a dangerous endeavor — a pressure washer with second-story capabilities is a smart solution. Exercise caution, as too much water pressure can damage windows, seals and siding. Start by standing farther away (at least 5
to 6 feet) from your home and aim toward an area without windows to test the pressure of your spray. Hold the nozzle at a 45-degree angle, spraying down toward the window if cleaning at ground level and up and to the side if spraying the second level so you avoid getting wet. Driveways, decks and patios. Concrete and brick driveways, sidewalks and patios, as well as wood decks, can take a real beating from the ice and snow, as well as shoveling and any chemicals you use to remove them. Before you can identify damage and make repairs, it’s a good idea to thoroughly clean the surface. Use a power washer in high-pressure mode, starting at a distance and moving closer until the desired effect is achieved. To finish the job, rely on the exclusive high-flow mode of
cleaner attachments are affordable and use dual highpressure, rotating jets for fast cleaning of large, flat surfaces.
Briggs & Stratton’s pressure washers with POWERflow+ Technology to deliver up to five gallons of water per minute, efficiently rinsing away dirt, soap and debris. Further the cleaning effort and connect a surface cleaner accessory to the pressure washer. Surface
Grills. Nothing signals warmer weather like the smell of dinner on the grill. Get ready for your taste of the new season by scrubbing away months of buildup. For gas grills, disconnect the tank and any electric lines before you begin. Open the hood, remove the grates and treat the entire grill with a degreasing solution, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Work from the top down to rinse away residue. Let the grill dry thoroughly and coat it with a nonstick oil
to prevent future build-up. Outdoor furniture, planters and play-things. Left outdoors, patio furniture, planters and children’s outdoor play sets acquire layers of dust and grime during months of disuse. A power washer with variable nozzle settings allows you to safely transition from heavyduty cleaning to more items such as glass-top tables and light-weight chairs, flower pots and toys without damaging or blasting these items across the yard. With a little elbow grease and the proper tools, you’ll quickly find your home’s exterior fresh and ready to enjoy for another season outdoors. Find more tips to help wash your way to spring at briggsandstratton. com. Family Features
Tips to Attract Beautiful Birds to Your Yard When hosting neighbors and friends for spring gatherings, your thoughts may dwell on accommodating guests. But how often do you consider your animal visitors? “During spring, flocks of birds migrate and are looking for places to refuel and rest” says Spencer Schock, Founder of WindowAlert, makers of bird-friendly products for homes. “A few small tweaks to your yard, is like placing out a welcome mat.” Unfortunately, migration is not without peril or hardship, but Schock says turning your home into a refuge for birds can be fun and add beauty to your yard. He offers these tips to keep feathered travelers safe during
their migratory journey. • Bed and Breakfast: Birdfeeders come in all shapes, sizes and styles, and simply adding one to your yard can help beautify it and give birds the energy needed to continue their flight. Remember though, bird strikes are often a problem near bird feeders, as feeding birds are easily frightened and are apt to take wild, evasive flight; position feeders closer than three feet or farther than 30 feet from windows. If your feeder is close to the window, birds fly
away from the house. Believe it or not, the safest type of feeder is the kind that attach to the window itself. You can also make your home’s outdoor spaces more bird-friendly filling your garden with the right plants and flowers for pollinating bird species. • Watch and record: Grab a pair of binoculars and a field guide book and take note of the types of birds you see and when. This will help you become better prepared for next season. In addition, consider becoming a ‚“citizen scientist‚“ by submitting your observations to The Audubon Society and Cornell University’s database at ebird.org. • Protect flight: Millions of birds die annually by striking glass, making windows a hazard to birds in flight. Try applying special decals that reflect ultraviolet sunlight to your home’s windows, particularly those windows that are highly reflective of open sky. The decals won’t affect your view because they’re
virtually invisible to humans, but will help keep birds safe. For example, those from WindowAlert have patterns that give the appearance of slightly frosted translucent glass, but glow like a stoplight for birds. The brand also makes a high-tech liquid called WindowAlert UV Liquid, which can be applied between decals. Such ultraviolet decals have been scientifically proven to keep birds safer. A 2015 American Bird Conservancy Study found that the more WindowAlert decals that were applied to a piece of glass covering the departure point of a flight tunnel, the more birds avoided it (a net protected all the birds in the study from actually getting hurt, no matter where they chose to fly). For more tips on making your home and garden a bird haven, visit WindowAlert.com. “By making a few simple modifications to your yard and home, you can assist birds on their long journey,” says Schock.
