Up North Voice - Spring Home Improvement 2023

Starting a home improvement project

Most homeowners think about renovations eventually. Unless you have good handle on home improvement, you’ll probably hire someone to do the work for you. That’s where things can get tricky. Who do you hire, and how do you know whether he’s reputable?

Here are a few reasons to go with a pro:

Experience with projects like yours

It’s true that there’s no other home quite like yours, but there are common threads among most renovation projects. For bathrooms, kitchens, home additions, and anything else that you might want, a professional contractor has years of experience working with the home systems and materials to do the job right.

Skills in different areas of home improvement

Along with experience comes expertise, and that’s something that can only be learned with time in the industry. A professional contractor has framed a wall, installed a subfloor, hung doors and windows and mounted kitchen cabinets in many other homes. He knows the pitfalls to watch out for, which tools and materials work best.

Safety that protects you and your home

Safety is a top concern among all professional contractors. It means that a job is done right, and it also helps prevent injuries and property damage. That means you can count

▪ See STARTING A PROJECT on page 3

Looking for a contractor?

Please reach out to one of the vendors in the AuSable Media Spring Home Improvement section to assist with your next project

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Highland Building Centers

Midge & Co. Luxury Homes

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Hall Construction

World of Floors

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Bernard Building Center

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Woodhaven Log and Lumber North Shore Hardware

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K & D RV Center

Highland Building Center

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Nature’s Beauty Rustic Furniture Got Your Six Powerwashing

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CMR Crane and Services

Mason’s Lumber & Hardware

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Colvin’s Heating & Cooling

Pioneer General Store

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Roscommon Glass

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Wise Plumbing & Heating

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The Woodworker’s Shoppe

American Chimneys

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Blue Jay Valley Builders

Lakeside Roof Cleaners

Fairview Hardware

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Grindstone Heating & Cooling

Statewide Real Estate

Luzerne Hardware

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Stone Gallery of the Lakes

Spring painting: how do you know who to hire?

The exterior of your house is the first thing people see when they pull up to your property. Whether you’re planning to stay in your home for a good long while or looking to sell, making sure the color looks crisp and clean can go a long way toward making a good first impression.

For the best results, most homeowners hire a professional painter to freshen up or completely repaint the exterior of their home. Here are some tips on how to hire a painter or painting company:

• Consult with at least three different professional painters for your job. And be home for the initial meeting. That way, you can note how much time each contractor takes to assess the condition of your house. The longer it takes, the more realistic the estimate. Even an experienced exterior painter will need more than a quick walk around your house.

• Get estimates. Seek a written estimate from each contractor. It should include a breakdown of labor, material costs, the number of coats of primer and paint, the brand and model of materials, and a detailed description of the amount of surface preparation that will be done.

• Check references and examine past work. Get a list of references from each contractor and call them to find out about their experience with that contractor. Look at recent projects to check the skill of current crews.

• Consider credentials. Membership in a trade or local business group isn’t a guarantee of quality work, but it shows a level of commitment and reliability. You’ll find the licensing information for your state at the Contractor’s license reference site. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau or the Attorney General’s office to learn whether the contractor has a history of unresolved complaints.

• Obtain a complete contract. Make sure this contract includes all key information: the contractor’s name, address, office and cell phone numbers, and license number, plus whatever details were in the estimate. Make sure the contract clearly states what is and isn’t included in the job.

• Get a copy of the painter’s liability and workers compensation insurance certificates.

• Ask for a guarantee. The painter should promise to correct any

chipping, peeling, blistering, flaking, or excessive fading or chalking that occurs within two years after the job is done at no or little cost. If he tells you the paint itself has a warranty, remember that doesn’t include labor, which is a far more costly proposition than material.

• Hold out. Don’t make a large down payment before the job begins. Contractors vary, but 10 to 15 percent is reasonable for a deposit. Before making a final payment, do a walk-around to inspect the house closely to ensure nothing was missed. Don’t make a final payment until the job is complete and you’re fully satisfied with the result.

Credit: Consumerreports.org/ homeimprovements

Is your AC ready for summer?

