Coastal Home & Garden Magazine Spring/Summer 2023

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The HELOC Flex

Variable rate as low as 8.50% APR*

A Home Equity Line of Credit can help you build a new deck for the summertime, remodel that bathroom you’ve been dreaming of, or any home renovation project you’d like to tackle. It can also add value to your home for the future!

Our HELOC Flex offers flexibility to upgrade your home in the ways that are the most meaningful to you!

831.479.6000 or toll-free at 888.4BAYFED, ext. 304 www.bayfed.com/HomeLoans

* The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is variable and is based upon an Index plus a margin. The Index is the “Prime Rate” as published in the “Money Rates” section of the online edition of the Wall Street Journal on the first day of the billing cycle. Eligible Lines of Credit loan amounts up to $400,000. As of March 24, 2023, the variable APR for Home Equity Lines of Credit ranged from 8.50% APR to 10.00% APR, depending on your credit score (the lowest APR disclosed includes any applicable rate discounts). The maximum APR during the term of the plan is 18.00%. The maximum loan amount is $400,000. An estimate of the fees imposed for opening the plan are $750 to $2500. However, these fees will be waived and/or paid by the Credit Union provided that our security interest in your home is maintained for at least 36 consecutive months from the date the HELOC account is opened. Otherwise, you must reimburse the Credit Union for these waived and/or paid fees (not to exceed $500). An annual fee of $75 is required on all balances of less than $20,000 after the first year. During the Draw Period, you may convert the variable interest rate and repayment schedule on a portion of your outstanding balance to a fixed rate and repayment schedule (subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Home Equity Line of Credit Agreement). Each time you fix a portion of your loan balance, you will be assessed a charge of $50.00. Only three (3) fixed-rate options may exist at any one time.

Offer is available for new applications submitted through December 31, 2023. Loans are subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Interest rates and programs terms are subject to change without notice. Property insurance is required. Other restrictions may apply. Bay Federal Credit Union membership required at the time of closing. For more information, visit any Bay Federal Credit Union branch or call a Bay Federal Home Loan Consultant at 831.479.6000 or toll-free at 888.4BAYFED, ext. 304.

You Can Plant for Pollinators!

Bumble bees are among the most important of native pollinators, both for wildflowers and agriculture, yet they are not well known by non-scientists. Birds, bats, bees, butterflies, beetles, and other small mammals that pollinate plants are responsible for bringing us one out of every three bites of food. They also sustain our ecosystems and produce our natural resources by helping plants reproduce. Without the actions of pollinators agricultural economies, our food supply, and surrounding landscapes would collapse.

Habitat opportunities abound on every landscape – from window boxes to acres of farms to corporate campuses to utility and roadside corridors – every site can be habitat. Its also very important to know your soil type and select appropriate plant material. Planting in clusters to create a “target’ for pollinators to find and planting for continuous bloom throughout the growing season from spring to fall. Select a site that is removed from wind, has at least partial sun, and can provide water. Allowing material from dead branches and logs remain as nesting sites; reduce mulch to allow patches of bare ground for ground-nesting bees to utilize; consider installing wood nesting blocks for wood-nesting natives.

If you’d like your garden to hum with colorful, dancing pollinators, it’s important to grow the nectar and pollen-producing plants that the bees and butterflies in our area are most drawn to. You can find pollinator wildflower mixes with pollinatorattracting varieties like Aster, Asclepias and Coreopsis. The result, easy to grow wildflowers that bring color in their very first season, and last for years to come. Perfect for the expert or novice gardener

alike, colorful mixtures can include favorites such as Cosmos, California Poppy and Red Poppy. Here are eight other wildflowers, Colorado Columbine, Showy Goldeneye, Smooth Aster, Prairie Aster, Globe Gilia, Purple Prairie Clover, Bee Plant and there are many more, that are native to our area and create a breathtaking view. These low-maintenance mixtures requires little water, add color in the first season and for years to come.

While enjoying the beauty of your wildflowers you can also feel good about helping our food supply and the environment.You can find pollinator wildflower mixes with pollinator-attracting varieties like Aster, Asclepias and Coreopsis. The result, easy to grow wildflowers that bring color in their very first season, and last for years to come. Perfect for the expert or novice gardener alike, colorful mixtures can include favorites such as Cosmos, California Poppy and Red Poppy. Here are eight other wildflowers, Colorado Columbine, Showy Goldeneye, Smooth Aster, Prairie Aster, Globe Gilia, Purple Prairie Clover, Bee Plant and there are many more, that are native to our area and create a breathtaking view. These lowmaintenance mixtures requires little water, add color in the first season and for years to come.

While enjoying the beauty of your wildflowers you can also feel good about helping our food supply and the environment.

California Poppies

On March 2, 1903, the California poppy became the official state flower of California. The plant’s bright orange flowers are an unmatched symbol of the Golden State, perhaps viewed as a floral representation of the “fields of gold” sought during the gold rush. It is commonly seen blooming in the spring and summer along country roads and freeways throughout much of the state, making this plant a highly recognizable symbol of California. April 6 of each year is officially designated as California Poppy Day.

It is often believed that there are laws prohibiting the cutting or damaging of the California poppy because it is the state flower. While there is no law protecting the California poppy specifically, a California Penal Code requires written permission from the landowner to remove and sell plant material from land that a person does not own. Removing or damaging plants from property that a person does not own without permission may constitute trespass and/or petty theft.

Like most native wildflowers, California poppies are easy to maintain. The key is providing them with growing conditions that mimic their native habitat. For this plant, it’s more about what you don’t give California poppies than what you do give them. They require very little water and are good candidates for drought-tolerant landscapes. They do not require fertilizer,

even in areas with nutrient-poor soil. The addition of chemical fertilizers can cause excess foliage growth at the expense of blooms.

Deadheading (removing the spent blooms) can promote additional flowering. However, if you want your plants to selfseed, leave some flower heads on to drop their seeds. California poppies grow and bloom best in full sun, meaning at least six hours of direct sunlight on most days. The more sunlight, the better. Poppies grown in shady conditions often will look ragged and more easily succumb to diseases.

It is so easy to grow poppies there is no reason not to. With little effort, they will provide a beautiful and simple addition to your flower gardens!

You can choose from several varieties of California poppies: California Golden - that classic bright orange color of the flowers. Mission Bells – a mix of sherbet hues, including pink, salmon, and cream, with some semi-double blooms (blooms with extra petals).

Golden West - a twist on the familiar orange bloom, as it features a darker center.

