2009 fall home improvement

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Fall

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The Anniston Star 3 Fall Home Improvement

Few people want to think about becoming physically incapacitated by an injury or illness. However, these things can happen, even to the healthiest of people. Retrofitting a home to be accessible to all ages and abilities is some-thing one might want to consider when embarking on home renovations. A physical disability brought on by age, illness or an injury can likely require some changes being made at home to facilitate movement and comfort by the disabled individual. Many projects can easily be done by a do-it-yourselfer or hired out to a contractor as a short-term assignment. Also, many of these renovations are affordable and can be started immediately.

Entryway•A well-lit entryway is a must in all situations, and pro-vides safety upon entering the home. If you don’t want to have an outdoor light on at all times, a motion-activated light can help.

•Repair any cracks in pavers or missing portions of the en-tryway to remove trip hazards. If your entryway is difficult to maneuver from the street or driveway, consider a differ-ent layout to make the trip to the front door easier.

Home Renovations to Benefit all PHysical aBilities

See Physical Abilities, page 7

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Installing a new roof, updating a kitchen, adding another room to a home -- these are the things that come to mind when one thinks of a home-improvement project. However, what good are these improvements if you don’t also renovate the way you think about safety in the home? A safety hazard can quickly escalate and ruin all of your hard work. According to recent accident statistics from the National Safety Council, the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control and other advocacy groups, approximately 45 percent of unintentional injury deaths occurred in and around the home. Unintentional home injury deaths to children are caused primarily by fire and burns, suffocation, drowning, firearms, falls, choking, and poisoning.

It is important to keep safety in mind with everything you do as a homeowner. Therefore, take the time to assess these areas of potential concern as part of any home-improvement plans:

smaRtest imPRovement? a safety Renovation

•Periodically check your hot water tank, washing machine, dishwasher, and refrigerator icemaker to see if they are secure and leak-free.

•Keep supplemental heating sources, such as wood-burning stoves, or kerosene, propane or electrical heaters at least 3 feet away from flammable items including draperies and clothing.

•Don’t store flammable items, or just about anything too close to furnaces or hot water tanks.

•Carefully monitor the electrical system for shorts and sparks. Do not run cords under rugs or heavy furniture, and do not overload electrical outlets.

•Keep chemical cleaning products, home-repair items, like paint and mineral spirits, and tools under lock and key or out of reach of children.

•Do not store combustible materials like newspapers and rags in the basement or garage.

•Burn only dry, seasoned hardwood in your fireplace, and regularly have the chimney inspected and cleaned.

•Install a working smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector on every floor of the home.

•Inspect surrounding trees and cut down any dead limbs. If a tree doesn’t seem sound to you, bring in an expert tree service to remove it. You don’t want a tree crashing down during a powerful storm.

•Make sure steps, both indoors and outdoors, are level and intact. Install better lighting at entryways to improve safety.

•Install a safety fence around a pool with a locked gate.

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Home Buyer FactsMost home buyers replace basic shelving within the fi rst few years of moving into a new home. They replace the shelving because what the builders install doesn’t meet their priorities.

64% of new home buyers say they do not have adequate storage in their new homes according to the NAHB Study: What do 21st Century Homebuyers Want.

Closets are used twice a day, every day.

Home Buyers Demand Better Storage!Better Homes and Gardens recently surveyed 2,000 home owners and discovered that the right amount and type of storage was their 2nd priority when buying a new home*! In addition, a recent Roper Research survey showed that home buyers rate large walk-in closets as the 2nd most important feature in their dream home**. In both studies, storage is second only to a state-of-the-art kitchen.

How can you build dream homes? Listen to the home buyer and give closets the attention they deserve! Make them second only to the kitchen in your next community.*Better Homes and Gardens, January 2008 research study**Gfk Roper Reports US, 2004-4, Q62, GfK Roper Consulting

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If the roller coaster economy has dampened your plans for sprucing up your home, then think again. You can make a dramatic change to an outdated kitchen without a huge investment. Create new excitement by simply replacing your countertop with one made from the latest generation of lami-nate.

