2022 Home Construction & Remodeling

Very Peri = very pretty

REPRINTED FROM CEDAR VALLEY HOME & GARDEN MAGAZINE

Pantone’s Very Peri – is the creative marriage between blue and violet red to create periwinkle. It’s the color of the year for 2022. At first glance, it might seem just too pretty, but it’s an amazingly versatile and practical color for home interiors.

Displaying a carefree confidence and a daring curiosity that animates our creative spirit, Pantone describes PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri as “inquisitive and intriguing.”

Blending the faithfulness

and constancy of blue with the energy and excitement of red, this happiest and warmest of all the blue hues introduces an empowering mix of newness.

“As we move into a world of unprecedented change, the selection of PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri brings a novel perspective and vision of the trusted and beloved

‘Violet Wild Meadow,’ Wallsauce.com

CREATIVASTUDIO Sonya Winner Rug Studio, Jewel Sky Rose rug

blue color family,” says Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute.

“Encompassing the qualities of the blues, yet at the same time possessing a violet-red undertone, PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri displays a spritely, joyous attitude and dynamic presence that encourages courageous creativity and imaginative expression.”

“The Pantone Color of the Year reflects what is taking place in our global culture, expressing what people are looking for that color can hope to answer,” added Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute.

Very Peri injects a sense of playful freshness into home interiors, enlivening a space through unusual color combinations. The color is suited to an array of di erent materials, textures and finishes, providing a pop of color, whether introduced through a painted wall, a statement piece of accent furniture, upholstery fabrics or acting as an intriguing and eyecatching accent in a pattern.

Play Veri Peri with shades of white and cream, pink, beige, blue, orange and yellow, gray, green, black and numerous shades of purple, plum and red and blue.

‘Darling Heart’ espresso cups, lavender rose, Bombay Duck

‘Hydrangea Seed Heads’ poster, Desenio

James, ‘Floribunda Periwinkle Meadow’ cushion

Bolvardi Bench, Very Peri purple, Koket

Athena chair, Very Peri Purple, Koket

Gromwell wine glass, OKA US

Gillian Arnold ‘Purple Whisper,’ Charlton Island

BRANDPOINT

Are you ready for a home refresh? The new year is an ideal time to set goals and optimize your home, whether you’re tackling important maintenance tasks, adding comforting elements to cozy up your space, or getting organized.

This year, home improvements that provide longterm benefits are top of mind for homeowners. Here are a few ways to keep your home in tip-top shape and bring you peace of mind.

Minimize clutter and increase safety

People are multitasking at home more than ever, which can often lead to increased clutter. Disorganization can be more than just unsightly mess; it can be a safety hazard. Thoughtful organization improves functionality, saves space and keeps areas clutter-free to reduce the chance of injury. Spaces where organization can have a huge impact include

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closets, mudrooms, the garage, the home office, pantry and laundry room.

“Having a dedicated space to store and contain your items will help you stay organized and improve order and efficiency,” said Andrew Hall, Home Depot Interiors Program Merchant.

By utilizing high-quality installed organization systems, you can reclaim control of your office, keep things tidy and efficient in your laundry room, and easily spot missing ingredients in your new kitchen pantry. According to the National Association of Home Builders, a walk-in pantry is the most-wanted kitchen feature, with 81% of home buyers identifying a walk-in pantry as an essential/must-have (34%) or desirable item (47%).

Decluttering and organizing your home can also help to reduce stress and allow you to streamline daily tasks. For a custom solution that meets all your storage needs and maintains your design aesthetic, consider professional organization. The Home Depot Home Services is available to help you design and build your own custom closet or storage solution with ease and convenience.

Cut energy costs and your carbon footprint

The foundation of home comfort starts with proper heating and cooling. HVAC services include anything related to heating, ventilation and air conditioning, and are key to feeling comfortable at home year-round, no matter the temperature outside.

“Crossing routine maintenance tasks off your to-do list sooner rather than later not only enhances comfort, safety and functionality of your home, but it can also increase the value of your home, reduce

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your energy consumption and save you money,” said Viviane Essex, HVAC Install Merchant with The Home Depot’s Home Services team.

Each spring and fall before you start using your air conditioner, furnace or other heating and cooling systems, you should get a tune-up to prepare your HVAC system for the seasons. By investing in a spring AC tune up and fall furnace tuneup each year, you can save a lot in energy bills by keeping your system operating at peak efficiency. You also can avoid costly repairs by identifying and fixing minor problems before they turn into big ones. While some homes might be due for a new replacement high efficiency furnace or air conditioner, others may simply need maintenance to keep everything operating as it should.