DITCH YOUR GRASS

If you are thinking about relandscaping an old lawn, then the Soquel Creek Water District may be able to help. The District offers its customers plant information, design templates and rebates for projects that transform lawn areas into low water using landscapes. The rebate is worth $2 per square foot of lawn removed and replaced with low water using plants, including permeable hardscape. A 500 square foot lawn, for example, may qualify for a $1,000 rebate. The rebate covers labor and materials and applies to both homeowner and professional installations. Lawn replacement projects can vary greatly depending on your wants and needs, from do it

DITCH YOUR GRASS. CLAIM YOUR REBATE.

yourself projects to large scale professional installations. For example, sheet mulching is a simple technique for the do it yourselfer using biodegradable landscape fabric laid over the existing grass and topped with a thick layer of mulch. Plants can then be planted without the need for full lawn removal. On the other hand, full removal of lawn with excavation, soil contouring and installing permeable hardscape takes significant planning, time, labor, and cost. Such projects may include space for play, relaxation and entertaining. Bocci courts, horseshoe pits, fire pits, and patios are complimented by low water using plants and can qualify for rebate funding. Or maybe you just want some fruit trees and low water using plants. Whatever the job size, rebates are available. it’s helpful to create a simple base plan before putting shovel to dirt or hiring a contractor. Envisioning what you want and putting it on paper with a brief sketch and notes is helpful. The plan does not have to be perfectly drafted, it’s simply for planning and layout and helps to communicate what you want to your partner, contractor or others involved in the job. Begin by noting building location, driveways, walkways, fencing, power lines, and existing shrubs and trees. Note the soil type and get a general idea of the sunny and shady spots. Knowing the prevailing wind direction and sun exposure is important for locating patio and play areas, placing plants and orienting shade structures. Think about sight lines and using plants to screen for privacy and wind protection. Consider the types of plants that lived in your area prior to development. Coastal terrace, Redwood and Oak forest are the primary plant communities in our area. Think about including native plants in your plan. Native grasses, shrubs and trees provide food and habitat for pollinators and birds. The District has planting templates based on our local native plant communities, for the asking. As you continue your site assessment, think about rainwater management. This is a great time to consider installing swales and dry creek beds to handle stormwater. A dry creek bed or swale that takes downspout water becomes a burbling brook when it rains. It’s aesthetically pleasing and functional; slowing, spreading, and sinking the rainwater into the soil rather than letting it all flow to the storm drain. Rebates are available for redirecting downspouts to swales and dry creek beds. Next, think about ongoing care. Are gophers an issue? If so, use gopher baskets for the new plants. Will you need an irrigation system? Low water using plants generally need little to no water after establishment. Watering by hand as needed is sufficient, time and space allowing. And most low water users don’t require much feeding, either. Finally, keep in mind how big the plants will get when they are fully grown, especially trees and large scale shrubs.

soquelcreekwater.org/rebates

For more information on Soquel Creek Water District’s turf removal rebate go to www.soquelcreekwater.org/Rebates or call (831) 475-8501 ext. 146.

Enhance Your Home’s Style with Stone

One essential step in planning a home renovation is choosing the right materials. Natural and textured walls continue to be trendy choices, and many building pros and homeowners are gravitating toward stone siding to add comfort, character and beauty.

Panelized stone siding offers the look and feel of natural stone and manufactured stone veneer, but in a panelized format that can be installed with screws. With a wide range of exterior and interior applications, panelized stone siding can complement almost any home style. On the exterior, in particular, stone siding can boost curb appeal and provide a multi-textured facade with a solid return on investment.

Although stone veneer, or manufactured stone, is commonly used on home exteriors, indoor applications are gaining popularity as homeowners are increasingly interested in bringing natural elements inside.

Siding

If you love the look of natural stone but want a more affordable option, panelized stone siding offers an authentic look and simple application with a cutting and installation process similar to traditional siding panels. Some homeowners choose to mix stone with other exterior materials to create a one-of-akind appearance. For example, adding manufactured stone siding alongside existing brick or vinyl siding can infuse visual texture, dimension and impact. Complementing colors can provide a more balanced, traditional look while contrasting colors present as modern and bold.

Entryways

Wrapping columns with panelized stone can make your home’s entrance a focal point, adding curb appeal and creating a welcoming effect.

Accent Walls

Panelized stone siding can also be used to elongate the appearance of a wall while bringing texture and contrast into the home. Warmer tones can make the space more inviting and cozier while cooler hues can bring a modern, industrial feel.

Fireplaces

Manufactured stone siding makes it easy to give a fireplace a facelift or make it a focal point, changing the look and feel of a room. Available in a variety of colors, textures and shapes, it can elevate your living room’s style and create a more inviting area.

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How Manufactured Stone Siding Stacks Up:

• Affordability

Manufactured stone siding resembles natural stone but for a fraction of the cost. Not only are natural stones more expensive than manufactured stone, but since they are heavier, they also cost more to transport.

• Easy Installation

Manufactured stone siding is lighter than natural stone and is available in a familiar panelized format, making it easier and faster to install. Unlike natural stone, panelized stone siding doesn’t require structural supports like footings or tie-ins. No specialty masonry tools are required.

• Low Maintenance

Long lasting and durable, manufactured stone siding requires little maintenance after installation. Many panelized stone siding options are resistant to water, fire and extreme temperatures, standing up to years of weathering with little change in color.

If you have your heart set on a design that incorporates stone materials, you may be surprised to learn how manufactured stone siding outperforms some natural products.

• Design Flexibility

Unlike real stone, manufactured stone siding allows more control over design factors like color consistency and texture. You can choose from a wide range of design styles, making it easy to infuse your personality into your home. Family Features

An affordable option like Versetta Stone panelized stone siding from Westlake Royal Building Products provides the beauty of hand-laid stone with virtually undetectable joints and seams for world-class design featuring timeless colors and textures, natural shapes and hand-crafted details.

Learn how panelized stone siding can bring your vision to life at VersettaStone.com.

How to Grow Delicious & Juicy Tomatoes

For many people, growing big juicy tom toes is part of what makes vegetable gardening so enjoyable. Whether purchasing plants from your local nursery or starting tomatoes from seed, there are a few basic steps to follow to ensure that you harvest an abundant crop at the end of the growing season. There are many different varieties of tomatoes to choose from, depending on whether you will be cooking, canning, slicing, or eating miniature or grape-like varieties right off the vine. Sweet 100 ís are very abundant, and are good for salads as well as eating fresh from the garden. Roma tomatoes are good for making salsa, because the peels are not as tough as others so you don’t need to peel the skins off. Romas are also known as the classic paste and sauce tomato. There are Early Girls, Early Boys, Big Boys, Big Mamas, Sweet Baby Girls, Beefsteaks, French Rose hybrids, Big Rainbow, specialty tomatoes and many more. So start by choosing the kind of tomato you would like to grow.

