Our House - Spring 2017 by TBR News Media

Our House

In Spring OUTDOORS

WHAT'S INSIDE: • Elegant outdoor lighting • Enhancing outdoor living space • Top gardening trends for 2017 • Budget-friendly landscapes • Backyard Koi ponds

PAGE S2 • OUR HOUSE • APRIL 27, 2017

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APRIL 27, 2017 • OUR HOUSE • PAGE S3

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Elegant outdoor lighting sets the stage for entertaining

According to the American Lighting Association, with a few updates to outside lighting, families can make even better use of their homes at night. Adding outdoor lighting is easier and less expensive than many homeowners may know, allowing them to transform an existing patio, deck or pool area into an enjoyable nighttime retreat. Pool parties, dinners on the patio or barbecues with neighbors become even more memorable when outdoor lighting is added or imOutdoor lighting can play up the more decorative proved. But homeowners who features of a yard, including flower beds. want to install or upgrade their outdoor lighting should consider is the season for making changes in and around the home. The arrival the following tips, courtesy of ALA. of warmer weather renews homeowners’ vigor for various home improve- Improve navigation ment projects, and many have grand plans Lighting is typically layered into a room for interior and exterior renovations as or outdoor space in three ways: overhead, they prep their living spaces for comfort, task and ambient. Even outdoors, where beauty and entertaining opportunities. there are no typical boundaries and borWhile there are many worthy projects ders, those three layers are necessary. to pursue, adding outdoor lighting to According to Cheryl Calcara of REVCO a home can help increase its value and Lighting and Electrical Supply in Miller make the home safer and more attractive Place, “outdoor lighting should create in the evening hours. a scene as well as highlight areas for

pass-through traffic. Low-lying bushes or small trees can be highlighted from underneath to make them appear in full color when dark to create a dramatic effect.” “You can also graze the walls on the front of the house or highlight a bush from above by placing a few wet rated recessed lights in the soffits,” added Calcara.

Add decorative elements Just as arbors, pergolas, patios and other outdoor elements help to enhance the style of an outdoor space, so, too, can lighting contribute to a well-designed landscape. Lighting should play up decorative features of a yard and add the ambience that homeowners desire. An outdoor chandelier can make for a wonderful accent during dinnertime on the deck or under a pergola. Patio lights provide atmosphere as well as illumination for cooking outside.

Outdoor chandeliers create a dramatic focal point over a dining table or seating area. Image courtesy of REVCO

Enhance security

Enhance views from inside

“If security lighting is your concern, then motion spotlights can be strategically placed on the property as well. Timers and dusk to dawn sensors are also a convenient option in most scenarios to illuminate your property whether you are home or not,” said Calcara. Be sure to aim lights away from the door to improve visibility, adds the ALA. Lanterns on either side of the door can give a home a warm, welcoming appearance and improve the safety of entryways.

Outdoor lighting can make the view from inside pleasant and enjoyable. Use a variety of lights, including spotlights on trees, lights dotted along pathways and accent lights on unique landscape features, to create an idyllic landscape visible from inside the home. Outdoor lighting enhances functionality of yards and landscapes while making such areas safer for homeowners and their guests once the sun has gone down.

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APRIL 27, 2017 • OUR HOUSE • PAGE S5

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Latest trends to enhance your outdoor living space

o matter the season or the region, outdoor living is more popular than ever, as homeowners look to “bring the indoors out” and create spaces that are true extensions of the home. The newest designs in outdoor living spaces do not simply feature the look of the indoors but the functionality as well. Regardless of the size of your deck — or budget — these simple tips can add interior function to your outdoor oasis:

Material matters Just because people are spending more time on their decks doesn’t mean they’re willing to put in extra hours for maintenance. Wood alternatives, particularly wood-plastic composites, are especially popular due to their low-maintenance features. Unlike wood, composite decking resists fading, staining, scratching and mold — and won’t rot, warp, crack or splinter. No sanding, staining or painting is required, and food and drink spills wash off easily with soap and water. The latest generation of composite decking also features wood-grain patterns and rich, saturated colors that look and feel more natural than ever before.

