Tips For Hosts To Prepare Their Yard For An Evening Of Entertaining
Even when the sun goes down, the opportunity to entertain outdoors is still possible. Transforming a backyard into an evening oasis does not necessarily require major renovations, but it should involve adjusting the atmosphere to facilitate comfort and visibility. The following tips can help hosts optimize outdoor spaces for nighttime events.
Layered Lighting
Lighting is the main priority when hosting at night. Lighting establishes ambiance and creates safety in the space. Hosts should avoid floodlights, which can be too harsh and create a clinical feeling. Instead, melding different lighting options
together can set the scene. String lights provide a warm, even glow that can outline the perimeter and “ceiling” of an outdoor room. Lowvoltage LEDs or solar lights can make walkways more visible and call attention to changes in elevation. Accent lighting, such as small spotlights uplighting trees or architectural features, will create depth and keep the yard from feeling like an abyss beyond the patio or deck.
Create Focal Points
Individuals will gather around various focal points in the yard. These established zones will encourage conversation and other activities. A fire pit is a natural magnet
tame the chills if the temperature drops. Keeping popup canopies at the ready will help if rain starts to fall.
Accessibility to Food and Drink
for outdoor events. Arrange seating around the fire pit to keep conversation flowing. An outdoor bar also is a great place for people to gather, whether it’s stocked with alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks. Mark off an area where people can mingle and
dance. Set up an outdoor speaker in this area.
Outdoor Comfort
Contending with bugs and weather is a natural side effect of spending time outdoors, particularly in the evening. Citronella candles can keep mosquitoes and gnats at bay. A simple electric floor fan also can be effective against mosquitoes, which are weak fliers that can’t fly against the breeze. A fire pit, propane patio heater and a basket of blankets can help
Beyond the bar, having self-service stations in various spots enables guests to grab food or drink as needed instead of having to trek indoors. Make sure these spots are well-lit. Space drinks away from the food to prevent traffic jams. Invest in some covered containers that will keep food safe from ants or flying insects and trays to easily transport glassware and other items back into the house.
A yard can be a magical place to entertain at night when hosts take a few extra steps to ready the space.
8 Tools To Help Beginner Gardeners Get Started
The right tool for the job is essential to working safely and efficiently. This is as true in the workplace as it is in the garden.
Novice gardeners may not know where to begin in regards to which tools they need. The following are eight items that can serve as a solid foundation for beginning gardeners.
1. Gloves: Your hands will be working hard, so it pays to protect them from calluses, blisters, splinters, insects, and dirt. Look for water-resistant gloves that are also breathable.
2. Hand pruners: Hand pruners are essential for cutting branches, cleaning up shrubs, dead-heading flowers, and various other tasks. Choose ergonomic, no-slip handles that will make work easier. Rustresistant, nonstick blades also are handy.
3. Wheelbarrow: A wheelbarrow can transport gear to garden beds or tote dirt, leaves, rocks, and other materials around the landscape. A good wheelbarrow is strong but light enough to maneuver when full.
4. Loppers: Long-handled loppers will fit the bill for thick branches. The long handles provide leverage to cut through branches an inch or more in diameter.
Hand trowel: A hand trowel is a handy tool that lets you dig holes or unearth weeds. While shopping for a trowel, consider getting a hand-held garden fork, which can aerate soil and cut through roots.
6. Hose/watering can: Keeping gardens hydrated is part of ensuring their health. That makes a hose and a watering can two invaluable tools to have around. Invest in a lightweight, expandable hose if storage space is at a premium. An adjustable nozzle will enable you to customize the water flow as needed. A watering can is an easy way to tote water to hard-to-reach pots and containers.
while working in the soil. That puts pressure on the back and knees. A comfortable garden kneeler with memory foam or one made from shock-absorbing material can reduce aches and pains.
8. Garden hoe: Garden hoes till soil, remove weeds and perform many other tasks. A garden hoe can be used along with a full-sized shovel, trowel and garden rake.
This list is just the tip of the garden tool iceberg. Visit a garden center and speak with a professional about other tools that can be added to the mix.
Did You Know?
The market research experts at Business Research Insights report that the three-season sunroom market size is projected to nearly double between 2025 and 2035. BRI reports that 65 percent of homeowners prefer cost-effective sunrooms when seeking to extend their living space. The popularity of sunrooms can be traced to a number of variables, including year-
round access to a home’s surrounding landscape. That access might be hindered if the only space to experience nature is a patio, deck or another traditional type of outdoor living space. But sunrooms, particularly those equipped with heating and cooling, can bring homeowners in touch with nature during times of year when they might otherwise be compelled to steer clear of their outdoor living spaces due to less welcoming weather.
