2012 fall home improvement

fall HomeIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENTIMPROVEMENT

October 11, 2012

the cheshire herald, OctOber 11, 2012

Fall Home Improvement 2012

two

STIHLdealers.com

All prices are NES-SRP. Available at participating dealers while supplies last. © 2012 STIHL NES12-841-102961-7

CHAIN SAWS STARTING AT $17995 BLOWERS STARTING AT $14995 TRIMMERS STARTING AT $15995

#1BUILT IN AMERICA.

IN AMERICA.*

*A majority of STIHL products are built in the United States from domestic and foreign parts and components.“Number one selling brand” is based on syndicated Irwin Broh Research (commercial landscapers) as well as independent consumer research of 2009-2011 U.S.

sales and market share data for the gasoline-powered handheld outdoor power equipment category combined sales to consumers and commercial landscapers.

With purchase of select STIHL chain saws.

$39.99 NES-SRP. Offer good with purchase of models MS 170 to MS 460 through 12/31/12 at participating dealers while supplies last.

CARRYING CASE1/2 PRICE

JUST $1999

$38995

MS 290 STIHL FARM BOSS®

Our #1 selling chain saw model

Features adjustable automatic bar and chain oiler and side-access chain tensioner for ease of use

18" bar

Connecticut Power & Sport935 North Main St. Ext. | Wallingford203-265-1206 | CTPowerandSport.net

NES12-841-102961-7.indd 1 9/24/12 2:09 PM

203-272-2648

M - F 8 - 5CLOSED Sat. & Sun.

203-272-8917203-710-0294 (Cell)

Free EstimatesFully Insured

Cont# 538114

DEL’S VINYL SIDING & Home Improvements

24 years of experience

after years of funny financ-ing and few limitations

on loans, banks and other lenders have tightened up their lending policies. as a result, homeowners considering a home improvement project might need to look else-where to secure financing.

there are no certainties in the real estate markets. though sta-tistics suggest marked improve-ment in home sales over just a few months ago, many home-owners remain wary about selling their home to try to move up to something bigger and better.

the National association of home builders says many people are choosing to stay put in their homes and remodel or make ren-ovations to transform the house into something more comfort-able. While there are many worth-while home renovation projects, the Nahb recommends projects that bring your home up to par with the neighbors. it doesn't pay to transform your home into the most expensive on the street, un-less you plan to live there for the rest of your life. real estate ex-perts recommend that a remod-eling investment increases the value of your house by no more than 10 to 15 percent above the median sales price in your neigh-borhood.

When it comes time to finance a remodel or renovation, you may

not know where to start. credit restrictions on home mortgages that have troubled many would-be buyers have also plagued indi-viduals looking to finance home improvements. however, hom-eowners hoping to finance a proj-ect do have options, and not all of them require stellar credit ratings.

* Borrow against a retire-ment plan. Many retirement plans, such as a 401(k), allow plan members to take out a por-tion of the savings to put toward a home loan. this does not mean you are taking money out of the account permanently. rather, you are borrowing against yourself, with repayment necessary in a certain timeframe. because these loans often offer very low interest rates, and essentially the interest is being paid back to you, they might be a good option for men and women who cannot secure a traditional loan. however, if you have been laid off, there may be a shorter repayment period. also, the interest on these loans is not tax-deductible.

* Borrow against other in-vestments. cds, bonds, or mutu-al funds can provide the collateral you need and earn you a lower interest rate. Fixed-income in-vestments are more stable options to borrow against, as their value won't have a chance to decline.

* Apply for a home equity

loan. Many people have heard of a home equity loan, and it is usually the first choice when bor-rowing funds for renovations. essentially a home equity loan is taking out a second mortgage on your home to pay for the work you want to have done, which is based on the equity, or the dif-ference between the home's fair market value and the outstanding balance of all liens on the prop-erty. the interest on these loans is tax-deductible, which can make this financing option quite popu-lar.

* Secure a home equity line of credit. a home equity line of credit, or helOc, is another type of home equity loan. instead of receiving a lump sum to use to-ward renovations like you would with a traditional home equity loan, a helOc is sort of a credit card type scenario based on the equity in your home. You are giv-en a line of credit, against which you can buy items. this is good for intermittent needs, when one large sum is not needed. helOcs have a draw period, during which the borrower can use the credit, and a repayment period, during which it must be repaid. helOcs generally have lower mortgage fees at the start and are generally subject to the same tax incentives as regular home equity loans.

* Consider refinancing. inter-

est rates on mortgages are at his-toric lows. You may qualify to do a cash-out refinance, where you borrow against the value of your home and create an entirely new mortgage at the lower rate. al-though you will start your mort-gage all over from day 1 and have to pay closing fees, this type of refinancing can be more advanta-geous to homeowners with signif-icant equity in their homes.

* Apply for a government-sponsored loan. the govern-ment may offer programs aimed at helping individuals who are underwater on their home loans borrow money to make necessary improvements. While the funding cannot be used to purchase luxury items, such as a swimming pool, it can be used for necessities. residents of the United states

can explore FHA 203(k) refi-nance options and an Fha title 1 improvement loan.

* Discuss financing with your contractor. some contrac-tors may offer financing. Keep in mind that the interest rates may be high, and it may be difficult to investigate the security of these types of loans. Many homeown-ers also look to credit cards to help finance some home renova-tion projects, but they should be used as a last resort. credit cards typically come with high interest rates and, while they are good for some small projects, financing larger projects on a card may land you very deep in debt. homeown-ers who choose to stay in their homes and make renovations have a host of options at their dis-posal to finance those projects.

Options Exist For You To Finance That Big Improvement Project



three

Please call for corrections at 203-317-2308 - after 5 pm call 203-317-2282Ad#:1253760 Pub:RJ Date:07/31/12 Day:TUE Size:3X4 Cust:LYON & BILLARD Last Edited

By:JPROTO on 7/26/12 1:31 PM. Salesperson:319 Tag Line:SPADEA - TUES SPECIAL Color Info:FULL

1253760 - Composite

... is Connecticut’sLARGEST Independent

Supplier of RoofingMaterials. FREE DELIVERY

throughout the state.NO MINIMUM!

Service Unequaled!Most orders are delivered within 24 to 48 hours!

www.Lyon-Billard.com1290 Farmington Ave.

Berlin, CT860-829-1842

504 West Main St.Cheshire, CT

203-272-5351

38 Gypsy Ln.Meriden, CT203-235-4487

1253760

FREE BOOM SERVICE

Beautiful Homes Beautiful Homes Begin with Ceramic Tile... Begin with Ceramic Tile... Complete Service from Design to Installation

� C USTOM M ARBLE & G RANITE F ABRICATION � G LASS B LOCK & P AVERS C OMPLETE B ATHROOM R EMODELING B Y P ROFESSIONAL I NSTALLERS

V isit Our Large Showroom... V isit Our Large Showroom... 625 Wolcott St., WTBY 203 757-4100

Call for Hours CLOSED

SUN & MON

Granite Countertop Granite Countertop 4 Colors to choose

w/Beveled or Round Edge up to 1 ⁄ 2 inch Tax & Other Charges Apply Tax & Other Charges Apply

Sq. Ft.

of Waterbury Anthony J. Daddona, Owner

$ 49 $ 49 $ 49 $ 49

Skimcoating & PopcornRemoval

Walter OgrodnikLic. No. 0574850

Phone: [email protected]

“Making your walls & ceilings smooth”Mr. Smoothie

Men and women who have tried to sell a home are

likely familiar with the phrase "curb appeal." curb appeal is sim-ilar to getting ready for a big date, only you're not dressing yourself up to make a strong fi rst impres-sion. instead, improving curb ap-peal involves dressing your home up in the hopes it makes a strong fi rst impression on prospective buyers, many of whom will have a strong opinion about the prop-erty before they even get out of their cars to have a look around.

a home with strong curb ap-peal can entice buyers who are likely to believe that a home with a well-maintained exterior is like-ly to have an equally impressive interior. homeowners who want the process of selling their home to go smoothly can improve the property's curb appeal in a num-ber of ways, many of which don't necessitate a substantial home improvement budget.

* Clean up. the most effec-tive way to improve curb appeal is to clean up the property. Many homeowners are savvy enough to remove toys and other items from the yard before showing a home, but cleaning up goes beyond re-moving clutter from the property. Make sure all hedges are trimmed and remove weeds, sticks, and other debris from any fl ower beds. Lay mulch in the fl ower beds and garden, as mulch pre-vents weed growth while helping the soil retain moisture, result-ing in more attractive gardens to catch a buyer's eye.

* Get an "edge" on other sell-ers. edging is another easy and effective way to improve curb ap-peal. edge driveways, sidewalks, and other walkways around the property, removing or trimming anything that is hanging over

the driveway or walkways. if the boundary between your driveway and lawn is not distinct, consider installing edging materials such as stone or bricks. the edging can be level with the driveway or elevated, but keep in mind that elevated driveway edging can protect the lawn, preventing kids from riding their bicycles onto the lawn or cars from driving onto it. adding edging is not a very dif-fi cult do-it-yourself project.

* Take to the trees. Many homeowners grow accustomed to overgrown trees around their property and may not notice that low-hanging, unsightly branches are hiding the home from view. buyers want to see the house, so take to the trees and trim any branches that hang too low or ob-

scure your home. * clean the gutters. leaves

and sticks hanging from the gut-ters are a red fl ag to buyers, who tend to associate clogged gutters with roof damage. clean the gut-ters thoroughly before putting your home up for sale and keep them clean throughout the selling process. if your property includes lots of trees, install guards to keep twigs and leaves out of the gut-ters.