Railing redefined Even railings have taken on a more functional role in today’s backyards. One of the most popular trends is “cocktail railing,” which provides a flat surface for drinks and plates. By using a matching deck board to create a shelf for the top rail, you can achieve a look that complements your home’s deck, while making great use of space.

Lights, please Lighting is another “bright” idea for adding versatility to the outdoors. Lighting systems that incorporate deck lighting and other exterior lighting work together to create ambiance that can be adjusted for any setting. By choosing which outdoor elements to highlight, it’s easy to change the look of an outdoor living space without moving any furniture.

Connection protection The idea of enjoying a favorite show or movie outdoors has always been enticing, but not exactly practical. However, with advancements in both equipment and equipment storage, enjoying the big-screen experience in the great outdoors has never been easier. Electronics manufacturers now offer televisions and entertainment equipment specifically designed for the outdoors, taking into consideration differences in lighting and outdoor acoustics. Meanwhile, storage options now include durable, wall-mounted television and entertainment centers that beautifully conceal and protect pricey electronics from the elements.

Get cooking on your outdoor kitchen design!

f your idea of enjoying the great outdoors is relaxing on your deck with a tasty beverage while the grill heats up, you’re in good company. “The alfresco movement is transforming backyards across the country as homeowners create outdoor kitchens that finally live up to their name,” said backyard design expert Paul Lafrance of HGTV’s “Decked Out” series. “If you count yourself among the homeowners ready to undertake a deck upgrade, integrating interior kitchen ideas into your outdoor living space is a sure-fire way to bring fun, function and added value to your home.” In fact, an outdoor kitchen project can provide homeowners up to a 130 percent return on their initial investment, according to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. To help you cook up plans for an outdoor kitchen that truly sizzles, Lafrance suggests the following tips.

Start from the ground up A show-stopping outdoor kitchen needs a quality stage that can stand up to heavy foot traffic and everyday

kitchen mishaps such as dropped utensils or spilled sauces. High-performance, wood-alternative decking is durable and easy to maintain — just a simple soap and water cleaning can take care of any common party foul. “For me, composite decking is a nobrainer. It delivers the natural aesthetic of wood without the back-breaking and time-consuming upkeep, so outdoor chefs can focus on what they love most — preparing delicious meals and entertaining guests,” said LaFrance.

Think beyond the grill While outdoor cooking once meant a basic grill and a bag of charcoal, today’s outdoor kitchens are more elaborate and equipped than ever, featuring a range of appliances including professional-grade cooktops, refrigerators, sinks and dishwashers, as well as specialty features like brick ovens and fully stocked bars. Grills, too, have been upgraded to handle more than steaks and burgers — think whole turkeys, smoked meats and rotisseries. Your appliances will determine the outdoor kitchen dimensions, so consider how

the appliances you want will fit within your design.

Factor in function Plan for adequate storage to eliminate back-and-forth trips inside your house with pull-out trash bins and hidden ice chests for chilled drinks. “You can even get customized cabinets for televisions and entertainment systems, along with sink and grill bases designed to hide plumbing and propane hookups while also providing extra drawers,” Lafrance said.

Create comfort To welcome and accommodate your guests, your outdoor kitchen should be inviting and have ample seating and bar areas. For added comfort, integrate interior-inspired accents like decorative cushions and pillows made of weatherresistant materials. Additionally, your outdoor kitchen should incorporate sufficient counter space not only for food prep and serving but also for creating a communal environment so guests can chat with the chef.