• Planting Tomatoes from Seeds

Tomatoes grown from seed will require six to eight weeks before they can be planted in the garden. Purchase individual containers or flats, starter soil or mixture, and the seeds of your choice. Fill each container with soil, pressing it tightly to remove air and to avoid settling problems after watering. Each variety is a little different so follow instructions carefully. Prepare a label identifying the type of tomato and the date started. You can make your own from Popsicle sticks or purchase them at the store or garden center.

Insert your label in the pot and mist with water. Place containers in a sunny window and keep seeds moist by placing a plastic bag over them. Small greenhouse containers are also available at your local nursery. Watch for seeds to germinate and remove plastic when plants emerge. Wean out weaker looking seedlings to give strong ones more room to grow. Keep moist by misting or watering tomatoes as needed. When plants have a second pair of leaves it is time to transplant these seedlings to your garden or a large pot in which they are to grow.

If you prefer to purchase plants from your garden center or greenhouse, select dark green plants that are stocky in size and that do not have any fruit. The fruit will stunt the plant growth and the total yield will be reduced. Tomatoes are one of the few plants that will tolerate being planted deeper than they sit in the pot. So a taller plant can be placed a little deeper if preferred. As mentioned, harden off the plant before moving it

• Preparing the Garden Soil

The soil should be deep, loamy, and well-drained for the best harvest. Tomatoes prefer a slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.2 to 6.8. The term pH balance refers to acidity or the alkalinity of your soil from a numerical scale of 1.0 to 14.0. The neutral point on the pH scale is 7.0. Higher than 6.5 indicates alkaline soil, lower than that

Test kits are available at garden centers or through local horticultural organizations. To raise the soil’s pH, work agriculture lime into the soil. Use sulfur to lower the pH of alkaline soil. Using fertilizers and compost amendments will also change the soil’s pH over time. Adding decomposed organic compost will improve any soil structure. You can purchase or make your own compost. Once you have cultivated your garden area and prepared the soil, it is ready for the plantings.

• Planting the Tomatoes

Inspect all of the transplants, looking for insects, wilting or blight. Plant only healthy plants. Tomatoes prefer full sun, so choose an area with at least six to eight hours of sun per day. Practice crop rotation in your vegetable gardening by planting tomatoes and other vegetables in a different spot every year. Tomatoes prefer to be planted by chives, parsley, marigolds, nasturtiums, garlic bulbs, and carrots. Avoid planting tomatoes by potatoes or members of the cabbage family.

For large healthy tomatoes, give them plenty of room to grow. Space plants twenty-four inches between rows and leave twenty-four inches between plants. With your shovel or spade, make holes slightly larger than the plants. Tap gently on the bottom of the individual container, loosening the soil and gently removing from the pot. Tomatoes are susceptible to cutworms, but placing a 3-4 inch nail next to each stem before planting or wrapping strips of newspaper around the bottom of the stems will help prevent these pests. A paper cup surrounding the stem also works well.

Place tomato plant in hole and back fill with soil until it is well compacted. Place a rack or cage around each individual plant to help support future growth. Do not over water or soak the seedlings as this can promote disease and rot. Water early in the day to discourage blight.

Using a rake, spread organic mulch, such as weed-straw, over plants at least two inches deep. These is an effective way to prevent weeds, preserve water and keep the soil warm, thus reducing the maintenance required for vegetable gardening. Fertilize the plants throughout the growing season with compost or organic matter. Water when needed and inspect leaves periodically for the signs of tomato blight and insects. If blight is discovered, remove any infected leaves and destroy them. Treat plant with a fungicide. Be sure to remove all debris from your garden in the fall, as blight can survive on the dried tomatoes over the winter.

Most tomatoes take 100-days to bear fruit, so follow these easy directions and get ready to harvest the fruits of your labors and enjoy that first BLT of the season.

Items Needed For Growing Tomatoes:

• Tomato seeds or plants

• Containers or flats

• A small greenhouse kit or plastic bags

• Starter soil or mixture

• Marking pen

• Popsicle sticks or labels

• Rake

• Spade and shovel

• Water, sun, adequate soil and patience

Varieties good for growing in our area:

• Super Bush (close to the coast)

• Stupice (close to the coast)

• Camp Joy Cherry (foggy areas)

• Jaune Flamme (foggy areas)

• Sungold (cherry tomato)

• Better Boy

• Early Girl

• San Francisco Fog

• Cherokee Purple (heirloom)

Vegetable Container Gardening

Getting started with vegetable container gardening can seem overwhelming but it doesn’t need to be complicated. It is an easy project with a delicious reward. All you need is plants or seeds, a container, some good potting soil, fertilizer, and plenty of sun and water. Growing vegetables in pots doesn’t need to take a lot of time, but it does require that you pay a certain amount of attention to your plants, usually on a daily basis.

There are lots of advantages to growing vegetables in pots. For people with limited outdoor space, growing vegetables in containers may be the only way to go. But even people with a large yard should consider it. There’s no weeding, less chance of soil-borne plant diseases, and critters are less likely to be able to eat your vegetables. Also, many people simply have bad soil for gardening, and you can buy exceptional soil for pots.

One of your first decisions will be whether to buy seedlings or start your vegetable plants from seed. Seeds are very inexpensive and can be fun if children are helping. Watching the seed sprout every day really teaches about growing your own food. You can sow your seeds indoors, usually in late winter or early spring, depending on where you live and the kinds of seeds you are planting. Buying seedlings are easy and give you a head start on growing your own vegies.

You can grow almost any vegetable in a container. Herbs are always a good one, as well as tomatoes, lettuce, and many more. To decide what you are going to grow, think about what you like to eat. Vine vegetables, such as watermelon, pumpkin, and cantaloupe obviously might not be such a good idea. There is nothing better to eat in the world than fresh picked vegetables that you grew yourself. Choose your vegetables, buy supplies, and get started on your very own container garden!

Award-Winning Outdoor Space Inspiration

Renovating your home’s outdoor spaces not only enhances the aesthetic but can also provide a host of recreational benefits. Taking a look at award-winning projects can help many homeowners draw inspiration while also identifying capable, reputable contractors to take on the project.

For example, selected by a panel of industry experts based on functionality, aesthetics, craftsmanship, innovation and degree of difficulty, these National Association of the Remodeling Industry National Contractor of the Year Award Winners showcase a variety of ideas for upgrading your outdoor spaces. Find the complete list at nari.org/cotywinners.