Have you looked lately at the design possibilities this reasonably priced material can bring to your kitchen or bath? Today’s laminate is more striking than ever before. The color and texture choices of Wilsonart(R) Laminate are amazing. It’s possible to find laminate styles and finishes that take inspiration from granite, marble, glass -- even the surface of the moon -- sparing your budget in the process.As today’s kitchens have become more sophisticated with the use of high-drama materials like stainless steel, chrome, copper, and black glass, the adjoining countertop surfaces should complement these colors. When shopping for laminate materials that can complete the high-end look you desire, consider Wilsonart’s just introduced Eclipse Series, with the light and dark dimensional look of engineered quartz surfaces, and Medallion, a rich layering of bronze, red and green shadowed in black that can be interpreted as metal, leather, or even a painted surface.

These are just two of the Wilsonart HD(R) High Definition(R) offer-ings from this laminate design leader. Wilsonart’s Premium designs bring unparalleled clarity and depth to a new Gloss finish, thanks to AEON(TM) Enhanced Performance technology. These surfaces are up to three times more wear resistant than the industry standard and five times more scratch-resistant than previous Gloss-finish laminates.

Wilsonart’s Girona Beach reflects the elegant polished marble and travertine stone found in luxurious European spas and retreats.

tRansfoRm youR sPace WitH affoRdaBle Home imPRovements

In addition to affordable and beautiful laminate counter-tops, here are some other improvements that have high impact without requiring a big financial investment:

•Rather than replacing a dishwasher that doesn’t match your other ap-pliance’s stainless steel theme, purchase stainless steel sheeting with an adhesive backing to apply over the front panel of the dishwasher to match the refrigerator and stove.

•Remove your kitchen cabinet doors, sand and refinish with either new stain or paint. Replace the hardware and achieve a new look without having to spring for new cabinets.

•Lighting can dramatically make over a room. Consider installing small task lights under cabinets to shed more light on countertop areas. Replace dated ceiling fixtures with new.

•If you’re replacing countertops, why not install a new sink as well? New Wilsonart(R) HD(R) Sinks provide more options for today’s custom-minded homeowner, and are specifically designed to be undermounted to laminate countertops.

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Physical Abilities continiued from Page 3

•A self-installed ramp of sturdy wood placed over an existing staircase with non-skid treads can fit the bill for a wheelchair ramp. For something more aesthetically appealing and perma-nent, meet with a contractor to discuss options. Look for an individual with Certified Aging in Place Specialization (CAPS) to ensure the modifications are done safely and up to code.

Bathroom•Round the edges on all countertops and corners to minimize im-pact injuries. Also, consider changing the countertops to a higher contrast color from the cabinets for easier visual recognition.•Install a walk-in tub or shower that is outfitted with dual shower-heads, one at regular height and one that will service a person in a seated position. Make sure the shower valves have anti-scald op-tions.•Consider changing one vanity set-up to a lower height so that a wheelchair can roll underneath.

Bedroom•Make sure someone in a walker, wheelchair or with balance issues is moved to a first-floor bedroom. If the home is not equipped as such, renovate a living space to serve as a bed-room for this individual.•Be sure there is ample room next to the bed for a walker or wheelchair. Change the flooring of this room to wood, tile or linoleum so that tripping or obstruction of a wheelchair is reduced.•Wire the room with phone, cable and possibly an intercom so that the disabled individual can easily be in contact with others.

Kitchen•Make the effort to widen traffic areas to facilitate passage by a wheelchair, scooter or walker.•Change floors to cork or bamboo, which may be softer should a slip or fall occur.•Lower the height of prep areas and cabinets for easy access.•Be sure the table is at the correct height to accommodate a roll-under wheelchair.

Living Spaces•Remove excess clutter and change the flooring for easy maneuverability around the room.•Mounting the television on a wall. This enables you to remove a bulky entertainment center or television console for even more space.•Create smooth transitions between rooms by removing the saddle of molding or decorative flooring accents to prevent trips and snags.

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PRecautionaRy measuRes to KeeP tHe Home WaRm and cozy tHRougH tHe WinteR montHsFor many parts of the country, the summer of 2009 proved rather agreeable. Prolonged heat waves were an aberration rather than the norm while late summer seemed more like early fall than in years past. Though the weather made summer enjoyable, there is still a belief, be it warranted or not, that an agreeable summer will lead to a harsh winter. Regardless of what the weather will bring, however, homeowners need to prepare their homes for winter before the temperatures dip. Readying a home for winter can be done with a few simple chores.

