Under Construction

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Improving Energy Efficiency Tops Wish List When Remodeling Home Metro News Service

(MS) -- Homeowners concerned about high energy bills have put energy conservation home improvements at the top of their must-do list this year. They are looking for green living upgrades that save money without sacrificing space or style.

Because heating costs are typically one of the highest and most variable home expenses, homeowners are considering energy-efficient zone heating options when embarking on home renovation projects.

Craig Shankster, President of Morso USA, has seen an increase in fireplace makeovers in the last few years, "Finding and eliminating wasteful drafts has lead many homeowners to install efficient wood stoves and inserts that transform inefficient open fireplaces into high performing heating zones."

Homes without chimneys or fire-

places can install a Morso 5660 fireplace insert with an innovative zeroclearance enclosure. This is an excellent zone heating option for those in the process of a renovation or new build looking to outfit their homes with the advanced technology of a fireplace insert and class A chimney.

Since buying a wood stove is much like buying furniture, you will find a wide-choice of models that match every lifestyle and design interest, including antique, traditional, classic or modern. While evaluating the right size, heating capacity and look of your future wood stove, we recommend that you also consider these three ecowise tips: 1. Only evaluate approved wood stoves equipped with a non-catalytic combustion system that exceeds EPA standards and are currently tax credit qualified.

2. Look for an eco-friendly seal and a recycled ingredients label that lists the many ways that a stove manufacturer has gone the extra mile to produce the highest quality and most energy efficient wood stove, possible.

3. Similar to grocery shopping, seek out the equivalent of an "Organic Section" in your local fireplace hearth store to compare the quality standards, eco-wise content, and warranties.

Additionally, if living by green principles is important to you -- and it should be -- properly burning local wood in a high efficiency wood stove is an environmentally-sound action.

Given that the use of sustainably-harvested, properly processed and seasoned wood for energy displaces the use of fossil fuels, the result is a net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

To learn more about the renewable benefits of local wood energy, watch the Morso educational videos that demonstrate how to fully realize the renewable benefits of local wood energy without beginner missteps or oldschool methods. There are five free videos that teach how to choose, install, operate, maintain, and fuel your wood stove that are available on http://www.morsona.com, Facebook, and YouTube.

Today is a great time to invest in a wood stove so you can actually keep some green cash in your pocket. The Federal Bio-Mass Tax Credit extension provides a 10 percent tax credit up to $300 for the purchase of a new biomass heating appliance in 2011.This tax credit helps homeowners save on energy costs by utilizing renewable biomass fuels such as wood.

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Paint Like a Pro

By Tresa Erickson It's been years since you painted your living room, and it's starting to show.

What was once a rich, creamy offwhite has now turned into a smudged, buttery yellow. You brought in a painter last time, but that's not within your budget this time. You're going to have to roll up your sleeves and tackle the walls yourself. Here are some tips to ensure you do as good of a job as the professional you hired last time.

Move everything out Now is not the time to get lazy and try to paint the room with everything still in it. Even if you have the space to move everything to the center of the room, you will still have to work around it and run the risk of something getting splattered. Box up everything you can and move it to another room.

Cover up Removing paint splatters from floors and baseboards is never easy, so save yourself the trouble and use drop cloths and painter's tape. Cover the floors, baseboards, trim and anything else you don't plan to paint. Tape the edges of the baseboards to the drop cloths on the floor for complete protection.

Gather the right supplies Make a list of everything you will need and start gathering it. Check the quality of supplies and throw out any that have seen better days, in particular brushes and rollers. Good paint jobs require good brushes and rollers. If you aren't good at cutting in, consider buying some of the new products available for making the task easier, like edging and corner brushes. Finally, make sure you have a sturdy ladder for those hard-to-reach places. Don't try working from a pile of crates. You could fall and hurt yourself and make a big mess in the process.

Choose the right paint If you plan to use the same paint as last time, you should have few problems. If you plan to use something else, you will need to do your homework. There are hundreds of paint colors available, and for the best results, you need to buy samples of the colors that appeal

to you and test them on the wall. Paint large patches and look at them at various points throughout the day. Live with the shades for a while to determine the right color for you. Once you have a color in mind, you will need to choose the type and sheen of paint.

Paint comes in two types: latex and oilbased. Latex is easy to work with and clean up, but not as durable as oilbased paint. Paint comes in many sheens. The glossier the sheen, the easier the paint will be to clean. If you have a lot of defects in the walls, you may want a duller finish to hide them.

Prep the surface It's not enough to tape everything off and toss some paint onto the wall.

Paint will not stick to dirt, nor will it fill in holes and gouges. For good coverage, repair all defects and clean the walls. Then apply a primer. This will serve as a base and allow for fewer coats and more even coverage.

Paint well Anyone can slap some paint onto a wall, but for it to look good, you have to take your time and do the job right.

Work on one wall at a time and move from top to bottom, making large M's and filling them in with horizontal strokes. Get an experienced friend to help. They can do the cutting in while you do the rolling, or vice versa. The job will go faster with another set of hands and someone to talk to. Apply as many coats as needed for good, even coverage.

Let the paint dry There is nothing worse than scuffing up a good paint job because you got inpatient and moved in furniture before the walls were dry. When you finish the last coat, step away and give the paint plenty of time to dry. Leave it overnight, or longer if needed, and then move the furniture back in. Be careful as you bring each piece in and give the paint a few days to cure before hanging up any artwork on the walls.

