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Winter 2025 | complimentary

Home Remodels and New Builds f Aging in Place

By Mark Okrant

If you have reached retirement age or have parents and other loved ones who are approaching that milestone, this article will be of interest to you. Nearly a decade ago, my wife and I moved into a retirement community in central New Hampshire. Each year, there are millions more people like us. Today, there are approximately 62 million people aged 65-plus in the United States. Slightly more than one-fifth of New Hampshire’s population—or an estimated 280 thousand people—have reached retirement age. The vast majority of these live independently at home.

In our case, my wife and I believed the brand-new, free-standing house we purchased after retirement was perfect. Jump ahead several years, and as life’s obstacles materialized, we realized that our beautiful home lacked some basic amenities that would make our lives easier and safer moving forward. Let’s look at some of the techniques that can address this.

According to www.bankrate.com, building and remodeling for elderly residents, also known as “aging in place” modifications, can help seniors live independently far longer. These modifications can range from simple upgrades of existing houses to more extensive construction projects. Here are some things the www.bankrate. com site describes when considering building or remodeling houses for elderly residents:

• Home modifications- renovations and remodels geared towards seniors can help people age in place, living independently and safely for a longer period

• Aging-in-place modifications- range from simple, inexpensive upgrades that make the home more accessible to very complex changes

• Financing for home modifications- may come from the equity seniors have built in their houses, personal loans, as well as public or private housing assistance programs

Simply put, depending upon the condition of our residences, remaining in place necessitates making house modifications (Americans with Disabilities Act) that serve us as we age and/or become impaired. To promote independent living necessitates making physical changes to our homes—removing potential hazards and making houses more accessible.

A modification can be anything from installing a shower bench to creating an entire ground-floor primary suite, thereby eliminating the necessity to walk up and down stairs. According to Fixr—the highly regarded online cost-quoting site—these changes generally range from $3,000 to $15,000, with the average US cost being $9,500. The decision to move forward is a difficult one. No senior citizen is anxious to part with a large sum of money. The decision must be weighed against the alternative—spending your final years in an assisted living facility.

What exactly do we mean by these “aging in place modifications?” These can be additions and changes to the exterior and/or interior of one’s home and may range from simple modifications to more complex ones.

Depending upon how capable you are with tools, some simple modifications can be do-it-yourself jobs. Here are several examples:

• adding easy-grip door knobs and pulls

• swapping knobs for levers

• installing adjustable handheld shower heads

• rearranging furniture for better passage

• removal of trip hazards such as carpeting or floor saddles

• installing mats and non-slip floor coverings

In some circumstances, more complex modifications necessitate hiring a professional contractor; examples are:

• installing handrails

• adding automatic outdoor lighting

• installing automatic push-button doors

• replacing flooring that provides a smooth surface

• installing doorway ramps

As I prepared to write this article, I evaluated my own living space and those of my neighbors. The picture was not a pretty one. Essential modifications were missing inside our houses and in the immediate outdoor area surrounding them. How do the following match up with your own situation?

In our bathroom, none of this list of potentially essential elements is present: there are no grab bars nor railings in any of our tubs or showers; the flooring is anything but non-slip; the shower has a distinctive stepover curb; and there are no shower benches.

In our kitchen, the contractor did provide two of the four essential elements. We do have higher countertops and a lever faucet. However, the cabinet shelves do not pull out for easy access and there are no open shelves. Most agencies that provide direction for home redesign have indicated that senior citizens’ beds should be set lower to the ground. A non-slip floor is essential, as are walk-in closets. Motion-activated lights are an element that averts accidents by seniors who get out of bed frequently during the night. Among the favorite elements our contractor provided for us is a first-level primary suite along with windows that are simple to open and clean.

For those people living at home who have severe medical issues, houses can be equipped with indoor and outdoor ramps. Other options are porch or stair lifts and automatic push-button doors. Meanwhile, to accommodate wheeled devices, well-lit and wider hallways and doorways are recommended. In some instances, elevators or chair lifts may be needed.

Of course, as you have been reading this article, the question that is doubtlessly on your mind is: how much are these home modifications likely to cost? The simple answer is that small changes can cost less than a bag of groceries, while large-scale projects may mean postponing that Tesla truck for a while. Obviously, the costs of aging in place can range greatly, depending on the types of modifications you need to make as well as your geographic location. Here is a list of estimates provided by Fixr

• motion-sensor light: $20

• grab bars:$90 to $300

• open shelves: $400 to $600

• wider doors: $300 to $2,500

• wider hallways: $800 to $1,400

• ramps: $1,400 to $3,000

• curbless shower: $2,500 to $9,000

• walk-in tub: $3,000 to $25,000

• stairlift: $4,000 to $8,000

Some modifications may be partially tax deductible. Overall, aging-in-place remodels can have a positive impact on home value, especially when they involve a fresh, modern look—one that appeals to people of retirement age and their younger visitors.

How to Save on Energy Costs How to Save on Energy Costs

By Thomas P. Caldwell

There are numerous reasons to seek energy savings, ranging from a desire to save money to concerns about the environment. They include objections to drafts in older homes and wasteful energy use in newer ones.

Saving energy does not mean sacrificing comfort. Better insulation and more efficient heating systems can make a home even more comfortable and lead to greater enjoyment of the time spent there.

Installing solar panels or heat pumps can reduce heating and cooling expenditures over time, but they require expert installation and up-front expenditures. There are many other steps people can take on their own, with affordable technological advances making it easier to conserve electricity and other fuels, reduce utility bills, and have less of an environmental impact.

The US Environmental Protection Agency administers a program known as Energy Star that promotes cost-saving energy solutions and rates products for efficiency. It also offers tips to renters and homeowners on steps they can take to save energy at home.

One of the simplest things to do is to turn off lights and appliances when they are not needed. For even greater savings, replace light fixtures and bulbs with Energy Star-certified lights. LED light bulbs use as much as 90 percent less energy than standard incandescent lighting while lasting 15 times longer, yet they provide the same amount of light. They may be a little more expensive than standard lights, but their reduced energy requirements and longer life more than make up for the higher cost.

Those with televisions, Blu-Ray players, and other equipment that remains on standby are using “phantom energy” — small amounts of power they require even when turned off. The US Department of Energy says standby energy accounts for 5 to 10 percent of residential energy use. Using a power strip for TVs, computers, and peripheral equipment provides an easy way to completely disconnect power from the devices, eliminating standby power consumption. Smart power strips can turn off appliances at an assigned time or based on the status of a master device.

Speaking of “smart “devices, smart thermostats can help reduce heating and cooling energy use without upgrading your heating and cooling systems. Smart thermostats can automatically turn off or reduce heating and cooling while you are asleep or away and can fit your weekly schedule. Energy Star says a smart thermostat can save 8 percent on typical heating and cooling bills. Even without a smart thermostat, you can choose a programmable thermostat to set time and temperature according to when you are around.

Note that when adjusting thermostats, reducing heat by more than five degrees can lead to higher fuel consumption because the furnace has to catch up when it is time to switch back to a higher temperature. Unless you will be away for more than a day or two, setting the temperature back too much will end up costing more.

Annual furnace cleanings can keep your boiler performing at peak efficiency. Hot water is another energy consumer. Hot water heating accounts for about

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90 percent of the energy a washing machine uses. The washer’s motor consumes only 10 percent of the energy. For that reason, using cold-water laundry detergent and washing at low-temperature settings can greatly reduce energy use — and extend the life of the clothes, as well.

Washing full loads, rather than partial loads, also can save more than 3,400 gallons of water each year.

Another way to reduce energy consumption is to do some of your household tasks manually. Hanging your clothes to dry conserves the energy your clothes dryer would be using. Because heating and cooling costs typically impact utility bills the most, reductions in the frequency of activities that are heat-intensive can offer significant savings.

If using a dryer, be sure to clean the lint trap — not only to prevent a fire but also because dryers work by moving heated air through wet clothes, evaporating and then venting water vapor outside. If the dryer cannot provide enough heat or move air sufficiently through the clothes, they will take longer to dry and may not dry at all.

Taking a ten-minute shower uses less water than a full bath, and installing a low-flow shower head will reduce water consumption even more while also saving energy by requiring less hot water.

Doing dishes by hand is another water-saving measure, but even those using a dishwasher can save water by scraping dishes instead of rinsing them before loading them into the dishwasher. To make the most efficient use of your dishwasher, run it only when you have accumulated enough dirty dishes for a full load.

Energy monitors can show where most of your electricity is going and which appliances use the most elec-

tricity daily.

When it comes to heating the home, make sure all of the air registers are clear of furniture so air can circulate freely. For homes with radiators, the placement of heat-resistant reflectors between radiators and walls can focus the heat into the room instead of the wall.

According to the Department of Energy, heat gain and loss through windows accounts for 25 to 30 percent of most homes’ heating and cooling energy. Getting an energy audit can identify areas where energy is wasted and allow you to create a priority list for energy improvements.

