Everything Home March 2010

Everything Home/Spring 2010 | 352 | Everything Home/Spring 2010


4 | Everything Home/Spring 2010

Spring Decorating

6 Garden Living; Bringing the outdoors in

9 Lighten up for spring; redecorating the home for spring

10 How to update your bedroom

11 New from DwellStudio for Target

12 Expert decorating tips

Home Maintenance

14 Checklist: Spring Maintenance

15 Spring-Cleaning Checklist

Home improvement16 Small Bathroom Design

18 Kitchens: Counter Intelligence

Exterior Maintenance20 Roofs now take on an artistic look

21 If it’s not leaking, why does my roof need to be replaced?

22 How can I fix my splintering deck?

Lawn and Garden24 Expert tips for creating a beautiful landscape

Real Estate26 Understanding your credit opens the door to

home-buying success

SPRING 2010

Spring is a time of new beginnings. Flowers and plants are bloom-ing, the sun is shining and the weather is finally getting warmerafter winter's chill. So why not bring some of spring's beauty intoyour home so you can enjoy it day after day?

As a homeowner, you have already made one of the most importantinvestments that you can make for your family’s future. But itshouldn’t stop there. Owning a home is not a static thing—as youno doubt know. If you make smart choices about the improvementsyou do to your home, not only will it give you years of enjoyment,but a very nice return on investment should decide to sell.

Our spring edition of Everything Home is full of ideas, big andsmall, to renew and refresh your home inside and out. We hope youenjoy our new look as well!

PUBLISHER:

Jeff Vanderbeck

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR:

Mike Davis

SECTION DESIGN: Special Publications

ManagerTracie Vanderbeck

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Jamie Beckett

Daniel Bush

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Ashley Smith

Krista Duty

Lynn Massey

Mellisa Keller

Tony Thacker

A Special Supplement to the Appalachian News-Express201 Caroline Avenue, Pikeville, Kentucky

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Fresh Ideasfor SpringBy Tracie Vanderbeck

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Contents

Everything Home/Spring 2010 | 33


Bringing theoutdoorsinsideThe return of birds and bird-song are one of spring's mostwelcome signs. This year,retailers are acknowledgingthis with pretty avian motifson all sorts of home decor.

Garden Living

spring decorating




The return of birds and birdsong are one of spring's mostwelcome signs. This year, retailers are acknowledging this with prettyavian motifs on all sorts of home decor.

Pottery Barn's collection features sparrow printed bedding and tablelinens, embroidered and printed pillows, and even a wall canvas withan antique bird illustration. There are stoneware birdbath servingbowls, and mugs with wee "nests" tucked into the handles.

CB2's spring line features a striking accent pillow designed by artistDouglas Sheran, who is a member of Creativity Explored, a nonprofitvisual arts center for the developmentally disabled in San Francisco.His bird illustration, in a swath of rich green over black and white,resembles Japanese brush painting.

There are some new takes on popular hues this season. Two in particu-lar look especially fresh:

— Blue.The adaptable blues are back in a big way. They're popping up all oversoft furnishings and tabletop pieces. Bright versions give a room abracing shot of color, while muted versions, paired with white orchalky yellows, are soothing. For inspiration, check out the Grandeurand Harmony palettes in Olympic Paint's new Audubon collection.

Anthropologie offers a beautiful ceramic knob festooned with brightblue dots; a set of those would refresh the kitchen cabinets. There's thecharmingly named Grace towel collection too, in blues and pinks,embroidered with springy flowers.

French blue and Wedgwood blue are elegant tones: Homegoods' bluecrocodile-printed leather slipper chair looks swanky, but is priced mod-estly.

Pottery Barn's soft, silky blue throw will comfort on a rainy spring day.Z Gallerie is stocking a French blue filigreed urn, and a beautiful resinplaque embossed with a realistic blue chrysanthemum.

Pier 1 and Homegoods have several unusual bowls in their spring col-lections that look like melted blue beach glass, as well as new versionsof the multifunctional ceramic stool, this year in vibrant turquoise.

— Blush.That ethereal pinky peach color often called blush is another importantshade for spring fashion; it'll be just as big in decor.

With any of the new creamier pastels and light woods, it's romanticand cottage-y — Pier 1 has a floral-printed glass vase and a delicatelyruffled toss pillow that fit the bill.

With black or chocolate accents, blush reads modern; its versatilitymakes it appealing.

Burke Decor has Simrin's rose-shaped placemats, embroidered withmetallic threads; while inspired by vintage fabrics, they have a nicegraphic quality that would suit a contemporary place setting just asnicely. And Burke's luscious Plum Pretty Sugar duvet set in pink toneslooks just like ribbon candy — sweet, like the first taste of spring.

Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.

Burke Decor, rug, throw, planter, silk pillows, placemats.Anthropologie; knobs, door knobs.Pier 1; ruffle pillow.Pottery Barn; bedding, serving bowls.



The winter doldrums are over and the sun is shining again. Letyour home be an extension of this time of year by kicking outreminders of the depressing winter and welcome in the cheerysigns of spring.

11.. CCOOLLOORRFFUULL PPIILLLLOOWWSSThis is a cheap and easy way to brighten up any room. Put the darkheavy pillows in storage and invite Spring into your home with a fewlovely yellow, green or pink colored pillows.

22.. RREEPPAAIINNTTNothing changes a room more dramatically than a fresh coat of paint.Brighten up the mood from dark and dreary to fresh and fun with thepower of paint.

33.. CCHHAANNGGEE YYOOUURR WWIINNDDOOWW DDRREESSSSIINNGGSpring is all about light and airy so take down the heavy drapes andsun blocking blinds and put up some sheer, light colored curtainsinstead.

44.. FFRREESSHH FFLLOOWWEERRSSFlowers are a definite sign of new life, so bring some inside yourhome. Not only with the sight of fresh flowers brighten up a room,but the pleasant fragrance will help set the tone for Spring.

55.. PPUUTT AAWWAAYY TTHHEE BBLLAANNKKEETTSSYou won’t need to curl up under a think blanket any longer, so putthose in storage with your dark pillows and bring out light, thin,brightly colored throws for those cool and breezy Spring nights.

66.. WWHHAATT WWAASS OOLLDD IISS NNEEWW AAGGAAIINNYour dark and brooding chairs and sofas may have been comfortingduring those long cold months, but now that it’s Spring, they’re justdepressing. Lighten up your furniture by getting light colored or floralpatterned slipcovers. It’s a heck of a lot cheaper than buying new fur-niture and it’s just as effective.

77.. MMOORREE TTHHAANN PPAAIINNTT OONN YYOOUURR WWAALLLLSSArt can also affect the tone of your room. When the weather breaks,look for images that more accurately reflect the time of year. Photosor paintings of landscapes and florals will assist in putting you in amuch better mind set.

88.. TTHHRROOWW OOUUTT TTHHEE RRUUGGSSOkay, maybe don’t throw them out, but do put them with the otherheavy accents in your home – in storage. Throw rugs help keep thingscozy and toasty, especially if you have hard wood floors, but it’swarm now, so get rid of the stuffy carpets and lay down colorful,lightweight rugs instead.

9. ROOM WITH A VIEWDuring the winter we like to build roaring fires to keep us warm,therefore our furniture is usually centered around the mantel. Sinceyou won’t be using your fireplace in the next several months,rearrange your furniture so you are facing a lovelier view, like that ofyour garden.

1100.. TTAAKKEE IITT OOUUTTSSIIDDEESpring is the perfect time to get your outdoor areas ready for guests.Spruce up your porch or deck and make it a pleasant place to sit andrelax with your friends well into the Summer months. Coordinatecomfortable furniture with bright accents and place handy tablesaround to place cool drinks on.

Courtesy of ARA Content


spring decorating

Redecorating the home for spring

LLIIGGHHTTEENN UUPP FFOORR SSPPRRIINNGG!!


10| Everything Home/Spring 2010

spring decorating

HOW TO... UPDATE YOUR BEDROOM

STEP 1: PAINT AND REDECO-RATE YOUR WALLSPainting is one of the simplest and most effectiveways to alter a room. Cover the entire wall witha flat paint color. Then, tape off sections of thewall to make large stripes, either vertical or hori-zontal. Paint inside the tape with the same colorbut in a semi-gloss finish. Greens, tans and graysare currently trending, but Tuscan andMediterranean themes boasting greens, browns,golds and oranges are also strutting their wayinto bedrooms. More tips: How to paint stripeson a wall.

Not into stripes? Linda Dempsey, customer serv-ice associate at Lowe’s, recommends affixing achair railing on two walls as a focal point. Putwallpaper above or below it, and paint the otherside.

STEP 2: CUT A RUG -- ANDCHANGE YOUR FLOORINGJamie Conway, paint and home décor departmentmanager at Lowe’s, says wood flooring is all therage in master bedrooms. Opt for dark or lightwood in 2-inch-wide interlocking planks. Shealso suggests adding a new rug to the bedroomand changing it seasonally for constant variation.

STEP 3: CHANGE YOUR WIN-DOW COVERINGSStill have those 80s blue floral curtains adorningyour windows? Replace them with new curtainsand coordinating pillows, and add a decorativecurtain rod that extends beyond the width of the window so the cur-tains don’t actually close, advise Conway and Dempsey.

Both ladies agree that new blinds are imperative and say wood, fauxwood and cellular (insulating) blinds are the current design infatuationof homeowners. People are gravitating toward wood tones with thenatural grain to match their cabinets.

STEP 4: SPRUCE UP YOUR DÉCORTransform the mood and style of your bedroom by altering the light-ing. Get creative with hanging pendant lights, revamp the classic floorlamp, or go modern with organic table lamps.

Hang floating shelves for contemporary style or arrange decorative 1-foot-square mirrors in a pattern on a painted wall. And don’t forget tochange your hardware -- dresser knobs, door handles and ceiling fan -- to match your other items.

STEP 5: GET SOME NEW FURNITURE, WELL,SORT OF…You don’t have to buy all new furniture for a new bedroom. Conwaysuggests purchasing faux crackle paint for stylish throwback furniture.The faux finish can be used to age any furniture that has a woodenfinish for an antique or shabby chic look. Your new furniture neverlooked so old!

Tired of your master bedroom's blah style? You don't have to spend a fortune to get a designer room.Follow these five easy steps to spruce up your master bedroom on your own!



The latest collection of DwellStudio for Target bedding hit stores onFebruary 14th, and this batch of bedding is their best yet. The newdesigns feature a palette of blues, chocolate brown and pops of yel-low. The designs are inspired by nature and far-flung destinations withnames like 'Casablanca' and 'Algiers.' (Above: Mandala Shams andQuilts, $25 to $80, Target.)

Check out a sneak peek at all the new DwellStudio for Target designs:

Photo: DwellStudio for TargetBird in Vine Shams and Quilts, $25 to $80, Target.

Photo: DwellStudio for TargetDwellStudio for Target Decorative Throw Pillows, $25 each, Target

Photo:DwellStudio forTargetCasablancaShams andQuilts, $25 to$80, Target.

Photo: DwellStudio for TargetAlgiers Comforter Sets, $70 for full/queen, $80 for king, Target.


spring decorating

NNEEWW FFRROOMM DDWWEELLLLSSTTUUDDIIOO FFOORR TTAARRGGEETTDwellStudio for Target debuts four new bedding patterns and throw pillows.

real estate

(ARA) - With many signs pointing to the beginnings of a recovery inthe housing market, potential home buyers can still find plenty ofselection, low prices and low interest rates. If you're thinking of buy-ing a home, now might be the right time, but before you contact a realestate agent or apply for a mortgage, your top priority should bechecking your credit report to see if your credit is in good shape.

Credit - specifically misuse and misunderstanding of credit - spurredthe housing crisis, many experts agree. The consequences haveincluded tighter standards from lenders and the need for borrowers tobetter understand how to use credit wisely.

