2018 Spring Home Improvement

&CAR CARE 2018

Bryan Lyons - Woodville T Reporter
Edgerton Waterville O www.thevillagereporter.com
G
419-636-4238 419-923-4725 E Edgerton - Bryan
1-800-589-4238 T Pickup & Delivery Available
1-800-589-4725 H
E 419-298-2388
R 1-800-589-1328

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Topics To Discuss Before
Hiring Your Next Mechanic

Few decisions weigh as heavily on automobile own- Stay Safe When Driving In Wet Weather
ers as their choice of mechanic. A good mechanic goes
a long way toward ensuring drivers and their passen- Drivers must modify their driving tions. Roadways accumulate oil and and drive in the direction you want
gers stay safe on the road and that those drivers’ ve- habits when weather compromises engine fluids that can float in rain- to go and slowly ease up on the ac-
hicles perform at their peak for years to come. That’s their visibility and makes road con- water, creating slippery surfaces. celerator.
an important role to play, and it’s why many drivers ditions unsafe. Rain can fall any time
acknowledge that choosing a mechanic is a decision of year, but tends to be most prob- • Reduce speed. The automotive • Skip the cruise control. It’s im-
that should not be taken lightly. lematic in spring. group AAA says hydroplaning, when portant to maintain control over the
the tires rise up on a film of water, vehicle in rainy conditions.
Rest assured you don’t need to be a car guy or gal to To drive safely in the rain and can occur with as little as 1/12 inch
find a trustworthy and talented mechanic. You might avoid accidents, drivers should fol- of water on the road. · Rely on the de- • Maintain tires. Proper inflation
just need to open a dialogue with a prospective me- low certain precautions. fogger. Use the car’s windshield de- and tire tread levels can improve
chanic, discussing a handful of topics that can help froster/defogger to improve visibility. traction. Check tire pressure on all
you feel more comfortable and know you have made • Maintain windshield wipers. In- Turn it on early and keep it on until tires at least once a month. Get an
the right choice in automotive service provider once a spect and, if necessary change wind- the rain has stopped and visibility accurate reading when tires are cold
final decision has been made. shield wipers regularly to ensure has improved. and adjust air pressure accordingly.
they are working optimally. .
CERTIFICATION • Recover from a skid. Skids can Rainy weather can contribute
Certification can go a long way toward helping driv- • Turn on lights with wipers. Re- be frightening, but when skidding, to poor driving conditions. Drivers
ers find mechanics they can trust. The National In- duced visibility is a major contribu- resist any temptation to slam on the should make changes to speed and
stitute for Automotive Service Excellence was founded tor to wet-weather accidents. breaks. Instead, continue to look other factors to make wet weather
in 1972 and continues to work to improve the quality driving as safe as possible.
of automotive service and repair by testing automotive · Recognize changing road condi-
technicians and certifying those who live up to or ex-
ceed ASE standards. An ASE-certified technician should
have his or her credentials readily available to prospec-
tive customers, and these credentials list each profes-
sional’s area of certification. When shopping for a new
mechanic, make sure that he or she is ASE-certified.
In addition, discuss with the mechanic his or her work
history, including any additional areas of expertise.

