Concrete care: Easy, cost-effective fixes for your home’s concrete

(ARA) – Concrete is so durable and dependable it’s easy to take it for granted. But like any other surface around a home, concrete needs maintenance – and sometimes repair.

In fact, performing simple upkeep on concrete surfaces when problems are relatively small can spare homeowners the time drain, expense and aggravation of minor problems that have developed into major issues.

Since economic conditions have made homeowners more vigilant about taking care of their homes, preserving exterior concrete surfaces, such as driveways, patios, steps and walkways, is a worthwhile investment. Fortunately, a number of the most common repairs are easy to do and can be accomplished in a weekend.

Surface renewal

Resurfacing old, worn or spalled concrete is an economical alternative to removal and replacement. Replacement can cost $3.50 or more per square foot whereas resurfacing – using a product such as Quikrete Concrete Resurfacer – costs 25 to 30 cents per square foot. To use:

* Thoroughly clean the old concrete to ensure the resurfacer will adhere properly. This can be achieved using a 3,500 psi high-duty pressure washer to clear dirt, debris, dust and any loose materials from the concrete.

* Use weather stripping to ensure the resurfacer doesn’t flow into the control or expansion joints. These are the clean lines that were cut into the concrete when it was poured to allow for the natural temperature-driven expansion and contraction of the concrete. Without joints, concrete will crack.

* Mix the resurfacing compound and the recommended amount of water in a 5-gallon bucket using a 1/2-inch drill and paddle mixer. The consistency should be lump-free and flowable. Sparingly add water to reach the desired consistency.

* Saturate the concrete surface and remove standing water from low spots. Pour the resurfacer and spread it with a long-handled squeegee. Use the squeegee to scrub the material into the surface. Within five minutes of completely covering the surface with the resurfacer, broom the surface, making sure all broom strokes go in the same direction.

Cosmetic work

Minor blemishes like small cracks can be repaired without resurfacing. Instead, try using a patching material such the Quikrete Patching Compound. Available in a ready-to-apply putty, the patching compound is ideal for minor repairs like small non-structural cracks and spalling less than 1/4 inch think.

Homeowners also can find polymer-modified compounds that bond directly to the concrete surface for a smooth repair. These compounds are self-bonding and -curing so no additives are needed.

Another option for cracks less than a half inch wide is Quikrete Concrete Crack Seal, which comes in a quart bottle that makes it easy to pour directly into the crack. Dry to the touch within 30 minutes, the sealant maintains adhesion through freeze/thaw cycles. Larger cracks may require a more flexible polyurethane sealant with increased bonding power and durability.

For more project ideas and information on concrete maintenance and repair, check out www.quikrete.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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(NewsUSA) – What could be more embarrassing than riding around with scratched or damaged wheels? Except for a bad paint job, nothing can make your car or truck look less appealing or bring down its value more.

Regardless of where you drive, wheel damage is a common problem caused by a variety of culprits: curbside rash, stone nicks, road scuffs, potholes, pitting, corrosion, chemicals and weather. Fortunately, there is an easy answer to the problem, and you don’t have to buy a new wheel or take your vehicle to a restoration shop. You can fix your wheels yourself and save hundreds of dollars and hassles in the process.

A new, easy-to-use Wheel Restoration Kit has been developed by Permatex, an automotive repair products producer. The Wheel Restoration Kit helps you to fix the damaged surface on your wheels, and restores the original silver metallic finish and overall appearance. The kit comes with simple, step-by-step instructions and everything you need for a complete wheel restoration, including a premium, high-performance wheel paint. The finished repair is permanent and resistant to chemicals, brake dust, heat and chipping.

To help you make a professional quality repair, Permatex has also developed three bi-lingual online demonstration videos: “Dents and Grooves,” “Curbside Rashes, Scuffs and Scratches,” and “Corrosion, Rust and Minor Scratches.” Each video takes you through the repair process, step by step. The videos are available for free and can be viewed online at www.permatex.com.

Whether you’re a do-it-yourselfer or a professional mechanic, you can easily restore your wheels to “like new” condition, without the need of special tools or training. The kit works on all types of metal wheels including aluminum, alloy, steel and mixed metals.

You should be able to get Permatex’s Wheel Restoration Kit at leading auto parts stores for less than $25.00. If not, you can contact Permatex (877-376-2839, www.permatex.com) directly, and they will help you find a retailer near you.