If you’re like most homeowners, you’ll be reaching for the thermostat and turning on your air conditioner this summer. The last thing you need is for your AC unit to go out during an unexpected heat wave! Here are some things you can do in preparation for those hot summer days.

• Check your current air filter and replace it if necessary.

• Make sure all air vents are open throughout your home to ensure proper ventilation.

• Clear debris from the outdoor unit and check for any leaks or water pooling up around your AC.

• Ensure your thermostat settings

Starting a project

Continued from page 1

on the work to be code compliant.

Respect for our property

A big complaint with homeowners is when workers make a mess and then leave the mess once the work is done. Some track in dirt, leave lunch wrappers lying around, drop nails, leave sawdust and any number of other annoyances. A professional contractor respects your home, and he never leaves a mess for you to clean up.

Overall money savings

Aside from saving money on

are correct.

• Test the cooling function now to see if it’s operating correctly.

Credit: Onehourcomfort.com

Heating and cooling problems? Call Colvins Heating, Wise Heating & Cooling, or Grindstone Heating & Cooling today!

materials and supplies, there’s a bigger way that a professional contractor saves you money. A job well done is money well spent. But a job that’s half-done or one where the work is performed poorly can cost you double in the long run, once you factor in replacements and repairs. A contractor gets it right the first time. And if there’s a problem with his work, you’re not stuck footing the bill to correct it.

You’ve spent time and energy, not to mention budgeting, to bring your home improvement dreams to life. Put it in the hands of a pro, and you won’t be disappointed.

Want to build a fence?

There are numerous compelling reasons to construct a privacy barrier, but most people want one, so they can relax in their garden without worrying about prying eyes.

Do you and your family own any pets, particularly dogs? Many pet owners want a fence around their yard so that their animals may roam freely without worry. You may also want a fence because it looks good. The house with the white picket fence may be something you’ve always desired! Before investing in a project, think about why you want it and what you want to get out of it.

Materials

Wood is the most frequent material for fences, although there are many more options. Wooden fences are standard. However, they may not be the best choice for your needs. It is worth exploring alternatives to wood because it requires regular care and maintenance to stay in good form.

Vinyl is an attractive option for those who want privacy from a fence but do not want to maintain a wood one. The paneling can be kept clean by spraying it with a hose, and it may be molded to resemble wood.

If you do not like wood or vinyl, there are several materials to choose from. Metal chain links, wrought iron, bamboo, or a combination of these materials can all be used.

Your neighbors

A friendly “heads up” goes a long way because nobody likes surprises. Talk to your neighbors about your fence plans and be prepared with information about your property’s boundaries. Remember to abide by the rules and regulations if you reside in an HOA.

Consider your environment

Many homeowners do not think about the climate where they live when choosing fence materials. Still, weather forecasts significantly impact the choice of materials and the installation of the fences they choose. Consider the frost line while installing fence posts in colder locations, and use concrete anchors at least 36 inches deep.

More durable materials are recommended if you live in an area where temperatures are often below freezing. Metal, bamboo, and some types of wood are the most durable materials in cold climates.

The height of the fence

It would be best to decide on the right fence height before making any purchases on fence materials to provide you with a sense of privacy and security. Before you start construction, make sure you know what the zoning regulations are in your area. The style and height of your home may also be restricted if you live in an area governed by an HOA.

Make a budget

Prices vary widely depending on the type of material you choose. Other than the essential components, you will also need to include them in your expenses. Are you using any special hardware? Are you planning on putting up any barriers? When it comes to painting or sealing the material, is it necessary? Consider all aspects of the project and adjust your budget accordingly.

Make A landscape design Plan

Before putting up a fence, take some time to consider your surroundings. Installation of a fence might be complicated by plants, trees, and tree roots. If you do not want to remove any vegetation, you will have to be creative with the fence design. However, this may raise the labor and material costs for most fence companies.

Credit: Volcanobuilders.com

Flooring takes a personal touch

Whether you’re moving into a new home or renovating, the right flooring can make the space. To find the best option, consider these key factors and ten things to know.