Replacing single-pane windows with double-pane products helps to prevent heat loss through windows, and “low-e” storm windows provide extra insulation to reduce heating costs. A low-cost “Yankee” alternative is to place plastic over the outside of windows to create a “building envelope” between the inside and outside air, forming a barrier to weather, air, and moisture.

The most common sources of air leaks into your home are vents, windows, and doors. Ensure there are no cracks or openings between the wall and vent, window, or doorframe. Applying caulk between the wall and window frame and weather stripping for cracks around windows and doors will provide a great return on investment.

Having an insulated attic is another area where weatherization can make a huge difference. The level of insulation depends on the area of the house, so the attic, walls, floors, basement, and crawlspace are the five main areas to consider adding insulation.

How to Start Your Own Book Club

C.S. Lewis is credited with saying, “We read to know we are not alone.”

Though reading is often a solitary activity, sharing and discussing books can serve as an even greater reminder that we are not alone. For those who say they do not love to read, they probably just haven’t found the right book yet. One way to be exposed to different literary styles and authors is to be part of a book club. Readers might actually want to start their own club.

A book club can include your friend group or it can pull relative strangers together. By reading with others on a deadline, you may be more likely to stick with reading and retain more of what you’ve read. Here are some simple ways to start a book club of your own.

• Start small. If you’re inexperienced, it is best to begin small when setting up the book club. Privately reach out to a few different people who you know enjoy books and see if they would be interested. Ask them to invite a few other people to help the club grow.

• Stay organized. Digital tools can help book club organizers stay on top of things and inform the club. Many clubs utilize social media platforms like Facebook Groups. “Bookclubs” is an application designed especially for book clubs. Make an account to organize your book club, receive book recommendations and view discussion guides.

• Identify your intentions. The motivation behind a book club is to read, but you might want to narrow that even further. Perhaps you want to make new friends? Or maybe you want to explore a certain literary genre exclusively? Create a book club business plan of sorts

where you fully express your intentions for the club.

• Choose the vibe and meeting style. Some book clubs are rigid with a set schedule and firm deadlines. Others are more relaxed with meetings being shuffled around to accommodate everyone’s lives. Create a game plan of where you will meet, how often you meet and how books and discussion points will be selected.

• Select your first book: Look to Goodreads, Amazon reviews, and other book-related resources to find a popular book. Various celebrities also have their own book club recommendations, so that may be a safe place to start.

• Opt for a slow weeknight for meetings. People tend to be busy on the weekend with other social engagements, so book clubs may be best hosted on a Monday or Tuesday evening. When establishing the book club, poll potential attendees to see what the majority want. Try to be consistent with the meeting day and time to keep the book club rolling along.

• Prepare discussion questions. It’s easy for a book club meeting to veer away from the book or for there to be a lull in conversation unless it is guided along. A discussion question list will help keep people chatting about what’s important: the book.

• Be open about costs. Some book clubs are free and others require a fee to join to help pay for meeting spaces or refreshments. Be upfront about how costs will be absorbed.

Book clubs are entertaining ways to bring literary lovers together to expand their enjoyment of reading. ~ Metro

Necklace by Aubri Keating

Tips to Make a Home Less Vulnerable to Criminals

Property crimes are perhaps more common than people may realize. Data from the Council on Criminal Justice indicates residential burglaries declined by 26 percent in 2023 compared to 2019. However, the Federal Bureau of Investigation indicates there were nearly seven million property-related crimes committed in 2019, which means there were still more than five million such crimes committed in 2023.

Homeowners recognize the importance of protecting themselves, their loved ones and their valuables. Locking doors at night is one measure of protection anyone can employ, but there’s a host of additional steps individuals can take to make their homes less vulnerable to criminals.

• Embrace some simple solutions. The Insurance Information Institute recommends utilizing simple security devices such as padlocks, door and window locks, grates, bars, and bolts. These devices may not prevent burglars from entering a home, but they can increase the amount of time it takes criminals to gain access. That can be enough to discourage criminals and also provide extra time for homeowners and neighbors to see and report suspicious individuals lurking around homes.

• Periodically assess existing security devices. Locks, security cameras and additional devices are effective deterrents, but only if they’re working properly. It’s easy to overlook security devices, but routine inspections can ensure they continue to serve as a security blanket between residents and criminals.

• Install a burglar alarm. Burglar alarms can be effective deterrents and even help homeowners save money on their insurance policies. The Electronic Security Association estimates that home alarm systems can save homeowners as much as 20 percent on their insurance policies. Such savings can offset the cost to purchase and install burglar alarms. Homeowners who doubt the efficacy of burglar alarms as a crime deterrent should know that a study from researchers at the University of North Carolina examining the habits of burglars found that 60 percent decided against burglarizing properties they learned had burglar alarms.

• Trim privacy trees and shrubs around the perimeter of your home. Privacy trees and shrubs can make it harder for passersby to see into a home from a nearby street or sidewalk. However, such features also can provide hiding space for criminals looking to gain access to a property. Routinely trim trees and shrubs near doors and windows so they are not inadvertently providing cover for criminals.

• Light up the outside. Exterior lighting is wildly popular among homeowners for its aesthetic appeal. But lights around walkways and throughout a landscape also illuminate the exterior of a home, making it harder for criminals to get around without being seen. Spotlights and motion-detection lights can alert homeowners if someone is outside, and such lighting can also make it easier to spot criminals on exterior cameras, which can deter burglars. ~ Metro

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How to Create a Studio of Your Own

“To create one’s own world in any of the arts takes courage.”—Georgia O’Keefe

The words of painter Georgia O’Keefe speak of creating things with courage and that there was a space in the world where a canvas was painted, clay became a sculpture, or a loom became a weaver’s paradise.

In other words, no matter what we do to create, we must do it somewhere. That “somewhere” can be a corner of the living room, a dining room table or a countertop. When the projects we pursue begin to take over the house and there just isn’t peace and quiet to create, we wonder if an art studio would be helpful.

But where to design a studio and how to make it a place where we can stash our supplies and books but also dive in and create our art and craft work?

Margery moved to Alton with her husband, Bob Mueller while it is a comfortable home, it did not have an art

Artist Margery Thomas-Mueller of Alton, New Hampshire pondered these questions when she realized it was time to build a studio where she could go each day to get serious about painting. Retired from a life running an interior design business in New York City for many years, Margery moved to Alton with her husband, Bob Mueller in 2011. They reside in a home Bob already owned and while it is a comfortable home, it did not have an art studio.

Margery wanted to pursue painting full-time and knew she was at a place in her life where she needed to turn the dream into reality. “I wanted to paint full time and the barn space offered the chance to create a studio where top. When the projects we pursue begin to take over the

gested he make the barn two stories so I could have an

“Bob was thinking about buying land to build a barn where he could have storage space for his vehicles. I suggested he make the barn two stories so I could have an art studio upstairs,” Margery recalls.

Story & Photos by Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

I could go every day to explore artwork.”

The barn took about 1 1/2 years to build. First, the couple looked for land and found a perfect spot about two miles from their home. Margery speaks glowingly of the architect they hired for the job, a friend from New York City. She had worked with him on many projects when was running her interior design business and thus trusted his work.

There were considerations to deal with, such as meeting criteria` for residential zoning. This meant a structure with a bathroom, a bedroom and kitchen. The downstairs space would serve as a place to store vehicles and an area where Bob and his fellow antique boat enthusiast friends could get together and talk boats and cars.

Upstairs became what could serve as an apartment with kitchen area, living space and bedrooms and bathroom. It is in this place that Margery has turned the rooms into an art studio where she goes daily to paint, or as she refers to her career as an artist, to “work.”

The space has been carefully designed and is filled with light. It is a wonderful, welcoming place where one cannot help but feel cheerful. Books line shelves and easy chairs invite one to sit and indulge in hours spent reading.

In the open studio space where Margery paints floor-toceiling-high work on a special smooth paper called Yupo, creativity is everywhere. One can see the thought that went into the design of the room, with lots of places for tables laden with paintbrushes, a large worktable, chairs and of course, the walls which serve as giant easels.

“The space allowed me to go big with my paintings,” Margery says. The barn/studio is set in the country in a fairly quiet area and Margery said it took her about a year to get used to her new career and to be focused. “I now work in the studio about five or six hours a day.”

When Margery had a studio visit from Patricia Ladd Carega (the owner of Patricia Ladd Carega Gallery in Sandwich, New Hampshire), having a work space to show her paintings

AND TILE

Artist Margery Thomas-Mueller in her Alton, NH studio.

was helpful. This allowed Patricia to view Margery’s large paintings on an ample wall space versus having to bring them to the Sandwich Gallery.

When planning the studio, the architect wanted to give Margery lots of storage space, but at the time she was focused rather on having a lot of wall space. Smiling as she explains, “I didn’t know I would go so big with my painting some time ago, but when I did I knew I needed a big space to paint.”

