Greer Citizen Home and Garden 2015

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015 PAGE LABEL THE GREER CITIZEN 1

&&&&&2015

Home &&Garden

The Greer Citizen

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Planting a vegetable garden can be a worth-while endeavor for anyone who has an available patch of land. Gardens need not take up much space, and even apartment dwellers without yards can plant small gardens in containers they place on terraces or window boxes.

Although establishing a garden is easy enough, beginners may make a few mistakes along the way. Those who already have paved the garden way before can o er novice gardeners some worthwhile tips.

One of the rst decisions novice gardeners must make is which crops to grow. This will help deter-mine how much land you will need and which supplies or soil amendments will be necessary. Ac-cording to The Old Farmers Almanac, a common error for beginners is planting too much and more than anyone could ever consume, so its best to start small and be proud of that small garden.

Plants such as peppers, squash and tomatoes produce throughout the season, so you may not need many plants to provide for your needs. Less

proli c plants may require a greater investment to produce a similar yield.

Locate your garden in an area that gets ade-quate sun. Many vegetables need between six and eight hours of sunlight per day. Without enough light, they will not bear as much and could be susceptible to insect infestation. Vegeta-bles and fruit also need plenty of water because

theyre not very drought-tolerant, so keep gardens close to a water source.

Another good tip is to locate the garden near the house or barbecue grill. This way you can easi-ly harvest fresh produce and use it when cooking.

Soil preparation is also key. Till the soil and re-move debris like rocks, sticks and hard clumps of dirt. Work with organic material, such as manure

or compost. Apply mulch after planting to help maintain moisture levels in the soil.

Plant the tallest crops at the rear of your garden bed. Work forward with shorter crops. Try to leave a foot or more between planting rows.

Its easy to get a garden started and enjoy fresh food for many months to come.

Vegetable garden tips for beginners

Choosing seeds that sprout quickly can hold the attention of children who are new to gar-dening. Beans, peas, sun ower seeds, and bell pepper seeds are easy to start and germinate quickly. Chard, lettuce, spinach, and mustard, germinate in three to ve days. Herbs, such as basil and parsley, also sprout fast.

Plant seeds in a way that allows youngsters to monitor the progress of growth. Use a transpar-

ent container, such as rinsed-out glass jars and canisters, to house the plant. Once the seed-lings grow larger, they can be transplanted into di erent containers.

Edible plants often make good choices for chil-dren because kids can reap the rewards of their e orts. Herbs can be sprinkled onto food, or fruits and vegetables can be grown in contain-ers and then served at mealtime.

KID-FRIENDLY TIPS

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With these renovationsHomeowners choose renovation projects for a variety of rea-

sons. Although many improvements are made to increase func-tionality and comfort of a home, several others are seen as worth-while investments. These investments can add up to a higher re-sale value when the time comes to sell a home.

Certain projects have a history of providing a greater return on homeowners investments than others. The following renovation tips can add beauty to your home and generate great returns when you put the home up for sale.

Invest in your kitchen. Kitchen remodels are a safe bet when it comes to putting money into improving a home. Residents tend to spend a great deal of time in the kitchen, but a dated, poorly functioning kitchen can detract from the value of a home, even if the rest of the home is in good shape. Its possible to recoup be-tween 60 and 120 per-cent of your kitchen re-model investment, es-pecially if the kitchen matches up well with the rest of your home. Homeowners should know that a deluxe renovation may not be necessary, as relatively moderate improvements can create a whole new look for a kitch-en.

Look to paint. One of the least expensive improvement mate-rials, but one that has a signi cant impact, is paint. Neutral, mod-ern colors can easily liven up any space. If you paint with low-VOC paint, you also can advertise an eco-friendly home, which is very desireable these days.

Put in another bathroom. Multiple bathrooms are an attrac-tive selling point, particularly in older homes that may not have been equipped with more than one bathroom. Finding extra space for a bathroom can be tricky, but consider closets, areas un-der stairs or even taking some space away from another room. Popular home-improvement television channel HGTV advises that half-bathrooms require at least 18 square feet of space, while full baths need 30 to 35 square feet for a stand-up shower or bathtub.

Renovate the HVAC system. Aesthetic improvements arent the only ones that add value to a home. Many home buyers are eager to purchase a home that has a new heating and cooling system, as buyers understand that furnaces and air conditioning units are substantial investments that can last for years. Other im-provements, such as adding attic insulation or replacing older

windows and doors with more energy e cient options, also are smart bets.

Add illumination to rooms. A dark home is a dreary home. Adding light can mean including more overhead and accent lighting. Under-cabinet task lighting is a nice touch. Inclusion of skylights and sun tubes can bring natural light into rooms that may not have south- or west-facing windows.

Put a deck addition outdoors. Outdoor living spaces have be-come more desireable, especially as the staycation has grown in popularity. Decks and patios can make backyards more appeal-ing. The scope of your investment will depend on the size of the deck and design. Doing the work yourself can cut the cost of decks in half, but only if you have the speci c tools or experience to tackle such a project.

Improve curb appeal. Adding attractive landscaping and freshening up the entryway to a home can add considerable val-ue to your home, as buyers judge homes by their exteriors. Com-pletely renovated interiors may never be seen if buyers pass up your home because of a less attractive exterior. Classy, subtle changes, like well-placed shrubbery and a green lawn, can work wonders. An inviting front door and well-lit entryway also add curb appeal to a home.