Interest rates remain low and those with good credit will be betterpositioned to take advantage of the opportunities currently available inthis unique housing market. A good credit report and score can opendoors for you in the real estate world, and empower you to secure thebest loan and terms possible before you ever tour a single house.Being preapproved for an affordable mortgage can help you movequickly to secure a deal when you find the home of your dreams.

If you've already assessed your finances to determine how much mort-gage you can afford, you're ready for the next step - making sure yourcredit is in top shape to help you get the best possible loan.

Understanding your score and what it means Lenders consider your credit score and your current credit reportwhen deciding whether or not you're a good credit risk. Your creditscore is a number generated by using statistical models that factor inelements from your credit report. The number can change when infor-mation on your credit report changes and it's calculated at the time alender requests a copy of your credit report. Different lenders may usedifferent scoring methods, so your score may vary from lender tolender.

Because credit scores are objective and are based on the informationin your credit report, they are fairer than the old opinion-based waysof determining a person's risk level. Your score is a prediction of yourlikelihood to repay debt responsibly, based on your past credit historyand current credit status.

Before you begin contacting potential lenders, check out your creditreport, which can be accessed online at Web sites likeFreeCreditReport.com.

Know what's on your credit report Your credit report is the other major piece of information a lender willconsider when deciding whether or not to give you a mortgage loan.Your credit report is basically a summary of your financial behavior,including how you've used credit in the past and how well you man-age repaying debt. The information on your report comes from credi-tors, public records and other reliable sources, which report it to thecredit bureaus through automated processes.

Credit reports generally include personal data such as variations onyour name, your driver's license number, Social Security number,birth date, current and past employers, and current and past addresses.You'll also find a listing of your credit accounts, when each accountwas opened and your payment history for each. If you've beeninvolved in court action like bankruptcy or monetary judgments, thisinformation will likely appear on your report as well.

Your report will also show past requests for your credit reports(inquiries) that might come from lenders, insurers, employers orstores. Too many inquiries on your report might make potentiallenders think you are trying to overspend, so think carefully beforeapplying for new credit; inquiries stay on your report for two years.

Because your credit report changes every time you use credit, it paysto enroll in a credit monitoring product. Web sites likeFreeCreditReport.com make it easy to track both your score over timeand monitor your credit report, ensuring you know what's on yourreport before a potential lender looks at it.

Buying a home is likely the largest investment you'll ever make - onethat will impact your credit for many years to come. Before you jumpinto the process of applying for a loan to buy a home, it pays tounderstand credit, review your report and know your score.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Understanding your credit opens thedoor to home-buying success

While there are plenty of books and magazines that illustrate dec-orating styles that you can use in your home, there are also a few"decorating don'ts" that you should keep in mind when decorat-ing and accessorizing your home. While you should feel free toexpress yourself creatively when decorating your home, by keep-ing these few guidelines in mind, you will avoid some of the pit-falls that can be detrimental to the overall effect of your decorat-ing efforts.

DDOONN''TT CCHHOOOOSSEE YYOOUURR PPAAIINNTT CCOOLLOORR FFIIRRSSTTThere are an almost limitless number of paint colors available, andmany paint stores will even custom-match a paint shade from anyswatch of fabric or item that you can bring in. It's much more difficultto find a sofa that looks good with the paint color you have boughtthan to find a paint that looks good with the sofa fabric. Unless youare using a neutral wall color, choosing your paint color first will limityour options.

DDOONN''TT NNEEGGLLEECCTT YYOOUURR RROOOOMM''SS NNAATTUURRAALL FFOOCCAALL PPOOIINNTTIf you have a room that has a natural focal point in it, such as a fire-place or large picture window, enhance it instead of ignoring it. If youneglect to enhance the room's focal point, you will be missing out onthe opportunity for a lot of design pizzazz.

NNOOTT EEVVEERRYYTTHHIINNGG HHAASS TTOO MMAATTCCHH"Cookie cutter" rooms where everything coordinates perfectly tend tobe a little dull. Instead, work towards a color scheme for the room thatincludes a couple of coordinating accent colors, combined with a cou-ple of neutral shades. Using this color scheme as a base, you can com-bine furniture of various styles and accessories that complement eachother but do not match, as well as adding other styles to create aninteresting eclectic look.

DDOONN''TT PPLLAACCEE AALLLL YYOOUURR FFUURRNNIITTUURREE AAGGAAIINNSSTT TTHHEE WWAALLLLSSDon't place all the furniture in a room directly against the walls unlessyou are really limited by the room's size or shape. Instead, createinteresting groupings of furniture within the room, which will give awarm and more inviting look.

DON'T CREATE DIFFICULT WALKWAYSAlways design the layout of a room to create a good flow through theroom, without creating awkward corners and obstacles. A clear walk-way will make the room feel better designed.

DDOONN''TT DDIISSPPLLAAYY TTOOOO MMAANNYY KKNNIICCKKKKNNAACCKKSSWhile personal accessories and mementos can add a nice touch to aroom, using too many small decorating items and knickknacks willsimply make a room look and feel cluttered. Instead, display a few ata time, and create interesting collections of items as opposed to scat-tering items all over the room

DON'T ADD FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES THAT DON'TSERVE A PURPOSEEverything you use in decorating your room should be there for a rea-son, whether it's because it is useful or because you especially like itor find it attractive. Using fewer items in a room as opposed to moreis often a more effective decorating approach.

DDOONN''TT UUSSEE CCOOLLOORRSS OORR IITTEEMMSS TTHHAATT ""CCLLAASSHH""While eclectic decorating can be a fun and stylish way to accessorizea room, some colors and styles of items just do not look good togeth-er. Avoid using items together that are just plainly mismatched in anunattractive fashion.

DDOONN''TT BBUUYY FFUURRNNIITTUURREE AANNDD AACCCCEESSSSOORRIIEESS BBAASSEEDD SSOOLLEELLYYOONN PPRRIICCEEDon't always buy the cheapest of everything. In many cases, youwould be better off to put off the purchase until you save up enoughmoney to get a better quality item, especially if it is something thatwill be used a lot, such as a sofa.

DDOONN''TT LLEETT OOTTHHEERRSS DDIICCTTAATTEE YYOOUURR DDEECCOORRAATTIINNGG SSTTYYLLEEUnless you live alone, you will undoubtedly need to coordinate yourdecorating preferences with at least one other person. However, neverlet somebody else totally sway you when making decorating deci-sions.

Courtesy ARA Contnet


decorating

EXPERT DECORATING TIPS10 Home decorating don'ts



lawn and garden

By Michelle Goff

Landscaper Randy Thacker believes that when it comes to plants, lessmight be more.

"You have all of these favorite plants and you want to put every plantyou like around your house," notes Thacker, owner of Top QualityLandscaping.

"You're better off using complimentary colors, shapes, textures andsizes and not overcrowding. You're probably not going to be able toput every plant you like around your house."

Thacker, who has 30 years of landscaping experience, feels the sameway about using lighting as accent or along walkways.

"Don't overdo it," he advises. "You don't want an airport runway. Tenfeet between every light is good, so instead of 15 lights, you havemaybe seven or eight."

Before opening Top Quality 25 years ago, Thacker worked at AmPatand his years as a landscaper has taught him to appreciate landscapingas an art form.

"People need to think: 'How big are the flowers going to get? Whenare they going to bloom?'" he notes. "If you have perennials, they'regoing to bloom for a short period and you'll have some color in thespring, summer or fall. You have to know all of this and not over-crowd."

Although Thacker considers an individual customer's need whendeciding on a plan, he offers some general landscaping advice.

• Limit yourself on annuals. "You have to water them every day.It's a lot of work," Thacker says.

• Don't plant trees too close to the house or under power lines."Keep in mind that the root of a tree will grow as big as the top of thefoliage," he says. "The roots can get under the septic system and breakup the driveway."

• Don't mow the lawn too low. "If you mow too low, you'll brownyour grass out," he says. Instead, Thacker advises to keep your grassaround two inches high.

• Plant in good soil. "People overlook what they're planting in,"Thacker says. "You need a good mix of organic matter and top soil.Avoid planting in clay. It will dwarf your plants."

John Page, who has owned Sunshine Grow Shop since 1992, agreeson the importance of soil as well as water.

"The main thing is good drainage and that the water doesn't stand in

the soil," Page says. "If it stands, the plant dies."

Page sells a variety of ornamental trees and shrubs at Sunshine Growincluding Japanese maples, weeping cherries and magnolias. AlthoughFebruary usually represents a prime time for pruning, Page says, "It'sa good time to prune now. Now's a good time for people to trim rosebushes back, too."

He says March and April are good months to plant trees and adds,"Fall's a good time, too, but people don't take advantage of it. In thefall, they don't have to worry about watering or frost."

Page also cautions folks to pay attention to the hardiness label whenpurchasing plants.

"We're in zone six," he notes.

Of course, there's more to landscaping than flowers and plants, andThacker mentions water features as a popular trend.

"Water features are easier to do than most people think," he says."Most people think you have to do something large, but you can dosomething low cost."

According to Thacker, a landscaper must keep a customer's lifestyle inmind when designing a yard, but he says homeowners should alsoconsider this when sculpting their own lawns.

"You need to continue to maintain the design," Thacker says. "If youdon't, that's like buying a new car and never changing the oil."

Expert tips for creating abeautiful landscape


14 | Everything Home/Spring 2010 | 15

home maintenance

Too many homeowners believe spring maintenance is all about thecleaning. Sure, spring cleaning comprises a big chunk of any springhome maintenance schedule, but maintenance aimed at various struc-tures, appliances, and systems within the home is, arguably, just asimportant. Nearly all homeowners love to see spotless windows forthat first sunny, 70-degree day, but you can't forget your roof and thepossibility that ice dams formed over the winter. Indeed, just as muchas that first spring day should provide an excuse to go for a hike or apicnic, it should also provide a reminder that your outdoor springmaintenance is waiting. Follow this spring maintenance checklist toensure your home is in optimal condition for the rest of the year.

Spring Maintenance Checklist

3 Gutters and downspouts: Pull leaves and debris from gutters anddownspouts. Reattach gutters that have pulled away from the house.Run a hose on the roof and check for proper drainage. If leaks exist,dry the area and use caulking or epoxy to seal the leak.

3 Siding: Clean siding with a pressure washer to keep mold fromgrowing. Check all wood surfaces for weathering and paint failure. Ifwood is showing through, sand the immediate area and apply a primercoat before painting. If paint is peeling, scrape loose paint and sandsmooth before painting.

3 Exterior caulking: Inspect caulking and replace if deteriorating.Scrape out all of the eroding caulk and recaulk needed area.

3 Window sills, door sills, and thresholds: Fill cracks, caulkedges, repaint or replace if necessary.

3 Window and door screens: Clean screening and check for holes.If holes are bigger than a quarter, that is plenty of room for bugs toclimb in. Patch holes or replace the screen. Save bad screen to patchholes next year. Tighten or repair any loose or damaged frames andrepaint. Replace broken, worn, or missing hardware. Wind can ruinscreens and frames if they are allowed flap and move so make surethey are securely fastened. Tighten and lubricate door hinges andclosers.

3 Drain waste and vent system: Flush out system.

3 Hot water heater: Lubricate circulating pump and motor.

3 Evaporative air conditioner: Clean unit, check belt tension andadjust if needed. Replace cracked or worn belt.

3 Heat pump: Lubricate blower motor.

3 Foundation: Check foundation walls, floors, concrete, and

masonry for cracking, heaving, or deterioration. If a significant num-ber of bricks are losing their mortar, call a professional. If you canslide a nickle into a crack in your concrete floor, slab or foundationcall a professional immediately.

3 Roof: Inspect roof surface flashing, eaves, and soffits. Checkflashings around all surface projections and sidewalls.

3 Deck and porches: Check all decks, patios, porches, stairs, andrailings for loose members and deterioration. Open decks and woodfences need to be treated every 4-6 years, depending on how muchexposure they get to sun and rain. If the stain doesn't look like itshould or water has turned some of the wood a dark grey, hire a pro-fessional to treat your deck and fence.