Because the paintings are so large, Margery makes use of a ladder to reach all parts of her work. This has come in very handy versus trying to find another way to paint the large surface of each work. The big wall area also allows her to hang three or more paintings at once so she can view everything as she works. “I use that ladder a lot when I am painting,” she adds.

Another big component when creating a studio is to consider lighting. Margery’s work room has large hanging lantern lights and at first, they did not have strong enough bulbs to throw out the amount of light she needed. The architect solved the problem by using LED lights.

Margery, like many artists and creative people, is a reader and a lover of books. She made sure there were bookshelves and says with a shake of her head, “I could always use more space for all my books!”

She admits that she now can see she did not plan for enough storage and workspace. For example, the extremely large rolls of Yupo paper the artist uses take up a lot of space. She uses a number of inks and watercolors and they too, need space, as does her big collection of paintbrushes in all sizes.

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Margery suggests those planning a studio think of these things: 1. Having good light; 2. The scale of your work and how much space you realistically require; 3. Your physical comfort, with a place for an easy chair, sofa or other seating, and finally, making enough room to create a place you want to spend time and be comfortable.

With a beautiful studio, Margery loves “going to work” every day and spends up to six hours daily painting. The country setting is private and quiet and allows for work plus relaxation and contemplation. “I love the studio I have,” she says. “I have no plans to alter it and I hope to keep making more work in this great place.” To see the work of Margery Thomas-Mueller, visit www.margerythomasmueller.net.

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How to Prepare for Winter Storms

Winter arrives with fanfare as Christmas, Chanukah and New Year’s Eve all take place within the first days of the season. Parties and shopping may distract people from the weather around them, but after resolutions are made and the decorations are packed away, it’s not long before it’s time to confront winter’s wrath.

Storms are commonplace in January and February, and even March storms are not unheard of. Knowing how to prepare for storms can keep people safer and prevent home damage. If a storm is forecasted, follow these guidelines.

• Charge a mobile phone and other electronic devices to full battery in advance of the storm in case power goes out.

• Stock the home with extra batteries for flashlights and battery-powered devices, such as a portable radio.

• Invest in a car charger to charge devices if the power is out for some time.

• Keep a supply of canned or boxed nonperishable items, as well as convenience foods that do not need to be cooked, like granola bars.

• Periodically check to ensure that the first aid kit is stocked with items that have not expired.

• Refill medications so that they are on hand in the event weather makes it challenging to get to the store.

• Keep emergency supplies of bottled water. If you for-

get this, fill the bathtub up with fresh water. Extra water will be needed for toilet flushing if yours is a septic system.

• Have warm blankets on hand and sleeping bags for each person in the home.

• Unplug all electronic devices if the power goes out to protect against a surge and damage when the power is restored.

• Exercise caution when burning candles, opting for flashlights and lanterns instead.

• If it’s very cold outside, move refrigerated and frozen items outdoors so they do not spoil in an unpowered refrigerator.

• Do not use gas stoves, charcoal grills or other openflame heat sources for warmth indoors. Carbon monoxide gas can build up inside and prove deadly.

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a backup generator for power.

• Stock up on gasoline for vehicles and to power gas-driven generators.

• Use power company websites and apps to report outages and stay apprised of restoration status.

• Be cautious of downed power lines in the area when driving or walking.

Winter storms can be beautiful but dangerous without ample preparation. ~ Metro

Cold Weather Home Projects to Brighten Up Your Home

By Mike Moore

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Asthe snowy season arrives in the Lakes region, there are few better places to get outside and enjoy a variety of winter activities. Despite all the fun to be had, frigid temperatures will inevitably force us to stay indoors more often. Instead of considering yourself stuck indoors, consider it a golden opportunity to turn your attention to some of those home improvement projects inside the house that often get neglected during the warmer months. Giving the living room a fresh coat of paint, retiling or grouting the bathroom, or something as simple as adding a few area rugs throughout can keep you busy with a few projects to pass the time and also amplify your home’s appearance.

With so many home improvement project options in the summer, hardware stores are busy, often running out of products necessary to complete your DIY task. Contractors are booked out for months, and when one can make some time, the job will often be costlier given the increased demand for their services. During the winter, homeowners wanting to tackle a project on their own can count on less traffic at the hardware store and might even find an employee with a little more time on their hands to discuss ideas about your project. The snowy weather puts a lot of limitations on what carpenters, electricians, and painters can do for work, giving a homeowner looking to hire someone for a job a quicker response time and possibly even a better price than during the summer months. As a bonus, the dread of scheduling conflicts and weather delays that always seem to interfere during the summer months won’t be an issue with an indoor project over the winter.

Keep your home cozy and warm. Save some money,

too.

New England homes have such historic charm, but during the wintertime, it can be a challenge to stay warm in many of the big, drafty farmhouses. Adding or replacing insulation in the walls, crawl spaces, and attic can transition your living rooms from chilly to cozy while saving you money on energy bills as well. To help avoid freezing or bursting, insulate water pipes under sinks and in the basement. Though a more expensive approach, blown-in insulation is an even better option than traditional fiberglass. Several of the local energy providers can complete an in-home energy assessment and offer money-saving solutions. Tax benefits are a possibility with some of the recommended upgrades, providing you with another chance to save money.

Even the best of the DIYers leave some small gaps around window trim and entryways. The arctic freeze will sneak in through any vulnerable nook and cranny around windows and doors. Wintertime wind in New Hampshire will definitely show you where those spots are in your home pretty quickly. Simply sealing these vulnerable spots with caulking will prevent the frigid air from overworking your heating system.

Insulation and caulking can go a long way to cut down the cost of your energy bill, but neglecting the core components of your home’s heating system can also become quite expensive during colder stretches. Regularly servicing your heating unit can certainly make it last longer, but modern technology has allowed many to upgrade to energy-efficient, cost-saving options that might even pay for themselves after a few winters with decreased heating bills. Additionally, installing programable thermostats is

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affordable and makes a great DIY project. These thermostats can allow you to regulate temperatures with ease, allowing you another way to save money on heating your home.

Hardwood flooring can be beautiful, but those early January mornings can cause that beautiful hardwood to feel awfully cold. Adding area rugs can end that problem and also further insulate your house. For those with worndown carpeting, upgrading to a newer, plusher option can increase heating efficiency while also giving your home a fresh, new look.

Improving Your Home Aesthetic

During the busy summer months, home décor is not at the front of everyone’s mind. But when the treacherous weather has you housebound, there is no better time to spruce up the place. You’ll also get to instantly and frequently enjoy it since winters in the Northeast can sometimes stretch into March and April. Adding a fresh coat of paint or replacing the wallpaper are simple and low-cost ways to make an immediate and impactful improvement to your home’s ambiance. The local paint stores are likely to be better stocked with a variety of color options than in the busier seasons if you plan on completing it yourself. If having it done professionally, companies are in their slower season, so there’s potential to book some of those highly regarded businesses that usually don’t have any avail-

ability in the summer or charge an extra premium for their services. Retiling the bathroom can be a lengthier task, taking up valuable time that could be spent outside during those warmer days. Taking on this project while those days are still months away can help pass the time and provide your bathroom with an invigorated look. If the tiling is in good shape, take the opportunity to regrout the areas that need it. Upgrading the faucets may help lower your water bill. The process is easy to complete on your own and a variety of choices are available locally. Replacing the mirrors or vanity could be a great way to improve your bathroom and also help increase the value of your home. During the holiday season, many families spend more time in the kitchen, so why not make it look great. There are so many small projects that could improve your kitchen’s aesthetic. A simple and affordable kitchen upgrade is replacing the handles and knobs on cabinets and doors. If you want to make a more significant upgrade, consider refacing the cabinets to change up the color scheme or theme of your kitchen. There is no better time than the holidays to increase counter space for prepping all the treats and meals by adding an island. You might even be able to find a local craftsman to create a customized version that is perfect for your kitchen. Another helpful improvement project to consider is adding a backsplash around the sink

The

area. This task won’t take up too much of your time, and the cooler air during the winter months will help the backsplash glue dry and adhere to the wall more rapidly. Feel like taking on a larger project? Countertops and flooring can be especially nicked up in the kitchen. Advancements in technology has improved the quality and efficiency of the material and tools used in either of these kitchen upgrades, allowing contractors to perform high-quality work despite the lower temperatures. For those looking to replace their flooring, wintertime is a great time to make this improvement. Hardwood flooring actually benefits from being installed during colder temperatures. When installed during the summer, when the temperatures are the hottest, the wood has expanded, often shrinking during the winter, creating gaps. This pesky problem is avoided when the flooring is laid over the winter season. Depending on the weight of the countertops in your kitchen, this job may be completed more effectively if taken on with a helping hand or even by a hired professional.