PRICING POLICIES Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Ride Running Strong
Many mechanics offer free estimates, but that
should not be taken for granted. When bringing a car Motor vehicles are sizable invest- CHECK YOUR FLUIDS ... Checking for leaks and maintaining fluid levels will
in for an estimate, drivers should confirm with the me- ments that, for many people, trail help your vehicle to run smoothly.
chanic who will conduct the examination if the esti- only homes and educations in terms
mate is free or if they will be charged an inspection fee. of the biggest expenses they will ever Whether your vehicle is brand new • Look under the hood as well.
In addition to any fees regarding estimates, drivers have. So it’s in drivers’ best interests or has some tread on its tire, consult While many drivers feel that the area
should also inquire about labor costs and the payment to take every step possible to protect the owner’s manual for manufactur- beneath their vehicles’ hoods is best
policies at the facility. Labor can be quite expensive, their investments and keep their ve- er recommendations with regard to left to the professionals, you can still
so it’s best that you know these rates in advance of hicles running smoothly as long as changing fluids and replacing filters. lift up the hood every so often to see
any repairs being conducted on your vehicle. It’s also possible. While knowledgeable me- Many recent models can now be driven if there are any glaring problems that
important to get a rundown of the company payment chanics can be invaluable resources, roughly 5,000 miles before they need demand attention. Inspect rubber
policies, especially if your vehicle is in need of poten- drivers can take several minor, sim- an oil change, but check your owner’s belts for signs of wear and tear, and
tially costly repairs. You don’t want the bill to shock ple steps to keep their cars running manual for the guidelines established know that such belts may need to be
you once the work has been completed, so don’t hesi- smoothly for years to come. by your vehicle’s manufacturer, and replaced every 50,000 miles or even
tate to be inquisitive before leaving a car at the garage. adhere to that schedule religiously. If more frequently depending on your
• Perform weekly visual inspec- you drive an older car, recognize that driving habits. Lifting the hood is also
PARTS tions. Few drivers take the time to the vehicle may benefit from more fre- necessary when checking fluid levels,
Replacing parts on a vehicle is a cause for concern look at their vehicles once those vehi- quent oil changes and tune-ups. which you should check periodically
for many drivers, and rightfully so. Consumer advo- cles lose their new car luster. But vi- and before and after any long trips.
cacy groups have exposed many mechanics who pass sual inspections can help drivers find In addition, read the manual for
off used auto parts as new parts, charging their cus- problems that, though minor, may additional guidelines, such as how Drivers who notice or suspect
tomers new part prices along the way. While there’s impact their vehicles’ performance. often to replace the air filter, head- damage when performing simple ve-
no way drivers can guarantee they won’t fall victim to For example, a routine examination light, turn signal and brake lamps, hicle maintenance should bring these
such criminal behavior, they can inquire about com- of vehicle tires can indicate if those windshield wipers, and other vehicle concerns to the attention of their me-
pany policies regarding vehicle parts. Does the garage tires are properly inflated. Poorly parts that can wear down over time. chanics as soon as possible.
even install used parts? If so, do they let drivers choose inflated tires can decrease fuel effi-
either new or used parts before any work is done? If ciency and affect the overall safety of
the garage only uses new parts, ask for parts with solid a vehicle. If tires appear flat, check
warranties, so if the part must be replaced, you won’t their pressure and inflate them to the
have to pay for it again. levels listed in your owner’s manual.

DOCUMENTATION • Look for fluid leaks. Another tell-
The preowned vehicle market is thriving, and driv- tale and easily identifiable sign that
ers who take care of their vehicles have earned the a vehicle needs some maintenance is
right to reap their rewards for being good owners when the sight of fluids beneath the car. If
it comes time to sell the car. When interviewing pro- you notice puddles or stains beneath
spective mechanics, ask if they are willing to provide where you normally park your car,
detailed documentation of any work they do on your your vehicle may be leaking fluids.
vehicle. Such documentation can then be shared with Note the color and consistency of the
prospective buyers when you want to sell the car, and fluid and then call your mechanic to
it also serves as a way to keep the garage accountable determine which fluid is leaking .
for all the work they have done on the car throughout
your relationship. • Stick to manufacturer-recom-
mended maintenance schedules.

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Across from Fair Grounds

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2 - SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT & CAR CARE “THE VILLAGE REPORTER” WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14TH, 2018