Caution: This repair is not recommended for use on chrome wheels or plastic wheel covers and should not be used for structural wheel damage

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NAPSI)-The right deck can offer hours of enjoyment to you and your family-and add value to your property. In fact, some say adding a deck is a proven way to add value to a home in an uncertain market.

According to the recent Cost Vs. Value Report completed by the collaboration of Remodeling magazine and Realtor Magazine, homeowners can expect to recoup a national average of more than 70 percent of the value of adding a new deck when they go to resell the house. In some areas of the country, that recoup value is more than 82 percent of the original cost.

However, great decks don’t just happen. They require imagination, planning and the right materials. If you are thinking of adding a deck to your property, here are some tips:

• Start by checking with your homeowners’ association or local authorities to determine specific rules, zoning or building codes. These may affect the size, height and safety features of your deck.

• How you plan to use the deck can play a big part in the design. Entertaining, dining, family activities and relaxing can all place different demands on the design.

• When you’ll be using your deck is also a factor to consider. You’ll want to position the deck in an area that will receive the appropriate amount of sun and/or shade.

• Do you want your deck to adjoin the kitchen, living room, family room or your master bedroom? Accessibility will influence both design and location.

• Decide what size deck you want. Many builders suggest the deck be the same size as the largest room in your home. Be sure you have enough room to comfortably fit your deck furniture.

• Keep the physical features of your yard in mind, including trees, gardens and hilly areas. Some items may need to be moved or removed before you start building.

• Be sure to consider your privacy, traffic noise and the local climate. Often, you can add screens and landscaping to solve problems in these areas.

• When it comes to selecting materials, your lifestyle, as well as your budget, can have a lot to do with deciding which materials work best for your deck.

For example, many homeowners are turning to composite deck materials made from plastic and wood fiber–such as EverGrain from TAMKO Building Products–because the decking is low maintenance in that it requires no staining or painting, just periodic cleaning.

Plus, this compression-molded decking features true-to-life lasting grains with no rotting or termites. It also offers coordinating railing systems.

To learn more, visit www.tamko.com or call (800) 641-4691.

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Do you have the right tools for your “honey-do” list?

(ARA) – It’s summer and there’s no better time to take on home improvement projects and that ever-expanding “honey-do” list. In a few months, those tasks will seem a lot more unpleasant when they can’t be done in the beautiful sunshine.

The key to tackling everything from the largest construction project to the smallest touch-up is to have the right equipment. Don’t talk yourself into trying to getting by with makeshift tools – you’ll only end up frustrated, and your project might not get done at all.

If you can’t find everything you need in your tool shed (or even in your tool box), you may be worried about the cost of buying a lot of expensive equipment – particularly if you plan to do more than one project. For most people, renting equipment allows them to get jobs done without the extra cost of buying pricey items that they won’t actually use much.

To make sure that you’ve got everything you need, start by assessing what tools and gadgets you have. Here are some ideas for what you’ll need for some of the most common summer home improvement projects:

* For cleaning your home’s exterior, whether it’s the siding, deck or driveway, a rented power washer gets the job done in a fraction of the time with double the power.

* For touching up the paint on your home, you’ll need sturdy ladders, an array of painting tools and, of course, paint. To give yourself an easy place to set all of your gear, a wheeled scaffolding unit with a platform is a great idea.

* For putting in a new fence, you’ll need panels and posts, and, to make the job go faster, a power auger from your local rental store for digging post holes. Just make sure you contact local utilities to find out where it’s safe to dig before you get started.

* For clearing unwanted brush, bushes and trees, you’ll need a chainsaw and, potentially, a stump grinder or wood chipper. You can rent all of the necessary equipment.

* For adding a deck, choose the decking material you want, and depending on your selection, you might need to pick out sealants and decorative accents. You’ll also need an air compressor for the building process.

Instead of having to shop around for the best price, you can save time and get started right away on your project by going to your local rental store and picking up the tools you need. To make finding the rental store nearest you even easier, the American Rental Association (ARA) offers RentalHQ.com, the world’s largest and most comprehensive rental store locator.

