Homes&Design
MAY 2022
Home Services Home Furnishings Home Improvements Home Decor Real Estate & Rentals
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HOMES & DESIGN
MAY 2022
Kitchens • Baths Cabinets • Countertops Flooring
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MAY 2022
HOMES & DESIGN
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Five exterior home upgrades that deliver a return on investment Want to make some serious exterior home upgrades that improve your safety and comfort, add beauty to your home and deliver a return on your investment? Here are five projects that do just that: 1. Install storm doors: Storm doors give you the option of letting in more light and ventilation on fair weather days, while protecting your entry door from harsh conditions and weathering. There are many ways to customize this upgrade to meet your aesthetic and functional needs. Options from ProVia include retractable screens at the top and bottom for more venting options, as well as stylish designs and colors for instant curb appeal. Families might want to consider storm doors featuring heavy-duty, non-removable stainless steel screens ideal for keeping children and pets safely inside. 2. Get summer-ready: Extend your home’s outdoor living area just in time for summer -- plus substantially increase your home value -- with the addition of a deck, patio or porch. Whether you add a small hibachi grill or get as involved as installing a full outdoor kitchen, be sure to include an area to prepare and enjoy meals. A few key touches, like string lights and potted plants, along with cozy furniture, can make the space feel homey. 3. Replace patio doors: If your patio doors are drafty or get stuck easily, it may be time for an ENERGY STAR-certified replacement. Endure sliding glass patio doors from ProVia come standard with ComforTech Warm Edge Glazing, a high-tech glass package that measurably improves thermal performance for greater efficiency and reduced interior condensation. These doors also have increased sound abatement and meet the most stringent industry standards for storm protection, ease of entry and forced entry. Additionally, options for interior woodgrain and exterior paint colors,
varying internal grid styles and patterns, and multiple choices for decorative glass, internal blinds and hardware allow for customization to fit your personal aesthetic. 4. Lower bills: Did you know that you can lower your bills and add natural beauty and privacy to your property by planting trees strategically? In summer, the shade that trees create can help keep your home cool. In winter, they can help block wind and prevent drafts. The Utah State University Forest Extension recommends locating trees no closer than 2.5 times their mature height to the south of a building to avoid winter shading. They also suggest knowing the size and other characteristics of a particular species before planting to avoid future problems, such as hitting power lines. 5. Protect your home: If you live in an area prone to extreme weather -- heavy rain, hail, driving wind, frigid temperatures, or scorching heat -- your home needs protection against the elements. CedarMAX insulated vinyl siding provides defense against these harsh conditions and improves energy efficiency as well. The insulation contributes to the rigidity of the panel, increases durability, and provides five times greater impact resistance over hollow siding, protecting against damage by hail, high winds, or contact with your child’s fastball. Color and beauty are also huge factors in this home improvement decision; CedarMAX offers many options to customize the look with both neutral and bold colors and coordinated accessories. It’s resistant to fading, chalking, cracking, peeling, and thermal expansion and contraction, making it a sound investment for years to come. It’s important to see a tangible return on larger home upgrades. The best projects to consider are those that increase your home value, save you money, and add beauty and comfort to your home.
The best projects to consider are those that increase your home value, save you money, and add beauty and comfort to your home.
(STATEPOINT)
METRO CREATIVE PHOTO Homes & Design
Comfort Solutions can make your home comfy
For affordable heating and air conditioning service, choose Comfort Solutions Heating & A/C. You always get prompt, personable service. We care for your home like it was our own. We employ experienced, local technicians and, when it comes to heating and air conditioning, Comfort Solutions Heating & A/C is the name to remember. Our company has been in business for seven years, and we have 25 years of experience in the heating and cooling industry. Our company is locally and family owned and operated, so you can count on friendly, personable service. We charge by the hour, not by the job, and there’s no trip fee within 25 miles. Ask how you can save with our senior, firefighter, and military discounts. Our customers recommend us highly and refer others to us. Certifications and memberships * ACCA Certified (Air Conditioning Contractors of America) * NATE Certified (North American
HOMES & DESIGN
May 2022 Published by Rock Valley Publishing LLC 1102 Ann St. Delavan, WI 53115 262-728-3411
Technician Excellence) * EPA Certified (Environmental Protection Agency) * Certified Electrician * Certified in Illinois and Wisconsin * Official Hometown Bryant Dealer * Bryant Certified Warranty Dealer
Heating units and parts We offer a wide variety of Heat Units to meet your home heating needs * Boilers * Furnaces * Geothermal * Heat pumps * Radiant in-floor heating * Radiators We also carry all the parts to keep your new or existing heating unit running * Blowers * Fans * Filters * Motors * Sensors * Exchanger * Burner and pilot assemblies * Electrical and safety components
HVAC maintenance nd home automation It’s important to have your HVAC units services regularly to insure they will be running for years to come * A/C service and repair * Freon checks * Freon leak detection and repair * Inspections * Maintenance calls * Seasonal clean and checks * Check drains * Clean the coils Interested in improving the air quality in your home? Being in the middle of cold, influenza, and virus season, we have the solution for you * Indoor air purifiers * Electronic air purifiers * Media air purifiers * Ionizers * Humidifiers * Dehumidifiers * UV Lights Comfort Solutions can also offer you the most up to date thermostat systems that meet your home automation needs.