5.
7. Garden kneeler: Gardeners often bend and kneel
Spring Lawn Revitalization Strategy For Homeowners
New growth is a hallmark of spring, whether it plays out in the birth of birds and bunnies or with the returned buds on trees and plant stalks. While most greenery rebounds naturally, lawns may need a little extra TLC in order to return to their once lush, green glory.
Revitalizing a lawn in spring is a multifaceted process but can be well worth the reward when green grass adds to a beautiful landscape and functional yard. Here is how to get started when the weather warms, courtesy of The Farmer’s Almanac and The Home Depot.
• Clean up debris. Spend a few hours raking up leaves from the lawn and removing any other winter debris like twigs so that air can reach the grass below. Also remove any thatch that has developed.
• Test the soil. Take a sample of the soil to determine its pH level and nutrient needs. Then you can make adjustments to set a strong foundation for the lawn to grow.
• Do some weeding. Pull out any weeds that have poked through early on and apply a pre-emergent
herbicide to prevent additional weeds from taking over.
• Start the aeration process. A core aerator punches holes into the soil. This enables air and water to penetrate through to the roots.
• Overseed the lawn. Apply grass seeds over the lawn, paying special attention to
any bare or thin areas so that the seed will fill in the lawn.
• Water consistently. It is important to water the lawn deeply and consistently, especially when the weather is dry, to help promote strong root development.
• Time fertilizer correctly. Apply a spring fertilizer around three weeks after the lawn starts to turn green or after the first two or three mowings. If fertilizer is applied too early it can feed
weeds instead of the grass and result in fertilizer runoff.
• Mow to an appropriate height. Begin to mow when the ground is dry enough and the grass is long enough to need cutting. Leave some length to the lawn; otherwise, sunlight will reach the soil and encourage weed seeds to germinate.
With a little elbow grease at the start of spring, homeowners can establish strong and healthy lawns.
How To Corral A Crabgrass Infestation
A well-manicured lawn adds undeniable curb appeal to a property. Homeowners who take pride in their lawns should know that they can take that pride all the way to the bank, as investing in a pristine lawn can provide a significant return at resale.
A recent report from the real estate experts at HomeLight found that a $268 investment in lawn care service can add $1,211 at resale. That’s a 352 percent return on investment.
Homeowners can capitalize on a pristine lawn even further by tending to their own lawns. Crabgrass is one lawn problem that can compromise the look of an otherwise lush lawn. Thankfully, crabgrass can be controlled without much effort.
Identifying Crabgrass
Crabgrass is a weed that grows in areas of a lawn that are bare or where the grass is thin. Crabgrass gets its name from its appearance, as it grows from the center outward and mimics the look of crab legs emerging from the center shell.
The Growth of Crabgrass
The University of Minnesota Extension notes that crabgrass is an annual plant. That means a crabgrass infestation that’s problematic once the mercury rises in the summer will die out in late fall or early winter. But crabgrass germinates in the
spring, so homeowners will want to take steps to prevent it long before it becomes an eyesore in summer.
How to Corral Crabgrass
The UME notes that application of a pre-emergent herbicide before crabgrass seeds can germinate is an effective way to eliminate it. The timing of that application can be tricky, as jumping the gun and applying the herbicide too early can prove fruitless. The same goes for applying herbicides too late. Crabgrass will likely still grow if the herbicide is applied too early or too late. UME recommends applying a preemergent herbicide when soil temperatures approach 55 F.
Home Depot notes that a chemical treatment may be applied after crabgrass has already grown in, but this option requires careful application to avoid killing surrounding healthy grass. Crabgrass can be pulled out by hand, but such an approach can be physically daunting. That’s especially so because crabgrass thrives when the weather is hot and dry. So homeowners who intend to pull crabgrass by hand can decrease their risk of dehydration or heatrelated illness by drinking plenty of water and pulling the grass during early morning or evening hours when the sun is lower and temperatures are more mild. Crabgrass can compromise the look of an otherwise healthy lawn. But various strategies can eliminate crabgrass and restore a lawn without much effort on the part of homeowners.
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Did You Know?
Patios continue to be more popular than decks. According to a tabulation of data from HUD/Census Bureau Survey of Construction from the National Association of Home Builders, the share of new homes with patios is on the rise while the share with decks remains low. The NAHB tabulation found that the percentage of new homes with decks was 17.6 percent in 2023, while the percentage of new homes with patios reached a record high of 63.7 percent in that same year.