StatePoint
S
pring is Here
Time to Spruce Up Your Outdoor Space When the weather warms up, it’s all about relaxing outdoors. But it’s possible you’ve neglected upkeep on your home’s outdoor spaces during the chilly months of winter. To enjoy yourself more this season, take time to spruce up your yard. Here are some quick tips.
“For your toughest jobs, add it to your pressure washer,” says Devlin. Helpful cleaning tips can be found at MeanGreenDegreaser.com.
Routine Maintenance
Do a Survey Take a walk around the perimeter of your patio, deck and yard to survey what needs to be cleaned, repaired or replaced. Did potted plants and lawn ornaments survive the cooler months? Are outdoor light fixtures functioning? Are fallen branches littering the yard? Make a mental to-do list.
Deep Clean Like interior spaces, periodic deep cleans are necessary outdoors too. But don’t waste your leisure time.
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“With the right tools you can work smart, not hard,” says Jeff Devlin, host on a popular home improvement channel. “A heavy-duty cleaner, such as Mean Green Degreaser, not only works indoors, but is ideal for my tough outdoor cleaning jobs.” Devlin recommends using the Super Strength multi-surface formula — which is lab-tested to
clean and remove grease, grime, mildew, dirt, and oil more effectively than its competitors — to clean and remove mildew from patios, outdoor furniture, concrete, composite and wood fences and siding, as well as to clean and degrease tools, lawn equipment and grills. Use it as a concentrated spray or diluted solution. Clean with a brush or sponge.
Perform routine upkeep to keep items from falling into disrepair or becoming overgrown or unkempt. Sweep walkways and your deck regularly, especially if they are situated under trees. Promote a healthy lawn by mowing it regularly, never removing more than one-third of the grass blade. Keep gutters devoid of leaves and debris so that water does not collect in your yard or at the base of your home’s structure. Rinse patio furniture, umbrellas and awnings using water or a diluted cleaner. Spring is in the air. With a little effort, you can be prepared to make the most of it. StatePoint
Lightly colored cabinets and countertops will make a small kitchen space feel larger, according to Nicole Curtis, star of HGTV’s “Rehab Addict.”
Not every home renovation is a complete do-over. In fact, some projects are more about preserving the character and charm of the original structure than making everything shiny and new. A self-taught home rehabber, licensed real estate agent and designer, Nicole Curtis, star of HGTV’s “Rehab Addict,” has made an art of introducing the comforts and conveniences of modern living while restoring homes to their former glory. Whether you’re giving new life to a historic treasure or simply sprucing up a more modern home, there are many ways to retain features that keep the integrity of the original design intact while keeping your renovation budget under control.
Flooring
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Updating tired, worn flooring is an important way to make a room feel fresh and inviting. Remember that much like fashion trends come and go, so do popular styles for home decor. The dingy carpet you can’t wait to tear out may actually be covering a hidden gem — original hardwood floors. Many homeowners rush to rip out old flooring at the first sign of damage, Curtis said. Her advice: approach your renovation with a “what can I save” rather than a “what can I lose” mentality. Damaged sections of wood flooring can be patched using reclaimed wood from other parts of the house or even the attic. A good sanding and a fresh coat of stain can leave you with a beautifully imperfect surface filled with character that simply can’t be bought.