Installation location

The room’s location and moisture level: Moistureprone, sub-level basements and humid bathrooms need flooring that can withstand temperature and humidity changes.

Tile and vinyl flooring options work well in these spaces.

Level of traffic: For busy living areas, solid hardwood floors and laminate options are durable and long-lasting, while porcelain tile is especially resistant to scratches and dents. Carpet tiles are easy to install and replace.

Your lifestyle

If pets and kids are a factor: To minimize scratches and make cleaning easy, opt for floors made of tile, hardwood, or cork, which is antimicrobial and sound absorbing.

If allergies are a factor: Hard, flat surfaces that are easy to clean, like

tile and hardwood, are a good choice for those with allergies. The look you like best

The color options: Lighter floors make a room feel spacious and bright, while darker materials add warmth. The size options: Typically, thinner planks work well in traditional spaces, while wider planks are ideal for contemporary and rustic spaces.

Budget

Vinyl and laminate flooring are affordable options. Bamboo planks can be a budget-friendly alternative to hardwood.

Local vendors who specialize in flooring include:

World of Floors in Grayling and Lewiston: 989-348-8934

Woodworker’s Shoppe in Comins: 855-906-5520

Clean your gutters

Cleaning your gutters might seem like a thankless task, but it's a necessary job that should happen at least twice a year. Clogged gutters can lead to water and weight overload, which in turn can stress your home's roof, siding, and gutter supports, leading to leaks. Blocked water can also result in costly rot and winter ice dams.

Fortunately, cleaning out gutters isn't that technical or difficult of a job, especially when it's done regularly. Here are the steps to take to get rid of the debris and keep your gutters clean.

Step 1: Set up your ladder

Follow all safety guidelines when placing your ladder on the ground and using the steps. Consider using a ladder accessory called a standoff to prevent damage to your gutter, as well as a ladder hook to hang a waste bucket or garbage bag near where you are working.

Step 2: Gather safety gear

Wear long sleeves, gloves, and safety glasses to protect your arms, hands, and eyes from debris when cleaning gutters. Use a toolbelt to safely carry a hand shovel. Once you have all your tools and safety gear, climb the ladder.

Step 3: Remove debris from gutter

If you have gutter guards, remove them, or lift them as you work, based on the manufacturer's instructions. Starting at the downspout, use gloved hands to remove large debris like sticks and tree bark from the gutter. Use a hand shovel to scoop away the remaining dirt and debris.

If using garbage bags, you can fill them and drop them to the ground to be picked up later. Alternatively, you can place tarps on the ground

near the edge of the house, dislodge gutter debris, and drop the debris on top of the tarp. Generally, the material removed from gutters can be composted.

Step 4: Rinse gutters

Once the debris is removed, rinse the gutter with a hose, pushing the water toward the downspout and dislodging any dirt from the bottom of the gutter.

Step 5: Check downspout

Make sure that water runs through the downspout and that there are no clogs. Dislodge any debris blocking the downspouts by spraying the hose into the downspout. If this doesn't work and the downspout remains clogged, use a drain snake or pressure washer to work out any debris.

Step 6: Repeat process to clean remaining gutters

Climb down the ladder and move it to the next section of the gutter; empty the garbage pail as needed. Continue cleaning gutters in sections until all debris is removed and water flows through downspouts freely.

Step 7: Check for leaks and make gutter repairs

As you work, make sure to inspect the gutter. When rinsing gutters with water, look for leaks to be patched. Repair with gutter sealant as needed, making sure gutters are completely dry before completing this exterior maintenance task. Pay attention to any gutter pieces that have pulled away from the house. Rusted elements may need to be replaced. Once gutters are clean, consider installing gutter guards to prevent large debris from collecting.

Credit: Better Homes and Gardens

Choosing the right window

When you are investing in new replacement windows for your house, it’s helpful to be familiar with your options. In addition, you will want to be familiar with the window installation procedure. We have compiled a list of 10 things you should know prior to having your windows replaced at home.

Avoid doing it yourself

While you may be fully skilled in handling and doing home improvement tasks, you never know what might be hidden in your walls when you are installing your replacement windows in your house.