Residential Landscape Design/ Outdoor Living $100,000-$250,000

A young, active family was looking to create a distinct outdoor living space with multiple entertainment spaces that tied in with the existing aesthetic and elevated the home amongst its neighbors. The low-maintenance backyard now features an outdoor dining area, sunken living room, entertainment area and additional storage space built with the home’s current architectural features while also maintaining a large enough yard for the kids and their friends to play.

“The aesthetic of the outdoor areas was designed not only for function but also to reflect the interiors and keep the inside-outside living feeling continuous,” said Tim Johnson, owner and founder of Livit Site + Structure. “For example, the shiplap used on the fire table is the same shiplap featured inside the home. Likewise, the Douglas fir timbers used on the pergola are the same as the interior ceiling beams.”

Landscape Design/ Outdoor Living Under $100,000

The clients wanted to upgrade a poorly draining, impractical backyard into an attractive, functional outdoor entertainment space that flowed from the renovated basement. The project included an outdoor area for entertaining, outdoor kitchen, spacious patio with a custom concrete fire pit, oversized ceiling fans, ample storage and landscaping complete with native plants around the perimeter.

“By working on this project, we learned how important it is to take a holistic look at what clients are trying to accomplish with their renovations,” said Thomas Boyce, president of Boyce Design & Contracting. “Often with outdoor living projects, designers and contractors look at the exterior of the home in isolation. We learned to look at how the interior and exterior of the home connect to each other to make sure the features and floor plan flow and work well together. By taking this approach, we were able to achieve a better finished product that is more functional and attractive for our clients.”

Residential

A 4,000-square-foot project built at four different elevations, this client wanted to include a safe way to move from the upper level to the backyard without coming through the house, a structure for shade and protection from mosquitoes and a pool with features that reflected the home. Adding a covered screen room with individually controlled wall panels, see-through fireplace, fountain, pool with sheer descent waterfalls, recycled rock walls and staircase from the upper elevation while enclosing it all within a stone wall met those expectations.

“A sound piece of advice for anyone building anything in the backyard: get a plan,” said Ken DePratt, owner of KD Poolscapes, Ltd. “Have it match your expectations list. Then, and only then, will you know if it matches your budget. We would recommend doing your research when taking on a pool project of any size. It’s hard to push that hole around once it’s dug.” Family Features

R EA L ESTATE

10 Affordable Ideas to Boost Curb Appeal

These 10 ideas are easy on budgets, but they can also make a big impact on your home’s exterior image.

1 Paint your front door

As long as your front door is in good condition, there’s no need to replace it completely. A fresh coat of paint can instantly update your home’s facade. Go bold or stick with a classic hue – it’s all up to you.

2 Dress up the windows

Add character and charm by enhancing your front windows. You might add wooden shutters, window box planters or both. Also look at the trim around the windows. If it’s chipped and peeling, adding a fresh coat of paint doesn’t just look nice, it can protect your windows from damage, too.

3

Clean up flower beds

An unkempt flower bed can drag down an otherwise stunning home. Keep beds tidy and vegetation trimmed, even during the offseason. Watch for weeds and replenish mulch or rock ground cover as needed to keep the beds looking healthy and inviting.

4 Install new lighting

Replacing outdated light fixtures can give your exterior an instant upgrade. There’s no right or wrong style; just choose a color and look that matches the rest of your design.

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Replace worn welcome mats

A cheerful mat at your front door can be an inviting sight for visitors, but those mats inevitably wear with time, and what was once bright and charming becomes dingy and dull. A new mat can help bring back that cheery entry you once cherished.

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Over time, driveways and sidewalks collect an incredible amount of grime. Pressure washing not only eliminates the filth, but the clean surfaces also add to your home’s visual appeal.

7 Add new vegetation

Landscaping is a relatively inexpensive way to introduce more personality to a yard. Aim for a mix of pretty and practical, such as some low flowering bushes and some trees or bushes that offer privacy and shade.

Basic maintenance

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When your home is in poor repair, it shows. Pay attention to bent or rusting gutters, imperfections in the roof and other maintenance matters that aren’t just aesthetic; left unrepaired, they can also result in major damage.

Great Spring Savings!

Buy 7 Anlin windows and 1 Anlin door from Aptos Glass, and have us install it, and we will upgrade the door to have a pet door insert for your furry family member compliments of Aptos Glass & Ideal Windows, Inc.

Come by our showroom to discuss your project in detail and view samples from our large collection!

(831) 662-9272

carrie@aptosglass.com 402 Trout Gulch Road Aptos, CA 95003

Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm, Saturday by appointment only.

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Pay attention to details

Functional items like the mailbox might not seem like much of a design element, but these small details can be a big distraction if they’re not in good condition. Update or replace as needed to keep your aesthetic in sync.

10 Add seasonal decor

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There’s no need to go all out for every occasion, but some timely decorations that celebrate the holiday or season can make your entry fun and festive. Coordinate wreaths, planters, signs and other accent pieces for a cohesive look that says, “come on in.”

Start your Spring by Getting Outdoors & Enjoying State Parks

For many people, modern life means spending more time indoors. In fact, Americans spend roughly 90% of their time indoors, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. This has had numerous direct and indirect health impacts, from respiratory issues due to poor indoor air quality to reduced physical activity due to an indoor sedentary lifestyle.

People of all ages are starting to make a change, embracing the outdoors for all the benefits it can provide to their mental and physical health. Since there are opportunities for getting outdoors nearby wherever you live or travel, there’s no better time to commit to getting outside than now.

• First Day Hikes •

A new year offers 365 days of opportunity, and what better way to start your outdoor goals than with First Day Hikes on New Year’s Day at a state park near you? State parks in all 50 states are offering free, guided First Day Hikes run by outdoor experts who want to help you explore the best the park has to offer.

Visit stateparks.org to find a local participating park and enjoy New Year’s Day making memories outdoors while exercising and connecting with nature. The distance and rigor vary depending on the park and the program, but all hikes have one goal: to create a fun experience for the whole family while fostering an appreciation for the outdoors.

• Explore Local • Treasures Year-round

It’s easy to take for granted what’s in your own backyard, and state parks are a reminder of the beauty of the different seasons while offering ample amenities that make exploration easy any time of year. Once you visit, you’ll want to return again and again to cherish the scenery and create many more memories with your family.

Whether it’s a family picnic, a guided group hike, bird watching, rock climbing or simply a calm walk listening to the sounds of nature, there are many activities to explore at state parks. Check out the month’s park programs run by knowledgeable state park staff and volunteers to see what may be of interest to you and your family.