Heating and Cooling Systems Adding a temperature control system to a home or considering how to integrate an addition into an existing system can be a daunting proposition. In those cases, not only is a ductless system one of the easiest options for improved home comfort, it also preserves the existing structure and architectural integrity of a home. “No ductwork makes my life so much easier,” Curtis said. “There’s less time and money spent on finding ductwork space and installing the systems, so we no longer have to sacrifice design.” Installing a ductless system, such as those offered by Mitsubishi Electric Cooling & Heating, is a simple solution for eliminating window units and baseboard heaters that detract from the beauty and architectural essence of your home. There’s no need to tear through or lower ceilings to make space for ducts and no messy demolition is required.
Kitchen and Bath Two rooms that see the greatest attention in home makeovers are the kitchen and bath, and they’re also commonly the most expensive. In some cases, updates are truly necessary to keep pace with matters like modern plumbing. But before you make plans to gut a room, consider how you might repurpose the existing contents to fit your needs. In the kitchen, you may be surprised by how sanding and staining or painting the existing cabinetry transforms the space. Remember that lightly colored cabinets and countertops will make a small kitchen space feel larger, and you can bring pops of color into the room with the backsplash and decor. Especially if you’re rehabbing an older home, you may find a bath without a shower. In most cases, it’s actually fairly simple to convert a claw-foot tub with some plumbing improvements and the addition of a shower curtain. Tired tile and grout may simply need a thorough cleaning or you may be able to add paint for a fresh look. Approaching your renovation with a mindset of preserving the original elements as much as you can lets you save money while creating a home with a unique blend of the past and your own modern touches.
Living with Technology The construction is finished, the walls are painted and curtains are hung. But wait ... What’s that interrupting your perfect aesthetic? Today’s high tech homes come with plenty of convenience, but all those gadgets and gizmos can botch your sleek design. The thought of devices such as ductless air-conditioning units on the walls might be intimidating, but remember that microwaves, flat screens and thermostats were all once unfamiliar elements of the home landscape and today most homeowners barely notice them. Fortunately, many of these tech devices have been created with aesthetics in mind. For example, Mitsubishi Electric’s systems are available in a wide range of options to blend into the look and feel of your old home — ducted, ceiling-recessed and even cabinet-concealed floor-standing units. Technology also lends a new range of sounds to the household. Look for devices that keep operations whisper-quiet for minimal distractions. Family Features
Moving to a New Kind of Home For many, moving signifies an exciting adventure, a new beginning; but it can also prove stressful ― both physically and emotionally. Most of us face a transition at some point in our life; whether it’s moving from a childhood home, relocating for a new job, or selling your home and moving into a retirement neighborhood. Deciding when to move can be equally difficult. The folks at Silver Maples, a retirement neighborhood located in Chelsea, understand these feelings firsthand and offer some insight into this special kind of move. Rosemary, who moved to Silver Maples with her husband Bob in 2013, noted that while the transition can have its difficulties, it was fairly easy to adjust to life in their new home: “Originally, we didn’t think we would be moving anywhere. It took quite a while to reduce a 2,800 square foot home down to a two-bedroom apartment; but it was more time consuming
than emotional. It didn’t take long for Silver Maples to feel like home, and it was pretty easy to get acquainted.” A resident for the past nine years, Norma says the transition was an easy choice: “There was no doubt in my mind about coming here. When I was at my old home, living alone, I became ‘older.’ I feel younger at Silver Maples, because rubbing elbows is good. You become your own person again, with a different kind of control.” For others, the decision and the transition that followed was not an easy one. Helen, a resident of five years, noted: “The transition was difficult for me. We had a lovely home that my husband built with two acres and woods in the back ... but then the thought went through my mind ― as much as I loved my home, what would I do if I were there alone? So in the end, I feel very safe and grateful to be here.” Coming from all walks of