3 Landscape: This is a natural for spring home maintenance. Cutback and trim all vegetation and overgrown bushes from structures.Limbs and leaves can cut into your home's paint and force you tohave that side of the house repainted. A little trimming can save a lotof money and time.

3 Sprinklers: Check lawn sprinkler system for leaky valves,exposed lines, and improperly working sprinkler heads. If there is an

Checklist: Spring Maintenance


There are few rites of spring more satisfying than the annual clean. For manypeople, however, the pleasure comes only after the work is finished. Your springcleaning may never become effortless, but you can make the project more man-ageable -- and even enjoyable.

All Around the House• Wipe walls and ceilings Use a vacuum to remove dust. Tackle stubborn sur-face grime, especially prevalent in kitchens, with a solvent-free degreaser (test itfirst in an inconspicuous area to ensure it won’t mar the surface). • Dust your home thoroughly This includes hard-to-reach places, such as thetops of ceiling fans and window casings. Always work from the top of a roomdown, vacuuming the dust that settles on the floor. Avoid using dusting sprays. • Vacuum and shampoo rugs Synthetic carpets and rugs with wa- terproof backings can be deep-cleaned with a rotary shampoo machine and a hot-water extraction machine. Rugs without backings, including Orientals, require professional cleaning. • Clean upholstered furnishings Take cushions outside and gently beat themby hand to remove dust. If there are stains, check the pieces for care labels. Usea vacuum’s upholstery and crevice tools to clean under seat cushions. • Polish metal door and window hardware Liquid polishes and polish-impreg-nated cloths work well for medium-tarnished surfaces; pastes and creams are forheavier work. If tarnish doesn’t come off, try a stronger product. • Reseal grout lines The cement-based material between wall, floor, and coun-tertop tiles is extremely porous and stains easily. Protect it with a penetratinggrout sealer; it’s best to apply it with a small foam brush. • Wax Wooden Furniture Wipe surfaces with a soft cloth dampened with waterand mild dishwashing liquid. Apply paste wax, such as Butch- er’s wax, a few feet at a time with a cotton rag folded into a square pad. Let wax dry; buff with a clean cloth. • Ensure fire safety Change batteries in smoke detectors (this should be donetwice a year), and make sure units are free of dust. Teach everyone in yourhousehold how to use a fire extinguisher, and review escape plans. • Clean window treatments Many draperies and curtains are machine wash-able; check labels. Dry-clean fabric shades. Wipe wooden blinds with a damp cloth; warm water mixed with a mild dishwashing liquid is safe for metal and vinyl blinds. • Wax nonwood floors Vinyl and linoleum floors that have lost their shineshould be waxed with a polish designed for these surfaces. Most stone and tilefloors can be treated with either a paste or a liquid wax designed for the material. • Wash window screens Using warm water and a mild dishwashing liquid,scrub each screen with a brush; rinse thoroughly.

Room By RoomKITCHEN • Dust refrigerator coils Turn off power at circuit breaker or fuse box. Coils areusually at the bottom of the refrigerator, under the grill. Clean coils with thecrevice attachment of a vacuum or a specialty refrigerator-coil brush, availableat hardware stores. • Defrost the freezer Turn off power at circuit breaker or fuse box. Emptyfreezer’s contents; wipe interior with a solution of 2 tablespoons baking sodaper 1 quart hot water.

LIVING ROOM• Swap heavy curtains, rugs, and throws For lightweight ones Clean itemsfirst. To store, roll material around an acid-free tube; wrap in a clean sheet ofcotton, muslin, or polyethylene; secure with twill tape, and label each bundle so you’ll knowwhich is which.

BEDROOMS • Rotate bed and change blankets Turn over your mattress to distribute thewear evenly. Replace cool-weather bedding with warm-weather bedding. • Clean Pillows Whether made of natural fibers (such as down) or synthetic(often polyester), most pillows can be machine-washed. This rids them of mold,bacteria, and odors.

BATHROOMS • Discard expired cosmetics and beauty products Secure these items in a plas-tic trash bag, and keep it out of reach of children and animals. • Update First-aid Kit In addition to bandages and ointments, the kit shouldinclude a list of emergency numbers, especially the one for your nearest poison-control center.

HOME OFFICE • Organize files Review insurance policies, contracts, and household inventories. • Clean Computers Scrub casings with a solution of 1 drop mild dishwashingliquid per 1 quart of water and a lint-free cloth; dust crevices in keyboards withcotton swabs; wipe screens with a soft cloth or a dry screen-cleaning sponge.

CLOSETS • Replace cool weather clothing with warm-weather clothing Wash or dry-clean garments before storing them in a zippered sweater or blanket bag. • Donate apparel you no longer use Many charities are happy to accept oldclothing and may send a truck to pick it up. They may also provide receipts fortax purpose.

UTILITY SPACES • Clean attic and basement, giving away or discarding unwanted itemsDivide whatever is left into two zones: one for things you’ll need to retrieve inthe next six months, such as clothes, and the other for objects that may be there for years, such as fur-niture. • Protect objects in basement use concrete blocks to keep storage boxes offthe ground. Place washer and dryer on elevated pedestals (made by the appliances’ manufac-turers) to prevent electrical shock during flooding.

OUTDOOR SPACES • Clean porch ceilings and walls Sweep up cobwebs and debris with a cornbroom, and wash walls with a solution of all-purpose cleaner and water using apolyester sponge. • Scrub decks, patios, driveways, and walkways Treat mildew spots with asolution of 1 part oxygen bleach to 3 parts water using a deck brush. • Wash outdoor Furniture Most materials, including aluminum, plastic, wood,and wicker, can handle a solution of mild dishwashing liquid and water and asoft-bristle brush. • Inspect light fixtures Wash covers, and check for damaged wires and connec-tions.

Eight Steps to Perfectly Clean Windows 1. Schedule the project Choose a time when the sun is not shining directly onwindows. Its hot rays can cause the cleaning solution to dry, which will result instreaks. 2. Clean the surface With a soft-bristle brush, dust away cobwebs and loose dirtfrom windows and frames. Don’t forget hinges, sills, and tracks. Wear rubbergloves to protect your hands, especially if the frames are old and splintery. 3. Make the cleaning solution Mix 1 part white vinegar and 1 part hot water. 4. Prevent a mess Before cleaning the inside of each window, place an absorbentterry-cloth towel along the windowsill to catch drips. 5. Wet the glass Using a sponge, wet (but don’t drench) the windowpane withthe vinegar-and-water solution, and rub away the dirt. As much as possible, keepthe solution from coming into contact with the window frames. 6. Prime a squeegee Wet the rubber blade; a dry one will skip. 7. Wipe the glass Starting at an upper corner of the pane, draw the squeegeedown in a straight, confident stroke. Wipe the rubber edge of the squeegee with asponge or a lint-free cloth. Return to the top and repeat, slightly overlapping thefirst stroke.Finish by pulling the squeegee across the bottom of the window. Drythe sill. 8. Clean the frames Wipe surfaces using a cloth dampened with a nonammoni-ated all-purpose cleaner and water. Rinse them thoroughly with a clean, dampcloth to remove cleaning solution, and dry immediately by wiping with a clean, dry cloth.


The tips below outline basic techniques that will help you clean almost every thing in any room.

Spring-Cleaning ChecklistHow Can I Fix MySplintering Deck?

Splintering decks are usuallythe result of one thing: home-owner neglect. Splinteringdecks don't happen unless along period of time has passedduring which the deck has notbeen treated with a water seal-er and stain. The lack of pro-tection allows water to soakinto the boards, eventuallycausing them to splinter andcrack. Fortunately, all is notlost. It might be hard to getthat brand new look backcompletely, but you can repairdecking that has been neglect-

ed by following a few simple steps.

Bleaching Splintering DecksYour first order of business is the easiest. Mix up a solution of halfbleach, half water, and spray down your entire decking. If you see areasof deck mold (not unlikely if it's been a while since your deck's beentreated), hit those especially hard and work at them with a scrub brushuntil the mold has been removed. Finally, wait for the deck to dry beforemoving on to the next step.

The bleach does two things: it kills deck mold and mildew, and itbleaches the wood to a uniform color, preparing it for taking the decktreatment. If you treat a deck that's at the point of splintering withoutapplying bleach, you'll end up with dark, unattractive decking, instead ofbringing out the natural wood look you're trying to recover.

Sand It DownOnce the bleach solution has dried off the deck (it's a good idea to give itabout 24 hours, just to be sure), you can move on to sanding. Sincesplintering decks mean lots of painful slivers for bare feet, it's importantthat you sand down your deck so that you're once again working with asmooth surface. Renting a large floor sander will certainly speed up thejob, though the railings, banisters, and steps will probably need to bedone with a hand sander or with sandpaper in hard to reach places.Finally, rent a power washer and clean off the deck. It's going to be cov-ered in a fine layer of dust from the sanding, and you'll need to get rid ofthat if you want your sealer to take properly.

Treat the DeckOnce the deck has dried out a second time, you're ready to treat the deck.Using a power sprayer drastically reduces the time it takes to treat adeck, though it can be done with paint rollers and brushes if you've gotthe patience. Just be sure to watch out for drips and runs, and to brushthem up quickly. Taking care of them immediately is pretty simple.Waiting until after the deck is dry to try to get rid of them is almostimpossible. Finally, remember to treat your deck on a regular basis (atleast every few years). It's the only sure-fire way to prevent problemslike splintering decks, cracking, rot, and deck mold.

Hiring Contractors to Fix Splintering DecksWhile it is possible to repair decking yourself, it's a time consuming andlaborious job, especially if you don't have the tools. A decking contractoris experienced enough to repair decking of all sorts, and has the suppliesand know how to get it done right in a fraction of the time. For manyhomeowners, hiring them is well worth the extra cost.



Small Bathroom DesignMake the most of that small bath with these stretching stragegies.

A small bathroom must contain all the elements ofa large bath in less space. That's why planning a new one or remodel-ing your existing one is so challenging. You have to think about func-tion, appearance, fixtures and storage, along with how much room youhave—and how much you can afford to spend on the project.

When every inch counts, you might want to consider getting profes-sional design help at a kitchen and bath dealer or from the design staffat a home center or plumbing distributor. Also contact the NationalKitchen & Bath Association for a copy of “41 Guidelines ofBathroom Planning.” Then check your plans against the guidelines tobe sure your bath looks and functions its best. We've distilled theNKBA guidelines to get you started.

Stretching StrategiesTo create a powder room, you'll need at least 16 sq. ft.; a full bathrequires a minimum of 36 to 40 sq. ft. The finished room must meas-ure at least 5 ft. in one direction to accommodate a tub. Buildingcodes typically require 32x32 in. (finished dimensions) for a shower;if you have the space, larger is better. Just make sure the shower is

large enough so you-and all your family members-can comfortablyraise your arms when washing hair or bend over to pick something up.

Once you've determined how much space you have, there are a wealthof ways to make it look bigger. For example, use a pocket, rather thana hinged, door. Choose as large a mirror as possible (use only one;more than one confuses the eye). And go with light-colored finishmaterials. Clear-glass shower doors stretch space visually, and youcan unify the bath by using one finish for all trim and hardware.

Storage space usually is at a premium in small baths, so considerrecessing an 8-in.-deep bath cabinet above the vanity. Install the vani-ty at a comfortable height—36 in. off the floor for most adults, 43 in.if you're taller than average. Select a vanity with drawers or bins, oradd organizers for toiletries and cleaning supplies to a unit that comesunequipped with these items.