Good paint jobs take work. Be prepared to put in the time and you will be pleased with the results.

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Will you save by doubling the R-value of insulation?

(MS) -- If you're building, renovating or just thinking about improving your home, there are few better ways than the right insulation to help you save energy, reduce drafts, and improve indoor air quality.

When choosing the right insulation, homeowners often look to R-value. Rvalue helps us "compare by numbers", in that the higher the number, the better the insulation at reducing energy loss. By this measure, you might assume that R-40 insulation is twice as good as R-20 insulation -- right? The truth is: buying insulation based on Rvalues can cost you more than it saves.

Why? Because R-value doesn't tell the whole story of how well the insulation will work in your home. R-value measures conductive heat flow (energy moving in and out of your home through the insulation material) in a

controlled laboratory setting. What it doesn't consider is that, in a real home, heat (and money) also flows in or out through convection -- better known as air leakage. In fact, air leakage is the biggest source of energy loss in your home, accounting for as much as 40 percent. Insulations such as fiberglass allow air to pass right through, while spray foams, like those offered by Icynene block air flow.

If R-value doesn't measure air leakage, then what can homeowners use to compare insulation? ☛ How well does the insulation control air leakage that can account for up to 40 percent of a home's energy loss? ☛ How quickly will the insulation pay for itself? (Are the monthly energy savings greater than the monthly cost of financing the insulation purchase?)

☛ How well does the insulation

Metro News Services Consider this -- 93 percent of conduc-

reduce air leakage in hard-to-insulate areas such as rim joists, cathedral ceiling crawlspaces, rooms above garages, etc? ☛ Can the insulation help reduce

tive heat flow is already stopped by R-

heating and cooling loads (and costs) while removing the need for larger/costlier mechanical equipment? ☛ Will the insulation shift with the

returns of R-value can be found at

home over time as it settles? Will it leave spaces, gaps? ☛ What happens if the insulation gets wet? Will it keep its insulating properties? Can it grow mold? ☛ Does the insulation require a number of finishing materials (plastic wrap, gaskets, tape) to eliminate gaps or cracks?

So, when you increase R-value are you really saving or wasting money?

12 insulation. Upgrading from R-12 to R-40 reduces conductive heat flow by only another 5 percent. A better understanding of the diminishing www.insulationsmart.com.

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Cool Down for Less

By Tresa Erickson Love the lazy days of summer, but hate the heat? Tired of the air conditioning running continuously? Why not install an attic fan and give your air conditioning system a break on those cool nights?

Attic fans can make a great difference in the temperature of your home. They pull the hot air out of your attic and the cool air in through your windows, reducing the temperature of your home up to 10 degrees and extending the life of your roof shingles.

Attic fans work best in regions with cooler mornings and evenings.

They are not advised for regions with heavy pollen and pollution, as they will draw the irritants into the home. The fans are most effective in the early morning and late evening when temperatures have dropped and may allow you to turn off the air conditioning during those times and save a little on your utility bills.

Attic fans come in two general types: gable-mounted, which are secured to an outside attic wall, and floor-mounted, which are secured to the attic floor. Gable-mounted fans require professional installation, mak-

ing them more costly, but are not nearly as noisy as floor-mounted fans, which can be installed by most do-ityourselfers.

Most attic fans are powered by electricity in one of two ways: directdrive or belt-driven. In the former, fan blades are attached directly to the spinning shaft of the motor; in the latter, they're turned by a belt. Belt-driven fans cost more, but are quieter and more powerful, durable and easily maintained than direct-drive ones.

Whatever the type of attic fan chosen, self-closing louvers must be mounted along with it. These allow for the movement of air when the fan is in use and keep attic dust out of the house when the fan is not in use.

Should you decide you want an attic fan, you will have to select the right one for your needs. The larger your home, the more powerful fan you may need. You will also need the proper venting and may have some electrical concerns as well. Do your homework, and if needed, consult a professional. They should be able to advise you on the proper fan and installation of it.

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Prevent pollution at home When many people think of pollution, among the first images that come to mind are crowded highways with gas guzzling big rigs spewing exhaust into the air. But oversized trucks hauling loads don't have the pollution market cornered. In fact, many homeowners might be contributing to air pollution every time they work on their own yards.

Emissions from lawn mowers, chain saws, leaf blowers, and other outdoor power equipment account for a significant amount of pollution. What's more, such emissions might be contributing to the formation of groundlevel ozone, which can compromise human health. Natural ozone in the upper atmosphere shields the planet from harmful radiation. But ozone at ground level, which can form when certain outdoor power equipment emits hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides, can impair lung function, help produce smog and even inhibit plant

growth.

Homeowners concerned about the environment might feel as though they're caught in a Catch-22.