PAGE S6 • FOCUS ON HEALTH • OUR HOUSE • APRIL 27, 2017

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Big-impact ideas for small patios

o you have a small patio? Do you think you can’t do much with the space due to its size? There’s probably a lot more potential than you think. From the influx of urban dwellers, empty nesters in transition and even the tiny-home movement, the trend of downsizing continues across the United States. Contrary to popular belief, you can have an impressive patio even if you have a smaller abode. Add visual interest under foot with a patterned rug. A rug properly placed under a table can break up a smaller floor, giving the illusion of more square footage. Colored rugs are readily available in a variety of designs. Pick your favorite striped, chevron or paisley variety and see what a difference it makes.

The natural elegance, gentle gurgle and sparkle of a flowing water feature can add a sense of peacefulness to any patio. For smaller spaces, easily turn a decorative waterproof container or planter into a beckoning water feature by simply adding water and a fountain pump. To get the most out of a limited space, think upward instead of outward. Hanging plants are a classic option, but vertical wall gardens are a top trend that’s sure to be a conversation starter. Succulents are an excellent choice for a vertical garden because they are hearty, they grow slowly and they come in a range of colors, sizes and textures. Blending a variety of these plants together to create a vertical garden will create instant interest to your space and they are easy to maintain. A vertical garden is an attractive and unique way to add a focal point to your patio. To get the most out of every inch of your petite patio, look for furniture and features that multitask to help save space while maximizing functionality. An easy solution is to opt for a table that opens to become a cooler for beverages or a bench to hold blankets and other patio extras. Just remember to keep scale in mind so you don’t overwhelm your space with massive furniture. Matching is out for 2017, so forget about perfectly paired combos and explore a variety of decor. A great way to try this trend is to add visual interest by experimenting with different materials. Inject your own personality through various finishes. One example: Consider setting black resin pots next to handwoven wicker for an eclectic blend of textures. Don’t make the mistake of thinking a small space must have muted colors. Vibrant hues inject energy and style, often making a small patio feel larger than it is in real life. From ocean blues to ferocious fuchsia, an accent pillow here and a throw blanket there will transform your space dramatically. From DIY water features to vertical gardens, a small patio doesn’t have to be short on style or functionality. Let these top trends guide you to create a space you’ll enjoy all year long.

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Bring the sights and sounds of water to your patio with a simple water feature.

APRIL 27, 2017 • OUR HOUSE• PAGE S7

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Exterior home improvements yield higher ROI for less money Roof replacement: A midrange roof replacement costs approximately $20,000 and returns nearly 69 percent of the investment. What’s more, a new roof helps protect your entire home from weather damage and can improve curb appeal. Composite deck addition: Costs vary, but recent reports estimate that at a cost of about $17,000, adding a composite deck delivers an ROI of 65.2 percent. Of course, the value of your deck will depend on many factors, including the quality of the building products you choose. Capped board composites are gaining popularity and feature striking color patterns for a visual effect that’s as appealing as the financial ROI of composite decking. Siding replacement: Another exterior feature that protects the whole home and greatly affects its curb appeal, new siding can cost around $14,500. When you sell your home, that new siding will recoup about 76 percent of your initial investment. Garage door replacement: Older garage doors may lack modern insulating qualities, and a shabby-looking door can drag down the look of your home. Replacing the garage door costs roughly $1,700 and returns nearly 77 percent of that amount at the time of resale. Exterior improvements like a new roof yield the best return on investment for the most modest costs.

enovation season is approaching. Do you know what home improvements will give you the best return for your money? Here’s a hint: Step outside. You might assume upgrades to interior spaces like kitchens and bathrooms have the best payoff, but most home improvements don’t return 100 percent of their value at the time of resale. Those that yield the best return on investment for the most modest costs are generally exterior improvements.

