Homes & Design
HOME IMPROVEMENT Spring 2021
~ Published by Rock Valley Publishing LLC
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HOMES & DESIGN
SPRING 2021
How to prepare your home for any emergency While no one wants to dwell on worstcase scenarios, the last year has in many ways illustrated that there are no certainties in life. Preparing your home to handle a wide range of emergency scenarios will offer you peace of mind now and keep your family safe in the future. To get prepped, start with the essentials. With sufficient fuel, water, food and other necessities, you can ride out potential emergency scenarios. Here’s how to collect and store these items safely and securely: Water The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends storing at least one gallon of water per person per day for 14 days so that in the event of an emergency that affects water supply, you’ll have enough for both drinking and sanitation. When it comes to long-term storage though, standard plastic bottles are not ideal as they degrade over time, compromising water quality and safety. Instead, consider taking a cue from the military. Standard issue to U.S. and Canadian Armed Forces, Scepter Military Water Cans hold 5 gallons and are made from rugged, high-density polyethylene. BPA-free, they keep chemicals, odors and tastes out of your water; corrosionand fungus-resistant, water also stays clean and safe. And because they are virtually indestructible and can withstand extreme weather conditions, they can pull double-duty and come with you on camping trips, sports expeditions and other adventures. Millions of these containers have been used around the world by U.S.
Armed Forces and are now available to consumers, making them a must-have for any emergency supply kit. Fuel Homeowners should have a fresh supply of gasoline, diesel and kerosene so they can operate generators, chainsaws and other tools often needed during and after emergencies. Fuel containers should be stored in secure, dry locations away from heat sources, pets and easy access to children. You should also be sure to select containers that exceed ASTM and CPSC minimum standards, such as the SmartControl fuel containers from Scepter, available in 1-, 2- and 5-gallon sizes. These
Tips for drywall repairs While your walls can suffer from everyday living, repairing drywall can be an easy fix if you have a little patience and the proper tools. Repairing it yourself can be much more convenient, plus save you money. Nicks, dings and dents Cut off any raised debris with a razor blade so it’s completely smooth. Using a drywall knife, smooth a pre-mixed spackling compound over the dent or hole and let it dry for about 15 minutes.
high-density polyethylene containers feature an innovative spout design that helps save fuel when it’s needed most by eliminating messy spills. For high-capacity needs, the 14-gallon wheeled Scepter Duramax offers a safe and convenient refueling choice. Food The CDC recommends storing at least a three-day supply of food for emergency scenarios. Be sure these are items with a very long shelf life that don’t require refrigeration or cooking. They should also meet the dietary needs of all household members. Periodically check your supply to ensure expiration dates have not passed
Lightly sand the area, apply another thin coat and sand again until the spot is totally smooth. Then, apply paint for a completed look. Cracks Long, skinny cracks aren’t as scary as they look, usually the result of the house flexing or settling and forming around windows and doors that were installed too tightly. To fix, get all of the loose debris out of the crack with a utility knife or flathead screwdriver. Next, apply a drywall compound into the crack to hold it together and prevent it from cracking again. Let it dry and apply a second coat. After the area is dry, it’s ready to be sanded and painted.
and refresh items as needed. To avoid spoilage and odors, store food in airtight containers away from petroleum products and heat. Of course, other important essentials should also be in your emergency kit, such as batteries, flashlights, first aid supplies and prescription medications. For a comprehensive emergency supply list, visit www.ready.gov. Don’t wait until there’s a problem to get your ducks in a row. By that time it’s often too late, with essentials gone from store shelves. Preparing your home today can offer you peace of mind now, and comfort and safety in an emergency.
(STATEPOINT)
Small to medium holes If the hole is more than a few inches wide, you’ll need a drywall patch. Cut a square of repair drywall two inches larger than the hole. With a utility knife, score the front of the drywall, then snap it back and cut the back for a perfectly smoothedged piece. Next, outline the piece over the hole in the wall with a pencil and then cut the existing drywall along the lines with a drywall saw. Screw two pieces of thin wood inside the hole at the top and bottom. Place the patch over the hole and screw it in, making sure the heads of each screw are below the surface for an even finish. Apply a square of drywall mesh, which
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HOMES & DESIGN
Page 3
Menard’s shares tips on caring for your countertops Countertops serve a variety of purposes. They give your kitchen or bathroom a new look, make meal prep easy, enhance aesthetics of your space and increase the value of your home. Regular countertop care and maintenance is important for its value, so knowing how to upkeep your countertop is key.