Finally, avoid pedestal sinks in a small, full bath. They look great butare impractical because they don't provide storage. Save them forpowder rooms where storage isn't as crucial. If you must use apedestal sink, include open shelves or a tile-lined niche behind oradjacent to it. Or consider using cabinetry 16 or 18 in. deep instead ofthe usual 21 in. A small-scale pedestal lav, available from every majorplumbing manufacturer, is another viable option worth considering.

home improvement

A leaking roof is the most obvious sign that it's time to replace yourroof, but it's hardly the only one. Many of these signs will eventuallylead to a leaking roof, but identifying these problems early enoughcan prevent water damage and save you money for your roof replace-ment project. Sometimes this early intervention can also be the differ-ence between repairing your roof and replacing your roof. You shouldconsider part of this decision, however, the age of the roof, otherwiseyou may find roof repair a constant burden.

Signs of an Impending Leaking RoofMissing or torn shingles expose the roof to water damage and rot, andmake nearby shingles more susceptible to being blown away. Oldshingles will curl, split and lose their waterproofing effectiveness.These weakened shingles are more likely to be blown away by windgusts.

Rusted or missing flashing can result in a leaking roof. Flashing is themetal that surrounds chimneys, skylights and vent pipes and often isfound in the valleys where roof sections meet.Check gutters, downspouts and splash pans for evidence of decay ordamage. Broken pieces of paint and scraps of roofing may be visible.Indoors, look for discolored plasterboard or cracked paint and peelingwallpaper.

Replace a Roof without Removing the RoofYou have two main roof replacement options: You can either removethe old roof or put a new roof down on top of the old one. Putting a

new roof down on top of the old one is almost always cheaper butoften doesn't last as long—a typical situation where you get what youpay for. However, some considerations can make one choice betterthan the other. If you have more than two roofing layers already pres-ent, your roof can get heavy, cumbersome, and the sub-layers may endup rotting through to the point where your new roof is no longer sta-ble.

This is one of the reasons why repairing and replacing roofs are a fre-quent source of home improvement failure. You need to find a qualityroofing contractor—this is a difficult enough task on its own—butyou should also ask to see your roofing layers before you make adecision.

Removing and Replacing the RoofIf you need to remove and replace your roof, make sure to do it right.If you don't have the budget to do it on your own, consider financingthe project through home equity. Some homeowners even decide tocheaply repair a roof with the knowledge the repair won't last morethan 10 years. By that time, their house has appreciated enough to beable to finance the project. Once the old roof has been removed,there's a good chance the roof deck will need to be repaired if it hassettled or shows sign of rot. You'll also want to review the slope ofyour roof to ensure you're receiving optimal drainage. All of theseconsiderations are paramount to getting the most out of your newroof. A high quality roofing material and proper installation shouldgive you a new roof that will last half a century.

If It's Not Leaking, Why Does My RoofNeed to Be Replaced?


Keeping it AffordableHow much will a small-bath remodel cost?That depends on structural changes and theprice of the components. The NKBA's annual“Trends Survey” of certified kitchen and bathdesigners puts the cost of the average bath-room re-model done by its members at about$9,000. You can cut that figure by more thanhalf by shopping at a home center and doingthe work yourself. On the other hand, it's easyto exceed that amount by picking high-endcomponents.

Another important factor in the final tally isthe cost of labor. Because all the major build-ing trades are involved in a bathroom remod-el, sprucing up even a small bath tends to beexpensive if you hire out all the work.


Classic FixturesWhen selecting fixtures for your bathroom,keep in mind they are going into a smallspace. Choose simple designs made fromsmooth surfaces, such as ceramic and mar-ble, and opt for light, neutral tones.

Additional Lighting FixturesConsider adding additional light fixtures orusing higher wattage bulbs, as appropriate.By making the bathroom brighter and moreinviting, it seems that the space has openedup and the walls are farther apart.

Limit Items in BathroomItems such as storage shelves, hampers, anddecorative items all take up valuable spacein a small bathroom and the bathroom willappear much larger if these items are

removed and the things that they hold arestored somewhere else.

Adding MirrorsPlacing additional mirrors in the bathroomwill help to capture all of the available lightand reflect it back into the room to make itbrighter. Adding extra mirrors to the roomwill also add depth to the room, as the mir-rors reflect each other and make the wallsappear farther away.

De-ClutterInstead of storing all of your beauty itemson the counter, place them in a cabinet or inthe medicine chest when not in use. Themore items are visible in a small bathroom,the more cramped the space will look andfeel.

Small Bathroom Tips

Kraus Clear Glass Vessel Sink and WaterfallFaucet Chrome Combo $219.95 atOverstock.com

ALBION DOUBLE SCONCE$59.99 www.restorationhardware.com

Canopy Curved Hotel Shower Rod,Chrome. $36.96 walmart.com

product ideas


exterior maintenance

(ARA) - Some things get better with age - wine,cheese, cars. Building supplies don't usually fallinto that category. So, if your house is looking a lit-tle shabby, try giving it a facelift by updating oneof the largest exterior surfaces - your roof.

Just like faces, roofs can look worse for wear afteryears of exposure to the elements, so give it amakeover by focusing on one or all of the follow-ing - texture, shape and color.

"This isn't your grandmother's roofing anymore,"says Stephen McNally, vice president of sales andmarketing at TAMKO Building Products, Inc., oneof the largest shingle manufacturers in the UnitedStates "People are getting creative with their roof-ing. It's not just utilitarian anymore. People are see-ing it as a palette - one of the first things visitorsnotice about the house."

TextureOne of the biggest ways to change the texture ofyour roof is by using an alternative shingle materi-al. Asphalt shingles are still the most popular roofing material in theU.S., but laminate, composite and metal shingles enjoy a growing fol-lowing as the alternative materials can dramatically change theappearance of a house.

A growing trend in roofing currently is the proliferation of metal shin-gles. The shingles are known for their appearance, durability and abil-ity to reduce energy consumption by reflecting the sun's rays ratherthan absorbing them. These shingles come in a variety of styles tolook like wood shakes, stone slate or clay tile.

Depending on the style, a new metal roof can make a house look tra-ditional or contemporary with a distinctive finish.

Slate stone and real wood offer an organic quality to a roof that home-owners have been shelling out big bucks for. But now, that look isavailable to the general public at a fraction of the cost through com-posite shingles.

Call it a discounted facelift. For example, TAMKO's Lamarite brandcomposite shingles cost about one-third what slate tiles do. The com-posite shingles are made from colorized mineral filled polymer andare molded to mimic the texture of stone slate tiles. They are alsodesigned with markings to allow different exposures which result inan attractively random, staggered pattern on the roof.

Even asphalt shingles have come a long way from your grandmother'sroof. New laminated asphalt shingles come in a variety of shapes andcolors, many simulating a wooden shake look. The shape of a sheet ofshingles can mean the difference between graceful shadow lines onyour home or an unsightly zipper pattern common with some styles of

roofing.

Some laminated asphalt shingle styles create a vintage look throughrandomly cut patterns on each sheet or an extended length sheet andwider cut tab like TAMKO's Heritage Vintage and Heritage XL lami-nated shingles. The result is a sleek look that still feels cozy andwarm.

ColorWhile black is the traditional color of asphalt shingles, roofing hasbranched out and is a lot more colorful these days. TAMKO offersdozens of different colors in several shingle varieties, includingHarvest Gold, Forest Green and Olde English Pewter.

Metal roof colors tend to be more dramatic than asphalt shingles withsuch shades as sequoia red and Vermont blue. Not only are many ofthese metal roofs made in "cool" colors to reduce energy use, but theMetalWorks line of shingles is made from 50 percent recycled steeland are 100 percent recyclable.

Some homeowners pair a new roof color with siding or shutters tocreate a continuous color pallette. Others choose to go in a differentdirection and pick a contrasting color to set the roof apart.

Into muted colors? Just as a light beige paint can add warmth to aonce-all-white room, changing your roof from the traditional black toanother neutral, such as a series of brown or gray shades can addcharacter to one of the largest surfaces of your home.


Roofs now can take on an artistic look


Did you know when you go to sell your home, you may be able to recoup upwardsof 80 percent of the cost of a major kitchen remodel? That's not to mention the factthat well-done improvements increases your home's curb appeal, making it morelikely to sell -- and sell quickly. But, best of all, gorgeous kitchen countertops cantransform the room from "just a place to cook" into a wonderful place to live.Whenchoosing what countertops to put on top of your kitchen cabinetry, there are manythings to consider. Here's where you can begin:

Counter Intelligence

home improvement


COOKING:In order to get the most out of the countertops that you select, consid-er the following questions first. Doyou cook every day? Do you cookonce in a while when you cannotavoid it? Are you the type of chefwho likes to place hot pots on thecountertop without the benefit ofa hot plate or thermal barrier?Do you use a lot of heavy dutycookware that may scratchunprotected surfaces?

You will need to take all ofthese things into account whenselecting the type of counter-top that you want for yourkitchen. For example, engi-neered stone and granite provide excellentscratch-and heat-resistant surfaces.

BAKING:If you are a baker, then you may want to con-sider some of the above considerations as well.Do you need a surface that can resist the heat oftray after tray of deliciously warm cookies?Perhaps you will also need a stain-resistantcountertop for all of the food colorings that youmight be using in your food decorating endeav-ors. Consider manufactured stone or stainlesssteel surfaces, both of which provide excellentheat and stain resistance.

Marble is a favorite surface for rolling dough, butis prone to staining, cracking and chipping. If thisis something you'd really like in your kitchen, per-haps you could have a special section of that kindof countertop embedded in another material.

ENTERTAINING:If you entertain a lot, then youshould consider durabilityalong with visual and aestheticappeal. Entertaining yourguests necessitates a lot ofwear and tear on the kitchencountertops in most cases --in fact, not everyone will beas careful of your counter-tops as you will be. Here area few things to consider:

DECORATIVEPURPOSES:If your kitchen is more of a gathering place and lessof a central cooking or baking station, then you may place moreemphasis on the decorative aspect of your countertops. You may bemore concerned with issues seam visibility more than those of, say,heat resistance. If that is the case, then you may want to consider anyof the following all of which provide excellent lack of seam visibility:engineered stone, stainless steel, butcher block or laminated surfaces.

COUNTERTOP OPTIONS AND AFFORDABILITYEven if you have a limited budget, you can still have attractivekitchen countertops. Modern technology has advanced to such adegree that there are a wealth of affordable options. However, for the

least expensive selections, you may want to considerbutcher block, tile or laminated surfaces.Laminate you say? Really -- today's Formicais more durable than that material of yester-year, and is available in a wide range of colors,patterns and finishes. You might be surprised!

One of the newest countertop materials out thereis made out of paper (combined with resin andthen baked). Richlite is a solid surface (the samematerial runs all the way through) and is heatresistant up to 350 degrees F. It's also consideredenvironmentally-friendly, as the raw material usedin its manufacture is derived from renewable orrecycled resources. The end result is a tough sur-

face that isn't cold like stone orother solid-surface materials.

So with everything from natu-ral products (limestone, gran-ite, marble) to those that havebeen manufactured (concrete,stainless steel, engineeredstone), your options are plen-tiful. Or mix and match! Youcan even hire a professionalcontractor for a special cus-tom design for the counter-tops themselves or a back-splash behind the stove.

MAINTENANCE ISSUESEngineered stone, stainless steel and granite are probably the easiestsurfaces in terms of upkeep. They are extremely durable, provide bothheat and scratch resistance, and are relatively stain-resistant.

Marble, however, is more porous than granite and, as such, is pret-ty high-maintenance. Even when sealed, it iseasily stained by tomato sauce, coffee and wine,is prone to scratching, while hot pans may causescorch marks. With regular use, it is also suscep-tible to cracks and chips.

INSTALLATION CONSIDERA-TIONSIf you are concerned with the amount of timeneeded to complete the job, laminate, engineeredstone for resurfacing, butcher block, and tile offerthe shortest installation times in most situations.Other variables may come into play such as avail-ability of materials and unforeseen complications.

Countertops are a major purchase for any home, andmake a difference to both your enjoyment of the kitchen and yourhome's resale value. Be sure to remember that when it comes to homeimprovement (among many other things in life), there is no one sizefits all. Take the time to find the perfect combination of decorativeand functional.

