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April 10, 2012

Spruce Up Indoors And Out!

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Home & Garden Guide

Count on the professionals inside to help you with your spring home and garden projects! Supplement to Moneysaver Shopping Guide and Shopping News

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MONEYSAVER HOME & GARDEN GUIDE

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owners should look in the attic of a home to see if there is any mold growth. If there is, the roof is likely leaking, and the health risks of mold growth in a home are substantial. Mold is not necessarily easy to detect, so a professional inspection might be in order if mold growth is suspected. If a professional determines mold is, in fact, present, then the mold will need to be removed and all options, including a roof replacement, must be considered to keep mold from coming back. 5. Roof rot- Perhaps the most discouraging sign a homeowner can see on his or her roof is roof rot. Roof rot appears when a roof is in considerable decay and, if not addressed, its consequences can stretch far beyond the roof, damaging other parts of the home thanks in large part to water getting through the roof. If roof rot is either not noticed or just ignored, it wont take long for water to get through the roof and blaze a destructive path through the rest of the home. Homeowners might fear a full roof replacement because of the cost associated with such a project. But if ignored, problems with a roof could eventually prove far more costly than the price of replacing the roof. Using an insecticide for grub control in July can help kill off grubs that start hatching in August through September. Grub eggs do well in sunny patches of lawn that are well watered. More shade may deter them. Theres also the option of letting the lawn go dormant and not watering it, but you will be left with a brown, unappealing lawn. Pet Urine- Pets can also damage a lawn. Pet urine can create burnt patches and significant discoloration on the lawn, particularly if the dog or cat uses one area consistently as their potty zone. The best way to prevent urine damage is to walk your dog so that he or she will not have free reign of the yard. However, sometimes dogs get out or stray cats and dogs visit your yard and relieve themselves without your knowledge. So this method is not foolproof. Therefore, you should take added action to maintain a lush lawn. First, make sure that soil and lawn is in good health by fertilizing and taking care of it properly. Second, water can dilute urine and neutralize its corrosive properties. Some have found that diluted urine can often act as a fertilizer to grass. You may have noticed that the outside ring of a urine-burned spot is often greener than the healthy lawn. Try to dilute the urine prior to 8 hours having elapsed for the best effect. Burrowing animalsMoles and voles are among the more common lawn damage culprits. Voles are small rodents that resemble mice but have stouter bodies, shorter tails and rounder heads. They feast on everything from bulbs, succulent roots, ground cover, and even dead animals in their paths. Their burrows enable them to move around relatively undetected, typically until the damage has already been done. Moles, although they have a similar-sounding name, are not related to voles and look very different. They have a cylindrical body shape with velvety fur, very small or invisible ears and large paws for digging. Moles often feed on earthworms and other small invertebrates found in the soil. The burrows they create are essentially traps for the worms, who fall into the burrows, where moles easily access them. Moles often stockpile worms for later consumption in underground larders. Voles can be kept away with natural vole predators, such as cats, hawks, owls and snakes. Mouse traps can also capture voles when baited. You may also

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dig sharp materials or chicken wire into your soil around planting beds to make it uncomfortable for voles and moles to tunnel through. Moles can also be controlled with traps. Finding active mole tunnels will help you place the traps effectively to either kill or simply contain the mole. The live animal can be relocated to a site where they wont cause trouble. Lawn damage can occur through a number of different factors. Finding out the cause can help you find an effective treatment.

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Preventing lawn damage includes cleaning up after pets, whose urine can cause discoloration in the yard.

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Ecoscaping is a growing trend among homeowners who want to take care of their lawns and landscapes but want to do so in a way thats environmentally friendly. Integrating both landscape architecture and spatial planning with environmental science, ecoscaping is meant to help homeowners create a sustainable and eco-friendly landscape design. Its natural to assume that ecoscaping includes looking for ways to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides, but there are many additional ways homeowners can embrace ecoscaping. This includes removing or refusing to plant invasive plants that are difficult to control because they are from different ecosystems and can threaten local wildlife and existing plants. Instead of choosing exotic plants that arent native to the area, choose native plants that are accustomed to the local climate. Another way to embrace ecoscaping is to develop a planting strategy wherein plants are planted in beneficial growing conditions that can eliminate the need for chemical fertilizers and excessive watering.

Five Signs Your Roof Might Be Wearing Down

Replacing a roof is a costly venture few homeowners look forward to. According to Remodeling magazines 2010-11 Cost vs. Value report, the national average cost of a roof replacement is nearly $22,000, a costly endeavor considering the tenuous nature of the economy. Whats more, homeowners who choose more upscale roofing materials can expect to spend almost $40,000 on their roofs. Such costs make it no small wonder that many homeowners fear the dreaded diagnosis that their home needs a new roof. While theres little homeowners can do to reduce the cost of a roof replacement, there are warning signs homeowners can look for that might indicate a roof replacement is on the horizon.

Recognition of these signs can help homeowners be more financially prepared should the day come when the roof needs to be replaced. 1. The presence of algae- If the roof has lots of dark streaks and stains clinging to it, that is likely algae, which can grow on the roof for quite awhile. Algae does not necessarily do any damage to a roof, but it does do some damage to a homes physical appearance, as algae on the roof is not very pleasing to the eye. Algae is most often found on the roofs of homes located in climates that have warm, humid summers. If algae is a problem on your roof, spray washing with a mixture of water and bleach can effectively remove it. 2. Buckling shinglesLike algae, buckling shingles are another unsightly problem on a roof. But buckling shingles are more than just an eyesore,

they actually might indicate significant problems. When shingles buckle, thats typically because hot air from the attic is forcing the shingles away from the home. Buckling shingles also indicate that the roof is poorly ventilated, which can take years off the roofs life expectancy while driving up home cooling costs along the way.

How to Prevent Lawn Damage

Many homeowners aspire toward a pristine and lush lawn. For some a nice lawn gives them feelings of pride. Others believe a perfect lawn enables them to have the best-looking house in the neighborhood. Many homeowners spend hours outdoors perfecting their lawns or spend a good deal of money hiring professionals to make their lawn more appealing. But just because a lawn looks good now doesnt mean it will look good later. Thats because delicate grass can be damaged by a number of different factors. Grubs- Grubs are not very lawn-friendly. Grubs are actually the larval stage of different types of large beetles. These worm-like creatures feed on the roots of grass and are able to kill large sections of the lawn in a relatively short amount of time. It can sometimes be difficult to discern whether grubs, drought or another other pest has damaged a lawn. One way to check is to grab a portion of the damaged lawn and attempt to peel it back. If it comes back easily like a piece of carpet, its likely grubs. Spotting grubs underneath is a sure sign these larvae are killing the lawn.

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3. Granule loss- Granule loss is typically a byproduct of normal shingle wear and tear that results from inclement weather, such as hail. Older roofs might experience granule loss, but granule loss can also occur on a new roof if a defective roofing product was used. Any granule loss, even if slight, should be addressed, as the side effects of granule loss include a weakened roof and leaking. If granule loss is not addressed, the consequences could be severe the next time a storm occurs. 4. Mold- Unlike the warning signs already discussed, mold is not visible on the outside of the home. Instead, home-

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by traditional Italian glass mosaics. If youre nervous about making such a drastic change, fear not, new technologies are making it easier for consumers to visualize potential refurbishments. A new iPad application, iGRANITE, for instance, allows users to upload a snapshot of their space, and change the colors and textures of every surface of the room. More details about downloading the app can be found at www.granitetransformations .com . Appliances- When is the last time you replaced your kitchen appliances? No appliance, however durable, will perform optimally forever. It may be time to evaluate if your products are really doing the job. Replacing major appliances like stoves and refrigerators might sound like an expensive prospect, but outdated products are not always as energyefficient as newer models. Swapping these items will not only give your kitchen a sleek new look, they might also save you money on utilities in the long run.