Weekend Home Improvements

Home improvement projects ramp up when the weath- Suggestions For Homeowners When Shopping For Fencing
er warms up, as homeowners channel the rejuvenating
feelings of spring and tackle their home to-do lists. Large- Fences can improve functionality of a yard and pro-
scale renovations can greatly affect a home, but smaller vide extra security and privacy. Some fences are deco-
projects can yield impressive results and be completed rative while others are functional. Families with chil-
over the course of a single weekend. dren and/or companion animals also may find fencing
is a necessity to keep everyone safe and corralled.
If time is of the essence, these weekend or one-day
projects may satisfy homeowners’ desires to fix up their With a vast array of fencing materials available, ho-
homes. meowners may find it challenging to decide which ma-
terial is right for their properties. The following break-
• Create an accent wall. Painting a focal wall in a home down can help homeowners learn more about fencing
can create a serious impact. The bonus is it will not take and potentially point them in the right direction regard-
as long or require as many materials as painting an entire ing which material to choose for their properties.
room. Accent walls frequently feature a bold color, so de-
cide on placement and tackle this project. BUDGET FENCING ... A post-and-rail fence can be sufficient if the
Budget is one of the first considerations many hom- goal is to mark off property lines but not obscure views.
• Install stair runners. Dress up hardwood stairs with eowners have when installing fencing. Pricing will affect
decorative carpet runners. Runners come in elongated whether one can afford a chain link fence (one of the
pieces of carpeting or individual pieces that can be placed most budget-friendly options), wrought iron or ornate
on each step. Painting individual stair treads also can cre- wood (more expensive). Pricing out several different
ate visual appeal. types of fences will give homeowners an idea of which
material fits into their budgets.
• Dress up the entryway. An entryway is a guest’s first
impression of a home. Many entryways can use a minor PURPOSE other factors that will have to be adhered to so that
overhaul, both inside and outside. Paint the front door a Homeowners install fencing for various reasons. If a fencing will meet code. If such rules are not following
different color so it pops from the curb. Install a new mail- fence is an ornamental way to delineate property lines, fines may be imposed and the fence may have to be
box or decorative house numbers. A new welcome mat a picket fence or a post-and-rail fence are simple op- removed. Homeowners also may need permits to install
can change the look as well. tions that can lend a homey feel to a property. These fencing, whether they are hiring a contractor or doing
types of fences also can enhance and frame landscap- the work themselves.
• Install a new faucet. Instantly improve a kitchen or a ing elements, such as gardens.
bathroom with new fixtures. In many area, laws require homeowners to install MAINTENANCE
fencing around swimming pools. In such instances, Consumer resource Angie’s List advises homeown-
• Create a gallery on the staircase. Gather and arrange chain link fencing that does not obstruct views of the ers to consider maintenance before choosing a fencing
framed photos, artwork or wall accents so that they as- pool might be the best choice. If security or privacy is the material. Wooden fencing requires the most mainte-
cend the wall of a staircase. This creates a designer touch main desire, tall fences that make it difficult for neigh- nance due to painting and staining. Aluminum or vinyl
and can dress up an often barren area of wall space. bors to see into the yard may make an ideal choice. fencing requires less maintenance, but it can be harder
to repair isolated damage or replace pickets, if neces-
• Install a fresh light fixture. Improve drab spaces with RESTRICTIONS sary. In some instances, the entire fence may have to
a little illumination. Better Homes & Gardens suggests It is important to understand local regulations be- be replaced.
replacing an existing fixture with something new and vi- fore installing fencing. Communities governed by hom- Homeowners install fencing for many different rea-
brant. If hanging a new fixture is not within one’s skill eowners’ associations may have rules in place that dic- sons. Considering price, budget, purpose, and mainte-
set, free-standing table or floor lamps also can cast a new tate the type of fences that can be installed. Townships nance before making a decision regarding fencing can
glow on a space. and other municipalities may have their own rules con- help homeowners make the best decision possible.
cerning fence type, property borders, fence height, and
• Add molding. Molding can add instant aesthetic ap-
peal to a room. Molding is appropriate near the floor,
at the top of walls where they meet the ceiling, or even
mid-wall as a chair rail. Some homeowners like to create
framed molding on walls in formal living spaces.

• Update kitchen or bathroom hardware. Replacing
hardware is a fast and easy project, but one that can have
immediate impact. Swap out tired or outdated hardware
for newer metals and more impactful shapes and designs.

Home renovations do not need to take weeks or
months. Many projects can be completed over the course
of a weekend.

Bring Your

Down ToSIZE

RENT THE TOOLS YOU NEED!

How Can A Homeowner Collect & Use Solar Electricity?

Solar panels are seen more and photovoltaic affect. Sunlight shines DC to alternating current, or AC,
more on roofs of residential homes on solar panels, which are mount- the type of power voltage used in a
and even some businesses. ed on the roof of the home or in house, do so by way of an inverter.
Those who are still pondering another prominent location. Each The inverter feeds power to the cir-
the decision to go solar may want panel typically has between 60 cuit board.
to know more about how it works. to 72 solar cells strung together.
Although the guidelines vary de- These photovoltaic cells use the ir- Solar electricity systems are
pending on location and the energy radiation in sunlight to stimulate changing the way people think
company issuing the bill, here are the flow of electrons in the semi- about energy. With the financial
some of the basics. conductor material, which creates motivation to do so, consumers
Solar electricity is generated direct current, or DC, electricity. who embrace solar energy are help-
through a process known as the Systems that directly convert the ing the environment while also sav-
ing money.

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14TH, 2018 “THE VILLAGE REPORTER” SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT & CAR CARE - 3