•Replace the furnace filters. Forced air heating systems can be especially taxing on filters. Come the following winter, if those old filters haven’t been replaced, homeowners can expect heating costs to rise dramatically. But ho-meowners who purchase new filters before winter arrives can save money on the cost of filters, and the results of those new filters will show up on the bills once the colder weather arrives.

•Seal the windows. Inspect the windows throughout a house before winter arrives. This can be done easier in fall than in the end of summer because the colder air of fall will make drafts from leaky windows much more noticeable. Kits for sealing windows are inexpensive, and sealing windows before winter arrives can save substantial amounts of money on the monthly heating bill. When sealing the windows or inspecting them for leaks, it’s also a good idea to remove screens and replace them with storm windows. This can ensure cold air stays out and the home stays warm.

•Have the chimney thoroughly inspected. Homeowners with wood burn-ing fireplaces should have their chimneys inspected by a professional chimney sweeper near the end of fall and before winter begins. Creosote, a dark brown oil used as a wood preservative, can build up in a chimney and possibly lead to fires that can spread to the house. Chimney inspections can be free or rela-tively inexpensive and, if a home fire is avoided, are well worth the minimal cost.

•Bring in the plants. Some plants can thrive throughout the winter if wa-tered properly, so be sure to bring those in when doing a pre-winter property inspection. This would also be a good time to bring in any patio furniture or childrens’ toys. Also be sure to bring in the grill before the winter season starts. For homeowners who still grill well into winter, consider a thick cover that can protect it from harsh winter storms.

•Fix any cracks in the porch or sidewalk. Cracks in the front steps or sidewalk leading into the house can potentially prove hazardous once winter weather arrives. The season’s first snowfall can cover up those cracks, but that doesn’t mean they’re not still there. Such cracks can result in trips or falls that, when coupled with winter ice, can potentially result in serious injury.

Whether install-ing new windows or simply inspect-ing existing ones, h o m e o w n e r s should check for and fix all leaks to avoid cold air finding its way inside during the

winter months.

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Your deck has probably given you hours of enjoyment this spring and summer. But family gatherings and summer barbeques can take their toll on any deck. So before the chill in the air turns to harsh winter weather, clean, restore and protect your deck to prepare for the long winter months ahead. Here are a few easy deck maintenance tips to help keep your outdoor living space looking great for years!

Clean and restore: Start by cleaning your deck thoroughly to remove any grayed surface fibers, ground-in dirt, barbeque stains and stains from mold, mildew, moss, and algae. For pressure-treated wood, use an environmentally friendly, acid and chlorine-free, oxygen-powered powder concentrate cleaner, such as Wolman DeckBrite Wood Cleaner & Coating Prep. It is tough on stains yet safe to use near plant life and shrubs. For cedar, redwood, mahogany and other exotic hardwood decks -- or if you’re not sure of the wood type -- consider a cleaner that’s formulated to clean all types of wood like Wolman Deck & Fence Brightener liquid concentrate. These cleaners restore wood to its natural beauty without bleaching or yellowing. In just ten minutes they loosen and lift dirt, stains and discoloration. And they are easy to use -- just mix with water, spray on, brush in and rinse off with a garden hose. If your stained or painted deck has seen better days, consider stripping any faded or deteri-orating finish with Wolman DeckStrip Stain & Finish Remover. It removes both oil and latex solid, semi-transparent or transparent, toner-type stains and prepares your deck for new water repellent sealers or stains. Protect your deck: After cleaning, it’s important to apply a water repel-lent finish like Wolman RainCoat, F&P or DuraStain to your deck before winter’s onslaught. Formulated to stop rain, sleet, snow and ice from penetrating wood surfaces, Wolman water repellent coatings minimize water damage such as splitting or warping. The products offer a guaran-tee against water damage, and provide long lasting protection, so you won’t have to reapply a new coat year after year. Plus, they are available in a variety of colors and opacity levels -- from totally clear to sheer, transparent natural wood tones to semi-transparent shades -- so you can protect your deck while achieving virtually any look you desire.

