Ss 040816

Guide to

Home Design, Lawn Garden

&

a blank slate media/litmor publications advertising section • april 8, 2016

36 home, design, lawn & Garden • News Times Newspapers, Friday, April 8, 2016

Cost-cutting measures for your renovation project

DIY skills to your home’s interior, you run the risk of making serious and costly mistakes, such as damaging plumbing or demolishing a load-bearing wall.

H

ome renovation projects can help homeowners transform their homes into their own personal oases. But such transformations do not typically come cheap, costing homeowners tens of thousands of dollars depending on the scope of the project.

Each year, Remodeling magazine releases its “Cost vs. Value Report,” which helps homeowners determine which projects are likely to provide the best return on investment upon selling a home and which are less likely to deliver substantial returns. For example, in 2015 homeowners who added wood decks to their homes could expect to recoup nearly 81 percent of the cost of that project at resale, while those who remodeled a home office recouped less than 50 percent of the cost of that project at resale.

The cost of home renovation projects and the potential return on investing in

such projects is a big consideration for homeowners. But even those working on tight budgets can find ways to save without resorting to lower quality materials or poor workmanship.

Work with salvaged materials. The cost of materials can be considerable, but homeowners can cut those costs by choosing salvaged materials for their projects. This may only be an option for DIYers, as some contractors refuse to work with salvaged materials for fear of liability down the road if the materials do not hold up. Salvaged materials benefit the environment because they

are reused rather than discarded, and homeowners can even support Habitat for Humanity by buying their salvaged materials from one of the nonprofit organization’s ReStores, which sell used furniture, appliances, accessories and materials.

Do some of your own dirty work.

Even if you are not a seasoned DIYer, you can save some money on labor costs by performing some of your own demolition work. Such DIY demo work is best left to exterior projects, such as breaking up an old sidewalk or discarding an old deck. When you take your

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Consider labor-friendly projects.

Labor accounts for a substantial amount of renovation costs, so if your budget is especially tight consider projects that are less labor-intensive. Such projects might not be as glamorous, but they can make great investments. For example, the “2015 Cost vs. Value Report” found that replacing existing entryway doors with 20-gauge steel units cost slightly more than $1,200 but provided a better than 100 percent return on investment.

Tend to such minor projects for now while saving for larger, more expensive projects.

Comparison shop and exercise patience. Much like you might comparison shop when purchasing a new appliance, comparison shop when looking for a contractor as well. Ask for estimates in writing from each contractor you speak with, but be careful not to choose a contractor based strictly on the estimate.

You want a contractor you’re comfortable with and who understands your vision, not just one who’s coming in at the lowest price. In addition, contractors are typically more flexible with pricing during their offseason, which means winter in many regions.

News Times Newspapers, Friday, April 8, 2016 • home, design, Lawn & garden

37

L

andscaping can be a rewarding hobby that instills a sense of pride in homeowners. Whether you prefer to get your hands dirty planting perennials or devote the bulk of your attention to crafting a lush, green lawn, chances are you will run into a problem during lawn and garden season.

Some problems are easy to identify, while others are more complex. The following are a handful of diseases homeowners may encounter when spending time on maintaining their lawns and gardens over the next several months.

Anthracnose Anthracnose is a term used to describe various diseases that produce a host of unsightly symptoms. Those symptoms include tan to brown leaf spots or blotches; distorted, cupped or curled leaves; irregular defoliation, such as leaves falling in spring; and dieback, a condition in which trees or shrubs begin to die from the tips of their leaves or roots backward. Permanent damage due to anthracnose is rare, but the diseases can weaken trees over time and that can leave them vulnerable to pest infestations.

Brown Patch Brown patch is unsightly and most likely to occur during summer. According to the Penn State Center for Turfgrass Science, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue and bentgrasses are the grass species most susceptible to brown patch. When a lawn is suffering from brown patch, its leaves and stems die out in large, circular patches. In high-cut grasses, these patches can stretch from a few

inches to several feet. Tall fescue grasses may not exhibit symptoms of brown patch in patches. In such instances, the brown patch may be noticeable on individual leaves that feature tan or light brown lesions, and the Center for Turfgrass Science notes that these lesions will be surrounded by dark brown borders.