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Quick And Easy Ways To Update Your Kitchen

(StatePoint) For many families, the kitchen is the most important room in the house, topping the list of rooms where they gather most. And its almost always the busiest room when entertaining friends. But if your kitchen is outmoded or looking just plain drab, some easy, costefficient updates can make it more inviting, without undertaking a major remodeling job. Walls- Wallpaper styles come and go. And if your walls were papered more than a few years ago, you are probably living with a design thats no longer in fashion. For a timeless look, strip the dated wallpaper and replace it with a bright new coat of paint. Be sure to choose a color that nicely complements the floors, countertops and cabinets. For a modern take on wallpaper, look for mosaic tile collections that showcase beautiful tiles and patterns, providing texture for any wall in your home. Countertops- Inconvenience is a major factor with a full kitchen remodel. But you can update the overall appearance of the kitchen by redoing just the countertops. For example, a kitchen and bathroom remodeling company can transform a kitchen in one day by replacing your countertops with heat, cold and scratch resistant glass or granite. For an even more elegant look, consider opting for mosaic tiles, inspired

Spring Checklist for Home and Lawn Care

(NewsUSA) - Whether youre considering the resale value of your home or are simply resigned to doing maintenance projects to keep your house in good condition, your lawn and garden could certainly benefit from some TLC of the home- and lawnimprovement variety this spring. The exterior of your house commands most first impressions, and even mild winters inflict seasonal damage. If you dont know where to start, a homeimprovement project checklist may help. Consider the following lawn and garden maintenance tips from home and garden experts at HGTV and MarthaStewart.com: * Remove piles of dead leaves from the lawn. Not only will your grass grow greener, a clean lawn helps maximize fertilizers and pesticides. Dont make the mistake of fertilizing your grass too early though. April is the general benchmark; any sooner might result in yellow spots and dried-out patches of grass. * Check gutters for leaks and debris. Loose gutters cause improper drainage, so water can collect in basements and crawl spaces. Downspouts should point away from the foundation of the house and must be clear of all debris. * Start a roof fund. Its a good rule of thumb to check your roof for rotted, buckled, loose or missing shingles after winter because summer sun will only worsen the damage. Since roof maintenance is so expensive, its also smart to start a fund before you need it. * Remove piles of wood or debris stacked near the home. Firewood should be kept far away from the foundation, and stacked 18 inches off the ground. These preventative measures help keep insect pests from exploring your home. * Dont strain yourself, and stay hydrated. This might be the first time youve done any heavy lifting or spent hours in the sun for months. Remember to drink plenty of fluids, take breaks and stretch your muscles. * Call a professional to clean your AC unit. Heating and cooling experts recommend an annual servicing since clean coils work more efficiently. When the summers blazing heat drives you indoors, your family will appreciate having an AC operating at peak levels.

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According to real estate experts, kitchen up-dates offer homeowners the highest return on investment than any other home improvement job. So whether youre planning to sell your home, or simply bring it into the 21st century, youd be wise to start with the kitchen.

Is Your Home Air Conditioner Ready For Spring And Summer?

(StatePoint) Temperatures are on the rise, but that doesnt mean your energy bill needs to increase too. There are a number of ways you can keep your home cool and your energy bills in check this season. Is your air conditioner operating optimally? If you have a central air conditioning system, its important to get it checked by an HVAC/R professional. Do some comparison shopping -- special deals are easy to come by on seasonal preventative maintenance. Be advised, however, that the expertise of HVAC/R technicians can vary widely. Though the HVAC/R industry does not require technicians to take mandatory competency tests, you can help ensure a job well done by opting for a technician certified by North American Technician Excellence (NATE), the nations largest independent, nonprofit certification body for HVAC/R technicians. NATE-certified technicians are qualified to properly install and service equipment, which translates to maximum home comfort and energy savings. Once you know your air conditioning system is

running efficiently, there are several things you can do to keep energy bills to a minimum: Keep air conditioner units clear of plants and debris. Obstructing airflow will reduce the units efficiency. Raise the thermostat. Each degree saves a percentage off your cooling energy bill.

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Check air filters every couple of weeks and change them at least twice during the season, or as directed by the manufacturer. Review last years energy bills. If your cooling costs are drastically higher this year, a qualified HVAC/R technician can

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By Tresa Erickson Youre going to have a yard sale this spring, and in preparation, youve been cleaning out closets, cabinets and drawers and tossing things left and right into the sale pile. Your next cleaning spree will take place in the attic, and there youre sure to come across many forgotten treasures, including an old wooden plate you purchased years ago. You love that plate and cant bear to part with it. You tried displaying it in areas all over the house, but nothing ever worked so you stashed it away upstairs in an old trunk. Want to get it out of storage permanently and put it up on the wall? Turn it into a clock.

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flowers around the outside. Mix plants with the same sun requirements. Keep it moist: Stick your finger deep into the soil. Water the plants if the soil is dry. Youll need to water often to keep the root ball wet.

Successful Container Gardening

(NAPSA)-Container gardening lets you add character and color to your patio or balcony. If youre really hurting for space, then a window box can give you the splash of color youre looking for. Container gardening lets you bring interior design components to your outdoor space, said Lance Walheim, co-author of Landscaping for Dummies and gardening expert for Bayer Advanced(tm). It allows you to express your creativity. The National Gardening Association says that more than 26 million households have container gardensthats the equivalent of the total number of households in California, New York and Texas. What to grow: You can try just about anything as long as the pot is big

enough. Options: Japanese maples, azaleas, camellias, roses, dwarf apples, lemons, peaches, pears, blueberries, strawberries, impatiens, marigolds, geraniums, daffodils and tulips. Match the plant to the container: A Japanese maple looks great in a glazed ceramic pot. You also want to have one consistent style of pot, such as clay or wood. Snap a photo of your outdoor space with your smart phone and let your garden center guide you on options. Make sure the pots have drainage holes. Buy packaged potting soil, not gardening soil: Potting soil is well aerated and holds necessary moisture and nutrients for successful container gardening. Plant flowers like you arrange a bouquet: Taller plants or flowers go in the middle. Place smaller ones around that and cascading

Container gardening lets you bring interior design components to your outdoor space. Establish a wellness plan: Use an insect, disease & mite control product that kills aphids, mites, whiteflies, plant bugs, black spot, powdery mildew and leaf spot on contact before they can damage or destroy your container garden. Always read and follow label directions. Feed your container garden: Frequent watering washes nutrients from the soil, so youll need to fertilize more often to keep your plants blooming. If you do all the right things, your plants will stay healthy and grow. That means youll need to transplant them into larger pots. You can reuse the older pot when you buy new plants or flowers.

You can turn just about anything into a clock from old plates to tree trunk cross-sections. All you need to do is purchase a craft clock kit and assemble all of the necessary tools and supplies, including a drill, screwdriver and glue. To make your clock, follow these directions: 1. Drill a hole through the object to make space for the clock mechanism. 2. Insert the clock hands through the hole. 3. Attach the battery pack to the back of the object. 4. Glue numbers or some other markers to the front of the object or leave it plain. 5. Place a nail in the wall and hang up your new clock. In just five steps, you can create your own clock. Be aware that with some objects, you may have to make adjustments. If the object is extremely thick, for example, you may have to attach some wood to the back to serve as extra support for hanging the piece. Clock kits are a great way to take cherished items and turn them into functional pieces that you can display in your home. Dont hesitate to turn that wooden plate into a clock or make your own from a scrap piece of wood. You can paint, stain or decoupage the base and turn it into a real work of art.

owners pushing walk-behind mowers. Whether these mowers were powered by gasoline, electricity or simply human power, they were the type of mower that was generally the most popular and most affordable. Individuals had different features they could consider in their mowers, including horsepower and the size of the deck. There were also mowers that could bag or mulch. Despite these features, homeowners with a particularly large back or front yard -- or both -- may have found lawn mowing to be tedious work. Those who have yards of almost an acre or more often find riding mowers to be an efficient method of mowing the lawn, and one that also does not require as much effort out in the sun.

and up, riding mowers generally start at $1,000 and may be as much as $10,000, depending on the extra features, like cruise control and cup holders.