Homes & Design
Air conditioner units and parts We carry the A/C units to keep your family cool all summer long. * Central air * Roof units * Thermostats * Ductless Split Systems We have a complete inventory of parts to keep your A/C unit running * Blowers * Compressors * Exhaust fans * Filters * Heat sinks * Thermostats Contact Us Business Hours Monday-Friday: 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday: 24-hour emergency service Sunday: 24-hour emergency service Same-day and 24/7 emergency services are available. Comfort Solutions Heating and Air Conditioning is located at 130 Cross Dr., Poplar Grove, IL, 61065, Tel: 815-218-6271 Email: keithanders7@live.com
For advertising opportunities, call (262) 725-7701, ext. 134, or emaill vicki@southernlakesnewspapers.com EDITOR IN CHIEF: Edward Nadolski SPECIAL SECTIONS: Melanie Bradley CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Heather Ruenz ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Vicki Vanderwerff PAGE DESIGNER: Jen DeGroot
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HOMES & DESIGN
MAY 2022
Comfort Solutions Heating & Air Conditioning
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Land speed meets Landlandscape. speed
MAY 2022
HOMES & DESIGN
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meets landscape.
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ased on speeds published on company websites as of 11/08/2021 for the following 52"- 54" zero-turn models: Gravely Pro-Turn ZX, Scag Patriot, Exmark Radius S Series, HD 2000 Series, Hustler Fastrak SDX and John Deere ZTrak. © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2022. This material is for descriptive purposes only. Kubota disclaims all ations and warranties, express or implied, or any liability from the use of this material. For complete warranty, safety, incentive offer and product information, consult your er or go to KubotaUSA.com.
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KubotaUSA.com *Claim is based on speeds published on company websites as of 11/08/2021 for the following 52”- 54” zero-turn models: Gravely Pro-Turn ZX, Scag Patriot, Exmark Radius S Series, Toro Titan HD 2000 Series, Hustler Fastrak SDX and John Deere ZTrak. © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2022. This material is for descriptive purposes only. Kubota disclaims all representations and warranties, express or implied, or any liability from the use of this material. For complete warranty, safety, incentive offer and product information, consult your local dealer or go to KubotaUSA.com. 417059
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HOMES & DESIGN
MAY 2022
Is remodeling your kitchen on your wish list? Afraid of how much it’ll set you back?
HomeAdvisor puts the average kitchen remodel price in the $12,567 to $34,962 range. However, you can buck the trend of costly, complicated updates. Consider these three renovations, all of which will improve the look and functionality of your kitchen, without costing you thousands of dollars:
Refresh fabrics
Reupholstering just one chair means shelling out $150 to $600, according to HomeGuide. If that’s beyond what you’re willing to pay, but you’re not ready to replace a beloved set of kitchen chairs, you can update their look on a budget and in just a few minutes with stretchable seat covers.
A good choice for families with kids or pets, these covers are typically machinewashable and can be swapped out as often as you like to suit your mood. From geometric designs to citrus vibes to florals, they’re offered in a range of patterns that will look great with any style.