Before making improvements, homeowners should determine if a given project will provide a solid return on their investment.

Home

Add value to your home

Multiple bathrooms are an attractive selling point, particularly in older homes that may not have been equipped with more than one bathroom.


Many homeowners take up gardening to trans-form their homes with beautiful owers and foli-age, while others do so to yield fresh fruits and vegetables. But gardening can be more than just a weekend hobby. In fact, it may be especially bene- cial for homeowners to surround themselves with more plants and natural decor, whether in the yard or in the home.

Studies have indicated that gardening can be good for the mind and body. In addition to im-proving mood and reducing stress, plant life and gardening also may help people have a more hopeful outlook on life. If reaping the bene t of a beautiful landscape is not reason enough to get into gardening, elevating your mood and coping with depression or illness may be even further motivation to start developing your green thumb.

Home-design trends seem to be following suit, o ering individuals more opportunities to sur-round themselves with potentially therapeutic plants. Explore these emerging and established garden dcor trends to try in and around your home.

Living wall planters: A living wall planter can add greenery to any dcor with-out taking up oor or table space. Ideal for outdoor structures, these planters also can be used indoors if you safeguard against leaks and dripping. A living wall planter is a framed device that houses plants in a man-ner that enables them to be vertically mounted to a wall surface. While there are commercially avail-able models, you can create your own design and paint or stain it to match the existing dcor. Use a soil-free potting substrate to avoid the mess that regular soil may create.

Combining sh with gardening: Enjoy the best of two relaxing worlds by installing a water feature in your yard. Garden retailers o er ready-made kits that can make fast work of establishing a pond or other water feature in the backyard. Otherwise, there are plenty of water garden companies and installers who can suggest a design and put in your desired water features. Add sh suitable for outdoor life to your pond. These include koi and certain gold sh varieties. Game sh are discour-aged because they can destroy pond plants. If an

outdoor pond is more maintenance than you desire, consider an indoor aquarium with a combination of sh and live aquarium plants.

Creative furniture designs: Maybe youre a person who appreciates the unique and whimsical? Tables, benches and chairs can be built with planting channels that enable you to have greenery and garden dcor in one piece. Envision a picnic table with a cutout down the center for a thin row of plants or decorative grasses. This is a project the entire family can get behind, as the more creative ideas the better.

Improved outdoor lighting: People who like to spend time in their gardens and yards may not want to be limited by sunrise and sunset. By incor-porating di erent lighting sources, you can create

a retreat that is welcoming at any hour. Although ood lights and overhead lights can illuminate a space, consider ambient and decorative lighting to create the desired ambiance.

Functional re pits and places: A blazing re creates a cozy spot to gather on chilly evenings,

but re pits and re-places also can be used as impromptu cooking spots for smores or frankfurt-ers on a stick. You can purchase a stand-alone re pit from any number of retailers or build your own with patio pavers and re bricks to line the in-terior of the re pit. Outdoor replaces

require more work, and you want to hire a mason to ensure proper

installation.

Enjoyable yard additions: While plants and seating may take center stage, some people still want to have fun in their yards. Theres an increased demand for yard designs and dcor that can put the fun in backyard living. Bocce courts, ring- or horseshoe-toss setups, as well as bean bag-toss boards, can be incor-porated into land-scape designs, giving you yet another rea-son to spend a few hours in the great outdoors, where you can experience a few healthy laughs in the process.

Gardening and spending time out-

doors are great hob-bies and may even boost your mood. Homeown-ers can explore the popular trends in garden d-cor and natural elements that they can enjoy in-side and outside of their homes.

Home & Garden

Garden-inspired decor brightens spaces, mood

cooking spots for smores or frankfurt-ers on a stick. You can purchase a stand-alone re pit from any number of

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Summer is a season for landscaping, and home-owners who live in regions that get especially hot in the summertime often worry that their lawns wont make it through the dog days of summer looking lush. But lawns dont have to succumb to the sizzling summer sun. Oftentimes, the right wa-tering strategies can help homeowners nurse their lawns through the hottest months of the year, en-suring the lawns make it to autumn looking as green as they did back at the height of spring.

Reconsider when youre watering. Come sum-mertime, homeowners may want a glass of water at high noon, when temperatures seem to be at their hottest. But you and your lawn are di erent, so the best time to satiate your thirst is not neces-sarily the best time to water your lawn. Watering in the middle of the day is often ine ective, as water tends to evaporate quickly in the afternoons when temperatures are peaking. Nighttime watering can contribute to the growth of fungus, which can create an entirely new set of headaches for home-owners. Morning watering sessions tend to be

most e ective during the summertime, as tem-peratures tend to be cooler in the morning, lead-ing to less evaporation. Less evaporation means all that watering isnt going to waste.

Reconsider your sprinkler. If you cant a ord an in-ground irrigation system, which many land-scaping professionals feel is the most e ective and e cient way to water a lawn, then you likely will rely on a sprinkler to keep your lawn looking lush through the summer months. When choosing a sprinkler, look for one that shoots water out hori-zontally as opposed to vertically. A vertical sprin-kler system is more vulnerable to wind and evapo-ration than one that shoots water out horizontally, so make sure your sprinkler system is sending wa-ter into your lawn and not into summer breezes.

