Remodel 411: help for
the remodeling-challenged
(ARA) - Thinking of remodeling but don't know where to start? Let your mouse do
the heavy lifting and transform your current space into your dream home. These
days everyone turns to the Web to get inspired. In fact, a study conducted by
Princeton Survey Research International found that 69 percent of Americans use
the Internet as a source of information when it comes to housing and investment
decisions.
"Whether you're an expert do-it-yourselfer or this is your first home
improvement project, the Internet can be an excellent resource," said Danny
Lipford, host of the nationally syndicated television show, "Today's Homeowner
with Danny Lipford," and frequent contributor to "The Early Show" on CBS. "And
the tools available on the Web just keep getting better and better - with
educational videos, downloadable shopping lists, budget and return-on-investment
calculators."
Getting started: The ABC's of ROI
With a project as daunting as remodeling a home, sometimes the most difficult
part is just getting started. The key? Prioritizing. Start your renovation by
concentrating on the rooms you use the most and offer the best return on
investment (ROI): your kitchen and your bathroom.
According to Remodeling Magazine's 2010 Cost vs. Value report, homeowners will
recoup the greatest share of their costs by foregoing super-deluxe projects in
favor of mid-range kitchen and bath remodels. A mid-range kitchen remodel brings
an average 72.1 percent return on investment and a mid-range bathroom project
has an average 71 percent cost recovery.
Budget-minded enhancements
A "mid-range" kitchen or bath remodel sounds great on paper - but what types of
projects does that really entail? Realtor magazine offers a few budget-minded
enhancements to consider when remodeling:
* Add or replace tile - Purchase low-cost tiles to replace a dated backsplash or
add a new one.
* Install granite tile instead of a slab - While granite kitchen counters are
extremely popular, they can be a $5,000 upgrade. Instead, put in 12-inch granite
tiles for as little as $300 in materials. You'll get the same impact for less.
* Freshen up your bathroom. This is a room that can be refreshed with little
effort: try simple updates like regrouting tile or reconditioning cabinets.
These small upgrades can make a big impact.
Or, if you want to tackle something a little larger - nothing makes a style
statement like a new bathroom faucet. The new Method bathroom collection from
Moen features clean lines, soft curves and a sophisticated, modern look. And not
only does the Method collection look great, but it's eco-friendly, as well --
meeting WaterSense criteria and offering 30 percent water savings, without
sacrificing performance.
Planning on the World Wide Web
Now that you've decided on the projects you'd like to undertake, it's time to
begin the planning process. Begin by looking at everything from current trends
and style options to the nuts and bolts of estimated budgets and time to
completion.
In the kitchen
Websites like dannylipford.com are a great place to get ideas and support from
fellow homeowners. The site DIYnetwork.com gives visitors an overview of a
variety of kitchen projects, with step-by-step instructions, a list of the
materials needed and the products their designers recommend. And, there's a time
frame, price range and difficulty level listed for every project, helping you to
choose a kitchen remodel that's doable for you.
In the bath
Moen's website is another great resource and features many design and planning
videos to help inspire homeowners. The site even offers an interactive faucet
selector tool, which helps you choose the right faucet for your space. Simply
answer a few questions about your decorating style, how much you'd like to spend
and which finish and features are important to you. Another way to stay up to
date in the remodeling world is by signing up for Moen's At Home eNewsletter,
which provides trends and ideas for your home.
"The best advice I can offer when tackling a remodeling project is to relax and
enjoy the ride," added Lipford. "While it's easy to become overwhelmed, trust
your instincts and don't be afraid to try new things. At times, it may seem
easier to call in a professional, but you'll have a great sense of pride in
knowing that you did the job yourself."
Courtesy of ARAcontent
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Ten simple ways to make your home safe for every generation
who lives in it
(ARA) - Most of us start life depending on our parents to take care of us. But
as they age, chances are the roles will reverse. And, whether you provide
additional help in their own homes - or move aging parents into your home - how
do you prepare to meet the new needs of aging adults?
Luckily many simple, quick, affordable - and even stylish and savvy - updates
can make homes safer and more enjoyable for you, your family and your parents.
De-clutter
Both kids and older adults have reduced reflexes and balance. Spruce up the look
of your home - and avoid tripping hazards - by removing clutter and items you no
longer use (especially obstacles in walkways).
Safe, spaaahh shower
Showers can be an enjoyable and luxurious part of anyone's day - if they are
safe. While you probably don't want to renovate the shower, simple additions of
bath safety products can make it safer and more enjoyable. Start by adding
rubber grips to the bottom of the shower to avoid slick surfaces. Next, take a
seat with a comfortable shower chair and enjoy a shower massage with a
multi-function hand held showerhead. Products like the Home Care by Moen shower
chair and Hand Held Shower with Innovative Palm Feature are ideal choices at
affordable prices to add safety, style and spa enjoyment to the shower.
