Fall Home & Harvest 2018

Home & Harvest • Make fall clean-up eco-friendly • Take advantage of fall weather to prep gardens for next year • Protect your home (and more) from winter’s freeze • Clean indoor air can help reduce asthma attacks

A Publication of The Daily Star, Wednesday, Sept. 19, 2018

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7 uses for fallen leaves

y the time autumn hits full swing, many trees will have shed their leaves for the season, and the last vestiges of red, yellow and orange magic will have faded to brown. Raking, blowing and collecting leaves becomes the primary chores of lawn and yard maintenance, and presents most homeowners with large piles of gathered leaves to tend to.

It is impossible to count just how many leaves fall to the ground each year, or just how many pounds of leaves get collected curbside, but the numbers are substantial.

Cleaning up leaves is considerable work, but not all of those leaves need to be carted away. In fact, there are several different uses of leaves that can be beneficial.

1. Spread leaves as a protective mulch to cover tender perennials or root crops/bulbs in the ground. The leaves will form a natural insulating cover that keeps the soil and the plants within a bit warmer over winter.

2. Create a pile of leaves that will break down and form a crumbly, compost-like material called leaf mold. Even though leaf mold may sound like a blight, it’s actually a good amendment to garden soil, improving its structure and ability to hold water. Leaf mold also attracts beneficial organisms that are vital in healthy soil.

3. Brown leaves can be added to green materials in compost piles to improve the health of the compost being formed. According to

Make fall clean-up eco-friendly Certain tasks become necessary once autumn arrives. Whereas spring and summer were spent tending gardens and maintaining a yard prime for entertaining, autumn is about preparing properties to survive the winter.

Fall clean-up can be done in a manner that is respectful to the environment.

Leave plant stalks and leaves It is tempting to want to cut back perennials and other greenery so a property looks neat. But as flowers and plants dry and drop to the ground,

the healthy living resource Care2, the ideal ratio is 75 percent brown to 25 percent green materials in compost. Turn compost piles regularly to aerate them.

4. Store dried, mulched leaves in a dry spot so they can be used in the spring as a weed barrier for spring plantings. They will keep weeds at bay and help retain soil moisture to ensure small sprouts have the resources to grow.

5. Use shredded leaves as a lawn supplement. Pass a lawn mower over leaves left on the lawn to break them down into pieces too small to rake. This will help keep the lawn healthy throughout the winter without blocking out needed sunlight.

6. Bag dried leaves and pack them tightly together in cold areas of the home, such as basements or garages. They can act as added insulation. Bags of leaves also can be placed around planting containers to protect them from frost.

7. Gather a few of the best-looking leaves and preserve them. Use an iron on a low setting and press leaves between two pieces of waxed paper until the waxed paper seals together. Or use clear contact paper to achieve the same effect.

Fallen leaves can be used in many different ways throughout the year.

they help insulate the roots from the cold. They also provide a natural habitat and serve as a winter food source for birds and small animals.

somewhat. A leftover leaf here or there also may provide protection for insects and small animals.

Rake leaves sensibly

Spread a thin layer of compost on the lawn and in garden beds. Compost prevents weed growth, insulates and protects the soil and provides nutrients that will be needed once the spring busy season begins. By using compost, homeowners can reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and weed killers.

Power blowers and mulchers make fast work of leaves, but at the expense of the environment. Gas-powered devices discharge fuel exhaust into the air, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Instead, reap the benefits of peace and quiet as well as exercise from manual raking.

While raking, do not feel the need to remove every leaf. A certain amount of organic matter can be beneficial to the soil and even insulate the lawn

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Compost is a friend

Collect and harvest Be sure to gather any useable garden vegetables and fruits and prepare them for storage if they cannot be

consumed in the next few days. Canning is a time-honored preservation method. Herbs and seeds can be dried and saved for use later on. Vacuum seal fresh basil and parsley.

Take inventory Look at which items in the yard have seen better days and prepare to recycle or reuse them in different ways. Faded plastic planters can be used as impromptu bird baths in a garden. An old tire can be mulched and turned into soft material to put around a playset.