Consult a HVAC service provider from The Home Depot Home Services who can evaluate and take measurements on critical system components, check the performance and safety of the system cleanings, and make necessary repairs. Air circulation is also important to prevent temperature fluctuations throughout a home and save money while reducing energy costs.

Your tune-up technician can check for duct leakage which can cause hot/cold spots and waste energy—duct sealing can help with this. In addition, installing ceiling fans and mounting a programmable thermostat in place of an older model can all help reduce your utility bills and keep you feeling more comfortable at home.

Stay ahead of unexpected expenses

For most people, their home is their biggest investment. A proactive approach to maintenance and repairs helps protect this investment and provides peace of mind. Consider keeping a monthly and annual checklist of maintenance to-do’s and schedule any necessary repairs as soon as possible.

Common monthly home maintenance to-do’s include checking pipes for leaks, verifying air flow and temperature accuracy, changing furnace filters, checking fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and cleaning gutters and walkways of debris. Annual maintenance should include HVAC maintenance, checking window and door seals, verifying fence and deck integrity, updating lighting indoors and out, and landscape maintenance such as trimming trees.

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Custom home builders incorporating MORE GREEN techniques, technology

NATIONAL HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

While production builders build communities by restricting design to a group of preselected home types on lots they have picked and purchased themselves, custom builders tend to build on land owned by the customer and start fresh with each design.

Production builders typically construct a large number of homes throughout the year; these may o er a variety of options, but production builders generally do not use construction plans other than the ones selected by the building firm. Custom builders spend more time on each project and often work on fewer than 10 homes a year

Concern for the environment is growing among U.S. households — and so are energy costs. Because of this, many custom builders are embracing green building techniques. Features like solar panels, water-saving appliances, insulation to improve heating e ciency and the use of renewable or recycled building materials are all popular techniques to improve a home’s e ciency. Custom builders allow buyers to include a wide range of green products and give them the opportunity to weigh each cost and benefit to create a home that is stylish, comfortable, but also eco-friendly.

Custom amenities are also taking a turn to the world of tech. In a world where there’s an app for everything, buyers are beginning to expect a cus-

tom home to do more and be “smarter.” Nowadays you can control many features in your home using a phone, including energy usage, security systems, lighting and even the music playing in each room.

Custom builders are seeing an increasing need to tailor homes to the multigenerational household lifestyle. A recent Pew Research Center study shows that 39% of adults ages 18 to 34 have had to move in with their parents. In the same year, the U.S. Census reported that 4.3 out of 76 million households were made up of at least three generations.

Multigenerational families often build homes that include the traditional mother-in-law suite or even feature a locked-o living space within the home. These apartment-style spaces can have their own kitchenette, full bathroom and living areas to provide a sense of privacy and independence.

As the country grows older and many baby boomers look to retirement, Universal Design features are an ever-growing priority for many custom buyers and builders. UD is used to ensure that features like wider doors, lower countertops and fewer stairs are used to create a home that everyone can enjoy comfortably. An accessible home allows owners to age in place, prolonging their ability to stay in the house independently and can also increase value by opening the market to any future buyer, despite age, stature or ability.

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Welcome nature INTO THE BATH

In the bath, elements such as lighting, wood accents, water features, and fixtures with sleek, minimal lines produce a relaxing bathing experience. Start with a neutral color palette using colors such as sage or tumbled stone for a subtle backdrop. Then, layer more color—such as pops of teal and red—to integrate unique touches that elevate a space, while staying in tune with the overall design.

Simplicity in form

The true value of a design is judged by its effortlessness and repose. A blank canvas allows for the chosen features to shine and can create tranquility within the bath. To achieve simplicity, remove excess and opt for minimalism. Choose fixtures in the bath that are purposeful and add to the overall form of the space. Finally, add touches of warmth through soft lighting and materials to brighten and balance the design, keeping harmony in mind.

Create nature indoors

Bring in elements of the environment throughout the home to fashion a continuous, cohesive design. Establish a landscape-inspired interior by styling live greenery and plants throughout.

rainfall.

Sustainability in design

Elect for green living wherever possible. Intentionally select renewable materials—such as bamboo and cork—and consider the environment at every step, to build a longlasting, timeless abode. Choose fixtures that are at the intersection of sleek,

clean design and conscious sustainability. Pick out WaterSense® Labeled lavatory faucets, showerheads and handshowers to ensure a space that is both luxurious and green. Take the time to curate a sustainable home for a transformative space that exists in harmony with the environment.