Interior projects like a minor kitchen renovation or bathroom upgrade return a decent percentage of your initial investment when you sell your home — about 80 percent and 65 percent, respectively, according to the latest reports. However, they can also cost tens of thousands of dollars. By contrast, exterior projects like adding a deck or replacing a garage door deliver similar high rates of return, but for far less cost. Adding a composite deck

European & American Kitchen & Bath Design

can cost around $17,000 and yield a return on investment (ROI) of more than 65 percent, while a garage door typically costs less than $2,000 and returns nearly 77 percent of your investment when you sell. According to a recent survey, six of the eight improvements with the best ROI were exterior projects, and their average payback was nearly 75 percent. Here are popular exterior projects that offer high ROI:

Steel entry door: The single exterior home improvement with the greatest ROI is also one of the cheapest and easiest to do. Replacing a wooden door with a steel entry door will run you about $1,400 and you’ll recoup more than 90 percent of that cost when you sell your home. Exterior home improvements not only enhance your enjoyment of your home and help maintain its security, they’re also the first things potential buyers see when they pull up to the curb. When you want to make cost-effective, high-ROI improvements, making exterior upgrades is money well spent.

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PAGE S8 • OUR HOUSE • APRIL 27, 2017

Know what’s below

OUR HOUSE

ith the snow melted and the ground thawed, many eager homeowners and landscape professionals across the country will roll up their sleeves and reach for their shovels to start projects that require digging this spring. Homeowners are reminded that calling 811 is the first step toward protecting you and your community from the risk of unintentionally damaging an underground line. Every digging project, no matter how large or small, warrants a free call to 811. Installing a mailbox or fence, building a deck and landscaping are all examples of digging projects that should only begin a few days after making that call. Your local one-call center will notify affected utility companies, which will then send professional locators to the proposed dig site to mark the approximate location of your lines. To find out more information about 811 or the one-call utility notification center in your area, visit www.call811.com.

The benefits of backyard koi ponds

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oi ponds can make for beautiful additions to landscaped backyards or home gardens. Ponds and water gardens can transform yards rather quickly and can add appeal to otherwise mundane yards and provide eye-catching, relaxing spots to sit and enjoy the scenery. These popular water features date back several centuries to Asia. Centuries ago, Chinese rice farmers began keeping carp in their rice paddies, foregoing the need for fertilizer and pesticides, and that practice eventually caught on in Japan. Some varieties of koi will live for over 50 years. Often referred to as “Nishikigoi,” koi are actually descendants of the common carp, although the koi of today are more brightly hued and ornamental fish than carp. Koi ponds provide some psychological benefits as the sound of the water can be soothing and relaxing. Sitting by the pond may help alleviate stress, as unwinding next to a pond and watching the fish swim by can help individuals decompress. Koi can become a low-maintenance family pet as they tend to grow accustomed to having people around and will often interact with visitors at the surface of the water. It’s not unusual to have the fish beg for food or take food from a person’s hand. When stocked with aquatic plants and other fish that can help keep mosquito larvae and other parasites at bay, koi ponds can sustain themselves quite nicely and they will also attract birds and beneficial insects, such as butterflies and dragonflies.

APRIL 27, 2017 • OUR HOUSE • PAGE S9

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Create a budget-friendly landscape for your home H Plants native to Long Island

omeowners understandably envy the award-worthy photo spreads in lawn and garden magazines, wanting to emulate those same looks on their own properties. Scores of designers and landscape architects are involved in the process of creating those amazing lush lawns and perfectly placed plantings. Although not every homeowner has the budget to create lavish landscape designs, it’s still possible for homeowners to create lawns they can be proud of. • Establish your budget. The first step in any project is to determine how much money you can devote to the job. Once you have established the budget, all other factors can be built around it. • Find an inspiration piece. Great landscapes are inspired by many things, whether it’s a memorable piece of art or a landscape layout in a lawn and gardening magazine. Use photos of other gardens or neighbors’ yards as inspiration and build off of them. As long as the theme is cohesive, it will look pleasing to the eye. • Consider the space and how you want to use it. Understanding the space will help you better allocate your budget. If your yard is more of a retreat, look for ways to create privacy and a vacation feel. If you have kids and entertaining friends is a main priority, focus on recreational aspects, such as a pool, playset and some durable plants. Understanding how to allocate your budget will help you to avoid spending money frivolously. • Think about reclaimed or repurposed materials. Brand new items can quickly eat up a budget. However, repurposing salvaged or inexpensive items can stretch that