PRotect youR decK tHis WinteR

Preparing your deck for harsh winter weather is one way to ensure it maintains its look for years to come.

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Global warming has become a top of mind concern for most Ameri-cans over the last few years thanks to the devastating tragedies from tropical storms around the world due to climate change. As a result, more and more people are increasingly sensitive to the en-vironment and show a stronger desire for preserving our resources and recycling. Countless corporations are following suit by incorpo-rating “green” philosophies to their regular product offerings. This “green” trend has made its greatest impact in home decorating with consumers and decorators now gravitating to more eco-friend-ly alternatives for interior decor.

One trend that is leaving a “green” mark in homes across the country is the choice of recycled material countertops over more conventional surfaces. Green countertops are recycled or renewable surfaces that minimize impact on the environment dur-ing their production. They are comprised of different combinations of natural and man-made materials and often include some form of recycled glass. Many are attractive and viable alternatives to con-ventional countertop materials.

The latest entry into this category, Elements by Durcon, is creating quite a buzz as it’s a “green” countertop surface that also offers unmatched durability, cleanliness and aesthetic quali-ties. Durcon, the leading U.S. manufacturer of epoxy resin quartz countertops and sinks for the last 35 years, recently launched an eco-friendly surface variation -- Elements by Durcon -- for the residential and commercial markets. Stone fabricators, dealers and architects across North America agree that the product’s unique qualities and highly durable characteristics set it apart from first generation eco-friendly surface products currently available.

Molded from a proprietary blend of fine quartz, epoxy resin, and recycled glass (i.e., clear beer bottles), the material is solid, non-porous, never requires sealing, and is homogenous in consistency. Its unique manufacturing process produces an incred-ibly silky smooth and durable countertop surface.“Elements is ideal for the discerning customer who desires a unique eco-friend-ly product for kitchen countertops, vanities, fireplace surrounds, and commercial applications,” explained Mark Hanna, President of Montreal-based Leeza Distribution Inc., one of North America’s leading distributors of premium countertops such as Elements by Durcon.Elements is an incredibly safe and durable countertop surface ideal for kitchens, as it is certified by NSF, is a very low VOC emitting material and boasts the highest heat resistance rating available.“Elements is stylishly sleek with a distinctly silky feel that works beautifully with any decor,” Hanna added. “From Old World to ultra-modern, it provides a look that is very unique, timeless and clean.” Its versatility is its strongest attribute. In addition to custom colors, Elements by Durcon is available in two alternate design variations -- “Titanium” and “PUR.” Titanium features a dramatic metallic flecked surface. The highlight of the PUR line is Pristine that is “already a hit with designers,” said Hanna, due to its rare, deep, and absolute white quality that is in high demand in today’s decors.Elements surfaces are so durable that unused and old countertop material is recycled by Durcon for use in road construction. More information on these eco-friendly countertops is available at leeza-distribution.com.

Recycled glass counteRtoPs latest tRend in “gReen” Home decoR

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One of the easiest home improvement projects -- one that will add the most value to your home for the least amount of money -- is painting. It’s easy to keep your paint job looking great so it continues to add value to your home for years to come, just do what professional painters do: use one coat of primer and one coat of paint instead of two coats of paint. Here’s why:

Primers hide previous colors -- even the darkest blues and deepest reds -- far better than paint alone and prevent them from showing through or changing the color of the topcoat. They’ll make your new color look more vibrant and even. Here’s a little secret: By tinting your primer towards your paint color, you’ll use less paint -- plus get all the benefits of priming. Just ask your paint store or home center associate to add one half the same colorant they use to mix your paint.

Primers work hard to block stains. If you try to cover a stain with a fresh coat of paint, the stain will probably bleed through -- no matter how many coats of paint you apply. Quality primers seal in stains and prevent them from ruining your paint job.

Primers prevent common paint problems. Because primers are formulated to prevent problems like cracking, peeling and blistering, they’ll make any painted surface more durable, washable -- and last much longer!