Often old framing and trim is rotten, there may be missing insulation or other more serious issues.

Bad measurements cost money

By hiring professionals, you can be sure your windows will be measured correctly. If you measure them yourself and the measurement is off, you will be stuck with windows that don’t fit your opening

Ask for suggestions

Do the new energy-efficient windows have all the safety options you want? Which windows are easy to clean and maintain? What are your

color options? Should you consider a change in style?

Consider a third pane of glass

Double pane glass is now a standard in the replacement window industry. When considering installing new triple pane glass it’s important to think about the extra cost of the windows.

In addition, investing in tripe pane glass for your home will increase the total amount of weight added to the window sashes. However, triple pane windows are very efficient and can help with sound reduction just like laminated glass which is also

considered safety glass.

Proper installation is key

Be sure to understand differences

▪ See CHOOSING A WINDOW on page 10

Maintaining your septic system

The septic system is the most overlooked and undervalued utility in your home. With proper care and maintenance, your septic system can continue to work for you for at least 25 to 30 years.

Septic system maintenance is often compared to automobile maintenance because only a little effort on a regular basis can save a lot of money and significantly prolong the life of the system. Annual inspections of your septic system are recommended to ensure that it is working properly and to determine when the septic tank should be pumped.

A thorough septic system inspection will include the following steps:

• Locating the system.

• Uncovering the manhole and inspection ports.

• Checking connections. Flushing the toilets, running water in the sinks, running the washing machine through a cycle will help to determine if the household plumbing is all going to the system and working correctly.

• Measuring the scum and sludge layers. The sludge layer is the heavier solids that have settled down to the bottom of the tank. The scum layer

is made up of grease and light solids that float near the top of the tank. If the sludge depth is equal to one third or more of the liquid depth, the tank should be pumped.

• Checking the tank and the drain field.

As a rule of thumb, do not dispose of anything in your septic system that can just as easily be put in the trash. Your system is not designed to be a garbage can and solids build up in the septic tank that will eventually need to be pumped. The more solids that go into the tank, the more frequently the tank will need to be pumped, and the higher the risk for problems to arise.

In the kitchen, avoid washing food scraps, coffee grinds, and other food items down the drain. Grease and cooking oils contribute to the layer of scum in the tank and should not be put down the drain.

The same common-sense approach used in the kitchen should be used in the bathroom. Don’t use the toilet to dispose of plastics, paper towels, facial tissues, tampons, sanitary napkins, cigarette butts, and dental floss.

Credit: National Environmental Services Center

Top three post-winter home improvement areas

Caulk the windows

There’s a good chance you did this during the winter to keep heat inside your home. If not, the summer heat will do a number on your AC units. To be a little more energyefficient, consider caulking your windows to seal them up so cool air has a lower chance of escaping your home.

Check the roof

Snow and frigid temperatures can cause some serious problems for your roof without you even knowing it. Poor insulation mixed with icy roofs can cause ice dams. Before you know it, your roof is damaged and causing many issues. Spring is an excellent time to get a ladder up there to assess any damages safely.

Replace siding

Like snow and wind damage your roof, wintery elements can also harm

your home’s siding. If your siding is older, winter moisture could have penetrated the exterior and started to cause some rot.

Once all the snow has melted, you must check all your exterior walls for any repairs. Summer storms might further compromise your siding if you don’t address damages in the spring.

Credit: Atticsandmore.com

Local companies to call for your home improvement needs:

Hall Construction 989-275-8006

Roscommon Glass 989-275-4373

Blue Jay Builders (989) 848-7337

Make your home safer

It’s better to be safe than sorry, which surely applies to your home security! If you want to add more safety features to your home but can’t seem to follow through, make it one of your top priorities this spring. A security camera system will give you peace of mind, providing a whole video surveillance system that’s connected together by a series of security cameras and network video recorders.

See live view, stay informed when an invasion happens and replay

video recordings on your phone and computer.

Put Up Motion Detector Lighting

Motion detector lights are a proven crime deterrent, and standard hard-wired models cost as little as $15. If running a power supply would be difficult, buy ones that run on solar power. The downside is the cost.