BRANDPOINT

Architecture and interior design often take inspiration from the environment. Whether it’s the form of a structure inspired by the outdoors or the incorporation of native plants and natural textiles, organic elements make elegant designs. Re -

nowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s famed vision is rooted in the natural world. Pay tribute to Wright’s enduring legacy by incorporating his values in design decisions—from colors derived from the field and woods to prioritizing simplicity and sustainability in the bath.

Organic materials

Adopt a sophisticated, natural space using principles of organic architecture. Be intentional with every material and design choice to conceive an environment that is functional and balanced. Incorporate organic materials such as wood, concrete or metals into a space for a harmonious expression of nature.

Select fixtures that bring together beautiful features found in nature in a modernized way, such as those from the Frank Lloyd Wright® Bath Collection by Brizo®. The collection draws from his philosophy of organic architecture through elements such as avant-garde water flow and natural wood incorporated into the design. The Raincan Showerhead provides a luxurious experience through the distinctive rush of the Canopy Spray, which activates a built-in light by hydrogenator for a dramatic effect—evoking a sense of

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Today’s reimagined kitchen is smarter, healthier and greener— designed for optimal wellness in the home. Technology is helping homeowners maximize their kitchen’s potential, giving them the ability to do things they never have before.

Tech lifestyle expert and HGTV TV personality Carley Knobloch agrees. “Consumers today have a strong desire for high-tech appliances that not only simplify their home but also allow them to live a more flexible lifestyle,” she says. “This year’s Kitchen and Bath Industry Show unveiled some promising hi-tech appliances making advancements in this space to help homeowners truly make the most of their living spaces.”

Here are some of the top kitchen trends of 2022 that help streamline life and modernize how you can use the kitchen space:

Rethink refrigeration

After spending increased amounts of time at home, many homeowners have decided to add more personalized rooms to their homes, like home gyms, offices, art studios, theaters and more. With that, came the desire for more versatile appliances that could fit into any of these new spaces. Products that

have become increasingly popular are undercounter refrigerators, especially those that can blend easily into cabinetry. Undercounter refrigerators offer added convenience to the home, whether you need extra space for entertaining or want to keep certain cosmetics or toiletries chilled in your master suite.

Those aren’t the only refrigerators getting upgrades, the French door category also continues to be a top trend in kitchens throughout the country, but limited sizing was previously an issue for some homeowners. Now, the first-ever 48-inch French door refrigerator from Signature Kitchen Suite is opening this option to more people than ever, bringing beauty and functionality into any luxury kitchen.

Ovens with options

Warmer weather is just around the corner, meaning entertaining season is coming back in full force. The good news is you don’t need a huge kitchen to be a pro host. Many kitchen appliances today offer more functionality in one product so you can get more cooking done in one convenient space.

For instance, the latest ranges now feature double-oven designs, so you can bake or roast two dishes at different temperatures at once

in separate oven cavities. LG’s new slide-in range delivers the most when it comes to multifunctional cooking with several cooking modes including ProBake Convection— the gold standard in convection technology, for even baking on every rack, every time. Plus, Air Fry helps you turn out crispy flavor to feed a crowd while Air Sous Vide locks in moisture and aroma to deliver meats, fish and poultry that are tender, juicy and consistently delicious.

For added convenience, the microwave easily connects to the range for automatic ventilation and lighting when cooking on the range’s cooktop, while InstaView technology allows you to check on the cooking progress by simply knocking twice on the glass to illuminate the interior.

More than a microwave

Does your microwave oven cook unevenly, where some parts of foods are overcooked, and others are still cold? If so, it’s time for an upgrade. Modern smart microwaves cook foods quickly and evenly with advanced technology that provides delicious results and added features that complement the way you use your kitchen.

Thanks to the slide-out “ExtendaVent,”

your cooking atmosphere is kept clear and clean as it reduces the presence of smoke and lingering odors in the kitchen. Plus, cleaning has never been easier with the EasyClean interior that features a special coating to prevent food and grease from sticking.

Integrated recipes

Imagine scanning a recipe, having it pop-

ulate your grocery cart so you can order the foods you need and then having your smart appliance know exactly how to cook those foods to perfection. This is now a reality thanks to the new “ThinQ Recipe” service that works with several of the cooking appliances, like LG’s new range and over-therange microwave, and it can be easily accessed via an app. Now you can search, plan,

purchase and cook delicious recipes whenever you want from the comfort of your kitchen. The new tool even o ers over 10,000 shoppable recipes via Walmart and Amazon Fresh delivery services. Plus, with the Scan to Cook feature, you can easily scan the UPC barcode on select ready-made meals to remotely set temperature and cooking time.