Manufactured Stone

Richlite©

Stainless


Did you know when you go to sell your home, you may be able to recoup upwardsof 80 percent of the cost of a major kitchen remodel? That's not to mention the factthat well-done improvements increases your home's curb appeal, making it morelikely to sell -- and sell quickly. But, best of all, gorgeous kitchen countertops cantransform the room from "just a place to cook" into a wonderful place to live.Whenchoosing what countertops to put on top of your kitchen cabinetry, there are manythings to consider. Here's where you can begin:

Counter Intelligence

home improvement


COOKING:In order to get the most out of the countertops that you select, consid-er the following questions first. Doyou cook every day? Do you cookonce in a while when you cannotavoid it? Are you the type of chefwho likes to place hot pots on thecountertop without the benefit ofa hot plate or thermal barrier?Do you use a lot of heavy dutycookware that may scratchunprotected surfaces?

You will need to take all ofthese things into account whenselecting the type of counter-top that you want for yourkitchen. For example, engi-neered stone and granite provide excellentscratch-and heat-resistant surfaces.

BAKING:If you are a baker, then you may want to con-sider some of the above considerations as well.Do you need a surface that can resist the heat oftray after tray of deliciously warm cookies?Perhaps you will also need a stain-resistantcountertop for all of the food colorings that youmight be using in your food decorating endeav-ors. Consider manufactured stone or stainlesssteel surfaces, both of which provide excellentheat and stain resistance.

Marble is a favorite surface for rolling dough, butis prone to staining, cracking and chipping. If thisis something you'd really like in your kitchen, per-haps you could have a special section of that kindof countertop embedded in another material.

ENTERTAINING:If you entertain a lot, then youshould consider durabilityalong with visual and aestheticappeal. Entertaining yourguests necessitates a lot ofwear and tear on the kitchencountertops in most cases --in fact, not everyone will beas careful of your counter-tops as you will be. Here area few things to consider:

DECORATIVEPURPOSES:If your kitchen is more of a gathering place and lessof a central cooking or baking station, then you may place moreemphasis on the decorative aspect of your countertops. You may bemore concerned with issues seam visibility more than those of, say,heat resistance. If that is the case, then you may want to consider anyof the following all of which provide excellent lack of seam visibility:engineered stone, stainless steel, butcher block or laminated surfaces.

COUNTERTOP OPTIONS AND AFFORDABILITYEven if you have a limited budget, you can still have attractivekitchen countertops. Modern technology has advanced to such adegree that there are a wealth of affordable options. However, for the

least expensive selections, you may want to considerbutcher block, tile or laminated surfaces.Laminate you say? Really -- today's Formicais more durable than that material of yester-year, and is available in a wide range of colors,patterns and finishes. You might be surprised!

One of the newest countertop materials out thereis made out of paper (combined with resin andthen baked). Richlite is a solid surface (the samematerial runs all the way through) and is heatresistant up to 350 degrees F. It's also consideredenvironmentally-friendly, as the raw material usedin its manufacture is derived from renewable orrecycled resources. The end result is a tough sur-

face that isn't cold like stone orother solid-surface materials.

So with everything from natu-ral products (limestone, gran-ite, marble) to those that havebeen manufactured (concrete,stainless steel, engineeredstone), your options are plen-tiful. Or mix and match! Youcan even hire a professionalcontractor for a special cus-tom design for the counter-tops themselves or a back-splash behind the stove.

MAINTENANCE ISSUESEngineered stone, stainless steel and granite are probably the easiestsurfaces in terms of upkeep. They are extremely durable, provide bothheat and scratch resistance, and are relatively stain-resistant.

Marble, however, is more porous than granite and, as such, is pret-ty high-maintenance. Even when sealed, it iseasily stained by tomato sauce, coffee and wine,is prone to scratching, while hot pans may causescorch marks. With regular use, it is also suscep-tible to cracks and chips.

INSTALLATION CONSIDERA-TIONSIf you are concerned with the amount of timeneeded to complete the job, laminate, engineeredstone for resurfacing, butcher block, and tile offerthe shortest installation times in most situations.Other variables may come into play such as avail-ability of materials and unforeseen complications.

Countertops are a major purchase for any home, andmake a difference to both your enjoyment of the kitchen and yourhome's resale value. Be sure to remember that when it comes to homeimprovement (among many other things in life), there is no one sizefits all. Take the time to find the perfect combination of decorativeand functional.

Manufactured Stone

Richlite©

Stainless

Keeping it AffordableHow much will a small-bath remodel cost?That depends on structural changes and theprice of the components. The NKBA's annual“Trends Survey” of certified kitchen and bathdesigners puts the cost of the average bath-room re-model done by its members at about$9,000. You can cut that figure by more thanhalf by shopping at a home center and doingthe work yourself. On the other hand, it's easyto exceed that amount by picking high-endcomponents.

Another important factor in the final tally isthe cost of labor. Because all the major build-ing trades are involved in a bathroom remod-el, sprucing up even a small bath tends to beexpensive if you hire out all the work.


Classic FixturesWhen selecting fixtures for your bathroom,keep in mind they are going into a smallspace. Choose simple designs made fromsmooth surfaces, such as ceramic and mar-ble, and opt for light, neutral tones.

Additional Lighting FixturesConsider adding additional light fixtures orusing higher wattage bulbs, as appropriate.By making the bathroom brighter and moreinviting, it seems that the space has openedup and the walls are farther apart.

Limit Items in BathroomItems such as storage shelves, hampers, anddecorative items all take up valuable spacein a small bathroom and the bathroom willappear much larger if these items are

removed and the things that they hold arestored somewhere else.

Adding MirrorsPlacing additional mirrors in the bathroomwill help to capture all of the available lightand reflect it back into the room to make itbrighter. Adding extra mirrors to the roomwill also add depth to the room, as the mir-rors reflect each other and make the wallsappear farther away.

De-ClutterInstead of storing all of your beauty itemson the counter, place them in a cabinet or inthe medicine chest when not in use. Themore items are visible in a small bathroom,the more cramped the space will look andfeel.

Small Bathroom Tips

Kraus Clear Glass Vessel Sink and WaterfallFaucet Chrome Combo $219.95 atOverstock.com

ALBION DOUBLE SCONCE$59.99 www.restorationhardware.com

Canopy Curved Hotel Shower Rod,Chrome. $36.96 walmart.com

product ideas


exterior maintenance

(ARA) - Some things get better with age - wine,cheese, cars. Building supplies don't usually fallinto that category. So, if your house is looking a lit-tle shabby, try giving it a facelift by updating oneof the largest exterior surfaces - your roof.

Just like faces, roofs can look worse for wear afteryears of exposure to the elements, so give it amakeover by focusing on one or all of the follow-ing - texture, shape and color.

"This isn't your grandmother's roofing anymore,"says Stephen McNally, vice president of sales andmarketing at TAMKO Building Products, Inc., oneof the largest shingle manufacturers in the UnitedStates "People are getting creative with their roof-ing. It's not just utilitarian anymore. People are see-ing it as a palette - one of the first things visitorsnotice about the house."

TextureOne of the biggest ways to change the texture ofyour roof is by using an alternative shingle materi-al. Asphalt shingles are still the most popular roofing material in theU.S., but laminate, composite and metal shingles enjoy a growing fol-lowing as the alternative materials can dramatically change theappearance of a house.

A growing trend in roofing currently is the proliferation of metal shin-gles. The shingles are known for their appearance, durability and abil-ity to reduce energy consumption by reflecting the sun's rays ratherthan absorbing them. These shingles come in a variety of styles tolook like wood shakes, stone slate or clay tile.

Depending on the style, a new metal roof can make a house look tra-ditional or contemporary with a distinctive finish.

Slate stone and real wood offer an organic quality to a roof that home-owners have been shelling out big bucks for. But now, that look isavailable to the general public at a fraction of the cost through com-posite shingles.

Call it a discounted facelift. For example, TAMKO's Lamarite brandcomposite shingles cost about one-third what slate tiles do. The com-posite shingles are made from colorized mineral filled polymer andare molded to mimic the texture of stone slate tiles. They are alsodesigned with markings to allow different exposures which result inan attractively random, staggered pattern on the roof.

Even asphalt shingles have come a long way from your grandmother'sroof. New laminated asphalt shingles come in a variety of shapes andcolors, many simulating a wooden shake look. The shape of a sheet ofshingles can mean the difference between graceful shadow lines onyour home or an unsightly zipper pattern common with some styles of

roofing.

Some laminated asphalt shingle styles create a vintage look throughrandomly cut patterns on each sheet or an extended length sheet andwider cut tab like TAMKO's Heritage Vintage and Heritage XL lami-nated shingles. The result is a sleek look that still feels cozy andwarm.

ColorWhile black is the traditional color of asphalt shingles, roofing hasbranched out and is a lot more colorful these days. TAMKO offersdozens of different colors in several shingle varieties, includingHarvest Gold, Forest Green and Olde English Pewter.

Metal roof colors tend to be more dramatic than asphalt shingles withsuch shades as sequoia red and Vermont blue. Not only are many ofthese metal roofs made in "cool" colors to reduce energy use, but theMetalWorks line of shingles is made from 50 percent recycled steeland are 100 percent recyclable.

Some homeowners pair a new roof color with siding or shutters tocreate a continuous color pallette. Others choose to go in a differentdirection and pick a contrasting color to set the roof apart.

Into muted colors? Just as a light beige paint can add warmth to aonce-all-white room, changing your roof from the traditional black toanother neutral, such as a series of brown or gray shades can addcharacter to one of the largest surfaces of your home.


Roofs now can take on an artistic look


Small Bathroom DesignMake the most of that small bath with these stretching stragegies.

A small bathroom must contain all the elements ofa large bath in less space. That's why planning a new one or remodel-ing your existing one is so challenging. You have to think about func-tion, appearance, fixtures and storage, along with how much room youhave—and how much you can afford to spend on the project.

When every inch counts, you might want to consider getting profes-sional design help at a kitchen and bath dealer or from the design staffat a home center or plumbing distributor. Also contact the NationalKitchen & Bath Association for a copy of “41 Guidelines ofBathroom Planning.” Then check your plans against the guidelines tobe sure your bath looks and functions its best. We've distilled theNKBA guidelines to get you started.

Stretching StrategiesTo create a powder room, you'll need at least 16 sq. ft.; a full bathrequires a minimum of 36 to 40 sq. ft. The finished room must meas-ure at least 5 ft. in one direction to accommodate a tub. Buildingcodes typically require 32x32 in. (finished dimensions) for a shower;if you have the space, larger is better. Just make sure the shower is

large enough so you-and all your family members-can comfortablyraise your arms when washing hair or bend over to pick something up.

Once you've determined how much space you have, there are a wealthof ways to make it look bigger. For example, use a pocket, rather thana hinged, door. Choose as large a mirror as possible (use only one;more than one confuses the eye). And go with light-colored finishmaterials. Clear-glass shower doors stretch space visually, and youcan unify the bath by using one finish for all trim and hardware.

Storage space usually is at a premium in small baths, so considerrecessing an 8-in.-deep bath cabinet above the vanity. Install the vani-ty at a comfortable height—36 in. off the floor for most adults, 43 in.if you're taller than average. Select a vanity with drawers or bins, oradd organizers for toiletries and cleaning supplies to a unit that comesunequipped with these items.

Finally, avoid pedestal sinks in a small, full bath. They look great butare impractical because they don't provide storage. Save them forpowder rooms where storage isn't as crucial. If you must use apedestal sink, include open shelves or a tile-lined niche behind oradjacent to it. Or consider using cabinetry 16 or 18 in. deep instead ofthe usual 21 in. A small-scale pedestal lav, available from every majorplumbing manufacturer, is another viable option worth considering.

home improvement

A leaking roof is the most obvious sign that it's time to replace yourroof, but it's hardly the only one. Many of these signs will eventuallylead to a leaking roof, but identifying these problems early enoughcan prevent water damage and save you money for your roof replace-ment project. Sometimes this early intervention can also be the differ-ence between repairing your roof and replacing your roof. You shouldconsider part of this decision, however, the age of the roof, otherwiseyou may find roof repair a constant burden.