* Make the home accessible through the front door. Many homeowners enter their home through a side door or through their garage. if you fall into this category, keep in mind that pro-spective buyers will be enter-ing through the front door, so make this area accessible. clear

any clutter, such as overgrown hedges, away from the front door, and consider upgrading the door handle to a more modern feature. in addition, make sure the lock on the front door doesn't stick, forcing the realtor and buyers to immediately struggle before en-tering the home. You want buyers and their real estate agents to get in and out of the home as smooth-ly as possible.

* Make sure all plants, includ-ing fl owers, are living. dehy-drated or dead plants and fl owers are eyesores, and they will give

buyers the impression that you didn't pay much attention to your property. Make sure all plants are alive and thriving and replace those that aren't. You can replant new fl owers or plants or just use potted plants instead. When pur-chasing new plants, choose low-maintenance varieties that appeal to buyers who want good vibrant plants but might not want to put in much work into the garden. When selling a home, homeown-ers can employ a number of tac-tics to improve their home's curb appeal.

Follow Some Easy Steps To Ensure Your Home Has Curb Appeal

Add Appliances To Kitchen

homeowners remodeling their kitchen can look beyond traditional appliances and add specialty tools that may

save on space and upgrade room effi ciency.Not every kitchen is equipped with a trash compactor or

wine cooler, but many homeowners are seeing the benefi ts of rethinking what appliances are included in their kitchen lay-outs and looking beyond the range or dishwasher.

Trash Compactora trash compactor is a device that can be built into cabi-

netry or used as a stand-alone appliance wherever there is an available electrical outlet.

compactors have advantages over traditional garbage pails and bags in the kitchen. they can hold a week or two of garbage in compressed form, reducing the need to take

See SPRUCE, page 13

the cheshire herald, OctOber 11, 2012Four

Expert Custom Picture Framing101 North Plains industrial road

Wallingford CT 06492 • (203) 265-6643Open Mon-Fri 10-5:30, sat 10-3

Same Day Service Our Specialtywww.wallingfordframenart.com

WALLINGFORD

frame n’ art

Termite & Pest Elimination

203-272-2826

www.braman.biz

Prices starting at $399 s/f Installed

plus

Open Sunday10:00 - 3:00

#1 IN CUSTOMER SERVICEStore of FloorsCARPET • CERAMIC • WOOD • LAMINATE • VINYL

907 Meriden-Wtby Tpk. (Rt. 322)Plantsville, CT 06479

Across from McDonald’s

Super Sale!Super Sale!Featuring: Shaw, Mannington, Formica and Quick-Step

Hours: Mon. & Tues. 10-5; Wed. & Thurs. 10-7; Fri. & Sat. 10-3

Expert InstallationFrom Connecticut’s #1 Certified Laminate Installer

�H�o�n�e�s�t�D�e�p�e�n�d�a�b�l�e�S�e�r�v�i�c�eDon Petit’sOPEN EVENINGS

WED. & THURS.

Pre�nishedRed Oak3/4” x 2 1/4”

InstalledS/F

$5.95Starting

at

(860) 621-4295Volume & Contractor Discounts Available!

www.PetitsStoreofFloors.com

Min. 300 sq. ft.

A+Rating

HEATING & COOLING CONTRACTORS

RESIDENTIAL & LIGHT COMMERCIAL

Replacements

Installations

Remodels

Add-ons

Service

CALL TODAY203-272-66761187 Highland Ave Cheshire, CTwww.calleastcoast.com

*Financing options available (for those who qualify)

12 months 0% with min payments.

Major Credit Cards Accepted

CT Lic. #S-1 303257 #SM-1 0005738

Oil

Gas

Electric

Radiant

Geo Thermal

FREE ESTIMATES

REASONABLE RATES

PROFESSIONAL TREE REMOVALBrush Chipping • Stump Grinding • Skilled Climbers

EMERGENCY SERVICE

203-272-1396BRUCE ABATE, OWNER

FULLYINSURED

LICENSE#583726

did you know that being green saves money, espe-

cially around the house? hom-eowners annually lose hundreds of dollars to ineffi cient appliances and a drafty home. Making sim-ple changes can benefi t the planet and your bottom line.

appliances in your home as well as certain behaviors can have a considerable impact on how much energy is consumed. the energy information admin-istration reports that the average home uses approximately 1,000 kilowatt hours (kwh) each month. Kwh is measured by multiply-ing the number of 1,000 watts of electricity used by the number of hours the device is in use. every appliance has a different measure of electricity usage.

here are some examples of common appliances in the home and how much energy they con-sume in one hour, courtesy of bright hub:

Electric clothes dryer: 6,000 watts

Washing machine: 425 watts Refrigerator: 188 watts Dishwasher: 200 watts

Central AC: 6,000 watts Window AC: 1,300 watts Flat screen TV: 150 watts LCD TV: 213 watts Vacuum: 1,100 watts Freezer: 273 watts Water heater: 473 watts Toaster oven: 1,200 watts Coffeemaker: 1,200 watts Desktop computer: 95 watts DVD player: 25 watts Cable box: 20 watts Laptop: 50 watts Selecting energy-effi cient ap-

pliances and using them in a conservative manner can reduce energy usage and the cost of your monthly utility bill. try to run high-wattage appliances dur-ing the evening or early-morning hours when energy rates may be reduced. also, if the weather will be warm, running these ap-pliances during cooler hours pre-vents the home from heating up even more -- possibly requiring the additional use of an air con-ditioner. Unplug appliances when they're not in use to avoid vam-pire drain. Many appliances still draw a small amount of power even when turned off. also, be

sure to properly insulate and po-sition appliances so they can run at the highest level of effi ciency.

Energy audit You can request or hire individ-

uals to conduct an energy audit or home energy assessment.

according to the U.s. depart-ment of energy, the audit will as-sess how much energy your home consumes and evaluate what measures you can take to make your home more energy effi cient. if you prefer to do an energy au-dit yourself, you can look at a few key areas around the home where there may be air leaks or ineffi -cient uses of energy.

First, turn off any combustible appliances, such as water heat-ers and furnaces. Make sure the windows are closed, then turn on exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen to suck the air out of the rooms. Feel around outlets, doors, windows, baseboards, fi replaces, and attic hatches for any apparent leaks.

Use a stick of incense to easily see the fl ow of air in the incense smoke. if any leaks are found, address each one. this generally involves recaulking or sealing around points of entry. the dOe says the potential energy savings from reducing drafts in a home may range from fi ve percent to 30 percent per year.

Additional steps there are other steps you can

take to make a home more ef-fi cient. * Install solar panels to draw power from the sun.

* Plant deciduous trees or bushes on the south- and west-facing areas of the home. the leaves will shade the home during the summer months and fall off to allow sunshine in during the win-ter months.

* Plant bushes by the front door to act as a wind buffer.

* Use skylights to add light and warmth from the sun to the home.

* think about using motion-activated lights in the home.

*install a new programmable thermostat.

* check the insulation in attics and basements and install new, if the insulation you currently have is no longer effi cient. Save en-ergy and money by making easy adjustments and improvements around your house.

Going Green Good For The Environment And Your Pocketbook

if you live in New York's Nas-sau county, you are possibly

paying some of the highest prop-erty taxes in the country. Nassau county residents had an average property tax bill of nearly $8,500 in 2011.

Understanding property taxes is not very cut and dry. they are supposed to rise and fall with home values, but this isn't al-ways the case. there are roughly 80,000 pages of federal code on property taxes, and each state and town often has its own rules governing how property taxes are assessed. state and local budget cuts can raise taxes even if your home value remains the same, as will an increase of benefi ts for public employees. Property tax is typically the primary means that many jurisdictions use to raise revenue. so if your community needs money, you can probably count on it fi nancing that need through higher property taxes.

the two things that determine

Complete A Project, Raise Your Property Value & Tax

10¢SAVE pergallon

Fill Your Oil Tank when you upgrade your oil, propane or

natural gas heating system. Free system evaluation and special financing available.

Larger discounts for higher volumes. Must request fill-up, minimum 150 gallons required, with coupon only. Restrictions apply. Not valid with any other offers. Please call for details. Expires 10/31/12.

Restrictions apply. May not be combined with other offers. Call for details.Expires 10/31/12.Restrictions may apply. Please call for details. Expires 10/31/12.

$500 REBATE

860-793-1239 b Plainvilleoil.com 860-677-7347 s MyHomeOil.com

Tower Energy:• Convert to propane or natural gas and save!• Converting to propane will save

on heating your home and hot water, ask us how!

• Rebates available – act now for preseason discounts!

Follow us on and

Oil or Gas?No matter what fuel you use, you can count on both Tower Energy and Plainville Oil

– our Connecticut neighbors trust us for value-added full service.

MyHomeOil.com

A Tower Energy Company

Together We Provide Value, Service and Reliability

Plainville Oil:• Call now for your

heating tune-up!• Clean, green Bioheat® • Money-saving budget

& price protection plans

Both Companies:• Guaranteed delivery• 24/7 emergency and same day delivery available• Oil, propane and gas service plans• Order online, anytime, day or night• All major credit cards accepted

for 1 year with a propane supply or automatic oil delivery agreement.

HOD: 0000605 CT Lic. #: S-0395747•HOD: 0000090 • CT Lic. #: 0395747

No Propane Tank Rental Fees

NEW: Senior Citizens’ and Veterans’ Discounts!