life and circumstances, the residents of Silver Maples have formed a strong community and are eager to help others through a life transition they all share. When asked if there was any advice they could give those considering a move like this, most emphasized the move should be made sooner rather than later. Christina Kim, Director of Marketing and a senior living consultant at Silver Maples adds: “Many assume this move is only done following the loss of a spouse ― why not make this move together? Together you select the perfect location, work through the downsizing and sale of your home, and begin to establish an expanded support system. There is tremendous comfort and support from residents and staff alike should a loss occur.” If you’re considering moving to an independent living villa or apartment, Silver Maples offers a VIP Wait List program to provide
a smoother transition. The program includes monthly dinners with current residents, special outings, and a complimentary stay in their two-bedroom Silver Maples VIP Suite. The program allows those interested in living at Silver Maples to get to know the current residents and experience the community firsthand ― giving them the opportunity to establish friends before moving in. “A move, regardless of where you go, is a process,” says Christina. “We find that this process on average takes roughly 18 months, much like transitions people make in their younger years. The key is to start investigating options well before you think you’re ‘ready’ to consider a move. You’ll know when the time is right.” For more information on Silver Maples and how to join the VIP Wait List Program, call 734-475-4111 or visit silvermaples.org. By Alison Krueger
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Spring 2016
Evertything Home
Layer Lighting for a Picture Perfect Home
Almost any room can be transformed into a picture-perfect space by lighting it based on the room’s configuration and focusing on its aesthetic features and blind spots. According to the American Lighting Association (ALA), appropriate interior lighting will reduce shadows, highlight textures and draw attention to just the right areas. Until recently, conventional lighting techniques relied heavily on a select few types of lighting in a room. Now, however, LED lighting — deemed safer, sturdier and more durable than CFL light bulbs by the Department of Energy — is becoming a go-to lighting source for all areas of the home. Three layers of light Layered lighting focuses on three main functions: general, accent and task lighting. A wide wash of light
is usually emitted by a ceiling light for general illumination. A decorative layer of light might come from wall sconces or a table lamp. For specific tasks, pendants and undercabinet lighting are a couple of examples of appropriate lighting. The concept of layering the three lighting types remains true, but the idea behind layering itself is changing as much as the light sources themselves are. A constant in any residential lighting project is making sure it results in an area in which you will actually want to spend your time, says Terry McGowan, ALA director of engineering. To guarantee that you enjoy a room, the lighting should be easy to navigate and easy on the eyes. This is usually the job of ambient (general) lighting. To complement all-purpose lighting, LED lights have traditionally been used in the subsequent layers of accent and task lighting. It is with accent lighting that LED lights may be most useful. For example, “track lighting
is often used for accent lighting so the lighted area can be easily adjusted in size, color or direction,” says McGowan. “Note that some new types of LED track lighting can be adjusted by hand to change the color or size of the light beam, and there are even fixture types with built-in adjusting systems that can be operated by a remote control or a cell phone app. “For all layers,” McGowan continues, “consider controls that not only turn the lighting on and off, but dim it as well. LEDs can be easily dimmed, and, almost as easily, their color can be controlled so that the lighting can match the time of day or the preferred appearance of the space.” Using adjustable lights ensures that a room can uphold a unique design element, yet will not be overly flooded with light. For more about how to use LED lighting in your home, please visit your local ALAmember showroom or go online to americanlightingassoc.com.
Proper Maintenance Will Keep You Mowing Strong Every lawn mower requires routine maintenance to keep it running with efficiency and maximum performance. If a breakdown occurs or parts wear out, it’s much more cost-efficient to simply replace the worn parts than it is to buy a whole new mower. To keep your mower functioning optimally, consider the following.
Regular Maintenance Follow your manufacturer’s suggested maintenance schedule. Check your owner’s manual or your mower brand’s website for information on when and how to maintain your machine, including checking and changing engine oil and filters, hydraulic filters, belts, air cleaners, spark plugs and more. This upkeep on your mower can prevent unscheduled downtime and costly repairs.