Signs of an Impending Leaking RoofMissing or torn shingles expose the roof to water damage and rot, andmake nearby shingles more susceptible to being blown away. Oldshingles will curl, split and lose their waterproofing effectiveness.These weakened shingles are more likely to be blown away by windgusts.

Rusted or missing flashing can result in a leaking roof. Flashing is themetal that surrounds chimneys, skylights and vent pipes and often isfound in the valleys where roof sections meet.Check gutters, downspouts and splash pans for evidence of decay ordamage. Broken pieces of paint and scraps of roofing may be visible.Indoors, look for discolored plasterboard or cracked paint and peelingwallpaper.

Replace a Roof without Removing the RoofYou have two main roof replacement options: You can either removethe old roof or put a new roof down on top of the old one. Putting a

new roof down on top of the old one is almost always cheaper butoften doesn't last as long—a typical situation where you get what youpay for. However, some considerations can make one choice betterthan the other. If you have more than two roofing layers already pres-ent, your roof can get heavy, cumbersome, and the sub-layers may endup rotting through to the point where your new roof is no longer sta-ble.

This is one of the reasons why repairing and replacing roofs are a fre-quent source of home improvement failure. You need to find a qualityroofing contractor—this is a difficult enough task on its own—butyou should also ask to see your roofing layers before you make adecision.

Removing and Replacing the RoofIf you need to remove and replace your roof, make sure to do it right.If you don't have the budget to do it on your own, consider financingthe project through home equity. Some homeowners even decide tocheaply repair a roof with the knowledge the repair won't last morethan 10 years. By that time, their house has appreciated enough to beable to finance the project. Once the old roof has been removed,there's a good chance the roof deck will need to be repaired if it hassettled or shows sign of rot. You'll also want to review the slope ofyour roof to ensure you're receiving optimal drainage. All of theseconsiderations are paramount to getting the most out of your newroof. A high quality roofing material and proper installation shouldgive you a new roof that will last half a century.

If It's Not Leaking, Why Does My RoofNeed to Be Replaced?


There are few rites of spring more satisfying than the annual clean. For manypeople, however, the pleasure comes only after the work is finished. Your springcleaning may never become effortless, but you can make the project more man-ageable -- and even enjoyable.

All Around the House• Wipe walls and ceilings Use a vacuum to remove dust. Tackle stubborn sur-face grime, especially prevalent in kitchens, with a solvent-free degreaser (test itfirst in an inconspicuous area to ensure it won’t mar the surface). • Dust your home thoroughly This includes hard-to-reach places, such as thetops of ceiling fans and window casings. Always work from the top of a roomdown, vacuuming the dust that settles on the floor. Avoid using dusting sprays. • Vacuum and shampoo rugs Synthetic carpets and rugs with wa- terproof backings can be deep-cleaned with a rotary shampoo machine and a hot-water extraction machine. Rugs without backings, including Orientals, require professional cleaning. • Clean upholstered furnishings Take cushions outside and gently beat themby hand to remove dust. If there are stains, check the pieces for care labels. Usea vacuum’s upholstery and crevice tools to clean under seat cushions. • Polish metal door and window hardware Liquid polishes and polish-impreg-nated cloths work well for medium-tarnished surfaces; pastes and creams are forheavier work. If tarnish doesn’t come off, try a stronger product. • Reseal grout lines The cement-based material between wall, floor, and coun-tertop tiles is extremely porous and stains easily. Protect it with a penetratinggrout sealer; it’s best to apply it with a small foam brush. • Wax Wooden Furniture Wipe surfaces with a soft cloth dampened with waterand mild dishwashing liquid. Apply paste wax, such as Butch- er’s wax, a few feet at a time with a cotton rag folded into a square pad. Let wax dry; buff with a clean cloth. • Ensure fire safety Change batteries in smoke detectors (this should be donetwice a year), and make sure units are free of dust. Teach everyone in yourhousehold how to use a fire extinguisher, and review escape plans. • Clean window treatments Many draperies and curtains are machine wash-able; check labels. Dry-clean fabric shades. Wipe wooden blinds with a damp cloth; warm water mixed with a mild dishwashing liquid is safe for metal and vinyl blinds. • Wax nonwood floors Vinyl and linoleum floors that have lost their shineshould be waxed with a polish designed for these surfaces. Most stone and tilefloors can be treated with either a paste or a liquid wax designed for the material. • Wash window screens Using warm water and a mild dishwashing liquid,scrub each screen with a brush; rinse thoroughly.

Room By RoomKITCHEN • Dust refrigerator coils Turn off power at circuit breaker or fuse box. Coils areusually at the bottom of the refrigerator, under the grill. Clean coils with thecrevice attachment of a vacuum or a specialty refrigerator-coil brush, availableat hardware stores. • Defrost the freezer Turn off power at circuit breaker or fuse box. Emptyfreezer’s contents; wipe interior with a solution of 2 tablespoons baking sodaper 1 quart hot water.

LIVING ROOM• Swap heavy curtains, rugs, and throws For lightweight ones Clean itemsfirst. To store, roll material around an acid-free tube; wrap in a clean sheet ofcotton, muslin, or polyethylene; secure with twill tape, and label each bundle so you’ll knowwhich is which.

BEDROOMS • Rotate bed and change blankets Turn over your mattress to distribute thewear evenly. Replace cool-weather bedding with warm-weather bedding. • Clean Pillows Whether made of natural fibers (such as down) or synthetic(often polyester), most pillows can be machine-washed. This rids them of mold,bacteria, and odors.

BATHROOMS • Discard expired cosmetics and beauty products Secure these items in a plas-tic trash bag, and keep it out of reach of children and animals. • Update First-aid Kit In addition to bandages and ointments, the kit shouldinclude a list of emergency numbers, especially the one for your nearest poison-control center.

HOME OFFICE • Organize files Review insurance policies, contracts, and household inventories. • Clean Computers Scrub casings with a solution of 1 drop mild dishwashingliquid per 1 quart of water and a lint-free cloth; dust crevices in keyboards withcotton swabs; wipe screens with a soft cloth or a dry screen-cleaning sponge.

CLOSETS • Replace cool weather clothing with warm-weather clothing Wash or dry-clean garments before storing them in a zippered sweater or blanket bag. • Donate apparel you no longer use Many charities are happy to accept oldclothing and may send a truck to pick it up. They may also provide receipts fortax purpose.

UTILITY SPACES • Clean attic and basement, giving away or discarding unwanted itemsDivide whatever is left into two zones: one for things you’ll need to retrieve inthe next six months, such as clothes, and the other for objects that may be there for years, such as fur-niture. • Protect objects in basement use concrete blocks to keep storage boxes offthe ground. Place washer and dryer on elevated pedestals (made by the appliances’ manufac-turers) to prevent electrical shock during flooding.

OUTDOOR SPACES • Clean porch ceilings and walls Sweep up cobwebs and debris with a cornbroom, and wash walls with a solution of all-purpose cleaner and water using apolyester sponge. • Scrub decks, patios, driveways, and walkways Treat mildew spots with asolution of 1 part oxygen bleach to 3 parts water using a deck brush. • Wash outdoor Furniture Most materials, including aluminum, plastic, wood,and wicker, can handle a solution of mild dishwashing liquid and water and asoft-bristle brush. • Inspect light fixtures Wash covers, and check for damaged wires and connec-tions.

Eight Steps to Perfectly Clean Windows 1. Schedule the project Choose a time when the sun is not shining directly onwindows. Its hot rays can cause the cleaning solution to dry, which will result instreaks. 2. Clean the surface With a soft-bristle brush, dust away cobwebs and loose dirtfrom windows and frames. Don’t forget hinges, sills, and tracks. Wear rubbergloves to protect your hands, especially if the frames are old and splintery. 3. Make the cleaning solution Mix 1 part white vinegar and 1 part hot water. 4. Prevent a mess Before cleaning the inside of each window, place an absorbentterry-cloth towel along the windowsill to catch drips. 5. Wet the glass Using a sponge, wet (but don’t drench) the windowpane withthe vinegar-and-water solution, and rub away the dirt. As much as possible, keepthe solution from coming into contact with the window frames. 6. Prime a squeegee Wet the rubber blade; a dry one will skip. 7. Wipe the glass Starting at an upper corner of the pane, draw the squeegeedown in a straight, confident stroke. Wipe the rubber edge of the squeegee with asponge or a lint-free cloth. Return to the top and repeat, slightly overlapping thefirst stroke.Finish by pulling the squeegee across the bottom of the window. Drythe sill. 8. Clean the frames Wipe surfaces using a cloth dampened with a nonammoni-ated all-purpose cleaner and water. Rinse them thoroughly with a clean, dampcloth to remove cleaning solution, and dry immediately by wiping with a clean, dry cloth.


The tips below outline basic techniques that will help you clean almost every thing in any room.

Spring-Cleaning ChecklistHow Can I Fix MySplintering Deck?

Splintering decks are usuallythe result of one thing: home-owner neglect. Splinteringdecks don't happen unless along period of time has passedduring which the deck has notbeen treated with a water seal-er and stain. The lack of pro-tection allows water to soakinto the boards, eventuallycausing them to splinter andcrack. Fortunately, all is notlost. It might be hard to getthat brand new look backcompletely, but you can repairdecking that has been neglect-

ed by following a few simple steps.

Bleaching Splintering DecksYour first order of business is the easiest. Mix up a solution of halfbleach, half water, and spray down your entire decking. If you see areasof deck mold (not unlikely if it's been a while since your deck's beentreated), hit those especially hard and work at them with a scrub brushuntil the mold has been removed. Finally, wait for the deck to dry beforemoving on to the next step.

The bleach does two things: it kills deck mold and mildew, and itbleaches the wood to a uniform color, preparing it for taking the decktreatment. If you treat a deck that's at the point of splintering withoutapplying bleach, you'll end up with dark, unattractive decking, instead ofbringing out the natural wood look you're trying to recover.

Sand It DownOnce the bleach solution has dried off the deck (it's a good idea to give itabout 24 hours, just to be sure), you can move on to sanding. Sincesplintering decks mean lots of painful slivers for bare feet, it's importantthat you sand down your deck so that you're once again working with asmooth surface. Renting a large floor sander will certainly speed up thejob, though the railings, banisters, and steps will probably need to bedone with a hand sander or with sandpaper in hard to reach places.Finally, rent a power washer and clean off the deck. It's going to be cov-ered in a fine layer of dust from the sanding, and you'll need to get rid ofthat if you want your sealer to take properly.

Treat the DeckOnce the deck has dried out a second time, you're ready to treat the deck.Using a power sprayer drastically reduces the time it takes to treat adeck, though it can be done with paint rollers and brushes if you've gotthe patience. Just be sure to watch out for drips and runs, and to brushthem up quickly. Taking care of them immediately is pretty simple.Waiting until after the deck is dry to try to get rid of them is almostimpossible. Finally, remember to treat your deck on a regular basis (atleast every few years). It's the only sure-fire way to prevent problemslike splintering decks, cracking, rot, and deck mold.

Hiring Contractors to Fix Splintering DecksWhile it is possible to repair decking yourself, it's a time consuming andlaborious job, especially if you don't have the tools. A decking contractoris experienced enough to repair decking of all sorts, and has the suppliesand know how to get it done right in a fraction of the time. For manyhomeowners, hiring them is well worth the extra cost.