However, some find that what riding mowers lack in affordability, they make up for in convenience. Plus buying a riding mower may pay for itself in savings on landscaping services over the course of one to two seasons. As with any lawn tool, its important to note that riding mowers are not toys and they should not be handled by children, nor should children be allowed to ride along while mowing.

Clogged Sink?
A riding mowers cutting deck is in front, while a lawn or gardening tractors cutting deck is midmounted, which is how they differ. Lawn tractors also may be able to accept other landscaping attachments. A riding mower is more maneuverable than a tractor, particularly for landscapes that may have trees or planting beds. Cost is the one thing that may deter some homeowners from a riding mower. While a walk-behind mower could cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars My sink in the bathroom was clogged. My normal goto when any drain gets clogged is an expensive drain cleaner. We didnt have any on hand, but we did have a wire coat hanger. My husband bent it into a hook shape and ran it down the drain. He was able to pull out the whole clog! Afterwards I poured a little bit of baking soda in the drain and chased it with some vinegar, just for good measure. I have read that this is great as a regular treatment to help prevent clogs from forming in the first place. -Rebecca

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tile floors or get imbedded into the carpeting. Variety What you see is what you get with asphalt. There really are no decorative options -- its merely a simple and practical driveway material. On the other hand, concrete can be colored or stamped to provide designs and aesthetic appeal. If you desire a higher-end driveway, then concrete may be right for you. Both driveway materials will do what theyre supposed to -- providing a durable surface on which to park your car. If youre looking for low installation costs, then you may want to choose asphalt. For the utmost in durability, perhaps concrete is best.

MONEYSAVER HOME & GARDEN GUIDE APRIL 10, 2012

Concrete vs. Asphalt Driveways

Many homes come with a driveway. Whether leading to a garage or not, the driveway is a convenient place to park one or more cars. If a driveway is in need of repair or replacement, owners often choose between asphalt or concrete. There are certain factors that come into play when making a decision. More often than not, cost is a main consideration and frequently the driving force behind any driveway decisions that are made. Until you realize all of the subtleties behind these materials, you may not be able to make an informed decision. Cost According to the Do It Yourself Web site, concrete can cost up to 45 percent more than asphalt to install generally. But if the price of crude oil is high, and crude oil is a compo-nent of asphalt composition, then the asphalt could be more expensive. The best way to compare prices is to get a few estimates for each material.

Depending on climate, both asphalt and concrete can be prone to cracking. In many cases, it is more expensive to mend cracks in a concrete driveway than in one made from asphalt. Weather compatibility If you live in a very hot climate, you may want to choose a concrete driveway. Asphalt tends to get soft in the heat, which can contribute to grooves and dents in the surface.

Whereas concrete driveways work better in warm climates than cold ones. Salt used on roadways can damage concrete, and coldweather shrinkage can lead to cracks in the concrete. Rate of repair Despite the cost, some people choose concrete driveways be-cause they tend to have a longer life with less mainte-nance required. A concrete driveway can last as long as 50 years. Asphalt driveways can last around 30 years, but if theyre not properly maintained, may start deteriorating after just a few years. Thats because asphalt is petroleum-based and very elastic. If left to dry out without adequate sealing, the driveway can become brittle and start to wear away. Concrete driveways can be sealed to preserve their quality, but most people associate sealing with asphalt. This should be done every 5 years or so to prevent the breakdown of the oils in the asphalt. The first application of sealant should be applied no sooner than 8 to 12 months after installation to allow the asphalt to properly cure. Asphalt that is ready for sealing will start to take on a grayish hue. Staining A light-colored con-crete can be stained easily from fluid leaks from the underside of a car or leaves. It may take powerwashing to remove the stain adequately. However, stains are much less visible on dark asphalt. But asphalt can do its own type of staining. The oils released from the asphalt can stick to the undersides of shoes and be carried indoors. If you dont remove your shoes upon entering, these oils may eventually discolor vinyl or

Budding Gardeners
By Tresa Erickson While some people appear to have been born with a green thumb, others arent so fortunate. Gardening does not come so instinctively to them. If you are among them, do not despair. You can learn how to garden and become really good at it by following some basic tips. Learn all that you canRead up on the subject of gardening, from the basics to the fine details. Check out some books and subscribe to a few magazines. Join a gardening club or at the very least get together with a group of gardening friends. The more data you collect, the better decisions you will make in the long run and the more likely you are to have some success. Watch out for the prettyBudding gardeners too often select plants on their appearance rather than their requirements. They like the way a certain plant looks, plant it and then wonder why it doesnt measure up later. You need plants with requirements that your garden can meet. If your garden gets a great deal of sun, then you need plants that require full sun. If your garden is in the shade much of the day, then you need plants that require shade. Be patient- Gardens take time to mature. Dont try to turn a budding garden into a mature garden with closer plantings and invasive species. While your garden might look fuller at first, it will not stay that way. Some of the plants competing for space might not survive, while others might get run over by the invasive species. Correcting the issues wont be easy either, as transplanting doesnt always work and getting rid of doesnt invasive species can be downright difficult. Compost, compost, compost! Set up a compost bin, add to it regularly and apply it every spring for a fertile garden. It will save you big time in fertilizer costs, help the environment and give your plants the extra boost they need. Creating a compost bin is not that difficult either. There are tons of how-tos and tips online. Be realisticAgain, gardens take time to

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mature. Dont push yourself so hard in the beginning that you run out of steam and call it quits. Take your time, be prepared to make mistakes and dont be afraid to ask for help. The best gardens often come out of years of trial and error. If you dont get it right the first time, ask a buddy for some advice, and remember, theres always next year. You dont have to be born with a green thumb to become a great gardener. You can learn how to master the art over time. All it takes is some patience and practice.

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that contain DEET, may prove more hazardous to human health than the insects themselves -- even if a person has been bitten. To repel insects safely, experiment with these different methods. * Aloe vera, lavender, peppermint, and clove are known to repel mosquitoes. * Grow herbs and flowers like garlic, rosemary, tansy, catmint, basil, pennyroyal, and marigolds. These plants naturally repel many bugs. At...

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* Avoid lotions or perfumes with a floral scent, which attract bugs. * Remove standing water around the house where pests may gravitate to and lay eggs. * Citronella candles and sprays may work for a few hours in relatively small areas. * The eco-friendly use of insect protection nets has proved to be the most successful alternative to chemical pesticides.

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Biting flies, mosquitoes, gnats, bees, and beetles can make outdoor excursions unenjoyable. People often rely on insect repellents to keep bugs away. Though there are many repellents on the market, only a few of them may be considered safe. Repellants, such as those

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age immediate disposal of junk mail. Consider reducing your pile by receiving bills and bank statements electronically, and requesting a stop to catalogs. Dont be a hoarder. Periodically assess your closet. If you have clothing that doesnt fit, is fraying, or out of date, get rid of it. You dont need to take up valuable closet space with unusable garments. No More Stains Art projects gone awry, muddy dog paws, party fouls. Anyone with a pet, kids, or a love of red wine knows that fabric stains on furniture, pillows and blankets can happen all too easily. And once items are stained, theyll never look clean again. But you dont need to constantly flip those cushions or turn your children into little adults to keep your home looking great. All it takes is a staple gun and some special fabric to turn your bar stool or dining room chair into a new piece of furniture that will repel stains and moisture, says Randy Rubin, co-founder of Crypton, a textile manufacturer that develops ecofriendly fabrics that are stain, liquid and odorcausing bacteria resistant. Consider outfitting your home with such stainproof fabrics. You wont need to sacrifice style either. No More Mold Mold is not only an eyesore; it poses a number of health risks. And cleaning it is a big job that can be expensive. Avoid mold build-up by following some simple steps. Test the humidity level of each room, including closets. If your Relative Humidity (RH) is 55 percent or higher, invest in a dehumidifier. Fix leaky faucets immediately, and use a fan or open a window when taking a shower. Inspect your roof twice yearly, keep your chimney free of cracks and clean your gutters regularly. The key to clean-liness is prevention. Take steps this spring to eliminate extra work in the future.