Various cleaning tips: GRANITE First check to make sure the countertop is sealed. To check the sealant, leave a few drops of water on the surface. If the water droplets bead up, it’s sealed. If the droplets have been absorbed, it’s time to reseal! Use a gentle approach for cleaning by using warm water, mild or gentle dish soap, and a soft washcloth. *Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners and sponges that will weaken the sealant*
5
tips to get your garage organized – and keep it that way
Is your garage in disarray? While you dream of a perfectly organized workbench or garage, your reality probably looks more like a sea of random toys, boxes and exercise equipment. Every do-it-yourselfer knows a clean, organized garage is the key to efficient project planning and repairs around the home. As we head into warmer months, set aside the time to take charge of the space and finally create a sense of tidiness that will last year-round. Follow these five tips to tame the mess and get your garage back in shape:
1.
Invest in shelving that accommodates clear storage bins. When it comes to organizing and storing the assortment of cords, car care items, paint supplies and kid’s toys littering your garage, nothing does the job better than clear storage bins. Not only can you categorize items by project or activity type, you can also easily stack them to save space without sacrificing the ability to easily find what you need, when you need it. Invest in taller, wider shelving for the perimeter of
the garage to accommodate your chosen bins.
2.
Fix or dispose of anything broken or past its prime. There’s nothing worse than scrambling to find a specific tool or product in an urgent situation, only to realize it’s broken, damaged or dried out. As you organize, pay attention to textures, consistencies and expiration dates. Toss and replace any items that have seen better days. For broken tools that seem salvageable, like cracked hoses or broken handles, reach for a professional grade, heavy-duty duct tape like T-Rex Tape to tackle the repair.
3.
Utilize ceiling and wall space with hanging storage. From bicycles and skis to rakes and shovels, some equipment is better off stored up and out of your way. Install hanging racks or shelving above the area where you park your vehicles to store larger, heavier equipment, and use a double-sided mounting tape to attach hooks along the sides of your garage for lighter-weight items.
4.
Stock up on the essentials so you can make repairs on the fly. While it’s great to have a wide assortment of tools and supplies, for many projects and repairs you really just need the basics – think maxstrength waterproof tape, bungee cords, a hammer, nails and similar essentials. Use these items as the foundation of your garage workstation and stock up on extras to keep on-hand for emergencies, camping and other on-the-go uses.
5.
Give everything a home. Aim to group supplies for similar activities, tasks and repairs together, giving each category a “home.” In addition to helping keep things organized in dedicated spaces, hanging frequently used tools and supplies on hooks or pegboard can make it easier to quickly scan the garage and find exactly what you need. Use your mounting tape to safely and securely create a space to store and display all your go-to items. Interested in more solutions for all your home and DIY needs? Visit www.trextape. com for a wide variety project and repair ideas.
Whether you’re working on your car or tackling a weekend DIY project, having all your tools and supplies in order will make all the difference. STATEPOINT PHOTO Homes & Design
Homes & Design Home Improvement Spring 2021 Published by Rock Valley Publishing LLC 1102 Ann St. Delavan, WI 53115 262-728-3411
Homes & Design
Spring Home Improvement
(STATEPOINT)
QUARTZ Avoid using harsh cleaning solutions, abrasive cleaners and scouring pads. Glass cleaner is very effective on quartz as it doesn’t leave any streaks. Simply spray a mild surface spray glass cleaner and wipe up with a soft paper towel or cloth. MARBLE Avoid products containing acid, including lemon juice and vinegar. Mix warm water and gentle, non-abrasive dish soap and apply to surface. Wipe the countertop with a hot, wet dish cloth and dry with an absorbent towel. Marble countertops will also leave dull spots on the surface which is known as etches. To correct, buff the marble with dry Grade #0000 steel wool. *Anything deeper than a water spot, light scratch or nick will require a professional’s help* LAMINATE Take a non-abrasive brush or sponge, add warm water and add mild dish soap. Begin wiping down your countertop and use baking soda if there are difficult spots to clean – do not scrub, or you could damage the surface. A great finishing touch is to mix water and vinegar and spray the countertop down. Allow the solution to sit for 2 minutes and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth. BUTCHER BLOCK While using mild soap, warm water and a sponge may wipe food and liquids away, undiluted vinegar is a useful tool to sanitize the butcher block. If you are seeing stains, sand the area of your butcher block and reseal with food-safe finishes. TIPS FOR A HEALTHY COUNTERTOP: Wipe up spills immediately - Gently scrape embedded food particles. Use cutting board, placemats, potholders Avoid harsh chemicals.