Avoid overwatering. How much water your lawn needs in the summertime depends on a host of factors, including where you live and how often rain falls in that region. Overwatering can promote the growth of fungus and adversely a ect your

lawns root system, making it di cult for roots to grow deep. Speak with a lo-cal land-scaping profes-sional to determine how often you should water your lawn each week.

Strategically position your sprinklers. When choosing where to put down your sprinklers, hook them up to your hose, turn them on and then watch to see where the water is going. Areas that exposed to sun are most in need of water, so make

sure the bulk of your water isnt going to shaded areas beneath trees. In addition, make sure you arent wast-

ing water on sidewalks, patios and drive-ways. Sprinklers should be positioned so

none of the water theyre shooting out is landing on surfaces that dont need water. It sounds sim-ple, but too often homeowners drop their sprin-klers down, turn them on and then walk away without waiting to see where the water is landing. Position sprinklers or adjust sprinkler heads so all the water is landing on your lawn.

Garden

Watering tips will help produce healthy lawns

ing water on sidewalks, patios and drive-ways. Sprinklers should be positioned so

Sprinklers should be positioned so none of the water theyre shooting out is landing on surfaces that dont need water.


Though it may seem like interior decorators are a luxury reserved exclusively for the rich and fa-mous, interior decorators work with people of all budgets. Homeowners sometimes wrestle with the practicality of hiring a decorator, wondering why they should spend the money when they can do the work themselves. But just like homeowners may hire professional electricians or landscapers, hiring a professional interior decorator can ensure the job is done right, within budget and complet-ed within a reasonable amount of time.

Those who have already invested quite a bit of money into their homes but want to add some nishing touches would be wise to hire interior decorators or designers. Homeowners often have no idea where to begin when attempting to es-tablish ow from room to room in their homes. Decorators can help homeowners tailor the interi-ors of their homes to the homes produce the de-sired vibe.

Hiring a designer can help a person avoid mak-ing potentially costly design errors. An aesthetical-ly appealing house also can increase the homes

value, setting a property above others in terms of appeal. Even though the designer will charge a fee, the investment may be well worth the expense when the room is done right the rst time.

Interior decorators have numerous re-sources at their disposal. Fine tuned to the world of design, they understand which trends will come and go and also which de-sign ideas have staying power. In addition, decorators will be in touch with vendors in the industry, connecting homeowners with the best of the best in terms of providing furniture, housewares, photography, and ad-ditional special touches that help make a house a home.

In addition to expertise and resources, interior decorators have eyes that will be trained on things homeowners may not have noticed or even real-ized can be done. A designer may envision remov-ing a room to create more space or knocking a wall down to let more natural light into a room.

Designers and decorators are trained to think

di erently and spatially to achieve concepts homeowners may never have envisioned for themselves. They can help tell stories through design and improve spaces immeasurably.

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Despite other intentions, home-owners often turn their garages into storage centers for random, lit-tle-used items, leaving little to no room for the tools and even vehi-cles that actually belong in a ga-rage. Such homeowners may turn to sheds to store their garage over- ow and keep yard equipment at the ready, but storage sheds are not immune to clutter, and home-owners may nd the very structure erected to keep them organized re-quires a bit of organization itself.

A well-organized shed can save home-owners time and energy, as its easy to abandon or delay a project if you cant nd that pair of work gloves you stashed. The rst step to any organizing project is to take every-thing out of the shed and determine just what needs to go back in. Items that do not belong in the shed should be moved to their rightful loca-tions or tossed in the trash if theyre no longer needed. Make a pile of anything that will be kept, a separate one for donations and a third for gar-bage. Take inventory of what you have so you know whether youre missing any items or you have something and do not need to repurchase.

Now that the entire shed is empty, you can as-sess just how much room you have. Utilizing verti-cal and overhead space e ectively can free up ar-eas on the oor for larger equipment.

Shelving, racks, pegboards and any other mate-rials that enable you to hang or store items o the oor are good investments. Visit your nearby home improvement retailer to nd items that can simplify your storage. You also may be able to put scrap wood to use to make your own storage shelves or a work bench. Extra kitchen cabinets can be installed in the shed to organize additional items.

In order to remember where items go, label or sort them accordingly. Some people like to take organization a step further by tracing the outline of tools hung on the wall so they can be placed back in the same spot after use. This also serves as a visual reminder of which tools are missing and which ones need to be purchased.

Dont forget to utilize shed doors as additional storage space. Hang frequently used tools, such as rakes and shovels, on the inside of the doors so

they will always be easily accessible.You also can repurpose storage solutions de-

signed for other areas of the home. For example, magnetic knife holders can be mounted to a shed wall to keep paintbrushes organized. These hold-ers also can be used to keep many small metal tools tidy. Metal funnels can hold twine and string. Thread through the narrow end of the funnel for a handy dispenser.

Keep dangerous substances o the oor and out of reach. Gasoline, chemical fertilizers and oth-er potentially dangerous substances should be stored high up to keep pets and children safe.

Make sure the shed oor is sturdy and level. This makes it easier to neatly store larger items. Roll in the lawnmower, wheelbarrow and any other cum-bersome items. Now that more things are mount-ed vertically, you should nd that you have more area to move around.