New granite surfaces
Countertops are the most common feature upgraded during kitchen renovations, according to a 2022 Houzz study, which found that nine in 10 remodelers performed this update. The same survey found that 35 percent of homeowners are splurging to make it happen. If you’ve looked into granite countertops, you probably learned that
Luxury granite countertops can be DIY projects completed in just one weekend. STATEPOINT PHOTO Homes & Design
Hull Hardwood Flooring Located in Brodhead, Wis., Hull Hardwood Flooring can make your home beautiful. Call 608-897-4960 or visit their website at wwwhullhardwoodflooring.com to see more. SUBMITTED PHOTO Homes & Design
DP CONCRETE & LANDSCAPING, Inc.
it can cost thousands of dollars and take months to have them custom-made and installed. Adding this touch of luxury to your kitchen doesn’t have to bust your budget, involve contractors or mean supply chain hassles. It can actually be an easy, oneweekend DIY project. Using a LuxROCK Solid Surface Granite Countertop Kit from Daich Coatings, you can transform your countertops and island surfaces at just a fraction of the price of a professional granite countertop installation. For about $300, a kit covers 40 square feet of space. This functional and decorative blend of real stone with stunning mineral highlights can be used to give a smooth appearance to countertops, tables or any other surface. And because the authentic stone surface resists stains, heat and impact and is food safe, it’s a great solution for the kitchen. Each kit includes a prime coat, stone coats, clear epoxy and a clear coat finish, as well as all the tools needed. This revolutionary and exceptionally easy resurfacing project doesn’t require any artistic skills to be a success. Nor does it require technical skills, as sinks, plumbing fixtures and existing countertops don’t need to be removed before application.
If you’re someone who likes the flexibility of changing things up every few years, it’s simple to update granite surface colors using another LuxROCK kit when you’re ready. Both this U.S. patentpending kit and the brand’s textured countertop kits are available online at The Home Depot and Lowe’s.
Optimize your pantry
Pantries are often tucked away, but you can still give them an eye-catching makeover. For fresh pops of color, paint the pantry door and wallpaper the interior. Group items by height, then use customizable shelving to stretch storage real estate. You may also wish to transfer kitchen staples to uniform containers. This will offer a tidier, more visually appealing look, while helping you make better use of limited space. Whether you opt for mason jars, ceramic canisters, or BPA-free plastic cubes, label containers carefully. It’s the heart of the home, but that doesn’t mean you need to break the bank to create your dream kitchen. With ingenuity, you can improve its look and functionality at an affordable price point and in just a weekend.
Buying or selling? Call US first!
Specializing in Concrete Installation & Repair We do projects of all sizes! find us on • • • •
Foundations Decorative Concrete Patios/Porches Driveways
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dp concrete & landscaping
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Brokers/Owners
608.897.9500
elmerteam.cxn@gmail.com Jerry Elmer: 608-558-3015 Ann-Marie Elmer: 608-558-3016
www.realestateconnectionsswi.com
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608-862-3156 - Albany, WI - www.dpconcrete.com davepluss@tds.net - jdpluss@hotmail.com
Jerry & Ann-Marie Elmer
MAY 2022
HOMES & DESIGN
Page 7
Excellence has been Bomar Heating & Cooling’s hallmark since 1974 BoMar Heating & Cooling is a customer focused family owned heating and air-conditioning company that was originally started in 1974. The company was started by Bob and Margaret Rowland and the business name is a combination of their first names. Located in Freeport, IL, we employ highly trained people whose goal is to make our company the best service company in Northwest Illinois. Our company specializes in designing, engineering, and installing complete comfort systems for owners of existing homes and buildings just like yours. We take special pride in the craftsmen we train and employ--a fact you’ll notice immediately in the attitude and integrity they bring to your job site. Our entire company works hard to make your experience with us hasslefree and enjoyable. Should we make a mistake, we will do everything in our power to correct it to your satisfaction. From the professionalism of our comfort consultants, to the dedication of our field personnel, we are dedicated to delivering you the best. We take our responsibility very seriously when you place your trust in us. We pledge to always tell you up front what your cost will be to complete your job correctly. We make it a point to go over any details or limitations of the proposed system that will affect your enjoyment of the end result. You are told exactly what to expect up front. We back this philosophy with our exclusive written guarantee when choosing BoMar Heating & Cooling to contract your job: “If at any time during the first year of installation, you are not 100% satisfied
BoMar Heating & Cooling continues growing with more satisfied customers each and every year. Give them a call for your service needs at 815-233-1622. SUBMITTED PHOTO Homes & Design
with the performance of the equipment, our service or even our people, we will, within 30 days of your request, remove the system and cheerfully refund the entire amount of the contract.” Compare our guarantee with the
limitations, fine print and exclusions other companies tend to use to back their work today. Others will typically guarantee only the functionality of the equipment-not your satisfaction with the process or that the finished job lives up to your
expectations. This is why BoMar Heating & Cooling continues growing with more satisfied customers each and every year. Give us a call for your service needs and see what you’ve been missing.