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The American Phytopathological Society notes that dollar spot refers to a disease of the leaves of turfgrass. Grasses suffering from dollar spot will have white to straw-colored lesions that progress downward from the leaf tip or laterally across leaf blades. Leaf blades affected by dollar spot may have several small lesions or one large lesion, and in some instances, the entire leaf blade may be affected. Turfgrass affected by dollar spot may be susceptible to weed invasions.

Summer Patch Summer patch is most common in warm climates and is characterized by yellow to straw-colored patches that can be several inches or several feet in diameter. According to Scotts Lawnservice, summer patch is often linked to shallow root systems that result from poor soil conditions.

Large swaths of grass suffering from summer patch can be an eyesore, appearing as though the grass has burned under the summer sun.

Lawns, gardens, trees and shrubs are susceptible to the elements.

Identifying lawn diseases quickly can help homeowners find solutions before the problems escalate.

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38 home, design, lawn & Garden • News Times Newspapers, Friday, April 8, 2016

Create a budget-friendly home landscape H omeowners understandably envy the award-worthy photo spreads in lawn and garden magazines, wanting to emulate those same looks on their own properties. Scores of designers and landscape architects are involved in the process of creating those amazing lush lawns and perfectly placed plantings. Although not every homeowner has the budget to create lavish landscape designs, it’s still possible for homeowners to create lawns they can be proud of.

piece of art or a landscape layout in a lawn and gardening magazine.

Use photos of other gardens or neighbors’ yards as inspiration and build off of them. As long as the theme is cohesive, it will look pleasing to the eye.

Establish your budget. The first step in any project is to determine how much money you can devote to the job. Once you have established the budget, all other factors can be built around it.

Consider the space and how you want to use it. Understanding the space will help you better allocate your budget. If your yard is more of a retreat, look for ways to create privacy and a vacation feel. If you have kids and entertaining friends is a main priority, focus on recreational aspects, such as a pool, playset and some durable plants. Understanding how to allocate your budget will help you to avoid spending money frivolously.

Find an inspiration piece. Great landscapes are inspired by many things, whether it’s a memorable

Think about reclaimed or repurposed materials. Brand new items can quickly eat up a budget.

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However, repurposing salvaged or inexpensive items can stretch that budget while adding some unique flair to a landscape. See if you can find an outdoor patio set that someone is giving away or selling for a lower price. All it takes is a coat of paint and some new cushions to make it look like new. Discarded bricks or stones can be worked into a patio space or used to create raised garden beds. Purchase inexpensive flower pots and then paint them to make them look like stone or another desired material.

Buy native plants. Native plants, shrubs, trees, and flowers will fare better than non-native, exotic plants.

That means you’ll have to spend less time and money nurturing them into health, and less money having to replace plants that cannot withstand your climate.

Consider perennial plants. Perennials may cost more at the outset, but the savings will be realized in the years to come.

Hire a professional. It may seem counterintuitive to spend money on a landscaping professional when you’ve established a strict budget, but that’s one way to save money.

Landscape artists or garden designers have the experience to guide you in the right direction and help you avoid potentially costly mistakes.

Use gravel in spots where plants don’t thrive. Gravel is an inexpensive landscaping material that can fill in voids where plants or ground cover simply do not flourish. Those working on limited budgets may be happy to learn gravel is typically less expensive than concrete or pavers.

Ask friends or family for clippings.

Don’t be shy about admiring the plantings of those you know. Flatter their good taste and ask if you can have some clippings to propagate yourself. These clippings can turn into lush plants in no time — with no additional spending required.

With some frugal spending, planning and budgeting, anyone can create a beautiful landscape.

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News Times Newspapers, Friday, April 8, 2016 • home, design, Lawn & garden

5 things to consider before expanding your home

H

omeowners who feel their homes are a little confined may be interested in expanding their homes to make them more comfortable and serviceable. Several questions may come to mind when homeowners are considering adding on to an existing home.

Expanding a home requires careful consideration. While the end results can be spectacular, expansion is typically a long and costly process that will impede on the lifestyles of a home’s inhabitants during the renovation process. Expect loud noises, work crews and sawdust throughout the project. Depending on which areas are being renovated, residents may feel their lives are in upheaval until the expansion project has been completed.

2. Visit your building inspection or municipal office to learn the local regulations. You want to ensure that any renovations you make are done in keeping with safety codes and laws.

