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Winter Renovations for a More Comfortable Spring Home

When cool winter days arrive, you don’t have to give up on making improvements to your home. There are many projects that are ideally suited to being done in cooler weather, and can provide you with a more comfortable home when spring arrives. While you may think of home renovations as being a summer project, here are a few you can tackle even when the temperatures start to dip lower.

winter renovations

Painting Rooms
If you’re cooped up in the house anyway, you might as well transform the walls within to different colors you love. Break out the paint chips, choose some new shades, and mix up your decorating scheme. You’ll want to crack a window to ventilate the room you’re working in, but you won’t feel too cold once you work up a sweat as you cut in the edges and fill in new shades.

New Flooring
Winter is also an excellent time to install new flooring. Most wood floors need to acclimate to the room they’ll be installed in, so stack the boxes against an interior wall a few days before you start the work. Wood floors and most laminates don’t require any adhesive, so you won’t have to worry about ventilation. Remember that tile floors may feel chilly against your feet in cold climates, but wood floors and high-end vinyl are comfortable throughout the year. They’ll also be easier to clean in every season.

home renovations

Look to the Backyard
If you want to warm up in style, then consider a Sonoma Backyard heated pool or hot tub. Most companies will offer installations even when the weather is a little chilly, and you’ll love being able to relax in your own hot tub outdoors no matter the weather. You’ll also find this particular addition is a hit when entertaining. If you’ve always ignored your backyard in past winters, then this may be the year to give this space some extra attention.

Window Treatments
If you’re trying to save on energy bills, then your window treatments can make a world of difference. Thick, thermal drapes will effectively block drafts while making any space feel warmer. You can open them during the day to let the warm sunshine in, and close them tightly at night to keep the evening chill away. If you’re feeling trapped in the house by cold temperatures, then you can make this renovation a little interesting by updating your window coverings to match the room.

New Fixtures
From the faucet in your bathroom to the kitchen lights, this is an ideal time to replace old fixtures. You can give the space a fresh new look, and you’ll enjoy your home more throughout the year. Most plumbing and electrical fixtures are replaced in a matter of hours, so it’s an easy weekend project for days when you’d rather not be outside anyway.

Attic Insulation

The last place you want to be on a hot summer day is in the attic, but winter is an ideal time to do some improvements in here. Wear long sleeves and a light jacket to keep insulation off your skin, and this way you won’t have to worry about getting heat stroke. You’ll find your energy bills are lower when the attic is properly covered, and as an added bonus, the savings will continue into the spring and summer months as the insulation prevents exterior heat from migrating into your living space.

When it comes to renovations, timing is everything. One benefit of many projects is that you can get a more attractive price on the labor in the wintertime. This is because most contractors slow down during the winter months, so you may be able to ask for a little discount on professional services.

 

Winter Storms: How to Combat any Cold Weather Damage to your Yard

winter storm

If you’ve invested a large amount of time and money in building and maintaining your yard, it seems an awful waste to let it decay from the harsh winter season. And while some level of damage is unavoidable, homeowners can minimize damage using these five simple tips.

Combat Frost Heaving

Frequent freezing then thawing of yard soil during fall or spring seasons can cause the ground to expand and contract, which ultimately causes damage to the roots and uprooting of shrubs and new plants off the soil. To combat frost heaving, apply 4 to 6 inches of mulch to maintain constant ground temperatures.

Combat Salt Damage

Salt is applied to sidewalks and roads to melt ice during the winter season. Unfortunately, as helpful as salt is to de-icing the ground, it can also cause or amplify Winter-induced injuries and plant decay including bud decay and twig dieback. Salt running down underground can get absorbed by plants and damage their roots and foliage. To avoid salt damage, try to plant flora as far away as possible from highly salted areas and from where there is heavy foot and vehicle traffic.

Combat Pests

Mice, rabbits, deer, and vole are all potential suspects that can cause serious damage to flora during the cold weather. These animals can consume soft twigs, bark, and plant foliage. Deer can inflict serious damage to trees when they rub their antlers against it. If a tree becomes too unstable and damaged to be near you and your family, make sure to contact tree removal service providers like Pete & Ron’s Tree Service.