NATIONAL HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

Millions of people decide to remodel their homes each year. Perhaps it’s that epiphany one morning as you stand in line to use the only bathroom in your home. Or when you opened a kitchen cabinet and the

cabinet door came o in your hand.

Whatever the reason, it may be time to consider a home remodel. The reasons for home remodeling are as varied as the projects we undertake.

Some of these include:

 Adding more space

 Upgrading cabinets, counters, appliances and fixtures

 Creating a floor plan that’s customized for your lifestyle

 Improving energy e ciency with new windows, doors, insulation, and climate control systems

 Increasing the resale value of your home

Where to begin

The first step is to develop an idea of what you want to do with your home remodel. Write a prioritized list of your needs and wants. There are many sources to find design ideas for your home remodeling project. Look at magazines and websites and collect pictures of homes or remodeling projects you like. The more clearly you can envision the project and describe it on paper, the better prepared you’ll be in making your decision.

Think about tra c patterns, furniture size and placement, colors, lighting and how you expect to use the remodeled space. If your decision to remodel involves creating better access for someone with limited mobility, you may want to consider

contacting a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist.

You may want to improve home eciency and hire a professional remodeler for green home remodeling. These projects include replacing windows and doors, upgrading heating and cooling systems, adding insulation, and other remodeling to make the home more energy-e cient, easier to maintain, and comfortable.

Figure out how much money you have to spend on the home remodeling job, furnishings, landscaping or any other cost you might incur.

Are you a DIYer?

Once you have created your list of priorities, you’ll need to decide how to accomplish that vision. For the handyman or woman, a do-it-yourself project can be both rewarding and cost-e ective. However, more than 30% of all jobs home remodelers perform come from failed DIY projects.

Hiring a professional remodeler is the best way to ensure your project’s success. These remodelers are dedicated to maintaining the highest integrity and standards in the industry.

FRESH & LIGHT

Light and neutral colors are not “so last year,” after all.

If you prefer the freshness and serenity that lighter hues bring into your home over dark, moody trendsetting colors, take a look at the selection of “colors of the year” from popular paint companies like Behr, Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore.

Behr’s “Breezeway,” a whisper-soft minty bluegreen is “inspired by the earth’s beauty and mimics naturally stunning sea glass found on the shore of salty beaches,” according to Behr.

“Whether it’s lacing up our hiking boots, or breaking out the gardening tools, Breezeway inspires us to fully embrace the hobbies or adventures, both near and far, that excite us,” Erika Woelfel, vice president of color and creative services at Behr Paint Company. “We look forward to a color that welcomes a hopeful sense of renewal, restoration, and healing.”

It’s also all about starting the year on an optimistic note — and bringing that ease and lightness into your home. And if you want to experiment a little, the color also works well on exterior features (like your front door).

The color can work in a variety of styles, whether you choose a coastal vibe, a modern look, or a vintage aesthetic.

The Behr 2022 Color Trends Palette includes 20 hues that complement the color of the year and also work well together. These include Whisper White, a flexible neutral, and Perfect Penny, an earthy terra cotta.

“Evergreen Fog” SW 9130 is a nourishing gray-green from Sherwin-Williams. After years of cool neutrals and bold jewel tones, Evergreen Fog ushers in a new era of nostalgic mid-tones.

“Evergreen Fog is a sophisticated wash of color for spaces that crave a subtle yet stunning statement shade,” said Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams. “Evergreen Fog inspires us to begin again and is a great choice for modern interiors and exteriors.”

Evergreen Fog is a soothing, subtle shade that is easy to use in every part of the home, indoors or out.

“The familiar, comfortable nature of Evergreen Fog shines as a reassuring backdrop and freshens up any space,” Wadden said. “Create depth and texture with a mix of natural-looking textiles. Add a little gleam with a fusion of metals — champagne gold, warm brass, or inky black.”

Pair it with other SW organic neutrals such as Shoji White SW 7042, Accessible Beige SW 7036 and Woven Wicker SW 9104, and tonal luxurious hues such as Urbane Bronze SW 7048, Über Umber SW 9107 and Bakelite Gold SW 6368.

Benjamin Moore chose “October Mist” 1495, a gently shaded sage that quietly anchors while encouraging creative expression through color. Much like the green stem of

a flower, October Mist creates a canvas for the imagination to blossom.