Secrets to keeping an organized workshop

Garden

PRACTICE SHED SMARTS Know your tools. Do not use tools for

purposes other than what the tool was intended to do. Always use machine guards if provided.

Wear safety gear. Always wear gog-gles, sound-mu ing earphones and dust masks when working.

Never surprise anyone who is work-ing with power tools and keep unneces-sary people out of the workshop, where they might chat and distract others.

Dress appropriately. Loose clothing and hair can become tangled or lodged in equipment. Do not wear jewelry.

Lock it up. Locking cabinets and drawers can keep tools inaccessible.

8 THE GREER CITIZEN PAGE LABEL WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015 PAGE LABEL THE GREER CITIZEN 9Home

Six design trends to heighten your homes styleSay goodbye to lackluster interiors as renowned

interior designer and DIY television personality, Taniya Nayak, has forecasted the top trends for 2015 that will be sure to enhance and revive any home.

DEEP, RICH HUESBe bold with shadowy and opulent tones; there

are many ways to infuse a rich color scheme into your space. Dont be intimidated by dark hues, says Nayak. Incorporate shades from the same color family throughout a room with a coordinat-ing accent wall, rug and decorative pieces - such as pillows and blankets. This creates a bold, yet harmonizing visual.

The concept of a pop of color is blown up in 2015, adds Nayak. Were seeing deep, rich hues adorning walls, lavishly upholstered furniture piec-es, window treatments and area rugs. This year, we like to say go bold or go home.

When painting with deep colors, imperfections are more visible than with lighter shades. To en-sure your painting project is awless, use FrogTape brand painters tape to achieve sharp paint lines. The tape is treated with patented PaintBlock Tech-nology, which prevents paint bleed, leaving you with an impressive, crisp edge.

GALLERY WALLSCreate a room thats uniquely yours by making a

gallery wall with items of your choice. Display an array of mirrors, framed family photos, sketches or even postcards - the key is to be creative and be yourself!

2015 is all about you, Nayak explains. Hanging a variety of frames or objects in a well thought-out cluster on the wall provides the perfect place to showcase pieces that are important and meaning-ful. When people walk into your home, theyll know exactly what you love.

BOLD PATTERNS IN NEUTRAL COLORSAlthough neutrals provide a calm palette, its

possible to infuse bold statements into these rooms, as well, with the use of patterns. Revitalize your room with a geometric rug in an earth tone, and also add window treatments with a daring o-ral design in a complementary, yet understated, color. When mixing prints, pair structured, linear patterns with organic ones for a look thats pol-ished, and not too matchy.

This is a beautiful way to add drama and what appears to be texture to a space, adds Nayak.

60S MODThe retro panache of mid-century modern de-

cor will perk up rooms with its soft, sculptural lines, woven upholstery and bright accessories in geometric shapes. Search for vintage furniture pieces like rounded chairs and button-cushion couches with short, tapered legs to add a sense of authenticity.

We are going retro mod - way back to the 60s where design was about curvy forms, vibrant col-ors and eccentric patterns, Nayak says. Be pre-pared to leave your design fears at the door and go full throttle with the bright and loud elements found in the mod movement.

ORGANIC ELEMENTSThis year, mount antlers above your mantel; or

create centerpieces with shells, metallic leaves or branches for a rustic vibe. With these earthy com-ponents juxtaposed against woodsy furniture and ivory tones, youll create an impressive, outdoorsy aesthetic.

Its easy to bring nature and organic structures into your home, Nayak assures. Leave linear styles out of the equation. Instead, think of free owing shapes, colors found in nature and the peaceful serenity associated with the outdoors. The goal is to evoke the same emotional responses through-out your home.

COPPEREach year we see a particular metal rise to the

top of every designers list; and this year, its all

about copper, Nayak says.Copper is a captivating metallic that adds a

modern edge to even the simplest scheme. Small pieces make a big statement, so subtly pepper in copper pieces to your decor, like light xtures, planters or table settings. Display copper cook-ware in your kitchen - its a great way to add a

touch of glamour without being gaudy.This year is full of impressive design trends. Use

Nayaks expertise, and this year, your home will serve as a canvas for self-expression, creativity and style.

Create a room thats uniquely yours by making a gallery wall with items of your choice.

We are going retro mod - way back to the 60s where design was about curvy forms, vibrant colors and eccentric patterns...


Homeowners know that the arrival of spring also marks the re-emergence of insects. While not every insect is harmful, if an infestation grows con-siderably or if insects begin to move from the out-doors into a home, it may be time for homeown-ers to call in a professional.

The Entomological Society of America points out that homeowners cannot count on bitterly cold winters to help control the numbers of in-sects in their yards. Insect ecology is a ected by various factors and is not solely dependent on temperature. Furthermore, what occurred one year certainly may not be repeated the next, as homeowners who have had various insect infesta-tions in their yards can attest. One year a yard may be overcome with ants, while the next year it may su er through an earwig infestation.

The rst step homeowners looking to curtail in-sects in their yards can take is to determine if the insects they see are genuine threats to their lawns. Some bugs emerge and swarm early in the season, but then gradually disappear as spring turns into summer. Other insects may come out of hiding if a homeowner is doing a lot of yard work or construction around a house. Practice a wait-and-see approach to determine if you really have an insect problem or just have stirred up ac-tivity.