3. While you’re thinking of your neighbors, give them the heads up on your potential plans. This way they will not be surprised by the extra noise and activity when the renovation begins.

Familiarizing yourself with the expansion process and recognizing potential snags along the way can make planning and coping that much easier.

4. Remodeling can cost anywhere from $200 to $600 per square foot added. You’ll need to figure out a way to pay for the renovations, and you may consider refinancing your home. Make sure it is a smart time financially to do so based on current real estate market conditions. Also know that additions will likely increase your home insurance coverage needs. Consult with the insurance company about estimated charges and any restrictions they have.

1. Many homeowners first consult with a contractor when mulling over expansions. However, you may want to speak with an architect first. He or she may be able to suggest renovations that fit with your neighborhood and appeal to prospective buyers when you decide to sell your home in the future.

5. Consider a standalone structure when mulling over your options.

Sometimes the cost of putting up a free-standing office or another structure on your property may end up being less expansive than expanding on what you already have. Think creatively and research all of your options before committing to a project.

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News Times Newspapers, Friday, April 8, 2016 • home, design, Lawn & garden

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42 home, design, lawn & Garden • News Times Newspapers, Friday, April 8, 2016

Find and maintain the right carpet for you Carpeting remains a go-to flooring material in modern homes. In fact, many homes offer a blend of both carpeting in some rooms and different flooring choices in others.

Upon choosing carpet, it is important that homeowners follow some guidelines to prolong a carpet’s longevity and maintain its style. The following are some common carpeting dos and don’ts.

Homeowners should consider as many variables as possible, including foot traffic in a given room, before installing carpeting in their homes.

C

arpets provide both practical and aesthetic appeal inside a home. In winter, carpets help keep homes warm, and the right color carpet can add to design schemes.

While rugs may have originated in the Far East, North America also has some rich carpet history.

According to The Carpet and Rug Institute, the United States carpet industry began in 1791 when the first woven carpet mill opened in Philadelphia.

Others soon followed suit. Tufted carpets and machine-powered manufacturing helped churn out yards upon yards of carpeting, making it a popular, affordable and common addition to homes, especially after the post-World War II housing boom.

DO consider the room’s purpose and foot traffic before shopping for carpeting. Make a list of the attributes desired (e.g., soundproofing, easy care, high pile) and present these to the salesperson so he or she can help you make the best choice.

DON’T rush into flooring choices. Unlike paint colors, flooring materials are more permanent choices that are only updated every several years or more.

Weigh all of your options before diving in.

DO consider conservative colors and styles. Neutral hues and patterns will blend better with furniture options. This means you can change furniture out and still keep the existing carpeting, which complements any new pieces. Also, if there’s a chance you might sell your home in the near future, buyers tend to look for a neutral color scheme they can make their own.

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DON’T skimp on padding to save a few dollars on the carpet installation. The carpeting needs a solid foundation to last and look its best. Inadequate padding can lead to extra and noticeable wear and tear.

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DO stain-protect rugs and carpeting, which can help repel stains that would otherwise become permanent and can prolong the longevity of the flooring.

DON’T forget to vacuum carpets frequently to prevent ground-in dirt and debris.

DO pick textured carpets to conceal footprints and vacuum track marks.

News Times Newspapers, Friday, April 8, 2016 • home, design, Lawn & garden

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44 home, design, lawn & Garden • News Times Newspapers, Friday, April 8, 2016

How to tend to an indoor herb garden

F

resh herbs and recently picked ingredients can add flavor to any meal. A home chef can even improve the flavor of store-bought or prepared foods with an herb garnish that can transform otherwise bland dishes into something you’ll want to eat again and again.

Harvesting fresh herbs is easy for homeowners who have gardens right in their backyards. However, everyone does not have a backyard, and even those that do might find their gardens threatened by changing seasons or unwanted critters. When gardens are moved indoors, the bounty of fresh ingredients continues no matter the date on the calendar.

A sunny location is necessary when cultivating an indoor herb garden.

Herb gardens are perhaps some of the easiest gardens to cultivate indoors because they don’t require large pots or much space.

The plants themselves are relatively compact, and it only takes a pinch of herbs to give a meal some extra flavor.