Replace Parts Wisely “Modern mowers are designed to function as a system; they aren’t just a collection of parts,” says David Martin, customer service manager at Exmark, a leading mower manufacturer. While virtually any company can sell parts that are almost
right for your machine, Martin advises using original parts from the mower manufacturer. Brands such as Exmark, for example, extensively test every part and accessory for hundreds of hours to ensure they won’t compromise the safety, productivity or durability of the mower, or the quality of cut it provides. “There is great value in using genuine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, as opposed to cheaper ‘will fit’ alternatives, when replacing belts, blades, filters, lubricants and other mower parts,” says Martin. To learn more about the differences between using generic replacements from an aftermarket company and OEM parts, visit www.exmark.com/ OriginalParts. Whether you mow your lawn often or just a few times a season, be sure to take good care of your mower, paying attention to the suggested maintenance routine. It’s always better to prevent a problem before it becomes an issue. And doing so will improve the quality of each cut and extend the life of the machine. (StatePoint)
Spring Cleaning 6 Areas to Repair, Replace and Refresh
Spring is one of the most popular times of year to clean up your home inside and out, make renovations and take steps to ensure it operates efficiently for the rest of the year. But after the long winter months, the list of projects can pile up. This year, focus on six key areas to repair, replace and refresh around your house now — to avoid spending more time and money later.
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Repair your roof and gutters. Inspect the roof to check for loose or cracked shingles. Also, be sure to look at indoor ceilings for any signs of water leakage and get started on repairs before more damage occurs. Take a look at the gutters to see if there are areas in need of repair as well, and tackle them now before there’s too much rain.
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Repair and reseal your deck. Remove debris and sweep the deck clean. Fix broken or bent boards and pushed up nails. Choose a cleanser formulated for your deck surface — whether for wood or composite — and apply a new coat of sealer and stain. A local home improvement center can advise you on formulations for your particular needs.
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Replace your furnace. As you make home upgrades, this is also a good time to upgrade your furnace for greater home comfort and lower energy bills. For example, the extremely efficient American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning’s Gold S9V2 Gas Furnace is just 34 inches high
by 17-1/2 inches wide — compact enough to fit in tight spaces, like a closet or basement. And with a 96 percent gas efficiency (AFUE) rating, it’s one of the most efficient furnaces on the market.
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Replace windows and doors. Older windows can let unwanted air and moisture into your home. Installing newer, more efficient models will not only save money on cooling in summer and heating in winter, but they can bring the look of your home up to date. Replacing your front door in a great color and style can also add to your home’s efficiency and instantly add curb appeal.
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Refresh with paint. There’s nothing like a new coat of paint to transform and update the look of a home. It’s also one of the easiest and most economical home improvement
projects you can undertake. Check out your local paint store for ideas and suggestions to help you visualize your home in fresh new colors.
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Refresh your indoor air. The spring and fall months can trigger allergies, so consider adding an indoor air cleaner. An American Standard AccuClean whole-home system, for instance, can remove up to 99.98 percent of airborne particles and allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mildew, pet hair and dander and fungus and bacteria, so everyone in your home can breathe easier. Lastly, renew your commitment to home maintenance by creating a yearly schedule of home projects. Mark your calendar with target dates to remind yourself to complete key tasks — including what to focus on for the next season, before the colder months arrive. BPT
Upgrade Your Kitchen in Time for Summer As temperatures rise, many homeowners begin contemplating upgrades and home repairs. The kitchen is one of the most common rooms for these efforts, but if a full-fledged renovation is out of your budget, you can still make a noticeable difference in other ways. “Many homeowners think about creating their dream homes at the start of spring,” said James Coyle, president of home appliances at Sears, which sells the top 10 appliance brands, including Kenmore. “With the guidance and expertise of trained professionals, it is easy to achieve the kitchen you’ve always wanted and also protect your appliances throughout the year.”