You might even be able to talk your friends into helping out with your projects – combine an afternoon of deck building with a barbeque and you might just find more willing helpers than you’d expected. Armed with a little know-how, a little help from friends and the right tools, your “honey-do” list will be a thing of the past. For more information on tool rental, go to www.RentalHQ.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Make your home your summer getaway

(ARA) – Summer is a time to take long weekends, enjoy the pleasant weather and make new memories with family and friends. It’s also a time to take a moment for yourself and find ways to savor that relaxing vacation feeling.

With just a few quick and affordable changes to your decor, you can transform your home into a calming and restful place to spend the summer:

* Roll up the rugs and clean and store them for the summer
* Put light-colored canvas slipcovers on dark upholstered furniture
* Change throw pillows to summery patterns/colors
* Put away knick-knacks for a lighter, more minimalist feeling
* Place Scentsy wickless candles in living areas to add a fresh, summer scent without the heat and open flame of traditional candles

“Summer scents allow us to draw upon wonderful memories and emotions, like the first time you dipped your toes in the ocean and felt the sand, or the smell of wonderful summer desserts like peach cobbler being served at a picnic,” says Heidi Thompson, co-owner of Scentsy. “Your home should be your retreat, and with different summer scents, every day can feel like a summer vacation.”

Some scents that evoke a summer feel according to Thompson are:

* A light floral fragrance is great way to keep your home smelling fresh and clean every day.
* A citrusy scent that features hints of oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruit helps bring a tropical feel to any living room, even in the most humid environments.
* The scent of a fruity tart treat fills your home with fragrance without the added calories or need to turn on the hot oven.

To fill your home with these summer scents, all you have to do is select one of Scentsy’s decorative ceramic warmers, place some of the specially formulated scented wax into the dish, plug it in and turn it on. A low watt light bulb melts the wax at low temperatures to release the candle fragrance into the air.

In just a few minutes and for just a few dollars, you can create a summer retreat at home. Now sit back, relax and let your worries disappear as you enjoy a tall, cool drink and an exciting new novel.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Secrets every bride can use to make her wedding unique


(ARA) – Every bride-to-be dreams of putting her unique stamp on her wedding day.  Blending her chosen wedding colors into many of the occasion’s elements is just the first step toward a creative and beautiful event. Brides in gorgeous gowns, bridesmaids and groomsmen decked out in the wedding party’s colors and striking flowers are the perfect accompaniment to the colorful landscape of the summer and fall wedding seasons.

Selecting the perfect ways to feature wedding colors is a very personal representation of the bride and groom. If you’re a bride-to-be, picture homemade jewelry embellishing your wedding dress, table decorations that match your wedding theme and colors perfectly, or all your guests looking over unique programs that you made at your kitchen table.

“Making wedding decorations or even gifts for the wedding party allows you to put a lot of creativity and personality into the project. And, because you made it yourself, you’ll have a customized, one-of-a-kind item that perfectly matches your wedding and its decor,” says Courtney Talkington, manager of education and inspiration for Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores. “Another idea for your DIY wedding is to involve your family, friends and wedding party in making the projects, allowing everyone to be included in the fun and creativity.”

Using a centuries-old technique of quilling is one way to create a homemade necklace with a unique look in beautiful colors. Not only does the rolled paper look beautiful in decorative flower shapes, it’s also a great way to incorporate keepsakes such as ticket stubs or love letters from the dating and engagement years into meaningful, wearable art. Are you new to quilling? Quilling classes will be offered at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores starting in September.

Quilled memory necklace

Supplies and tools:
Thin paper strips for quilling: scrapbook papers, ticket stubs, old love letters and other paper mementos
Quilling tool
X-Acto knife and cutting mat
Tacky glue
1 spool tiger tail
1 package each of 3 mm and 4 mm Blue Moon glass pearl beads
1 clasp set
Crimp beads
Crimp tool
Bent-nose pliers
Wire cutter
2 6 mm jump rings
1/4 yard Tulle
1/4 yard of 1/4 inch wide Organdy ribbon
Hand sewing needle
Thread
Optional book: “The Art of Paper Quilling, Designing Handcrafted Gifts and Cards”