Autumn yard work should be performed in as eco-friendly a fashion as possible.

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Strategies for proper pruning Fall pruning can stimulate growth in plants preparing for winter dormancy, threatening their ability to return next spring and summer.

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s the leaves fall off the trees and greenery thins out for the season, exposing branches and undergrowth along the way, homeowners may be tempted to prune their trees and shrubs. But while autumn pruning may seem like a good idea, many gardening experts say it is often best for homeowners to wait until winter or early spring before pruning.

Although pruning does thin out branches and tame spent blooms, which can be eyesores, pruning also stimulates new growth. Pruning in the autumn, when plants are naturally preparing to go

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dormant, can weaken the plants considerably. This can compromise their chances of surviving into the next growing season.

Fall temperatures also can be deceiving. While it may be warm during the day when the sun is shining, temperatures can quickly drop overnight.

Pruning during the warmth of day, when the sap has risen in the plants, may deplete energy from the plant. When the mercury drops at night, the plant can suffer.

If you must spend time in the yard in the fall,

tend to the leaves and debris that have already fallen to the ground rather than focusing energy on fall pruning. If you have been diligent during the spring and summer, your shrubs and other plants likely won’t need pruning at this time of year.

Wait until winter before taking out the shears.

At this point, the woody parts of many plants are dormant and will not be harmed or primed to grow by the pruning. Chances are you won’t prune too much as well, as chilly temperatures will keep you from spending too much time outdoors.

When it’s time to prune, consider these other pointers. * Keep tools clean and in good working order. You risk injury if your tools are dull and in poor shape overall. Spend time sharpening pruners and keep manual tools oiled and clean. Debris can lodge itself in clippers, making it more difficult to open and shut them. Wash and dry tools after use, especially when dealing with diseased plants. Otherwise you risk spreading disease to healthy plants. * Cut back stems completely. It’s usually a good idea to prune branches back to the main stem.

Leaving a portion sticking out can catch on people or animals and produce a gathering spot for bacteria and insects. Take out thinner, smaller shoots first before moving on to any dead or dying branches. * Prune dry branches. Do not prune when plants are wet. Pruning damp plants encourages the growth of microbes that can infiltrate the plant.

This is not as significant a problem in the winter, when microbes have already been killed. * Ask an expert. If you are unsure of how and when to prune particular plants, consult with an expert at a nursery or wherever you buy your plants.

4 simple ways to winterize your home As winter approaches, homeowners know they must do certain things to ready their homes for the coming months. Wrapping up the grill and closing the pool are no-brainers, but homeowners also must prioritize winterizing their homes to ensure homes withstand the winter.

Winterizing tasks range from small to big, but each can protect a home and its inhabitants and some can even save homeowners a substantial amount of money. The following are four simple ways to winterize your home.

1. Plug leaks Leaky windows and doorways can cost homeowners money year-round, allowing cold air to escape on hot summer afternoons and letting cold air in on brisk winter nights. When such leaks aren’t fixed, homeowners are more liable to turn up their air conditioners or heaters, unnecessarily padding their energy bills along the way. Before winter arrives, check areas around windows and door frames for leaks, as well as any additional openings, such as chimneys, that may allow cold air in.

Use caulk or weather strips to plug these leaks, and enjoy your warmer home and lower energy bills as winter weather gets colder and colder.

Trimming hanging branches and removing debris from their yards is one simple way homeowners can prepare their properties for winter.

2. Inspect your chimney If your home has a chimney, chances are you have not used it since last winter. During that time, the chimney has likely accumulated some dirt and grime, and may even have served as home to some uninvited critters. As the season for fireside chats approaches, have your chimney serviced by a professional so it’s ready for use and you are not greeted by some unwanted guests upon lighting your first fire.