14 | Everything Home/Spring 2010 | 15

home maintenance

Too many homeowners believe spring maintenance is all about thecleaning. Sure, spring cleaning comprises a big chunk of any springhome maintenance schedule, but maintenance aimed at various struc-tures, appliances, and systems within the home is, arguably, just asimportant. Nearly all homeowners love to see spotless windows forthat first sunny, 70-degree day, but you can't forget your roof and thepossibility that ice dams formed over the winter. Indeed, just as muchas that first spring day should provide an excuse to go for a hike or apicnic, it should also provide a reminder that your outdoor springmaintenance is waiting. Follow this spring maintenance checklist toensure your home is in optimal condition for the rest of the year.

Spring Maintenance Checklist

3 Gutters and downspouts: Pull leaves and debris from gutters anddownspouts. Reattach gutters that have pulled away from the house.Run a hose on the roof and check for proper drainage. If leaks exist,dry the area and use caulking or epoxy to seal the leak.

3 Siding: Clean siding with a pressure washer to keep mold fromgrowing. Check all wood surfaces for weathering and paint failure. Ifwood is showing through, sand the immediate area and apply a primercoat before painting. If paint is peeling, scrape loose paint and sandsmooth before painting.

3 Exterior caulking: Inspect caulking and replace if deteriorating.Scrape out all of the eroding caulk and recaulk needed area.

3 Window sills, door sills, and thresholds: Fill cracks, caulkedges, repaint or replace if necessary.

3 Window and door screens: Clean screening and check for holes.If holes are bigger than a quarter, that is plenty of room for bugs toclimb in. Patch holes or replace the screen. Save bad screen to patchholes next year. Tighten or repair any loose or damaged frames andrepaint. Replace broken, worn, or missing hardware. Wind can ruinscreens and frames if they are allowed flap and move so make surethey are securely fastened. Tighten and lubricate door hinges andclosers.

3 Drain waste and vent system: Flush out system.

3 Hot water heater: Lubricate circulating pump and motor.

3 Evaporative air conditioner: Clean unit, check belt tension andadjust if needed. Replace cracked or worn belt.

3 Heat pump: Lubricate blower motor.

3 Foundation: Check foundation walls, floors, concrete, and

masonry for cracking, heaving, or deterioration. If a significant num-ber of bricks are losing their mortar, call a professional. If you canslide a nickle into a crack in your concrete floor, slab or foundationcall a professional immediately.

3 Roof: Inspect roof surface flashing, eaves, and soffits. Checkflashings around all surface projections and sidewalls.

3 Deck and porches: Check all decks, patios, porches, stairs, andrailings for loose members and deterioration. Open decks and woodfences need to be treated every 4-6 years, depending on how muchexposure they get to sun and rain. If the stain doesn't look like itshould or water has turned some of the wood a dark grey, hire a pro-fessional to treat your deck and fence.

3 Landscape: This is a natural for spring home maintenance. Cutback and trim all vegetation and overgrown bushes from structures.Limbs and leaves can cut into your home's paint and force you tohave that side of the house repainted. A little trimming can save a lotof money and time.

3 Sprinklers: Check lawn sprinkler system for leaky valves,exposed lines, and improperly working sprinkler heads. If there is an

Checklist: Spring Maintenance



lawn and garden

By Michelle Goff

Landscaper Randy Thacker believes that when it comes to plants, lessmight be more.

"You have all of these favorite plants and you want to put every plantyou like around your house," notes Thacker, owner of Top QualityLandscaping.

"You're better off using complimentary colors, shapes, textures andsizes and not overcrowding. You're probably not going to be able toput every plant you like around your house."

Thacker, who has 30 years of landscaping experience, feels the sameway about using lighting as accent or along walkways.

"Don't overdo it," he advises. "You don't want an airport runway. Tenfeet between every light is good, so instead of 15 lights, you havemaybe seven or eight."

Before opening Top Quality 25 years ago, Thacker worked at AmPatand his years as a landscaper has taught him to appreciate landscapingas an art form.

"People need to think: 'How big are the flowers going to get? Whenare they going to bloom?'" he notes. "If you have perennials, they'regoing to bloom for a short period and you'll have some color in thespring, summer or fall. You have to know all of this and not over-crowd."

Although Thacker considers an individual customer's need whendeciding on a plan, he offers some general landscaping advice.

• Limit yourself on annuals. "You have to water them every day.It's a lot of work," Thacker says.

• Don't plant trees too close to the house or under power lines."Keep in mind that the root of a tree will grow as big as the top of thefoliage," he says. "The roots can get under the septic system and breakup the driveway."

• Don't mow the lawn too low. "If you mow too low, you'll brownyour grass out," he says. Instead, Thacker advises to keep your grassaround two inches high.

• Plant in good soil. "People overlook what they're planting in,"Thacker says. "You need a good mix of organic matter and top soil.Avoid planting in clay. It will dwarf your plants."

John Page, who has owned Sunshine Grow Shop since 1992, agreeson the importance of soil as well as water.

"The main thing is good drainage and that the water doesn't stand in

the soil," Page says. "If it stands, the plant dies."

Page sells a variety of ornamental trees and shrubs at Sunshine Growincluding Japanese maples, weeping cherries and magnolias. AlthoughFebruary usually represents a prime time for pruning, Page says, "It'sa good time to prune now. Now's a good time for people to trim rosebushes back, too."

He says March and April are good months to plant trees and adds,"Fall's a good time, too, but people don't take advantage of it. In thefall, they don't have to worry about watering or frost."

Page also cautions folks to pay attention to the hardiness label whenpurchasing plants.

"We're in zone six," he notes.

Of course, there's more to landscaping than flowers and plants, andThacker mentions water features as a popular trend.

"Water features are easier to do than most people think," he says."Most people think you have to do something large, but you can dosomething low cost."

According to Thacker, a landscaper must keep a customer's lifestyle inmind when designing a yard, but he says homeowners should alsoconsider this when sculpting their own lawns.

"You need to continue to maintain the design," Thacker says. "If youdon't, that's like buying a new car and never changing the oil."

Expert tips for creating abeautiful landscape


While there are plenty of books and magazines that illustrate dec-orating styles that you can use in your home, there are also a few"decorating don'ts" that you should keep in mind when decorat-ing and accessorizing your home. While you should feel free toexpress yourself creatively when decorating your home, by keep-ing these few guidelines in mind, you will avoid some of the pit-falls that can be detrimental to the overall effect of your decorat-ing efforts.

DDOONN''TT CCHHOOOOSSEE YYOOUURR PPAAIINNTT CCOOLLOORR FFIIRRSSTTThere are an almost limitless number of paint colors available, andmany paint stores will even custom-match a paint shade from anyswatch of fabric or item that you can bring in. It's much more difficultto find a sofa that looks good with the paint color you have boughtthan to find a paint that looks good with the sofa fabric. Unless youare using a neutral wall color, choosing your paint color first will limityour options.

DDOONN''TT NNEEGGLLEECCTT YYOOUURR RROOOOMM''SS NNAATTUURRAALL FFOOCCAALL PPOOIINNTTIf you have a room that has a natural focal point in it, such as a fire-place or large picture window, enhance it instead of ignoring it. If youneglect to enhance the room's focal point, you will be missing out onthe opportunity for a lot of design pizzazz.

NNOOTT EEVVEERRYYTTHHIINNGG HHAASS TTOO MMAATTCCHH"Cookie cutter" rooms where everything coordinates perfectly tend tobe a little dull. Instead, work towards a color scheme for the room thatincludes a couple of coordinating accent colors, combined with a cou-ple of neutral shades. Using this color scheme as a base, you can com-bine furniture of various styles and accessories that complement eachother but do not match, as well as adding other styles to create aninteresting eclectic look.

DDOONN''TT PPLLAACCEE AALLLL YYOOUURR FFUURRNNIITTUURREE AAGGAAIINNSSTT TTHHEE WWAALLLLSSDon't place all the furniture in a room directly against the walls unlessyou are really limited by the room's size or shape. Instead, createinteresting groupings of furniture within the room, which will give awarm and more inviting look.

DON'T CREATE DIFFICULT WALKWAYSAlways design the layout of a room to create a good flow through theroom, without creating awkward corners and obstacles. A clear walk-way will make the room feel better designed.

DDOONN''TT DDIISSPPLLAAYY TTOOOO MMAANNYY KKNNIICCKKKKNNAACCKKSSWhile personal accessories and mementos can add a nice touch to aroom, using too many small decorating items and knickknacks willsimply make a room look and feel cluttered. Instead, display a few ata time, and create interesting collections of items as opposed to scat-tering items all over the room

DON'T ADD FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES THAT DON'TSERVE A PURPOSEEverything you use in decorating your room should be there for a rea-son, whether it's because it is useful or because you especially like itor find it attractive. Using fewer items in a room as opposed to moreis often a more effective decorating approach.

DDOONN''TT UUSSEE CCOOLLOORRSS OORR IITTEEMMSS TTHHAATT ""CCLLAASSHH""While eclectic decorating can be a fun and stylish way to accessorizea room, some colors and styles of items just do not look good togeth-er. Avoid using items together that are just plainly mismatched in anunattractive fashion.

DDOONN''TT BBUUYY FFUURRNNIITTUURREE AANNDD AACCCCEESSSSOORRIIEESS BBAASSEEDD SSOOLLEELLYYOONN PPRRIICCEEDon't always buy the cheapest of everything. In many cases, youwould be better off to put off the purchase until you save up enoughmoney to get a better quality item, especially if it is something thatwill be used a lot, such as a sofa.

DDOONN''TT LLEETT OOTTHHEERRSS DDIICCTTAATTEE YYOOUURR DDEECCOORRAATTIINNGG SSTTYYLLEEUnless you live alone, you will undoubtedly need to coordinate yourdecorating preferences with at least one other person. However, neverlet somebody else totally sway you when making decorating deci-sions.

Courtesy ARA Contnet


decorating

EXPERT DECORATING TIPS10 Home decorating don'ts



The latest collection of DwellStudio for Target bedding hit stores onFebruary 14th, and this batch of bedding is their best yet. The newdesigns feature a palette of blues, chocolate brown and pops of yel-low. The designs are inspired by nature and far-flung destinations withnames like 'Casablanca' and 'Algiers.' (Above: Mandala Shams andQuilts, $25 to $80, Target.)

Check out a sneak peek at all the new DwellStudio for Target designs:

Photo: DwellStudio for TargetBird in Vine Shams and Quilts, $25 to $80, Target.

Photo: DwellStudio for TargetDwellStudio for Target Decorative Throw Pillows, $25 each, Target

Photo:DwellStudio forTargetCasablancaShams andQuilts, $25 to$80, Target.

Photo: DwellStudio for TargetAlgiers Comforter Sets, $70 for full/queen, $80 for king, Target.


spring decorating

NNEEWW FFRROOMM DDWWEELLLLSSTTUUDDIIOO FFOORR TTAARRGGEETTDwellStudio for Target debuts four new bedding patterns and throw pillows.

real estate

(ARA) - With many signs pointing to the beginnings of a recovery inthe housing market, potential home buyers can still find plenty ofselection, low prices and low interest rates. If you're thinking of buy-ing a home, now might be the right time, but before you contact a realestate agent or apply for a mortgage, your top priority should bechecking your credit report to see if your credit is in good shape.

Credit - specifically misuse and misunderstanding of credit - spurredthe housing crisis, many experts agree. The consequences haveincluded tighter standards from lenders and the need for borrowers tobetter understand how to use credit wisely.

Interest rates remain low and those with good credit will be betterpositioned to take advantage of the opportunities currently available inthis unique housing market. A good credit report and score can opendoors for you in the real estate world, and empower you to secure thebest loan and terms possible before you ever tour a single house.Being preapproved for an affordable mortgage can help you movequickly to secure a deal when you find the home of your dreams.

If you've already assessed your finances to determine how much mort-gage you can afford, you're ready for the next step - making sure yourcredit is in top shape to help you get the best possible loan.

Understanding your score and what it means Lenders consider your credit score and your current credit reportwhen deciding whether or not you're a good credit risk. Your creditscore is a number generated by using statistical models that factor inelements from your credit report. The number can change when infor-mation on your credit report changes and it's calculated at the time alender requests a copy of your credit report. Different lenders may usedifferent scoring methods, so your score may vary from lender tolender.