budget while adding some unique flair to a landscape. See if you can find an outdoor patio set that someone is giving away or selling for a lower price. All it takes is a coat of paint and some new cushions to make it look like new. Discarded bricks or stones can be worked into a patio space or used to create raised garden beds. Purchase inexpensive flower pots and then paint them to make them look like stone or another desired material. • Buy native plants. Native plants, shrubs, trees and flowers will fare better than nonnative, exotic plants. That means you’ll have to spend less time and money nurturing them into health, and less money having to replace plants that cannot withstand your climate. See sidebar on right for a Long Island native plant list. • Consider perennial plants. Perennials may cost more at the outset, but the savings will be realized in the years to come. • Use gravel in spots where plants don’t thrive. Gravel is an inexpensive landscaping material that can fill in voids where plants or ground cover simply do not flourish. Those working on limited budgets may be happy to learn gravel is typically less expensive than concrete or pavers. • Ask friends or family for clippings. Don’t be shy about admiring the plantings of those you know. Flatter their good taste and ask if you can have some clippings to propagate yourself. These clippings can turn into lush plants in no time — with no additional spending required. With some frugal spending, planning and budgeting, anyone can create an attractive, beautiful landscape.

The cardinal flower, a favorite with hummingbirds, blooms from July to October on Long Island.

Bee Balm Cardinal Flower Butterfly Weed Common Milkweed Joe Pye Weed New England Aster Purple Coneflower Wild Columbine

Little Bluestem Wild Geranium Blue False Indigo Blazing Star Seaside Goldenrod New Jersey Tea Yarrow Northern Catalpa Butterfly Weed Trumpet Vine Eastern Redbud Pagoda Dogwood Spicebush Witch Hazel Hibiscus Hydrangea American Holly Winterberry Mountain Laurel Tulip Tree Magnolia Swamp Milkweed Switchgrass Phlox Black-Eyed Susan Pussy Willow Lowbush Blueberry

PAGE S10 • OUR HOUSE • APRIL 27, 2017

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Engage your child’s love of nature through bird feeding

s it difficult to pry your kids away from their electronic devices to get them outdoors? From tots to teens, today’s kids love their electronics. After all, where could you find anything to compete with the bright sights and sounds of their favorite video game? The answer may be no farther than your backyard and the brightly colored songbirds visiting during warm weather. Interacting with nature helps kids in many ways, from helping them understand science concepts and care for the environment to lifelong physical and mental health benefits. One of the easiest, most enjoyable ways for children to interact with nature is to feed wild birds right in their backyard. Tell children what type of location is best for a bird feeder, then let them hunt for the spot. Choose a location where a feeder can be seen from indoors (so they

can enjoy watching their feathered friends), yet is safe from predators. Let math and critical thinking skills come into play by measuring the distance from the door to the feeder and from the feeder to the nearest shrubs where predators could hide and trees where birds can shelter. Take the opportunity to teach the importance of good nutrition — for the child and the bird! Explain how good nutrition helps living creatures stay healthy and energized. Help them understand the nutritional value of food they eat by explaining what birds like to eat and how birds need a healthy diet of nutritious food options to support their health and well-being. Help kids understand wild birds have food preferences just as they do. Talk about how some birds like to eat bugs, grubs and worms, while others prefer berries and some like seed.