CH10D1012P CHREB1012P CHPT1012P

See ADDING, page 15


the cheshire herald, OctOber 11, 2012 Five

FREE estimates on garage doors

OVERHEAD DOOR COMPANY OF WATERBURY56 New Wood Road • Watertown, CT • Open: Mon-Fri 8-5, Sat. 8-12

203-758-3667 • Toll Free 877-702-3667 • www.overheaddoorwaterbury.com

The Genuine. The Original.

SalesService

Installation

We service all makes

and models

Check out our website

for more information

$25off ELECTRIC OPENER

Overhead Door Company of Waterbury

With this coupon. One offer per customer. Cannot be combined with other offers. Offer exires 10-31-12.

$75off DOUBLEDOOR

Overhead Door Company of Waterbury

With this coupon. One offer per customer. Cannot be combined with other offers. Offer exires 10-31-12.

$50off SINGLEDOOR

OR

A full service lawn maintenance company

Call Gary [email protected]

CT Bus. Reg. B-1101DEP- S-3234

HIC- 0620267

Serving Cheshire and Surrounding Areas

PERSONAL TOUCH LAWN CARE

“We Take Pride and It Shows”

• MOWING • CLEAN-UPS

• FERTILIZING• LANDSCAPING

• SNOW REMOVAL

Now Accepting New Accounts

there comes a time in many homeowners' lives when

they're faced with the reality that a roof replacement is necessary. a roof can last between 15 and 30 years, and a person who owns an older home may fi nd the lease has expired on the current roof. is there a particular time of year that is better for having a roof in-stalled?

it depends on different fac-tors, including the availability of a roofi ng contractor. According to the site, the average cost of things, courtesy of the home buying institute, across the country one can expect to spend $18,000 on average to replace a roof with asphalt shingles. Use of other materials, like tile or metal will cost more than this. in gen-eral, those living in big cities tend to pay more than those in rural ar-eas. because a roof replacement is expensive, it is something that some homeowners prefer to put off until it is absolutely neces-

sary. Others are interested in fi nd-ing the best rate around and hir-ing reliable roofers for the job. it's important to note that there really is no season where roof replace-ments are off-limits.

Most roofers can do the job effectively unless the tempera-ture is below freezing or if there is signifi cant rain in the forecast. In fact, planning a roofi ng job for the middle of the winter actually may work to a homeowner's ad-vantage. this is typically a slow time of year for some roofers, and they may be anxious to get work this time of year and be willing to negotiate on price. there's also a good chance that the roofer will not be bogged down with other jobs, enabling the company to start on a home right away. some roofers prefer working in the colder weather to sizzling up on a roof under the hot sun at another time of year. Naturally the spring is a prime time of year for roofi ng projects. after the rainy season,

the weather is generally comfort-able and homeowners are think-ing about the projects they will commence.

a busy time of year for home improvement all around, hom-eowners may fi nd that they have to compete with others for a good date to have a roof installed. they also may be paying top dollar for the work and materials that are in high demand. another thing to consider during the busy season is that a project may be rushed along in order to move on to the

next job or one being worked on concurrently. this may lead to corners being cut or less attention to detail. a person may be limited in their choices of roof installa-tion during the summer. extreme temperatures can make working on the roof hazardous and uncom-fortable for workers.

For those who live in a climate where the temperatures generally cause the mercury to soar, choose a cooler time of year. Many ho-meowners opt to have a roof re-placement in the autumn. the crisp weather and the decline in home-renovation projects over-all can make this a prime time to contract with a quality roofer. if the roof is very much damaged, replacing it before the harsh, win-ter weather sets in can be advan-tageous.

Some homeowners fi nd they can get a discount on a roof in-stallation if they bundle different renovations together. a contractor may offer a special on siding and roofi ng together. For those who have the funds, this may be the opportunity to get two jobs done at once.

A roofi ng project is no small undertaking, and homeowners are wise to get several referrals and investigate a variety of compa-nies before settling on one.

review sites, such as angie's list, or simply word-of-mouth appraisals from friends and fami-ly members can help make choos-ing a roofer an easier decision.

Choosing Right Time For Your Roof Repair Is A Key Decision

though ceiling fans are most associated with warm-weather seasons, most can be effective throughout the winter months as well, helping circulate warm air throughout a room in much the same way they circulate cool air during the warmer weather. Most of today's fans have a switch near the motor housing that alters the direction in which the fan's blades turn.

Did You Know...

[email protected]

500 So. Meriden Rd.Cheshire

(203) 272-8243

OPEN DAILY 9-5

929156

rrs TM

Open Daily 9-5

ofCheshire CT LLC

500 So. Meriden Rd.Cheshire

(203) 272-8243

OPEN DAILY 9-5

929156

rrs TM

Apples • Apple Cider • Bishop Farm Express • Ice CreamBirthday Parties

• PUMPKINS• CORNSTALKS• GOURDS• HAY BALES

Our Own FamousAPPLE CIDER DONUTS

Fresh Baked

PIES

BEAUTIFUL HARDY 8”

MUMS

Everything for FallDecorating Needs

PUMPKINS

PUMPKINS




six

www.nvsl.com 1-800-251-2161

C E L E B R AT IN G N IN E T Y Y E A R S A S Your Community Bank

We’ve been helping homeowners with their castles since 1922.You want to live here in the Valley. We want you to, too. So we make it quick and simple for you to get a sensible mortgage – or loan for home improvements. It’s our civic duty as your community bank. Helping you to turn a house into a home is one of the many reasons we’re a good neighbor to have.

Because You Have Pride of Ownership.

90 YEARS AS YOUR NEIGHBOR

NMLS # 230907

Subject to credit approval.

Tankless Hot Water860-582-8512

Deal EndsSoon!

Installed$1799*

*Average house-afterRebate and Tax

Credit if Qualifi ed.

Better Heat and Light80 South Street • Bristol, CT 06010

1-800-317-2906 • 860-582-8512www.betterheatandlight.com

All Outdoor Power EquipmentPumps · Generators · Compressors

Gasoline & DieselChain & Blade Sharpening

KRM Equipment Services, LLC

Fully InsuredPICK-UP AND

DELIVERY AVAILABLE

Brett Hobson, Owner (203) 651-9357

Many people fi nd that space around a home

is a precious commodity after years spent accumulating differ-ent things. the basement, attic, and garage are commonly used to store items that won't fi t any-where else. though spring clean-ing is a great way to cut down on clutter, a storage shed makes a great place to put those items you can't bear to discard. sheds come in many shapes and sizes. ready-made sheds can be erected

on your property immediately, and some retailers will do so for an additional fee. the cost of a shed can vary greatly, from sim-ple plastic sheds that cost roughly $100 to more customized sheds that cost $1,000 or more.

after looking at many storage sheds from builders or prefabri-cated models, you may want to build one yourself. this way you can be sure it is customized to fi t your yard, and is the right color and style, and made of secure

and durable materials. While an adventurous project, shed build-ing is typically within the skill set of the average homeowner. also, a shed can be built in a weekend or two, depending on how much time you can devote to the proj-ect. here's how to get started.

* consult with your town, city, province, or municipality to fi nd out the zoning laws regarding sheds. You may need a building permit if the shed will feature a permanent foundation or is larger than a certain size. storage sheds greater than 120 square feet gen-erally require a permit. there also may be rules regarding how far away the shed must be from the property line or even the height of the structure. it pays to know this information in advance so you don't run into legal trouble after

the project has begun. * Find a style of shed that you

would like to emulate. drive around to different shed retail-ers or big box home improve-ment stores and peruse the stock. choose the features you like and mark them down. take photos of the ones you really like.

* research available plans. You can purchase shed plans or have an architect draw them up, but that may be costly. there are also free shed plans online, some of which provide a list of necessary supplies.

* Order your supplies and orga-nize everything. a building mate-rials center or a home improve-ment store may deliver all of your materials right to your home, sav-ing you the hassle of going back and forth to get things piece by

piece. Once they are delivered, sort through everything and mark whether the material is for the fl oor, walls or roof. If the shed will not be rooted to the ground but kept on skids or blocks, you will likely want to have some sort of base material, like rocks or gravel underneath to deter ani-mals from making a home under the shed.

* enlist the help of a friend and get building. Once you get into a groove, you may fi nd that the shed building comes easy to you. but the work will go more quick-ly if you have a friend available to help you hold materials in place while you secure them. building a shed can be a rewarding do-it-yourself project that saves you money and frees up space in your home.

A Sure-Fire Way To Cut Down On Clutter Is To Build A Shed

building codes are enforc-ing 'energy effi ciency' in

many parts of the world. a legally enforced building code specifi es the community's acceptable level of safety, function, and comfort -- and some jurisdictions have mandated a requirement of 35 to 40 percent improvement. Many states are also steadily improv-ing their 'sustainable practises' with advancements in insulation,

air infi ltration, and window day-lighting. Of equal value, the con-struction industry is now producing materials and methods that are even more effi cient than mandated.

so if you're building or reno-vating, be sure to follow the

guidelines in your munici-pal building

code. a savvy h o m e o w n e r

today knows that eco-responsibil-

ity pays divi-dends, some of

them pretty quickly and others cumulatively, year after year.