Homeowners also must decide if it is bearable living with the insects. If insects are not doing any damage or if they can be controlled relatively eas-ily, then you might be able to avoid calling in the professionals. However, if critters like termites and certain species of wood-eating insects are inva-sive and damaging your yard, you may need to take action.

Anyone concerned with the side e ects of pes-ticides and insecticides can rst try to remedy the

problem naturally. Sometimes its just a matter of making a yard less hospitable to insects. Remove leaves and clean up debris close to the house, as these can both encourage infestations. Piles of rot-ting wood or leftover rewood can be a food or shelter source for a number of insects. Inspect wa-ter spigots for leaks and improve suspect drainage on your property, as these things can be welcom-ing to bugs that like moist surroundings. Remove standing water whenever possible to eliminate spots for mosquitoes to incubate larvae.

Natural remedies also may do the trick. Mint, bay leaves, catnip, and garlic can repel insects like roaches and ants. Citrus can be a natural ea de-

terrent. Some homeowners have had success planting marigolds around their yards to serve as a natural bug repellent because the owers pro-duce a scent that many insects nd repulsive. Thai lemon grass plants also can be used to keep mos-quitoes at bay.

Remember, natural predators, such as birds, bats, spiders, and larger insects, feed on nuisance bugs. Keeping these helpful predators around may be an e ective and natural way for home-owners to control annoying pests.

If an insect problem seems out of control or if you need a professional opinion about the dam-age being done to your home or landscape, con-sult with an exterminator. Licensed exterminators have the training and expertise to assess insect concerns and create a plan of action that will mini-mize the risk to inhabitants of your home and nearby wildlife. An exterminator will know what it takes to treat insects and maximize the chances of removing the problem promptly and e ectively.

Warm weather is synonymous with many things, including the return of insects. Homeown-ers may be able to treat unruly bugs on their own, but especially problematic infestations may re-quire the help of experienced exterminators.

Find the best way to treat warm weather insects

Garden

COMMON LAWN PESTS

Chinch bugs: Chinch bugs like to feast on grass that is signi cantly exposed to sunlight. As chinch bugs rob grass of its moisture, they also inject toxins into the grass that loosens it from the soil.

Grubs: Grubs are the larvae of beetles and are the nemesis of many a landscaping enthusi-ast because they typically produce patches of unsightly brown grass in their wake. The grass is discolored because grubs eat its roots, and the resulting damage may be mis-taken for sun damage when temperatures are especially high.

Mole crickets: Mole crickets are a formidable foe to homeowners. As mole crickets tunnel through the soil beneath a lawn looking for insects to eat, they leave brown patches be-hind and a ect the feel of the grass, which may feel as though its squishing and squash-ing beneath your feet.


Bird watching is a pastime enjoyed by people of all ages. While many people trek into the woods to see their favorite birds, homeowners can take steps to entice these fascinating and feathered friends right to their backyards.

Homeowners who want to attract birds to their properties can do so by providing the birds food, shelter and places to wash up or cool o . Installing a bird feeder and a bird bath in your yard is one way to attract a bevy of winged creatures that can provide hours of enjoyment.

Establishing a bird-friendly environment may seem as simple as hanging a feeder on a pole or tree and erecting a bird bath nearby. But a certain level of maintenance is needed to keep birds healthy and happy.

According to the experts at the Bird Watchers Digest, recent research indicates feeders can sometimes be a source of disease for the birds vis-iting them. The Audubon Society echoes that warning, saying that bird feeders and baths can serve as transmission stations for diseases such as aspergillosis, avian pox and salmonellosis. Recent-ly, scientists noted that the spread of trichomonad protozoan parasites is on the rise, especially among mourning dove and band-tailed pigeon populations.

Such warnings are not meant to deter budding birding hobbyists. Organizations like the Audobon Society hope that such warnings send the mes-sage that disinfection and maintenance is neces-sary to maintain sanitary environments for birds. Doing so is relatively easy and well worth the time for birding enthusiasts.

The Humane Society of the United States ad-vises cleaning hanging feeders once every two weeks or more often if theyre heavily used. Ground-feeding designs should be cleaned every two days. Feeders can be immersed in a very-

diluted solution of bleach to water (nine parts wa-ter to one part bleach). Let soak for a few minutes, and then scrub the feeder with a sti brush or scouring pad before rinsing. Allow the feeder to dry completely before re lling it with seed.

Bird baths should be emptied of water each day. Brush or wipe the bath clean, then rinse and re ll with fresh water. Do not leave standing water overnight; otherwise bird baths can easily become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Frequently collect discarded seed hulls and clean bird droppings from beneath feeders. If the area around the feeder has become especially soiled, relocate the feeder elsewhere and clean its initial location.

Follow proper instructions with re-gard to seed and other bird food. For example, reduce the amount of suet o ered in hot weather. Heat can cause suet to spoil, and sticky suet can be-come stuck in birds feathers and make it hard for them to keep clean.

Try to provide more than one feeder and bird bath to prevent overcrowding. Crowd-ing can contribute to the spread of disease.