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HOMES & DESIGN
SPRING 2021
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Introducing the 2021 Color of the Year:
Paint like a pro Urbane Bronze A good paint job is important because it adds character, beauty and personality to your home. For that reason, it is important to take sufficient time planning and prepping to ensure your paint job is successful.
Tap into nature with a hue whose warmth and comfort breathe down-toearth tranquility. Our 2021 Color of the Year, Urbane Bronze, captures that simple sophistication every space is searching for.
Tips & tricks Color Consistency Paint colors may vary slightly from one can to the next; therefore, if you mix several cans of paint in a large bucket you can eliminate color difference when transitioning to a new can of paint. Perfect edge Before removing painting tape off trim or walls, let the paint dry for at least 24 hours, and then with a sharp utility knife cut it loose to avoid tearing off pieces of dried paint from the walls. As the paint is cut, pull up at a 45-degree angle. Drop cloths Regardless of how careful you are spills and splatters happen. Avoid the mess by choosing either a canvas or rosin paper drop cloth. Thick canvas stays in place so it can be used to cover any surface, whereas rosin paper is better over vinyl, tile and hard-wood and provides a nonslip surface. Painting techniques Paint the trim first, then the ceiling and walls. It is easier to tape off the trim than to tape off the walls. When painting trim worry more about getting a smooth finish then being neat since you’ll be painting the walls later. Preparation Materials to have on hand: patching paste, putty knife, primer, paint-can opener, stir sticks, roller covers, paintbrushes, paint tray, gloves, and drop cloths Clean dirty surfaces in order for the paint to bond properly Repair any imperfections to ensure the final job looks fresh and crisp! Protect anything you don’t want painted. Drop clothes are a must, and you can even use small plastic sandwich bags to protect doorknobs. Remove light switch and outlet covers if necessary
• Drywall repairs is sticky on one side, over the patch. This will help bond the patch to the wall. You’re now ready to spackle, using a pre-mixed wet drywall applied in three thin coats. Let it dry, sand it down and apply another two coats to make it nice and smooth. Large holes Repairing large patches due to water
e
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Find your sanctuary Now more than ever, our homes have become the backdrop to our lives, reminding us that the moments worth cherishing have always been right in front of us. As we’re looking to create the ultimate retreat for reflection and renewal, we’re turning to a hue whose natural simplicity and nature-inspired energy cultivate a sense of calm from the ground up. Rooted in nature The trend for biophilia continues to shape our spaces, proving that nature is never far away. Urbane Bronze might be a color rooted in nature, but it also has a unique ability to ground a room through organic appeal. Whether it’s accentuating window trims or accent walls, this warm hue draws from nature for a feeling of relaxation and serenity. It also works well with other biophilic elements including, light-filled spaces andfoliage.
Coordinating colors & materials Bold and understated, our Color of the Year is the new neutral that can be used wherever and however. Pair it with other warm neutrals and bone whites, like Modern Gray, to create an updated take on minimalism. If you want to bring in more color, modern greens, like Messenger Bag, can be introduced to add a hint of bolder style. Complete either look with natural materials like wood finishes, stone accents, and mixed metals that tie these earthy neutrals back to their nature-inspired roots. Urbane bronze inspiration Whether it’s the primary color or accent color, Urbane Bronze is the perfect choice for many interior and exterior projects. See how our influencers brought their sanctuaries to life with these calming DIYs. Want to explore Urbane Bronze and our coordinating colors further? Our ColorSnap® Visualizer lets you virtually try on hues with the click of a mouse or tap of a finger. You can also check out these nurturing hues in person with Color Chip Ordering.
(Continued from page 2) damage or another issue is just a bigger, longer process of fixing a smaller hole. Instead of using nailer boards, cut out a square or rectangle from one stud to the next stud, and then screw the large patch into the studs. Use joint tape instead of drywall mesh, then just apply two to three coats of compound and lightly sand in between each one.