Composite Decking Can Be A Smart Choice For Homeowners

Decks add charac- them. avoided with composite Composite decks do
ter and functionality to a Composite decking is decks. have a few drawbacks.
home, increasing outdoor any type of decking ma- They can be expensive -
entertaining space and terial that is formulated Composite decking fits nearly double the initial
oftentimes improving the from different recycled in with eco-friendly life- cost of wood decks. And
resale value of a home. materials. The majority styles. The planks are although they don’t rot,
Homeowners have vari- of these materials include made from recycled mate- composite planks can
ous options when choos- hard plastic and wood rials that would normally scratch. Without refinish-
ing decking materials, but shavings of pulp. Unlike end up in landfills. Prod- ing, damaged boards will
one such option, compos- wood, which can fade, ucts from Trex, a popular need to be replaced. Harsh
ite decking, is growing in crack and rot, composite composite decking manu- chemicals may fade color
popularity. decking, which has been facturer, are made from and damage the compos-
available for roughly a 1.5 million shopping bags ite materials, so caution is
Decks used to primari- decade, does not degrade and wood mill waste. As needed.
ly be made from pressure- quickly and requires very composite decks do not Composite decking
treated lumber. While little upkeep. rot away and are long- remains an in-demand
lumber remains a popular Available in a variety lasting, they will not need choice for outdoor spac-
material, more and more of wood colors to match to be replaced frequently, es. Low-maintenance and
homeowners are opting for outdoor decor, compos- which is another eco- long-lasting, these decks
composite decking prod- ite decks also can feature friendly benefit. have quickly become fa-
ucts. As anyone who has artificial wood grains to vorites among homeown- SAVE ... Composite decking can mimic the look of wood,
pressure-washed, stained make them look similar When comparing com- ers. but requires much less maintenance.
and sealed wood decks posite decking brands,
can attest, such spaces to wood planks. Although look mainly at the col-
require lots of upkeep to composite decks are not ors, materials used in Prepare Cooling Systems For Summer
look new year after year. completely impervious to the composition and the
Composite decks require the elements, with some fastening systems. Many
much less maintenance, occasional washing to are fastened with regular One springtime task on homeowners’
making them highly at- impede mold growth and deck screws, offers This to-do lists is checking cooling systems
tractive to homeowners new technology that has Old House. The newer to ensure they are ready for summer.
who would rather spend improved stain-resis- systems have channels for Proper maintenance of cooling systems
time using their decks tance, many of the pitfalls hidden fastening, and the is essential to saving energy and keeping
instead of maintaining of other materials can be composite deck tiles snap utility costs down. Fortunately, home-
into place. owners need not be certified HVAC tech-
nicians to maintain their cooling units.
How To Remedy Landscape Drainage Problems
• Clean filters. Whether a home is
Homeowners understand that reaping SPLASH AND STOMP ... Homeowners who kept cool by a whole-house central air GETTING READY ... As summer approach-
the rewards of beautiful lawns and gar- must wear rain boots to traverse their conditioning system or window units, es, homeowners should prepare their air
dens requires hard work. But sometimes lawns could benefit from a drainage over- clean filters are necessary to keep the conditioning units for the months ahead.
even hard work won’t be enough to pre- haul. units working efficiently. Routinely re- heat, compromising its ability to work
vent problems in a lawn or garden. protect against soil erosion and may placing or cleaning filters is one of the effectively. Some homeowners prefer to
absorb enough water to guard against most important maintenance tasks to cover their condensers at the end of the
Drought can be very harmful to lawns puddling. In addition, amending the soil improve airflow and increase efficiency. cooling season to keep leaves and dirt
and gardens, but so, too, can exces- with organic matter, pea gravel or an- The U.S. Office of Energy Efficiency & out of the unit.