Because credit scores are objective and are based on the informationin your credit report, they are fairer than the old opinion-based waysof determining a person's risk level. Your score is a prediction of yourlikelihood to repay debt responsibly, based on your past credit historyand current credit status.

Before you begin contacting potential lenders, check out your creditreport, which can be accessed online at Web sites likeFreeCreditReport.com.

Know what's on your credit report Your credit report is the other major piece of information a lender willconsider when deciding whether or not to give you a mortgage loan.Your credit report is basically a summary of your financial behavior,including how you've used credit in the past and how well you man-age repaying debt. The information on your report comes from credi-tors, public records and other reliable sources, which report it to thecredit bureaus through automated processes.

Credit reports generally include personal data such as variations onyour name, your driver's license number, Social Security number,birth date, current and past employers, and current and past addresses.You'll also find a listing of your credit accounts, when each accountwas opened and your payment history for each. If you've beeninvolved in court action like bankruptcy or monetary judgments, thisinformation will likely appear on your report as well.

Your report will also show past requests for your credit reports(inquiries) that might come from lenders, insurers, employers orstores. Too many inquiries on your report might make potentiallenders think you are trying to overspend, so think carefully beforeapplying for new credit; inquiries stay on your report for two years.

Because your credit report changes every time you use credit, it paysto enroll in a credit monitoring product. Web sites likeFreeCreditReport.com make it easy to track both your score over timeand monitor your credit report, ensuring you know what's on yourreport before a potential lender looks at it.

Buying a home is likely the largest investment you'll ever make - onethat will impact your credit for many years to come. Before you jumpinto the process of applying for a loan to buy a home, it pays tounderstand credit, review your report and know your score.


Understanding your credit opens thedoor to home-buying success

10| Everything Home/Spring 2010

spring decorating

HOW TO... UPDATE YOUR BEDROOM

STEP 1: PAINT AND REDECO-RATE YOUR WALLSPainting is one of the simplest and most effectiveways to alter a room. Cover the entire wall witha flat paint color. Then, tape off sections of thewall to make large stripes, either vertical or hori-zontal. Paint inside the tape with the same colorbut in a semi-gloss finish. Greens, tans and graysare currently trending, but Tuscan andMediterranean themes boasting greens, browns,golds and oranges are also strutting their wayinto bedrooms. More tips: How to paint stripeson a wall.

Not into stripes? Linda Dempsey, customer serv-ice associate at Lowe’s, recommends affixing achair railing on two walls as a focal point. Putwallpaper above or below it, and paint the otherside.

STEP 2: CUT A RUG -- ANDCHANGE YOUR FLOORINGJamie Conway, paint and home décor departmentmanager at Lowe’s, says wood flooring is all therage in master bedrooms. Opt for dark or lightwood in 2-inch-wide interlocking planks. Shealso suggests adding a new rug to the bedroomand changing it seasonally for constant variation.

STEP 3: CHANGE YOUR WIN-DOW COVERINGSStill have those 80s blue floral curtains adorningyour windows? Replace them with new curtainsand coordinating pillows, and add a decorativecurtain rod that extends beyond the width of the window so the cur-tains don’t actually close, advise Conway and Dempsey.

Both ladies agree that new blinds are imperative and say wood, fauxwood and cellular (insulating) blinds are the current design infatuationof homeowners. People are gravitating toward wood tones with thenatural grain to match their cabinets.

STEP 4: SPRUCE UP YOUR DÉCORTransform the mood and style of your bedroom by altering the light-ing. Get creative with hanging pendant lights, revamp the classic floorlamp, or go modern with organic table lamps.

Hang floating shelves for contemporary style or arrange decorative 1-foot-square mirrors in a pattern on a painted wall. And don’t forget tochange your hardware -- dresser knobs, door handles and ceiling fan -- to match your other items.

STEP 5: GET SOME NEW FURNITURE, WELL,SORT OF…You don’t have to buy all new furniture for a new bedroom. Conwaysuggests purchasing faux crackle paint for stylish throwback furniture.The faux finish can be used to age any furniture that has a woodenfinish for an antique or shabby chic look. Your new furniture neverlooked so old!

Tired of your master bedroom's blah style? You don't have to spend a fortune to get a designer room.Follow these five easy steps to spruce up your master bedroom on your own!


The winter doldrums are over and the sun is shining again. Letyour home be an extension of this time of year by kicking outreminders of the depressing winter and welcome in the cheerysigns of spring.

11.. CCOOLLOORRFFUULL PPIILLLLOOWWSSThis is a cheap and easy way to brighten up any room. Put the darkheavy pillows in storage and invite Spring into your home with a fewlovely yellow, green or pink colored pillows.

22.. RREEPPAAIINNTTNothing changes a room more dramatically than a fresh coat of paint.Brighten up the mood from dark and dreary to fresh and fun with thepower of paint.

33.. CCHHAANNGGEE YYOOUURR WWIINNDDOOWW DDRREESSSSIINNGGSpring is all about light and airy so take down the heavy drapes andsun blocking blinds and put up some sheer, light colored curtainsinstead.

44.. FFRREESSHH FFLLOOWWEERRSSFlowers are a definite sign of new life, so bring some inside yourhome. Not only with the sight of fresh flowers brighten up a room,but the pleasant fragrance will help set the tone for Spring.

55.. PPUUTT AAWWAAYY TTHHEE BBLLAANNKKEETTSSYou won’t need to curl up under a think blanket any longer, so putthose in storage with your dark pillows and bring out light, thin,brightly colored throws for those cool and breezy Spring nights.

66.. WWHHAATT WWAASS OOLLDD IISS NNEEWW AAGGAAIINNYour dark and brooding chairs and sofas may have been comfortingduring those long cold months, but now that it’s Spring, they’re justdepressing. Lighten up your furniture by getting light colored or floralpatterned slipcovers. It’s a heck of a lot cheaper than buying new fur-niture and it’s just as effective.

77.. MMOORREE TTHHAANN PPAAIINNTT OONN YYOOUURR WWAALLLLSSArt can also affect the tone of your room. When the weather breaks,look for images that more accurately reflect the time of year. Photosor paintings of landscapes and florals will assist in putting you in amuch better mind set.

88.. TTHHRROOWW OOUUTT TTHHEE RRUUGGSSOkay, maybe don’t throw them out, but do put them with the otherheavy accents in your home – in storage. Throw rugs help keep thingscozy and toasty, especially if you have hard wood floors, but it’swarm now, so get rid of the stuffy carpets and lay down colorful,lightweight rugs instead.

9. ROOM WITH A VIEWDuring the winter we like to build roaring fires to keep us warm,therefore our furniture is usually centered around the mantel. Sinceyou won’t be using your fireplace in the next several months,rearrange your furniture so you are facing a lovelier view, like that ofyour garden.

1100.. TTAAKKEE IITT OOUUTTSSIIDDEESpring is the perfect time to get your outdoor areas ready for guests.Spruce up your porch or deck and make it a pleasant place to sit andrelax with your friends well into the Summer months. Coordinatecomfortable furniture with bright accents and place handy tablesaround to place cool drinks on.

Courtesy of ARA Content


spring decorating

Redecorating the home for spring

LLIIGGHHTTEENN UUPP FFOORR SSPPRRIINNGG!!




The return of birds and birdsong are one of spring's mostwelcome signs. This year, retailers are acknowledging this with prettyavian motifs on all sorts of home decor.

Pottery Barn's collection features sparrow printed bedding and tablelinens, embroidered and printed pillows, and even a wall canvas withan antique bird illustration. There are stoneware birdbath servingbowls, and mugs with wee "nests" tucked into the handles.

CB2's spring line features a striking accent pillow designed by artistDouglas Sheran, who is a member of Creativity Explored, a nonprofitvisual arts center for the developmentally disabled in San Francisco.His bird illustration, in a swath of rich green over black and white,resembles Japanese brush painting.

There are some new takes on popular hues this season. Two in particu-lar look especially fresh:

— Blue.The adaptable blues are back in a big way. They're popping up all oversoft furnishings and tabletop pieces. Bright versions give a room abracing shot of color, while muted versions, paired with white orchalky yellows, are soothing. For inspiration, check out the Grandeurand Harmony palettes in Olympic Paint's new Audubon collection.

Anthropologie offers a beautiful ceramic knob festooned with brightblue dots; a set of those would refresh the kitchen cabinets. There's thecharmingly named Grace towel collection too, in blues and pinks,embroidered with springy flowers.

French blue and Wedgwood blue are elegant tones: Homegoods' bluecrocodile-printed leather slipper chair looks swanky, but is priced mod-estly.

Pottery Barn's soft, silky blue throw will comfort on a rainy spring day.Z Gallerie is stocking a French blue filigreed urn, and a beautiful resinplaque embossed with a realistic blue chrysanthemum.

Pier 1 and Homegoods have several unusual bowls in their spring col-lections that look like melted blue beach glass, as well as new versionsof the multifunctional ceramic stool, this year in vibrant turquoise.

— Blush.That ethereal pinky peach color often called blush is another importantshade for spring fashion; it'll be just as big in decor.

With any of the new creamier pastels and light woods, it's romanticand cottage-y — Pier 1 has a floral-printed glass vase and a delicatelyruffled toss pillow that fit the bill.

With black or chocolate accents, blush reads modern; its versatilitymakes it appealing.

Burke Decor has Simrin's rose-shaped placemats, embroidered withmetallic threads; while inspired by vintage fabrics, they have a nicegraphic quality that would suit a contemporary place setting just asnicely. And Burke's luscious Plum Pretty Sugar duvet set in pink toneslooks just like ribbon candy — sweet, like the first taste of spring.

Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.

Burke Decor, rug, throw, planter, silk pillows, placemats.Anthropologie; knobs, door knobs.Pier 1; ruffle pillow.Pottery Barn; bedding, serving bowls.


Bringing theoutdoorsinsideThe return of birds and bird-song are one of spring's mostwelcome signs. This year,retailers are acknowledgingthis with pretty avian motifson all sorts of home decor.

Garden Living

spring decorating





Spring Decorating

6 Garden Living; Bringing the outdoors in

9 Lighten up for spring; redecorating the home for spring

10 How to update your bedroom

11 New from DwellStudio for Target

12 Expert decorating tips

Home Maintenance

14 Checklist: Spring Maintenance

15 Spring-Cleaning Checklist

Home improvement16 Small Bathroom Design

18 Kitchens: Counter Intelligence

Exterior Maintenance20 Roofs now take on an artistic look

21 If it’s not leaking, why does my roof need to be replaced?

22 How can I fix my splintering deck?

Lawn and Garden24 Expert tips for creating a beautiful landscape

Real Estate26 Understanding your credit opens the door to

home-buying success

SPRING 2010

Spring is a time of new beginnings. Flowers and plants are bloom-ing, the sun is shining and the weather is finally getting warmerafter winter's chill. So why not bring some of spring's beauty intoyour home so you can enjoy it day after day?

As a homeowner, you have already made one of the most importantinvestments that you can make for your family’s future. But itshouldn’t stop there. Owning a home is not a static thing—as youno doubt know. If you make smart choices about the improvementsyou do to your home, not only will it give you years of enjoyment,but a very nice return on investment should decide to sell.

Our spring edition of Everything Home is full of ideas, big andsmall, to renew and refresh your home inside and out. We hope youenjoy our new look as well!

PUBLISHER:

Jeff Vanderbeck

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR:

Mike Davis

SECTION DESIGN: Special Publications

ManagerTracie Vanderbeck

ADVERTISING DESIGN:

Jamie Beckett

Daniel Bush

SALES REPS

Ashley Smith

Krista Duty

Lynn Massey

Mellisa Keller

Tony Thacker

A Special Supplement to the Appalachian News-Express201 Caroline Avenue, Pikeville, Kentucky

606-437-4054

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Everything Home March 2010