"replacing wood, for example, has so many spin off benefi ts," says todd blyth at Nudura, the manufacturers of an advanced version of the insulated con-crete form (icF). "by building a house with concrete instead of wood framing you could imme-diately benefi t by lower energy bills. You'd get to live in a stron-ger, more comfortable home, build equity for resale value, and throughout your lifetime, make a signifi cant contribution to the good health of the planet."

the Nudura system is highly rated due to its ability to deliver both energy effi ciency and oc-cupant comfort. this system for building concrete walls is in high demand across the United states and canada.

"builders receive workplace benefi ts too," Blyth continued. "built like lego, the pre-assem-bled, interlocking blocks assure adherence to building code re-quirements; the icFs require less shipping space and manpower than other methods; and the con-struction time is much faster than building with wood. busy build-ers and eager homeowners benefi t equally from this effi ciency."

the forms are designed with monolithic concrete sandwiched between two continuous layers of expanded polystyrene (ePs) foam.

"the foam material isolates the concrete and signifi cantly reduces the fl ow of heat through the wall,"

Think About Concrete Instead Of Wood For Frame

See CONCRETE, page 14

the cheshire herald, OctOber 11, 2012 seven

600 Industrial Ave.Cheshire

203-272-9991cheshirestoneandsupply.com

You supply the imagination... We supply the materials

Same Day DeliveryNo Quantity Minimum

Formerly Cheshire Stoneworks

CHESHIREST NE & SUPPLYST NE ST NE

Open7 daysa Week

Earth Materials, Decorative Stone,Cambridge Pavers/Wallstone

and more...

October Specials!20%OFFCambridge

outdoor fi re pits& fi replace kits.

FREE local*Deliverywith purchase of

4 yds. or more of topsoilor mulch. *(Cheshire)

“Driveways Built To Last”Residential & Commercial4th GenerationQual ity Pavers

Nick Williams Owner

203-238-1708

SPECIALIZING IN DRAINAGEMidstate

Paving

Free EstimatesFully Insured

CT License 575852

Asphalt Driveways Stone Parking Lots Curbing 400o Hot Crack Filler Repair & Patch

Call for Fall Specials!

(203) 272-6964• All forms of Roofi ng & Siding

• Gutters & Leaf Protection System• Chimney Flashing & Water Sealing

• Windows & Doors• Metal Wrapping / New Fascia &

Rake Boards installed• Skylight Installation •Ridge Vent •Decks

Senior Citizen Discount/Military Members Discount

www.cheshireroofi ngllc.comOwned by Lifetime Cheshire Family

License # 578335

Forget About Inside And Focus On The Outside Of Your HomeFeel like cheating? Forget

what the inside of your home looks like for just a bit and focus on your home's exterior.

"the exterior of your home makes a lasting and daily impres-sion on your friends and fam-ily, along with your neighbors," says Mark clement, professional contractor and host of MyFixi-tUplife home improvement ra-dio show. "While the weather is good, my advice is to get outside and fi x up problem areas, work on the landscaping and invest in products that make your home's exterior not only look great, but work great."

clement, who is in the middle of an ongoing renovation of his 100-year-old home in Pennsylva-nia, recommends assessing your needs and then diving in on proj-ects. "On the exterior of the home there are three big, critical areas i recommend people evaluate ev-ery year -- the roof, the windows and the entry door. those are key areas because, along with being visual focal points of the home, they help protect a house from se-vere weather.

and, if you have problems with older windows, doors or roofi ng tiles, you're looking at higher en-ergy bills and growing problems that can affect your wallet long-term."

clement offers these recom-mendations for keeping your home exterior in top shape:

Roofi ng Tips:1. check your roof yearly (from

a ladder or from a neighbor's home with binoculars) to deter-mine the condition of your roof. look for problem areas, such as missing or broken shingles, along with roofi ng tiles that may be "fl apping" in the wind. These are all indications that a new roof may be in your future.

2. don't forget to check the sides of your roof. the southern exposure weathers signifi cantly faster than the other sides of the roof, so make sure to carefully examine this one. also, shallower pitches weather faster than steep-

er pitches. so again, if your roof has a shallow pitch -- like a shed dormer -- make certain you can clearly see it to get a true indica-tion of the condition of your roof.

3. if you're in the market for a new roof, investigate polymer roofi ng tiles as a good option. these impact-resistant slate and shake tiles are man-made in a wide variety of colors. some tiles, like those from daVinci roofscapes(r) that clement chose for his home, have a 50-year limited warranty and are ideal for all types of weather con-ditions, including hurricanes and hail.

4. since the installation of a new roof exceeds the capabilities of most homeowners, make sure to research and hire a professional roofer. check to make sure your roofer is insured, licensed and certifi ed. Ask for a written job es-timate and references along with warranty information for both the roof you select and his installa-tion services.

Entry Door Tips:1. if you can see light around

your main entry door from the in-side, the door is hard to close or lock, or the door itself is warped, it's time to consider a new door.

2. even if you can't see light,

air may be moving through gaps in the weather stripping at a sur-prising rate. On a very cold or hot day, hold the back of your hand an inch or so away from the bot-tom and perimeter of your door. if you can feel air moving or a sig-nifi cant cold spot, that's a signal your existing door could benefi t from better sealing.

3. determine what role you would like an entry door to play on your home's exterior. do you want it to be a focal point with a splash of color? is it important that you have decorative glass in the door system? Will you need vented sidelites to allow more light and air into your home? search the web for "door design-er" and "My saved door" online tools to help visualize how a new door will look on your home.

4. think about the weather con-ditions your home's door faces along with your energy bills. if either run to the extreme, consid-

er replacing your entryway with a high-performance fi berglass door (which has four times more insu-lation than wood doors). You can also request features such as the tru-defense door system from therma-tru doors that features enhanced weatherstripping, cor-ner seal pad, door bottom sweep and profi led sill that all work to-gether to provide strength and stability in your entry door.

Window Tips:1. evaluate the functionality

and decorative appeal of your cur-rent windows. if you have con-densation between glass panes, the windows are hard to open or close, your energy bills are soar-ing or if there are drafts coming in around the window units, then it's time to seriously consider re-placement windows.

2. Vinyl framed windows are the category of windows with the highest growth rate in the country.

OAK LAWN LANDSCAPINGSpring & Fall Clean-Ups•Mowing & Trimming

Curbside Leaf RemovalProperty Caretaking•Home Improvements

FREE ESTIMATESLic. # 0626792 Fully Insured

203-619-3572 203-525-4086

See CONCENTRATE, page 15




eight

Make Your Next Indoor Painting Project As Painless As Possible

Hot Water WashingDryer Vent Cleaning•Roof Cleaning•Condominiums

Vinyl Fences•Deck Washing & Staining•Sidewalk Gum RemovalConcrete•Gutter Cleaning•Concrete Pool Cleaning

�F�a�l�l� �L�e�a�f� �C�l�e�a�n�u�p �L�e�a�f� �V�a�c� �S�e�r�v�i�c�e�

�F�u�l�l� �S�e�r�v�i�c�e� �o�r� �C�u�r�b�s�i�d�e� �L�e�a�f� �P�i�c�k�u�p �S�n�o�w� �P�l�o�w�i�n�g� � �S�n�o�w� �B�l�o�w�i�n�g

�R�o�t�o�t�i�l�l�i�n�g� �/� �O�v�e�r�s�e�e�d�i�n�g�

�W�e�e�k�l�y� �L�a�w�n� �&� �G�a�r�d�e�n� �M�a�i�n�t�e�n�a�n�c�e �S�h�r�u�b� �P�r�u�n�i�n�g� �&� �P�l�a�n�t�i�n�g

�N�i�c�k� �C�o�n�s�t�a�n�t�i�n�o �L�a�n�d�s�c�a�p�e� �S�e�r�v�i�c�e�s

�R�e�s �i�d�e�n �t �i�a �l � �& � �C�o�m�m�e�r�c �i�a �l

�Q�u�a�l�i�t�y� �S�e�r�v�i�c�e� �i�n� �C�h�e�s�h�i�r�e� �s�i�n�c�e

�1�9�8�7�

�R�e�a�s�o�n�a�b�l�e� �R�a�t�e�s� � � � � � � � �P�r�o�m�p�t� �R�e�l�i�a�b�l�e� �S�e�r�v�i�c�e

�S�a�t�i�s�f�a�c�t�i�o�n� �G�u�a�r�a�n�t�e�e�d�!�!

�O�w�n�e�r� �O�p�e�r�a�t�e�d� �F�u�l�l�y� �I�n�s�u�r�e�d

�(�2�0�3�)� �6�5�1�-�9�2�6�7

�w�w�w�.�n�c�l�a�n�d�s�c�a�p�e�.�n�e�t �E-�m�a�i�l�:� �n�.�c�.�l�a�n�d�s�c�a�p�e�@�c�o�x�.�n�e�t

Few home improvement projects can be as fun, sat-

isfying and inexpensive as paint-ing. the excitement of choosing a new color scheme and then watching your home transform makes painting a project the whole family can enjoy.

by following a few simple tricks and tips you'll be painting like a professional before you know it. bercom, the painting ex-perts behind revolutionary paint products like handy Paint trays and liners, offers an insider's perspective on how to make your next painting project as quick and pain-free as it is enjoyable.

* Plan ahead. Planning is the fi rst step to a successful paint job. before you start painting, stop by your local hardware or paint store, like lowe's or anywhere paints are sold, and pick up all your supplies including paint, paintbrushes, rollers, trays, pails, tape and drop cloths. look for new products on the market to-day that are long-overdue updates to traditional painting supplies. these next-generation supplies make painting a lot easier, and the time and materials they save you make them a worthwhile invest-ment.

to save even more time, take measurements beforehand and determine exactly how much paint you need to get the job done.

if you do this, you will not run out of supplies and end up having to make a trip back to the paint store in the middle of your project.