Primers provide a sound base for paint. Paint is formulated to provide rich, beautiful color -- but don’t expect it to do a primer’s job. High quality primers are rich in resin and provide a firm base for paint to adhere. Primers like Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3(R) even stick to glossy, hard-to-paint sur-faces without sanding, so you can paint paneling, cabinets, glossy paints, vinyl siding and more.

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•

•

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Step #1: Score the wallpaper. Most wallpaper has a washable, waterproof surface. Try peeling the top layer away by hand. If it

won’t peel away easily, you need to score the wallpaper first to en-sure that wallpaper stripper solution is able to reach and loosen the glue underneath. PaperTiger Wallpaper Scoring Tool is designed to perforate the wallpaper without damaging the wall for fast and easy scoring. The more holes you make, the faster and easier the paper will come off the walls.

Step #2: Apply a wallpaper stripper like DIF Wallpaper Stripper. Available in a liquid concentrate, gel or fast-acting liquid, it is

safe, non-toxic and easy to use. Apply to one wall at a time, starting at the top and working your way down. DIF is formulated to pen-etrate and breakdown wallpaper paste quickly. In 20 minutes or less, the wallpaper will be ready to be removed.

Step #3: Remove the loose wallpaper. Use a PaperScraper tool to get the wallpaper off the wall without hard work or surface dam-

age. If any glue remains, simply reapply the stripper to the area, wait 15-20 minutes, remove it with PaperScraper or a sponge and rinse with clean water. Before you know it you’ll have clear, wallpaper free walls ready for repainting and redecorating!

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Looking for a weekend home improvement project?

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Home imPRovement PRojects moRe imPoRtant tHan eveR

Families know how important it is to retain the value of their homes, especially when we hear so much about diminish-ing home values and foreclosures. Still, remodeling is one of the best ways to preserve your home’s value and in some parts of the country, homeowners can still recover up to 90 percent of their remodeling costs despite falling home pric-es. If you’re a homeowner who’s in the process of remodel-ing, consider budget-friendly options to get the look you want without breaking the bank. Here are several tips to give you some less expensive options when remodeling.

KitchenThe countertops are one of the high impact surfac-es in your kitchen. While natural stone options like granite and quartz, as well as solid surfaces are allur-ing, they’re expensive and can quickly drain your remodeling budget. Now

is a good time to check out a contemporary laminate countertop, which offers luxury looks at a surprisingly low cost when compared to stone. Wilsonart(R) HD High Definition Laminate is available in 43 designs created specifically for heavy use horizontal surfaces like countertops. The deep, rich look and dimensional texture can give your kitchen countertop the look you want without the sacrifice. Custom cabinets, though gorgeous to look at, can also make a significant dent in your budget plan. To get the same look for less, install oversized crown mold-ing on top of stock cabinets to make them “pop.” Most people won’t notice the difference, and you’ll save enough to buy a new appliance or two.

Family RoomEstimates tell us that adding a family room, as opposed to simply remod-eling one, will help a hom-eowner recoup as much as 80 percent of their original investment at resale. Re-member to plan the space by factoring in the size of

your family, the ages of your kids (and their friends), and perhaps even the possibility of additions to your immediate family, like grandparents or babies. Some families go as far as taking out walls to improve space, but careful planning and wise furniture positioning can help you avoid drastic changes to the room that tend to drain your budget. If you’re handy or can afford to hire a carpenter, built-in shelving and possibly an entertainment/gaming nook are useful and popular additions, and can be painted, stained, or simply covered with laminate to match your decor.

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multi-geneRational design tHe Hot tRend at Home

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Multi-generational design has applications throughout the house, but it is particularly important in the bathroom. A well-thought-out bathroom can easily accommodate the needs of young children, older adults and those with disabilities. And while there are many practical considerations that play an important role in the design process, including safety, space, comfort and ease of use, being “sensible” doesn’t mean the bathroom has to look utilitarian. Quite the opposite, in fact.

Smart design has always been a hallmark of MTI Whirlpools, whose designs are based on the premise that form must fol-low function. Toward that end, while style is of paramount importance for MTI, it must simultaneously be thoughtful, not allowing versatility and functionality to be sacrificed. From low-profile shower bases to easy-entrance tubs, MTI has a wide variety of products that allow homeowners to enjoy a bathroom environment that is as aesthetically pleasing as it is univer-sally functional.