Protecting the environment is likely important to them but so is taking care of their property. However, it's possible to do both; it just requires taking a few preventative measures when working out in the yard. ★ Don't spill the gas. Small gasoline spills can damage the yard, leaving dead spots wherever gas came into contact with the yard. But even the smallest of spills can cause the gas to evaporate and pollute the air. When refilling the gas tank, do so on the driveway and not in the yard to avoid damaging the property. Use a gasoline container that's easy to handle and use a funnel or spout to reduce the likelihood of spillage. Once the tank has been filled, make sure the caps on both the power equipment and the gasoline container have been closed

tightly, and store the container out of the sunlight, ideally in a cool, dry place. ★ Go manual. Some lawn maintenance requires the use of gas-powered tools to get the job done in a timely fashion. Homeowners with large yards, for instance, will likely need a gas-powered mower to cut their grass in a reasonable amount of time. However, in lieu of gas-powered tools to trim hedges and trees around the yard, use a traditional manual hedge clipper instead. Many of today's manual hand tools are designed to be user-friendly and, as a result, are much lighter and less bulky than the tools of yesteryear.

Homeowners with smaller yards might even consider using reel push mowers that don't generate any emissions whatsoever. ★ Cut down on cutting. Instead of cutting the grass every weekend, visit the local lawn and garden center and ask if there are any grass and flower

Metro News Service seed mixtures that will make the grass grow more slowly. This often depends on the region and the type of grass that thrives in the region, but it can help reduce the number of times the lawn needs to be cut and reduce emissions as a result. ★ Plant more trees. Planting more trees around the property can be advantageous for a number of reasons.

If the yard has more trees, that means it will have less grass, decreasing the amount of time it takes to mow the yard, and thereby reducing emissions from the mower. Another eco-friendly benefit to planting more trees is that, if planted strategically to provide shade, energy usage, in addition to cooling costs, during the hot summer will decrease. Homeowners who plant native wildflowers and plants also can reduce the time it takes to maintain their yard, as such plants typically require little to no maintenance after planting.

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Fenced In

By Tresa Erickson

You have lived in your home for quite some time now, and for the most part, you enjoy it. It is warm and cozy with enough space for everyone and everything. You like the yard as well; there is one little problem with it, however. There is no fence so there is no privacy.

You could build a fence or have one installed. Either way, you will need to select the right material for the job. Fences come in all types of materials. Some of the more common ones include:

BAMBOO This durable material makes a great choice for the eco-conscious. It can be grown in just six months, is extremely tough and requires no maintenance.

COMPOSITE This strong material looks like wood, but holds up even better. It comes in a wide range of colors and requires no maintenance.

METAL This material offers many options from intricate ornamental iron fences to simple chain link fences. It is very durable but requires extra care to prevent corrosion.

STONE This attractive material is very durable but can be labor intensive. The stone can be dry stacked or set in mortar; mortar will take longer but will make for a stronger fence.

VINYL This material is also very durable and requires very little maintenance. The selection of colors is limited, however, and generally the higher the quality of the vinyl, the more the fence will cost.

WOOD This material makes an excellent choice for a fence because of its durability. If treated, most types of wood will last an average of seven to 10 years beyond their normal life expectancy.

Like metal, wood fences require some maintenance to keep them in good condition.

In addition to a material, you will have to select a fence design. If privacy is your main objective, you might want a privacy fence. Check local ordinances first to find out what regulations are in place on fencing.

Traditional privacy fences are six feet high with four-inch wide boards spaced less than an eighth of an inch apart. Semi-privacy fences have boards spaced farther apart.

While privacy may be your main objective in your backyard, you might want something a little different in your front yard. You might want a farm fence or a classic cottage picketstyle fence. You might want a wider slat fence or a purely decorative fence for visual appeal.

Along with design, you will want to select a style of fence. This can range from gothic to flat and should suit your personal preferences as well as the style of your home. You may like the gothic style, but it might not work with your contemporary house.

When selecting a fence, do your homework and learn everything you can. You will be investing a lot of time and money in the project, so you want to do it right.

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Extend Your Home Outdoors

By Tresa Erickson

Your home is great, but with the kids getting older, you feel like you are starting to get cramped and could use a little more room. An addition is out of the question. Why not extend your home with a room outdoors?

Outdoor rooms are all the rage these days and creating one is not as difficult as you might think. You can set up one in almost any site from a screened-in porch to a deck to a gazebo to a patch of grass in your landscape. When creating a room, you should start inside your house. Look out onto your yard and select an area that could serve as a natural extension of your home, preferably one with easy access to and from your home.

Determine how the outdoor room will function. Do you plan to hang out there with friends and chat? Do you plan to relax in a hammock and watch television there? Do you plan to play games or exercise there? Whatever you intend to do, your outdoor room will need to accommodate that.

Multiple functions might call for multiple pieces of furniture or equipment, which might call for a larger space.

You should design the outdoor room around its functions. If you plan to chat there with friends, you will need comfortable chairs for everyone to sit on. If you plan to lie in the hammock and watch television there, you will need a hammock and a television. If

you plan to play games or exercise there, you will need a card table and chairs or some exercise equipment.

You will also need some type of flooring, whether a concrete slab, pavers or brick. If possible, use the same flooring outside as inside. This will help create continuity. Add some rugs underfoot and some accessories, and you will have a great outdoor space. Just make sure the items are weather resistant, unless the room is sheltered.

If you plan to use the outdoor room in cool temperatures, you will need a source of heat. Fireplaces and fire pits are ideal. Depending upon your needs, budget and preferences, you may have one installed or buy one ready made.

Chimneas, for example, are relatively inexpensive and require no installation.

If you don't have a lot of vegetation already, you will want to add some.