For those people looking to add a little style and décor to their home, many of the White Mountains and Lakes Region gift and souvenir shops remain open throughout the winter months, and the decreased influx of tourists will give you more options to find great artwork to hang on those freshly painted walls. Some shops have so much to offer that you could redecorate entire rooms throughout your house. If a blizzard has everyone staying inside for days, enlist the family to help rearrange furniture, redesign a spare room into a game room or office, or even finish off the basement. Making improvements to basements or attics are projects that can be worked on over time and once completed, will give you more space and increase your home’s value.

Move up Spring Cleaning on Your Schedule

Springtime is better when spent outside enjoying the sunshine and warm weather, not stuck inside the house decluttering and fixing up all the little things around the house that are easy to neglect. Turning spring cleaning into winter cleaning allows you to occupy your time during those days late in the winter season when mother nature hasn’t quite eased up and everyone is ready for winter to be over. A great place to start the cleaning process is to go through closets and cabinets to get rid of any items that are no longer needed. The months after the holiday season are a perfect time to donate to charitable organizations.

A thorough house cleaning doesn’t just involve washing windows and dusting the hard-to-reach places. Houses with HVAC systems can benefit from replacing the air filters, especially with the extra work they are put through during the cold weather. A chimney sweep can not only

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improve your home’s safety if the fireplace is used frequently but can improve the air quality as well. Many of these companies will also provide dryer vent cleaning services, which helps make the dryer run more efficiently. If you are cleaning out behind large appliances, don’t forget to vacuum around the coils on the refrigerator. For stoves, removing the built-up grease can help prevent a fire hazard. Places that aren’t thought of as much when cleaning are the ceiling fans, tops of bookcases, and windowsills. The dust builds up in these spots and can decrease the air quality, which is important to avoid illness during the months when the windows are closed and the heat is running.

In addition to getting the annual deep clean finished, take the opportunity to replace light bulbs and batteries throughout the house. If you’re dusting off the tool belt for the first time in a few months, cross off a few of the items on your minor maintenance list like fixing ceiling fans, appliances, or furniture. Finally, take on the more tedious tasks like fixing those loose trim boards, replacing the railing on the basement stairs, or upgrading your window treatments.

Making the Most of Your Time Indoors

Whether you are just looking to pass the time and avoid the blues until spring, or you want to stay active and motivated on the home improvement front, there are a multitude of tasks, both small and large that you can accomplish throughout the winter. If you are going to have to spend significant time confined indoors, why not take every opportunity to brighten up your surroundings and have all your friends wanting to spend more time at your house enjoying the improved ambiance?

How Seniors Can Diversify Their Workouts

Diverse workout routines can help people overcome the boredom and lack of motivation that can develop when regimens feature little variety. Adults often lament a lack of time to incorporate exercise into their daily routines. Such difficulties are not exaggerated, as the demands of work and family, particularly for parents of young children with busy schedules of their own, can leave little time for daily workouts. Hectic schedules typically do not prevent older adults and seniors from exercising, but aging men and women may still confront some challenges as they aspire to be as physically active as possible.

Boredom with an exercise routine can adversely affect individuals’ motivation to be physically active. When that happens, even individuals with ample time to exercise, such as empty nesters and seniors, may find it increasingly difficult to go to the gym or work out at home. In such situations, the more diverse a workout routine is, the less monotonous it can feel, and that lack of monotony can be enough to keep individuals up and moving. With that in mind, the following suggestions can help individuals diversify their workout routines so they remain engaged with physical activity.

• Make use of the seasons. Exercise boredom can develop at any time of year, but disinterest in a workout routine might be especially likely when diversifying a regimen becomes more difficult. For example, the colder temperatures of winter can force individuals to do most, if not all, of their exercising indoors, which can grow monotonous over time. If exercising outdoors in winter is a nonstarter, then individuals can emphasize outdoor workouts throughout the

rest of the year when the weather is more amenable. Incorporate hiking into your weekly routine in spring, summer and fall, and replace typical cardiovascular workouts on a treadmill or elliptical with bike rides when the weather allows. Individuals also can invest in gear to keep them warm so they can get outside to exercise after the mercury drops.

• Skip the circuit workouts for more specialized regimens. Circuit workouts can be great for busy individuals without much time to exercise each week. Such workouts target various muscle groups in quick succession, which allows individuals to work out every muscle group, even during weeks when time is limited. However, circuit workouts can be monotonous for people who have the time to exercise each day. In such situations, individuals can specialize their workouts so they target a different muscle group during each session. Doing so can diversify a workout to reduce boredom and may even decrease the risk of repetitive use injuries.

• Embrace new ways to exercise. A gym with all the familiar weights, machines and cardiovascular equipment might be the first thing people think of when pondering exercise. And while gym memberships can motivate people to exercise, traditional fitness facilities are not the only places to break a sweat and be physically active. If a diverse workout regimen is your goal, consider incorporating yoga, Pilates and other less traditional forms of exercise into your routine. Many fitness facilities even offer such classes, and local communities may also feature standalone yoga studios or other establishments offering specific exercises.

Choosing The Right Snow Blower

Shoveling driveways and walkways may be “good for the soul,” as one of our neighbors once said, but it can be a lot of work, especially when heavy, wet snow has fallen. A snow blower can make it a lot less back-breaking, but how do you know which snowblower to buy?

By Thomas P. Caldwell

The first consideration is the size of the area you need to clear. If someone plows the driveway and you only need to clear a path to the house, a powered snow scoop, available for less than $100, may do the job. Longer paths may take more expensive versions of the snow scoop or something more heavy-duty. Snow blowers come in single, two, or three stages and can range from $150 to well over $3,000. Single-stage blowers can clear a narrow path but are best confined to paved walkways. Two- or three-stage blowers are able to clear wider swaths, so they are better for larger areas where you clear more snow with each pass.

Single-stage snow blowers are also best for storms dropping only a few inches of snow. They have an impeller to force snow through the discharge chute, and most models will throw snow up to 25 feet, but they only work well on snow depths of less than nine inches.

A two-stage blower has an auger as well as an impeller and works great on paved surfaces, making it ideal for those needing to clear both driveway and access paths to the house. Unpaved areas, however, create special problems. We have a gravel driveway and found that the resistance from small rocks led to frequent shearing of the pins that protect the engine

and transmission by breaking if the auger hits something too hard. If running a two-stage snow blower over gravel, you will need to keep extra shear pins on hand.

Choosing a three-stage snow blower is a better choice when looking for a machine that can efficiently handle larger amounts of snow or snowfall that is wet and dense. A three-stage snow blower is a heavy-duty machine that can maneuver over tough terrain. It also can remove ice should there be a harsh winter with heavy snowfall and bitter temperatures. While both two-stage and three-stage snow blowers have augers to gather snow and impellers to blow it out, a three-stage blower has a larger engine and an accelerator, which helps force the collected snow from the auger to the impeller, meaning that it can provide a greater tossing distance. Of course, that comes with a higher price.

That brings us to the matter of your budget. When thinking of snow blowers, it is important to consider what you can afford and how best to meet your needs so you don’t find yourself stranded at home when a storm arrives. Sometimes it is best to hire someone who can handle the plowing and clearing of the paths. There are many companies that offer services that extend beyond winter to year-round yard maintenance.

If you decide to purchase a snow blower, there are other choices to make. Traditionally, snow blowers have come with gasoline engines, most of which have an electric start to make it easier than using a pull cord in cold weather.

Electric models, of course, have no need for pull cords. Corded electric models with a long extension cord can meet the needs if the area to be cleared is not too far from

the house. A plug-in electric snow blower also works well for clearing a deck or patio or other areas that bigger snow blowers would have trouble accessing.

With environmental concerns growing, a series of battery-powered electric models has emerged. Again, twostage models tend to be more effective than single-stage units.

Another consideration is whether the snow blower comes with wheels or tracks. Most models have wheels, but some two- and three-stage snow blowers have tracks in place of wheels. Airless tires are maintenance-free and will not go flat, unlike pneumatic tires. Tracked models boost the snow blower’s traction, making it more suitable for clearing snow on hills and steep driveways. The drawback is that they tend to be more difficult to turn on level terrain.

When considering the model choices, keep in mind that features like self-propelled drive systems can make the snow blower easier to handle. There also are models with joystick chute controls and heated hand grips. Remember that machines require maintenance, and it is a good idea to keep spare belts, which are critical components of the blower. Single-stage machines rely on one belt, and two-stage models require two.

Since they are used for only a few months of the year, gasoline sits in the tank while the snow blower remains idle over the summer, which allows fuel lines to become clogged as the gasoline breaks down and thickens. Adding a stabilizer to the fuel can slow down that process.

Stores that sell snow blowers can help with the decision-making, and many local businesses can provide expertise and service for your model.

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A Homeowners’ Guide to Ice Dams

Cold weather contributes to many different conditions that can affect homes. When winds are blowing fiercely, homeowners may soon discover deficits in insulation or in caulking around windows and doors. Icy conditions can cause walkways and stairs to become slick.