3. Clear the yard Autumn days, particularly late autumn days, can be gusty, and strong winds can cause branches to fall off trees. Branches big and small can cause damage to cars, siding and roofs, and smaller branches can get clogged in gutters, potentially causing gutters to back up and leading to leaky roofs that damage a home’s interior. Take a walk around your property at least once per week

during the fall, clearing any fallen limbs and trimming branches that appear one strong gust away from falling off of trees. Remove any branches that are hanging over your home and driveway so they don’t pose a threat to your house or vehicles.

4. Turn off outdoor water supplies When temperatures get especially low, pipes with water still in them can freeze and burst, potentially leading to significant water damage.

When you no longer need to water the lawn and when temperatures get too cold to wash your car in the driveway, be sure to shut off the water supply to outdoor spigots and sprinkler systems. Once you do that, drain them so no water is sitting in the pipes when temperatures dip.

There are many ways to winterize a home, and homeowners should take every precaution necessary to ensure their homes are safe and warm as the cold weather season approaches.

Home & Harvest - THE DAILY STAR | SEPT. 19, 20 AND 21, 2018

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Stucco, reclaimed wood and brick can be more eco-friendly than vinyl siding and other materials.

Green options in home siding

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f new siding is on the list of mustdo home projects this year, there are many factors to consider.

Though it’s a transformative renovation, replacement siding is a significant and potentially expensive undertaking. Therefore, careful consideration must be given to the materials used and their maintenance, longevity, insulation factor, and cost.

Many homeowners also want siding that is eco-friendly.

Sustainability is an important consideration for many homeowners.

Data from the National Association of Home Builders’ “Green Multifamily and Single Family Homes 2017 SmartMarket Brief” indicates that at least one-third of single-family and multifamily home builders who were surveyed said that green building is a significant portion of their overall activity (more than 60 percent of their portfolio). By 2022, this number should increase to nearly one-half in both the single-family and multi-

family sectors. Green building has become an important and established part of the residental construction sector.

Where siding is sourced, the materials that go into its fabrication and how well that siding insulates a home are key aspects of its “green factor.”

The following are some of the more sustainable options in home siding.

Reclaimed timber A house sided with clapboard, or a log cabin-inspired look, is iconic.

These types of siding are typically made from insect-repellant pine, cedar, cypress, or redwood. While lumber certified by the Forest Stewardship Council is environmentally friendly, homeowners may want to seek out reclaimed lumber. This wood has history and causes very little environmental impact. Plus, timber salvaged from old buildings or fallen trees may be superior to new wood because it likely came from

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slow-growing, old trees with dense grain.

Brick Avoid any negative environmental impact by choosing locally produced or reclaimed bricks – or those made from post-consumer content. The longevity of bricks can often offset the energy expenditure in their manufacture. Plus, many bricks are made from natural clay, which can be an excellent insulator.

Stucco HouseLogic says traditional stucco is made from sand and Portland cement mixed with water to make a usable plaster. It’s tough and durable – often lasting the life of the house.

Eco-friendly variants include stucco made with an earth-and-lime mixture, offsetting the CO2 emissions associated with cement production.

Stucco can reduce air infiltration that causes drafts in a home.

Fiber-cement Fiber-cement is similar to stucco in that it is made from sand, Portland cement, clay, and wood pulp fibers. It can be fire-resistant and insect-proof and will not rot. It’s a stable material that can recover almost 80 percent of the initial cost, according to the National Association of Realtors®.

Stone This nonrenewable resource can be beautiful on a home and durable, but mining it can impact the environment. If homeowners can use reclaimed or displaced stone, those are more sustainable options. Manufactured stone, which is cement and other materials molded to look like stone, is also aesthetically appealing and more eco-friendly.

Replacing siding is a significant undertaking. Homeowners can consider sustainability when selecting replacement siding materials.

Factors to consider when choosing and applying mulch

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omeowners may associate mulch with springtime lawn and garden care, but mulching in fall can benefit a lawn as well.

According to the Morton Arboretum in Illinois, mulch protects roots against extreme temperatures, and not just those associated with summer heat waves.