sive amounts of water and precipitation. other coarse aggregate can prevent wa- Renewable Energy says replacing a dirty,
Soggy properties can make it difficult for ter pooling. clogged filter with a clean one can lower • Check window unit seals. When
lawns and gardens to thrive. According an air conditioner’s energy consumption installing window units, make sure all
to Lowes, in addition to killing lawn and When confronted with drainage is- by anywhere from 5 to 15 percent. seals around the air conditioner are in
other plants, standing water on a proper- sues that cannot be remedied by other place to prevent cool-air loss.
ty can be a health hazard. That’s because methods, homeowners may need to in- • Know the square footage. When re-
standing water makes a prime breeding stall drainage systems. Such systems of- placing a cooling system, have an un- • Hire a technician. Air conditioner
ground for mosquito larvae and other ten employ French drains that are built derstanding of the size of your home (or technicians can be very helpful and will
pests. through or around the perimeter of a room if installing an window unit). De- know how to prepare a system for hot
property. French drains are typically a termine the area of the home so you buy weather. Technicians typically conduct
While homeowners cannot control pre- trench that contains perforated plastic a unit that suits your needs. Air condi- multipoint inspections and measure
cipitation, they can affect the impact that pipe and is backfilled with gravel. Water tioners use BTUs (British Thermal Units) such things as refrigerant levels and
rainwater has on their properties. runs into these channels and gets swept to define cooling power. The more BTUs, duct leakage. Airflow through the evapo-
away by the piping. Do-it-yourselfers the larger the space that can be cooled. rator coil also may be checked. If a ho-
Gutters and downspouts are de- may want to try installing drainage sys- However, homeowners do not want to meowner suspects the thermostat is not
signed to move rainwater away from the tems themselves. However, because ex- exceed the necessary cooling power. working properly, a technician can verify
home. Too often, however, gutters and cavation is necessary, it’s often best to This leads to energy waste. EnergyStar. if that is true and even install a new one
downspouts become clogged or do not have the property inspected and marked gov can help homeowners find the right if necessary.
work effectively. Overflowing gutters will for utilities, then have the drainage sys- cooling system for their needs.
transfer rainwater down the side of a tem installed by professionals. As summer approaches, homeown-
home, where it can puddle at the foun- • Inspect system coils. The evapora- ers should prepare their air conditioning
dation. This water can ultimately suffo- Landscaping does not need to be de- tor and condenser coils on air condition- units for the busy months ahead.
cate a lawn, and it may cause interior railed by drainage issues. Explore the ers can collect dirt, even when filters are
damage to the home as well. remedies that can easily fix the prob- maintained. Dirty coils are less efficient
lems. at absorbing heat, so periodically re-
First, inspect and clean all gutters. move the dirt. Outdoor coils can be kept
Leaves, nests, sticks, and even dead ani- cleaner by cutting back foliage from the
mals can block the flow of water in a gut- unit to allow better air flow.
ter. Test downspouts by running hose
water from the top of the gutter. • Inspect condensate drains. Energy.
gov also suggests making sure conden-
Downspouts should be pointed away sate drains, which take moisture pulled
from the home and may need to be ex- from the air away, are functioning prop-
tended so they direct water away. erly. If they’re clogged, they may not be
effective at reducing humidity in a home,
In some instances, whether it’s a by- and they may even leak.
product of poor property grade or slop-
ing land, water can pool regardless of • Clear debris. Remove fallen leaves
how well the gutter system is working. or other plant material from condenser
Determine where the problem is and units and fan blades. Obstructed com-
speak with a landscaper to see if there ponents can cause the system to retain
are any plants that thrive in moist con-
ditions. The roots of these plants can