Directions:
1. Using paper strips for quilling, make several flower shapes in various sizes and colors.  Set aside.
2. Cut two pieces of tiger tail about 12 inches long.
3. Attach one end of one tiger tail strand to clasp using crimp bead and crimp tool. Trim excess wire.
4. String glass pearl beads for about 8 to 9 inches.
5. Attach one jump ring to opposite end using a crimp bead and crimp tool. Trim excess wire. Set aside.
6. Repeat steps three to five for second tiger tail strand.
7. Cut two pieces of tiger tail – one 8 inches long and another 10 inches long.
8. Attach tiger tail strands to jump ring. Adjust the 8 inch strand to measure approximately 6 inches and the 10 inch strand to measure approximately 8 inches.
9. Lay paper flowers out on work surface so they fit nicely between the two pearl strands and on top of the two tiger tail strands.
10. Cut two pieces of tulle slightly larger than your flower layout, following the outline of the flower shapes. Cut two large strips of tulle – about 3/4 inches wide and 3 inches long – to tie onto necklace at the sides.
11. Sandwich the two tiger tail wires between the tulle. Hand stitch the tulle together close to the tiger tail wire.
12. Tie the tulle onto the necklace at jump rings. Trim tulle to desired length.
13. Cut two pieces of organdy ribbon each 2 1/2 inches long. Tie onto necklace at jump rings. Trim.
14. Glue paper flower in place on top of the tulle following desired layout. Let dry.
15. Add glass pearl beads to flower centers. Let dry.

If you’re looking for something for your guests to take home with them, consider designing your wedding programs with a keepsake envelope. The directions below use fall burgundy colors, but feel free to mix and match the colors to personalize the program to your wedding.

Personalized wedding program

Supplies and tools:
8 1/2 inches by 11 inches of Burgundy suede cardstock
12 inches by 12 inches of Black Magic cardstock, black/red two-sided
12 inches by 12 inches of Burgundy suede paper
Lime green cardstock
12 inches by 12 inches Vellum sheets, translucent clouds
2 shades of purple, narrow ribbon
5 round beads, grape
5 seed beads, grape
Silver leaf charm
Silver “Follow your heart” charm
5 headpins
2 jump rings
Silver heart brad
20-gauge Silver wire
Grape leaf template
Paper trimmer and scissors
Corner rounder
Hole punches, regular and large
Vellum tape
Adhesive dot runner or glue stick
Jewelry tools: wire cutter, round-nose and chain-nose pliers
Computer (to generate text)
Ruler and stylus (or bone folder)

Directions
1. Cut burgundy suede cardstock 5 1/2 inches by 12 inches. Score 4 inches up from bottom edge and fold, using ruler and stylus, to create a pocket. If left and right edges are not quite even, trim them now, up to 1/2 inch total. Punch top four corners of folded pocket with corner rounder.

2. Using included pattern, trace a grape leaf on the back of the pocket flap and cut out with scissors. Print the bride’s and groom’s names and wedding date on vellum, so that it will fit the leaf shape. Attach the vellum to the inside of the pocket with adhesive dot runner. Attach a panel of lime green cardstock behind the vellum for a subtle green hue. Cut a thin strip of burgundy suede cardstock to fit behind top of pocket. Round corners and attach so the back side of the paper is visible behind the suede pocket. Using large hole punch, punch a notch on the left and right sides, using photo as guide for securing ribbon.

3. Print vellum panels with wedding information, no wider than 4 1/4 inches. Mount on burgundy suede paper and Black Magic cardstock; round top right corner of vellum.

4. To create bead grape cluster, string a green seed bead on a headpin, followed by a round green bead. Make six to eight. Create a wrapped loop at the end of each. Curl one end of 20-gauge wire and string on grapes and leaf charm. Create a wrapped loop.

5. Wrap narrow purple ribbons around the wedding program pocket and tie in a knot to the right of the leaf cut-out. Slip the bead cluster onto a jump ring and attach over the knot. Tie the ribbon, catching the jump ring, to prevent it from sliding. Attach the “Follow your heart” charm to a second jump ring and attach it to the first jump ring.

6. Punch a hole through all three layers of the program and insert a silver heart brad.

“There are so many ways to take your wedding from mainstream to magnificent” advises  Talkington. “A little inspiration is all you need to incorporate your ideas into the wedding of your dreams.”

For additional ideas for unique ways to personalize your wedding through crafts, visit www.joann.com/wedding.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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Five ways to save time and money on your taxes

(ARA) – The typical taxpayer is expected to spend more than three business days and more than $200 completing his or her tax return.

“That’s too much time and too much money,” says Gary Lundberg, product management director for CompleteTax (www.CompleteTax.com), an online income tax preparation program. “The good news is, there are a few easy things people can do that will help them save time and money doing their taxes, as well as make sure they get the biggest refund they’re due.”