Mulch is often connected with its ability to help soil retain moisture during especially warm times of the year, when mulch promotes strong roots that can help lawns and plants survive periods of extreme heat. But when applied in the fall, mulch also inhibits freezing and thawing in winter, reducing the likelihood that plants will be injured.

While applying mulch in fall can be beneficial to lawns, homeowners should first consider a few factors.

• Timing: The Morton Arboretum notes that mulch being applied as winter protection should not be applied too early in the fall, as doing so may delay the soil freezing process. Homeowners should wait until after a hard frost in the fall to apply winter mulch. In many places, hard frost will not appear until late fall.

amounts of water to benefit the soil.

• Nutrients: Humus is an organic component of soil that forms when leaves and other plant materials decompose. Organic mulches provide humus and decompose over time, adding nutrients into the soil. The Morton Arboretum recommends that homeowners use organic mulch that was composted or treated prior to application so any weeds, insects or microorganisms are killed.

When applied in the fall, mulch also inhibits freezing and thawing in winter, reducing the likelihood that plants will be injured.

• Texture: The Morton Arboretum recommends medium-textured mulch. Fine particles may pack down and retain moisture that will evaporate before it reaches the plant roots. Materials that are too coarse may be incapable of holding sufficient

• Application: Correct application of the mulch is essential. Applying too much mulch can adversely affect lawns, plants and soil. In addition, excessive application can cause decay and make lawns and plants more vulnerable to disease. Homeowners uncertain about when and how to apply mulch in the fall can consult with a lawn care professional to devise a plan that ensures their lawns and gardens hold up against winter weather.

Mulch may be widely associated with spring lawn care, but applying mulch in the fall can benefit lawns and gardens as well.

Home & Harvest - THE DAILY STAR | SEPT. 19, 20 AND 21, 2018

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Take advantage of fall weather to prep gardens for next year

By Allison Collins Contributing Writer

F PHOTOS BY ALLISON COLLINS

Autumn is when to replant and divide hostas.

Experts say whether or not to cut back perennials, such as lilies, is a personal preference.

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all is the perfect time to tidy flower and vegetable gardens.

“As far as general clean-up goes, anything you do in the fall makes your job that much easier in the spring,” Carla Crim, special educator and horticulturist with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Delaware County, said.

“Plus, late fall weather is generally much nicer and drier than early spring.”

Though prepping a garden for cold weather is part personal preference, Crim said, fall offers a chance to sort and survey your plot while recycling abundant natural materials.

“If you have a healthy garden, you don’t technically have to do anything other than protect or put up any plants, planters or decorations that are sensitive to freezing conditions,” she said. “However, most gardeners encounter fungal diseases during the gardening season. Sick plants should be removed and discarded, so that the spores do not proliferate.”

Sylvia Ross, CCE-certified Master Gardener and member of the Hill & Valley Garden Club in Sidney, said, “Fall is a time to clean out spent herbaceous materials … to prevent diseases and pathogens from spreading and becoming fungus.”

To repurpose and reuse, Crim suggests making mulch and compost.

“Early fall is the perfect time to make compost,” she said. “Between the fallen leaves (browns) and the still-thriving plants (greens), you have everything you need to start a pile that will decompose quickly.”

To ensure nutrient-dense soil in spring, Crim said, try a technique called “lasagna gardening.”

“Place flattened cardboard boxes or newspaper sections directly on the bed to smother weeds,” she said. “Then add layers of browns and greens.

Over the winter, the layers will decompose and you will start with beautiful, rich ground in the spring.”

“If you aren’t going to incorporate your leaves into compost,” Crim said, “consider shredding them and using them as mulch. Many leaf blowers have a reverse feature and can quickly turn a leaf

“Early fall is the perfect time to make compost. Between the fallen leaves (browns) and the stillthriving plants (greens), you have everything you need to start a pile that will decompose quickly.”

Carla Crim, special educator and horticulturist with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Delaware County

pile into free mulch. Another option is to run over leaves with a lawnmower with the collection bag engaged.”

Mulching, Crim and Ross said, is an increasingly popular garden prep tactic.