Credit: Familyhandyman.com

Choosing a window

Continued from page 8

between Pocket (Insert) and Full Frame installation and decide which one is best for you. Using closed-cell spray foam insulation is an important part of proper window replacement. Understand your warranty. Most manufacturers back their new windows for houses with a warranty to give our clients peace of mind. However, every material is different and will deliver different results. Be sure you understand the differences between warranties.

Clean out that sink trap!

Over time, the sink traps in kitchens and bathrooms become clogged. Disassembling one, cleaning it out and reassembling it will teach you how the pipes go together, while also helping ensure that your sink drains correctly.

If your trap is an old metal assembly, this is a great time to upgrade to PVC.

Traps collect gunk and grime, so the cleanout home improvement process can be messy and foulsmelling, but the education is worth it!

Just as faucet repairs are a great way to begin to learn how plumbing works, drain cleanouts are a low-risk, low-cost way to begin understanding

Local contractors who can assist you:

Bernard Building Center in Hale at 989-728-2211

Highland Building Center in Mio at 989-848-8000

Roscommon Glass at 989-275-4373

drain line structure.

If you didn’t already grab a pair of channel lock pliers for faucet repair, you’ll want to pick some up for this task.

Credit: Familyhandman.com

Home renovation tools you may have forgotten about

Every homeowner needs a basic toolbox filled with the essentials necessary for basic home repair. But beyond this, there are hundreds of additional tools, both hand tools and power equipment, that can be extremely helpful if you begin finding that the basic hammer and screwdriver collection isn't making the grade anymore.

Here are five tools that you might want to add to your homeowner tool kit, once the basics are covered.

Oscillating Multi-Tool

This tool has interchangeable accessories that allow you to sand, cut, scrape, grind, and polish. As a cutting tool, it can cut through almost any material, ranging from plastic to concrete (in limited amounts). The small head and vibrating action allow an oscillating multi-tool to get into spaces where no other tool can fit.

Once you own this tool beware: neighbors who see how useful it is will soon be asking to borrow it all the time.

Lithium-Ion Cordless Tool Set

Most every homeowner has a cordless battery-powered drill, but there is a very good chance that the cordless tools you now own feature outdated battery technology.

If you don't have a collection of tools using lithium-ion batteries, now is the time to invest in them. The older (and very bulky) NiCad (nickel-cadmium) batteries have now

given way to much lighter lithiumion batteries that also have a much longer charge life.

Lithium-ion tool sets usually use 18-volt or 20-volt batteries. Either will be sufficient for general home use. It is best to stay within the same manufacturer's tool family, as this allows the batteries to be shared by all tools in the collection.

Flat Pry Bar

When renovating a house or performing any kind of demolition, you cannot get by without some kind of pry bar or crowbar. A claw hammer's claw may take out nails, but a pry bar can do the same thing plus a multitude of other things. The most versatile form is the flat pry bar, sometimes called by one of the trade names, Wonder Bar (from Stanley) or Gorilla Bar (from Roughneck).

The flat pry bar has claws at both ends for gripping and pulling nails. The flat design makes it easier to wedge under the heads of nails or wedge itself between boards to lever them apart. In addition to pulling nails and serving general demolition functions, a flat pry bar also lets you do non-demolition activities, such as lifting a slab door you're trying

to hang or moving delicate things incremental distances (as when framing a pre-hung door or dealing with replacement windows).

Side-Cutting (Lineman's) Pliers

Along with the basic utility pliers and channel-lock pliers, this is an essential third set of pliers. The cutting edge on the side of the tool's head can chop off anything from electrical wire to small pipes. The grip is the "plier" part. Massive jaws with nubby teeth grip and hold onto almost anything.

Voltage Tester

Experienced homeowners almost always end up doing some electrical repairs— especially after discovering how expensive it is to call a professional electrician for a house call. And the very first electrical tool you should own is a voltage tester.

A voltage tester is a singlepurpose tool that does only one thing: It tells you if there is live current flowing through circuit wires. Learning how to use a voltage tester is one of the most important homeowner skills you can learn.