Maintaining Deciduous Flora

Deciduous trees and shrubs lose their foliage during autumn season and have adapted to the cold climates by becoming dormant during winter season. While they have adopted to protect themselves, homeowners can practice techniques to make sure that plants enter dormancy state before temperatures drop down to significant levels. For instance, you can install plastic or wire guards around trees to protect young, tender barks from chomping mice and rabbits

Because plants and trees respond differently to Winter stress, it is of utter importance to learn and research about the ones you have in your yard. Some cold hardy trees like Larch and Lodge-Pole Pine may require less to no maintenance at all during winter, and intervening may only cause more harm than good to it. The same goes for several hardy shrub roses that require no winter protection.

 

5 Warm, Cozy Home Tips for Those Cold Winter Months

winter

Whether you bundle up with a ton of blankets, or find yourself craving a hot drink, winter seems to make you cold no matter how high you set the thermostat. Now that winter is in full swing, you may be wondering how to keep your home cozy when it is so chilly outside. There are several ways to keep your home well insulated and trap the heat inside; you just need to learn a few tricks.

Invest in a Draft Stopper
Many homes seem to have a slight draft underneath the front or back door so investing in a draft stopper to seal the space between the door and the floor will help keep the cold air outside and the warm air inside. If you are unable to purchase one, it is easy to make your own by lining the area with an old towel or rug.

Caulk Windows
Applying caulk to the inside of your windows is an inexpensive and easy way to help keep the cold air out. Many people live in older homes that may not have well-insulated windows so applying caulk to the lining is a great alternative to investing a lot of money in new windows. Just go to your local home improvement store to find some and get tips on how to apply it.

Close your Curtains
Closing your curtains once it gets dark will insulate your house from any drafts that may still be coming through the cold glass of your windows. However, during the day when the sun is shining, leave the curtains open to allow sunlight to shine in and naturally warm the room.

Close off Unused Rooms
If you live alone or have rooms you don’t use very often, keep those doors and vents closed to avoid heating rooms you won’t be using. This will allow the heat to travel to the rooms you and your family frequent, keeping you warmer and your costs down.

Invest in a Programmable Thermostat
Purchasing a programmable thermostat can do wonders for your heating bills during the cold winter months. Applying settings that will keep the heat lower during the day when the sun is shining, and at night when you are sleeping will save a lot of money, and keep the house on a stable heating cycle at all times. While investing in the thermostat, it is also a good idea to get your furnace checked out. HomeSmart from Xcel Energy recommends you change your filter at least annually and get your furnace serviced to stay safe all year long.

It doesn’t take much to make a world of difference in keeping your home warm and cozy this winter. By following a few helpful tips, you will find your home stays warmer and your bills get lower.

Winterize Your Home Decor & Liven Up Chilly Days

living-room-fireplace

There is no better way to welcome the cold months ahead than to turn up the heating, curl up in a soft blanket by the fireplace and enjoy your favorite indoor leisure activities. Once you are done with seasonal decluttering, add a note of warmth and comfort to your living area with the help of a few snug accessories that combine aesthetics with functionality. Do not know where to start? Here are some convenient tips on how to revamp the decor with a few inexpensive modifications and turn your home into a lovely spot for relaxation and enjoyment in the face of the cold outside.

Off with the chilling view: Cover your windows

Most homes leak heat like sieves, windows being one of the main culprits for energy loss and sky-high electricity bills. To trap warmth indoors, use rich, heavy drapery and other window coverings: this simple trick will prove a rewarding investment in terms of lower energy waste, added privacy from gossip mongering neighbors and improved room look. If you are not a big fan of lavish drapery, you can install custom blinds and shades that will allow you to weatherproof your home, keep out nosy peepers and protect the rooms from intense sunlight come spring and summer.