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oil once a season to prevent it from drying out and rotting. Keep em sharp- Take time out to sharpen cutting tools, spades, shovels and trowels. Use a hone or whetstone for cutting tools and a file for spades, shovels and trowels. You can do much of the maintenance and cleaning of gardening tools yourself. On occasion, however, you might want to enlist the help of a professional with tasks such as sharpening or removing rust from a beloved tool. Even with the best of care, some of your gardening tools may not hold up. Usually this is due to inferior quality. Garden tools are like anything else. You get what you pay for, so buy the best you can afford and take the time to care for it.

And to do it well an architect can help, says the American Institute of Architects. He or she will work with you to determine a plan of action for meeting your goal. It could be a simple change, such as adding flex lighting for ambience, or more complex, like extensive remodeling, to completely redo the space. To find an architect in your local area who will make the most of your space visit http://architectfinder.aia.org.

Did you know?

Women make up a fastgrowing segment of the home improvement market. According to research by Sears, Roebuck & Co. and Investors Business Daily, 53% of married women are responsible for basic house-hold maintenance and repair. Women also comprise 50% of all residential buyers at major home improvement stores and generally spend more than men when shopping. Women also make 85% of all remodeling decisions around the home. As a result, more retailers cater to female shoppers in their home improvement promotions.

An Easy Way To Improve Your Homes Value

(StatePoint) Not all home improvements are created equally if youre looking for a clear return on investment. But according to the National Association of Realtors, a bathroom upgrade is a good bet, yielding a 64.1 percent return on what you spend.

(StatePoint) Maintaining a clean home can seem like an exercise in futility, especially for parents and pet owners. If the constant struggle has you down, its time to explore ways to save time and effort in your cleaning routines. Combat Clutter Clutter can spread faster than wildfire. Avoid the details of your life from taking over every surface by giving everything a proper place. Make clean-up time easy on your kids with big sortable toy bins, and shelves for board games and books. If they forget to put something away, it will be easy for you to pick up after them. Create a mail center and deal with mail as soon as you get home. A nearby recycling bin will encour-

Clean As A Whistle
By Tresa Erickson Whether youre at the beginning of garden season or near the end, you can always count on one thing: dirty tools. Here are some tips for keeping the tools you rely on each season in good condition for years to come. Hose em down- The easiest way to clean your gardening tools is to hose them down after each use, especially if they are covered in dust, mud or chemical residue. Depending upon how caked on the mud is, you might need a scraper. After you have finished hosing off the tools, make sure you give them ample time to dry. Dont put them away wet. This could lead to rust and rot. Stick em in sand- If hosing doesnt remove all of the dirt, sand will. Find a large bucket and fill it with dry sand. Then mix in some motor oil or vegetable oil until the sand is moist. Plunge your tools up and down in the sand to remove any remaining residue. Then wipe them off with a coarse cloth. If the season is over, you can leave your tools in the sand over the winter and give it plenty of time to work. Coat em with oil- Metal and wood require additional care. After cleaning metal tools, coat them lightly with a spray oil or an oily rag. This will help prevent rust and keep them in good working condition. If you have any tools with wooden handles, sand and wipe down the wood with linseed

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A good time to tackle your yard weeding is after a rain. The soil is much softer to pull the weeds out so you can easily get them out with the roots, using just your hands. -Krys in WA

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Offers good on new and unregistered units purchased between 3/1/12-4/30/12. *On select models. See your dealer for details. ** Rates as low as 3.99% for 36 months. Offers only available at participating Polaris dealers. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. Other financing offers are available. Applies to the purchase of all new ATV and RANGER models made on the Polaris Installment Program from 3/1/12 - 4/30/12. Fixed APR of 3.99%, 7.99%, or 10.99% will be assigned based on credit approval criteria. Examples of monthly payments over a 36 month term at 3.99% APR: $29.52 per $1,000 financed and at 10.99% APR: $32.73 per $1,000 financed. Warning: The Polaris RANGER and RANGER RZR are not intended for on-road use. Driver must be at least 16 years old with a valid drivers license to operate. Passengers must be at least 12 years old and tall enough to grasp the hand holds and plant feet firmly on the floor. Drivers and passengers should always wear helmets, eye protection, protective clothing, and seat belts. Always use cab nets. Be particularly careful on difficult terrain. Never drive on public roads or paved surfaces. Never engage in stunt driving, and avoid excessive speeds and sharp turns. Riding and alcohol/drugs dont mix. Check local laws before riding on trails. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. Polaris adult models are for riders 16 and older. For your safety, always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing, and be sure to take a safety training course. For safety and training information in the U.S., call the SVIA at (800) 887-2887. You may also contact your Polaris dealer or call Polaris at (800) 342-3764. 2012 Polaris Industries Inc.

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(MS) -- Feel like cheating? Forget what the inside of your home looks like for just a bit and focus on your homes exterior. The exterior of your home makes a lasting and daily impression on your friends and family, along with your neighbors, says Mark Clement, professional contractor and host of MyFixItUpLife home improvement radio show. While the weather is good, my advice is to get outside and fix up problem areas, work on the landscaping and invest in products that make your homes exterior not only look great, but work great. Clement, who is in the middle of an ongoing renovation of his 100-yearold home in Pennsylvania, recommends assessing your needs and then diving in on projects. On the exterior of the home there are three big, critical areas I recommend people evaluate every year -- the roof, the windows and the entry door. Those are key areas because, along with being visual focal points of the home, they help protect a house from severe weather. And, if you have problems with older windows, doors or roofing tiles, youre looking at higher energy bills and growing problems that can affect your wallet longterm. Clement offers these recommendations for keeping your home exterior in top shape: Roofing Tips: 1. Check your roof yearly (from a ladder or from a neighbors home with binoculars) to determine the condition of your roof. Look for problem areas, such as missing or broken shingles, along with roofing tiles that may be flapping in the wind. These are all indications that a new roof may be in your future. 2. Dont forget to check the sides of your roof. The southern exposure weathers significantly faster than faster than steeper pitches. So again, if your roof has a shallow pitch -- like a shed dormer -- make certain you can clearly see it to get a true indication of the condition of your roof.

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3. If youre in the market for a new roof, investigate polymer roofing tiles as a good option. These impact-resistant slate and shake tiles are manmade in a wide variety of colors. Some tiles have a 50-year limited warranty and are ideal for all types of weather conditions, including hurri-canes and hail. 4. Since the installation of a new roof exceeds the capabilities of most homeowners, make sure to research and hire a professional roofer. Check to make sure your roofer is insured, licensed and certified. Ask for a written job estimate and references along with warranty information for both the roof you select and his installation services. Entry Door Tips: 1. If you can see light around your main entry door from the inside, the door is hard to close or lock, or the door itself is warped, its time to consider a new door.

hand an inch or so away from the bottom and perimeter of your door. If you can feel air moving or a significant cold spot, thats a signal your existing door could benefit from better sealing. 3. Determine what role you would like an entry door to play on your homes exterior. Do you want it to be a focal point with a splash of color? Is it important that you have decorative glass in the door system? Will you need vented sidelites to allow more light and air into your home? Search the web for Door Designer and My Saved Door online tools to help visualize how a new door will look on your home. 4. Think about the weather conditions your homes door faces along with your energy bills. If either run to the extreme, consider replacing your entryway with a highperformance fiberglass door (which has four times more insulation than wood doors). Window Tips: 1. Evaluate the functionality and decorative appeal of your current windows. If you have condensation between glass panes, the windows are hard to open or close, your energy bills are soaring or if there are drafts coming in around the window units, then its time to seriously consider replacement windows. 2. Vinyl framed windows are the category of windows with the highest growth rate in the country. Why? These frames are extremely energy-efficient and some of the best have fusion-welded corners and multi-chambered construction. Plus, maintenance hassles are so low youll forget the horrors of rotting frames, scraping and repainting that come with wood windows. 3. Investigate your window options and stick with a national manufacturer that can stand behind a long-term warranty.