“As the spaces in our homes continue to evolve, we uncover more opportunities to express our individuality and leverage the power of color to design environments that serve different functions and styles,” said Andrea Magno, Benjamin Moore Director of Color Marketing & Development. “October Mist 1495 and the corresponding Color Trends 2022 palette reflects an effortless harmony of colors, while inspiring unique combinations for any paint project.”

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These improvements enhance an evolving lifestyle

BRANDPOINT

Home is more than just where the heart is. Whether creating an office, a socially distant gathering space or making room for a loved one to move in, people are using their homes in ways they may never have before.

Experts predict homeowners will focus on upgrades and home improvements that fit this evolving lifestyle. In fact, the Leading Indicator for Remodeling Activity from Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies predicts a steady and significant rise in remodeling projects that is projected to reach $401 billion of annual spending by the third quarter of 2022.

Refresh the staircase

You probably don’t spend much time using staircases compared to the rest of the house, so staircase design isn’t likely top of mind.

However, if you have dated carpet on your stairs, you have a prime opportunity to revamp a central component of your home for a small investment. It could be as simple as installing new treads, selecting new paint for the walls and maybe a new stain on the trim. To go the extra mile, local ironworkers are happy to custom fabricate a handrail. If you have kids in the house or older family members moving in, keep safety in mind on stairs to help them navigate your home with ease.

Modernize the bathroom

It’s amazing how the right paint and new hardware can revitalize a row of sad old cabinets. With no major construction involved, you can transform your bathroom vanity over the course of a weekend. Select new hardware that looks bold and stately (think chrome bars, not little plastic knobs) to match the tones in your countertop, and remove the cabinets and give them a fresh, neutral shade. If you’re over the white-on-white bathroom look, try a dramatic dark

finish that will make your new hardware and fixtures really pop.

Install new flooring

Flooring is quite literally the foundation of design, so it must strike a blend of fashion and function. Research flooring with a good combination of durability and timeless aesthetics, like the Duravana hybrid resilient flooring, a waterproof and eco-friendly product exclusive to LL Flooring. Duravana’s range of styles are designed to replicate the natural color, grain and texture of real hardwood, with more unique plank patterns than traditional vinyl plank or laminate. Plus, its easy-click installation makes it DIY friendly. Learn more at LLFlooring.com.

Organize the mudroom

A little bit of organization in an entryway can make a huge difference in the functionality and flow

of the home. Start with simple shoe and boot storage, like a DIY bench or wall rack, so those items don’t spill out to hallways and bedrooms. Wall hooks are helpful for when guests arrive. And if you don’t have a true mudroom, a bit of wall-mounted storage can make even the slimmest entryway feel intentional and inviting.

Define outdoor spaces

Adding a dedicated lounge to your back or side yard can feel like adding a whole room’s worth of square footage to your house. It could be as easy as a new patio set and a fire pit with some gravel or simple flagstone landscaping. Gabion baskets, framed with goodlooking lumber, can be made into a simple divider or group seating. Pergolas with climbing plants continue to be popular. This outdoor space can become a year-round retreat that everyone will love.

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5 easy ways to refresh your home

Spending the winter months indoors with many cooped up with their pets, living spaces can quickly lose their luster. There are plenty of ways, however, to revamp your home and the good news is you don’t have to spend a lot of time or money to do it. Here are five ways to give your home a fresh start.

Update your living space

If you’re ready for a new look, adding some throw pillows is the best way to elevate your home’s décor. Yes, they are soft and comfortable but, they aren’t just fluff. By adding throw pillows in various sizes and incorporating new colors, you’ll be amazed how it transforms your living room into a cozy oasis for your human and furry family.

Freshen the air

Adding a fresh scent to your indoor air provides a welcoming atmosphere. There are multiple ways to give yourself and your family a breath of fresh air. Try simmer pots with seasonal scents, candles or diffusers, and carpet deodorizer made from baking

soda and essential oils, especially if you have pets. Cat owners, in particular, who are looking to maintain freshness while spending less time maintaining the litter box can turn to new Fresh Step Outstretch. The cat litter lasts 50 percent longer and offers superior odor control with Febreze freshness and 6x activated carbon, allowing you to

change the litter box less often.

Bring

the Outdoors In

Houseplants are another excellent way to breathe life into your surroundings. Plants placed throughout the home can brighten and energize a room. There are varieties of plants that need a ton of sun, while others

prefer shade or there are 50/50 mixes. So, seek varieties that work with your aesthetic, lighting and space. In your quest to find the perfect plant, don’t overlook the planter. Go bold with patterns or colors to liven up a bland space that could use a punch of pizazz.