Accommodating ShowersAs the profile of the American family evolves to embrace a wide spectrum of ages, and needs, the principles of multi-generational design become increasingly important, especially in the bathroom. MTI offers an extensive assortment of shower bases and frameless shower enclosures with the multi-generational family in mind. Just one of 7 different seated shower bases, the Jeu d’Eau can even be equipped with whirlpool jets for bathing young children or for an adult foot bath. MTI also currently offers over 50 shower bases in different sizes, shapes and materials. Some are constructed of Engineered Solid-Surface material, which is a mixture of ground minerals and high-performance resins that are liquefied, poured and then hardened. These “molded stone” bases feature a low-profile, multiple-threshold design for versa-tile installation, great looks and easy entrance. These bases are high in both design and function.

Sensible TubsA luxurious tub is the centerpiece of any well-appointed bathroom. Comfort and practicality need not be sacrificed when designing a bath-room for multi-generation use. MTI has an amazing collection of over 150 tub designs from which to choose in all sizes, shapes and styles. And if you require a tub that can provide easier entry and exit, 17 models are only 19” high or less. Two particular models, the Metro 1 and Metro 2, boast a clean, contemporary design and feature a generous front deck that is 11” wide, which serves as a transfer surface, allowing the bather to sit down on the edge and then turn into the tub instead of climbing over the edge. A coordinating contemporary tub surround has been designed just for this model. This handcrafted piece of furniture complements the tub and provides additional storage and decora-tive display space recessed in front under the wide deck area. The use of a transitional design enclosure will enable the Metro to integrate with a more traditional setting.

Changing Family Dynamic Highlights Need for Form and Function

Multi-generational design is one of today’s fastest growing trends in the housing industry. As more and more people understand the benefits that smart planning af-fords to those of all age groups and abilities, a demand is be-ing generated for products that combine style, safety, beauty and comfort with practicality and versatility. In fact, it’s what good, smart design should be.


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Little Things That Make A Big DifferenceRegardless of the size and style of tub selected, there are a number of modest enhancements that can be made to add significantly to the bath environment, making it more multi-generationally sensitive. For instance, safety and security can be increased for all members with the addition of grab bars inside and/or outside the tub. Available in a variety of sizes, materials and finishes, these grab bars are designed to be both decora-tive and functional. While providing cosmetic accent, properly positioned grab bars are a low-cost, preventative addition that people of all ages will find helpful. Other popular additions for consideration include:

•Hand-held shower. This handy device can be used to rinse the body while bathing, and it also makes hair-washing easier.

•Neck Pillows. Soft, durable vinyl pillows are available in a variety of shapes to provide neck support, comfort and relaxation.

•Neck Jet Pillows. These pillows offer the additional benefit of an incomparable neck massage by using two high-quality micro-jets of a whirlpool system.

•Radiance(R). This patent-pending innovation from MTI applies radiant heat technology to acrylic bath tubs to warm the interior surface of the bath for neck, shoulders, back and bottom. It provides an even distribution of warmth to eliminate the shock of a cold tub and increases relaxation during the bath.

•Virtual Spout. This high-flow tub filler takes the place of a traditional spout. Not only does it contribute to a very clean appearance, but it also eliminates the usual filling spout as a possible source of injury.


Being out and about is simply the “norm” these days. Rain or shine, practically a third of each day is spent outside of the home. What returns indoors with us can be a problem, however. Did you know that as much as 85 percent of the contaminants in your home got there via your family and you? Healthy and green living experts suggest stopping dirt, germs and other contaminants at the door. Not exactly sure how? A re-designed family-friendly entrance -- mudroom or laundry room -- is the perfect solution.

The mudroom concept is as old as the horse-drawn plow. Manor houses and farms usually had a back room or porch where muddy clothes and boots were deposited and hard-working family members washed up before entering the main house -- an early version of today’s back door. However, with the advent of indoor plumbing and eventual other “modern conveniences,” mudrooms were sacrificed and the laundry room evolved into the home’s “family” entrance or transitional room between the not-so-clean garage and the main living space.