Revamp your kitchen One of the fastest ways to give your home an elevated look without the need for costly remodeling is the addition of stylish new appliances, which can lend a beautiful,
professional kitchen design and luxury performance at an affordable price. A stainless steel range is a good starting point for a sleek new kitchen look. Another upgrade that can add functionality to your kitchen is a convection microwave, which, in addition to warming, can bake and roast foods for great meals in minutes. After preparing a meal in your new kitchen, clean up like a pro with a dishwasher featuring professional-grade details. In addition to purchasing new appliances, homeowners can easily create a new mood in their kitchens by replacing cabinets. Often, you can schedule a free in-home consultation with a licensed professional to discuss cabinet door styles, colors and hardware — such as hinges, knobs and pulls — and receive an estimate.
Protect your investment Regular maintenance of your new appliances can help prevent costly breakdowns, reduce energy costs and extend the life of your appliances. With an appliance check-up program, qualified Sears technicians can inspect your refrigerator, dishwasher and oven/range/ cooktop for proper functioning, wear and tear, water and gas leaks, clean refrigerator condenser coils and more. Service is available regardless of the brand or where you purchased your appliances. Another way to plan ahead for breakdowns is to invest in a home warranty that helps pay for the repair or replacement of the vital systems and appliances that keep your home running.
Family Features
Spring Decorating Wisdom
from your local team of
Professional Designers When it comes to home decorating everyone wants to know the scoop on the latest trends in colors, furniture and styles that will wake up our homes for spring. The four Interior Designers at Merkel Furniture and Carpet One have put their heads together to give you advice on the latest tips and trends: Kristen: Color trends seem to follow economic trends.As we are seeing an economy that is coming back, the colors that are trending are bright with more intensity: Pinks, lavenders and brighter persimmon tones. We are seeing bright florals — plant-inspired patterns — with more background showing. We are not recommending decking out an entire room in a big or heavy pattern, however, rather using it on one or two furniture pieces that will be the focal point of the space. In the bedroom we are seeing exciting floral patterns in a bedspread or throw. This is an inexpensive way to transform the room to a fresh spring palette. Jennifer: We are also seeing a trend of mixing and matching old and new furniture and items throughout the home.One example, is a big trend this year is the tufted back sofas with decorative nail trim .It’s a perfect contrast of old and new again on one piece of furniture. We have some great examples in the store, to see and touch, and they can be special ordered for your specific needs. Cecilia: If you are looking to re-furbish your floors this spring, one trend we are seeing is reclaimed wide plank flooring.There are many colors, woods and textures available. We also are recommending area rugs with large patterns that fall off the edge with no border and nubby wool or other natural fibers.Their neutral hues create the perfect indoor/outdoor vibe, while softening bolder colors and dramatic statement pieces. These rugs feature a thread that is “looped”, which adds texture to your space and that adds interest. Wendy: Also in flooring, we are seeing that the trends in tile are shifting to encaustic tiles, which are intricate patterned tiles that get their coloring from different kinds of clay rather than glazes.You can think of decorating with these tiles throughout the home for accents. Kirsten: Ergonomics are always in fashion and the Ekornes Stressless line of sofas and their line of lounge chairs have been endorsed by the National Chiropractic Association.