Voltage testers come in several

types. The classic is a neon circuit tester with two metal probes affixed to a handle with a neon bulb in the tip. Using this type of tester requires a small degree of understanding, since using it requires that you touch one probe to a hot contact and touch the other probe to a neutral or ground wire. As current flows through the tool, it lights up the neon light in the tip of the handle. This is a very simple tool that uses no batteries. Easier to use is a non-contact voltage tester, which senses voltage without even touching any wires. It works by detecting electrical fields and will alert you to the presence of current if you do no more than hold the tip of the tool near an outlet or switch. This is a battery-powered tool, and it is important that you always check its operation before use.

Credit: TheSpruce.com

Check out these local stores for your renovation needs!

Northshore Hardware (989) 422-5300

Luzerne Hardware (989) 826-8050

Highland Building Center (989) 848-8000

Fairview Hardware (989) 848-2700

Bernards Building Center (989) 728-2211

Spring chimney cleaning

As winter draws nearer and you’re getting ready to retire your fireplace for the season, it’s time to start thinking about scheduling your annual chimney cleaning and inspection.

Your fireplace and chimney may look perfectly fine from the outside, but there could be a whole host of issues going on inside that can affect how well the chimney works and the safety of your home.

Routinely taking care of your chimney at the end of the burning season, rather than waiting until fall, will give you plenty of time to address and repair any problems your chimney may have.

Here are some reasons why experts recommend getting your chimney cleaned in the spring!

Chimney fires

Most chimney fires are so small

Heating and cooling tips for homeowners

Heating and cooling systems are some of the most complex units in any home. But homeowners take them for granted unless something goes wrong.

Keep up with routine maintenance

If you don’t already have a proactive maintenance program for your HVAC system, it’s a good idea to schedule semi-annual service with a qualified HVAC service company. They can make sure your system is operating at its most efficient settings and that parts or components are in good working order.

Operate your HVAC system at optimum and stable temperatures

The temperature you set your

thermostat is a matter of personal comfort, but many systems have optimum temperature ranges that ensure they’re using energy efficiently.

Seal your home from drafts

Most people think about stopping air infiltration in colder winter months, but it’s also crucial during AC season.

Any air leak in your home robs your HVAC system of efficiency since that heated or cooled air is lost.

Beef up your installation

Particularly in older homes, inadequate insulation is another factor that can lead to losing heated

▪ See HEATING AND COOLING TIPS on page 14

they go unnoticed. In fact, you may not realize you’ve had one until your next chimney inspection.

The main cause of chimney fires is the buildup of creosote. Creosote can range from brown to black in color and have a consistency that’s light and flaky, sticky and tar-like, or smooth, shiny, and hard. Hard creosote is the most advanced and can cause extensive damage to your chimney, or even lead to a blockage if it’s not removed.

Creosote is highly combustible and if left to accumulate, a chimney fire can and will occur. The very best way to prevent creosote buildup, and ultimately a chimney fire, is to have your chimney inspected and cleaned by a licensed chimney sweep, at least once a year.

Blockages, buildup, and debris

Soot and creosote buildup, bird and critter nests, and other debris can create blockages in your chimney. Having your chimney inspected by a licensed professional will ensure these get taken care of before they cause a major problem, such as blocked airflow, a chimney fire, or a deadly house fire.

Wood, gas, and oil fireplaces, furnaces, and stoves can produce a variety of toxic air pollutants and combustion byproducts, such as smoke, carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, soot, acidic water vapor, tar

fog, and hydrocarbons. A properly functioning chimney ensures these toxic gases are safely carried out of the home.

Leaves, twigs, and other debris can fall into your chimney, creating a blockage. Keep low-hanging trees trimmed away from your chimney and install a chimney cap.

You can easily prevent chimney blockages and ensure the health and safety of your home environment, by maintaining a regular cleaning schedule.