If you are striving to create and maintain a healthier living environment for your family, and changes to your home’s “transitional room” are in the works, consider including some of the following to make the space functional, healthy and as attractive as possible:

Longtime champions of the mudroom/laundry room re-design include Martha Stewart and architect Sarah Susanka. In her best-selling book, “The Not So Big House,” Susanka suggests transforming this often used, often overlooked area into an ultra functional yet very attractive space. Adding plenty of natural light will keep it bright and inviting. And a plethora of storage and space requirements will be satisfied by incorporating built-in cabinets, countertops, even an island. Cabinetry will store and organize, while counter space will allow for bill-paying, mail-sorting, scrap-booking, gift wrapping, crafting activities, indoor gardening, and even a computer workstation. That’s total functionality and here’s how U.S. hardwoods fit right into the design mix. According to the Ameri-can Hardwood Information Center (www.HardwoodInfo.com), U.S. hardwoods are the all-natural choice for sturdy, attractive and healthy design materials. Not only nature’s “greenest” building material, hardwoods are easy to maintain, don’t trap dust, dirt and other allergens and are often recommended by doctors for individuals with allergies or asthma. Plus, the wide range of species provides a spectrum of colors and grain patterns to satisfy any decorating scheme. And with native growth well exceeding removal, the U.S. supply of hardwoods for cabinetry, furniture, shelving, flooring, and millwork is -- by definition -- sustainable now and for future generations. Oak, maple, hickory, and cherry make wonderful and popular species choices for cabinets and shelves. They are available in hundreds of styles and finishes and will suit any decorating preference. Then complete your design with bead board paneling complimented by hardwood floor-ing. Low-VOC finishes keep hardwoods looking great and performing well. And today’s durable new finishes make U.S. hardwoods a wonderful choice even for wet, humid environments.

Re-designing a family-fRiendly entRance WitH u.s. HaRdWoods

The multifunc-tional laundry room of Ameri-can Woodmark’s New Southern Home features sleek maple cabinetry in a work-inducing environment.

1. Hooks and hangers for coats, wraps and rainwear2. A bench for boot and shoe removal3. Cabinets or walk-in closets for storage4. Adjustable height shelving for purses, backpacks and briefcases5. A vertical locker for storing baseball bats, skis, hockey sticks or other items6. An umbrella stand7. Hooks for pet leashes and clean-up supplies8. A bulletin board to post schedules and keep families on track9. Trash can and recycling containers10. A General “catch-all” for car keys and other commonly used items

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If you’re among the many homeowners thinking of replacing your home’s windows to take advantage of the $1,500 federal tax credits for energy efficient upgrades, you may be wondering where to start. Understanding which windows and patio doors may be best for your home can be difficult given the wide range of products -- from inexpensive vinyl windows with limited options to wood and aluminum-clad wood with countless upgrades. There are many avenues for learning about windows and doors, and for purchasing your windows.

The InternetThe Internet is helpful for researching windows and doors and manufacturers, and gaining an understanding of window and door construction and terminology. “The Internet can help homeowners learn about window and door manufacturers and their products, and to develop a short list of preferred manufacturers,” said Chris Schield of Weather Shield Windows & Doors, which provides an overview of the basics on windows and doors at www.weathershield.com. “Homeowners should then get a first-hand account of a product’s performance, actual price and features from a reputable window and door dealer, installed sales company, or a building or remodeling contractor.” Manufacturers’ Web sites can also help you search for the closest dealer. By searching Weather Shield’s dealer locator, for example, you can identify nearby lumberyards, window and door dealers, and installed sales companies or replacement contractors that sell that brand. Which dealer you choose will depend on how much information you may need, the complexity of the project and if you plan to install the windows yourself.