Put your foot down and enjoy it: Add soft, colorful carpets dog-carpet

Another aspect of your home that may use a little tender, love and care, floors will both look and feel better if you shod them with soft carpeting this winter. Elegant, thick rugs in either monochromatic designs or bold color combinations will provide an extra layer of insulation and add visual interest to your living area decor. When choosing new carpeting, avoid brash tones, go for soft, full carpets and make sure you match the floor cover color scheme to the rest of the décor (single-tone rugs and carpets with tastefully contrasted colors will work well in most settings).

Colors of windy weather: Use warm tones for comfort

Warm colors such as red, brown and gold will help create a cozy atmosphere indoors so in case your home is lacking in visual warmth, you can add details in one (or more) of these tones to liven up the room feel. Warm-colored knit motifs such as cushion covers, blankets and sofa throws will prove both a functional and appealing addition to your living room. Or, you can use ornaments and functional accessories such as brown, yellow or orange scented candles, golden mirror frames, red or coffee-colored jewelry boxes and lacquered wicker baskets to achieve the inviting look.

Light that shines through cold nights: Use candles and dimmer switches

Winter nights filled with the sounds of raging blizzards and stormy winds outside can truly be daunting. Do away with the common cold and creepy monsters that lurk in the night with candlesthe help of a subtle flicker of tea candles and dimmer lights. While scented candles offer an inexpensive and efficient way to add a little warmth to your home, dimmer switches and dimmable bulbs provide an endlessly customizable source of light for rooms which require different lighting for special occasions or different times of day.

Is your home ready for yet another winter fairytale? Follow these simple tips and add a note of warmth to your living area without breaking the bank. Remember: a home that feels cozy is the one which blends function and visual interest. If your house is lacking in the latter of the two, now is the best time to do something about it, before snow and freezing temperatures come knocking on your door and lock you in until springtime.

This article was written by Zoe Clark. Zoe is an environmentalist, home decorator and DIY enthusiast. When not obsessing about designing perfect homes, she is spending time with her family.

How to Safely and Efficiently Shovel Snow

How to Safely and Efficiently Shovel Snow

While school kids are busy wishing for snow days, us adults are wondering if this will be the year we’ll successfully shovel snow without backache or injury.

Most adults assume they know how to shovel snow. We grab a shovel and boldly attack the snow in an attempt to flaunt our strength. The problem is most of us assume wrong.

Instead of a bullheaded mantra of “tough and fast,” try integrating these tips as part of your new mantra: “safe and smart.”

Shovel Smart, Shovel Safe

Most homeowners will do some shoveling, so it is important to familiarize yourself with proper technique. Bad shoveling habits can lead to back injuries, falls, heart attacks and other medical calamities. To avoid injury:

  • Make a plan so you don’t end up moving the same snow twice. You don’t want to accidentally block your door, the street, your car, etc.
  • Move in small sections instead of straining to reach it all from one spot.
  • Don’t wait for the last flake to fall. Shovel every few inches so the snow is not as heavy.
  • If you’re unable to shovel before the end of the storm, shovel in layers instead.
  • Whenever possible, push the snow instead of lifting it on the shovel.
  • If you have to lift snow, lift with your legs, not your back.
  • If possible, walk the snow to where you want it instead of throwing it.
  • Don’t turn at the waist. Try pivoting on one foot instead.
  • Spray your shovel with cooking spray so the snow slides off instead of building up and weighing you down.

Take Time to Prepare

Just as important as your technique while shoveling is your preparation for the task. Make sure you:

  • Wear thick shoes with a good tread and ankle support.
  • Dress in layers so you can easily remove them as you work up a sweat.
  • Treat it like a workout: Stretch and warm up before heading out.
  • Take frequent breaks to warm up, stretch and hydrate. This is especially important for anyone with pre-existing health concerns.

Pick the Right Equipment

The right tools — whether that’s a shovel, a snow blower or heavy machinery — make all the difference.snow-blower

When it comes to shovels, it’s not one-size-fits-all. Find a shovel that is the right length and weight for you. Be wary of shovels with ergonomic handles. They may make scooping and throwing snow more difficult.