For privacy, twine vines and other climbers on trellises or fences. Fill some containers with plants. Install some beds. Hang up some planters.

It doesn't take much to create an outdoor room. You can set up one fairly easily and add to it as you see fit.

Like the rooms inside, your outdoor room will evolve over time and become a crucial part of your home.

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Radon: a potentially deadly foe When buying a home, many prospective buyers hope to find a relatively new property. Rather than purchase an older home with all the warts and problems that

often accompany such properties, many buyers want to find a home that won't require immediate maintenance or upgrades.

Another reason buyers often pre-

The radioactive and cancer-causing gas radon can be found in most soils, including those outside many homes.

Metro News Service

fer newer homes is the sense of safety such homes provide. Newer homes were built in accordance with newer laws designed to protect home buyers from dangers that might once have gone unnoticed. For example, in 1978 the U.S. federal government banned the use of lead paint in homes.

Buyers, as a result, might be comfortable buying homes built post1978, believing such homes are safer than those built before the law was enacted.

One potentially deadly foe that can afflict homes new or old is radon. A cancer-causing radioactive gas, radon does not discriminate when entering homes. New homes that are well-sealed are susceptible to radon, as are drafty

older homes. Prospective home buyers and even existing homeowners should familiarize themselves with radon so they are less likely to fall victim to its potentially deadly side effects.

What is radon and how does it enter a home?

Radon is an invisible, tasteless and odorless gas that comes naturally from the breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water.

Uranium is found in most soils, and radon can push its way up through the soil and into the air above.

Once there, radon can enter the home in a number of ways, including: - through cracks in solid floors - thru gaps around service pipes

page 11 • Under Construction • July 23, 2011 - thru gaps in suspended floors - through construction joints Where can radon be found?

Though exposure is often greatest at home, radon can enter other buildings as well. Found all over the United States, radon has been discovered in homes, schools and even office buildings. Radon exposure is greatest at home because home is where many people spend most of their time.

What is the greatest risk of radon exposure?

Radon is a radioactive gas that can cause cancer. In fact, the Canadian Cancer Society notes that exposure to radon gas is among the leading causes of lung cancer in the country, alongside causes like smoking tobacco and exposure to asbestos. Similarly, the National Cancer Institute reports that exposure to radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., annually playing a part in 15,00022,000 lung cancer deaths. As radon decays, it gives off tiny radioactive particles that are then inhaled. Upon inhalation, these particles begin to damage the cells than line the lungs. When exposure to radon is lengthy, men, women

and children are at a greater risk for lung cancer.

Can a home be tested for radon?

Fortunately, homeowners can have their homes tested for radon.

Such tests are even inexpensive and rarely take more than a few minutes. The Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Surgeon General advise all homeowners to have their homes tested for radon, particularly any floors below the third floor. Professionals can come in and test a home, but many do-ityourself radon testing kits are easy, reliable and inexpensive.

Can a radon problem be fixed?

Homeowners can drastically reduce radon levels in their home.

Radon reduction systems are typically highly effective, reducing radon levels by as much as 99 percent. Even homeowners who discover extraordinarily high levels of radon in their homes can drastically reduce those levels rather easily.

Radon annually plays a role in thousands of deaths that can be prevented if homeowners emphasize protecting themselves and their families from this all-tooprevalent radioactive gas.

Did You Know?

Home improvement projects no longer need to be halted due to missing tools or misplaced measurements. Thanks to advancements in mobile phone technology, homeowners can now keep projects on schedule thanks to a host of apps that make it possible for even the most forgetful do-it-yourselfer to complete projects on time. Carpentry apps provide rulers, protractors, and a host of other features that can help with projects big and small, be it hanging pictures in the family room or completing a molding project. Homeowners can also make the most of sizing apps that allow them to enter the square footage of their homes or individual rooms and compare costs of supplies and materials. Those tackling painting projects can take advantage of painting palette apps that make it easy to match colors and compare colors for interior or even exterior projects. Drywall calculator apps enable homeowners tackling the often troublesome task of measuring drywall to finish the project much more quickly and with significantly less stress.

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Gel Stains: The Good And The Bad

By Tresa Erickson You're not much of a woodworker, but you found a little table at a yard sale that would look good with a little work. You cleaned it up, fixed the drawer and now you've sanded it down. The table is made of various types of woods, none of which are in good condition. That, along with the fact that you don't have a lot of practice with staining, has made you lean toward using a gel stain.

Gel stains work well for blending different woods and matching existing colors, though you may have to use a couple of colors to get the shade you want. They're a snap to apply, too, particularly for beginners, and allow for more control over the color. They do not work well on figured woods, as they won't give you the clarity you are looking for.

Before applying a gel stain, you will need to make sure you have prepped the table well. The old finish must be stripped completely and the table sanded and wiped down. Any trace of old finish or sawdust could mar the results. You'll also want to make sure you've taken care of any defects in the wood, as the stain will seep into them quickly and be difficult to wipe away.

Gel stains require little in the way of equipment, just a soft, clean rag (an old T-shirt will do) and a pair of gloves.

Make sure you read the instructions on the back of the can before you begin

and apply the stain as recommended.

Usually all you will need to do is apply some stain to the wood and wipe it off after a few minutes. The extensiveness of your wiping will determine the evenness and depth of the color. If your table has some crevices, you'll want to use a light touch with the stain. As with defects, the stain will sink into crevices fast and be difficult to get out.