Installed SalesMaybe you’ve already received a direct mail piece or a call from a company selling packages of replacement windows with installation. Installed sales companies cut down your research time by coming to you. Before buying from an installed sales company, verify the quality and performance of the windows and doors, and the company’s reputation.“The federal tax credits have helped increase homeowner interest in window replacement, which has also increased the number of unlicensed, fly-by-night companies wanting to capitalize

on the opportunity,” Schield said. “Homeowners should verify references and credentials of any company before signing a contract or writing a check.” Schield suggests buying from companies that are members of the Better Business Bureau, have a long history and employ certified American Architectural Manufacturers Association installers. Calling past customers for a reference will also help prepare you for the purchase.Lumberyards/Window and Door DealerAt a lumberyard or window and door dealer, you’ll generally find a more consultative sales approach. The salespeople are well versed in product lines, home construction, remodeling and even building codes, and can help you determine what will work best for your project. Larger dealers often have extensive showrooms that give you an up-close look at many different product lines and design options in display walls, which provides context as to how a product looks installed. “Window and door dealers can educate homeowners on the latest product innovations and can also be a source for installation or design consultation,” Schield said. “They can be especially helpful in coordinating the details of larger, more complicated replacement projects.”

Home Improvement RetailerHome improvement retail stores display a limited selection of window and door brands and styles, and sometimes inventory standard sizes in the most-requested styles. If you’d like particular options or a specialty shape, the salespeople can place a special order with one of the manufacturers they sell. Keep in mind, if you’re perusing for the brand you saw on the Internet, it may not be carried at the store down the street, as these stores often carry only a few brands.These stores have the corner on convenience. Many carry a large variety of millwork and other products, so you can pick up caulking and shims at the same time. Many also can handle installation for you or recommend a contractor to install your windows.

Lumberyards/Window and Door DealerAt a lumberyard or window and door dealer, you’ll generally find a more consultative sales approach. The salespeople are well versed in product lines, home construction, remodeling and even building codes, and can help you determine what


21

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will work best for your project. Larger dealers often have extensive showrooms that give you an up-close look at many different product lines and design options in display walls, which provides context as to how a product looks installed. “Window and door dealers can educate homeowners on the latest product innovations and can also be a source for installation or design consultation,” Schield said. “They can be especially helpful in coordinating the details of larger, more complicated replacement projects.”

Choosing where to buy your windows and doors is an important decision, but it doesn’t have to be a lengthy undertaking. By researching brands, products, styles and options online before visiting a retailer or showroom, you’ll be more comfortable talking with a salesperson and more likely to choose the windows and doors best suited for your home and your lifestyle.

Many types of businesses sell windows and doors. The level of service, knowledge, and product selection and quality will vary between each. Buying from a member of the Better Business Bureau in good standing, an established business and a company that uses installers certified by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association will help ensure you’re satisfied with your investment.

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Beyond its ultra-durability, Quartz has also become the focal point of kitchen and bathroom designs across North America because of its uniquely sophisticated and timeless look. Now these same distinct characteristics can also be found underfoot with the new elegant Accolade Quartz tile collection. This hot entry in the premium quartz surface category is poised to leave an imprint on this established decor trend.

“With a palette characterized for combining the most sought-after tones with extraordinary depth and clarity, this collection is design-driven for fashionable concepts,” explained Mark Hanna, President of Montreal-based Leeza Distribution Inc., one of North America’s leading distributors of fine quartz surfaces including the new Accolade Quartz Tile Collection. “Maintaining solid performance and durability, this quartz tile collection is suited for a wide range of design needs from contemporary accents to the latest trends.”

The highlight of the collection is its unique color palette. A carefully selected grouping of the top quartz color trends in the industry, an all-star quartz line-up if you will. “Superior hues and subtle color distinctions, creating

character, are vital components of innovative design,” Hanna added. “This rich and varied palette assures distinctive visual creations.”

Engineered for design challenges in high traffic areas, the tiles feature superior quartz combined with innovative technology which assures exceptional resistance to harsh elements, abrasion and shock. They’re non-porous, require no sealing and are designed to be virtually maintenance free.

Carefully formulated to maintain an incredibly stunning look, Accolade Quartz tiles invigorate and inspire the most brilliant flooring schemes. A dazzling proposal indeed.

dazzle HeR WitH QuaRtz

Over the last few years, designers, builders and architects have been preaching the benefits and strengths of quartz as a premium surface material and now most savvy homeowners across the country have caught up to this hot trend. Unique in combining depth and color consistency with low maintenance and unrivaled durability, quartz has emerged as the preferred countertop material in homes across the country.

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