Bird feeders will attract beautiful songbirds to your yard. The feeder you choose will influence the kind of birds that visit. Many types of birds will visit a bowl feeder, and its open shape makes it quick and easy for kids to fill with any type of feed and clean. Giving children the task of filling and cleaning feeders can teach them responsibility and basic life skills, plus they’ll take ownership of the feeder and nurturing backyard birds. You can also use bird feeding to help kids understand concepts of finance, including spending their money wisely. Try an experiment with them; buy a bag of cheap birdseed, fill the feeder and watch what happens. Fewer birds will visit and a mound of waste -— the filler in cheap feed — will pile up under the feeder. Then replace the cheap feed with a better quality seed mix and observe results. Kids will see plenty more birds visiting and less waste under the feeder. The experiment can help teach kids that not everything low priced is a good deal. Ultimately, feeding wild birds should be fun for families. Here are some types of bird feed that should appeal to your children’s interests: * Suet: While today’s high-energy suet comes in different, convenient forms, like Nutberry Suet, and Suet Kibbles, kids will love the idea of serving up a big hunk of fat in the form of a suet cake. Kids can stick it directly on tree bark and branches, which they’ll find fun! * Seeds: Many songbirds prefer seeds. Serving high-quality seed, like black oil sunflower, can help attract songbirds. Learn more about seed mixes and birds who love them. * Dried mealworms: The early bird may get the worm, but birds, such as bluebirds, flickers and nuthatches, prefer a tasty treat like dried mealworms. Kids will get a kick out of filling up feeders with something yucky looking for their feathered friends.

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APRIL 27, 2017 • OUR HOUSE • PAGE S11

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Pools can be entertaining additions to a home.

Six things to consider before investing in a pool or hot tub

any homeowners feel pools or spas are must-have features as they attempt to turn their homes into their own personal oases. The decision to get a pool or a hot tub is not one to take lightly. Significant purchases, pools and/or spas can affect the value of a home and also require various safety modifications. Taking a thoughtful approach when considering adding pools and/or spas to their homes can help homeowners rest easy knowing they made the right decision.

1. Do your research first. When making any decision, it’s best to be well-informed. Read reviews on products and find out the base prices of certain pool models so you’ll have a system of comparison. Choose the type and size of pool you want. Other factors, such as the material used in the pool (i.e., concrete, metal, fiberglass or vinyl) and filtration methods, also can affect the price, so consider each of these factors carefully before making your decision.

2. Decide why you want a pool or spa. The type of pool or spa you ultimately choose should depend on how you plan to use the pool. If you want a pool mainly for family entertainment, then you may want to add mood lighting or special landscaping features. If you simply want something

in which you can cool off, a basic model may be most practical. If your spa is intended for therapeutic purposes, look for ones with multipositional water jets or other specialized features. Don’t fall into the trap that a large pool with a deep diving area is best. Young children and many adults do not frequently use the deep end, and you may end up with wasted pool space.

3. Find a good time to buy. Fall and winter are some of the best times to get deals on pool and spa equipment because it’s no longer prime swimming season. However, there are deals to be had come early spring as well. Retailers may deeply discount last year’s models to make room for new inventory. You always can negotiate if the price is just a bit beyond your reach. Retailers may be motivated to make sales in the off-season, so try to use that motivation to your advantage.

4. Recognize there will be extra costs. Some retailers sell pools and spas but do not arrange for installation. Realize that an in-ground pool will require excavation, and your yard may need to be regraded to allow for rain runoff. Electricians and landscapers are some additional costs to factor in. Make sure you understand the bigger picture and account for the total cost of modifying the yard.

Many hot tub models offer multipositional water jets and other specialized features.

5. Learn about zoning laws and other ordinances. Rules regarding pool placement and size will vary depending on local laws. Always consult with the town’s municipal office and get the proper permits. Otherwise, you may face fines and be forced to spend more to fix problems that need to be addressed.

6. Inquire about insurance. Speak with the pool installer about any liability and compensation insurance they may carry to protect you in the event of an accident during the installation of the pool. Reputable builders should be fully insured. When considering the addition of a pool to their properties, homeowners should take their time and make sure it’s the right decision for them.

PAGE S12 • OUR HOUSE • APRIL 27, 2017

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Did you know?

olar energy and harnessing the power of the sun for reasons beyond natural light is not a new concept. British astronomer John Herschel converted solar power by using a solar collector box to cook food while on an expedition in Africa in 1830. And in 1921 Albert Einstein was awarded a Nobel Prize for his work on solar and photovoltaic experimentation. By using renewable energy sources, such as solar power, one can greatly reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. This includes emitting 20,000 fewer pounds of carbon dioxide each year into the atmosphere, 50 fewer pounds of nitrogen oxide and 70 fewer pounds of sulfur dioxide!