PAGE 7 MONEYSAVER HOME & GARDEN GUIDE APRIL 10, 2012

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* Product Price - Actual retail prices are set by dealer and may vary. Taxes, freight, setup and handling charges may be additional and may vary. Models subject to limited availability. as rated by engine manufacturer Specifications and programs are subject to change without notice. Images may not reflect dealer inventory and/or unit specifications. 2012 Cub Cadet S2000_EPS_2x7

with insect-resistant and rotresistant synthetic louvers can improve the homes appearance and functionality.

2. Even if you cant see light, air may be moving through gaps in the weather stripping at a surprising rate. On a very cold or hot day, hold the back of your

4. Remember that a thermally-efficient window is sealed tightest when its locked. So, to keep your energy bills lowers, dont just close your windows, make sure to lock them. Trim Tips: 1. If you have the opportunity to replace your entry door or windows, make sure to finish off the job with stylish window and door trim. Use lightweight and easy to install, weatherresistant synthetic mouldings, shutters and entryway surrounds. 2. Take an eagles eye look at your home. Most houses have louvers placed high above the attic or garage space to allow ventilation in those areas. And, most houses have wooden louvers that can rot with time. Replacing louvers

3. Wrap it up. Clement recommends that if you have unsightly porch posts you can easily transform them into showpiece parts of your home by using a Decorative Column Wrap Kit. The decorative synthetic pieces can be installed in less than 15 minutes around existing structural posts and columns to give an upgraded look to any home.

climate conditions require far less upkeep than grass or imported plants. Natives are species that grew in an area before people arrived with foreign plant material. Once established, native plants are almost maintenance-free. They do take a couple of years to settle in and get growing. Be sure to water well initially and feed with an organic fertilizer that will turn the soil into a healthy loam. Remember that healthy soil yields healthy plants. Find native plants by contacting your county extension agent or checking with a nursery that carries locally-grown indigenous plants. Dont relocate plants from the wild! Doing so could be illegal, and it would deplete local plant and animal habitats. Added hardscapes like walkways and patios tie

naturalized areas together and minimize lawn areas while maximizing yard usage. Small hardscapes can be installed in a weekend. There are do-ityourself kits in home and garden centers, and many offer How to clinics that help you do the job correctly. Hardscapes tend to buckle and crack over time. Be sure to use an ecofriendly underliner and recycled landscape fabric (made from recycled soda bottles) to prevent settling and shifting. You dont have to reduce your lawn overnight. Tackle the job bit by bit. Every grassy spot you fill with native plants will be a step toward reclaiming your life from the lawn mower and returning your yard to its natural beauty.

Grow Native; Mow Less

(MS) -Do you sometimes feel that lawn care is taking over your life? And depleting your pocketbook? If so, consider shrinking your yard. Turning trouble spots and unused turf areas into low maintenance landscape beds with native plants simplifies lawn care. It also helps the environment and adds a little padding to your pocketbook. Native plants that are acclimated to local soil and

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What To Look For In Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor entertaining areas have always been popular among homeowners. The ability to entertain friends and family or simply relax by yourself is something homeowners cherish, particularly during the warm weather seasons. Finding the right furniture to match your outdoor area, be it a deck, patio or poolside lounging area, is essential to making the most of this special area of the home. When shopping for outdoor furniture, consider the following. * Weight: Unlike furniture inside the home, outdoor furniture will be moved around quite frequently, such as to protect it from inclement weather or changing seasons. As a result, the weight of the furniture bears importance. While you dont want furniture thats too lightweight and will blow away any time a strong gust of wind comes along, its a good idea to choose furniture that isnt too heavy. This makes it easier to move should a storm suddenly appear and it wont require the entire household to help move the furniture into and out of the garage when inclement weather arrives. * Comfort: The whole idea behind an outdoor entertaining area is to have a relaxing place to spend time outside. So be sure to choose furniture thats comfortable and can handle the elements. Metal furniture, for example, might be durable, but such furniture can also get very hot if out in the sun. * Versatility: Many homeowners enjoy changing their homes interior decor from time to time, and it can be just as enjoyable to do the same to a homes exterior decor. That said, look for furniture that can be accented with a variety of accessories, so you can change the look of your outdoor entertaining area easily. * Protection: Protecting exterior furniture from the elements should be a priority. When shopping for outdoor furniture, figure out if protective covering is available or if it will need to be custom made. The latter alternative can be quite expensive, so you might want to consider more generic furniture that comes with standard protective coverings to make it more affordable.

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this study: * Wood releases less greenhouse gases during production; * Wood uses 14 times less fossil fuel than wood/plastic composite decking; and * Wood decking production causes significantly less acid rain, smog and overall ecological impact than wood/plastic composite decking. Additionally, pressuretreated wood comes from sustainable, well-managed forests meaning the industry plants more trees each year than are harvested. Fact is, U.S. forests are healthier and more numerous than they were 100 years ago. Pressure-treated wood is rot- and insect-resistant and readily available in both big-box stores and independent lumber dealers around the U.S. Current tested and approved preservatives are safe for use around children and pets --even veggies in your raised garden beds.

Home Insulation Is A Smart Investment

(MS) -- While investing in retirement is top of mind for many of us, there are other investments that can pay off over a longer period of time, like insulation. Home improvement specialists tell us that we can protect our home investment, too, with a spray foam insulation. This type of insulation can provide a complete air seal with optimal R-values, delivering up to 50 percent in monthly energy savings.

Go Green with Real Wood

(MS) -- So many decking materials in stores today ... which one to choose? If a beautiful, usable, long-lasting deck is your goal -- and youd like to do your part to protect the environment then the choice is obvious: real, natural, authentic wood. Wood has been a part of outdoor living for centuries: the first pine sawmill was at Jamestown about 400 years ago. Look around: so many historic homes and sites feature wood -- because its always been one of the best building products on the market. Wood is ever-present by the seashore (docks, marsh walkways, fishing piers, boardwalks), in the mountains (decks, arbors) and in backyards across the country (decks, gazebos, fences, trellises). Wood plays a starring role in high-traffic places, such as the Santa Monica Pier, the Destin boardwalk in Florida and the Ocean City boardwalk in Maryland. Look all around you at the beauty of wood -- then bring that natural beauty home to your backyard. A recent Life Cycle Assessment (cradle-to-grave study comparing pressure-treated wood with alternative wood/ plastic composite decking) found that wood was, by far, the better product for the environment. A few findings from

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436 S. Union St. Olean 716-373-7368 800-491-4513 finish you desire. You might not be able to find that sassy hot pink or fiesta lime green in the eggshell finish you want. Finally, get some paint samples. Many stores now carry small paint samples that you can purchase for less than the price of a quart. Apply your samples to the wall near each other and check them out at various times of the day under various lighting conditions. enough to comfortably hang over the edge of the bucket youll use to catch the drained water. (If a utility sink is nearby, thats an even better option; run the hose to the sink.) Turn the spigot on slowly, until its fully open. Drain the tank as far as possiblethis could mean detaching the hose and catching the last of the water in a bucket. Then, close the spigot and turn the water supply back on to fill the tank, and turn on the heater. If you had to turn on the other taps in the house, once the water supply is back on, turn the taps off. (You want water to run through them after a shutoff to prevent air from getting trapped in the pipes.) Draining the water heater once or twice a year will remove sediment that can build up due to a number of factors. Its not always done in the wintertime, but if you have a day or two that is above freezing and you can let the heater cool overnight, go for it. HOME TIP: Setting the water heaters temperature to low or warm -- just below 120 F -- will save on the cost of heating and prevent accidental scalding from water thats too hot. (c) 2011 King Features Synd., Inc.