As people get ready to file their 2009 tax returns, there are a few things they can do to save time and money.

1. Make sure you’re prepared.

Having a few key items available when you start your taxes will save a lot of time. These include:

* Your tax return from 2008
* Social Security numbers for you, your spouse and children
* All W-2s (wage and tax withheld form for 2009 supplied by your employer), 1099s (statements on investment income provided by your financial services institutions), mortgage interest statements and other statements related to income
* All statements related to expenses that you will be claiming on your tax return
* The routing numbers and account numbers for the accounts in which you want to directly deposit your tax refund.

2. Use an online tax program.

One advantages of using an online tax program is that many of the items you need to start your taxes – like your prior year’s return – can be stored by the program. So, you don’t have to waste time hunting down information every year.  

More than 32 million people filed their tax returns from their home computers during 2009, up nearly 20 percent from the prior year, according to Internal Revenue Service data. That number is likely to continue to increase as more people realize the benefits of online tax prep and electronic filing.

Using the right online tax program makes it a lot easier and faster for people to finish their tax return with no need to go to the store or download a program onto their computer.  

Online tax programs also are a lot more accurate. In fact, the IRS reports that an electronically prepared and filed return has an error rate of less than 1 percent, compared to an error rate of about 20 percent for a paper prepared return.  

3. Free file if you can.

Depending upon how complicated a person’s taxes are, they may be able to prepare and e-file their tax return absolutely free. For example, if you don’t need to itemize, and only have a few simple requirements – such as claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit – you may be able to use a free online tax program. For example, CompleteTax offers a free version of its program and the IRS lists other providers participating in the Free File Alliance.

If your tax situation is more complicated – for example, you have itemized deductions, investment income or you are a small business owner – you will want to make sure to purchase the online solution that is tailored to your needs. Good online tax programs for people with general tax needs are available for less than $20 and even investors or small business owners who have more complicated returns can find solutions for less than $75.

“Completing your tax returns does not need to be a drain on your wallet,” says Lundberg. “The right tax program can save a taxpayer both time and money.”

4. Maximize your credits and deductions.

The average tax refund for 2008 was nearly $2,800. However, many taxpayers have the sinking feeling that they are not getting the tax breaks they should. In fact, according to an independent survey conducted by CompleteTax, two-thirds of 1,000 randomly surveyed taxpayers fear they may overlook tax breaks or make mistakes that could cost them in fines or penalties.

“There are dozens of credits and deductions that people may have available to them. So it’s important to make sure that the tax program they’re using is geared to identify these and guide them to options that will maximize their refund,” says Lundberg.

Some programs will also provide tools to help further ensure accuracy. For example, while millions of people donate clothing and household items to charities, few have any idea of the value. A tax program, such as CompleteTax, with a charitable donation calculator, provides an easy way for determining and documenting the fair market value of these items, helping you realize the greatest charitable contribution deductions you can.

5. E-file and use direct deposit.

Electronically filing and using direct deposit significantly increases how quickly taxpayers have access to their refund. Generally, e-filers can have their refund deposited directly into their accounts within a few days, compared to the weeks it takes to receive a mailed check. Certain tax programs also allow customers to split their refund and deposit it into three separate accounts. For example, you could deposit part in your checking account, part in your savings account and part directly into a tax-advantaged IRA account.

“E-filing and direct deposit don’t cost you anything, but they can mean you have your refund faster so that it can start working for you – whether that’s paying off debt, buying something you want or saving for the future,” Lundberg says.

Taxpayers can find more money-saving tips through CompleteTax news and tax alerts at www.CompleteTax.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Home exterior colors reflect style, personality and environment

(ARA) – Building or renovating a home is a decision-filled process. Some decisions, such as location, size and layout, tend to be more family needs-based than desire-based. But other decisions are based primarily on preference and offer the opportunity to express a homeowner’s design style. One such decision that can cause particular anxiety for people who are building or renovating is choosing an exterior color. After all, this element creates a home’s “curb appeal” and the first impression visitors and passersby will have of your home and you.

Identifying color trends
According to Pat Verlodt, president of Color Services & Associates – an organization that identifies color trends and educates consumers and manufacturers about those trends – one of the reasons that choosing a color for the exterior of your home is so difficult is because it is one of the longest-term decisions people make.