Locate feeders and baths at least 30 feet away from windows so birds do not get confused by re- ections and collide with the glass.

Do not situate feeders and bird baths under perches where they can be soiled by droppings.

If you notice birds look sick or are not acting strangely, halt feeding and bathing to prevent healthy birds from becoming ill. Wait a week be-fore resuming feeding and notify wildlife o cials if you nd dead or sick birds around your property.

Store seed in a dry container with a tight- tting lid to prevent mold from forming and moisture from getting in.

Creating a thriving habitat for bird watching is easier than one might

think. But once birds begin visiting a yard, home-owners must diligently maintain clean feeders and bird baths to ensure the birds stay as healthy as possible.

Garden

Bird watching is a pastime enjoyed by people of Do not situate feeders and bird

Maintain feeders, baths to ensure quality bird health

watching is easier than one might

3 Rooms & Hall 4 Rooms & Hall


Maintain feeders, baths to ensure quality bird health

When youre about to buy a house, its easy to get excited about its great location, spacious oor plan or beautifully decorated interior. Yet the old saying, beautys only skin deep can apply to any home, especially if youre considering an older, previously owned property. Before signing on the dotted line, use this checklist to help avoid some potentially costly surprises and anticipate repairs or upgrades that may be needed.

START AT THE TOP: THE ROOFAsk when the current roof was installed. Is it the

original roof, or has it been replaced, repaired, or covered over with new shingles in certain spots? Are there known leaks, and if so, where are they? Have any of the leaks caused damage to the attic or interior? Also look at the chimney to see if its properly sealed around the edges and whether the gutters need repair.

WINDOWS AND DOORSNext, take a look at the windows to see if there

is any condensation between the glass panes. If so, it could mean window replacements are in or-der. Once you get inside the house and close the front door, see if any light is coming through be-tween the edge of the door opening and the wall. This gap is an indicator that the door may need to be replaced since air can escape through it and cause higher energy bills.

LIGHTING AND ELECTRICAL Throughout the interior rooms, many homes

are staged to appeal to buyers with attractive lighting that shows o the space to its best advan-

tage. You may love the way the lamps look in the bedroom, o ce or kitchen, but more importantly, check out how many electrical outlets there are and whether they are in convenient locations. Also, make sure you check to see if the lamps are masking the fact that there are no ceiling xtures in each room. Will you need to rig up extension cords or invest in electrical work in order to sup-port all the lamps, ceiling xtures, appliances and electronics you wish to use?

GET TO THE BOTTOM OF FURNACE EFFICIENCY At the basement level, be sure to check out the

heating system. If the current furnace is more than 10 years old, it may be operating at a much lower level of e ciency than the latest manufacturing standards require, resulting in higher energy costs. Newer models can operate at nearly 20 percent higher e ciency than the government minimum standard, for the ultimate in energy e ciency. A quali ed dealer can advise you on the best solu-tion for any home.

WHAT YOU CANT SEE: INDOOR AIR QUALITYOne thing you cant see is the quality of the

homes indoor air. Nearly 72 trillion particles enter a home every day, making the air inside up to ve times more polluted than the air outside. Adding a lter, such as Trane CleanE ects Air Cleaner, to the heating and cooling system can remove 99.98 per-cent of airborne particles including dust, pollen, pet hair and dander, dust mites, mildew, lint, fun-gus, most tobacco smoke, cooking grease, and even bacteria from the ltered air - so everyone in your new home can breathe easier.

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New homebuyers checklistto identify costly repairs

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An eco-friendlyapproach to home care

Living an eco-friendly lifestyle starts at home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, resi-dential use accounts for more than one- fth of the nations total energy consumption. Adopting an earth- rst, energy saving mindset will let you make adjustments around your home so that you can feel good about your familys contributions to protect the environment.

GREEN ENERGYImproving your homes energy e ciency is not

only good for the planet, its good for your wallet. After all, wasted energy is money lost in monthly utility bills. Numerous factors in uence a homes energy e ciency, or lack thereof. Air leaks, outdat-ed appliances or ine cient heating and cooling systems can all negatively impact your homes en-ergy usage.

STRUCTURAL IMPROVEMENTSCorrecting any structural issues can go a long

way toward making your home more e cient. Give your home a thorough inspection to identify and repair leaks and cracks around windows, doors and duct work. Remember that poorly sealed attics and basements are also common cul-prits of energy loss.

APPLIANCES AND MAJOR SYSTEMSUpgrading your appliances and temperature

control systems also helps drive more e cient en-ergy use throughout the house. Look for ENERGY STAR-certi ed products, which are designed to save energy without sacri cing on performance. Where possible, make purchases that will perform double duty, such as high-e ciency washing ma-chines that can save on both energy and water us-age.

FUEL SOURCESChoosing the right energy source can also help

lessen your impact on the environment. For exam-ple, using propane-powered appliances in your home can signi cantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. According to a recent study sponsored by the Propane Education & Research Council, propane-powered furnaces emit 73 percent fewer greenhouse gases than electricity. Similarly, pro-pane-powered storage water heaters emit ap-proximately 39 percent less greenhouse gas than

electric storage models.For more information about using pro-

pane and propane-powered appliances in your home, visit www.propane.com.