• Discover Different Parks Throughout The U.S. •

In the United States there are 6,792 state park areas comprising 18,694,570 acres. These parks offer 14,672 trails over 52,603 miles total length - that’s more than twice around the Earth at the equator! Whether you’re exploring your local park or looking for a way to enjoy the outdoors while traveling, there’s a state park nearby that is sure to bring the wonder of nature to your family.

Every state park has different opportunities, from hiking, biking, and equestrian trails to swimming, marinas and ski slopes. The best way to get acquainted with a state park is to visit it and see for yourself. Wear comfortable shoes and consider packing a water bottle and protein bar for your hike and you’ll be ready to enjoy nature to the fullest.

Start your Spring with a First Day Hike and let this be the year you commit to getting outdoors and enjoying state parks. You’ll feel a deeper connection with nature and your loved ones, all while making lifelong memories.

ContainerHomes

Shipping containers have become the hottest trend in living spaces. No longer are they just for parking on your property for storage or for shipping products across the oceans but can also be converted into a beautiful environmentally conscious home built using recycled building materials. Due to their convenient size, shipping containers are wellsuited for use in houses and their appeal lies in their apparent simplicity: you get a room delivered in one piece, and you can stack them together to make multiple rooms or join them up to make larger rooms.

There are many pros and cons to weigh before deciding to build a container home. So, is it just a trend? For now, it does not seem like it. With entire offices, schools, and even restaurants being built from shipping containers, the options are endless.

One of the perks of building a container home is that the frame is already there. This means, depending on the architecture, construction time is a lot quicker and at lower costs. Because most container homes are built with used containers, they are considered to be eco-friendly. Of course, if you are purchasing a used container make sure you look at it first and find out what the contents were when it was being used. You might consider having the container(s) you buy fumigated to make sure there are no toxins within. A favorite option is the “One Trip” Container. Although it has brought over one cargo load from where it’s been manufactured, it’s only been used once and is still clean and new.

The first thing to do when considering a container home is to plan your budget. One of the largest expenses when building a shipping container home is actually purchasing the shipping containers. They typically cost approximately $3,800.00 to $7,000.00 apiece depending on their size. Standard shipping containers are 8’ wide, 8.5’ high and come in two lengths; 20’ and 40’. Extra tall shipping containers called high-cube containers are available at 9.5’ high. Choosing the right container is absolutely crucial to

both your budget and the success of your project. Whichever type of container you buy (new or used) make sure that they are all the same brand. Manufactures use slightly different measurement tolerances when making the containers, so building with different brand containers can sometimes be difficult.

What are the specifics of the house you want to build? How many bedrooms will your home have? How many stories will it have? Do some research; price out your materials, appliances, and such. Check shipping containers first—it might take a while to actually have it delivered to your house site and the shipping is not free. Scour the salvage yards at demolition sites, recycle shops, and junkyards. If you spy something you want at site, make sure you ask first. Usually they will give it to you or if they charge it will be minimal. You know the old saying, “One person’s junk is another person’s treasure”!

Shipping container homes are relatively simple to build. They go up in almost no time at all and are built to last forever. Don’t forget, they are designed to hold up to 57,000 pounds. There is a good amount of preparation, construction and tune-up projects necessary for turning a shipping container into a home. This includes setting a foundation, cutting frames for doors and windows, insulating, installing utilities, and adding a roof and flooring. Properly insulated, they can make for a warm and cozy home in the winter. There are also effective ways at making them resistant to excessive heat. They can withstand practically any extreme weather, such as hurricanes, tornadoes and earthquakes. Standing alone, a metal shipping container can handle 100 mile per hour winds. Securely anchored, it can take winds up to 175 miles per hour. You can also rest assured that it will never collapse during an earthquake. By far, they make for the safest storm shelters.

If you’re looking for economy and a house that is ecofriendly, a shipping container home is for you. Do your research, plan your budget, and before you know it your new home will be ready for you to move in!

Keeping our community safe from sewage spills and keeping maintenance costs down are important. You can help by remembering this simple phrase: ‘Think Before You Flush’. Put trash where it belongs…in the trash.

Keeping our community safe from sewage spills and keeping maintenance costs down are important. You can help by remembering this simple phrase: ‘Think Before You Flush’. Put trash where it belongs…in the trash.

Flushable wipes clog

sewer pipes. Wipes do not dissolve; even if you flush just one, wipes collect in pumps and valves causing clogs.

sewer pipes. Wipes do not dissolve; even if you flush just one, wipes collect in pumps and valves causing clogs.

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY

ART SUPPLIES

LENZ ARTS

142 River St, Santa Cruz

831.423.1935 • www.lenzarts.com

Serving you for over 50 years, Lenz Arts offers the largest selection of fine art supplies and is the oldest custom frame shop on the Central Coast. Described as “one of the last real art stores on the West Coast,” people drive for hours to take advantage of our comprehensive stock and knowledge. From the finger-painting toddler to the professional gallery artist, we’ve got you covered. Come in and browse our vast inventory of art supplies. We have something for everybody!

ARTIFICIAL LAWNS

ARTIFICIAL LAWNS DIRECT

849 Almar Avenue Suite C #193, Santa Cruz 831.430.9260 • www.artificiallawnsdirect.com

Locally trusted with hundreds of synthetic turf jobs, satisfaction and beauty is our main goal for our clients. Picture a beautiful, lush, year-round green lawn that is virtually maintenance-free. By choosing synthetic grass through Artificial Lawns Direct, you and your family will be freeing up your weekends for more family time. The possibilities are endless...how about a putting green, volleyball, bocce ball court, play yard, many more! Landscape turf is our specialty. Our synthetic turf is family and pet friendly.

PURCHASE GREEN

831.706.2674 • www.purchasegreen.com

With a standing inventory of over 2,000,000 square feet of grass in our stores, Purchase Green can offer the best products at the best prices at more locations than any other distributor – and all with the best customer service in the county. Purchase Green offers a complete line of residential, commercial, sports turf, and pet-friendly applications, as well as putting greens. All products are made with the highest quality yarns and have the most complete backing system available, with options in both latex and polyurethane.

Banking

BAY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

831.479.6000 • www.bayfed.com

Bay Federal Credit Union is a full service, not for profit, financial cooperative. We provide personal and business banking services but, unlike a bank, we’re owned by our accountholders and members like you! Our goal is to be better than a bank by delivering outstanding service, competitive savings yields, low loan rates, and many low and no-cost services. Our Board of Directors is made up of unpaid volunteers who spend countless hours ensuring the safety and stability of your money in the Credit Union.