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People fall in love with their Stressless chairs — it’s crazy. Bright colors like their Tomato and Clementine are accenting a room painted in neutrals. Geometric design accents, which are hot this year, will go well with the bold colors of the Stressless furniture. Jennifer: The eco-friendly designs, natural materials, recycling decoration and naturefriendly environments will be key in 2016 and beyond. The Harden line of live edge tables are beautiful and they achieve the goal of ecofriendly production. Harden is a family owned, sustainable company, with their own 10,000 acre black-cherry forest. For eco-friendly flooring options, Merkel carries the Karastan line of eco-friendly carpeting called SmartStand.SmartStrand is made in part with annually renewable plantbased materials that minimize our usage of limited natural resources.It is soft, beautiful, durable, and yes, eco-friendly. Alison: There is recent interest in a 70’s inspired trend toward art deco patterns of geometric and symmetrical textiles, floor tiles, and furniture pieces. Specifically we are thinking honeycomb, concentric circles and hexagons. Also “in” this year are art deco metallics like gold, silver, chrome, copper or brass (don’t be afraid to mix them.) This year, mixing and matching is encouraged. Have fun with the possibilities. Wendy: For spring and summer we are recommending Sunbrella fabrics both inside and outdoors. These fabrics are fade-resistant, easy to clean and have high wearability. They are beautiful! We carry a line of outdoor wicker furniture, Lloyd Flanders, which features the Sunbrella fabrics which will enhance your outdoor space for summer lounging and entertaining. The Professional Interior Designers at Merkel Furniture can set up an appointment to come to your home. We will measure and consult with you so that your home is both harmonious with the latest trends and fit your style and budget. Merkel Furniture and Carpet One, in downtown Chelsea for their furniture and flooring gallery, 734-475-8621, and in Ann Arbor for their flooring gallery, 734-971- 2795. Merkelfurniture.com. By Alison Krueger
Sensational Spring Flavors Brighten up your spring family gatherings with the sweet flavors of the season. You can prepare a delicious brunch for your family or bring a fun dessert to your next gathering without having to take away any of your time enjoying the outdoors. Spring is also the perfect time to introduce new twists on classic desserts that will impress your loved ones. Dessert combinations, like a classic cheesecake laced with sweet cherries on a buttery chocolate chip cookie crust or a brunch-perfect cinnamon French toast with your favorite features of an apple fritter, are sure to be the talk of your family’s table.
Overnight Apple Fritter French Toast Casserole Recipe courtesy of Kate of I Heart Eating Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 45-55 minutes Servings: 12 1 package (24 ounces) thick-sliced cinnamon bread, divided 1 can (21 ounces) Lucky Leaf Apple Premium Fruit Filling and Topping 9 large eggs 1 cup fat-free half-and-half 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 cup powdered sugar 1-2 tablespoons milk Grease 9-by-9-inch baking dish. Cube cinnamon bread and add half to prepared baking dish. Add fruit filling over bread. Cover fruit filling with rest of bread cubes. In bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half and cinnamon. Pour evenly over bread. Cover and chill overnight. Heat oven to 325 degrees. Uncover and bake for 45-55 minutes. If it starts to brown too much, tent aluminum foil over casserole. Let cool in pan for about 10 minutes. Whisk together powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon milk, adding more as needed to make pourable glaze. Drizzle glaze over casserole just before serving.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Cherry Cheesecake Pie Cook time: 67-82 minutes 1 roll (16.5 ounces) refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough 2 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened 2/3 cup sugar 1 egg 2 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cans (21 ounces each) Lucky Leaf Regular or Premium Cherry Fruit Filling, divided Heat oven to 350 degrees. Press cookie dough evenly into bottom and sides of deep dish (2inches deep) 9-inch pie plate. Bake 12 minutes. Cool completely. While crust is cooling, prepare filling. In large bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg and vanilla until smooth. Stir in 1 can of cherry fruit filling. Pour filling into cooled crust. Bake 55-70 minutes, or until filling is set and golden brown. Cool. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Top with remaining can of cherry fruit filling. Family Features
Hack Your Household Chores with Vinegar
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iping away the grime of winter doesn’t have to mean launching an attack with dangerous chemicals. As you tackle this year’s spring cleaning chores, take a note from Mother Nature and rely on the cleaning power of a surprisingly effective natural product: vinegar. During the last century, vinegar has become increasingly recognized as a low cost and eco-friendly household product. From cooking and canning, to cleaning items indoors and out, homeowners are discovering that this eco-friendly, acetic liquid is as versatile as it is useful. “Cleaning with vinegar has always been an effective way to banish dirt and grime in kitchens, bathrooms, the garage and the outdoors,” said Mike
Smith, executive vice president of sales and marketing at Mizkan Americas, the makers of Four Monks Cleaning Vinegar. Despite its strong cleaning power, vinegar does have one downfall: its distinctive odor. You can experiment with dozens of DIY recipes online to overcome this dilemma, or you can rely on a store-bought non-toxic cleaning vinegar such as Four Monks, which is made from a proprietary process that reduces the strong aroma and leaves a clean, crisp scent. Discover more uses for cleaning vinegar at VinegarTips.com.