Though some homes feature both a deck and patio, the NAHB notes that’s the case in just 6 percent of properties. However, decks have remained a go-to choice in certain regions of the United States. For example, the NAHB reports that 76 percent of new homes in New England featured decks while just 17 percent featured patios. Decks (42 percent) also proved more popular than patios (20 percent) in the mid-Atlantic region.
As winter slowly winds down, many gardeners cannot wait to soak up the springtime sun and get their hands dirty in the garden. Such excitement is not just good for gardeners, but can benefit the garden in the months to come as well.
Late winter or early spring is a great time to get a head start on the gardening season. Even if gardening season is still around the corner, completing the following projects can ensure your garden gets off on the right foot.
• Clear debris. One of the best things you can do for your garden as winter winds down is to clear it of debris. Winter can be especially harsh on a landscape, and gardens left to the elements are often filled with debris once spring arrives. Dead leaves, fallen branches, rocks that surfaced during the winter frost, and even garbage that might have blown about in winter winds can all pile up in a garden over a typical winter. Clearing such debris likely won’t take long, but it’s a great first step toward restoring the garden before the time
comes to plant and grow the garden once again.
• Examine the soil. Soil plays a significant role in whether a garden thrives or struggles. Examining the soil before the season starts can help gardeners address any issues before they plant. Ignoring the soil until a problem arises can turn the upcoming gardening season into a lost opportunity, so test the soil to determine if it has any nutrient or mineral deficiencies. This may require the help of a professional, but if a problem arises, you might be able to adjust the acidity or alkalinity of the soil and still enjoy a successful gardening season.
Another way to examine the soil is less complex but can shed light on when would be a good time to get back to work. Reach into the soil and dig out a handful. If the soil quickly crumbles, you can start preparing for gardening seasoning. But if the soil is still clumped together, it needs more time to dry out before you can begin your prep work.
• Initiate edging. Edging is another task gardeners can
begin as they get ready for the season. Edge plant and flower beds, but be sure to use a spade with a flat blade or an edger designed to edge
flowerbeds. Such tools will cut deep enough so grass roots that may eventually grow into the flowerbed are severed. Depending on how
large a garden is, edging can be a time-consuming task, so getting a head start allows homeowners to spend more time planting and tending to their gardens once the season hits full swing.
• Fight weeds. Though weeds likely have not survived the winter, that does not mean they won’t return once the weather starts to heat up. But as inevitable as weeds may seem, homeowners can take steps to prevent them from turning beautiful gardens into battlegrounds where plants, flowers and vegetables are pitted against unsightly and potentially harmful weeds. Spring is a good time to apply a pre-emergent weed preventer, which can stop weeds before they grow. Though such solutions are not always foolproof, they can drastically reduce the likelihood of weed growth. Though gardeners might not be able to start planting their gardens in late winter or early spring, they can still get outside and take steps to ensure their gardens thrive once planting season begins.
Six Reasons To Consider Installing A Retaining Wall In Your Yard
Homes are not always located on flat lots. In fact, landscapes can feature hills and valleys, necessitating some extra steps when installing certain features. Retaining walls are often utilized to improve the functionality and safety of a property.
Retaining walls are typically recommended to eliminate soil erosion and improve drainage, says Design One Landscape Corporation. Over time, soil erosion or drainage issues can eat into
the structural integrity of a home and cause cosmetic damage and unhealthy conditions, such as mold growth. Here’s a look at six instances when installing a retaining wall can be advantageous.
1. Remedy a slope in the yard: Retaining walls help make sloped areas functional. The wall will help flatten the slope so that water and soil do not flow downward.
2. Make the yard easier to traverse: A retaining wall can make it easier to walk around
a sloped yard. Rather than contending with the hill both uphill and downhill, particularly if it’s steep, the retaining wall can be installed to create flat areas that are easier to navigate.
3. Manage water runoff: Retaining walls can hold back or redirect water to help prevent flooding. A wall can be used to keep water away from the foundation, where it may enter the home.
4. Prevent soil erosion: Along with keeping water back, the retaining wall also will stop soil erosion and runoff so it doesn’t cause an unsightly condition in the yard, or prove dangerous during severe weather.
5. Prevent sink holes: By helping to manage water runoff, retaining walls can reduce the risk of sinkholes. According to Slaton Bros, Inc., a retaining wall service provider, sinkholes occur when enough water pools beneath the surface of the ground to weaken it to the point of not being capable of supporting the ground’s surface weight.