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Eight tips for a successful home renovation SPRING 2021
Thinking of remodeling your home? From safety and security to product and contractor selection, there are many factors to consider. Follow these eight remodeling tips to help minimize hassles during a renovation:
1.
Create a budget. Create a project budget and set a spending limit. Whether you plan to utilize savings, home equity loan, line of credit or free up funds through refinancing, now is the time to identify how you will finance the project, and how much you want to spend.
2.
Prepare the house. Before work starts, clear all spaces where professionals will be working, as well as walkways they will use to access these areas. Remove valuables and breakables to avoid damage and cover furniture in areas where paint or dust could harm upholstery. Keep other considerations in mind. For example, if you’re renovating the kitchen, you may need to create a temporary food prep area.
3.
Work with reputable professionals. When selecting a contractor, be sure they have references, certification and an understanding of the project. For example, when tackling window and door projects, Andersen Windows, Inc. recommends hiring an Andersen Certified Contractor to do the job. These contractors receive product training, installation resources, offer an exclusive 2-year limited installation warranty, and their expertise and experience in an extensive range of residential projects means they’re able to capture your vision for your home and work with you to provide the right products. Bottom line: working with reputable professionals makes all the difference in the quality of the work and the materials used to complete the project.
4.
Schedule wisely. Choose a timeframe for your home renovation that best fits your busy schedule. Keep in mind that unforeseen circumstances can
sometimes cause delays. Build this into the timeline so you’re not taken by surprise.
5.
6.
8.
Add or update your security system. With professionals frequently coming in and out of your home, a home renovation may be a good time to add or update your security system with reprogrammable smart locks. Offering more convenience and greater control, the Yale Assure Lock for Andersen patio and entry doors for example, is a sleek, keyfree entry lock that makes it easy to grant access to contractors for limited periods of time, lock and unlock doors from
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anywhere and monitor from afar.
7.
Address safety. Talk to your contractor about what COVID-19 measures they practice to help keep customers and employees safe. Find out whether they’re following CDC guidelines for businesses, including always wearing a mask, social distancing whenever possible and frequent hand washing. Also, ask if they offer virtual consultations that allow you to start the process contact-free.
HOMES & DESIGN
Communicate openly and effectively. If a renovation is done correctly, you may never need to repeat the process. This makes open and honest communication with your home renovation team essential. Be sure to share your vision and to ask questions as they arise. At the same time, expect the professionals working with you to communicate regularly and address all your concerns. Get a return on your investment. Prioritize projects that will potentially raise the resale value of your home. According to FortuneBuilders, the top 10 greatest returns on investment for home renovations include bathroom and kitchen remodels, landscaping, replacing entry doors and replacing windows. It also helps to select products that come with transferrable warranties. This will give your property a tangible leg-up on the market when it’s time to sell.
(STATEPOINT)
Ready to spring clean? Goodwill is ready for you! Warm weather perfect time to donate
Cleaning house, organizing closets and helping the environment are all good reasons to donate your gently used housewares and textiles to Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois this weekend! Goodwill is ready to accept housewares and textile donations at all of its eleven retail locations in the hopes the warm weather will jump start spring cleaning. Sales of housewares have been in demand in the community so if you have that extra set of dishes, lamp or toaster that you no longer use consider donating it to Goodwill. Donations not only help fund Goodwill’s local mission programs, they also kept 11 million pounds of goods from ending up in the landfill in 2020. In addition to being an environmental steward, Goodwill spends 92 cents of every retail dollar supporting local mission programs. “Our local employment and educational programs such as LifeLaunch, GoodGRADS, and our supported employment programs are sustained by
donations,” Ben Bernsten, President of Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois said. “Donations are the lifeblood of the Goodwill organization, which leads to retail sales, which fuels the mission programs, which creates jobs for people with barriers in the community. ‘One Good Thing Leads to Another’ is the new theme for the organization and it all starts with donations,” Bernsten noted. For more information on store locations and donation hours visit www.goodwillni. org.
About Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois is a community-based not-for-profit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for individuals with barriers to enhance their lives. Goodwill funds job training programs, employment placement services and other community-based programs by selling donated clothing and household items in its 11 retail stores located in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. In 2020, Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois served 18,724 people in the communities in which we reside. A three-year CARF Accreditation was
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HOMES & DESIGN
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