After you have finished applying the gel stain and given it time to dry, you will want to apply a polyurethane topcoat to protect the color. Gel stains do not penetrate wood like other stains and require sealing to ensure the color lasts.

Gel stains are easy to work with, but they do have some drawbacks. Study your table and make sure gel stain will work for it. If you have any concerns, speak to a professional at your local hardware store. They should be able to advise you on the type of stain that would suit your table best and its application.

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Wrapped In Beadboard

By Tresa Erickson You love your house, but boy, oh boy, could the powder room use some work. The fixtures are nice...the walls, not so much. There are tons of nicks and scrapes on the lower half, probably due to the removal of layers upon layers of wallpaper long ago. You could install new drywall, but you'd rather not. Why not cover it instead with beadboard?

Installing beadboard is a rather simple process. First you need to do some shopping and select the right beadboard for your needs. Beadboard comes in a variety of styles from tongue-and-groove boards to plywood sheets to faux beadboard. You can buy it finished or unfinished and stain or paint it yourself. Once you have bought the beadboard, you will need to bring it inside and give it a few days to get acclimated. This will ensure it goes up smoothly.

When you are ready to install the beadboard, remove the base-

boards and paint the top half of the walls if needed. Then pencil in a level line across the wall and measure for the first piece. You may cut the beadboard to size with a circular saw. To install it, apply some construction adhesive to the back, put it into place on the wall and secure it in the corners and along the edges with nails.

Continue with the process around the room, making sure you leave 1/16th gap between sections for expansion.

For areas around pipes, you may use a drill with a hole-saw attachment to cut the beadboard.

After you have finished, you will need to cap off the beadboard and replace the baseboards. To cap it off, you may install a chair railing. When you are done with that, use some caulk to fill in all of the holes. Then stain or paint the beadboard, baseboards and chair railing, and voila, your bathroom is as good as new.

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Home Improvement:

Top tips for the best first impression Metro News Service It's called "curb appeal," that good impression people get of your home when they pull up in a car, or when walking by. Real estate agents can be as pleased with exterior curb appeal as they are with a well-maintained house on the inside. When it comes to residential property value, this book is indeed judged by its cover.

Exterior trouble areas include peeling paint; rotting wood on window frames; buckled roof shingles; overgrown shrubs; ignored lawns; and weeds growing through interlock paths, steps and the driveway.

"The lawns and landscaping that frame our home are as important as the quality inside," says Reinie Drygala, lawncare products manager for Clear Choice, a leading name in innovative garden products. "And the good news is: when it comes to first impressions just a few little tips and tricks can make a big difference quickly.

"If you're frustrated about overgrown weeds, for example, the newest herbicide technology is tackling that," Drygala continued. "Now there are alternatives to traditional herbicides that effectively kill weeds, but also provide the homeowner with options if they are looking for ways to have less impact on the environment. The formulation for our Clear Choice selective

herbicide, for example, contains up to 85 percent less active ingredients as compared to other products using the same ingredients. As importantly, microtechnology built into the formulation creates much smaller droplets that more efficiently deliver the herbicide to the plant. Clear Choice is effective on over 60 varieties of broadleaf weeds, killing them quickly while being friendly to your lawn."

In addition to beautifying your lawn, try these quick tricks to give your home instant curb appeal: ☛ Scrape and spot-paint problem areas. This might be a temporary fix, but even a touch up is better than peeling paint. ☛ Add color by planting some annuals in the front yard flowerbeds. ☛ Replace or paint rusty fixtures like the mailbox, railings, house number, and more. ☛ Tackle pesky weeds on interlock paths and driveway. Use hand sprays for targeted jobs, or larger jugs for a big surface area. More information at www.todaysclearchoice.com. ☛ Install lighting along your walkways and steps, or to spotlight the shape and architecture.

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Warm And Cozy

By Tresa Erickson You love the look and feel of fireplaces, but you've never had the privilege of owning a home with one. Fortunately for you, there are several models now on the market that can be installed easily.

When shopping for a fireplace, you must determine first where it will go and what you want from it. If you're looking for a fireplace that puts out heat, you must find one that fits the size of the room. Too small of one won't put out enough heat, while too big of one will overheat the room.

There are two type of gas fireplaces that can be installed easily: direct-vent and no-vent. Direct-vent fireplaces are self-contained and require no foundation. They are vented out of the nearest sidewall. Ventfree fireplaces require no venting and put out a huge amount of heat, making them more suitable for large spaces. They also produce a lot of moisture. Both require a source of nat-

ural gas or propane.

If you would prefer not to bother with a fuel source, you may look at electric fireplaces. These do not burn, but they do provide the illusion of crackling flames. Some models also come with space heaters to help heat the room.

If these options do not appeal to you and you prefer a traditional fireplace, you may check into having one installed. This will be easier if you are adding on to your home, of course.

Either way, it will cost you, and you will have to determine whether you want a gas or a wood fireplace. Gas burns cleaner. Wood, however, is more authentic and produces a sweet scent and a crackling sound.

Want a fireplace in your home? Have one! Just make sure you do your homework and select the right type for your needs.