GREEN UPGRADESShopping smart to incorporate high-e -

ciency appliances and electronics into your home is just a rst step. There are many oth-er ways you can make such products even more sustainable:

Rely on LED light bulbs, which use a frac-tion of the energy and last signi cantly lon-ger than traditional bulbs.

Use light timers to turn o lights when they arent needed.

Make a habit of powering o lights and other electronics when you leave the room.

Set a programmable thermostat to adjust tem-peratures when youre away from home.

Wash only full loads of laundry, and use cold water when possible.

Air-dry dishes, rather than using the heated drying cycle of the dishwasher.

BUYING GREENUnderstanding just what makes a product

green can be confusing. According to the U.S. En-vironmental Protection Agency, greener products are those that are shown to have less health or en-vironmental impacts than similar products that have the same function.

The EPA has made it easy to identify earth-friendly cleaning supplies by introducing a Design for the Environment label that designates prod-ucts deemed safer for personal health and the en-vironment.

Other categories of green products may be harder to identify. You can rely on EPA labeling programs such as ENERGY STAR for household items such as windows, doors and many major ap-pliances, and WaterSense for water-speci c prod-ucts such as toilets, faucets and showerheads.

When evaluating whether a product is green, be wary of eco-labels, which are not regulated and may contain misleading information designed to downplay a products true impact. The Federal Trade Commission created the Green Guides to set standards for truth in advertising; however, there is broad scope and consumers may still need to do some research to understand why a pack-age has a green message on its label.

Ultimately, its important to consider all aspects of the products development, from research and

manufacturing to packaging and distribution. For example, an earth-friendly cleanser packaged in a bottle using recycled plastic is more green than one that is not.

RECYCLE LIKE A PRO Living green isnt just about saving energy. Sus-

tainable living also means putting earth-friendly practices in place throughout your home, such as recycling. With these tips you can make recycling easier for the whole family.

Establish collection bins to make it easy to gather all your recycling in one place. The number of bins you need depends on your citys guide-lines for sorting. If no sorting is required, a single bin will do. Otherwise, use di erent colored bins to make it simple to sort paper, aluminum, glass, etc.

Most families nd the kitchen is a primary source of recyclable goods. If space is at a premi-um, keep a smaller collection bin in the kitchen that can be easily transported to a sorting station in a larger area, such as the garage.

Dont forget to recycle in other rooms, too. Many common bathroom items, such as shampoo and soap bottles, and even cardboard toilet paper tubes, can be recycled.

Remember that recycling can also come in other forms, like donating unwanted clothing to charity or using leftover water to quench thirsty plants or freshen the dogs bowl.

Be sure to rinse away any food or liquid residue from containers to manage odors and keep your recycling area tidy and odor free.

Maximize your bin space by compressing cans and bottles.

Source: Family Features

Home

How green is your house?


Warmer temperatures and longer hours of sun-light can recharge energy levels. Upon the arrival of spring, homeowners dust o their to-do lists and charge ahead with renewed vigor.

But before homeowners can get started on renovation projects, many must tame the existing mess that may have built up over the winter. Spring is a great time to dive into spring cleaning projects and ready a home for a season of reno-vation and remodeling.

Getting started on spring cleaning can be a tad overwhelming. In 2012, OnePoll asked 1,000 adults living in the United Kingdom how they felt

about spring cleaning, and 41 percent of those surveyed found spring cleaning a daunting pro-cess while 68 percent had negative feelings about spring cleaning. But in spite of that initial lack of enthusiasm, respondents said they felt happy and more organized once they nished their spring cleaning. Establishing a plan and setting reachable goals can make spring cleaning a lot less daunt-ing.

Set aside several days for spring cleaning. A long weekend is a great time to do some spring cleaning, as having consecutive days to clean will reduce the chances you grow distracted.

Make a list and purchase all of the supplies you will need. Again, this will help you stay on course, rather than going out to the store to pick up cleaners or organizational systems.

Try to set reasonable goals. Even if you hope to clean the en-tire house, stick to the one or two rooms that are most desper-ate for your at-tention. Divide each task into a series of steps so when you complete each step you will feel proud that youre making progress.

Create your musical playlist. A playlist full of your favorite songs can provide some inspiration and energy to push you through the spring clean-ing when your enthusiasm starts to wane. The mu-sic also may take your mind o of the work ahead and help to pass the time.

Start from the top and work downward. Follow a logical cleaning order. Begin by dusting away cobwebs and lighting xtures. Clean light switch-es and walls. Empty closets and then restock them in a more organized fashion. Leave the furniture and ooring for last, as dirt and dust may accumu-late on furniture and ooring as you clean other areas of the home.

Be prepared to bid adieu to some of your stu . Have a few trash bags at the ready. Reorganize items you wont be keeping into separate piles, with one pile for items you plan to donate and an-other for those items you will discard. Donate what you can and promptly put the remainder of the items at the curb for pickup.

Stay fed and hydrated. Cleaning can be physi-cally and emotionally exhausting. Take breaks to fuel up on food and always have a refreshing bev-erage close by.

Get started now onspring cleaning chores

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Many homeowners recognize that improving and maintaining a property makes a home more livable for its inhabitants and more attractive to prospective buyers when the time comes to erect a For Sale sign in the front yard.