6. Improve curb appeal: Retaining walls also may serve cosmetic functions. They provide additional surfaces upon which to place container plants or additional decorations. Retaining walls also can provide backdrops to shrubs and separate grassy areas from patios or swimming pools.
Retaining walls marry form and function. Homeowners with sloped yards or drainage issues should consider installing retaining walls to address these issues.
Did You Know?
Landscape lighting has become increasingly popular in recent years. Such lighting can extend living spaces, and many homeowners report that a well-lit landscape helps them feel more safe at home. Though the final cost to light up a home’s exterior will depend on the size of a property, landscape lighting is among the more budget-friendly home renovations homeowners can consider.
According to the renovation experts at Angi.com, the average cost of a landscape lighting project is $4,000. Considering how much landscape lighting transforms the look of a property at night, that’s a lot of bang for homeowners’ bucks. Solar lights are popular, but homeowners may want to consider electrical wiring that ensures lights maintain their awe-inspiring glow throughout the night. Electrical work requires additional labor, and thus a higher price tag.
However, Angi notes that modern LED bulbs consume just 25 percent of the energy used by incandescent alternatives, which can make them a more reliable option than self-installed solar lights.
Decorating For Spring At Home
Decorating for Spring: Fresh Ideas to Renew Your Home Before Yardwork Calls
Ah, spring — longer days, warmer sunshine, and that irresistible urge to refresh everything in your home. Before the yardwork starts calling your name next month, now is the perfect moment to give your interior a vibrant and welcoming update. Here’s how to make your spaces feel refreshed, stylish and season-ready without a full remodel.
Start with a Clean Slate
— Declutter & Reboot
Spring decorating begins with letting go. Take time to clear out old accessories, excess décor and items that no longer bring you joy. Sort decorations, furniture accents and textiles into keep, donate, recycle or store piles — one room at a time.
Removing clutter creates a feeling of openness and calm and makes room for fresh design choices that reflect spring’s light spirit. Organized spaces instantly look brighter and more inviting — and your home will feel like it just breathed a sigh of relief.
Refresh Colors & Textures for Spring
Seasonal decorating does not have to be dramatic — simple updates can make a big impact. Introduce soft, uplifting hues like tranquil teals, warm ochres and light greens to brighten walls, pillows and décor elements. Swap out heavy winter fabrics for breathable linen, cotton or lighter-knit throws. Placing textiles in fresh tones sets a vibrant tone for spring. Using thoughtful color and texture can make any room feel more playful, energizing and welcoming.
New Window Treatments — A Fresh Frame for Your View
One of the easiest ways to update a room is by upgrading your window treatments. Custom window treatments can be designed and made to balance beauty and function. Options may include sheer curtains that let in warm natural light, lightfiltering shades that
soften the sun’s rays, or motorized blinds for effortless control of light and privacy.
These upgrades not only change the look of your windows — they enhance the entire mood of a room, making it feel fresh and renewed as the seasons change.
Area Rugs and Artwork — Define & Delight
Spring décor is all about creating inspiring spaces, and area rugs and artwork are powerful tools for transformation. Choose a vibrant rug with a bold pattern or soft pastel palette to anchor your living area and bring the floor to life. Bring walls into the season with artwork that reflects freshness and movement, whether abstract landscapes, botanical prints or lightinfused compositions. These elements add personality and depth without heavy lifting or long renovation timelines.
Accessories & Small Details — Big Impact, Small Effort
It’s the little touches that truly bring spring indoors. Place fresh flowers or greenery throughout the home to echo the awakening outdoors. Swap candles for lighter scents and opt for decorative trays, ceramic vases or mirrored accents that reflect light and harmony.
Seasonal décor pieces not only add charm but also help define your home’s personality in new and unexpected ways. Get It
Before the Yardwork Starts Spring is short, and once the grass starts growing, weekends quickly fill up. Take advantage of these quieter days now to refresh your interior before the garden calls your attention. Whether you’re contemplating a cozy seasonal update or a full-style refresh, now is a great time to begin planning for the season ahead.
Tips To Make A Yard Less Attractive To Ticks
Backyards are ideal places to spend warm afternoons soaking up some sun. Lazy days in the yard are a big part of what makes warm
weather seasons like spring and summer so appealing. But those afternoons can quickly go off the rails when an unwelcome visitor makes its presence known.
Ticks can be found throughout the world, but the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention notes that only a select few types of ticks transmit bacteria, viruses and parasites, or pathogens,
that cause diseases in people. But even if the number of tick species that transmit diseases to humans is relatively low, ticks that can infect humans are a notable threat. Such ticks carry pathogens that the CDC notes can cause a number of diseases, including Bourbon virus, Ehrlichiosis and, of course, Lyme disease, among others.