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olar panels are seen more and more on roofs of residential homes and even some businesses. Due in part to more aggressive marketing by solar energy companies, as well as greater awareness by customers, solar energy has become increasingly popular in recent years. The Solar Energy Industries Association reports that solar energy in the United States is booming. The association offers that, since the passage of the Solar Investment Tax Credit in 2006, which was extended through 2021, solar has experienced a compound annual growth rate of more than 60 percent. While many might assume that environmental preservation is the driving force behind the growing popularity of solar energy, it’s actually the financial benefits of solar energy that are leading the way. A recent poll of nearly 200 solar homeowners to learn more about their motivations for going solar revealed that roughly 75 percent would not have gone solar if there was no economic benefit to doing so. A number of people who have switched to solar say they are getting a high rate of return on the investment. The average electricity bill a person saw prior to solar energy hovered around $177 a month. After the conversion, bills were now as low as $55. Recognizing that solar energy has so many cost benefits and so much potential in protecting natural resources, more and more homeowners are investigating the idea of installing solar energy systems in their homes. The following are some things homeowners should consider as they ponder whether or not to install solar energy in their homes. • Ideally, panels should face the southwest, but the direction of the panels isn’t as important as you might think. Panels can face various directions with acceptable results. Homeowners should not let the layout of their properties deter them from installing solar energy. • The addition of solar panels should not adversely affect the assessment value of a home, nor increase property taxes. • There may be different “tiers” of usage that determine utility companies’ rates concerning energy. The top tier may be removed from the billing formula when solar power is used in conjunction with an electric energy provider. Speak with a utility company representative to learn more. • Assess just how much energy you will need to determine which solar options will be available to you. In addition, make other changes around the house to reduce energy consumption, such as putting HVAC systems on timers, shutting off lights when leaving rooms, opening the drapes to let in more natural light and replacing traditional light bulbs with more efficient alternatives. Solar energy can be a viable option for homeowners looking to curtail costs and do their part to preserve the planet’s natural resources.

APRIL 27, 2017 • OUR HOUSE • PAGE S13

OUR HOUSE

Did You Know?

ome improvement projects can inadvertently expose homeowners to hidden dangers. For example, lead paint may be lurking underneath layers of existing paint in older homes. Exposure to lead dust or fumes may cause brain damage or other adverse health effects, especially in children or pregnant women. It is essential that homeowners control their exposure to lead or other Many older homes include at least one hazardous substances through the use layer of lead-based paint. of protective equipment, such as a properly fitted respirator. If lead is discovered, it may require professional containment and cleanup. Contact your local health authority if you discover or suspect you have discovered lead paint or other hazardous materials in your home.

Gray and white exterior house colors are hot this year.

Paint your home’s exterior like a pro

ainting is an inexpensive way to transform just about any space. Many people paint the interiors of their homes, but home exteriors also can undergo dramatic makeovers with fresh coats of paint. Timing the job right and heeding some tips from professionals and do-it-yourselfers who have tread the painting path before you can make the job go smoothly.

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Prepare the painting surfaces Resist the temptation to start painting straight away. Paint may not adhere to unprepared surfaces, and dirt and other debris may show through and mar the finished product. Repainting a home’s exterior will likely involve removing peeling or chipping paint prior to making your first strokes. Wear protective gear when scraping, sanding or brushing old paint, as such tasks can generate dust that can be dangerous to inhale, particularly if the old paint contains lead. Employ a chlorine bleach solution to kill any mildew and to scrub any dirt from the house. In addition, repair any cracks or imperfections. For example, if you’re painting stucco, you may have to fill in any pitting or holes. Use this opportunity to inspect caulking around windows and doors. Recaulk as needed to seal up drafty areas or those that may cause water infiltration prior to painting.