* Use the magic formula. the condition of the wall will play a role in how much paint is re-quired to complete your paint job. smooth, even surfaces generally require less paint than rougher surfaces. Make note of the wall surfaces when taking measure-ments. an easy formula for de-termining how much paint you need to purchase is: (wall height X wall width) number of walls X 300 = gallons of paint

One gallon of paint covers about 350 square feet, so dividing by 300 will leave you the perfect amount of paint for touch-ups.

* Let the paint do the work for you. For the best results, do not skimp on the paint. applying a thicker coat versus one that is stretched thin will save time and help you achieve professional-looking results on the fi rst try. the handy Paint tray is conve-nient because it holds up to a gal-lon of paint, more than any paint tray on the market, so that you can keep working without having to frequently stop and re-fi ll the tray.

* Prevent a mess by expect-ing one. Painting might be a fun home improvement job, but even the veteran painter expects a little

bit of a mess. Painters can reduce the stress of a mess by protect-ing fl oors with old bed sheets or canvas, and covering woodwork, glass and metal surfaces with painter's tape.

Oftentimes, inexpensive plas-tic drop cloths seem like an ef-fective way to protect your fl oor and furniture because you can simply throw them away when you are fi nished. However, cloth drop cloths tend to be easier to work with because they are more durable than plastic, are rip and puncture resistant, lay fl at as you walk across them, and you can easily fold cloth around wall an-gles and doors without having to tape them to the ground.

* Paint in the right order. Painting your room from top to bottom will help prevent annoy-ing drips and splatters. For the best results, start by painting your ceilings, then move on to walls. after your walls, paint the wood-work. Save the fl oor for the very last.

* Keep rolling along. always begin painting an interior surface by "cutting in" -- paint a two-inch wide strip along the edges with a paintbrush. When using a paint-brush, new-age paint containers, like the handy Paint Pail, are ideal tools. look for containers that have magnetic brush holders and adjustable straps that prevent

fatigue in your hand or can be strapped to your belt.

after you have cut-in, use a roller to fi ll in your brushed-on outline. While using a roller might seem simple, a few tricks can make it even easier and less messy. slowly dip the roller into your paint tray, and then roll it back and forth until it is com-pletely and evenly coated with paint. then, run your roller across a washboard to remove excess paint. Painters love the handy Paint tray's built-in, sturdy wash-

board because it has deep ridges that remove excess and evenly distribute paint to rollers, prevent-ing drips and splatters as a result. and, the next-generation trays come equipped with a magnetic brush holder that prevents paint-brushes from falling into the tray, which allows you to keep a brush and roller nearby at all times.

* Make clean up quick and easy. like most projects, clean up is often the worst part of painting. choose a paint tray with dispos-

See CLEANUP, page 15



Nine

“This is the highest level awarded.Only 2% in the U.S. attain this status”

100% Financing Available. Ask About Our 50 Year Guarantee.

CALL (860) 621-6898vnanfito.com Lic #570192

FREEESTIMATES

Robert CasnerLicense #123428

George CasnerLicense #103088

112255 CCOOMMMMEERRCCEE CCOOUURRTT,, SSUUIITTEE 1100CCHHEESSHHIIRREE,, CCTT 0066441100FFAAXX 220033--227711--33889944

• COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL, RESIDENTIAL

• SERVICE CHANGES

• RECESSED LIGHTING

• ELECTRIC HEAT

• COMPUTER WIRING

• FACTORY ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE

• GENERATOR INSTALLATION

• GENERAC CERTIFIED ELECTRICIANS

• BUCKET TRUCK SERVICE

• THERMAL IMAGING SERVICES

• FLAT SCREEN TV INSTALLATION

CHESHIRE’S COMPLETE ELECTRICAL SERVICE COMPANY. FAST, EFFICIENT SERVICE IS OUR GOAL.

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FOR 30 YEARS.

Follow These Tips Before Starting That Basement RemodelPerhaps thanks to the grow-

ing popularity of home theaters, basement remodels are becoming more and more popular among the nation's homeowners. With advancements in television and home theater technology, it's no wonder homeowners are looking to make the most of their oft-ignored basements to enhance their home entertainment experi-ence.

but remodeling a basement in-volves more than simply throw-ing out the pingpong or pool table and replacing them with leather sofas and a big screen television. before doing anything with the basement, it's best to prepare the area to ensure the home theater experience is as enjoyable as pos-sible.

* Check for moisture. Nearly every basement has issues with moisture. Perhaps victims of fl oods or heavy rains, basements do not typically boast ideal living conditions, requiring work before homeowners and their families and friends can spend time in them knowing they're safe.

Many times, fi xing moisture inside a basement involves going outside the home, particularly to inspect gutters and the external surface area around the basement. Gutters and downspouts could be channeling water in the direc-tion of the basement. if so, direct downspouts away from the home.

surface area around the base-

ment could also be directing water toward the home. if that's the case, it might be a safe bet to consult a landscaper to deter-mine if that area can be dug up and possibly made to slant away from the house. While this might seem time-consuming, it's worth it to ensure a home theater does not become a musty place where no one wants to spend signfi cant time.

* Decide what to do with the ceilings. For those who really want to create a theater experi-ence in their basement, the ceil-ings will likely need some work. Many basements have ceiling tiles, which create an ambience more suited to a basement than a theater. homeowners should consider replacing ceiling tiles with drywall. it's good to work on the ceiling before doing anything with the fl oors, as paint or debris from the drywall will likely drip or fall onto the fl oor, creating a mess that no one wants on his or her new fl oor.

* Examine the walls. after working on the ceilings, the walls should be next on the list. home theaters tend to have dark walls like those in movie theaters, so if the walls are white, homeowners might want to paint them with a darker color. again, this should be done before doing anything with the fl oor to avoid stains or debris on any new fl ooring.

if the walls need new drywall,

it's a good idea to plan a layout of the room once it's a fi nished product before hanging any new drywall. this will give a sense of which walls will need holes for cables and other cords, and holes can be cut in the dry wall accord-ingly once that layout has been determined.

* Fix the fl oors. Oftentimes, basements are not carpeted, typi-cally covered with a throw rug here or there and some linoleum tiles. however, for those hoping

to get a genuine theater experi-ence in their basement, it's best to lay down some carpeting. Much like the walls, carpets should be a darker color to create an ambi-ence more like that of a movie theater. if putting a refrigerator or bar area in the basement, avoid laying carpet down in that area as spills might stain the new carpet.

Of course, before laying down any carpeting, homeowners must clear the room of everything that's removable. this should give ho-

meowners the chance to remove any clutter from the basement and decide what to keep or clear out of the basement.

* Before buying any prod-ucts, determine if they will fi t. Chances are large products can fi t through the doorways and into the basement. since many homeown-ers have pool tables and refriger-ators in their basements already, it's highly likely that other big ticket items like large screen tele-visions and leather sofas will be able to fi t through the doorways.

however, for homeowners who have used their basement largely for storage, it's best to do some measurement before visiting the nearby electronics store and buy-ing that big screen television. af-ter all, there's no guarantee that 70-inch projection screen televi-sion or those leather armchairs can fi t through the basement doorway.

though homeowners will eventually fi nd something they like that will fi t, the doorway measurements might dictate that decision more than homeowners know.

Moisture buildup can increase the probability of mold growth. For homeowners, mold growth can lead to poor

indoor air quality and worse.Using a modern insulation material, such as spray foam insula-

tion, in crawl spaces helps reduce airborne irritants and promotes

Confront That Mold Problem

See THE, page 15

the cheshire herald, OctOber 11, 2012ten

McMellon Woodcraft, Inc.DBA McMellon Associates, L.L.C.

510 Cornwall Avenue, Cheshire, CT 06410

203-272-5859License 0674304

We create custom made Kitchens, Baths, & Interiors for any room or business. Cabinet Refacing also.

www.mcmellonwoodcraft.com

ART MCMELLONMaster Craftsman

We Carry & Deliver Wood Pellets

Ad#:1066304 Pub:RJ Date:07/16/08 Day:WED Size:2X9.75 Cust:SUPERIOR STONE Last Edited By:BTRACY on 7/10/08 11:38 AM. Salesperson:116 Tag Line:SERVICE GUIDE Color

Info: 1066304 - Composite

1066304

STAY HOME THIS SUMMER WITH YOUR FAMILY!SUPERIOR STONE can help you reconnect with your family this summer witha beautiful new patio, outdoor kitchen area, tranquil sitting areas, pool deckingand more.

For the price of a typical vacation, you can create your own vacation spot andhave many years of enjoyment in your own back yard for the same price.

VISIT TODAY OURNEW SHOWROOM• Interlocking Pavers• Flagstones• Retaining Walls• Masonry Supplies• Screened Topsoil• 7 Varieties of Mulch

WE’LL BRINGSAMPLES TO YOU• Financing• Quality

Certified Installers• Convenient

Delivery

(203) 287-0839 3876 Whitney Ave., Hamden

(Across from SleepingGiant Golf Course)

Visit www.superiorstonesupply.comSUPERIOR

tone & Landscape upply

BOLDUC

FireplaceJust seconds away from your keyboard

Visitwww.superiorstonegroupllc.com

LET US SAVEYOU MONEY ONENERGY COSTS

$600 OFF ANY REGENCY OR HAMPTON

WOOD STOVE WITHINSTALLATION.