Human beings can come into contact with ticks in their own backyards. But humans can take various steps to make their lawns less welcoming to ticks.
• Cut your grass short and keep it that way. Blacklegged ticks are transmitters of Lyme disease, which the CDC notes is the most
common vector-borne disease in the United States. Lyme disease also poses a growing threat in Canada, where data from the Public Health Agency indicates human-reported Lyme disease cases increased from 144 in 2009 to more than 2,100 in 2022. Blacklegged ticks do not like environments that are dry and hot, so short grass makes lawns less attractive to this type of tick. Consumer Reports advises homeowners who have let their grass grow a little too high (around five or six inches) to bag their clippings when cutting the grass. Lots of clippings on the grass can provide a respite from the heat for black-legged ticks.
• Create a tick barrier if
your property abuts woods. Woods provide a cover from summer heat that blacklegged ticks crave. So properties that abut the woods may be more vulnerable to these unwanted guests than yards that do not border woodlands. A barrier of dry mulch made of wood chips between a property and a bordering wooded area can help repel ticks, who won’t want to settle in often dry, hot mulch beds.
others create less welcoming conditions for ticks. Homeowners can speak with local garden centers for advice on tick-repellant plants that can thrive in their particular climate and on their properties.
• Plant with infestation prevention in mind. Some plants can help to repel ticks because they boast certain characteristics that ticks cannot tolerate. The fragrances, textures and oils of plants like garlic, mint, lavender, marigolds, and
• Remove yard debris. Piles of wood, leaves and brush can make for good conditions for ticks that transmit disease. After raking leaves and gathering brush, discard the resulting piles immediately. These measures will not necessarily prevent all ticks from establishing themselves on a property, so individuals are urged to inspect their bodies and the bodies of their pets after a day in the yard.
Choosing The Right Outdoor Furniture For Long-Term Enjoyment
Outdoor living is growing by leaps and bounds. According to The Spruce, 62 percent of homeowners planned to invest in their outdoor spaces in 2024, believing these areas would enhance their happiness. However, not everyone is using their outdoor living areas to their potential.
A 2024 survey by the International Casual Furnishings Association indicated that only 18 percent of consumers were using their outdoor living spaces as much as they desired.
Ninety-four percent mentioned they would spend more time outdoors after updating their spaces. Common upgrades included lighting, decorative elements and, of course, furniture — with lounge chairs and chaises topping homeowners’ desires.
When seeking out new outdoor furniture, shoppers should keep the following buying guidelines in mind.
Determine the Size of Your Space
Before buying anything, it’s essential to measure the space. This will give you an idea of how much area you have to fill. A big furniture set can overrun a small
living area. Conversely, having too little furniture or items that are diminutive in nature can be swallowed up by a large space.
Consider the Surface Material
You’ll need to adjust your purchases according to what is underfoot. Furniture stability and weathering can be affected if there is grass underneath. A more stable surface like concrete or pavers should be beneath furnishings.
Think About the Climate
Certain materials will hold up better in different weather
conditions. In hot and dry climates, you want heatresistant materials like synthetic wicker or aluminum. If it’s rainy and humid, teak, synthetic resin, powder-coated steel, and eucalyptus are good options. If the furniture will remain out in cold or snowy conditions, teak and treated metals offer superior endurance.
Establish Your Budget
Shop around to determine prices and then set your budget accordingly. Mix high and low priced items to balance budgets. For example, you can splurge on
a durable teak table and pair it with synthetic wicker chairs, which are a midrange seating option.
Select Durable Fabrics No matter the climate,
choosing weather-resistant fabrics with UV protection will alleviate fading and degradation from the sun.
Furniture that features removable and washable covers also offers con-
venience when it comes time to clean.
Invest in Storage
Consider the shape and size of the furniture and then plan accordingly for storage. Invest in covers for rainy and wintry seasons. Otherwise, select modular furniture that can be moved indoors to sheds or garages.
Add Creature Comforts
Incorporate outdoor rugs and decorative lighting to make the spaces seem cozy. Side tables offer places to keep drinks or set a book down. Also, don’t overlook the extra comfort that privacy screens and throw pillows can bring to outdoor living spaces.
The right outdoor furniture can set a scene for beautiful, comfortable and well-considered outdoor enjoyment.
“We
Harvest
There’s nothing quite like harvesting fresh vegetables from your backyard garden. But before you can harvest them, you have to have everything ready so they will grow. Here are a few steps to help you get ready for the spring vegetable garden season.