Accent walls

A fresh coat of paint can completely change the look of your home and freshen up dated living spaces. Choose a complementary or accent color to go on one wall with neutral colors on the other walls to perk up a room. Don’t want to paint? Easyto-apply, removable wallpaper comes in a variety of colors, textures and patterns. Get creative with patterns and designs from jungle scenes to floral to geometric or retro. The best part is that you can remove it easily when you no longer enjoy it.

So, add a home refresh to your New Year’s resolution list and use those winter months wisely to refresh your home with a brighter, airier outlook.

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BRANDPOINT

One way to improve and maintain a healthier indoor living environment is to install clean insulation throughout critical areas of a home, including the walls, roof and floors. While there are vari-

ous types of insulation materials on the market, expanded polystyrene (EPS) offers incredible performance capabilities in a safe package, making it an ideal option for health-conscious homeowners.

Here are three tried-and-true ways that EPS insulation helps improve IAQ levels at home.

1. Does not release toxic contaminants into our homes

First and foremost, EPS has a clean composition and is one of the few types of building insulations that doesn’t experience off-gassing, meaning it will not leak dangerous contaminants into the air. On the other hand, some competitive insulation products employ blowing agents during the manufacturing process to achieve an abnormally high Rvalue.

This can be appealing to many homeowners because typically, the higher an insulation’s Rvalue, the stronger its thermal performance and ability to provide a more comfortable living environment. However, these blowing agents will diffuse from the cellular structure of the material over its service life, steadily releasing a host of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air.

To our benefit, EPS offers reliable thermal performance and does not utilize blowing agents. Because the insulation doesn’t experience any off-gassing, homeowners can enjoy cleaner air at home.

2. Creates a nearly airtight home that keeps allergens out Installed across the walls, roof and floors of our homes, EPS can help support continuous insulation (ci)—a building concept that results in a nearly airtight structure. Generally, airtightness can be compared to the zipper on a down jacket. On a mountain top, the down jacket is essentially worthless if the zipper is not zipped.

Like a down jacket and its zipper, panels of EPS can effectively create an air-impermeable building envelope. Without the blanket of EPS insulation, harmful outdoor air pollutants such as vehicle exhaust and smoke may unknowingly infiltrate our homes. Recognizing the importance of a

nearly airtight home is one of our strongest weapons in the pursuit of healthier IAQ.

3. Maximizes the performance of HVAC systems to filter and dehumidify the air we breathe Utilizing EPS across the building envelope will support a tight home and, in turn, maximize the performance of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems put in place. In application, an effective ventilation system will usher fresh air into a home in controlled amounts and exhaust indoor contaminants to the outside. By limiting air exchange to controlled ventilation systems, we can breathe cleaner, healthier air at home. An efficient ventilation system will also dehumidify incoming air to mitigate the risk of mold growth in wall cavities, floorboards and other damp, dark places. With properly functioning mechanical ventilation, there’s no need to worry about toxic mold curtailing IAQ levels.

RETAINING WALLS provide outdoor seating

BRANDPOINT

Humpty Dumpty had the right idea when he sat on a wall, as segmental retaining wall (SRW) systems can be used to create beautiful, versatile outdoor seating solutions. Many businesses expanded outdoor seating out of necessity over the past two years, and retaining walls were up for the challenge. Homeowners also prefer retaining walls for landscaping projects such as seat walls around a fire

pit or to create a raised patio to replace a deck. Renowned for the ability to retain earth to prevent erosion and tame slopes to create buildable sites, SRWs, including the VERSA-LOK Retaining Wall System, are beautiful, durable and low-maintenance open-air seating solutions.

Dining al fresco

A beautiful outdoor living space is a wise home investment, and

it’s also become a necessity for hospitality businesses. Many facilities lacking patios built temporary or permanent outdoor spaces for guests during the pandemic. According to the National Restaurant Association, outdoor dining is vital to the industry’s post-pandemic survival and expanding outdoor dining remains a critical need in replenishment of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund federal grant program.

After purchasing a tavern in Wisconsin, Darryl Holley hired Ziegler’s Landscapes by Design to build an outdoor entertainment area just a few weeks before the pandemic required temporary closure of the business. Landscaping was deemed an essential business and work continued. Ziegler’s created a low freestanding retaining wall that serves as seating for lawn game spectators and concertgoers. “The only regret we have is that we didn’t make the patio

bigger,” said Holley. “Live music outside draws a lot of people.”