MUST PURCHASE BY 10-31-2012

SUPERIOR STONE AND FIREPLACECome see our new amazing showroom

Featuring Wood, Gas, and Pellet Stoves & Fireplaces

Superior Stone and Fireplace, LLC

follow us on

(203) 287-08393876 Whitney Ave., Hamden(Across from Sleeping Giant Golf Course)

HPBA Member NFI Certifi ed #161192203-269-9495

571 CHURCH ST., RT 68 • YALESVILLE, CT 06492HOURS: MON.-FRI. 9-5; SAT. 9-1

YALESVILLELAWN & GARDEN CENTER

FALL SAVINGS

All Units Fully Assembled, Running & Adjusted

Leaf Blowers by Stihl, Billy Goat, Fradan, & Echo

Toro & AriensSnow Blowers

Stihl Chainsaws

renovating bathrooms is commonly at the top of

home improvement to-do lists. though some rooms around the house may remain timeless, bath-rooms, like kitchens, show their age (and era) much more easily, which could be why homeowners are always on the lookout for new ideas.

although many people may dream about creating a spa-type oasis in their homes, not every-one is lucky enough to have a large bathroom, much less a large budget for a full-scale renovation. small bathrooms are common, particularly in older homes, but they needn't force homeowners to compromise on style when reno-vating.

small bathrooms may be a

Your Small Bathroom Doesn’t Have To Skimp On Amenitieshalf-bath on a main home level or even a full bath, depending on the home. by thinking creatively, homeowners can maximize their spaces and redo bathrooms in ways that bring out their best as-sets.

* When space is at a premium, it's best to look for fi xtures and items that fi t with the scale of the bathroom. although you may want a large vanity and cabinet in which to hide all of your toilet-ries, this simply may not be prac-tical -- taking up most of the bath-room real estate. instead, look for elegant pedestal sinks that have a much smaller profi le. They'll also help you control the clutter in the bathroom because there won't be anywhere to hide it.

* Use optical illusions to make

the bathroom appear more roomy. For example, lay tile diagonally to create the impression of space. A large mirror will refl ect the room back and make it appear much larger than it really is.

* select lighter hues in paint colors and accessories. dark paints and fi xtures could make the room feel cramped. dark col-ors are generally used to make spaces feel more cozy. in a small bathroom, it may make the space feel claustrophobic. instead, think light and bright and the room will instantly feel more airy.

* Minimize wall hangings and keep fi xtures smaller. Filling the walls with knickknacks may con-tribute to clutter and make the space appear closed in. Use deco-rative items sparingly.

* if possible, store towels in a closet outside of the bathroom. this way you won't have to de-vote space inside the bathroom to a closet.

* While some people like the thought of a separate bath and shower, in smaller bathrooms this may not be possible. instead, look for a combined shower and bath, or select a walk-in shower with a much smaller profi le.

* Windows are often welcome in bathrooms because of the ven-tilation they provide, but they

could be a hindrance in smaller bathrooms because they take up prime wall space. cover a win-dow in a shower stall to free up space. Just be sure to install a venting fan to reduce moisture in the bathroom.

* Maximize wall space if you need storage. Find cabinets that will fi t beneath windows or be able to fi t in thin areas between sinks and toilets. Over the toilet is prime area for cabinetry.

* consider a frameless show-er. this is a partitioned area of the bathroom that's set aside for

the shower and is typically only cordoned off by a thin wall or piece of glass. Or a shower with no walls at all is the ultimate in space-saving. the entire bath-room fl oor is decked out in tile, and a portion is sloped toward a shower drain.

* think about installing a sky-light if you prefer natural light, but there is no room for a tradi-tional window.

thinking creatively can help turn a cramped bathroom into a space-saving and well-designed room homeowners desire.




eleven

Recognized as one of the nation’s

outstanding manufacturers of

garages in“Home Mechanix”

Magazine

Refurbish Your Kitchen To Make It Accessible For All In Familya comfortable yet more ac-

cessible and barrier-free home are the desired aims of universal design. a term coined in the 1980s by architect ron Mace, universal design is defi ned as "the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent pos-sible, without the need for adap-tation or specialized design." For the now aging baby boomer gen-eration, which comprises about one-third of the U.s. population, universal design is just what the doctor ordered.

American Hardwoods and Universal Design

Universal design makes homes practical and user-friendly, and whether remodeling or buying, as these active, older adults con-template future health and mobil-ity issues, they want to remain in their homes and continue to live independently. to satisfy their desire for a warm, beautiful space, incorporating american hardwoods into the homes makes them attractive and inviting plac-es in which to live.

according to the american hardwood information center, (www.hardwoodinfo.com), and Gil thurm, executive vice presi-dent of the hardwood Manu-facturers association, "when it comes to universal design, american hardwoods are the all-natural choice for sturdy, at-tractive and healthy design mate-rials. the wide range of species -- oak, cherry, maple, and more -- provide a spectrum of colors and grain patterns to satisfy any decorating scheme."

Kitchens and BathModern kitchens are much

more than a place for food prepa-ration. Now family gathering places, even centers to entertain guests, kitchens need to be com-fortable, convenient and safe for everyone. Key to making a home barrier-free is the use of adjustable-height work areas and

unique cabinetry. Wall-mounted cabinets, for example, leave fl oor spaces clear and easy to clean. add an all-natural material like american hardwoods, and you have a healthy, beautiful kitchen as well.

here are some design features to raise the level of convenience and usability for everyone:

* Varied-height cabinets and countertops will accommodate multi-cook families, so parent and child may prepare a meal to-gether.

* Make components accessible whether standing or seated.

* sliding drawers, rollout shelves and lazy susans make items easier to reach.

* At the base of fl oor cabinets, keep the toe/kick space deep enough to accommodate wheel-chairs.

* lower cabinet doors and drawers will require reinforced hardware in case they are leaned on for support.

* d-shaped or lever-style han-dles and magnetic touch-and-re-lease cabinet doors are perfect for hands of any size or strength.

* to allow full use of the cabi-net door frame consider swing-away hinges.

* Under-the-counter refrigera-tor drawers and other fl exible ap-pliances make a kitchen more ac-

cessible for someone wheelchair

bound.similar universal design ideas

can be applied when remodeling a bathroom:

* Vary the height of vanities to lessen the need to crouch.

* Provide seated users adequate under-the-sink knee space.

* For additional storage, con-sider a cabinet on wheels, stored under the sink and movable.

solid hardwood cabinets, vani-ties and fl ooring add a degree of elegance to the remodel. don't worry about water damage. to-day's water-resistant fi nishes form a watertight seal protecting the wood yet allowing it to ex-pand and contract, normally.

Throughout the Homebuilt-ins and wall-mounted

cabinets provide open fl oor space to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers. Media room cabinets house and hide electrical com-ponents. larger bedrooms often feature a breakfast bar contain-ing cabinets for storage, a small refrigerator and countertop space for brewing coffee. Walk-in clos-ets with built-in drawers, pull-out trays and multi-height hang bars help keep everything organized and easily accessible.

to add style to the mix, solid hardwood cabinets complement existing furniture and room de-

See HARDWOOD, page 12

Showroomcoming!

Design • InstallationRemodeling

860-426-0333

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL

SHOWROOM & DESIGN STUDIOCONVENIENTLY LOCATED AT

966 SOUTH MAIN ST., PLANTSVILLE

HIC# 0633074 Fully Insured

the cheshire herald, OctOber 11, 2012twelve

STANLEYPAVING LLC

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIALLICENSED • FULLY INSURED

Specializing in• BACKHOE WORK • DRIVEWAYS

• PARKING LOTS • PAVER BRICK SIDEWALKS• CRUSHED STONE • PATCH & REPAIR• SEAL COATING • NEW & RESURFACE

FIND US IN THE YELLOW PAGES Lic #532227

FREEESTIMATES

Not affi liated with any other paving contractorwww.stanleypavingllc.com

(203) 294-0657

Savings of $100-$200!

“WE WILL MEET OR BEAT ANY PRICE WITHIN REASON.”

E.P.A. Lead Certified InstallersLead Renovation &

Repair Law Now In Effect

Silver City Furnace Co IncFAMILY OWNED & OPERATED • OVER 50 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

24 HOUR SERVICE AVAILABLE

DESIGN / INSTALLATION / SERVICE / MAINTENANCE

(203) 237-0995316 EAST MAIN STREET • MERIDEN, CT 06450

JOHN ALFIERI, PROP. · CT LICENCE # 300129

Indoor Comfort Specialists

Ad#:1257720 Date:10/05/12 Day:FRI Size:2X4 Cust:SILVER CITY FURNACE CO. Salesperson:114 Last Edited

By:DLISS-BOLDUC Pub:RJ Tag Line:FALL HOME IMPROV Color Info:

1257720 - Composite

FurnacesStartingAt $2600

SPECIALIZING INRESIDENTIAL

HEATING & AIRCONDITIONING

• WARM AIR FURNACES• BOILERS• HOT WATER HEATERS• ELECTRONIC

AIR CLEANERS• HUMIDIFIERS• CUSTOM

DUCT WORK

Buy A Energy StarFurnace And ReceiveUp To A $500 Rebate

We Specialize in Oil to Gas Conversions

BoilersStartingAt $3800

1257720

CHANGE FOR THEBETTER WITHENERGY STAR

Silver City Furnace Co.