“Heavy mulching has become the preferred method of weed suppression, because it adds nutrients and maintains soil structure,” Crim said.

Ross noted that fans of mulching advise about six inches of ground cover.

Fall makes a great time to plant and purge bulbs, such as miniature daffodils, from flower beds.

“(Soil) cultivation with a rototiller or hand tools is another option,” Crim said. “It can be done in the fall so you are all set for spring, and you won’t have to deal with as much mud.” She noted that bare soil can invite weeds and erosion, though, and said just-tilled earth should be planted with cover crops such as winter rye or clover six weeks before the first frost.

What gets left in the ground, Crim and Ross said, depends on an individual’s fondness for butterflies and birds.

“If you weed all summer, then you won’t have a lot of seeds on the ground,” Ross said. “But we like the birds, so we don’t cut back flowers with seeds.

And if you want to save the butterflies, you leave everything.”

“If you prefer a tidy winter landscape, perennials can be cut back to just above the crown of the plant,” Crim advised. “Otherwise, they can be left to stand throughout the winter. Many native plants like black eyed-Susan and purple coneflower have nice seed heads that provide winter food for the birds.”

Certain perennials, Crim said, do require a little TLC.

“Rosemary is a popular herb that just can’t take our cold winters,” she said. “It can be stored in a cool (but not freezing), dry spot like a garage or an enclosed porch; any tropical plants can be treated like houseplants if you have ample sun; and bulbs of tender plants like gladiolus or dahlia should be dug up, dried and stored for winter.”

“Some perennials are just not set up to survive this far north,” Ross added. “But if you put a layer of straw, leaves or mulch down, they may survive the winter.”

And, while fall is great for planting bulbs, Crim and Ross said, it’s also ideal for purging and sharing them.

“Fall is a great time to dig up, divide and relocate bulbs,” Crim said. “The same goes for perennial plants. It is much easier to identify, dig and divide your plants than it will be in the early spring.”

“If you’ve been eyeing your neighbors hostas all summer,” she added, “now would be a good time to ask for a division or propose a swap.”

“You put in a few bulbs and then they become too crowded,” Ross explained. “They’re hardgrouped, there are too many babies and then they can’t make a bloom—that’s when you know

it’s time to take them out and you’ll find a huge amount of wonderful stuff under the surface to give to your friends.”

To learn more about composting, visit cwmi.css. cornell.edu.

Additionally, reach Master Gardeners in Otsego or Schoharie counties at mastergardener-otsego@ cornell.edu or 547-2536, ext. 228.

Home & Harvest - THE DAILY STAR | SEPT. 19, 20 AND 21, 2018

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Reduce cold-weather

fire risk

Plenty of things heat up when the temperature drops, including the risk for fire hazards. Fireplaces, stoves, heating systems, candles, and even electric lights are used more often during the winter than any other time of year, so it makes sense that the risk of home fires increases when the mercury drops.

The U.S. Fire Administration says 905 people die in winter home fires each year. Cooking is the

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leading cause of all home fires and contributes to around $2 billion in property loss each year. Understanding potential risks and exercising caution can help homeowners protect themselves, their families and their homes from fire.

Cooking Home heating fires peak between the hours of 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., when many people are home preparing dinner. The following steps, courtesy of the American Red Cross, can improve safety in the kitchen and reduce the likelihood of a home fire.

• Never leave cooking food unattended, as it can take just seconds for fires to ignite.

• Keep anything that can catch fire away from the stove or other appliances that generate heat.

• Clean regularly to prevent grease buildup.

• Make sure appliances are turned off before leaving the room or going to bed.

Heating The National Fire Protection Association warns that heating is the second leading cause of home fires, deaths and injuries in the United States. The NFPA offers these safety guidelines.

• Install heating appliances according to manufacturers’ instructions or have a professional do the installation.

• Fuel-burning equipment needs to vent to the outside.

• Never use an oven to heat a home.

• Keep anything that can burn away from heating equipment, including portable space heaters.

• Clean and inspect heating appliances regularly.