Homeowners in Stillwater, Minnnesota, wanted to replace an aging wooden deck while preserving the view of their woods. “With a raised patio design, you have many more design options,” said Andrew Lofboom, a landscape designer with Villa Landscapes. “We used VERSA-LOK to build the support for a paver patio on top. The cost of a raised patio can be less than replacing a deck, and it affords homeowners the option to expand in the future, such as adding an outdoor kitchen or seat walls.”

Lofboom chose the VERSALOK Standard retaining wall system because it makes both design and installation easier. With a mechanical pinning system and no hollow cores to fill, VERSALOK is renowned for versatility, durability and flexibility for creating curves, columns, multiangled corners and tiers needed for stunning outdoor designs.

Sporting views

SRWs are surprisingly economical for stadium, stage and outdoor classroom seating at schools, parks and sporting venues. An amphitheater at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls was renovated with a VERSALOK Mosaic retaining wall system chosen to replace crumbling limestone seating on the slope across from the bandshell. The elements had taken a toll on the amphitheater, built in 1972 of local limestone. “Natural stone was out of our budget, so we went with VERSA-LOK,” said Joe McIntosh, a grounds supervisor.

Made for seating

While SRWs are best known for site development, erosion control and transitioning slopes in a landscape, they also are a solid solution for outdoor seating. From sitting walls and raised patios to stadiums and tiered, bermed seating, retaining walls get the job done beautifully and on budget.

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command away from your favorite services. The C2 series boasts razor-thin bezels around the screen, with a sleek design allowing it to mount closer to the wall. Compatibility with HDMI standards allows you to connect it to external devices like gaming consoles and Sound Bars for a complete viewing experience.

3. Surround yourself with life-like sound

infused water to break down heavy soiling. Steam during the drying cycle and Dynamic Heat Dry improves the drying process, resulting in sparkling dishes and glassware.

Love to entertain or have a large family? The adjustable third rack offers more space, to save time and water by washing fewer loads. The

4 top tech innovations to make your life better

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Every year, groundbreaking innovations premiere at the Consumer Technology Association’s CES conference in Las Vegas, showcasing consumer technology products that aren’t just the latest trends, but can make a real difference in your life. And 2022 is even more exciting than previous years, highlighting products that address today’s needs and desires to enhance your home life.

For example, LG Electronics is unveiling breakthrough technology in home appliances and home entertainment at CES again this year. Here are four new products from LG that will make a big impact on your daily life.

1. Take a deep breath

As cleanliness is top of mind, the LG PuriCare AeroTower Air Purifying Fan combines the benefits of an

air purifier with the comfort and functionality of a cooling fan and heater—all within a streamlined, stylish design created for all living spaces.

The AeroTower delivers year-round air purification with three modes of 360-degree air flow so users can enjoy cleaner, more comfortable air that is whisper quiet. With its innovative “Air Valley” technology, the AeroTower creates a powerful airflow that closely resembles a soothing, natural breeze for customized, whole-room purification. Its UVnano technology kills bacteria, while its True HEPA Filtration system captures 99.97% of six different particles for even cleaner, purer air.

2. Level up your home theater

LG’s critically-acclaimed LG OLED TVs keep pushing the envelope year after year.

For movie buffs, sports fans and avid gamers alike, the 2022 LG OLED C2 Series will optimize your viewing experience with criticallyacclaimed picture quality that delivers realistic images, perfect blacks and rich colors along with lifelike sound and advanced AI features. LG’s new α9 Gen 5 AI processor and cutting-edge AI technologies combine to optimize your picture quality for your preferred entertainment genres. The TVs 120fps Hi Frame Rate delivers your favorite fast-paced content—like sports or video games—with more dynamic, realistic imagery.

The LG Magic Remote connects you to built-in voice assistants including Amazon Alexa and the Google Assistant and many of the most popular streaming services so you’re always just a press or voice

And if you really want to create the most immersive home theater or gaming room experience, pair your LG OLED TV with the new LG S95QR Soundbar. With its perfectly balanced highquality sound, this sound bar introduces a world’s first upward-firing center channel for clearer audio, and its speaker unit configuration maximizes multi-directional sound projection. The speakers on each side of the soundbar are angled toward the front, and the new sixchannel rear speaker layout helps optimize the surround sound effect for the best multi-dimensional, cinemaquality audio. The innovative AI Sound Pro mode also brings content-optimized audio so you can experience powerful, immersive sound effects for enhancing action movies or video games.