Location, location, location. Vegetables need a lot of sun, so look for a location that isn’t shady now and won’t be in the future. In fact, the more direct sun, the
better. Vegetables such as lettuce, cabbage, carrots and turnips can get by with some shade, but okra, beans, tomatoes, peppers, squash and melons need eight to 10 hours of direct sun in order to be healthy. Preparation, preparation, preparation. Rich and highly organic soil is the best garden soil around. Your soil will need work unless you have been adding compost from the previous gardens you have planted. Before you plant, add rotted barnyard manure and finished compost to enrich the soil.
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Soil ph is a very important factor in growing vegetables. Most vegetables grow best in soil that has a ph of 6.0 to 6.5. If you notice poor growth and low yields, chances are you have acidic soil. To raise the ph to an acceptable level, you need to add lime. How much you need to add depends on your soil type and the soil’s actual ph level. Rather than guess about your soil, have it tested at a soil testing lab. Check with your cooperative extension office on how to submit your sample. Take random samples from your garden and mix them
together for the test. The report will tell you exactly what and how much you need to add.
Variety, variety, variety. There are dozens of varieties to choose from. Keep in mind that what has a high yield in Michigan may not do well in Texas, so you need to find out what kinds of vegetables grow best in your area. Check with your local county extension office for the varieties that work best in your local conditions. If you don’t have a country extension office close by, ask someone who has been gardening for a while what they recommend.
Timing, timing, timing. The right variety of vegetables needs to be planted at the right time. Most crops need to mature before the oncoming hot weather, with the exception of okra, sweet potatoes and southern peas which require warmer
weather. That means planting everything as soon as possible. Plant crops sensitive to frost such as beans, corn and watermelons just after the date of the last freeze. Tomatoes can be planted before then, but you will need to protect them from frost. Before planting the seeds of warm season vegetables, it is a good idea to wait until the soil temperature is in the upper 60s or low 70s. This is especially true of peppers.
Growing fresh vegetables is all well and good, but how do the vegetables you grow keep you healthy?
• Beets are high in antioxidant, fiber and folate content. By eating beets, you may reduce your risk of some forms of cancer and heart disease.
• Cabbage and other members of the cabbage family, such as broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, are
loaded with beta-carotene, vitamin C, fiber and other minerals.
• Garlic and onions have been shown to reduce blood pressure, reduce the risk of developing some forms of cancer and add flavor to a meal.
• Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C, potassium and fiber. They are also low in calories.
• Spinach, chard, collards and kale are a good source of beta-carotene and the chlorophyll in them has shown signs of reducing cancer. These vegetables have a better flavor when they are fresh.
You have been looking forward to getting out there and starting that spring vegetable planting for months now. By taking the proper steps at the beginning, you can get an impressive harvest that will be the envy of all other gardeners.
and young animals can be seen frolicking with their parents. During a time when it seems like the entire planet gets a refresh, many homeowners turn their thoughts to refreshing their homes as well.
As the days lengthen and the weather warms, spring cleaning takes center stage. Spring cleaning is more extensive than simply washing away grime, as cleaning a home often offers a psychological reset for the coming months. A clear strategy can make the task of spring cleaning feel less daunting, and these tips can help cut down on clutter and other interior annoyances that have arisen after months spent indoors.
Declutter Before Cleaning
The rule of thumb when starting on spring cleaning is to combat clutter before cleaning. Trying to clean around clutter is inefficient and may result in throwing in the towel prematurely. It is important to remove as much as possible from
each room before you begin cleaning. As homeowners move through each room, they can assess whether they’ve used items in the last year or whether they serve any functional or aesthetic purposes. If not, they can be trashed or donated.
Move Top to Bottom
It’s important to follow the rules of science when spring cleaning. That means that dust and debris will be affected by gravity. Engaging
in a top-down approach will help make cleaning more efficient. Beginning at the ceiling and working down towards the floors will help people avoid having to clean the same surface twice.
Using a duster or a microfiber cloth, individuals can clear cobwebs from corners and dust from crown molding. Fingerprints will accumulate near light switches and door handles, so those areas should be
wiped down, too.
Homeowners can conduct a thorough cleaning of heating and cooling output and intake vents as they likely have gathered dust over the winter. A down of floor moldings can get to any
area near the floor or under furniture that doesn’t get frequent cleaning.
Do a Kitchen Reset
Focusing attention on the kitchen, which tends to be the busiest room in the
house, is a wise idea for spring cleaning plans. This is the time for individuals to pull everything out of the refrigerator and pantry and check for expiration dates. Wiping down the shelves means cleaning away any accumulated food drips or spills. Additional areas to consider include behind the refrigerator, inside the dishwasher filter and inside the microwave.