One winter condition can cause extensive headaches and damage and could be a mystery to many homeowners. Ice dams occur when warm air in the attic heats up the roof and melts accumulated snow. Water from this melt runs down the roof and refreezes when it reaches the colder roof edge. A mound of ice forms at the lower edge of the roofline as a result.

1. The presence of snow on the roof.

2. An average outdoor temperature that is 32 F or lower.

3. A roof surface temperature above 32 F at its higher points and below 32 F at the lower end.

4. Indoor heat making its way to the underside of the roof.

Ice dams may help create a picturesque winter vista, with icicles hanging and glinting in the sunlight, but they can cause significant damage. According to experts, ice dams can weigh hundreds of pounds if they get large enough, potentially affecting the structural integrity of roof eaves. In addition, ice dams can cause melted runoff to back up under roof shingles. This water can eventually make its way inside, ruining ceilings and walls. The roof, gutters, insulation, interior drywall, and other home surfaces can be damaged if ice dams are left unchecked.

The following are some conditions that make a home vulnerable to ice dam formation:

Homeowners should take a few steps to address ice dams. The first is preventing future ice dams from forming. According to First American Roofing and Siding, LLC, improving insulation in the ceiling below the attic and addressing any inefficiencies in the home is necessary. A professional can do a blower door test, which works by depressurizing the home and using a thermal camera to find areas where insulation is poor. In addition, adequate ventilation under the roof deck is necessary so cold air can circulate and prevent the attic from getting so warm that it will melt the snow on the roof.

The next step is to remove excess snow from the roof with a roof rake and keep gutters clear. If ice dams have already formed, hire a professional to remove them, as it can be dangerous to do it oneself.

Snow-covered roofs and landscapes can be beautiful but also dangerous if conditions that cause ice dams to form are not addressed. ~ Metro

Gas Fireplace Safety Tips

Few images capture the spirit of a season as well as a family gathered around a fireplace embodies winter. Winter is indeed a time when families spend more time together indoors, and there’s no better gathering spot than around a warm fireplace.

Heartwarming scenes around a fireplace are even more enjoyable when safety has been prioritized. While natural fireplaces with roaring flames are notable safety risks, it’s important that individuals with gas fireplaces embrace fire safety as well. The following are some gas fireplace safety strategies everyone can embrace.

• Avoid the DIY installation route. Even the most skilled do-it-yourselfers are urged to let the professionals install a new gas fireplace. Gas lines are nothing to mess around with, and professional installation teams have ample experience setting up new gas fireplaces in a home.

• Be sure to install a carbon monoxide detector on the same floor as the fireplace. During the gas fireplace installation, ask that a carbon monoxide detector with battery backup be installed on the same floor. The detector alarm will alert individuals if something is amiss, like a gas leak. Periodically inspect the detector to ensure it’s working properly.

• Periodically inspect your safety screen. Glass panels are standard features on many gas fireplaces. Such panels separate the fire within the fireplace from the people and items outside of it. Glass panels can become extremely hot, which is why most gas fireplaces come with safety screens as well. These mesh safety screens can keep curious kids and pets from touching hot glass panels and also protect adults. Inspect the safety screens

periodically to ensure they’re still intact and up to the job, replacing them if necessary.

• Keep objects a safe distance away from the fireplace. Experts advise keeping objects a minimum of three feet away from the fireplace at all times. Fabrics and other materials that come into contact with the glass pose a fire hazard, so keep the area in front of the fireplace clear.

• Make the fireplace off-limits to children and pets. Though the aforementioned safety screens are a vital safety feature that can keep kids and pets safe, it’s still best that kids and pets are kept away from the fireplace at all times. Turn off the fireplace if kids are playing in the room and use safety gates to keep kids and pets away when the fireplace is in use.

• Book annual fireplace inspections. Annual inspections of the fireplace can ensure everything is working properly. Professional inspections may detect potentially harmful gas leaks, and annual checkups can also help individuals extend the life of their fireplaces.

• Recognize outdoor gas fireplaces have their own safety protocols. Outdoor fireplaces have become wildly popular in recent years. Homeowners who install outdoor gas fireplaces on their properties must recognize these awe-inspiring features require their own unique safety measures, including turning off the gas supply at the end of the outdoor entertaining season and protecting the fireplace from the elements when necessary.

Gas fireplace safety strategies can protect residents and also increase the life expectancy of these sought-after features. ~ Metro

Tips for selling your Home during The Winter!

Selling your home during the winter months can be a great opportunity with the right approach. Keep decor simple, highlight cozy features like fireplaces, and ensure curb appeal even in winter. Price competitively to attract serious buyers and be flexible with showing times. Partnering with experienced Realtors® is key— family-owned since 1992, we've completed over 10,000 transactions throughout New Hampshire and are committed to making your experience smooth and rewarding. Let us guide you to a successful winter sale!

Our Local Real Estate Market

New Septic System Regulations for NH Waterfront Properties:

• Expanded Definition: "Developed waterfront" now includes properties with structures within 250' of water bodies.

• Mandatory Evaluations: Buyers must hire licensed evaluators to assess septic systems on properties within 250' of water before ownership transfer.

• If a system is failing, it must be repaired or replaced within 180 days.

The new law extends the "developed waterfront" definition to 250' from the waterline. Sellers are no longer responsible for a site assessment study If the septic system is outdated or failing, it must be repaired or replaced within 180 days of transfer.

Buyers of waterfront properties within 250' of a waterline must hire a licensed septic evaluator. If the system fails or is outdated, it will need to repaired or replace it within 180 days. You can rely on a recent (180days) seller-provided assessment.

New Hampshire Market Update

Fun Ways to Enjoy the Start of Winter

Winter began on December 21, 2024, and ends on March 20, 2025. Many people lament the arrival of winter, perhaps thinking the colder temperatures and shorter hours of sunlight will compromise their chances of having fun. Even though particularly chilly thermostat readings or stormy conditions can hamper some plans, when people dig deeper, they may find that even the coldest days present opportunities for enjoyment.

When winter begins, the following activities can make for an entertaining way to celebrate the arrival of the season.

• Build a snow creation. Use the first significant snowfall of the season to organize a snowman, snowwoman, or snow-animal-making event or contest. Waterproof gloves are a necessary piece of equipment, as are buckets for moving snow, shovels, carving and shaping tools (which can be plastic cutlery), and accessories to dress up the final product.

• Go sledding on the best hills. Sledding is a popular wintertime activity that doesn’t require too much equipment. Sleds can be purchased at sporting goods stores or toy stores. Sledders of all ages should consider wearing helmets to protect against injury if they will be traversing especially steep hills.

• Host a winter block party. Many cities and towns across North America participate in WinterFest events, which run the gamut from food and craft festivals to

sporting events. Individuals can take cues from these types of activities and plan neighborhood festivals right on their streets. Neighbors can wheel out their fire pits or utilize outdoor propane heaters to keep spots cozy. Hot cocoa and cider stations and warm treats can keep everyone from feeling too cold. Electric slow cookers can keep everything from soups to chilis to stews warm and participants can enjoy a buffet of hearty foods.

• Visit an ice rink. Whether a rink is indoors or outside, ice skating is a quintessential wintertime activity. Skaters of all skill levels can take to the ice and enjoy some exercise and laughs. Check local rink schedules to take advantage of open skate times when hockey games or practices are not dominating the ice.

• Mark the winter solstice. The winter solstice, also known as the start of astronomical winter, is the shortest day of sunlight on the calendar. It occurs when either of the Earth’s poles reaches maximum tilt away from the sun. In the Northern Hemisphere, this occurs on December 21, 2024. Because there will be only roughly seven hours of daylight, take steps to make the fact that the sun will set at its earliest a little easier to swallow. Kids can run around outdoors with glow sticks, while adults can deck their homes in twinkle lights if they are not decorated for Christmas. Lanterns, campfires and candles can be lit, and everyone can gather outdoors to chat and socialize.

Avoid Being a Statistic

by Mark Okrant

While the forecast for this winter in New Hampshire calls for warmer-than-normal temperatures, we all know that there will be some rough weather ahead. Throughout the winter, most of us prefer staying indoors, awaiting the arrival of warmer weather. We tend to overuse our home heating systems to keep ourselves warm during the cold season, thereby increasing the risk of hazards. The

longer people spend inside their homes, the higher the likelihood of a house fire occurring. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), there are more than 360 thousand incidents of home structure fires each year. These cause damages of about $6-8 billion dollars. In an effort to better understand the principal hazards and steps to avoid them, we interviewed Stacy Dubois,

Deputy State Fire Marshal in the Bureau of Outreach and Education. Dubois told us that the three leading causes of fire in the home are cooking, heating, and the lack of properly functioning smoke alarms. In New Hampshire alone there is an average of 450 fires from home heating per year. Why so many and what can be done to prevent them?