4. Washing dishes will never be the same

Let’s face it, nobody likes doing dishes, especially after an evening at home with family and friends. Fortunately, LG’s latest dishwasher innovation—the Wi-Fi Enabled Top Control Dishwasher with QuadWash Pro and Dynamic Heat Dry— offers the ultimate cleaning experience, delivering superior clean in just one hour while eliminating the wasteful need to pre-rinse. TrueSteam penetrates caked-on foods at the start of the cycle, and QuadWash Pro technology uses high-pressure jets to power-clean from multiple angles while soaking dishes with micro bubble-

dishwasher also uses the latest technology by connecting to LG’s ThinQ, to help you stay on top of household chores by operating remotely and using AI to automatically order dishwasher detergent before you run out.

Check out all the ways the latest technology can improve your everyday life at LG.com.

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lG Electronics has unveiled breakthrough technology in home appliances and home entertainment.

When it’s time to build a new home or remodel your existing home, it’s important to find a reputable and dependable home contractor so your project is a success. Do your research, read reviews and check references, says the National Home Builders Association.

Look for these qualities:

1. Focus

Professional: Puts clients first and will work with you to make sure your goals are feasible and that the project can get done on time and on budget. Treats customers, their families and their homes with respect.

Amateur: Focuses on finishing the job as quickly as possible, with little regard for your family’s personal needs and schedule.

2. Livability

Professional: Wellequipped to deal with the No. 1 threat to livable remodeling — dirt and dust. Protects you

and your family from annoying and potentially dangerous air particles by using the most effective tools and processes for dust elimination, such as the BuildClean Dust Control System.

Amateur: Doesn’t have a proactive strategy to manage indoor air quality and jobsite dust.

3. Ethical Professional: Proactively addresses challenges headon, immediately notifying you of an unexpected issue.

Amateur: Ignores problems uncovered during the project in order to keep it moving. Leaves behind things like hidden mold, leaky pipes or structural issues, putting the health and safety of your family at risk.

4. Risk

Professional: Has a license, certifications and insurance. Obtains all necessary permits, protecting you against unsafe work and legal issues. Guarantees their work.

vides an opportunity to spot items which may need to be corrected or adjusted, learn about the way your new home works and ask questions about anything you don’t understand.

Often, a builder will use the walk-through to educate buyers about:

„ The operation of the house’s components.

„ The buyer’s responsibilities for maintenance and upkeep.

„ Warranty coverage and procedures.

„ The larger community in which the home is located.

may discover a gouge in a counter top after move-in, and there is no way to prove whether it was caused by the builder’s workers or the buyer’s movers. Many builders ask their buyers to sign a form at the walk-through stating that all surfaces have been inspected and that there is no damage other than what has been noted on

the walk-through checklist. Ask a lot of questions during the walk-through and take notes on the answers. Don’t worry about asking too many questions. That is how you learn. It is important to view the walkthrough as a positive learning experience that will enhance the enjoyment of your new home.

Amateur: Unaware of — or doesn’t care about — building codes, required permits and health and safety regulations. Leaves you liable for any improper work, mistakes and in a potentially dangerous situation.

5. Value

Professional: Communicates with you to establish an estimate and negotiate a fair contract and payment schedule.

Amateur: Underbids a project by thousands of dollars and is likely to cut corners to meet the budget or overwhelm you with costly change orders.

For more information on selecting a professional contractor, visit: livableremodeling.com.

Before you go to settlement on your purchase of a newly constructed home, you and your builder will do a walk-through to conduct a final inspection, says the National Home Builders Association.

This walk-through pro-

Part of your walk-through will be learning about maintenance and upkeep responsibilities. Most new homes come with a one-year warranty on workmanship and materials. However, such warranties do not cover problems that develop because of failure to perform required maintenance. Many builders provide a booklet explaining common upkeep responsibilities of new home owners and how to perform them.

Should a warranted problem arise after you move in, the builder is likely to have a set of warranty service procedures to follow. Except in emergencies, requests for service should be in writing. This helps to ensure that everyone clearly understands the service to be performed.

Create a checklist when inspecting the house. The list should include everything that needs attention, and you and your builder should agree to a timetable for repairs. Builders prefer to remedy problems before you move in because it is easier to work in an empty house. Some items may have to be corrected after move-in.

It is important that you be thorough and observant during the walk-through. Examine all surfaces of counters, fixtures, floors and walls for possible damage carefully. Sometimes disputes arise because a buyer

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