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4 - SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT & CAR CARE “THE VILLAGE REPORTER” WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14TH, 2018

Why Building Permits? What To Look For When Shopping For A Fire Pit

The outdoor fire pit has transformed the concept of
backyard entertaining. Homeowners understand how a
fire pit can add value to a home and make their yard
an inviting place to be on a summer evening or a chilly
autumn night.
Fire pits can add a lot to a home’s exterior entertain-
ing area. Some fire pit styles and materials will last lon-
ger than others. Homeowners should assess their needs
and the space available before choosing a fire pit for
their home.
First, homeowners must decide if they want a perma-
nent or portable fire pit.
Portable fire pits are freestanding units that can be
moved around the yard on a whim. They also can be
loaded into the car and taken to a neighbor’s house or
even to the beach. Portable fire pits are less expensive
than permanent models, and some homeowners prefer GREAT PLACE FOR GATHERING ... Fire pits have become
a trial run with a portable pit before deciding to install a popular for gatherings and family entertainment.
PROTECT YOUR PROJECT ... Obtain the proper permits permanent structure. ences and size constraints.
before beginning construction.
Portable fire pits are made of metal and usually coat-
ed with a fireproof paint. Over time, exposure to the ele- Once you have chosen a fire pit, safety should pre-
The correct way to be- lem before it becomes a ments can cause the metal to rust or weaken, something vail. Here are some tips to consider.
gin a home remodeling larger headache. If left un- homeowners should consider prior to purchase.
project is to obtain the checked, an electrical er- • Keep the fire pit away from the home and objects
necessary permits for the ror could lead to a fire or Homeowners also must consider a fuel source. Wood that can burn. Maintain a safe distance from the fire pit
job. Many municipalities another dangerous situa- is a common fuel source for fire pits. Wood can be inex- at all times.
request individuals ob- tion. Repairs that are not pensive, especially when gathered from around the yard.
tain permits for a range structurally sound may However, a wood-burning fire will constantly have to be • The best place to have the fire pit is on hard stone,
of work on homes or other pose problems or dete- fed with new branches. If you want to have a roaring fire cement or tile. Portable fire pits can be placed on patio
structures, such as of- riorate more quickly than but don’t want to maintain it, then a gas-fueled fire pit stones in the lawn.
fice buildings. Permits are structures that are con- is better. Natural gas fire pits can run off of a portable
generally required for all structed correctly. Catch- propane tank (think barbecue tank) or be directly con- • Use a screen to keep embers and sparks from es-
new construction as well ing improper technique nected to a home’s natural gas supply. caping during use.
as specific modifications early on eliminates hav-
that will affect structural, ing to tear down and redo Now you can decide on the style. Gas fire pits will • Keep children a good distance away from the fire pit
plumbing, mechanical, work, which can be costly give you a greater number of design options, but there and always supervise when the pit is in use.
and electrical systems. It’s and time-consuming. are still plenty of choices with wood fire pits. From bowl-
important to check with shaped pits to rectangular-shaped pits to barrel-style • Make sure the fire is completely extinguished before
the local building office NO FINES pits to chimneys, there are designs to fit most prefer- going in for the night.
prior to beginning work to Sometimes work goes
see which permits you will as planned even for ho- • Do not use any accelerants.
need before the project can meowners who did not • Buy a vinyl cover to protect the fire pit from the ele-
begin. obtain the necessary per- ments when not in use.
mits. However, years later,
Due to the cost and when other work needs to How To Simplify Any Paving Stone Installation
time involved with secur- be done, inspectors may
ing permits, some hom- discover homeowners nev- Paving stones can add beauty to need. Have the materials delivered tions should be between four and
eowners skip this step so er secured proper permits walkways, driveways and backyard to reduce heavy lifting and trips to six inches deep. Work incremen-
they can begin a project and inspections years ear- patios, providing that eye-catching the store. Be sure to have all utility tally, raking and tamping until the
promptly. However, this lier, leading to fines. finishing touch to a property while lines marked prior to excavation to base is firm. Lightly wetting the ma-
can end up being a costly Furthermore, if work is enhancing its curb appeal. avoid damage. terial can help it solidify.
mistake. Permits might done without a permit and
seem like a nuisance, but an accident occurs, any To begin a paver project, hom- One of the most important as- Sand helps inhibit weed growth
they actually protect hom- damages or injuries may eowners will need to stock up on pects of paver installation involves and anchor the pavers together.
eowners in various ways. not be covered by a hom- some supplies they may not already preparing the base. If you cut cor- Plastic lining will not be practical.
eowner’s insurance policy. have at home. Marking paint, ma- ners in this process, the finished re-
Permits are an impor- son line, wooden stakes, leveling sults can be sloppy, weeds can grow Use edge restraints and a string
sand, paver base, and more will be through and/or stones may loosen. line to keep the design straight. Do
tant part of the home im- required. A manual tamper can be not hammer the pavers together.
provement process. The used. However, for larger areas, it It’s essential to grade the area Paver sand will need to be swept
permit and inspection pro- away from the house. This allows over and settled between the stones
cess is in place to provide can be worth the cost to rent a plate proper water runoff. Mark the height to help set them in place.
PERMITS ENSURE SAFE protection to occupants. compactor. on the stakes and adjust the mason It helps to read tutorials and
WORKMANSHIP line. Remember to slope the area
Spray or mark the area where away from your home with a drop- watch videos on paving stone in-
Permits provide a blue- the paving stones will be laid. Mea- off of about one inch for every 8 feet. stallation prior to beginning the
print by which contractors sure carefully so you can order project. With practice, the installa-
and do-it-yourselfers must exactly how many stones you will The base of many DIY applica- tion will go more smoothly.
complete renovations. Be-
cause inspections will take
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14TH, 2018 “THE VILLAGE REPORTER” SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT & CAR CARE - 5

The Benefits Of Hiring Professional Contractors Antimicrobial Tiles Help Create Sanitary Spaces