But a well-maintained home also provides addi-tional bene ts. According to the United States De-partment of Housing and Urban Development, home improvements not only raise the values of individual homes, but they tend to raise neighbor-hood standards as well. Home improvements can create jobs and help local communities ourish economically.

Maintaining a home can be a costly undertak-ing. Home improvement projects can be expen-sive whether homeowners hire professionals or tackle renovation projects on their own. The fol-lowing are a handful of options homeowners can consider as they look for ways to nance renova-tion projects.

Paying outright: Paying for the renovations up-front and in full is perhaps the simplest way to -nance a project. Homeowners who have the cash to pay for renovations outright wont have to wor-ry about interest rates or balloon payments.

Mortgage re nancing: Some homeowners tap into their home equity to cover home remodeling projects. Re nancing a mortgage means paying o the debt owed and starting over with a com-pletely new loan. Re nancing comes with various fees and can cost between 3 and 6 percent of the loans principal.

Home equity loans and lines of credit: Both of these options are commonly referred to as second mortgages. When homeowners apply for home equity loans or lines of credit, they are borrowing against the equity value in their homes. A home equity loan is a term, or closed-end, loan. It is a one-time sum that will be paid o over a set amount of time with a xed interest rate and the same payment each month. This is a one-time loan from which a person cannot borrow further. A home equity line of credit, or HELOC, is like hav-ing a credit card. Its possible to borrow a certain amount for the life of the loan, which is a set time speci ed by the lender. During this time, home-owners can withdraw money as it is needed up to the value of the line of credit. HELOCs typically have a variable interest rate that uctuates and payments can vary depending on the amount of money borrowed and the current interest rates.

Title I property loan: Residents of the United States with limited equity in their homes may qualify for an FHA Title I loan. Banks and other lenders are quali ed to make these loans from their own funds, and the FHA will insure the lend-er against a possible loss. Title I loans can be used for any improvements that will make a home more useful and livable. They cannot be used for renovations deemed luxury expenses.

Borrow against retirement funds: Some people opt to borrow against a 401(k) plan, IRA or another retirement fund. If the retirement plan allows a loan without penalty, it can be another way to se-cure funds. Because it is the homeowners money, there will be no credit check required and less de-lay in getting the funds. Borrowers should keep in mind that taking a loan against a retirement ac-count will usually result in a lower retirement bal-

ance than it would have been had they not bor-rowed money from the account - even after the funds have been repaid.

Credit cards: Credit cards are an option when improvements are not expensive. Individuals with excellent credit ratings may qualify for cards with a no-interest introductory periods of several months or more. These cards can be a good way to pay o moderate improvements in a short amount of time.

Many home renovation projects require home-owners to develop a home improvement budget. Homeowners are urged to explore all options and nd the least costly loan method and the one that will present the best possibility for avoiding debt.

Home & Garden

How to fi nance home improvement projects

Home improvements not only raise the values of individual homes, but they tend to raise neighborhood standards as well.


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Many homeowners pick up their paintbrushes in an e ort to make their homes more colorful. But homeowners need not embrace their inner Pi-casso to brighten their homes interiors. The fol-lowing are a handful of paint-free ways to add some splashes of color to your home.

Bring nature inside. Flowers and plants can make colorful additions to a homes interior. Flow-ers tend to be aromatic, which can make a stu y house in which windows need to be kept closed a lot more pleasant. Plants and owers also can im-prove indoor air quality. Several studies, including one published in the Journal for the AmericanSo-ciety for Horticultural Science, have shown that houseplants improve indoor air quality by ltering out volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, that can be harmful to human health. Thats especially im-portant come late fall and winter, when home-owners typically shut their windows and keep them shut until spring, making it di cult for fresh air to enter a home.

Invest in some colorful throw pillows. Instead of buying new furniture, invest in some colorful throw pillows to give a room a more vibrant look.

Patterns can be mixed and matched to provide some contrast and transform a room from some-where to spend time into a sight to behold.

Paper the walls. While many of todays home-owners prefer paint to wallpaper, those who want

a less per-manent so-lution to brighten up their homes may want to consider re-movable wallpaper. Such paper is less ex-pensive than tradi-tional wall-paper, and many do-it-yourselfers nd remov-able wallpa-

per is easy to both install and remove. Choose a colorful pattern that can turn an otherwise plain wall into a potent palette that adds some life to your homes interior. Because removable wallpaper does not require a signi cant nancial investment, you can experi-ment with various colors or change things up

each month if you so desire.

Add some artwork. Another way to add color to the walls inside your home without dusting o your paintbrush is to hang some colorful artwork. Paintings that feature bold colors tend to draw your immediate attention when you enter a room, and that quality can make you forget the room is not bene tting from natural light. If you want to go the extra mile, nd a painting that features col-ors which match throw pillows or other accesso-ries in the room. This way your walls and your ac-cessories are working in concert to make a room more colorful.

Rug it out. A patterned throw rug is another ac-cessory that can e ectively brighten a room with-out much e ort or nancial investment on the part of homeowners. When choosing a throw rug, nd one thats colorful but does not clash consid-erably with existing furnishings, as you dont want the rug to draw attention for all the wrong rea-sons. You have more freedom with regard to rugs if youre furnishing an empty room, as you can choose whichever rug you look and then choose additional furnishings based on the rug.

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