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Wood patio furniture: Value and Durability Metro News Service Wood patio furniture can be a decorative and functional addition to outdoor living. The longevity of the furniture and the upkeep required will depend heavily on the type of wood used in construction. Choosing the right wood based on use and budget can help consumers get more for their money.

Many consumers are selecting natural wood patio furniture over resins, plastic and metal options. Although it seems a simple purchase, when faced with the multitude of woods and designs available, shoppers can be easily confused. Learning about the different species of wood commonly used in furniture crafting can make determin-

ing why one table is $1,000 and the other is double the price.

PINE:

Pine is a household name

and a common component of many building products and furniture. Pine's popularity could stem from its availability and affordability. The fact that it is often harvested locally helps keep prices down. Pine as an untreated wood is susceptible to rot and may not be as durable as other woods. Very often pine is pressure-treated to improve its durability and performance. The light color of pine enables it to be stained or painted in a variety of shades.

TEAK:

Another familiar type of

wood, teak is resilient, dense and

page 19 • Under Construction • July 23, 2011 straight-grained, making it a very stable choice for outdoor furniture.

Without preservative, teak will weather to a gray color and still remain highly resistant to decay -- even up to 50 years. Thanks to that durability, teak is typically among the more expensive options.

ple may think of this wood only for kitchen cabinet applications, but Brazilian cherry is dense and naturally weather-resistant. This makes it a fine choice for garden furniture. It is also used in playground equipment and decking.

CEDAR: Cedar is a rapidly renew-

valued for its strength and durability and is related to the birch family. It is appreciated for its honey-hued tone and beauty.

able resource thanks to it being a quick grower. That can make cedar an attractive choice to those who are interested in going green with their patio furniture choices. Another advantage to cedar is its resistance to weather and insects. Cedar satchels are often used in closets to keep moths and other bugs away.

REDWOOD: Another softwood, redwood is also harvested domestically from the Pacific Northwest, British Columbia and California. Although it is highly resistant to rot and termites, it will need to be protected annually with an oil-based stain, sealer and preserver.

Roble: A wood native to South America, roble is a dense, strong and lightweight wood. Darker shades of the wood are more resistant to decay.

A preservative oil should be used every six months to maintain its beauty.

JARRAH: Another exotic sounding wood, jarrah is harvested mostly from government-managed forests in Australia. While this wood is naturally resistant to insects and rot, it is also fire-resistant, making it a safe option.

It, too, is one of the more durable woods, lasting up to 50 years even without oiling or staining. It is one of the pricier options in outdoor furniture thanks to these properties.

CYPRESS: This is a popular wood for wood garden furniture because it resists decay and cracking very well.

Cypress has a distinctive yellowish-red color that many people find attractive, but it can also be painted if desired.

BRAZILIAN CHERRY: Many peo-

ALDER: Alder is a hard wood that is

BALAU: Balau is a very dense wood that is tightly grained and rich in tropical oils and resins. It has been used for shipbuilding, heavy-duty furniture and heavy construction and coveted for its excellent strength and weather-resistant qualities. It is very strong and heavy, making it one of the soughtafter choices in outdoor wood furniture materials, driving up the price.

Although many types of wood patio furniture can be kept outdoors and remain durable, it's recommended that homeowners cover or take in wood furniture when the season ends. This limits the chance of weather-related damage and cuts down on the amount of cleaning and maintenance that may need to be done.

Many homeowners find that wood patio furniture provides the beauty and comfort they desire for outdoor entertaining. Very often wood items can be low-maintenance, affordable and environmentally friendly.

page 20 • Under Construction • July 23, 2011

Gardening in any sized space Believe you need an acre of property to start gardening? Think again.

Individuals can grow their own patch of greenery in just about any space they have on hand.

When it comes time to getting your hands dirty, it doesn't matter if there are rolling hills or a single container filled with soil on which to plant.

Although many gardening professionals present plans for larger-scale gardens, it's possible to create smaller-

scale options that require a great deal less maintenance and upkeep.

To get started, homeowners or apartment dwellers need to first look at the space they have. Perhaps this is a few flower pots or a small square of exposed dirt in an otherwise concrete jungle. Others may have an expansive backyard in which to toil in the soil.

Either way, knowing what you have to work with can help home gardeners map out a more successful plan of

action.

Next, it's important to consider the climate and the soil conditions. Soil can be amended to a point, but plants that require a lot of water may not do well in an area plagued by drought.

Color is another thing to consider.

Gardeners with smaller spaces may want to think about keeping gardens mainly monochromatic, which will look more cohesive. Cool-colored flowers and plants will help make a garden look larger. Warm-colored flowers will add impact and could create a cozier feel.

Hanging baskets and raised containers can add height and free up more floor space for gardens. They're particularly helpful when space is at a premium. Keep in mind that baskets and containers tend to dry out easily, so using peat moss, vermiculite and other products that tend to hold onto water will help keep the soil moist. These containers also may need to be watered more frequently.

Metro News Service Containers also can be used to plant small trees or shrubs. Use them for vegetable plants as well. The advantage to containers is they can be moved elsewhere if a plant is not thriving in a particular area.

People who have an extremely space with which to work may be limited to a few flower pots in the window, but they can easily grow herbs or annual flowers.