Save resources, save money
Eco-friendly adjustments not only can make you feel good about preserving
natural resources for your family, they can also help lower energy costs (ideal
for tight budgets). Simple steps can include replacing standard light bulbs with
compact fluorescent bulbs, insulating doors and windows and swapping faucets and
showerheads with new water-saving WaterSense-labeled models.
Handy handles
In the course of a day, you grip many objects - from cups and pens, to door
knobs and faucet handles. Swapping out door knobs or faucets with knobs for
lever-handle models can make these everyday tasks a bit easier - especially for
smaller or arthritic hands.
Get a grip
For any age, stairs are a falling hazard in homes - whether it's one step or 20.
To increase safety, add hand rails or decorative hand grips in high-traffic
doorways where there may be a step, such as the garage or front entry. Home Care
by Moen offers attractive-looking 9-inch grips that install easily and blend in
with your decor.
Let there be light
Did you also know that by age 60 the average person requires 15 times more
lighting than when they were 10 years old? Brighten up the home with additional
reading lamps in bedrooms and family rooms, under-cabinet task lighting in the
kitchen, motion-sensor lights near entrances and nightlights in hallways.
Safe and secure
Your home is your safe haven ... so make sure it is protected. In the bathroom
where slick surfaces can be falling hazards, add functional - yet fashionable -
grab bars from Home Care by Moen. And, in case of unforeseen falls or other home
accidents, home security systems can give you peace of mind to know that fire-,
medical- or emergency-response is available for you and your loved ones at the
touch of a button.
Flat flooring
According to the Home Safety Council, falls are the leading cause (66 percent)
of all nonfatal home injuries. To help you - or your loved ones - avoid becoming
a statistic, remove throw rugs or ensure that they have a non-slip backing to
provide more firm footing.
Low-maintenance lawns
With busy lifestyles, it's tough to keep up landscaping. Making a few
modifications to the yard can help ease the burden. Replace large grassy areas
that require frequent mowing with rock gardens or mulch beds. Additionally,
choose drought-resistant perennial plants and shrubs to save time and money on
watering - and ensure you don't have to plant new each spring.
Be prepared
Are the washer and dryer in the basement? Are the bedroom and bathroom upstairs?
Since stairs can be difficult to navigate for children or aging parents, having
all the necessities on one floor is ideal. While it may not be in the budget to
move everything to the main floor now, gradually start getting ready by wiring a
closet or small room for the laundry - or planning to expand a half bath to a
full bath.
With a few minor updates, you can breathe easier knowing your home is safer for
your loved ones - both young and old. For more information on safety products
from Home Care by Moen, visit www.moen.com/homecare.
Courtesy of ARAcontent |
Tips for keeping your
garden truly organic
(ARA) - The trend for gardening at home continues to grow - and people are
taking a particular interest in raising their flowers and vegetables
organically.
Unfortunately, the increased interest in organic gardening has led to some
confusion - and some deception - about what it means for a product to be
"organic."
Official organic labeling comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Their seal comes in a few forms, denoting whether a product is "100 percent
organic," "organic," or "made with organic" ingredients. In addition to the
USDA, the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) is a non-profit, independent
organization that gives reviews of products.
If your main concern in planting an organic garden is providing your family with
safe-to-eat, healthy food right from your own back yard, you'll want to take the
trouble to make sure you're using truly organic gardening products.
An OMRI listed solution for deer and rabbit control is Plantskydd. Its
effectiveness and environmental soundness as an organic repellent have made it
popular for among gardeners, landscapers and even agencies like departments of
natural resources.
It's important to remember that you have the power to influence the products
that are available to you -- discuss your concerns with local retailers.
Courtesy of ARAcontent |
Summer fun doesn't have to
cost a fortune
(ARA) - Many American families will opt to save money this summer by foregoing a
vacation at the beach, theme park or other destination. But deciding to stay
home doesn't mean you have to give up summer fun altogether. You can have plenty
of fun close to home - even right in your own backyard - with a modest cash
investment and a little planning ahead.
Water, water everywhere
Summer and water play go hand in hand. You don't have to head to the beach to
make a splash. Explore local attractions to learn if a water park is near your
home; a one-day trip to such a destination can yield hours of fun at a fraction
of the cost of even the most modest beach vacation.
If no water park is nearby, look for a nature preserve, park or lake where you
can engage in some water sports. If all else fails, don't underestimate the
sheer fun you can have in your own backyard with a couple of kiddie pools, a
sprinkler and a garden hose. After all, the objective is to get wet, cool off
and have fun together as a family.
While you're having fun in the water, remember to get enough water into your
body as well. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water whenever you take part
in outdoor activities this summer. Don't leave home without a supply of water
bottles like the spill-proof, BPA-free plastic Tritan Hydration Bottle offered
by Contigo. Reusable water bottles not only help you stay hydrated, they help
the environment by keeping plastic bottles out of the waste stream.
Keep the outdoors great
Spending time in the great outdoors is one of the great joys of summer. But to
keep your enjoyment of the outdoors feeling good, be sure to take some important
items with you when you're out, whether you're hiking a trail in the community
park, frolicking at the community pool, enjoying the kids' summer softball game
or gardening in your own backyard.