Odors

If you’ve noticed an increase in odor coming from your fireplace, you may have an excessive buildup of

▪ See CHIMNEY CLEANING on page 14

Your spring vegetable garden

If you’re new to gardening, or have been doing it for years, it comes down to three major components: planning, soil, and seeds. Then of course, dealing with the maintenance, pests, and harvest, but you can worry about that later in the season. Getting started can be the most challenging part of any new project, so here are some helpful tips to begin gardening in Michigan:

Start with a garden plan

How much space do you have to grow food? Where do you have sunlight? Whether you only have room for a few container plants or you have raised beds, it is satisfying to grow your own food or herbs. If you’re just beginning to garden, we recommend starting small and growing from there.

Plants that grow well in small spaces or containers:

• Mint, Basil, and other herbs

• Nasturtiums

• Cherry tomatoes

Most importantly, pick plants that you’re excited about that can grow in the space you have.

Good soil

The quality of your harvest is directly related to the quality of your soil. Reach out to your local landscaping or garden supply for some quality soil and compost. Keep in mind that different plants

grow best in certain types of soil and acidity levels, so you may want to get your soil tested before planting.

Seeds or seedlings

Once you’ve made your plan and got the right soil, you can finally get to the fun part: planting! Choose plants that are suitable for your climate, soil, and sunlight. Some plants are suitable to sow directly in the soil once spring arrives. There are Michigan seed companies that are committed to preserving heritage varieties. Depending on your patience, you can also purchase seedlings with a little additional security in the success of your own garden. Here are a few easy to grow options:

• Radishes

• Herbs: Thyme, Basil, Rosemary, Mint

• Flowers: Zinnia, Gomphrena, Nasturtiums

• Greens: spinach, kale, chard

• Tomatoes

• Peas

• Zucchini

Starting a garden may feel like a daunting task, but it’s rewarding work! Credit: Localdifference.org

Caulking 'refresh'

Over time, the caulk that seals seams and gaps can wear out or collect dirt. Whether it’s for aesthetic or practical reasons, re-caulking a shower or bathtub is a great way to freshen up your bathroom while learning an essential home repair

Is your roof ready for spring?

Spring is finally here, and as you start the process of spring cleaning and beautifying your yard, you should take time to check how your roof handled the winter. Winter months can be hard on your home and if your roof has endured any type of damage it could lead to even greater problems in the spring.

Now is the perfect time to make sure your home is ready for a beautiful spring. There are things that you, as a homeowner, can do to ensure your roof is prepared for the spring and summer storms ahead.

Check your attic

Heating and cooling tips

Continued from page 12

or cooled air from the HVAC system.

Use a programmable thermostat

If you don’t have, installing a programmable thermostat one can go a long way in helping reduce energy use when you’re not home.

Change your filters regularly

Changing your HVAC system’s air filters once a month, or as directed by the furnace or filter manufacturer, helps ensure your system has smooth, uninterrupted air flow.

Use window treatments to help control temperature

In cooler months, harness the sun’s free warmth by keeping curtains, blinds or drapes open on south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight in. In the summer, keep window coverings closed during the day to reduce temperatures.

Local heating and cooling contractors include:

Wise Plumbing and Heating in West Branch: 989-345-0680

Colvin’s Plumbing and Heating in Hale: 989-728-5955

Grindstone Heating and Cooling in Fairview: 989-745-4099

Scanning the attic is an easy task you can do on your own. Inspect the underside of the roof deck and rafters in your attic for water stains, black marks or mold and check the insulation in your attic for mildew. Finding mold or mildew could indicate that your roof has a leak.

Trim your trees

Spring is a good time to inspect the trees around your house for branches that are weak or breaking. Any limbs that are at risk of falling onto your roof should be removed to

Chimney cleaning

Continued from page 12

creosote, soot, or another residue. Clearing out any buildup at the end of the burning season will significantly reduce the amount of odor emanating from your fireplace during the spring and summer months while increasing airflow and improving overall air quality.

Damaged flue ties and liner

Broken or damaged flue tiles, a cracked chimney liner, a warped damper, and any other inconsistencies in the interior and exterior of your chimney all contribute to poor chimney performance and, in some cases, will result in a house fire.

Having your chimney inspected at the end of the burning season will alert you to problems your chimney may be experiencing and will give you enough time to get them fixed before the start of the next burning season in the fall.