CONSTRUCTION SUPPLIES

APTOS LANDSCAPE SUPPLY

5035 Freedom Blvd, Aptos

831.688.6211 • www.aptoslandscapesupply.com

At Aptos Landscape Supply, we believe in creating beautiful outdoor spaces, while being mindful of our customers’ budgets and timelines. We stock a wide variety of top landscaping and hardscaping materials, including flagstone, wall rock, topsoil, bricks, pavers, and much more, while also offering fast delivery of these products to your home or job site. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff is always willing to assist with questions and suggestions on projects of any size, making sure our customers feel confident in their landscaping ventures.

CENTRAL HOME SUPPLY

808 River Street, Santa Cruz • 831.423.0763

180 El Pueblo Rd, Scotts Valley • 831.440.0763

www.centralhomesupply.com

As a family owned and operated business, Central Home

Supply prides itself on personal, one-on-one service; expert advice; referrals to local contractors; and an ever-growing list of products. Pick up your products here or we’ll deliver it to your home. Whether it be a flatbed, forklift, and dump truck, we have the right sized vehicle to access your job. No project is too big or too small, from large commercial to small residential, Central Home Supply has the experience to get the job done right.

GRANITEROCK

303 Coral Street, Santa Cruz • 831.471.3400

540 West Beach Street, Watsonville • 831.768.2500

www.graniterock.com

Since the beginning, Graniterock has focused on keeping customers happy. This requires us to anticipate and exceed customer needs and expectations. The result is that you get what you need, whether it’s the right sand or the right information. That’s why we live by our “Yes, we will” standard of responding positively and creatively to every request for special products and/or services. We exist to provide a place where inspired people can do their best work - building great projects and developing enduring customer relationships.

EQUIPMENT RENTALS

A TOOL SHED EQUIPMENT RENTALS

3700 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz • 831.477.7133

285 W. Beach Street, Watsonville • 831.722.0334

www.atoolshed.com

A Tool Shed Equipment Rentals Inc. is your equipment rental solution for all your rental needs. We have the rental inventory to help you get your job done quickly and easily. You’ll appreciate our wide selection of rental tools available for the novice or do it yourselfer to the experienced contractor. Give us a call, we will be happy to give advice, suggestions, and referrals to make your project easier. We maintain a large selection of manufacturer training videos that will help with those new or seemingly impossible projects.

FLOORING AND DESIGN

INTERIOR VISION

2800 Daubenbiss Avenue, Soquel 831.219.4484 • www.interiorvision.biz

We can help you with everything from the simple problem to complex installations including products for radiant heat, patterns, and borders. We carry both prefinished and sand and finish hardwoods including bamboo and exotic woods, laminates such as Mannington, Natural Linoleum, all major brands of carpet, wool, sisal, cork, custom and ready made area rugs, porcelain tile, and Hunter Douglas Allustra and window shades and shutters. Let us help with some of the most confusing decisions you will ever have to make.

MR. SANDLESS

1-877-966-3360 • www.mrsandless.com

We are the company that invented sandless refinishing! Our traditional service uses wet solutions and our high-speed machine to prepare your floor. Then we seal your floor with multiple coats of our commercial grade sealer and finish with your choice of matte, satin, or gloss finish. We also finish cabinets, tables doors, benches, stairs, handrails, outdoor and more! Give us a call to talk about all your options!

FURNISHINGS & DÉCOR

AMERICAN LEISURE

1118 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz • 831.423.2425 3550 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose • 408.446.9350 www.americanleisure.com

American Leisure started in 1972 as a small manufacturer of custom-made, one-of-a-kind patio furniture. For over 40 years, our skills have been honed as we have grown the business to what it is today; A leading retailer of top-ofthe-line indoor and outdoor furniture in the Silicon Valley and Monterey Bay Areas. Family owned, we’ve built our reputation on quality, integrity, and providing excellent customer service. We treat each customer as though they are our only customer and believe no order is too small or too large.

GARAGE DOOR

A-1 OVERHEAD DOOR CO.

831.219.8648 • www.aonedoor.com

Quality is the cornerstone of our work. That’s why when your neighbors need help with their garage doors, they know who to call. We provide garage door repair, tune-up, install and replacement service in and around Monterey and Santa Cruz County. If your garage door is not working properly or won’t open or if your garage door remote controls need a little maintenance, our expert garage door technicians will be there to help quickly.

GARDEN AND HOME

KNOX GARDEN BOX

46-A El Pueblo Road, Scotts Valley

831.461.9430

It’s easy to create a smaller, more manageable, and prolific garden with a preassembled Knox Garden Box. Solve problems with overly compacted soil, poor drainage, voracious garden pests, damage cold temperatures, water shortages, and sore muscles from incessant bending and kneeling. Having your garden raised off the ground has a few other benefits besides reducing the need to bend over and kneel. The boxes provide exceptional soil drainage and solve the problem of gophers, which can destroy a whole garden in a day.

LANDSCAPING

C & B LANDSCAPE, INC.

195 San Pedro Ave., Ste A, Morgan Hill 408.847.2370 • www.candblandscape@aol.com

Founded in 1988, C & B Landscape has a reputation for unparalleled knowledge and a true understanding of customer needs. Each C & B Landscape service is performed by highly skilled professionals, so you benefit from experienced people who have a strong desire to exceed your expectations. No matter what we build, whether it’s a small garden job or the complex landscape of a mega construction, we complete each project with the same commitment to excellence and attention to detail.

JAY WELTY LANDSCAPING

831.684.0433

Specializing in creative garden renovations: waterfalls, stone patios, lighting and irrigation, Jay Welty has been creating beautiful landscapes since 1978. We offer several services including arbor construction, artificial grass installation, brick, and stone driveway installation and much more. See what you can design with Jay Welty! Call for a free consultation.

K & D LANDSCAPING

62-C Hangar Way, Watsonville

831.728.4018 • www.kndlandscaping.com • info@ kndlandscaping.com

With pride that runs deep, this family owned and operated company is paving a new path in the industry. K&D was founded on six core values that are the backbone to this dedicated team; Professionalism, Teamwork, Humility, Hunger, Safety, and Respect. These core values have not only helped the company grow and succeed, they have also helped the community shine. K&D is dedicated to providing the community and surrounding area with the highest quality service in the industry.