When growing herbs indoors,

your indoor growing area must have adequate light to simulate the longer days of summer; otherwise, the plants may go dormant.

It’s ideal to have a southern exposure on the herbs, with at least eight hours of sunlight per day.

If you do not live in a particularly sunny locale, consider supplementing the plants with grow lights, which will provide the full spectrum of light the plants need to thrive.

hatching of insect eggs. Soil from outdoors may be more susceptible to insects that are already living in the dirt. Instead of soil from outside, use packaged soil or a nonsoil alternative that will hold moisture without the added risk of bugs. If small insects appear, use a mist of soapy water to kill the bugs without harming the plants or making the herbs unfit for eating.

Indoor air can become too dry for herbs, so you will need to compensate by providing humidity. While there may be added humidity in a kitchen greenhouse window, it still may not be enough to keep the plants healthy. Think about misting the plants daily to create some extra humidity, or place herb pots on top of a water-filled tray with pebbles so the evaporating water will add moisture without making the roots soggy.

Group herbs together according to their watering needs to make maintenance that much easier.

New sprouts generally need more water than established plants.

Insects are another threat to indoor gardens because there is no cold weather to inhibit the

Prune the herbs as needed for recipes. If the herbs experience a growth spurt, trim some of the plants and freeze the herbs for later use.

Many indoor herb gardeners begin by growing parsley, chives, oregano, and basil, but you can experiment with just about any herb.

News Times Newspapers, Friday, April 8, 2016 • home, design, Lawn & garden

Simple steps to a greener lawn M any homeowners aspire to have lush green lawns. Thriving, healthy lawns can make homeowners proud and improve their property values, as the lawns make homes more attractive to prospective buyers when those homes hit the market. While lush lawns won’t suddenly appear overnight, homeowners can take certain steps toward creating the stunning green lawns of their dreams.

Don’t overreact to brown lawns.

Lawns can turn brown for various reasons, but overreacting at the first sign of brown grass can make the situation worse. Some lawns turn brown because they have gone dormant to save energy for the cooler and more damp days to come. Applying fertilizer in such situations can damage rather than revitalize lawns.

Fertilizers or chemicals applied to brown lawns may burn the lawn, creating additional stress that potentially hinders the lawns’ recovery.

Aerate compacted soil. Compacted soil may be the culprit behind discolored lawns. Over time, soils of all kinds can become compacted, which prevents moisture from reaching a lawn’s roots. As a result, the roots don’t grow and the grass is denied the nutrients it needs to thrive. Aeration combats compacted soil by poking tiny holes in the ground to loosen the soil. Speak with a landscaping professional about the best time to aerate, which typically only needs to be done once per year. As compact-

ed soil becomes looser, the lawn will become more resistant to drought and begin to resemble the lush green lawn you’re aiming for.

Raise your mower blades. Some homeowners set their mower blades to the lowest possible setting so they can extend the intervals between cuts and reduce the number of times they mow in the hot summer sun. But cutting the grass too short exposes the soil to the sun, making it difficult for soil to retain moisture and promote deep, strong plant roots. When raising the blades, inspect them to make sure they are still sharp. Dull blades won’t cut the grass as cleanly as sharp ones, potentially causing tears in grass blades that invite disease and contribute to poor moisture retention.

Address pest problems. Pests are unwanted guests who affect lawns in various ways, depending on the type of pest. Grubs feed on grass roots, while mites feed on the nutrient-rich juices that lawns need to thrive. Pest control may depend on the type of pest and how advanced the infestation is, so speak with a landscaping professional about your pest problems before attempting to combat the problem on your own. Letting a pest problem fester may force you to replace the lawn entirely, but addressing it promptly can likely save you both the cost and heartache associated with such a project.

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46 home, design, lawn & Garden • News Times Newspapers, Friday, April 8, 2016

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Did you know?

Fences can provide privacy and transform backyards into calming places to relax and unwind. But fences also may lead to disputes with neighbors if installation is not carried out with etiquette. Always place the fence within your property lines, which can be determined by examining a land survey for your home.

Inform your neighbors of your intention to erect a fence, and give any concerns they might have substantial consideration.

Face the more aesthetically appealing side of the fence outward to the street and to neighbors’ yards. In addition, maintain the fence once it is installed so it does not become a neighborhood eyesore that irks your neighbors.