• Turn off portable heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.

Electric The National Safety Council estimates that between 600 and 1,000 people die each year from electrocution. Electricity also can contribute to home fires. The Energy Education Council offers these safety suggestions.

• Never force plugs into outlets.

• Check that cords are not frayed or cracked.

Do not run cords under carpets or place them in high-traffic areas.

• Use extension cords only on a temporary basis.

• Make sure light bulbs are the proper wattage for fixtures.

• Install ground fault circuit interrupters in kitchens, baths, laundry rooms, and elsewhere, making sure to test them regularly.

• Check periodically for loose wall receptacles and loose wires. Listen for popping or sizzling sounds behind walls.

Home fires are no joke and can be prevented with simple safety checks.

Maximize fall and winter energy savings with simple tips (MS) – By Scott McGillivray As temperatures decrease during the fall and winter months, energy usage and costs tend to climb. These five energy-saving tips for your home will ensure the comfort of your family and your wallet.

1. Adjust your thermostat. Lower the heat on your thermostat while you are away from home and before you go to bed. Better yet, invest in a programmable thermostat so you don’t have to give it a second thought.

2. Seal gaps around windows and doors. Cracks and gaps around windows and doors can let cold drafts into your home. Weather-stripping or caulking will seal these problem areas and keep your home warmer, without having to turn up the heat.

3. Insulate well to protect your home from the cold. Add insulation

to your basement walls, headers or attic to make a noticeable difference in the temperature of your home and its energy consumption. A mineral wool product specifically designed for thermal performance, such as Roxul Comfortbatt, is ideal. This type of batt insulation will also provide protection from fire, moisture and unwanted noise. Adding insulation is one of the simplest and most-cost effective ways to increase home energy efficiency.

4. Make use of natural sources of heat. Pull back your curtains to let natural light in. The sun can help to warm a room with its rays on a bright fall or winter day. If there are any large windows in your home that don’t receive much sunlight, keep the curtains closed to form a barrier from the cold.

5. Use ceiling fans to your advantage.

In the winter, set the fan to rotate clockwise. The blades will pull the air up and around, redirecting warm air that rises back down into the living space. The effect can help you lower your thermostat by two degrees in the winter. While cutting back on energy may seem more challenging as the weather gets colder, it doesn’t have

to be. There are many no- or low-cost methods to conserve energy that can provide consistent savings over time.

Scott McGillivray is the award-winning TV host of the hit series Income Property on HGTV Canada, a full-time real estate investor, contractor, author, and educator. Follow him on Twitter @smcgillivray.

Home & Harvest - THE DAILY STAR | SEPT. 19, 20 AND 21, 2018

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Protect your home

(and more) from winter’s freeze Freezing temperatures may be good for ice skating or building snowmen, but sub-freezing temperatures can be dangerous for the average person and his or her home.

Cold weather often leaves people scurrying to do whatever is necessary to safeguard themselves from the big chill. But it’s important homeowners also protect their homes in cold weather.

Plumbing Plumbing and pipes may be vulnerable to cold weather. Frozen pipes may burst and cause substantial damage to a home, potentially causing flooding and structural damage.

Homeowners should disconnect and drain garden hoses before winter arrives. Water to outdoor hose bibs should be turned off, though the valves on these outdoor faucets

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should be left open to drain. Also, outdoor faucets can be covered with insulating foam covers.

The Red Cross says pipes that freeze most frequently include pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces.

Close vents to the outside in areas like attics and basements to limit the amount of cold air that gets indoors.

Think about insulating unheated areas, as well as using pipe sleeves, heat tape or wraps on exposed pipes.

By opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors, homeowners can allow warm air from a home to reach pipes under the sink. During extreme freezes, keep cold water dripping from a sink to prevent pipes from freezing.

Service HVAC systems It’s important to ensure that heating systems are working properly prior to

the cold-weather season. It may only take hours for the interior of a home to reach dangerously low temperatures without adequate heat. Homeowners should schedule annual checkups of furnaces and hot water heaters.

Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks, install a clean air filter and make sure all thermostats are working properly.

Have fuel ready Homeowners who heat their homes with oil, wood or coal should make sure they have plenty of fuel on hand in advance of winter. Shortages can occur, and it may take some time for new fuel to arrive in the midst of a cold snap.

As a precaution, homeowners can rely on portable space heaters to fill in the heating gaps during freezing temperatures. Exercise extreme caution with these devices, turning them off

when leaving the room and remembering to avoid overloading outlets.

Protect outside Drain birdbaths, clean out downspouts and remove water from other items where water can freeze and cause damage. Inspect roofing prior to the snowy season, but stay off roofs during freezing weather.

Remove snow shovels and other winter gear from storage and make sure the items are easily accessible during snowstorms.

Winter’s bite can be severe. Homeowners can protect themselves and their properties when the freeze sets in.

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Clean indoor air can help reduce asthma attacks Did you know that, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 25 million Americans, including roughly seven million children, have asthma? It’s true, and those numbers have steadily risen in recent years.

Asthma is more than occasional wheezing or feeling out of breath during physical activity. Asthma is chronic and can lead to coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, fast breathing, and chest tightness, states the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. In the 21st century, people spend significant time indoors at home, school or work, and indoor air environments could be triggers for asthma. Improving indoor air quality can help people breathe clearly. The AAFA notes that the following agents can adversely affect indoor air quality, potentially triggering asthma attacks.

Allergens Allergens such as mold, dust mites, pet dander and fur, and waste from insects or rodents thrive in many homes.

Ensuring indoor air quality is high can cut back on the amount of allergens in the air. People with asthma can invest in an air purifier and vacuum regularly, being sure to use a HEPA-equipped appliance. Routinely replacing HVAC system filters can help prevent allergens from blowing around the house.

Also, frequent maintenance of HVAC systems will ensure they are operating safely and not contributing to poor indoor air quality.

Mold can be mitigated by reducing moisture in a home. Moist environments in the kitchen and bathroom may promote mold growth. Ventilation is key to keep mold at bay.

Tobacco smoke Thirdhand smoke, or THS, may be unfamiliar to many people. A 2011 report published in Environmental Health Perspectives says THS is an invisible combination of gases and particles that can cling to clothing, cushions, carpeting, and other materials long after secondhand smoke has cleared from a room. Studies have indicated that residual nicotine levels can

be found in house dust where people smoke or once smoked. Studies have indicated that smoke compounds can adsorb onto surfaces and then desorb back into air over time.

Keeping tobacco smoke out of a home can improve indoor air quality and personal health.

VOCs Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are gases released from commonly used products. These can include paints and varnishes, cleaning supplies, air fresheners, new furniture, and new carpet. People with asthma may find that VOCs can trigger attacks. Airing out items, reducing usage of products that are heavily scented and choosing low- or no-VOC products can help. Making cleaning products from baking soda, vinegar and liquid oil soap also can keep indoor air quality high.

Homeowners who plan to renovate their homes can consider using the appropriate specifications for HVAC systems to promote good indoor air, as well as address any other potential problems that may be compromising indoor air quality.

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Design a more functional pantry

any homeowners wish they had more storage space, and kitchens are one area where people seemingly can always use more storage.

Despite a desire for more kitchen space, until recently, kitchen pantries fell out of favor. Builders and architects may have thought that close proximity to supermarkets as well as multi-use cabinets in kitchens would offset the need for pantries. But according to a recent survey from the National Association of Home Builders, a kitchen pantry is the most desirable kitchen feature for buyers in the market for a new home.

According to a 2016 survey from ReportLinker, 98 percent of Americans say cooking at home is their preferred way to prepare a meal. And despite the wide array of restaurants, prepared meals and fast food options nearby, more than one-third of people cook at home daily, with nearly 50 percent cooking between three and six days a week.

In order to accommodate for spending more time in the kitchen, homeowners are directing additional attention to kitchen preparation and storage features. In fact, one recent trend in kitchen renovations is creating custom-designed pantries.