The DIY movement has A GOOD INVESTMENT ... Hiring someone with know how Tile can be a worthy addition to rooms of potentially harsh chemical detergents.
inspired many homeown- can save time and money. with potential moisture issues or areas Others treatments may protect against
ers to tackle home repair in a home that may routinely necessi- yeast, molds and fungi that can cause
and remodeling projects tate quick cleanup. Because they are not stains and odors and result in the deg-
on their own. DIY proj- damaged by constant contact with wa- radation of tile.
ects can be rewarding, ter, tiled floors and walls are often found
and many homeowners in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, Antimicrobial ceramic tile can be ad-
who have embraced the and entryways. vantageous in rooms where sanitation
DIY movement have dis- and hygiene are an utmost priority.
covered talents they never Although tile is resilient, it is not im-
before knew they had. pervious to the microorganisms that A potential side effect of antimicro-
tend to proliferate in areas where mois- bial tile is a reduction in reliance on
But no matter how ture and humidity are commonplace. harsh cleaning products. Although regu-
simple popular home ren- lar washing is recommended, residents
ovation television shows Various manufacturers have devel- may not need to use odoriferous or
make remodeling proj- oped their own innovative tile that con- strong chemical cleaners to sanitize their
ects appear, homeowners tributes to cleaner, and sometimes more homes. This helps improve indoor air
should know that such eco-friendly, home environments. The quality and reduce the potential contam-
undertakings are far more application of certain treatments can ination of the environment from chemi-
difficult than they appear make ceramic tiles even more impervi- cal runoff.
on television. Homeown- ous to water and moisture. Some tile
ers who overestimate their may help reduce the spread of certain Homeowners thinking of installing
abilities and the time they strains of bacteria, such as E. coli and antimicrobial tile in their homes should
have to complete proj- staph, without requiring the application discuss their options with a tile retailer
ects can cost themselves or contractor during the planning stages.
substantial amounts of
money. In fact, there are projects that homeown- eowners because contrac- Preseason Sale March 10th thru March 24th
a variety of reasons ho- ers might otherwise never tors buy in bulk. So while
meowners might want to have thought up on their labor costs might be lower
work with professional own. Homeowners without on DIY projects, the cost
contractors when tackling specific ideas in mind can of materials can offset
home improvement proj- ask contractors to come those savings.
ects. up with various scenar-
ios before committing to RESALE VALUE
a particular one. Veteran Many homeowners
contractors can draw on renovate their homes
years of experience to cre- with eyes on improving
EXPERIENCE ate designs that DIYers the resale value of those
A trial and error ap- might be incapable of homes. But if homeown-
proach can work with coming up with and/or in-
various projects and prob- capable of seeing through ers want to showcase a
to completion. newly remodeled kitchen
lems. But applying such when selling their homes, ZT-X
an approach to home
improvement projects they should be prepared
for prospective buyers to
is risky and potentially COST
Conventional wisdom ask who worked on the
dangerous, not to men- suggests it’s less expen- project. Fearing potential
tion costly. Experienced
professional contractors sive to do something your- problems down the road,
self than to hire someone some buyers might be put
with strong track records else to do it for you, but off by homes that were
(seek recommendations
from friends or neighbors) that’s not necessarily true remodeled by DIYers and
of home improvement not professional contrac-
won’t have to go through projects. Labor costs typi- tors.
trial and error and are
therefore more likely than cally account for a sub- Renovating a home on
stantial amount of pro- your own can be a reward-
DIYers to complete a proj- fessionally contracted ing project for homeown-
ect on time and on budget.
projects, but homeowners ers. But it’s important
can cut those costs by vol- that homeowners recog-
INSPIRATION unteering to do some of nize the many benefits of
One oft-overlooked the simpler tasks them- working with professional
benefit of working with selves. In addition, con- contractors before making
professional contractors tractors often purchase any final decisions with ADVERSTTISAERDTINPGRAICTE
is the likelihood that they materials at a much lower regard to who will tackle
can draw up ideas for cost than individual hom- their next project. $2,899.00

Great Ideas To Help Freshen Up Fully Welded Tubular Frame

This fully welded tubular frame is a professional-grade backbone

Your Home For The Spring Season tough enough to get the job done in your backyard.

add new bursts of color to draperies or new blinds Dual Arm Deck Lift
rooms. You may be able or shades can trans-
to make over a room’s form the look of a room. The dual arm deck lift features a 4-point hanging system for deck
stability and even cutting performance.

entire color scheme with Be sure to keep curtains
new pillows. Invest in pil- and blinds open during
lows that you can switch the day to maximize the
with each season so your hours of sunlight.
decor will never look tired Homeowners can
or dull. make some simple chang-
• Clean existing light es while they’re stuck in- B & G Outdoor
doors and reap the ben-
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brighten the mood in a warms up again. 419-924-5210 | http://www.bgoutdoorpower.com
home is to periodically
clean light fixtures to
make sure they are work-
ing effectively. Spend
time dusting them and
cleaning off any accu- Come see us at
mulated debris. If need BRYAN BUSINESS
be, switch out old lamp
shades for newer ones & INDUSTRY SHOW
A GOOD CLEANING ... You that let more light shine Friday March 23 & 24
may be surprised at how through. If inadequate 11am-7pm • 10am-3pm
clean and fresh a home lighting is a problem no
feels once rugs and car- matter how many lamps
pets are deep-cleaned. you have, consult with an