In the Kitchen Clean off the blades of a wellworn can opener with an old toothbrush soaked with vinegar to help remove dirt and grease. Clean your ice/water
dispenser by running vinegar through the system. Flush the vinegar out by running water through the system for 30-60 seconds. Rid your dishwasher of mineral buildup by pouring half a cup of vinegar into the reservoir and running an empty cycle. You can also use vinegar in the dishwasher instead of another glass cleaner to keep your glassware sparkling. Renew sponges and dishrags by placing them in just enough water to cover them. Then add one-fourth cup of vinegar and let them soak overnight. Remove dark stains on an aluminum pot by boiling two cups of vinegar. For stained and smelly plastic food containers and lunchboxes, wipe them with a cloth dampened with vinegar. To clean a grease-splattered oven door window, saturate it with vinegar. Keep the door open for 10-15 minutes before wiping with a sponge. Deodorize the garbage disposal by pouring in half a cup of baking soda and half a cup of vinegar. Let sit for five minutes then run hot water down the disposal. Avoid using toxic chemicals where you store food; wipe up spills in the fridge with vinegar.
In the Bathroom Rid a faucet of lime deposits by tying a plastic bag containing one-third to onehalf cup of vinegar around it and leaving it there for two or three hours. Wipe down with a sponge and scrub any remaining deposits with an old toothbrush. The same approach can be used to remove buildup on a showerhead. The fizzing combo of vinegar and baking soda can unclog and remove odor from a tub drain. Pour half a cup of baking soda in the drain, then follow with two cups of hot vinegar. Immediately plug the drain with a rag to keep the bubbles
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contained for 10 minutes. Rinse by pouring a kettle of boiling hot water down the drain. Spray shower doors with vinegar after you’ve squeegeed the glass — or before you turn on the water — to help release hard water deposits. Clean shower door tracks by filling them with vinegar and letting it sit for a few hours. Pour hot water into the tracks and scrub away any remaining film with a toothbrush. To make the toilet bowl sparkle, pour in a cup or more of vinegar and let it sit for several hours or overnight. Scrub well with the toilet brush and flush. Remove old bathtub decals with vinegar heated in the microwave.
In the Laundry Room Remove coffee and tea stains
by flushing the area with vinegar, rinsing and repeating. For wine stains, saturate the spot with vinegar and allow it to stand for several minutes. Then, wash as normal. Tip: For more delicate fabrics or precaution,
What Is Vinegar? Vinegar is the acetic liquid that results when a product containing sugar is allowed to ferment. Vinegar can be created from nearly any product containing sugar; fruit and grains, such as barley and corn, are common sources of vinegar. The ingredients in vinegar depend on the type of vinegar produced. test on an inconspicuous part of the garment first. Restore yellowed clothing by soaking garments overnight in a solution of 12 parts warm water and one part vinegar. Wash
them the following morning. Soak new garments in a few cups of vinegar for 10-15 minutes before washing to stop dyes from running in the wash. If frequent ironing has left your iron plate dirty, make a paste from one part vinegar and one part salt to scrub it clean. Remove scorch marks from an iron by rubbing it with a warm solution of equal parts vinegar and salt. If that doesn’t work, use a cloth dampened with vinegar. Forgot that you left wet laundry in the machine and it now smells moldy? Pour a few cups of vinegar in the machine and wash the clothes in hot water. Then run a normal cycle with detergent to rinse the clothes. Prevent lint from clinging to clothes by adding half a cup of vinegar to the wash cycle. Family Features