LAND SERVICES

EARTHWISE LAND SERVICES

399 Airport Blvd., Freedom 877.599.9797 • www.earthwiselandservices.com • info@ earthwiselandservices.com

Earthwise Land Services specializes in low impact land sculpting. We are a family-owned local company, serving Santa Cruz and surrounding counties for over 30 years. Our experienced team of 48 ensures your project will be completed on time and on budget. Our focus includes land clearing, erosion control, dust control, water drainage, driveways, and retaining walls. Our passion is to share our environmentally conscious concepts with customers and through innovation, promote sustainable projects so that they may bring your vision to life.

LEAK DETECTION

STARK LEAK DETECTION

831.334.5944 • starkwes@aol.com • www.starkleak.com

Stark Leak detection utilizes the latest in detection technologies, and it a nationally recognized authority in leak detection methodology. Our service is non-invasive and non-destructive to your property or established landscape. Whether we are checking for water, gas, or air leaks, we offer reliable service and great customer service!

PAINTING CONTRACTOR

JUENEMAN PAINTING

831.345.7252

Serving Santa Cruz for over 25 years, we provide top-rated interior, exterior, residential, and commercial painting. We are dependable, professional, and always friendly. Call today to get your quote on our Summer Special -- 10% off your paint!

PHILANTHROPIC

DOMINICAN HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

1555 Soquel Drive, Santa Cruz

831.462.7712 • www.supportdominican.org

The Dominican Hospital Foundation was established to cultivate philanthropic support to meet the changing healthcare needs of our community. Established in 1966 when a citizens’ committee raised $1 million to build the first phases of Dominican Hospital’s present facility, the Foundation continues to be led by community leaders who donate their time, expertise, and financial resources.

REAL ESTATE

ATLANTIS PROPERTIES

94 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos

408.354.8910 • www.atlantisproperties.net

Atlantis Properties specializes in Property Management Services, which includes single-family homes, town homes, duplexes, apartments, and small commercial properties. We offer personalized service to meet your real estate investment objectives. The company manages properties in Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, San Mateo, and Monterey Counties. We are a member of the National Association of Residential Property Managers, the California Apartment Association, the Building Owners and Managers Association and the Santa Clara County Association of REALTORS®.

JIM FURLONG

David Lyng Real Estate

831.212.9648 / 831.429.5700 • www.jimfurlong.com

Jim is a top producing real estate expert and has received many industry awards. He brings home top producer awards every year. For almost three decades, Jim’s career as a business owner honed his skills in marketing, sales, and management. Owning relocation, storage, and transportation businesses directed at corporations and independent real estate markets, he has paved the way from working directly with vendors to real estate. With his hard work and passion, you can expect only the best service and results when marketing your property.

PAUL BURROWES

David Lyng Real Estate

831.295.5130 • www.paulburrowes.com

With unparalleled industry knowledge, experience, and local expertise, I’m the Scotts Valley Real Estate expert you’ve been looking for. Whether you’re buying or selling, I can help you get the best deal. Just looking? That’s OK. Use my website all you like, feel free to create a free account to unlock all the best search features. Once you sign up, you’ll be able to save listings, save your search criteria, get automated email updates for new homes matching your saved search criteria, and more. Good luck on your house hunt! I hope to hear from you soon.

HART AND ASSOCIATES

6275 Hwy 9, Suite A, Felton

831.247.9410 • www.hartandassoc.info

California Dreaming was founded in 2007. Our company is an active member of “Think First Santa Cruz”. What started with two agents has grown and will continue to be the local office to go to for your real estate needs. Although we now operate on a widespread basis throughout the Counties of Santa Cruz and Santa Clara, we are proud to say that California Dreaming is still an independent and locally owned company. Keeping our company’s dollars here for our community means investing in our community’s future.

KATHLEEN MANNING

Sotheby’s Real Estate

831.566.3127 • www.kathleenmanning.com

With more than 20 years of experience, Kathleen is one of the most knowledgeable and experienced professionals in the area. Kathleen offers the skills and experience required to successfully buy or sell a home in today’s complex market: Skilled negotiation, utilization of new technology, creative marketing, organization, careful listening and great communication, extensive knowledge of the area and a professional service team to insure a smooth transaction.

REYES REAL ESTATE TEAM

831.707.8067 / 888.584.9427 www.jessesellingcalifornia.com • jessesellingcalifornia@ gmail.com

The Reyes Real Estate Team will provide home buyers and sellers with professional, responsive, and attentive real estate services. Want an agent who’ll really listen to what you want in a home? Need an agent who knows how to effectively market your home so it sells? Give us a call! We are eager to help and would love to talk to you. We are always here to help first time buyers and guide them through the process.

ROOM Real Estate

6990 Highway 9, Felton 831-234-6683 • www.roomsantacruz.com

Founded by local real estate expert Jayson Madani and Maaret Forst, we’re a boutique real estate agency serving buyers and sellers in the Santa Cruz area. With $377 million in real estate sales, we are consistently ranked as the area’s No. 1 selling real estate team. Our team members know the local neighborhoods and communities, and our clients benefit from our agents’ knowledge, experience, and deep network contacts. Room Real Estate: raising the bar on the Santa Cruz County real estate scene.

ROOFING

BAY QUALITY ROOFING

399 Airport Blvd, Freedom 888.289.0009 • www.bayqualityroofing.com

Our roofing services are based in Freedom, CA, but please don’t hesitate to call if you need maintenance, installation, or repairs in any of the Santa Cruz County communities. Your commercial roof protects your livelihood, and our experts are here to supply the skill needed to keep that roof in excellent condition. Bay Quality Roofing experts can assess any problems. Never let concerns get worse; your roof is one of the most critical aspects of your building structure and taking care of it means taking care of your investment.

KNOX ROOFING

46 El Pueblo Road, Scotts Valley 831.461.0634 www.knoxroofing.com

When it comes to working with a roofing company in the Santa Cruz and Monterey areas, it’s important to choose an experienced roofing company. Knox Roofing is the roofing specialists that homeowners have depended on for over 30 years. With free estimates, available financing and a personal touch with all customers, Knox Roofing has become known as the go-to choice when homeowners want to replace, repair, or install a roof. Give us a call today to discuss your roofing project!

SANITATION

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY SANITATION

701 Ocean Street, Room 410, Santa Cruz 831.454.2160 dpw.co.santa-cruz.ca.us/Home/Sanitation.aspx

The Santa Cruz County Sanitation District provides sewer services and maintenance to the communities of Live Oak, the City of Capitola, and portions of Aptos and Soquel. The district maintains pipelines transporting waste from the District to the Santa Cruz City Wastewater Treatment Facility, located at Neary Lagoon. Visit the County’s Public Works website for information on sewer service outside of these areas.