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Locate the appropriate space Ideally, pantries should be in or adjacent to the kitchen. But not every home layout allows for this setup. Some homeowners need to move storage pantries into the garage, the basement or a mud/ laundry room.

Various factors should be considered before placing a pantry outside a kitchen. What is the climate?

Will food spoil? Is there a possibility that vermin or insects can infiltrate the room and access food?

These factors will dictate whether to have closed cabinets, air-tight bins or open shelves or if other modifications must be made to the room prior to building.

Choose the type of pantry Accessibility is essential in a pantry. Everything should be easily reached and grabbed as needed without having to move too many things. Ideally, foods should be arranged in a single layer so that all items can be viewed at a glance. Shelves of various depths and heights can accommodate items of different sizes. Adjustable shelves are ideal because they can be modified as foods change. Sliding drawers can improve reach in cabinets.

In smaller spaces, French door-style reach-in cabinets are convenient and flexible. In complete kitchen remodels or new constructions, walk-in pantries offer the most space and flexibility.

Must-have features Pantries serve different functions in different homes. For the bulk shopper, a pantry with plenty of room for large items will be needed.

Lighting can be beneficial in all pantries. Lights can improve visibility when trying to locate items.

Others prefer an outlet for charging hand-held vacuums or other small appliances. Counter space in the pantry enables homeowners to unload groceries directly onto pantry shelves.

For pantries located outside of the kitchen, builtin freezers can maximize storage possibilities, especially for those who freeze-and-eat after bulk shopping ventures.

Pantries are popular features that homeowners can customize depending on their storage needs and the amount of time they spend in their kitchens.

How to keep pets safe in winter weather The arrival of cooler temperatures sparks various changes. Chilly air and precipitation can be dangerous, especially to pets that are unaccustomed to extreme changes in temperature.

Pet owners may be well aware of the hazards of warm weather, including the threat of leaving pets in hot cars.

But cold weather also has its share of risks. Heed these tips to keep pets safe and secure.

• Schedule a well visit. The American Veterinary Medical Association suggests scheduling a visit with a veterinarian to check for any medical issues. Cold weather can aggravate symptoms of certain conditions, such as arthritis. A thorough examination can shed light on potential problems.

• Keep homes humidified. Going in and out of the house and moving from

A warm coat, a cozy spot to sleep and limited time spent outdoors can keep pets safe during winter. cold air to dry indoor heat can affect pets’ skin. Itching and flaking may result, causing pets to scratch at such areas. Maintain humidity in the home for comfort. The ASPCA also says to reduce bathing to help preserve essential oils on the skin.

• Protect paws outdoors. Pet paws are sensitive to sand, ice, snow, and chemical ice melts. Massage petroleum jelly or another protectant onto

paw pads, or consider the use of pet booties.

• Keep pets indoors more often. Pets should not remain outdoors for long stretches of time in frigid temperatures, even if they are accustomed to roaming during other seasons, advises The Humane Society of the United States.

• Provide options for sleeping. Come the winter, cats and dogs may need

new sleep spaces to avoid drafts and stay warm. Give them other spots they can call their own.

• Consider a sweater or vest. Some pets are more tolerant to the cold than others. However, some dogs and cats may benefit from a sweater, vest or coat designed for pets to offer a little more insulation.

• Update identification and contact information. Snow and ice can mask scent cues that help pets find their way home. Update contact information and make sure pets’ collars are on tightly.

• Keep coolant and antifreeze locked away. Coolant and antifreeze are lethal to dogs and cats and should be kept out of reach. Clean up any spills from vehicles promptly.

• Provide fresh food and water. Pets may burn more calories trying to stay warm. Be sure the animal has a little extra food and plenty of water to stay sated and hydrated.

Winter weather requires pets owners to make changes so pets can remain happy and safe.

Home & Harvest - THE DAILY STAR | SEPT. 19, 20 AND 21, 2018

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SEPT. 19, 20 AND 21, 2018 | Home & Harvest - THE DAILY STAR