Always wear sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays - at least SPF15, but
higher is better. Also carry a sunburn soother, like SunBurnt After-Sun Gel, a
homeopathic extract, to cool, sooth and hydrate your skin to help reduce skin
peeling in case you inadvertently get too much sun.
Take the technology
Technology makes our lives easier in so many ways, and you can use some of your
favorite high-tech items to make your summer stay-at-home vacation more
enjoyable.
Carry the flat-screen TV and DVD player out to the backyard and set up a summer
movie night for the whole family. Or rent a projector and screen for a more
theater-like experience. Keep your favorite music player on hand for spinning
tunes when you're enjoying the backyard, whether it's watching the kids play in
the kiddie pool or hosting a sophisticated adults-only barbecue for some close
friends.
When you're on the go, your iPod or MP3 player can help keep summer moving with
great music. For times when you don't want to share your music, opt for
earphones and try an accessory like Spot for Earphones that will keep cords
tangle free. The Spot clips to shirts, pants or shorts and keeps earphone wires
tangle free.
Courtesy of ARAcontent |
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RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Aida's Corn, Tomato and Avocado Salad
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients
For the dressing:
1 1/2 cups packed
fresh cilantro
1/2 cup good-quality
extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh
lime juice
1 teaspoon finely
grated lime zest
Kosher salt and
freshly ground pepper
For the salad:
4 ears corn, kernels
removed (about 3 cups)
1 1/2 pounds grape
tomatoes, halved (about 3 cups)
1 pound fresh
mozzarella, diced
2 medium avocados,
diced
Directions
Combine the dressing
ingredients in a blender, using 2 teaspoons salt, and pepper to taste; process
until smooth. Combine the salad ingredients in a large bowl and toss with the
dressing. Let sit at least 15 minutes before serving, or cover and refrigerate
for up to 4 hours.
Courtesy of:
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/aida-mollenkamp/aidas-corn-tomato-and-avocado-salad-recipe/index.html
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About NARI
Mid-Maryland
When you work with a NARI Professional you get.... A
full-time, dedicated remodeling professional who has experience, and voluntarily
adheres to NARI’s strict Code of Ethics. NARI’s screening process offers this
assurance. NARI members have access to the latest information in the industry
through publications, educational programs, educational seminars and
conferences.
NARI is a not-for-profit trade association with more
than 50 years of industry experience. NARI represents professional remodeling
contractors, product manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, trade
publications, utilities and lending institutions. The association is committed
to enhancing the professionalism of the remodeling industry
and serving as an ally to you, the homeowner.
The statements or views expressed in the NARI
Newsletter are those of the authors and may not necessarily reflect the official
policy or views of the NARI Mid-Maryland Chapter. To receive this newsletter via
e-mail please send an e-mail request to NARI at
info@marylandnari.org – subject line
– NARI Newsletter with your information.
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MEMBER ADS
 |
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Visit us at
www.MarylandNARI.org
to contact our members.
Members of NARI Mid-Maryland
Chapter
*
Accu-Build,
Inc. *
ADI
Corporation *
All
Aspects Waterproofing
*
Artelye
Marble & Granite
*
Atlantic Coast Remodeling, Inc.
*
Barrons
Lumber/Barrons Custom Kitchens
*
Carriage
Hill Cabinet Co. *
Creative
Concepts Remodeling, Inc.
*
D. G. Liu
Contractor, Inc.
*
Dertzbaugh
Plumbing *
Designer Surfaces Unlimited, Inc.
*
Dorman
Builders, Inc.
*
Downs &
Associates, Inc.
*
EmbroidMe
*
Ferguson
Enterprises
* Frederick County Bank
* Glory Energy Solutions LLC *
Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County, MD
*
Houseworks
Unlimited, Inc. *
J.Allen
Smith Design Build, LLC *Jones Homes,
LLC
*
Kitchen
Solvers of Myersville *
Lane & Sons
Painting, Inc. *
M & R
Floors, Inc.
*
M.V.
Pelletier, Inc.
*
Mark
Folsom Builders, Inc. * Mount Garage Doors, Inc.
* NE " Bob" Waltz Plumbing &
Heating, Inc. *
Paul Davis
Restoration & Remodeling
*
PC3 Limited,
Inc. dba Innovative Homes
*
Perrine
Design *
Pleasant Hills Custom Builders
*
Preferred
Construction, Inc.
*
R.B. Hill
Photography, LLC
*
Filomena
Thompson, RE/MAX
Results *
Reico
Kitchen & Bath *
RJZ Home
Improvements, LLC
*
Stohlman
Custom Cabinetry, LLC
*
Stonemark
Tile LLC *
T. W.
Perry, Inc.
*
Talon
Construction, Inc.
*
Tomlinson
Builders, Inc. *
Trademark
Remodeling, Inc.
*
Wellborn
Cabinet, Inc. *
Winchester
Woodworking *
Window Nation
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