Snow blowers are fantastic tools, but they must be chosen and handled with care. Bigger isn’t always better, so ignore flashy marketing and speak to a sales rep about your specific needs.

Follow safety precautions when using a snow blower. Never use your hand to clear clogs or debris. Use a broom handle or similar tool instead. Have family and pets stay inside to avoid ice, debris and other non-snow projectiles. Always wear gloves, hearing protection and protective glasses. Follow the same dressing guidelines as shoveling.

Have needs that can’t be met by a shovel or snow blower? My brother-in-law swears by his skid loader. He bought it when building his home and now uses it as his go-to snow removal tool. If your property is too big or annual snowfall too heavy, you may benefit from heavy machinery.

“Pride goeth before a fall.” That’s especially true when snow shoveling. Don’t let a need for speed or a desire to show off your strength put your health at risk. Following the above tips may not win you any snow removal races, but they will ensure you get through the winter without a visit to the chiropractor or ER.

 

 

Six Yard Preps you have to do Before Winter

autumn

Just because your yard is going to go dormant in the winter, doesn’t mean you can skip a little TLC before the snow starts blowing. Doing a little maintenance in the fall will create a thick, luscious lawn when spring comes around again, and less work for you when spring cleaning comes around.

Rake Up the Leaves
It may be tempting to leave your yard covered in leaves when the last of them finally fall, but a layer of leaves will slowly kill your grass. Leaves prevent the grass from getting necessary sunlight through the season, so make sure you remove them as they fall, since it can take a few months for trees to fully shed their leaves. Any time leaves or other debris are left to sit on your lawn, the grass will die from lack of sunlight or from mold and disease. If you have a mower with a mulching attachment, you can shred the leaves into fine pieces and leave them on the grass.

Water Throughout the Winter

Many homeowners think once winter hits they don’t have to water their grass anymore. This misconception is a big reason why it takes so long to bring your grass back from a long, dry winter. Homeowners often believe this because they think grass dies in the winter, and simply comes back to life in the spring. Grass actually goes dormant and stops growing, but it still needs water to keep it alive. If you live in a region where you get a lot of snow, then you don’t need to water your lawn. However, if winters are warmer and/or dry, you’ll need to water your grass every two to three weeks.

Seeding 
The end of fall is a great time to seed your lawn. Autumn seeding allows your grass to grow thick and strong. When you shop for seed, make sure you read the bags or talk to knowledgeable staff at the garden center. There are various grass seed mixtures for different climates, and some seed mixes are better for shady conditions, while others are great for cold, dry winter weather. Use a rotary spreader set at the manufacturer’s recommended rate. Once you’ve put the seed down, ensure it gets plenty of water so it can germinate.

Fertilize
Fall is also a great time to fertilize. Aim for the beginning of November if you live in a warmer climate. Consider fall fertilization a boost to give it the strength to survive the cold temperatures. If you want to get really fancy, send a soil sample off to have it tested for the nutrients it’s deficient in. Most commercial fertilizers are suitable for lawns of all types, so there isn’t any need to get too elaborate. Remember not to apply a fertilizer/weed killer combination if you’ve just seeded your grass.

Control Pesky Weeds
Lawn experts agree that fall is the ideal time to tackle weeds. Plants are in an energy absorbing mode in the fall, so they willingly absorb everything given to them. This includes weed killers. If you apply a weed killer in the fall, you shouldn’t see those weeds return again for a long time. The best time to apply it is in the middle of fall when temperatures are still above 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Mow One Last Time
Even if you keep your grass fairly tall in the warmer months, winter is not the time for long grass. Experts recommend mowing your grass down to one or one and a half inches. This puts lawn-careless stress on the roots as the grass goes dormant, and makes it easier to aerate. If your grass is currently three or more inches in height, don’t mow it down all at once. Spread the cutting out over a few mowings to prevent stressing the grass.

It might seem odd to prepare your lawn for spring in the fall and winter, but some cold winter prep work ensures your lawn is thick and green after the snow melts.