“The average length of time a homeowner will own a new car before buying another is shorter than the amount of time that the homeowner’s house will remain the same color,” says Verlodt.

Home colors follow various trends and begin years in advance before becoming mainstream.

“Siding color trends are slow to change because the trends themselves are long-term,” says Verlodt. “They often begin in fashion or accessory colors, then neutralize over time and become popular home colors.”

Some color trends are regional, such as sandy colors in the Southwest, or bright, tropical colors in Florida. Currently, a social movement is influencing the hottest home color trend nationwide. People throughout the United States are choosing shades of green siding and paint for their homes because of the color’s association with the environment.

Identifying color trends for homes involves investigating other industries such as fashion, cars and interior home colors. Within the last 10 years, the variety of home color options has grown immensely due to increased technological capabilities. And if you are looking for a low-maintenance solution, vinyl siding manufacturers can now meet this need with virtually unlimited styles, designs and color options.

According to Jerry Blais, vice president of marketing for Ply Gem, a building products supplier, manufacturers were unable to produce darker colors years ago to meet the stringent performance requirements in the field. Now, manufacturers such as Ply Gem use a co-extrusion process that combines a sturdy inner substrate with a weather- and fade-resistant capstock on the outside. The capstock layer is produced from acrylic polymers that hold their color and reflect ultraviolet and infrared light to increase the lifespan of the siding.

“Color is infused into the siding during this extrusion process. It is not painted or coated later,” says Blais. “These technological advancements have greatly increased the color palette available to homeowners, including darks, blends and even weathered cedar colors.”

Personalizing your home
Technological advances in siding colors allow homeowners to choose richer hues to suit their taste. No longer does vinyl siding need to come in bland beiges or grays. And because vinyl siding typically holds up to weather and sun better than paint, homeowners don’t need to worry about the need to re-paint every couple of years.

“People want to buy products that will last a long time,” says Verlodt. “But personalization is key.”

Color technology has advanced so much that the range of colors now available for vinyl siding, trim and accents is nearly limitless. Homeowners can actually customize their home to be almost any color they wish.

“We use a color customization process in our Mastic Home Exteriors by Ply Gem  brand called DreamColor,” says Blais. “The DreamColor process offers over 700 colors in siding, trim and accents and allows homeowners to send in an item in a color they love, such as a favorite shirt, and we can customize a siding color to match that item.”

Add this capability with cedar shingle and stone veneer accents also available from Mastic Home Exteriors and homeowners can now create the designed and color-coordinated exterior they have always wanted without the maintenance.

The most important aspects of choosing a siding color are picking something that you’re comfortable with and that makes a style statement about you, yet doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb from your neighbors. Take your time when choosing a color and consult a color expert or siding manufacturer to learn about the latest trends. For more information on vinyl siding colors and options, visit www.plygem.com or www.mastic.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Design a dream kitchen without breaking your budget

(ARA) – Looking to build your ideal kitchen, but not sure if you can afford it? It may seem like a difficult task, but it is possible to design a space that will fulfill your needs, while leaving room (and funds) for your dreams. Here’s how you can combine sacrificing and spending to find the perfect new product mix.

Spend Here
Find your passion. When deciding on which areas of your kitchen to spend your dollars, first think about your personal passions. Iron Chefs may sink money into professional-grade appliances, bakers may prefer granite countertops to roll out delicate dough, while entertainers may focus on wine coolers or island seating. Making your kitchen work for you is always worth the investment.

Focus on the future. While style is an important consideration, function is essential in the kitchen. For workhorse items, like faucets or appliances, invest in a quality brand.  Manufacturers, such as Moen, offer lifetime guarantees on their products, ensuring you won’t need to replace your faucet a few years down the line. And, with stylish, “green” products, like the new Anabelle and Dorsey Eco-Performance kitchen faucets available at Lowe’s, your kitchen faucet will look great and save up to 32 percent on water, while standing the test of time.

Set the stage with storage. Did you know that nearly half the world’s kitchens have a junk drawer? With the insurmountable number of household items and cooking utensils accumulating in the kitchen, adding quality cabinets to store it all away is always a safe bet. To maximize your investment, choose a finish that will meet your style needs today and in the future. According to the “Real Deal” Survey, conducted by Decora Cabinets and Kitchen and Bath Design News, white/cream or natural oak, maple and cherry are the most widely accepted cabinet finishes. Additionally, the survey revealed that pull-out garbage bins, pot and pan drawers and tray organizers are the most popular ways to keep your cabinets organized.