New Hampshire State Fire Marshal Sean Toomey advises that homeowners and renters should “keep anything that is flammable at least three feet away from space heaters, fireplaces, wood stoves, and radiators.” Also, have a three-foot (one meter) “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters. It is a must that all heating equipment be used as intended. One of the biggest mistakes that people make is using their ovens and other cooking equipment for heating. When misused, these can create a fire danger or a carbon monoxide hazard.

A look at specific sources of household fires brings us to portable space heaters. Toomey and Dubois advise that the problem frequently begins at the point of purchase. In an effort to save a few dollars, people neglect to look for a testing laboratory’s label which ensures that the heater meets basic standards for use. Each space heater should have an automatic shut-off switch, so if tipped over, it will turn off automatically. Safety personnel strongly advise that portable electric heaters be plugged directly into wall outlets, thereby avoiding the temptation to use an extension cord or power strip. For kerosene heaters, always use the right kind of fuel specified by the manufacturer. For gas heaters—if you smell gas—never light the appliance. Leave the home immediately and call your local fire department or gas company.

44 N Main St , Box 675 Wolfeboro, NH

O (603) 569-0101

C (603) 455-9696

wolfeborocam@gmail com

Evenings are the peak time for home heating fires. Therefore, space heaters must be turned off before leaving the room for all but a few minutes of time. The best way to avoid potential problems is to have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.

The fire marshal’s office warns that chimney fires are a major concern, as there were more than 1,300 of these events over a five-year period in New Hampshire, accounting for more than one-half of heating fires during that period. Preventing many of those fires is a simple matter of having chimneys and vents inspected each year; also, all fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Be certain to burn your fire hot and with clean, dry wood in woodstoves and fireplaces to prevent creosote build-up in chimneys. You want to reach 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit to make sure the gases burn efficiently and completely. Be sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be allowed to cool before putting them in a metal container that is situated a safe distance away from your house.

Smoke and carbon monoxide hazards can be avoided. The homeowner must take the initiative to have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in the home. In the event of a fire or carbon monoxide situation, those alarms provide an alert that allows residents time to exit safely. Smoke alarms should be tested frequently.

As the purpose of this article is to examine causes of house fires, specifically during the winter season, let us focus on those occurring while most of us are spending

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time indoors.

Burning Candles: many of us light candles to mask stale odors, to create a particular ambiance, or as an element of holiday decorations. Unfortunately, thousands of candle fires are reported each year, with the majority occurring during December. Many of these are caused by people falling asleep while the candles still burn. In three of every five home fires, the cause was some flammable object placed too close to the candle. Both of these causes can be deadly but are easily avoided.

Cooking: according to the U.S. Fire Administration, this is the leading cause of home fire injuries all year round, including during winter when people tend to cook indoors more frequently. These can be prevented by never leaving hot appliances unattended while cooking, keeping flammable objects at a distance, and regularly cleaning your stove and oven. It goes without saying that

children and pets should be kept a safe distance from the stove.

Electrical Lighting – especially on Christmas trees: more than two-fifths of all Christmas tree fires can be avoided by careful installation of Christmas lights. Strings of lights with loose bulb connections, frayed wires, or any visible signs of wear must be replaced. Never overload your outlet or power strip, and always turn off your Christmas lights before leaving the house or heading off to bed. Note: LED lights can be used in larger quantities than incandescent ones as they consume less energy.

Christmas Trees: real trees have a higher risk of catching flame due to their needles drying out, while artificial trees produce more severe flames with dangerous chemicals and smoke. One hint is to water your real tree daily to prevent the needles from drying out, as dry trees are highly flammable. Also, keep heat sources such as radiators, space heaters, fireplaces, and heat vents at least three feet away from the tree, and ensure your tree does not block any exits.

Electrical Appliances like Dryers and washing machines: there are more incidents of dryer fires during the fall and winter. Homeowners often fail to clean lint from their dryers, which blocks the unit from releasing heat—a fuel for dangerous fires.

Finally, to increase the probability of escaping a house fire—should one occur—the State Fire Marshal strongly recommends that you devise an escape plan with two routes of escaping from all parts of your house, including each room.

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The Benefits of Home Security Cameras

Homeowners go to great lengths to make their properties comfortable places to call home. Whether it’s new interior furnishings, renovated outdoor living areas or the installation of various smart home technologies, there’s no shortage of ways to upgrade a home with comfort in mind.

When homeowners renovate a home in an effort to make spaces more relaxing and welcoming, it’s important they recognize the relationship between comfort and safety. A home is only as comfortable as it is safe, as residents might struggle to relax if they’re concerned about their safety. Security cameras can help quell such concerns, which is one of a handful of reasons homeowners should consider these increasingly popular safety features for their homes.

• Security cameras can help to deter criminals. Property crimes may not garner the same level of news coverage as violent crimes, but a recent report from the Federal Bureau of Investigation indicated that there were still nearly 900,000 burglary offenses in the United States in 2022. That figure represents a decline of more than 50 percent since 2012 when FBI data indicates more than 1.8 million such offenses were committed. A host of variables undoubtedly contributed to that decline, and the greater availability and increased affordability of security cameras has made it easier than ever for homeowners to make their homes less appealing to prospective burglars.

• Security cameras may help to lower insurance premiums. Exterior security cameras can help individuals lower the cost of their homeowners’ insurance policies. The ex-

tent of those savings may depend on the type of cameras homeowners install and whether or not the cameras are integrated into a whole-home security system. The Insurance Information Institute notes that whole home security systems can save homeowners anywhere from 2 to 15 percent on their homeowners insurance policies. More advanced systems, such as those that feature alarms and exterior cameras, can earn homeowners greater savings on their policies.

• Security cameras provide peace of mind while traveling. Modern security camera systems now provide remote access through smartphone apps. That can give homeowners peace of mind when traveling, as they can monitor their properties when they’re away from home and potentially alert local authorities if they notice anything suspicious on their remote feeds.

• Security cameras can give parents peace of mind. Much like security cameras help travelers keep an eye on their property while they’re away, parents also may find that access to real-time video footage of their homes can calm their nerves when children are in the house. Parents can utilize cameras to keep tabs on youngsters playing in the yard and monitor feeds to see what older kids are up to while Mom and Dad are at work or away from home for other reasons.

Home security cameras are a worthwhile investment that can save homeowners money and provide peace of mind that they’re doing everything possible to make their homes comfortable, safe spaces to live. ~ Metro

Stay Active, Stay Social: Fun O ortunities for Seniors

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

Winter can be an isolating time, but it does not need to be that way. There are plenty of activities and creative endeavors for those who are looking to get out and enjoy the winter months while doing something fun.

The seniors who like to make things should stop by Makers Mill on 23 Bay Street in Wolfeboro. The Mill is a hub of activity any time of the year and participants can choose from a variety of workshops and classes. Whether painting, woodworking, leatherwork and many other creative activities one could have an interest in, the Mill is sure to offer a workshop.

According to the website for Makers Mill, “We envision a future where people find fellowship, purpose, and joy as they apply their creativity and craft to nurturing thriving economies, healthy ecosystems, and vibrant communities.” That goes for the multitude of workshops that see all ages sign up to learn something new, and often something that will embellish the walls or any space in their home.

Upcoming at Makers Mill are many workshops and there is something for everyone. Those who want to find a creative outlet, get out and meet other people and simply have an enjoyable time can head to Makers Mill for a class or to find out more as did Freddie Moretti, a Wolfeboro resident.

From an initial inquiry, Freddie has become a big part of the Mill and teaches a leatherwork class and is a full member of the facility. Freddie’s wife is also involved as

Makers

a weaver and the couple rent space at Makers Mill for their projects. (The studio offers ample space for a large loom.)

“I teach at Makers Mill once a month, and the rest of the time I am down there playing!” laughs Freddie. “It’s a wonderful venue and I enjoy going down there to make things. My efforts at the Mill go back 100% into the organization because I believe in what they are doing, and I am glad to help.”

As retirees who moved to Wolfeboro from Florida, Freddie and his wife are active seniors. (While many relocate to the warmth of Florida upon retirement, Freddie asserts that he and his wife enjoy cold weather so moving to New Hampshire made sense!

“I got in touch with Makers Mill before we moved up. I was interested in learning pottery, but they did not have a class in that at the time,” he recalls. “However, they told me they had a donation of some leather and it just so happened I have a background working with leather. I spent 18 years of my life doing saddlery work and when I moved here I began to build up the leather area at Makers Mill.”

They asked me to oversee an Intro to Leatherwork class where I first taught saddle stitching, and then I taught a belt-making class. I am doing a series right now on wet molding and coasters. That class will run into January and then I will come up with a new class,” he says.

With a busy life, Freddie says he does not get bored but rather is very active thanks to all he can explore at

Makers Mill. It allows him to tap into the creative side of himself that he may not have had as much time to explore when he was working full-time; he was an electrician when living in Florida.

Colleen Doucette of the Tuftonboro area found a new creative outlet when she took a mixed media class in October. It led her to a new art form she had not really tried before and she now works on acrylic paintings from a home studio. “The mixed media class covered watercolors, pencil, and acrylics among other media,” she says. “I had toyed with using acrylic paint in the past, but never really pursued it before. But in that class, when I used acrylics, it really turned things around for me.”