 Guest Post By:

“Kara Masterson is a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in West Jordan, Utah. She loves the outdoors and spends most her time hiking and gardening. For more information on how to protect your lawn and landscaping from winter, talk to Classic Jack Landscaping, one of the leading Utah County landscaping companies.”

An Insight into Energy-Efficient Windows

energy efficient windows

In the wake of winter, most homeowners begin to dread the prospects of high energy bills and inadequately heated living areas. Even with seamless weather-stripping and optimal external and internal insulation, there will always be a few phantom heat leaks that may compromise the comfort of your home.

As a general rule, windows are the biggest heat outlet and if not outfitted with the right type of panes, they can considerably up your electricity bills without providing warmth that goes with the price. To keep freezing temperatures and high energy expenses at bay this winter, opt for energy-efficient windows with either double- or triple-glazing. If the idea sounds worth a go, here are some retrofit window basics to help you pick the right set of new panes for your home.

How energy-efficient windows work

Double-glazed windows consist of two panes separated by a gap (usually 16 millimeters wide). The air trapped between the two glass sheets is filled with either air or gas and functions as an insulating block which prevents escape of heat. Triple-glazed windows have three panes of glass, each separated from the other by an air- or gas-filled space, and they often provide better insulation than their double-glazed counterparts.

Top benefits of retrofit windows

In addition to keeping the house warm and reducing electricity bills, this retrofit also entail a lower carbon footprint than the traditional option, which it more earth-friendly, we learn from Melbourne-based retailers of double glazed windows. Other known benefits include fewer draughts, lower external noise levels and minimal condensation. On top of that, double- and triple-glazed windows are very durable and can last up to 20 years, which translates as higher long-term savings.

Retrofit glass and gap filling options

When choosing energy-efficient windows, pay attention to BFRC ratings, and if possible, opt for low-emissivity panes internally coated by metal oxide to minimize loss of heat while ensuring ample sunlight. Other features to keep an eye out on when shopping for new windows include use of internal gasses (such as argon, krypton or xenon) and pane spacers known as warm edges which should contain little or no metal for maximum heat loss prevention.

Window frame types used in earth-friendly windows

Energy-efficient windows are available in four main frame types, i.e. uPVC, wood, composite and aluminum/steel framing. While uPVC and aluminum/steel frames are recyclable, slenderenergy efficient replacement windows and provide a lengthy lifespan, wooden frames entail minimal environmental impact but they also require proper maintenance. Composite framing, on the other hand, requires less maintenance and is extremely weatherproof thanks to its internal timber structure with plastic or aluminum coating.

ABC of energy and U-value ratings

Most double- and triple-glazed windows are rated according to their energy efficiency. The energy performance scale devised by the British Fenestration Rating Council runs from A to G, A-rated windows boasting highest heat retention. In addition to the window energy rating, you should also check the U-values shown on the label and pick the panes with lowest U-values as they entail minimal heat loss and improved insulation features.

Ventilation aspects of earth-friendly windows

Retrofit windows are air-tighter than standard panes, so you should strive to keep your home properly aired to prevent condensation buildup. If your house is lacking in adequate ventilation features, consider either regularly airing the rooms or choosing windows with trickle frame vents. If condensation continues to build up despite your best efforts, your household may be suffering from a damp problem which you will need to tackle on your own or hire experts to fix it for you.

Winter is just around the corner, but days of warmth and comfort are not gone. With the right set of windows, you home will stay cozy and well-heated even with blizzards  raging outside – so go ahead and replace your panes with retrofit glazing while the weather still allows it.

 

7 Surefire Ways to know that your Household is ready for Winter

7 Surefire Ways to Know that your Household is Ready for Winter

The end of summer brings on the chilly air of fall, a reminder that the winter is right around the corner. There’s no better time to start prepping your home for the frigid months than right now! On top of making sure your home will withstand even a treacherous season, these changes will help you save on your utility bills, too.

1. Give Your Heating System a Tune-Up

Hire a professional to inspect your heat pump or furnace. They’ll ensure that the system is in good shape and clean so that it works efficiently all season long. If you’re in need of furnace repair, consider a company like HomeSmart from Xcel Energy instead of trying to make the changes yourself.