316 EAST MAIN STREET • MERIDEN“Indoor Comfort Specialists”

CT Lic. #30012951(203) 237-0995

Ad#:1257720 Date:10/05/12 Day:FRI Size:2X4 Cust:SILVER CITY FURNACE CO. Salesperson:114 Last Edited

By:DLISS-BOLDUC Pub:RJ Tag Line:FALL HOME IMPROV Color Info:

1257720 - Composite

FurnacesStartingAt $2600

SPECIALIZING INRESIDENTIAL

HEATING & AIRCONDITIONING

• WARM AIR FURNACES• BOILERS• HOT WATER HEATERS• ELECTRONIC

AIR CLEANERS• HUMIDIFIERS• CUSTOM

DUCT WORK

Buy A Energy StarFurnace And ReceiveUp To A $500 Rebate

We Specialize in Oil to Gas Conversions

BoilersStartingAt $3800

1257720

CHANGE FOR THEBETTER WITHENERGY STAR

Silver City Furnace Co.

316 EAST MAIN STREET • MERIDEN“Indoor Comfort Specialists”

CT Lic. #30012951(203) 237-0995

Turn Pumpkins Into A Few Spirits Sure To Delight Partygoers

cor and add a level of quality unmatched by other construction materials.

With a host of species to choose from, major cabinet makers are embracing these ideas with spe-cial lines and features that blend the concepts to add function, comfort and beauty.

Healthy MaterialsHardwood fl oors are com-

monly found in universal design plans. Providing easy maneuver-ability for wheelchairs and mo-bile storage units, simple regular maintenance such as dust mop-ping, sweeping and vacuuming keep wood fl oors looking great.

american hardwoods are also non-toxic and do not trap aller-

gens such as mold spores and dust, and are often recommended by doctors for individuals with al-lergies or asthma.

A Perfect MatchFor those looking to add the

functionality and comfort of uni-versal design, a simple key word search, "universal home design," on any internet search engine is a great place to begin. then enjoy the best of both worlds by incor-porating the timeless beauty and warmth of american hardwoods into your plan.

learn more about solid ameri-can hardwood cabinetry, fl ooring, furniture and hardwood sustain-ability at the american hardwood information center at www.hard-woodinfo.com.

halloween is a beloved holiday among adults and

children alike. While the young-sters anxiously anticipate an af-ternoon spent trick-or-treating, adults often look forward to the myriad halloween parties that are an integral part of the fright-ening festivities.

halloween hosts looking to serve up some spirits of a differ-ent kind this October 31 should consider adding some pumpkin to the party. Pumpkins play an

important role each halloween, so why not include them on the menu?

Pumpkin Martini3 parts absolut 100

proof vodka1/2 part hiram

Walker pumpkin spice liqueur

splash maple syrup

combine all ingredients over ice and shake. strain into martini glass, and garnish with a

cinnamon stick.Want to serve up some spirits with a little extra something?

the following recipe for "Pumpkin"

from a.J. r a t h b u n ' s "Good spirits" (harvard com-

mon Press) not only in-

corporates pumpkin into the party, but once you

light it on fi re, you're sure to add some sizzle to the festivities.

Pumpkin2 ounces Kahlua3/4 ounce bailey's irish

cream1/2 ounce Goldschlager

Ground cinnamon1. Add the Kahlua and Bailey's

to an old-fashioned glass. stir briefl y.

2. Float the Goldschlager on top of the mix, pouring it over the back of a spoon if necessary. Carefully light it on fi re, using a long-handled match just touched to the liquid's edge. Keep a moist kitchen towel nearby for safety's sake.

3. sprinkle the cinnamon over the fl ames. Blow out. Drink, but be careful not to burn your mouth.

Hardwood Floors Make Sensecontinued from page 11

• WALKWAYS & PATIOS• RETAINING WALLS• RUBBERIFIC MULCH DEALER• LANDSCAPE DESIGN• BACKHOE SERVICE• DUMP TRUCK SERVICE

FALL

CLEAN UP

www.waitkuslandscaping.com203-272-9888


the cheshire herald, OctOber 11, 2012 thirteen

Let Us Cross CleaningOff Your “To Do” List.

With Merry Maids on the job, you have one less thing to worry about. And one sparkling clean house to show for it.

Good through 11/15/12

� Customized cleaning services to meet your particular needs and budget.� Bonded and insured employees.� Thoroughly screened, trained employees.� We bring our own equipment & supplies.� Quality Service Guarantee.

Call today for a FREE estimate!

203-272-8499

www.formerrymaids.com/ct/0518

© 2001 Merry Maids L.P.

Good through 9/30/07

Kids Back In School?Now is The Time To Get

Your House Back In Order

$15 OFFYour First CleaningNew Customers Only

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL

Luigy’sSeptic Services, LLC

LUIS VELEZ“I LOVE ME JOB”

Lic. #005144 203-248-1122

18 YEARS EXPERIENCE

$20 OFFYour Residential Pumping

C.O.D. with this ad.

EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE

With Cool Temps On The Way, Make Sure To Winterize Lawn

every weekend of the last few months you have spent

mowing, weeding, edging, and

trimming your lawn so that it will look its best. in order to ensure your lawn makes a complete recovery after win-ter hibernation, you may want to spend the fall taking steps to help your lawn survive the winter months ahead.

Winterizing a lawn varies depend-ing on where you live and how harsh a typical winter is. there are certain key tasks to complete be-fore you can rest for the winter season.

* remove fallen leaves and debris. leaf cleanup is

among the tasks homeowners dread the most. raking leaves can be arduous, but it is well

worth the effort. Fallen leaves can smother the grass and lead to dead spots and decay next season. Wait until the majority of the leaves have fallen from the trees before you begin to rake; otherwise, you could fi nd yourself repeating the process throughout the fall. Mulched leaves can be added in small amounts to garden beds to provide rich organic material for next year's crop of fl owers.

be sure to pick up any twigs and other debris as well. addi-tional debris can become trapped under snow and hinder grass growth when spring arrives.

* cut your lawn short. Unless the season is unseasonably wet and warm, your lawn shouldn't grow too much in October and November. continue to cut your lawn until there is no visible growth for about two weeks. it pays to give it a short cut before frost arrives so that long piles of dead grass will not smother any

new growth in the spring. also, long grass tends to bend down upon itself, trapping moisture that can lead to fungal diseases like snow mold.

* aerate the lawn. soil can be compacted over time, especially in yards that see heavy foot traf-fi c. You can rent an aerator from a lawn supply store so that water and fertilizer can reach the soil.

* Fertilize. Now is the time to give the lawn fresh food to over-winter and also replenish the strength of the root system. all summer long the lawn has been depleting the soil of nutrition, but autumn presents a great oppor-tunity to strengthen those roots. consider a slow-release formula designed for winterizing that will feed the lawn all winter long.

* edge the garden beds. take advantage of the cooler weather and slow-growing grass to re-edge around fl ower beds. Even though the grass above the sur-

face of the soil will stop growing, the roots will remain viable and the lawn will still be sending out rhizomes and tillers to produce new grass blades in the spring. these can easily encroach on gar-den beds. edge now so you will have less work to do in the spring.

* trim hedges and trees. if there are any overhanging tree branches or shrubbery blocking sunlight from reaching the lawn, cut back these areas once the foli-age has thinned. take advantage of your town's leaf and twig pick-up services.

* seed bare patches. scour the lawn for bare patches and put down some seed in these areas. the cooler weather will enable the seeds to germinate without having to compete with weed growth. Once you have prepared your lawn for the winter you can bring in any lawn tools that need repair and have them set and packed away for the spring.

out the trash. Plus, they will not become as odiferous as a regular pail. compactors also take up less space than a garbage pail and can look more aesthetically pleasing in the kitchen.

Many compactors have fi lters and deodorizing holders inside the compactor. this will elimi-nate the smell that often results from decomposing foods and other debris.

trash compactors can be espe-cially handy for individuals who live in an apartment or where space is at a premium in the kitchen.

The compactor will fl atten the

garbage when a button or lever is pressed, reducing the volume of the trash. it may also be used with plastic and aluminum recylables.

Wine Coolerchances are a wine cellar will

not fi t in the average house. But a wine refrigerator can keep wine at the right temperature and humid-ity for optimal enjoyment.

Wine coolers are growing in popularity as more wine affi cio-nados understand how the fl avor of wine can benefi t from proper storage. a refrigerator will hold wine bottles and insulate them from outside temperature fl uc-tuations. they will also be handy and ready for use when the time

comes.Drawer Dishwashers

Most households are already equipped with a dishwasher, but the majority are single wash area models. it is well known that for a dishwasher to operate effi ciently, the entire washer should be fi lled before running the cycle. For many people this can take days of dishes sitting soiled in the dish-washer.

drawer dishwashers split the cleaning area into two unique zones. this enables a smaller load to be washed. however, this isn't the only advantage. drawer dish-washers can be more ergonomic, reducing the need for bending

over to load the washer. Furthermore, because the two

drawers work independently of one another, one drawer can be used on a light cycle for minimal-ly soiled dishes, while the other

runs for heavily dirtied dishes -- all simultaneously.

their unique look also makes drawer dishwashers coveted by homeowners simply from a de-sign perspective.