The Color Dilemma

By Tresa Erickson Most of us have been there, done that - perusing paint chips for days on end, selecting a few colors, applying them to the walls and hating the results. We dont have the time, money or desire for a redo, so we tell ourselves to live with the paint colors for a while to see if they grow on us. Sometimes they do. Sometimes they dont, and we go through the process all over again or just learn to live with whats there. How can we ensure we pick the right paint colors the first time around? Unfortunately, there is no surefire way to ensure you pick the right paint colors the first time around. There are some things you can do to improve your odds, however. Study the room long beforehand and determine the purposes you want it to serve. Will it be a place to relax and watch TV, a place to gather with others and eat, or a place to study and work? Read up on the color wheel to determine what color families will make the best backdrop for the purposes you intend for the room. If you want to use the room primarily as a place to relax, for example, reds and yellows might not be a good choice, as these will evoke energy and passion. A soft brown or blue, on the other hand, might do just the trick. Shop around for paint colors. Go to several stores and select as many paint chips as possible. Bring them home, take them to the room you plan to paint and lay them all out on a table. Look at them at various times of the day and in various lighting conditions. Know what each color will look like at any given time. Toss out the chips you dont like and tape the ones remaining to the wall where you can see them throughout the day. Narrow your choices until you have 10 or less. Then research the paint brands and find out how they stack up against each other. Choose the top ones and make sure the colors of choice come in the type of

Continue narrowing your color choices until you have the exact palette you want. If youre still undecided, consider painting some wallboards in the colors in question. Then set the wallboards along the walls in the room you plan to paint and live with them for a while to see which ones appeal to you most. With any luck, you will soon know what you want and love the results!

Doctors from the British College of Osteopathic Medicine have also warned that pruning, mowing and weeding can be dangerous -- even comparable to competitive sports. People dont often associate a garden with danger, but this line of thinking can be dangerous in itself. Hand injuries- Cuts and even finger amputations may result from unfamiliarity with pruning tools, such as hedge clippers or handheld pruners. The design of these tools is so theyll be able to cut through small to moderately sized branches, which means it would not be too difficult for a pruner to snap through a finger bone. Injuries with these tools often occur when the gardener is distracted or the tool slips during use. Pruners may also exacerbate conditions of carpal tunnel syndrome, usually caused by repetitive hand movements, such as typing or repetitious work. The ASSH says that prolonged, repetitive motions, such as weeding or pruning, can cause skin, tendon or nerve irritation. Rotate tasks every 15 minutes to give certain areas of the body a break. The use of batterypowered and ergonomically designed hand tools can alleviate pain and may prevent some injuries. Power tools require less effort for cutting, which may reduce tool slippage or misuse. Bites and bruisesInfection is another injury that people may not associate with gardening. Gardeners often come in contact with many different types of organic matter when gardening. Bacteria, fungi, and insects, as well as chemical fertilizers and pesticides, may be found in soil. Failing to protect hands, especially those with a small abrasion or cut in the skin, enables these substances to potentially enter the body and bloodstream, and infections or rashes may result. Contact with poisonous insects is another concern. Some ants have irritating bites. There are many types of spiders that can be poisonous or inflict a painful bite. Scorpions in dry climates can sting when uncovered in burrows. Wearing gloves, particularly leather ones, can offer protection against thorny objects, insect bites, chemicals, and other skin irritants found in the soil. Sun damage- Spending time outdoors subjects a person to UV exposure each and every time. Gardening unprotected can mean a bad case of sunburn and the potential to develop skin cancer at a later time. Whenever spending time outdoors pruning or just admiring the landscape, gardeners should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat. Try to do the majority of yard work in the early morning or early evening when the suns rays are the least harmful. Additional injuries- Many gardeners fail to ease back into garden activities after the winter respite. Should a

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gardener dive right into strenuous gardening tasks, injuries may ensue. Many hospitals see an influx of back-related injuries, heart attacks, muscle strains, and lacerations come the first stretch of warm weather. Just like an athlete wouldnt start the new season off right in a professional game, so shouldnt a gardener start strenuous activities without gradually warming up to them. Gardening can be quite an enjoyable activity but not if a person is sidelined by an injury. Use caution and common sense whenever landscaping.

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By Samantha Mazzotta Why Drain a Hot-Water Heater? Q: A neighbor of mine said that he drains his hot water heater twice a year to keep it clear. Wont draining the heater damage it? -- Sal P., Tallahassee, Fla. A: Actually, draining the water heater can help it heat water more efficiently and even extend its service life. The trick is to turn it off and let the water cool for a few hours. Then, shut off the water supply to the heater so it wont refill as you drain it. Note: If you need to turn off the water supply to the entire house or part of the house in order to turn off the heaters supply, open the taps on the other sinks in your house. Attach a length of garden hose to the water-heater drain spigot, just long

Protect Your Roof From Ice Dams Next Winter

(MS) -- Is there ice build up on the edge of your roof in the winter? If you havent closed the insulation gaps, major damage can be caused to this part of the house by ice damming. This starts with air leakage and it is preventable. Experts at Decker Home

Garden Injuries Are A Major Concern

Gardening is often described as a relaxing and beneficial hobby regardless of a persons age. While time outdoors in the garden can prove calming and enjoyable, there is a dark side to gardening as well. Namely the injuries that may result from various activities. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, emergency rooms in the United States treat more than 400,000 outdoor garden-tool-related injuries each year. Additionally, the American Society for Surgery of the Hand has issued warnings that caution gardeners about hand-related injuries.

Services tell us that as your heating system produces warm air, it spreads throughout the levels of your house and some of it can escape through the ceiling of the top floor. This air then comes into contact with the inside edge of the roof and, when melting snow falls onto that portion, it can slowly trickle down and freeze. As more ice builds, a dam is created on the edge, and this can cause water to leak into your house. If any portion of the home is made of wood, water is especially harmful to it. This can cause mold and unwelcome, costly repair bills. If ice damming sounds familiar, it is wise to fix the problem at once. Specialized insulation will do it, experts say. Products like the spray foam prevent air leakage and alleviate cases of ice damming. At the same time, high quality spray insulation increases your homes energy efficiency, reduces heating bills and provides a more comfortable indoor environment.

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can purchase these additives or create their own variations from items around the house. It has been said a penny in the water will kill the microorganisms because copper is a fungicide. An aspirin can make the water more acidic. You can also try small amounts of bleach, lemon-lime soda or even antiseptic mouthwash. * Keep flowers away from... Dont place cut flowers next to fruit, which gives off gases as it ripens, causing flowers to age faster. Also, keep the flowers away from direct sunlight and try to keep them in a cool place. * Change the water. Keep on top of water maintenance by changing it at least every 2 to 3 days to maintain good water health. Be sure to replace the additives each time you change the water. By following a few strategies you can keep fresh-cut flowers lasting longer for enjoyment.

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191 Main St., Roulette, PA 16746 Ph:(814) 544-7558 trical work, or mold remediation, require permits issued by the town, province or city in which the work will be taking place. The purpose of permits and subsequent inspections is often questioned by homeowners looking to circumvent the system. However, building permits are required to ensure public safety, health and welfare as they are affected by building construction, structural strength, zoning, and code requirements. In essence, building permits are how the government regulates safety and protects both current and future residents of the property. In many cases, homeowners will need to visit the municipal building in their respective towns and apply for a permit. The permit may not immediately be issued. Oftentimes, there is a waiting period during which the projects legality and safety is examined. Once the project is approved, the applicant will be able to file for the actual permit(s). There is usually a fee or fees for permit application, which covers any clerical work. time of the inspection. If the work passes, an approval will be given and put on record. If the work fails, applicable repairs will have to be made and a reinspection will be scheduled. Should a home be put on the market, all permits may need to be on file or in the homeowners possession in order for a certificate of occupancy to be issued to the new buyer. Failure to have permits can hold up the process or result in fines. Protection- Homeowners about to begin a project also need to emphasize safety. There are a number of things that can be on hand to make a work environment safer. These include: * Eye protection: This is especially important when working with flying debris, cutting items, mixing caustic chemicals, etc. * Respirator or face mask: Cover the nose or mouth when there is dust or debris in the air that can enter the lungs. When working with toxic fumes, such as when using spray paints or chemical lubricants, a respirator can offer clean air. * Boots: Proper footwear ensures protection should an item fall on the foot or when walking where nails or other sharp items are located. * Fire extinguisher: A fire extinguisher should be nearby in the event of a mishap. * First aid kit: An abrasion or cut may occur, requiring prompt care. * Gloves: When the hands need to be protected or extra traction on surfaces is required, gloves can be a necessity. * Headphones: Safety headphones can protect the ears against loud, consistent noises from power equipment and tools. * Locks: A locked cabinet can store tools, paints, chemicals, and other improvement supplies so that young children or pets wont have access. When homeowners take the time to plan, obtain permits, and secure the needed protection for a job, they help ensure a safer job that is done correctly.