Wider availability of chimney sweeps

If you’re proactive about scheduling your chimney inspection

skill.

Clumpy, blobby caulk lines are unsightly. Laying a proper bead of caulk is an acquired skill, and you won’t learn it unless you jump in and give it a try.

avoid damage to your roof.

Examine the shingles

Inspect your roof for shingles that look loose, cracked, curling, or missing. Depending on what they find, you might need to have some work done. It is best to let a qualified roofer make any repairs to prevent costly damage or even more extensive repairs in the future.

Inspect key areas

A roofer will check the exterior of your chimney, skylights, and plumbing vents for signs of damage and even wear boots and seals.

For your peace of mind and to avoid possible expensive future maintenance issues, calling an experienced roofer to perform a full roof inspection and maintenance is a good idea. If your roof is damaged by mother nature, look at your homeowner’s insurance policy, some policies may cover the costs of repair.

Credit: tamko.com

during the spring, chances are you’re going to have a much easier time finding a chimney sweep who can accommodate your schedule.

Chimney sweeps tend to be extremely busy during the fall since most people wait to get their chimneys cleaned and inspected right before burning season begins. You can avoid the stress of the busy season altogether by scheduling your cleaning during the springtime!

Being proactive about chimney maintenance will not only keep your fireplace and chimney in good working order but will also keep your home and family safe from potentially life-threatening situations, like fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.

Give yourself the ease of mind you need to enjoy a lovely roaring fire on the very first cold day of the year by making chimney maintenance a priority this spring season!

Local chimney sweep:

American Chimney: 989-239-8754

Landscaping tips for beginners

If you've never tried your hand at designing a landscape before, you might find all the choices you can make a bit overwhelming. It can help to think of a space in your yard as you would a room inside your home. Many of the same principles that guide your room setup inside can guide your designs outside, too. Here are some considerations that will help get your new landscaping project off to a super start.

Determine landscape needs and wants

Make a list of needs and wants. Do your kids need a play space? Do you want to grow vegetables? Would your family enjoy gathering on a patio around a fire pit? Do some very rough sketches of the yard with thoughts of where you want to place things; it's a great organizing principle for landscape design for beginners. They don't need to be master plans (they can just be ideas), you can easily play around with ideas without a lot of time and commitment.

Think about location

which means dinnertime in August could be unpleasantly hot. Wind whistling around a corner will quickly extinguish a fire pit. Those are common mistakes in backyard landscape design for beginners. Your design should consider what the sun and wind do at different times of the day and year before setting out patio furniture.

Spend time in your landscape

Coming to quick conclusions about your yard can lead to choices that don't work in the long term. Live with it for a while before making any changes. After spending more time outdoors, you'll start to see areas where you want to go and sit that you wouldn't have thought of at first. Start small Complete outdoor makeovers can happen in just three days on your favorite home and garden show, but they have a huge crew to handle the heavy lifting, which is not a situation enjoyed by most beginner home gardeners. Part of creating a landscape you'll love is slowly developing a plan and enjoying the process. From your master plan,

less about filling everything up right away.

Find a focal point

Any good garden design has a focal point or series of focal points, and it's an easy principle to put in place. That may be a sculpture or a stunning tree or a series of shrubs. Let the design draw your eyes around the landscape.

Focus on scale and pacing

It's the trickiest principle in landscape design for beginners, but scale and pacing give your yard a pulled-together look. There will be variations in size, shape, and color, with tall plants against a building or in the back of a flowerbed, and paths that lead people through space. Repetition gives a sense of

cohesion, but you also don't want it to be monotonous. An occasional new element is better than having all different elements throughout.

Be

open to change

Unless you're strongly devoted to something, be honest about what's working for you and what's not in your design.

Patience is key to landscape design for beginners. If all that bare space is too much to look at, and the kids and dogs are tracking in mud, rely on temporary solutions. For example, plopping down some annuals, mulch, and fast-growing groundcovers, to cover an area while you're figuring out what you want.

Credit: Betterhomesandgardens.com