Save There
Get the look for less. When it comes to flooring and countertops, laminates offer the look of high-end options, but without the expense and required maintenance. For countertops, manufacturers, such as VT Fine Laminate Countertops, offer a variety of options that emulate the look of natural granite or quartz. Similarly, today’s laminate flooring is available in patterns and textures to achieve the look of wood, ceramic tile or stone – but all at a fraction of the price.

Do it yourself. When it comes to remodeling, labor can often be a majority of the cost. If you are handy – or have some handy friends or family – doing it yourself can save quite a bit of cash. Not so comfortable with a tool belt? Don’t fret. Hire a professional to do the major renovation, but ask for a discount if you assist with demolition, clean-up or the finish work and painting.

Reuse or recycle. Designing your ideal kitchen doesn’t always mean starting from scratch. Assess your current kitchen and determine what works. If your cabinets meet your storage needs, but not your aesthetic wants – try refinishing or painting them. Additionally, use online sites, such as craigslist.com, or organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity ReStore to sell or donate kitchen items you don’t want (like appliances, furniture, lighting and cabinets) – or to purchase new ones. It’ll save your wallet and help the environment by keeping them out of landfills.

With just a bit of planning upfront on where to save and where to spend, you can easily achieve the kitchen of your dreams. For more information about Moen faucets, visit moen.com, or call (800) BUY-MOEN.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Start Spring Early with Indoor Gardening

(ARA) – Let’s face it — February, March and April can be gray and dreary months. You’re more than ready for spring to begin, but Mother Nature is on a different schedule. But you can jump start the season of growth early and bring it inside where you can enjoy it through those last moments of winter.

Stale, polluted air happens frequently when homes are closed up for the winter months. But houseplants help to lighten the mood and purify the air. A NASA study found that houseplants remove up to 87 percent of toxic indoor air inside a sealed chamber within 24 hours.

Start your spring season early by planting vegetables, herbs and flowers while winter is still in the air, so they’ll be primed for transplanting when the spring season actually arrives. You can watch the plants as they shoot their little green stems out of the fresh dirt, monitoring them as they grow larger and larger.

* Use loose potting soil to promote root growth. Outside, worms and insects tunnel through the dirt, naturally breaking it up to help plants spread their roots. To mimic their effect indoors, use potting soil mixed with peat moss, vermiculite and perlite to create a light texture that won’t compact after a couple of waterings.

* Keep the humidity level above 50 percent with a humidifier. Not only will your plants appreciate the extra moisture, but so will you. When the humidity drops below 50 percent, most plants suffer from water loss through their leaves, and it’s difficult to regain that water balance, even with frequent watering.

* Really bring spring inside your home with beautiful pots and decorating accents. Visit Montgomery Ward (www.Wards.com) to find unique gardening accents. A garden gate gives vines a place to climb and you can also use it to decorate your walls as a headboard or wall hanging. Imagine waking up in the morning to see the vine stems spiraling around the gate toward the window. Or search for elegant and decorative plant stands that match your decor, and bring to life a beautiful and scented herbal garden to spruce up your kitchen counters.

* Check the nutrient levels for your plants. Outdoor plants get nutrients reimbursed naturally, but indoor plants don’t have that luxury. Every time you water your indoor plants, you wash some of the fertilizer out of the soil. Not all plants like the same amount or kinds of fertilizer, so do a little research.

* Make sure the natural light is adequate. Some plants like direct sunlight and must be located near a south-facing window, while others prefer a few hours of indirect light. When plants don’t get the light they need, they start to appear very thin and frail. Also make sure as your plants begin to grow, that you rotate the pots so they grow straight, rather than bending unnaturally toward the source of light. If your house does not have enough natural light sourcing, artificial lights work as a good supplement.

* Take care of your plants when you leave home for more than a couple of days. You can always ask a neighbor to come in and make sure your plants get a good drink of water, or try the Oasis Plant Watering System available at Montgomery Ward (www.Wards.com ). Place drip lines in each of the plants, set the system for the number of days you’ll be gone and the gravity-fed system will irrigate your foliage twice a day. For plants that require more water, double up the drip lines, and enjoy your time away. When you return home, spring will await you inside.

Courtesy of ARAcontent