Focus on Air Quality
It’s key to replace the HVAC system filters come springtime, as well as any air purifiers in the home. This will help reduce allergens and ensure that the cooling system will run efficiently when it’s time to turn it on.
Spring cleaning takes place each year. Prioritizing decluttering and following a systematic path through the home helps people eliminate stress and mess at the same time.
Aeration Breathes New Life Into Lawns
Regular maintenance is necessary when caring for a lawn, and various strategies translate into thicker, greener and healthier grass. Much like car owners routinely get an oil change or tire rotation on their vehicles, homeowners should recognize that certain lawn care strategies are periodically necessary to keep a property looking its best. Aeration is one task that can complement other lawn care strategies throughout the growing season.
What is Lawn Aeration?
The Home Depot says that aeration involves making holes in the lawn to loosen the soil underneath. Over time, the lawn and soil can become compacted, creating a layer of thatch that forms between the soil and the grass in the lawn. Thatch can prevent air, water and fertilizer from reaching the roots of the grass, eventually stifling growth. The holes made during aeration allow oxygen, water and nutrients to reach the lawn’s roots.
When to Aerate Aeration can be good for a lawn, but it can cause stress to the grass if timed improperly, advise the lawn care experts at Pennington. Cool-season grasses common in northern lawns should be aerated in the
early fall or early spring. Warm-season grasses should be aerated in the late spring or very early summer. Aeration should be done right before the grass reaches peak time for natural growth.
How to Aerate a Lawn
Homeowners can use different aeration equipment, including manual and automated machinery. Some homeowners wear spiked aerator “sandals” strapped to shoes to walk across the lawn. These may be useful on a small scale, but not on larger properties.
Slicing aerators have rotating blades that slice through grass and thatch into the soil. Core or plug aerators often are preferential for lawn professionals. Hollow tines remove plugs of soil from the lawn and deposit them on top where they break down.
What’s Next?
According to The Spruce, it is necessary to water the grass every two to three days after a lawn has been aerated. This also is the time to perform overseeding. Apply a quality, slowrelease fertilizer to revitalize the lawn. Wait at least a month before mowing, and avoid heavy traffic on the lawn after aerating to prevent grass damage.
Aeration is an important step to maintain lawn health. While aerating can be laborintensive, the end result of a lush lawn can be worth the extra effort.
The Facts About Insulation And Home Efficiency
Insulation can go a long way toward making a home more comfortable. Insulation reduces the transfer of heat from indoors and outdoors so homes stay more comfortable in both the winter and summer. Insulation also can block exterior noise. A properly insulated home is a must, particularly in the wake of rising energy costs. Insulation will help a home be more energy efficient. Insulation is easily taken for granted. The following are some facts about insulation and home efficiency that illustrate how much homeowners can benefit from upgrading their insulation.
• Insulation is made from a variety of materials, including fiberglass, wool, cellulose, and spray foam.
• Unless damaged, insulation lasts for the life of the building. Some settling of insulation may occur, particularly with loosefill type insulation, and gaps can be filled in.
• During the Middle Ages, walls of homes were stuffed with straw and mud to help keep out the cold. It is one of the first documented types of insulation.
• According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, insulation saves more than 600 times more energy each year than
compact fluorescent lights, Energy Star Appliances, and Energy Star windows combined.
• For every BTU consumed in the production of insulation each year, 12 BTUs are saved by the use of insulation, says A+ Insulation of Kansas City.
• An insulating material’s resistance to heat flow is measured in terms of its thermal resistance, or R-value. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating effectiveness. An insulation contractor can let a homeowner know how much insulation and what R-value is recommended for his or her climate.
• Manufacturers continue
to experiment with insulation materials. Environmentally friendly options include recycled cotton denim, paper or plant cellulose, and sheep’s wool.
• Large pieces of insulation are called batts. Traditionally they are made from pink fiberglass, which is extremely fine woven glass.
It’s important to realize fiberglass insulation can release small particles or fibers in the air when disturbed, so respiratory protection and gloves should be used when handling to reduce risk of irritation.
Insulation is a key investment in home comfort and efficiency.
An Outdoor Remodel
Outdoor living spaces have become sought-after commodities among homeowners. A 2022 survey of homeowners conducted by the New Home Trends Institute found that open
yards are less appealing to home buyers than they once were. The survey noted that just 28 percent of respondents chose open yards, while 65 percent preferred patios and 55 percent chose decks. Green spaces remain popular, but the survey indicates that many would-be home buyers also want an outdoor living area to make the most of their home exteriors.