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Every home project begins with an idea and ends with the culmination of the job. In between, there are three main components of an improvement project that can mean the difference between success and frustration: Planning, permits and protection. Planning- The initial stage of a renovation is the planning stage. Planning is when a homeowner works through the concept of the project and determines what is necessary to complete the task. Many people find it helpful to write out plans and draw up the concept on paper. This doesnt require expensive architectural software. A simple piece of graph paper plotted with measurements and a sketch is often sufficient for small projects. If the job will be expansive and require an architect or engineer, he or she will often provide a technical drawing. If the project focuses more on decorating than building, some find it helpful to create a design board. This is where fabric swatches, paint color samples, pictures of furniture and accessories, and any other components of the room are put together. Having a design board enables the homeowner to go to the store with board in tow and match up items to things in the store. Another part of the planning stage is establishing a budget and determining the projects financing. It can be helpful to make a list of all income and expenses and find out how much funding is left over for a project. When getting estimates on the work, whether it will be done by a contractor or a DIY project, the homeowner should then make a list of approximate costs (rounding up) and then compare it against the available funds. Permits- Many projects, especially those involving building, demolition, elec-

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However, do not to remove the thorns from roses, as this tends to shorten their shelf life. * Choose young flowers. Mature flowers may have peaked and begun to make room for a new round of

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How To Maintain Fresh-Cut Flowers

Fresh flowers serve many purposes. A bouquet of flowers can be a gift on a special holiday or birthday. Some people apologize with flowers, while others use flowers to convey feelings of love or appreciation. Many people like to display fresh-cut flowers in their homes because their beauty can brighten the mood indoors. Others plant rows and rows of flowers in a garden with the express purpose of cutting them and bringing them into the home. While outdoor flowers can remain beautiful and bountiful outside, once they are cut, there is a limited amount of time before they begin to wilt and wither. But there are ways to prolong the life of cut flowers to enjoy their beauty as long as possible. * Cut correctly. Creating a large enough surface area on the stem for the uptake

of water is essential. That is why florists recommend cutting the stem on a slant to expose more area to the water. * Place flowers in water immediately. Some people advocate cutting the stems while theyre actually submerged in water. However, you will probably be fine if you simply recut the stems on flowers you brought inside and immediately put them in a vase of water. The key is not to let the tip of the stem dry out or close up with an air bubble, sap or other substances, preventing the uptake of water. Be sure to use lukewarm water so as not to shock the blooms. * Remove leaves. Take off the leaves of the plant that would end up underwater in the vase. Exposure to the water could cause the leaves to rot and fall off, creating algae or sludge in the vase water. It also may breed extra bacteria or attract small insects to the water.

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blooms, so try to choose young buds or blooms that just opened so that youll have an opportunity to enjoy them longer. * Create a viable water atmosphere. Once a fresh flower is cut and a stem is placed in water, bacteria and fungi can start to grow almost immediately. These microscopic organisms can clog the small tubes inside the stem that suck up water for nourishment. Many florists send home a packet of water additive to alleviate some problems in the indoor environment. The packet will contain a biocide that kills bacteria and fungi. There will be an acidifier as well as sugar. The acidifier makes the water more acidic to allow better absorption of water up the stem. The sugar is a food source for the flowers. Homeowners who cut flowers from their gardens

Work should not begin until a permit is received, and then the permit generally has to be placed in plain sight, such as in a window of the building. Depending on building codes, inspections of the work may need to take place after all of the project is completed or during certain phases. For example, the building of a deck may require inspections after footings are installed and secured, and before the upper portions of the decking materials are attached. If an inspection takes place afterward, the inspector will be looking for key code issues to determine whether the work was completed successfully. If a contractor was used, he or she may have to be present at the

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The 7 Easiest Vegetables to Grow at Home

Rising costs at the supermarket and worries about unhealthy pesticides or preservatives on foods has led many people to start a vegetable garden at home.

Growing vegetables is easier than one would think. Plus, you don't need an expansive plot of land to grow a garden. Many popular varieties can be grown right in containers or in compact spaces. Perhaps you're wondering what vegetables are the easiest to grow if this is

your first attempt at a foodbased garden. There are several to try. 1. Tomatoes: While commonly considered vegetables, tomatoes are actually fruits. But tomatoes can be an integral part of a vegetable garden. Tomatoes are high in lycopene and other antioxidants. There are also myriad varieties to tempt your palate. Tomatoes can be planted after the soil has thawed and there is no other chance for frost. They'll require plenty of sunlight. Fruit will be available to harvest toward the latter part of the summer. 2. Zucchini: Zucchini are an Italian squash variety that appear similar to a cucumber. They can be green or yellow in coloring. This vegetable is full of potassium, folate and manganese, making it a great addition to your menu. Zucchini take about a month to mature and be ready to harvest. They grow on vines and produce large flowers

before bearing fruit. 3. Beets: Root vegetables like beets and radishes work well in the garden as well. The bright purple color of beets indicates they are full of many essential vitamins and minerals. Toss beets in salads or use them in the traditional soup, borscht. 4. Carrots: Another subterranean-growing veggie, carrots require moist soil as they germinate, but as the plants mature need less water. Carrots can be enjoyed in a number of ways and are a staple of cooking year-round. 5. Peas: Peas grow inside the pods of legumes. These plants like moist soil that drains well. Water frequently but make sure the soil doesn't become flooded if you want peas to flourish. 6. Peppers: Peppers come in so many varieties it's easy to find ones that appeal to your taste in cooking. Generally peppers thrive in soil high in magnesium. Using compost and Epsom salt in the soil can help achieve the environment peppers desire. 7. Lettuce: Lettuce is another staple and the basis for many salad dishes. Lettuce also tops sandwiches and can be filled and wrapped for other recipe ideas. Seeds should be planted between 8 and 16 inches apart. Water in the morning instead of at night to prevent disease from developing.

PAGE 11

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garden shed, make sure you take everything into account from the shingles to the foundation. Many garden shed kits call for a foundation. Make sure you accommodate for that in your budget. Garden sheds can make for a great asset to your home and more room in your garage. Just make sure you do your homework and find the right style and size for you. Garden sheds can be expensive, and this is one decision you dont want to live to regret. Once all is said and done and everything is in place, make sure you lock it all up to deter thieves, youngsters and anyone else you want to keep out.

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By Tresa Erickson Youre an avid gardener, with a plethora of tools and equipment to prove it. Your garage, in fact, is bursting at the seams with all of your gardening gadgets, and your family is starting to yell about all of the clutter. Its high time you got organized and looked into the purchase of a garden shed. Garden sheds come in all styles and sizes from small, plastic, freestanding units to large, wooden, bi-leveled barns. You will want a style that complements your landscape and is large enough to accommodate your storage needs. To determine the style and size of garden shed you will need, first weed through your garden tools and equipment to see what you plan to keep and to store. You may discover you dont need a shed after all or need a rather large shed with a workbench for the multiple projects youve always got going on. Next, check out your landscape to determine where the shed would go and what materials would hold up best there. If you live in area that receives a lot of rain, a metal garden shed might not be a good idea. Finally, review any ordinances in place on garden sheds. You may need approval from your homeowners association as well as the city. You might even need a permit. When you have a style and size in mind, you can start the actual shopping. Look online as well as instore. You will find a wide range of styles from freestanding units to kits to install to ready-made buildings you can buy onsite and have moved to your landscape. Should you go with the latter, make sure the delivery truck can get to the shed site. Depending upon how handy you are, you might even want to build your own garden shed. There are several building plans available. Budget, of course, will always be a factor, and you should shop around for the best price. Should you choose to build your own

trees are most commonly grown as medium to large trees.