Footville Rock & Lime: Your source for limestone, decorative stone When you need limestone or other natural materials, the very best place to get them is straight from the quarry in Wisconsin. When you choose Footville Rock & Lime Corporation, that’s exactly what you’ll get: superior quality materials, provided by an honest company. Whether you need agricultural lime for your soil treatment or are improving your residential landscape with quality stone materials, we’re here to help. We’ll even help you spread your rock to make sure it’s applied perfectly. Our full offering of products includes crushed limestone products, agricultural limestone, decorative stones, mulch, sand, dirt, driveway gravel
and more. Why choose Footville Rock & Lime Corporation for limestone and decorative stone in Wisconsin? Simple: we work to deliver the highest quality products at the best prices, and we always treat our customers with the integrity and respect they deserve. We work with you to figure out your exact needs, and we pass along the savings of mining directly from our quarry, meaning you’re going to get exactly what you need at a price you can afford. Take a look at just a few more of the reasons we have so many satisfied customers and why our customers recommend us anytime
there’s a need for limestone, landscaping materials or decorative stone in Wisconsin: We’re a family owned and operated business. We have a wide range of quality products available to customers. We’re pleased to supply residential, commercial and agricultural customers alike. We’re happy to spread rock and limestone for you upon delivery. Our business has been around since 1974! Footville Rock & Lime Corporation is located at 14249 W. Domer Road, Brodhead, Wis. 53520. Call 608-876-6608 for more information.
Pros and cons to open-concept homes Open-concept homes have become increasingly popular in recent years. An open-concept home is one in which the rooms flow into one another with limited obstruction from walls or other barriers. According to the National Association of Home Builders, 84 percent of new singlefamily homes have fully or partially open layouts. While they may seem like a new trend, open floor plans are anything but. Early American homes featured open, often oneor two-room units built around the central kitchen/hearth. This maximized warmth and functionality. Homes evolved as incomes grew, and soon homes had several smaller rooms with specialized functions. What’s old has become new again. However, before diving head first into a new home purchase or a big renovation to realize an open-concept dream, consider the pros and cons of this type of setup to determine if it’s really right for you.
Advantages of open floor plans Open floor plans facilitate the flow of natural light throughout a space and can promote air flow, helping to reduce warm or cool pockets of air in otherwise closedoff rooms. Open homes make socializing easier, even when people are doing different things. While someone is cooking dinner
buyers may prefer an open-concept plan because it can help them minimize building costs.
Disadvantages of open floor plans
Open-concept homes are popular, but homeowners should weigh the pluses and minuses to see if this trend is truly right for them. METRO CREATIVE PHOTO Homes & Design
in the kitchen, he or she can still interact with someone else playing video games in the family room or paying bills in the home office. Entertaining also is easier, as mingling with guests is much more convenient when walls are not getting in the way. A smaller home can feel much larger if it employs an open concept. The
square footage is not divided into smaller quarters, which sometimes are rooms (such as formal dining rooms) that are only used a few times per year. This eliminates underused spaces and opens up sight lines in the layout. The value of real estate has risen dramatically since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and prospective
Open layouts are not for everyone. The same sense of space that occurs when walls are taken down may make rooms feel cavernous and less cozy, particularly in homes with ample square footage. In addition, privacy can be hard to come by when all rooms feed into one another. When the kitchen is not separate from the family room space, that makes it easy for noise to compromise the area’s comfort levels. There is no hiding from noise in an open floor plan, as sounds from voices, television shows and appliances tend to echo and blend together. And if the home is a single-story layout, those noises from the main living areas also may carry to adjacent bedrooms. Smoke and smells are another thing to consider. When something on the stove spills over, a small range hood will not be practical for clearing smoke from a large space. Though the aroma of freshly cooked food is enticing, it can make it hard for cooks to keep guests out of the kitchen. Open-concept homes are popular, but homeowners should weigh the pluses and minuses to see if this trend is truly right for them.
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HOMES & DESIGN
MAY 2022
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