Those who have a large space may want to consider breaking the landscape down into smaller quadrants; otherwise, the garden can seem unruly. Use hardscape materials, such as mulch, rocks, boulders, and slate to break up the greenery (and also cut down on items that need pruning and watering).

Individuals who don't know where to start can page through gardening magazines for ideas. Alternatively, they can consult with an area landscaper to find out which plants will do well.

page 21 • Under Construction • July 23, 2011

Less Can Be More

By Tresa Erickson

My, how time has flown. Seems like only yesterday you were packing up for the big move to your house. Now your children are all grown, some with children of their own, and the house you have cherished for so long seems big and empty. The time has come for you to downsize.

Downsizing typically involves moving to a smaller home, which creates a number of positives. Depending upon how much you still owe on your current house, you may make enough of a profit to put down a substantial down payment on a smaller house or buy it outright. Either way, you will have more cash in your pocket for other things. With less square footage, you will have lower utility bills and make fewer purchases, allowing you to save even more money. You will also have less to care for, easing stress and freeing up time.

With downsizing also come some negatives, of course. You may not have the room for out-of-town guests, much less your possessions. Chances are everything in your home right now will not fit in your new home. If you own a lot you're partial to, getting rid of some of it may not be easy. Ask your family and friends to help. They might even be willing to take some items off your hands. Wouldn't you rather see your daughter using your mother's china now than making her wait until after your death? The same goes for your phonograph. It would look lovely in your friend's parlor, and they're even willing to pay you what it's worth.

When sorting through your possessions, start in the rooms you use the least to avoid having to walk through an obstacle course for days on end.

Move from large pieces to small and color-code everything according to whether you want to keep it, give it to a family member or friend, donate it to charity or sell it. With heirlooms you're handing down, write down any significant details or memories associated with them for future owners. With heirlooms you're selling, bring in an expert to assess them and recommend

the best method of sale.

Sifting through your possessions will take time. Don't rush the process, or you could end up making decisions you regret. Go through everything, old cards, letters, papers and more, and keep what's important to you. If you're holding onto items for your grown kids, don't. Let them know what you have and find out what they want you to do with it. Do not take it to your new home. You need all of the space there for your own things. Give your children a time frame to retrieve the items they want or donate them to charity.

Paring down won't be easy, but it can be done. Be firm in what you want to keep and bequeath items only when ready. Don't succumb to the pressure of friends and family. It's your memories, so do with them as you wish. Just don't go overboard, or you'll end up feeling like a can of sardines in your new home. Remember, you're downsizing to free up time and money and reduce stress. The more stuff you have, the less likely that is to happen.

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Timber!!

By Tresa Erickson You love all of the mature trees surrounding your house. They are what attracted you to the property in the first place. Unfortunately, some of them have been struck down by disease and need to be cut down. You have never felled a tree before and could use some tips on doing the task safely.

Before you start, check local ordinances. There may be some restrictions in place on felling trees in your area. Make sure you follow them and use the appropriate supplies. You will need an axe and a quality chainsaw of the proper size.

Generally, the larger the tree, the harder and the more dangerous it will be to cut down. To reduce the risk, you should find someone reliable to help, preferably someone with experience in felling trees. You should also select a nice calm day to tackle the chore. Do not try to cut down a tree on a day with strong winds. They could whip the tree in a direction you do not intend.

You may cut down small trees less than six inches in diameter in one pass.

Larger trees, on the other hand, require more work. To start the process, determine first how the tree naturally leans and how weighted it is.

This will tell you on which side you should notch the tree and where it should fall. The area where it falls should be fairly open and on even ground. If it isn't, the tree could get stuck on another tree or catch on something as it falls, or it could bounce, roll and kick back at you once it hits the ground.

Next, you need to assess the condition of the tree. Dead trees will be easier to cut down. To determine if the tree is completely dead, hit it with an axe. A hollow sound indicates the tissue inside is dead; a thunk indicates some of it is still living. If this is the case, you may have to work a little harder to get the tree down.

To make the actual cutting and cleanup afterwards easier, you should

remove as many branches as possible, especially any that might stop the tree from falling. Then you may make the notch. Again, this should be on the side of the tree you want it to fall toward. Cut a third of the way through the tree near the base. This will serve as the bottom cut. Then make the top intersecting cut a foot above at a 45degree angle. When you are ready, move to the other side of the tree and make the final cut two inches above the bottom cut in order to create a hinge. This will ensure the tree does not kick back and upward.

The moment you hear the tree crack and begin to move, get out of the way fast and let others know the tree is falling. The tree should fall fairly quickly. Wait a few moments to ensure it is not going to roll and then cut it up, starting with any remaining branches and finishing with the trunk.

Felling a tree imposes a great deal of risk. Familiarize yourself with the process and make sure you know what you are doing. Get a buddy to help you and work carefully.

page 23 • Under Construction • July 23, 2011

Easy and Economical Solutions for Those Postponed Remodeling Plans If you cannot wait any longer to make some much needed changes in your home, you are not alone.

Americans are once again getting ready to begin the home improvement process. This pent-up energy often begins in the kitchen, a room that gets a lot of wear and tear but also seems to go out of fashion more quickly these days.

This time around, you will be more cautious like many consumers are with their choices and costs ... and yet you want to make observable changes.

The most obvious change is installing a new countertop.

Remember that countertops represent 30 percent of the color in any kitchen.