Homeowners aspiring to transform their home exterior spaces typically must decide between a deck or pavers when the time comes to plan such areas. That’s a
personal choice homeowners must make, but those without strong feelings on either option can consider these tips as they try to decide if a deck or pavers are for them.
• Determine your budget. Budget is a notable variable with any home renovation project, and the addition of an outdoor living space is no exception. The materials homeowners choose will ultimately determine the cost of each project. For example, composite decking materials tend to cost significantly more than wood decks, but that higher price tag also comes with less maintenance and typically a longer life span. Pavers may prove less expensive than composite decking, but those cost
savings may be negligible if a yard requires extensive excavation to prepare an area for a new patio. It requires patience, but gathering estimates of the various materials can serve as a good starting point when planning an outdoor living space. In addition, homeowners must recognize that material costs can fluctuate considerably over time, as such prices are often contingent on a range of variables, including supply chain issues. So it’s best to gather estimates in a short period of time to make the most accurate price comparisons.
• Identify your vision for the space. Homeowners who have a vision for their outdoor living space, even if they are not sure about
which material they prefer, may find the process goes more quickly and even more smoothly than those who are unsure about what they want. Those who prefer a flexible multiuse space may be best going with pavers, as the spaces can be easily converted and areas simply designated as one might differentiate between rooms inside the home. For example, an outdoor living room can be separated with the installation of a pavillion and fireplace, while kitchen and dining areas can be separate spaces on the same patio. Decks tend to be less flexible, which might make them ideal for homeowners who prefer an outdoor dining area but don’t need a more expansive entertaining
space. Of course, decks can be as big as homeowners choose, which can make the spaces more multi-functional.
• Recognize both may be in your best interest. Homeowners also should know that many outdoor living spaces feature both a deck and a paver patio. Homeowners may like an elevated deck that steps down to a patio, which can easily distinguish between the spaces and establish the area as a multifunctional space. Homeowners planning outdoor living space projects may find themselves choosing between a deck and pavers. Each option can work, and homeowners may even want to combine the two.
Landscape Lighting Options To Brighten Up Your Property At Night
Landscape lighting has been growing in popularity, and industry experts anticipate that growth will continue for years to come. According to the market research firm Technavio, the market size for outdoor landscape lighting is estimated to grow by nearly $133 million between 2024 and 2028. That growth is evident in data sheets, but it’s also visible to the naked eye, as more and more property owners are utilizing outdoor landscape lighting to increase security and draw attention to their lawns and various features on them.
Homeowners considering adding landscape lighting to their properties may be overwhelmed by the options at their disposal. Indeed, there are many ways for homeowners to accentuate landscape features and create a stunning nighttime look. The following rundown of landscape lighting options can illuminate the many different ways homeowners can use light to make their properties more appealing at night.
• Spotlights: Spotlights are among the more popular landscape lighting options. Spotlights are used by fans of uplighting, which places the light beneath a particular feature and then aims light upward to draw attention to it. Many homeowners utilize spotlights and uplighting to illuminate statues and trees.
• Step lights: Step lights help to make moving around a property at night more safe. Step lights are installed on the vertical face of the step or along the sides of each step. Homeowners who have a deck may find step lights particularly useful, especially if the deck is multilevel and/or attached to a staircase that leads down into a yard.
• Floodlights: Floodlights are a type of spotlight that are generally used to illuminate large areas, such as a driveway or a deck. Floodlights illuminate from above, so these typically are best for lighting up manmade portions of a home’s exterior rather than natural features like trees or gardens.
• Garden lights: Garden
lights direct light downward toward a garden. These provide a soft light that can draw attention to plants at dusk and throughout the night. Many homeowners
like the sense of serenity garden lights help to create during twilight and evening hours.
• Path lights: Similar to step lights, path lights
typically are installed as a safety feature. But path lights still boast aesthetic appeal, as they help to light up walkways and driveways without providing a burst of
light that can feel overwhelming for residents and visitors. Path lights come in a variety of styles and sizes, so homeowners can experiment with their options to find the one that best suits their needs.
• Ground lighting: Ground lighting is like recessed lighting inside a home, only these lights are placed in the ground and send light upward rather than downward from a ceiling. Ground lighting fixtures are often installed in gardens, directing light upward toward shrubs or trees.
Homeowners can illuminate their home exteriors in numerous ways, each of which can add to a property’s aesthetic appeal at night.