After a few months electrician about install- AUTHORIZED DEALER
of chilly temperatures, ing more overhead and
come spring, many ho- accent lighting. 107 Linden St.
meowners are eager to West Unity, Ohio 43570
throw open their windows • Give rugs and floors
and doors and breathe a deep cleaning. Recir- The Best Service in NW Ohio
new life into their homes. culated air may be full
Simple changes made of dust and other micro- Office Jay Trisel TOll free
now - even before the scopic particles that end (419) 924-5533 866-906-9589
weather begins to warm up blowing throughout www.ajdoorllc.com
up - can improve interior your home. Also, it’s easy cell fax
spaces and brighten the to track in dirt and other (419) 630-6228 (419) 924-5023
atmosphere of a home. materials on your shoes
that become imbedded in
• Go plant shopping. carpeting. At least once
Research from NASA sug- a year, rent or enlist the
gests adding at least one surfaces of carpet and
plant in your home per upholstery cleaners to
100 square feet is effi- give floors a thorough
cient enough to clean air. cleaning.
Fresh foliage also makes
a home feel warm and • Color-coordinate
inviting. Watering and bookshelves. Group all
misting plants introduces books with similarly col-
moisture into indoor air, ored covers together for
which can make rooms an instant and eye-ap-
overcome with dry air pealing look.
from heating systems feel
comfortable. Just be sure • Simmer some home-
to avoid over watering made home deodorizer.
plants, which can lead to In a large pot, boil water
mold growth. and some scented herbs,
such as rosemary, citrus
• Swap out throw pil- rinds, vanilla, or laven-
lows. Accent pillows on der. The aroma will waft
beds and sofas are quick through the home, creat-
and inexpensive ways to ing a pleasing scent.

• Invest in new window
treatments. Lightweight

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6 - SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT & CAR CARE “THE VILLAGE REPORTER” WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14TH, 2018

Some Basic Tips For How To Survive A Home Renovation

Homeowners invest large sums into improving their HAVE EVERYTHING IN PLACE . when delays happen.
homes to make them more comfortable living spaces or Before demolition even begins, have building mate- PLAN AN ESCAPE ZONE
to increase their odds of selling quickly. The Remodel- rials bought and stored, contractors and subcontrac-
ing Futures Program at the Joint Center for Housing tors lined up, and see what you can do to minimize the Construction environments can be messy, loud,
Studies of Harvard University predicted U.S. spending time workers need to spend in your home. smelly, and a host of other unsavory adjectives. The
on home renovations and repairs to peak at $327 bil- chaos that ensues when life is turned upside down
lion in 2017. EXPECT DELAYS. can be overwhelming, particularly for the person who
In a world where things move at lightning speeds, spends the most time in the home while work is being
Whether one is doing a large renovation or a small renovations have not gotten the memo. Home projects done. Build escape moments into the plan and make
remodel, life may be turned upside down during the take lots of time and will likely take longer if you are sure everyone else at home is on board. During the real
project. Furniture may be moved out of the room, walls doing the work yourself in your free time. Build lots of grind of the project, a night or two at a hotel may be a
may be demolished, water or electricity may be turned extra time into the project so you are not disappointed welcome respite.
off, and appliances may be missing or not hooked up.
Home improvements often drum up dust and disarray.
Such projects can try the patience of any homeowner,
and things may get worse before they get better.

Even though remodeling can be taxing, the end re-
sult is often worth it. Here’s how to look forward to the
silver lining and come out unscathed.

DISCUSS THE PROJECT BEFORE IT STARTS.
All family members should be in agreement before
the first hammer is swung. Decide on as many details
as you can ahead of time and have a firm plan in place.
Establish back-up choices for tiles or color schemes in
case the items you want are out of stock. Trying to make
decisions under duress may result in bad choices.

DO ONE PROJECT AT A TIME. Distinctive Roof has been blessed with a growing customer base and now we want to give back.
It’s tempting to want to improve as much as pos-
sible at once to maximize motivation and renovation • Know someone that has suffered a hardship that HERE IS HOW IT WORKS!
materials. However, having no place in which to escape make replacing their roof seem unattainable?
the mess can elevate stress levels. Do not think about ~ Nominate them. Now through May 31st - Collect Nominations
renovating kitchens and bathrooms all at once, or you
will not have any working fixtures for tasks like wash- • Know someone that always puts others ahead of The Nomination Form can be found on our
ing up. themselves and deserves a thank you?
~ Nominate them. Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/Distinctiveroof/

• Know of a non-profit entity that runs on a June 1st – 15th Review Nominations
shoestring budget?
~ Nominate them. Nominations will be review and 4 finalists selected

June 16th- July 13th Vote to Select winner

Online voting will be held

July 21st Recipient Announced

Results of the online voter will determine

recipient of Free Roof

August Roof Installed

Recipient will have a new roof professionally

installed by Distinctive Roof Services

SURVIVAL ... Planning, patience and an understand-
ing of what the project entails can make home im-
provements easier to survive.

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14TH, 2018 “THE VILLAGE REPORTER” SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT & CAR CARE - 7

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8 - SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT & CAR CARE “THE VILLAGE REPORTER” WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14TH, 2018