Colleen had done crafts her whole life but had not used acrylics. Once she tried it, she wanted to do more. She also took a weaving class which she enjoyed.

(Photo courtesy

However, nothing comes close to Colleen’s love for painting with acrylics and she credits Makers Mill and the mixed media class she attended for opening up a new avenue for her creative endeavors. “I do a lot of landscape painting and I work from a small studio in my house. My family tells me I should sell my work, but for now I am just enjoying painting with no goals to sell my art.”

Colleen urges others to take a class and try something new or pursue something they have long dreamed of doing. She says she was not afraid to do so. “I had participated in other classes in the past, so it wasn’t intimidating. The group in the class became friendly and I will probably meet up with the teacher again.”

Come wintertime, the cold months do not hold dreariness for Freddie or Colleen, two senior citizens who define themselves by their creativity and have found a place in life that makes them happy and fulfilled.

Makers Mill offers classes yearround and winter is a great time to take a class or stop by to learn more. January classes include Joyful Art Techniques, 5-Part Series on Fridays in January; How to Use a Multimeter on January 4; Fabric Painting 101 on January 4; Intro to MIG Welding on January 4; Creative Strength Training for Makers 2-Part Series on January 5 and 19 and Weave a Wool Throw Rug on January 5-26; Adaptive Arts Program for Youth on Mondays; Intro to 3D Printing on January 7; a Fiber Mingle Evening on the first Tuesday of each month (starting January 7) and much more throughout the month.

Visit wwwmakersmill.org or call 603-569-1500.

Leather instructor Freddie Moretti at Maker’s Mill in Wolfeboro.

Maker’s Mill)

Surprising Hidden Costs of Home Ownership

A home is the most expensive purchase many people ever make. Buyers understand that certain costs come with home ownership. However, some of the costs associated with home ownership can catch even the most savvy savers off-guard. And in recent years, those extra costs have been surging.

The following are some of the unexpected expenses that come with living the homeowner dream.

• Property taxes: Depending on where you live, property taxes can comprise a large portion of monthly expenses. Some people pay their property taxes separately from their mortgage payments. Others wrap the tax burden into their mortgage bill. Either way, Business Insider reports that New Jersey currently has the highest effective property tax rate in the United States, with a median Garden State property tax bill at $9,000 annually. The lowest property tax rate is found in Hawaii, and the average homeowner there pays only $2,000 in property taxes annually. Zoocasa reports that annual property taxes in Canada can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the province’s property tax rate and average cost of homes.

• Home insurance: CNN Business reports that home insurance premiums have surged in recent years, in large part due to extreme weather. In the U.S., insurance rates jumped 11.3 percent nationally last year, according to S&P Global. Severe storms, including hurricanes and wildfires, cost homeowners insurance agencies nearly $101.3 billion last year, and those losses have been passed on to policyholders through higher prices.

• Mortgage insurance: Many people do not have the stan-

dard 20 percent down payment necessary to buy a home. To circumvent this, lenders will require borrowers to take out mortgage insurance, also called PMI, to offset their risk. Credit Karma says PMI depends on factors such as down payment and borrowers’ credit scores, but typically it’s around 0.2 to 2 percent of the loan amount per year. You can remove PMI from your monthly payment once you have 20 percent equity in your home.

• Maintenance: Even a brand-new home will require some measure of maintenance and routine upkeep. Bankrate indicates one of the biggest costs of owning a home is maintenance, coming in at roughly $3,018 a year and an additional $3,300 for improvements. Lawn care, home cleaning, pest prevention, replacing smoke alarms and batteries, roof repair, and clearing rain gutters are some of those costs.

• HOA and CDD fees: Some communities impose homeowners association fees on those who live within the neighborhood. Such fees cover items like maintenance in and around the community and snow removal. A Community Development District Fee is imposed by the developer of a neighborhood or subdivision to finance the cost of amenities in a neighborhood. Homeowners should be aware of these fees before buying in an HOA community.

Apart from these expenses, annual utility payments can be quite expensive. Utilizing utility plans that offer a fixed cost per month can help homeowners budget for utility expenses more readily.

Homeownership can be costly. Buyers would be wise to familiarize themselves with some of the hidden costs of owning a home prior to purchasing one of their own.~ Metro

by Chef Kelly Ross

Happy Winter of 2025 my friends. One of my favorite hobbies during this time of year is busting out some fun cooking and cranking out some delicious comfort foods. One of the best things to do on a cold winter day is to lock it up at home and cook some great food that warms you from the inside out and bedazzles your taste buds at the same time. That is why I’m here for you today. So, let’s stop dilly-dallying and get into some fun ways to keep your family happy via the kitchen.

Not all people are fans of all foods, but this time of year an incredible soup is generally a winner with almost everyone. I learned this gem from a chef I worked for years ago when I was living in Arizona and it has a great southwestern flavor to it with a blend of ground beef, potatoes, veggies, black beans and green chiles in a cheesy beef or chicken broth base. Granted the chef mentor I speak of had a very sophisticated pallet, so this soup seemed like a shocker to me as it is a very economical meal meant for all pallets and it’s a great family soup for sure. This soup can easily work as a meal if that is your preference or do so as an appetizer, but regardless of when you eat it, I feel confident you will love this as long as you are a fan of southwestern flavors. You can throw this together in 45 minutes although letting it simmer for a while can only help the flavor, not to mention like any soup, it’s often at its best the next day or two later. As an app, this will feed 6-8 and as a meal, I usually plan on it feeding four.

Southwestern Cheesy Burger Soup

1 lb lean ground beef

1 lb package Velveeta, cubed

1 yellow onion, finely chopped

4 small potatoes, chopped

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 can whole corn kernels, 13.5 oz, rinsed and drained

1 can black beans, 13.5 oz, rinsed and drained

1 can green chiles, 4 oz

3 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth/stock or a combo

2 ½ cups whole milk

¼ cup all-purpose flour

½ stick unsalted butter

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp cumin

½ tsp cayenne, optional

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

½ lb or more of cooked bacon, chopped

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt butter in a skillet, then whisk in flour. Cook roux for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown, then whisk in whole milk. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat. Heat a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and cook ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned. Season generously with salt and pepper and garlic powder, then transfer beef to a separate plate and drain all but 2 tbsp fat. Add onion, potatoes and bell pepper to Dutch oven with the 2 tbsp of burger fat and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until veggies are softened and fork tender. Season with salt and pepper, cumin and cayenne, then add corn, black beans and green chiles. Return beef to pot and stir in chicken or beef broth. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes. Stir in the roux mixture, then add in cubed Velveeta. Cover again and simmer for an-

other 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and soup is thick and smooth. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar and bacon bits. Scrumptious as well as hearty and guaranteed to warm you up.

OK, I’m a “ginormous” fan of just about any type of bread but this one is one of the most original I have ever bumped across. This works as a breakfast bread, great as a lunch option or with a side or 2 at dinner time. This is a stuffed potato bread chock full of bacon, sausage and cheese. If that doesn’t get your taste buds jumping you may want to check yourself for a pulse because this is amazing. This is made with mashed potatoes to start with, which makes for a great hearty bread for an amazing combo of incredible flavors. I love this with eggs or quiche in the morning. It also makes a great bread for a breakfast sandwich, and often a couple of warm slices with a salad at lunch or instead of dinner rolls, depending on your entrée choice. When making the mashed potatoes, do not overmix as it will make the bread too starchy so combine it just enough to be blended which gives the bread a fabulous creamy texture. Plan on a half hour or a tad more to prep it and another half hour or a little more to bake it. This makes a single loaf so multiply as needed. I usually make 2-4 loaves. This bread is so good when buttered and grilled or popped into the toaster.

Bacon and Sausage-Stuffed Potato Loaf

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed

½ lb chopped bacon

½ lb of ground breakfast sausage or Italian sausage, crumbled

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

¼ cup sour cream

2 tbsp butter

¼ cup milk

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

½ cup breadcrumbs, optional, for topping

Begin by boiling the cubed potatoes in salted water for 10-12 minutes or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. This step is crucial for creating a smooth and creamy mashed potato base. While the potatoes are cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook for about 5 minutes until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the crumbled sausage and chopped onion. Cook until the sausage is browned, and the onion is softened, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain and return them to the pot. Add the butter, sour cream, and milk. Use a potato masher or fork to mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy mixture will be the heart of your potato loaf. Gently fold the cooked bacon, sausage mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes. Stir until well combined, ensuring that the meat and cheese are evenly distributed throughout the potato mixture. Transfer the mashed potato mixture into a greased loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top. If you like a crispy finish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Bake the potato loaf for 2025 minutes or until the top is golden brown. This will create a delicious crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior. Let the loaf cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This is a bread

you will never forget and will likely make very often. Who loves pepperoni pizza? I know, silly question for most of you. This is not a pizza but one of my favorite appetizers I serve when entertaining as well as a fun special when I used to run restaurant kitchens, especially at Super Bowl parties. I call these Pepperoni Pizza Bombs, and these are so good. They are round balls of pizza fun made with biscuit dough, stuffed with mozzarella and pepperoni, brushed with garlic butter and baked. Once done, dip them in warm marinara or pizza sauce. These are as much fun as they are appealing to the eye and your taste buds. I sometimes pop a slice or 2 of pepperoni on the outside of these before baking for extra eye appeal, not to mention for extra flavor. If pepperoni isn’t your thing, you can always add some sauteed onions, peppers or mushrooms to the center or any other pizza topping that gets you psyched. If you make a good biscuit dough, you can make as many of these as you want. For this recipe I’m using store-bought biscuit dough tubes, which will give you 8 bombs, so again, multiply as needed. The recipe is simple and basic but also very versatile to adapt to your specific taste and is always a crowd favorite. Enjoy the cheesy goodness. You can have these made in a half hour.