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What Type of Tree Is That in the Yard?

Though it might have been common knowledge back in grade school, there's a good chance you might have forgotten what kind of tree that is outside your kitchen window. Even those with a green thumb might not remember the differences between types of trees. For those who need a cheat sheet, the following is a breakdown of the some of the more common types of trees you might have around your property. * Dogwood. Dogwoods boast colorful autumn leaves, making them a favorite of those looking to trees to add aesthetic appeal to their property.

* Evergreen. Any plant, tree or shrub that maintains its leaves year-round. Leaf persistence can last from as short as one year to as long as 40 years, though the average is closer to five years. * Willow. Willows are most common in moist areas, along floodplains or riverbanks. Willows are rapid-growing and boast very simply flowers that lack petals. * Birch. Birch trees produce separate, abundant, tiny male and female flowers in dense clusters. Birch trees are generally most common in arctic regions in the northern hemisphere.

* Ash. Ash are generally valued for their timber and recently began being a favorite choice of wood among baseball players for their bats. Characterized by small, greenish flowers, ash trees in North America have been subject to disease for several years, rarely living beyond 10 years as result.

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* Maple. Maple trees are very common throughout the milder regions of the northern hemisphere. Leaves are similar to those depicted on the Canadian flag, and these deciduous A frugal tumbler can be made from a large, inexpen-sive, clean garbage can with a lid. Simply drill small holes all over the can. Put a layer of potting soil on the bottom and then add your debris. Rotate occasionally -Judi

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effort. The cleaner also kills foodborne germs that contaminate food preparation surfaces, including Salmonella and E.coli in just 45 seconds. It can also be used on propane tanks, countertops, stainless steel, painted surfaces, BBQ covers, and ceramic and tempered glass. Remember, when cooking food on the grill, do not reuse marinade after it has touched raw meat or poultry. Promptly scrape down the grill surface while the barbecue is still warm to remove most of the drippings and scraps of food for easier clean-up. Patio Furniture The warm weather enables people to venture outdoors and commune with nature. Prepping the patio furniture for a new season of use often involved a lot of elbow grease and time. But Patio Furniture Cleaner cleans, kills germs, helps control mold and mildew and destroys bacterial odors in a matter of minutes while digging out grease, grime, fingerprints, bird droppings, suntan lotion, and other tough stains from outdoor and poolside furniture. The key benefit is its ability to kill harmful germs like Salmonella enterica, E. coli and Athlete's Foot Fungus. Tackle spring cleaning projects with ease.

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*Discuss subcontractors. Some landscape architects will handle the project entirely on their own, while others might subcontract part of the project. Determine who will be performing the project and how the hiring of subcontractors might affect the cost of the project. * Discuss fees and get a fee schedule. How the project will be paid for is an important thing to discuss when interviewing landscape architects. Each contractor might have a different fee structure, so you will want the one thats best suited to you. If a series of payments will be made, get a fee schedule so theres no confusion down the road. * Get references. A professional landscape architect should have a list of references at the ready for potential customers. When contacting references, be sure to ask how satisfied they are with the finished product and how the project went with regards to scheduling and fees. When talking to a previous customer, also ask how amenable the landscape architect was to their ideas and how much he or she involved the homeowner in the project. * Make sure the contractor is licensed. In many communities, landscape architects must be licensed. This information is public, so always verify if a landscape architect is licensed prior to making any final decisions or signing a contract.

Tips When Hiring A Landscape Architect

A well-maintained landscape is important to many homeowners. In addition to adding to a homes aesthetic appeal, a lush landscape can also help increase a homes resale value. Oftentimes, homeowners without much experience tending to lawns and gardens hire a landscape architect to do the job for them. First-time homeowners on the lookout for a landscape architect should consider the following tips to make the most of that process. * Find a professional who will work with you. Though you might not plan to do any of the landscaping or gardening, that doesnt mean you wont have a vision of what you want the property to look like. A landscape architect should be receptive to your ideas and willing to work with your vision while keeping the channels of communication open throughout the project. * Look for a professional with some experience. A landscape architect should be ready and willing to discuss his or her previous work experience. Ask to see photos of previous work or even local addresses where work was done so you can see the finished product in person. Landscape architects without extensive work histories arent necessarily unqualified, but homeowners should weigh the projects such architects have completed considerably.

How To Get A Cleaner, Healthier Home This Spring

(MS) -- Springtime is the best time to get your home and outdoor equipment ready for the approaching warm weather, and the sooner you start the sooner you will be ready to enjoy the spring and summer months. Here are some suggestions to make your home as healthy and as clean as possible. Get rid of mold and mildew When the house is closed up tight for the winter, it's easy for mold and mildew to take hold and grow, and such growths can adversely affect your respiratory system while potentially causing sinus congestion and eye irritation. Mold and mildew growth also creates unsightly stains, damaging paint and wall finishes as a result. Spray Nine(R) Cleaner/Disinfectant is very effective at controlling mold

and mildew, addressing not only existing mold and mildew around the house, but also preventing any future problems. Further prevent mildew by venting bathrooms or opening a window to dry out the room after showering. Also check for and remedy any leaks that can contribute to mold and mildew growth. In attics, basements and utility rooms, consider the use of a desiccant, which will remove moisture from the air. Protect against allergens, viruses and bacteriaEffectively cleaning a home can involve several preventive measures to keep everyone free from viruses and bacteria. Cleaner/Disinfectants takes just 45 seconds to disinfect a surface of harmful bacteria, including those associated with food poisoning, whooping cough and even infections such as MRSA. Registered as a hospital grade disinfectant by the Environmental Pro-

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tection Agency, some sprays take even less time to disinfect a surface against viruses, doing so in just 30 seconds while protecting a home's inhabitants from viruses including Influenza A2, Poliovirus Type I, a type of polio, and others that can cause the common cold and respiratory illnesses. Another way to redue the spread of illness is to make sure everyone in the household washes their hands when coming in from school, work or from shopping. Say 'Au Revoir' to Odor Readying a home for fresh, spring days also entails ridding its interior of odor. Homeowners can eliminate odors in their kitchens, carpets and even their musty basements, ensuring the home is odorfree for the long winter months ahead. In lieu of smoke and pet odors, Odor Eliminator provides a fresh floral scent and can even be added to compatible cleaning solutions to freshen the home as you clean. Think about adding houseplants as well. Plants are natural air filters and can go a long way toward cleaning the air of contaminants and odors. Outdoor equipment The warm-weather season is also barbecue season. Spray BBQ Grill Cleaners do double duty as a heavy-duty cleaner and a hard surface disinfectant. It easily dissolves grease, fat and burned-on food for quick cleanup with less

Save Money On Energy Bills

(MS) -- Home is where the heart is, where families grow, and generally where the most of our leisure time is spent. Working with green technology for the best insulation will keep your house warm, welcoming, comfortable and cozy -- and will save you money, all at the same time. Insulation advancements are on the horizon at all times, experts say. Why are homeowners turning to spray foam insulation? Experts tell us that older insulation types, such as fibreglass, will settle, compact and sag over time, decreasing their insulation properties. Spray foam insulation is energy efficient and it has a high Rvalue due to its ability to seal and insulate at the same time. The spray foam solutions are created with water blowing agents and renewable and recycled content, which help reduce greenhouse gas emissions to support a healthier environment. Spray foam insulation can be used in new home construction or additions and insulation upgrades to existing homes (attics, crawlspaces) during remodeling projects. With spray foam insulation you can maintain healthy indoor air while reducing your HVAC equipment needs and saving on energy bills. In addition, homeowners can conserve construction materials without the need

Black Belt Birds

I was having a very big problem with birds trying to nest on our small front porch. There were always bird droppings on the porch. I thought of how those fake snakes scare them away. I didnt have one so I took one of my husbands black belts and hung it on the overhang. I have not had any problems since doing this. G in New Creek, WV

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