Create new excitement by simply replacing your tired, scratched or stained counter surface with one made from the latest generation of premi-

um laminate.

The latest additions to the popular Wilsonart(R)HD(R) High Definition(R) design series reflect new interest in natural, classic and tumbled marble, limestone and travertine.

The good news is this fashionable look is available without the high cost of stone or the constant maintenance those stones require.

These lighter, less patterned laminate designs are perfect for today's hectic lifestyle. In fact, the new costefficient countertop can be installed within a few hours and without disrupting family life. They also give an existing kitchen the promise of a whole new look that's universally appealing. That equals a big change for small change.

All of these new designs are available in a new surface effect of a lower

matte-gloss sheen that seems almost glazed. The "Glaze" texture is actually a layering of matte features over a glaze of semi-gloss. This creates a timeworn result that is less reflective and more restrained. It's a perfect balance for the sophisticated dramatic materials that are part of today's kitchen: stainless steel, chrome, copper, and even glass.

Wilsonart patterns benefit from AEON Enhanced Performance technology. AEON brings four times the scuff and scratch-resistance of conventional laminate, as well as five times the wear resistance to the surface. Unlike granite, the surfaces of these new laminates are non-porous and never need to be sealed.

Here are some other remodeling ideas that will have high impact without high expense:

by Gale Steves

✓ Replace your old refrigerator with an energy-efficient model. Look in the big box stores for floor models or even those with a little dent on the side, which will never be seen. ✓ Refresh your cabinets with a coat of paint, and change all the cabinet hardware in the process. This makes everything look new. ✓ Swap out your old ceiling light fixture and install under cabinet lighting as well. A little light can make a dramatic difference. ✓ Change your sink or sinks.

Consider a new Wil s o n a r t ( R ) H D ( R ) sink when adding a laminate countertop. These sinks were designed to be mounted to a laminate surface.

Still puzzled by the process or need more help choosing the right color or pattern for your countertop? Vi s i t www.WilsonartHD.com

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The Perfect Porch Swing You have wanted a porch swing ever since you sat on one as a child at your great aunt's house. Oh, how you loved to nestle into the pillows and swing in the gentle breezes of a warm summer's day. For years, you owned houses without a porch, but recently, you bought one with a porch, a rather large wraparound porch. You are all set to get a porch swing of your own.

You can make your own porch swing or buy one. Either way, you will have a number of factors to consider.

First, you must determine the size of porch swing that would best be suited to your needs. Large swings can hold three to four people but require more support than the traditional twoseaters. Your porch should be able to accommodate whatever size of swing you select, spatially and structurally.

You must determine the best material for your needs. Wicker and wood are popular choices, and if you aren't real handy, you can modify a wicker sofa into a swing. Simply cut off the legs and add a support base.

Should you choose wood, cedar and teak are strong and will weather well.

Oak is also strong but heavy. Pine is inexpensive but will dent and crack easily. Pine, oak and maple can be painted to increase their longevity.

Along with size and material, you must look at the construction of the swing. The best swings have joints that are screwed together rather than nailed. The seat depth, slat spacing

By Tresa Erickson

and back angle can vary. For comfort, you probably want a swing with a decent seat depth, fairly close slats and some curve in the back.

Another factor to consider is style. Porch swings come in a wide range of styles, some more intricate than others. Try to select a style that suits your tastes and complements your home. A white wicker porch swing might work well for a Victorian home but not for a log cabin. For that, you might want a rough-hewn cedar porch swing.

Try out as many porch swings as you can and select the one that works best for you. Add weather-resistant cushions to make it comfortable, and if needed, seal or paint it to extend its life and match the décor of your home.

Mirror, Mirror On The Wall Most people familiar with interior design know the value of mirrors.

When placed right, they can make a room appear larger and lighter than it really is. A mirror placed across from a window in a small, narrow room, for example, can open it up. Mirrors can be used in other ways to play up the features of a room.

Designers employ all kinds of techniques with mirrors. Sometimes, they angle mirrors toward each to break up the reflection and allow for a unique mosaic affect. Other times, they arrange them in a specific order for a comforting repetitious effect.

The size and shape of mirrors might dictate their use. An assortment of round mirrors in various sizes on a wall might make for quite an impressive display, whereas a series of long, narrow mirrors on a wall might elongate it. When turned horizontally, those same long, narrow mirrors might make the wall appear wider.

Mirrors can be used to disguise flaws and highlight objects as well. Dresser top scratched? No problem. Have a piece of mirror cut to fit it, and voila, you've got a great place to store all of those crystal perfume bottles. The mirrored top will reflect light onto the crystal, creating a dazzling effect.

Bookshelves seem a little drab? Not with mirrored backs. Hang or glue some mirrors to the backs of your bookshelves for depth and whatever you have tucked inside will come alive.

By Tresa Erickson

Mirrors do not have to be new or in perfect condition to create an interesting effect. Distressed mirrors work great in many design styles from Old World to country cottage, while convex mirrors can add interest to more modern rooms.

Mirrors can do wonders for any décor. Just make sure you use them appropriately. Remember, mirrors reflect, so be careful of their placement. Don't hang one across from something you'd rather people not notice, like the litterbox or coat closet.

Watch out for glare as well. While a mirror placed across from your picture window might bounce back a lot of light, it might also create glare on the TV screen.

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