SHOPPING CENTER

APTOS VILLAGE SQUARE

7960 Soquel Dr., Drive, Aptos Conveniently located off Highway 1 and just outside Aptos Village, Aptos Village Square is host to several Aptos favorites, including Uncle Kwok’s, Showtime Pizza, Fleet Feet, Hotsource Yoga, Studio E Dance, Quality Water, Jansen Music, The UPS Store, CrossFit Aptos, Shanne Carvalho, WorkSpace, Bicycle Lifestyle, and Caledonia Salon. Follow us on Instagram!

WATER PROVIDER

SOQUEL CREEK WATER DISTRICT

5180 Soquel Drive, Soquel 831.475.8500

www.soquelcreekwater.org

The Soquel Creek Water District is a non- profit, local government agency that provides water resource management and a safe, reliable supply of water to mid- county residents and businesses. The District serves approximately 40,400 customers through 15,800 connections in four service areas within mid-Santa Cruz County solely with groundwater. We are a public agency dedicated to providing a safe, high quality, reliable, and sustainable water supply to meet our community’s present and future needs in an environmentally sensitive and economically responsible manner.

WATER PROVIDER

SOQUEL CREEK WATER DISTRICT

5180 Soquel Drive, Soquel 831.475.8500

www.soquelcreekwater.org

The Soquel Creek Water District is a non- profit, local government agency that provides water resource management and a safe, reliable supply of water to mid- county residents and businesses. The District serves approximately 40,400 customers through 15,800 connections in four service areas within mid-Santa Cruz County solely with groundwater. We are a public agency dedicated to providing a safe, high quality, reliable, and sustainable water supply to meet our community’s present and future needs in an environmentally sensitive and economically responsible manner.

WINDOW & GLASS SPECIALIST

APTOS GLASS

402 Trout Gulch Rd. Aptos 831.662.9272 • www.aptosglass.com

We are Carrie, Chris and Jacob Zachmeier: co-owners of Aptos Glass & Ideal Windows. We’ve spent decades working closely with our clients, helping to make their dream homes a reality. We take great care in our projects and treat each home as if it’s our own. Whether your project is simple and straightforward or you envision a more custom design, we’re here to help every step of the way. You’ll work directly with one of our owners until we’ve brought your dream to life.

THE SKYLIGHT PLACE

4850 Capitola Rd., Capitola 831.476.2023

info@skylightplace.com • www.skylightplace.com

We are a full-service glass shop that offers residential and commercial glass repair, shower doors, skylights, window screens, and window replacement. The Skylight Place has been in business since 1971 servicing all your glass needs. We know how difficult the construction process can be and that’s why we pride ourselves on expert installation and doing the job right the first time!

Improve Wellness with Affordable Bathroom Upgrades

Wellness is at the forefront of nearly everyone’s mind, including keeping germs at bay and creating surroundings that promote mental and physical health. Even small, but important, spaces like the bathroom can benefit from changes with wellness in mind.

A bathroom can be one of the easiest rooms in your home to give a little extra TLC toward creating a healthier lifestyle. These cost-effective measures can turn your bathroom into a more practical, functional space that promotes your well-being.

Switch Up Surfaces

The countertops in your bathroom, much like the flooring, must be able to withstand a lot of water. Nonporous vanity tops, such as those made from quartz, hold up to being wet constantly and can help keep germs from breeding. In addition to being easy to clean, a solid-surface option like quartz never needs to be sealed or polished, making it an aesthetically pleasing, long-lasting option.

Clean Green

Bathrooms are often hot and steamy places, and water vapors in the air can carry potentially harmful chemicals from cleaning products. Green cleaning products are made to control the spread of bacteria and viruses using safe and effective means. Not only are they helpful in preventing asthma attacks and other respiratory ailments, but they are a low-cost way to improve overall indoor air quality.

What you use to clean yourself is just as important. Using green or organic personal care items can help reduce toxin exposure and lessen the likelihood of an allergic reaction.

Reduce Humidity

All that steam can affect your health in other ways, too, since it c reates a humid environment that encourages mold and mildew. A heated towel rack is an inexpensive way to add a touch of luxury to your space while generating heat that helps reduce humidity and the growth of mold and mildew, therefore benefitting indoor air quality.

Heated towel racks like those from Amba Products come in a variety of finishes and styles to coordinate with your decor. Another advantage: Since the racks dry towels, they’ll stay mildew-free longer and don’t need to be washed as often, which helps save valuable natural resources.

Enhance Air Quality

Creating a green, spa-like oasis with plants can bring wellness benefits that don’t break the bank. Indoor plants help rid the environment of pollutants, and the energy and ambiance they add may have mental health benefits, too. Plants like mother-in-law’s tongue or peace lily are popular options to incorporate as natural air purifiers.

Explore Color

A bathroom’s color palette can also play a role in your wellness goals. Warmer shades like red and orange enhance energy while cooler colors like green and blue can be calming.

Begin planning bathroom upgrades that improve your health and well-being with more tips and ideas at ambaproducts.com.

The Pros and Cons of Artificial Turf

Artificial Turf Pros:

Weather Resistant

Artificial grass is beautiful in all types of weather. Weather does not affect the appearance of the turf. It will continue to stay green, neat, tidy, and look good all year round, whatever the weather.

Low Maintenance

Artificial turf does not need to be watered, fertilized, or mowed like real grass.

Ideal for Older Users

The easy maintenance of artificial grass will benefit older and disabled users who might find it difficult to mow and maintain their lawn.

Cost-Effective

Artificial turf can work out to be cheaper to maintain over time. This is because natural grass becomes expensive when adding the cost of fertilizers, pesticides, and the lawn tools that are required to maintain it.

Allergy-Free

Artificial grass is allergy-free, which makes it perfect for hay-fever sufferers. Grass pollen is a high cause of allergies, whereas artificial turf stays pollen-free so you can stay hay-fever free all year round.

Artificial Turf Cons: Installation Can Be Costly

Artificial grass can be expensive to install if the quality of the turf is of a good standard – this is a sound investment as you need your grass to be fitted to the highest standards.

No Freshly Cut Grass Smell

It does not have the natural, fresh-cut smell that real grass has which some people might see as a negative point, along with enjoying cutting the lawn on a sunny Sunday afternoon.

Not as Long-Lasting as Natural Grass

On average, artificial grass has an expected lifespan of 10-15 years. This is still a long time and will provide the customer with many years of easy maintenance. Check with your provider for different qualities of Artificial lawn.

If you could have the perfect lawn without the maintenance, would you? Artificial turf promises that and more. But like everything else in this world there are pros & cons.