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs

1 can refrigerated biscuit dough, 8-count

2 tbsp melted butter

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp Italian seasoning

24 slices pepperoni or more if you want to top the bombs with them

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Marinara sauce, for dipping

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Separate the biscuits and flatten each one into a 3-4 inch circle. Place 3 slices of pepperoni and a small handful of mozzarella cheese in the center of each biscuit. Fold the edges of the dough around the filling, pinching tightly to seal and form a ball. Place the seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning for the topping. Brush this mixture over the top of each pizza bomb. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Let’s talk about some dinner options for a cold winter night. This first one is a great sauté dish using tortellini as the base with a Philly cheesesteak mentality. The combo of cheese tortellini with shaved steak with peppers and onions in a provolone cheese sauce is a must on a cold night that will warm you from the inside out in a great way. I’ve always been a sucker for any tortellini dish when it comes to pasta and combined with a cheesesteak thought process, this is a great marriage. This will take you 45 minutes to put together and will feed 4 for dinner. All ingredients are outstanding but it’s the sauce that brings it all together. Don’t forget a great crusty bread to add to the equation to sop up some of that great sauce.

Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce

1 lb cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen

2 tbsp olive oil, divided

1 lb thinly sliced beef steak. I usually buy shaved steak

from my local butcher

1 large onion, sliced

2 bell peppers, sliced. I prefer using red, orange or yellow

2 tbsp butter

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

1 cup shredded provolone cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with 1 tbsp of olive oil to prevent sticking and set them aside. For the cheesesteak filling, in a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef, onion, and peppers. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper and set that aside. For the sauce, in a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens. Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded provolone cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Combine the cooked tortellini, cheesesteak filling, and provolone sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to coat the tortellini and the filling evenly with the sauce. Heat through, then serve immediately, garnished with additional provolone if desired. Don’t forget the quality bread to dip into the awesome sauce.

Our last dinner for today is done casserole style on a twist on arguably the most famous stuffed chicken breast recipe ever, Chicken Cordon Bleu. It hard not to love this dish with ham and Swiss being wrapped by a chicken

breast and then breaded, either baked or fried and topped with a cheese sauce or a Dijon cheese sauce. This casserole combines all the goodness I just mentioned resulting in an outstanding creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish. This is a perfect winter comfort food that will feed 8 of you and even makes a great leftover dish the next day. You can have this on the table in an hour, half of which is cooking time. I usually cook a chicken or 2 the day before to use or I sometimes buy a large rotisserie.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced 8 oz ham, diced 8 oz Swiss cheese, shredded ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

For the Sauce

4 tbsp unsalted butter

¼ cup all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk, or half-and-half for extra richness ¼ cup Dijon mustard

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted ¼ tsp paprika

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat. Spread the shredded chicken evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with diced ham, then sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the ham. Pour the sauce evenly over the top. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, paprika, and parsley. Mix until evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top

is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair it with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

So much for dinner goodies as it’s time for a couple of fun desserts that will create many smiles. I’m going to start off with a great cookie recipe loaded with a variety of Reese’s goodies, so you know these will be chock full of chocolate and peanut butter. These delectable cookies are a peanut butter lover’s dream as they combine creamy peanut butter, Reese’s Pieces, Reese’s Peanut Butter Chips, and chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups so these cookies deliver rich, sweet, and nutty flavors in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, they are soft, chewy, and filled with bursts of chocolate and peanut butter goodness. Their soft, chewy texture and loaded mix-ins make them a surefire crowd-pleaser. These cookies are not only delicious but also quick and easy to make, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth any time. This will make about 3 dozen cookies, and you can have these out of the oven in a half hour. So good!

Triple Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup creamy peanut butter

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup packed brown sugar

2 large eggs

2 tsp vanilla extract

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

1 cup Reese’s Pieces

1 cup Reese’s Peanut Butter Chips

1 cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the Reese’s Pieces, Reese’s Peanut Butter Chips, and chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with your hand or the back of a spoon. Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely then watch them disappear.

Lastly today, I share with you a classic desert bar that screams fresh cherry pie at the same time. These cherry pie bars are a delicious and visually appealing treat that combines the rich flavors of a traditional cherry pie with the convenience of a bar. These bars are perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as an everyday dessert. The combination of a buttery crust, sweet and tart cherry filling, and a crumbly topping makes them irresistible. I’m a diehard dessert bar fanatic as I grew up with a fantastic grammy who seemed to be baking 24/7 whenever I visited her, she had an array of dessert bars banging around and I’ve been addicted ever since. Again, these are amazingly simple to make just like the cookies earlier. This will get you 9-12 squares depending on how you cut them. You can have these prepped in 20 minutes and plan on 30-35 minutes to bake them. Their beautiful appearance and delicious taste make them a perfect addition to any dessert table.

- Jo Brown, Mayor, City of Franklin

• 85 years of exemplary care

• No entrance fee with all-inclusive amenities

• Pet Friendly

• Beautifully well-appointed suites

Cherry Pie Bars

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

¼ tsp salt

½ tsp baking powder

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 can cherry pie filling, or make your own homemade version

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, butter, salt, and baking powder. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to blend the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Press about two-thirds of the mixture into a 9x9 baking dish to form the crust. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the crust. Crumble the remaining dough over the cherry filling to create the topping. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and bake the bars for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy them as they are or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

I hope this finds all of you well and do your best to enjoy our winter season. Make sure you all keep your taste buds happy and smiling and if you have any questions or feedback, please touch base at fenwaysox10@gmail.com

How to Prepare a Fireplace for the Winter

As hours of daylight shorten and fall gives way to winter, thoughts shift from fall foliage to spending time cuddling under warm blankets and being cozy indoors. A fireplace can improve the ambiance of any room and help to create a warm and welcoming gathering spot.

Home fireplaces typically are wood-burning or gas. Though maintenance for these fireplaces differ, certain preparatory steps must be taken to prepare a fireplace for winter.

Clear the clutter: Items can accumulate in areas that are not in use, and a fireplace is no exception. Take a few hours to remove any belongings from in front of the fireplace and clean the mantle thoroughly.

Have the chimney cleaned: Hire a professional chimney cleaning company to inspect the chimney and clean it thoroughly before winter. According to BobVila.com, a chimney should be cleaned once a year, or after about every 80 fires. The National Fire Protection Association says failure to properly clean chimneys is one of the leading contributors to home fires. That’s due to creosote, a highly flammable residue that builds up in the flue that lines the chimney.

Inspect the interior: The interior of a wood-burning fireplace is likely lined with fire bricks. Check for cracks and loose joints. Hire a professional mason to make any repairs, as special materials are needed to withstand the heat of fires.

Install a chimney cap and screen: According to Family

Handyman, a chimney cap is a protective covering that goes over the top of the chimney. It is made of steel or copper mesh with a cap on top. This protects the chimney from rain and downdrafts and keeps animals and debris from getting into the chimney.

Prune overhanging branches: If there are trees close to the home and the chimney, cut them back, as they can be a fire hazard. Branches and leaves also can restrict the proper draft of the chimney.

Assess the outdoor vent: Gas fireplaces typically emit exhaust through a vent in the home. Remove any blockages from the vent, including leaves, cobwebs and debris.

Check glass or other coverings: The glass or face of the fireplace helps regulate carbon monoxide exposure and protects people from the flames. Be sure the glass covering is intact.

Clean ceramic logs: Gas fireplaces use ceramic logs, rocks or beads that can become dusty. Clean them prior to use. Dirty ceramic logs can be a fire hazard and produce an unpleasant burning smell.

Check the blower and pilot: If the fireplace has an electric blower, clean and dust it so it doesn’t become clogged. Inspect the pilot light for any wear and tear that includes wiring or structural issues.

It takes several steps to prepare fireplaces for cold weather seasons when they’re most likely to be used with frequency. ~ Metro

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