Hot exterior colors for 2017

It may be a little extra work, but apply a quality primer as the first coat to hide any imperfections, such as wood knots or discoloration from weathering. Primer provides a smooth, even surface upon which to put your paint color. Once you have applied the primer, test your paint color in a small, inconspicuous spot to see how the color looks in the daylight. You do not want to paint the entire home only to find out you dislike the color.

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Try these painting techniques Rent a paint sprayer for large surface areas. The sprayer will produce a more uniform application and is less time-consuming than painting everything with a brush or roller. Make sure you’ve chosen a high-quality paint, as the added expense is worth it if the paint lasts longer and coats more evenly. Also, if you have purchased multiple cans of paint, mix them all in one large bucket to ensure the same color; otherwise, the colors may not match perfectly. Try working your way from top to bottom in a smooth, controlled manner, overlapping each stroke by eight inches. Trim and hardto-reach areas should be left for brush work so you can maintain control over your tools. If you are painting areas like steps or staircases, consider adding a little finegrain sand to the paint to improve traction, as paint can be slippery when wet.

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According to Michael Cespites, a manger for Brinkmanns and a Benjamin Moore paint expert for over 30 years, while the previous popular colors for a home’s exterior were earth tones and beiges, taste has transitioned to grays and whites. Popular Benjamin Moore grays for exterior this year are Briarwood and Seagull Gray. “The most sought after gray tones right now are midtones and that goes for both interior and exterior paints,” he said. “The grays are popular because they can work with almost any color palette.”

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OUR HOUSE

Top gardening trends to watch for this spring

Tablescapes Megawatt begonias are a gardener’s dream.

hether you have a backyard or just a few containers on the patio, sunny days are your cue it’s time to garden. Growing your own flowers, herbs and vegetables is a lot of fun, and with some simple tips, it can be pretty easy to make sure your outdoor space is a showstopper. Here are some of this year’s top gardening trends so you can plant with confidence and creativity:

At the forefront of this trend are Megawatt begonias. New for 2017, they feature exceptional performance and a unique bronze leaf color that is sure to be noticed by guests.

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Your home’s exterior will influence the first impression of anyone who visits. Give your entryway an instant beauty boost with begonias. They’re perfect for the time-starved gardener, grow well in sun or shade and fill in fast and full.

There’s nothing like pulling fresh food from the garden, but 2017 is trending toward more unique flavors. Replace your traditional pepper plants with specialty hot peppers like jalapenos or chiles. And you don’t need tons of space to enjoy multiple tomatoes. Try Take

Take 2 Tomato Combos give you the best of both worlds.

Archangel Cherry Red Angelonia are a perfect knockout. 2 Tomato Combos, which give you a slicer and a cherry tomato in one pot, providing twice the flavor in half the space. Travel the globe through herbs: Plant a kitchen garden of different basils, lavenders and mints. Use them in your next cocktail!

Customize with color A great garden is more than just a food source. It’s also a thing of beauty. One of the hottest trends for 2017 will be accenting your garden with unique colors that reflect your style. If your favorite color is purple, pink or white, weave some petunias into your garden design. If you adore red, try Archangel Cherry Red Angelonia for a delicate texture that weathers any extremes.

Bring the beauty of gardening indoors with tablescapes. Use your harvested vegetables as decor inside in display bowls; you’ll give your interior design a fresh look. There are also nonedible potted veggies like these vibrant Hot Pops Purple Ornamental Peppers. They mature in multiple colors to keep you in color all season. Fill your garden with plants to match your favorite team’s colors for a fun customized twist. Whatever you choose, a splash of color is sure to get your space noticed. The 2017 gardening season is just beginning, so now’s the perfect time to make friends with your local garden center for the best plant selection. Incorporate any or all of the top trends listed above and your garden will be beautiful and rewarding throughout the entire year.

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PAGE S16 • OUR HOUSE • APRIL 27, 2017

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