2. Reverse Your Fans

Your ceiling fans are probably used all spring and summer to keep the air as cool as possible. In the cold months, you can reverse the blade direction so that the fans push warm out into the room. During the fall and winter, your fans should run clockwise to produce the updraft, pushing hotter air down. You’ll especially notice the difference in the rooms with high ceilings.

3. Check Out Your Shingles

Head up to the roof – or hire someone to go up there – to look for loose, missing or damaged shingles, which could leak when snow starts melting. If necessary, have shingles repaired now, before it’s too late.

4. Clean the Gutters

While you’re up there, clean out your gutters. When your gutters aren’t cleaned up, water can damage the roofing, siding and trim, and it can also lead to ice dams and leaks.

5. Rake Your Roof

If you have a flat roof, rake it off to clear it of leaves and pine needles, both of which can hold moisture.

6. Insulate Your Windows

If there are gaps in your window frames, apply exterior caulk. Use silicone caulk on the exterior of your home, which can stand up to the elements. You may also want to add weather stripping to your doors.

7. Insulate the Doors

You can put exterior caulk in the door frames, too, but weather stripping is probably going to be more effective. If there are small gaps in the door joints, you can use caulk. You’ll know you’ve sealed them properly when you can no longer see daylight pouring in.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to make these necessary changes and upgrades to your home. You don’t want to find out that you have a leaky roof or poor insulation by finding mold in your attic or getting a high utility bill.

 

Gas vs Solid Fuel Fireplaces

Both gas and solid fuel fireplaces have their own distinct advantages over the other, but which one suits your needs? This infographic contains some of the main advantages associated with both gas and fuel fireplaces.

gas or solid fuel fireplaces

 

Source:  http://www.livingstone.ie/

 

Tips To Prepare Your Windows And Doors For Winter

How much do you spend on utilities? Are you looking for ways to save? A typical American household spends about $2,100 on energy bills each year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Most of that expense comes from a home’s energy use during the winter heating season. But a quick home checkup can help you can reduce these costs, prepare for winter and enjoy energy savings.

energy efficient windows

Properly installed and maintained windows and doors can help keep your home more comfortable year-round. Save on heating costs by preparing your windows and doors for winter with these tips:

* Clear sills and moving parts of dirt and debris. Debris like sand, dirt or leaves can get caught in windowsills and moving parts of windows or doors. Clean these areas with a dry paintbrush to create a tighter seal and enhance window and door performance.

* Check weather stripping. Re-attach or replace missing or worn weather stripping around windows and doors. Loose weather stripping can let cold air in during the winter and out in the summer, reducing energy efficiency.

* Reapply caulk or sealant around windows and doors. Reseal areas around windows and doors that may have been exposed to heavy weather or extreme sunlight – creating breaks in caulk or sealant – to help reduce potential drafts and leaks.

* Installing snap-in blinds or shades. Install snap-in blinds or shades to help insulate your home from cold outdoor temperatures. Pella Designer Series windows and patio doors feature convenient between-the-glass options to add energy efficiency and privacy.

* Repair or replace damaged exterior surfaces. Cracked or deteriorated wood associated with water penetration may allow moisture or cold air to leak into your home. Look closely for signs of moisture leakage and replace damaged wood. Consult a professional to help correct any roof or drainage problems around your home.

* Install storm doors. Storm doors add an extra layer of protection and help reduce air and moisture leakage. Adding a Pella storm door to your exterior doors can reduce energy loss through the entryway by up to 45 percent.

* Replace old windows and doors with energy-efficient ones. If you have single-pane glass, clear glass, or older windows or doors, you may be paying more to heat your home in the winter and cool it in the summer. Replace old windows with energy-efficient, double or triple-pane glass versions made with insulating argon, or install new durable fiberglass doors to help save money and energy year-round.

Contact us today for a free estimate to have new energy efficient windows and doors installed before the cold weather hits!

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