Spruce Up Your Kitchen With Everything From Wine Coolers To Dishwasher Drawerscontinued from page 3




Fourteen

ADDITIONS - WINDOWS - ROOFING ON SCHEDULE COMMITMENTS

EXPIRES 3-1-131776 Meriden Rd., Wolcott

Call today to schedule a consultation with our designer

Keep Your Child’s Safety In Mind When Choosing A Costume

blyth explained. "it stabilizes the internal temperature from day to night fl uctuations and provides a largely self-regulating environ-ment. this faster method of con-struction creates a solid concrete wall." as a result, you will need less energy for mechanical heat-ing and cooling, delivering cost

savings throughout the year. a home built with this concrete system stands to be stronger, pro-vides greater safety, offers greater sound resistance -- and would be far less prone to mold, cold spots and drafts. insulated concrete forms (www.nudura.com) are an option, so be sure to discuss this method with your builder.

dressing up and engag-ing in role play is an

important component of child-hood learning and having fun. although costumes are regularly used in day care centers, schools and at home, they become the center of attention when hallow-een arrives.

the practice of wearing cos-tumes dates back at least 2,000 years to ancient europeans and celts. these cultures celebrated a holiday called samhain, which represented their new year. sam-hain fell on November 1 and marked the fi rst day of winter af-ter the summer harvest. these an-cient people associated the winter with coldness, darkness and death and believed the day before sam-hain -- October 31 -- established a distorted boundary between the living and the dead. therefore, individuals wore costumes and masks to avoid being recognized by the ghosts that came out on the night of samhain. they would also place bowls of food out-side of their homes to satisfy the ghosts and keep them from enter-ing the home.

although halloween has trans-formed more into a commercial holiday than one associated with death and the afterworld in the

literal sense, many adults and children continue to participate in the rituals that were set forth many years ago, most notably wearing costumes. Parents may want to ensure that the costumes their children wear are safe to help make halloween a day with-out injury.

* create a cape that doesn't choke. a long cape can be stepped on and then tug at a child's neck. instead, make a cape that has arm loops to keep it in place instead of a tie around the neck. this way there never will be a choking haz-ard.

* check makeup labeling. there are many safe halloween cosmetics on the market, but some should not be used around the eyes or mouth because aller-gic reactions could occur. dou-ble-check all ingredients lists and package warnings before using makeup on children, who tend to have more sensitive skin than adults. also, it is a good idea to do a test patch of the product. Put a small dab of the makeup in the crook of the inside of the child's elbow. Wait 24 hours and see if any itching or a rash forms. this could indicate an allergy to the product.

* Keep eyes open. Masks are

popular components of hallow-een costumes, but some designs can obstruct vision or even impair breathing. Masks always should be comfortable to wear and of-fer good forward and peripheral views.

* choose natural materials for costumes. buying a pre-made costume at the store may save you time and money, but there may be safer options if you construct a costume yourself. Many cos-tumes are made overseas and may contain materials that are toxic or off-gas volatile organic chemicals (VOcs), particularly plastic and vinyl products. breathing in the fumes can be dangerous to young children. by making the costume yourself, you can control what fabrics and other materials are used.

* Go organic. there are a num-ber of companies that are now making halloween costumes from organic fabrics and recycled materials. a simple online search can give you a host of prospects for purchasing these costumes.

* Make it visible. trick-or-treating at night can be, well, tricky. darkness can make it hard for drivers and other pedestrians to see costume-clad children. if going door-to-door will be hap-

pening at night, consider giving children glow sticks or fl ashlights to carry. There also are refl ective tapes that can be attached to cos-tumes that make them light up when lights shine on the tape.

* avoid choking hazards. Many costumes come with small detailing or accessories that may be hazardous to young children. Youngsters who do not yet know what items should and should not

be put in their mouths should not wear costumes with removable or small detailing. also, avoid the use of fake teeth (such as vampire fangs) and fake blood or goo cap-sules that are meant to be bitten, so they won't be swallowed.

halloween is meant to be a time of fun and adventure. ensur-ing costumes are safe for children can help make the day even more enjoyable for all involved.

Concrete Can Help You Save On Home Heating Costs

continued from page 6

the cheshire herald, OctOber 11, 2012 Fifteen

Fall Sale October 8 – Nov. 3

Custom Window Treatment Labor 10% off

All Stock Fabrics 20% Off Cut Yardage 15% off

(5 yard min. plus UPS) Kravet - Robert Allen – Duralee – Fabricut

Michaels – Carole - Stout

Stock Trims 25% Off Most brands Blinds & Shades

Norman Wood Shutters Hunter Douglas Mail-In Rebates

Shop at Home Service

Call Pamela Today

HFM Interiors, LLC Home Fabrics

Tim Slocum - Owner www.homefabric.com

1028 South Main St., Cheshire, CT 06410 Tel. 203-272-3529 Fax 203-272-3520

HOURS: MON. - FR I. ; 9 :30-6PM; SAT. 9:30-5PM

WIDE Selection ofFloor Lamps

The Lamp Shoppe OF HAMDEN SINCE 1969

Gracious Home Lighting is about a lifestyle

EXPERT LAMP REPAIRS ON PREMISESLargest selection of lamp shades in the area!

993 DIXWELL AVENUE HAMDEN CT :: 203.624.2983Tues. - Fri. 10 - 4:45 pm, Sat. 10 - 3:45 pm, Closed Sunday & Monday

property taxes are the assessed value of your home and the prop-erty tax rate for where you live. in many cases, making improve-ments to the inside and outside of your home can result in higher taxes on your property.

Many homeowners do not think about the tax man when they are about to renovate their home. but it is important to consider that home repairs -- even planting

a garden -- could lead to higher property taxes.

although the vast majority of repairs that most often affect taxes include major renovations, there are lesser known repairs that can catch even savvy homeown-ers by surprise.

here is a look at some of the renovations that could raise your property taxes.

* Adding a room: convert-ing the garage into a bedroom or

adding on a new bathroom will increase your home's value and the property tax you'll pay on the home. although tax assessors don't usually make surprise trips to your home to check for reno-vations indoors, they may peruse permits filed at the clerk's office and then investigate.

Permits are the primary way assessors learn about improve-ments, so much so that some homeowners look to circumvent

permits when making renova-tions. but that can cause a num-ber of problems down the line if and when you decide to sell.

* Pools and outdoor struc-tures: changes to a home's ex-terior are some of the easiest to see and document. Permanent changes outdoors, such as the installation of a shed with a con-crete floor, a deck, or a pool can definitely increase property taxes.

* Landscaping: hiring a pro-

fessional to do your lawn and plants can result in higher taxes. it's called "alteration of land im-provement."

repaving a driveway or add-ing a new cement walkway may also increase your home's value and, subsequently, your property tax bill.

* Fireplaces: the installation of a fireplace can also increase a home's value, leading to a higher tax bill as well.

Why? these frames are extremely energy-efficient and some of the best have fusion-welded corners and multi-chambered construc-tion. Plus, maintenance hassles are so low you'll forget the hor-rors of rotting frames, scraping, and repainting that come with wood windows.

3. investigate your window options and stick with a national

manufacturer that can stand be-hind a long-term warranty. For his renovation project, clement se-lected simonton vinyl windows. the award-winning company impressed him with its 65-year history and return-on-investment with their eNerGY star quali-fied windows.

4. remember that a thermally-efficient window is sealed tightest when it's locked. so, to keep your

energy bills lowers, don't just close your windows, make sure to lock them.

Trim Tips:1. if you have the opportunity

to replace your entry door or win-dows, make sure to finish off the job with stylish window and door trim. lightweight and easy to in-stall, weather-resistant synthetic mouldings, shutters and entryway surrounds from Fypon(r) are a

Adding A Room Or Doing Some Landscaping Can Add Value

definite do-it-yourself project for any homeowner.

2. take an eagle's eye look at your home. Most houses have louvers placed high above the at-tic or garage space to allow ven-tilation in those areas. and, most houses have wooden louvers that can rot with time. replacing lou-vers with insect-resistant and rot-resistant synthetic louvers can improve the home's appearance

and functionality.3. Wrap it up. clement recom-

mends that if you have unsightly porch posts you can easily trans-form them into showpiece parts of your home by using column Wrap Kits.

the decorative synthetic pieces can be installed in less than 15 minutes around existing struc-tural posts and columns to give an upgraded look to any home.

better indoor air quality.Properly insulated crawl spaces

control moisture and air seal, and

save on energy bills while im-proving occupant comfort.

the United states department of energy suggests homeown-

ers properly insulate the crawl space within their homes to pro-tect from two main problems. Firstly, by maintaining an accept-able temperature within the crawl space during winter, homeowners can avoid cold, uncomfortable floors above. Secondly, removing

excess humidity in crawl spac-es during the warmer summer months can decrease the chances of mold growth or buckling hard-wood floors above.

spray foam insulation, like that available from innovators like icynene, can help reduce the

likelihood of moisture gathering within crawl spaces. left uninsu-lated, homeowners run the risk of compromising their home's dura-bility and comfort not to mention possible unexpected repair costs. Moisture control information can be found at www.icynene.com.

able liners, so when you are fin-ished painting, clean up is as easy as throwing away the liner -- then you are instantly ready for your next paint project! handy Paint liners are made of recycled plas-

tic that is thick and durable, and can be used with all paints and stains.

Plus, they snap into place so you don't have to worry about them shifting around and causing a spill.

Concentrate On Windows And Front Door To Improve The Look Of Your House

The Crawl Space Might Be The Key To Making Sure Your Mold Problem Doesn’t Worsen

Cleanup Should Be Easy After You Finish With Your Next Paint Job






Got stuff.....Get an ad online.

Place your ad online.www.cheshireherald.com

Classifi edsQuick and simple

the cheshire herald, OctOber 11, 2012sixteen

2012 fall home improvement

Documents