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Published by Cape Gazette, 2026-03-09 16:15:58

Spring Home and Garden

Spring Home and Garden

HOME + GARDEN | 51• Irrigation install, service and maintenance • Irrigation start-ups and winterizations• Grass cutting and turf management applications• Aerating and overseeding or sod installation• Landscaping cleanup, mulching, and installation• Hardscaping and landscape lightingCall us for all your landscaping needs! Licensed and Insured • 302-645-8100 • [email protected]


52 | HOME +GARDENHOME + GARDEN302-539-1839 inlandbaysgardencenter.com [email protected] Muddy Neck Road Frankford DE(2 miles west of Bethany Beach)The Largest Collection of Native Plantson DelmarvaLandscape Design ✿ Garden Coaching ✿ Workshops/ClassesLocal Garden GemsThe summer vistas at Mill Pond Garden are stunning.Mill Pond GardenA hidden gem open only on select days, this private garden features woodland paths, water features and carefully curated plantings. It’s proof that thoughtful design can turn a residential yard into a true garden destination.Limited open days Lewes


HOME + GARDEN | 53Pruning • TrimmingRemoval • Storm Damage 24/7 Emergency Services302.732.3227www.cypresstreecare.com [email protected] YOUR PROPERTY NEED A TREE CAREPROFESSIONAL?Cypress Tree Care brings over 30 years of green industry and tree work experience to every job, client and problem to solve. Let our industry leading professionals service your account and solve your Arboricultural issues. We offer a full range of urban forestry management including hazard mitigation, pruning, removal, pest/disease treatment, stump grinding, and development of forestry inventories and management plans.


54 | HOME +GARDENHOME + GARDENYour Local Supplier For BuildingMaterials & Hardware302-645-2233 - 18744 John J. Williams Hwy. Rehoboth• Hardware• Cabinets• Plywood• siding• windows• sHingles• deCking• tools• Paint• doors• lumber• treated lumberLocal Garden GemsThis drone view shows the Piet Oudolf Meadow at Delaware Botanic Gardens. Delaware Botanic Gardens at Pepper CreekDesigned by renowned plantsman Piet Oudolf, these gardens showcase sweeping meadows of native grasses and perennials. Seasonal blooms, wide walking paths and naturalistic design make this a must-see for anyone interested in modern landscape trends.Open spring through fall | Dagsboro


HOME + GARDEN | 55See khov.com for full details. Artist renderings and photographs; illustrative purposes only. K. Hovnanian's® Four Seasons communities are intended to provide housing primarily for residents 55 years of age or older. Additional restrictions, including limitations on the ages of additional permanent and temporary residents of a home, may apply. All K. Hovnanian's Four Seasons communities shall be operated as agerestricted communities in compliance with all applicable local, state and federal laws. Limited exceptions for residents 50 years of age or older may apply. See a Community Sales Consultant for details. Views not guaranteed; subject to change. Maps subject to change without notice and may not be to scale. See a Sales Consultant for full details. Equal Housing Opportunity.Explore our array of floorplans, locations, and price points - we have something for everyone!


56 | HOME +GARDENHOME + GARDENSpring Home ChecklistSpring is more than a time for fresh air and open windows. It’s also one of the best opportunities to check in on the systems that quietly keep a home running. While many homeowners focus on visible projects like landscaping or paint, some of the most important spring tasks happen behind the scenes and are easy to overlook.A seasonal checklist helps catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs, especially after winter weather and before the demands of the busy summer season.Start With the BasicsSpring is a good time to walk the exterior of your home. Look for loose siding, cracked trim, damaged shingles and clogged gutters. Clear debris from downspouts and make sure water is draining away from the foundation. These simple checks help prevent moisture problems that often show up later in the year.Check the HVAC SystemBefore air conditioners work overtime, replace filters and consider a professional tune-up. Dirty filters reduce efficiency and strain the system, while routine maintenance can extend equipment life and improve indoor air quality. Many homeowners wait until something breaks, but spring service often prevents mid-summer failures.Don’t Forget the Water HeaterWater heaters tend to be ignored until they stop working. Spring is a good time to check the unit’s age, inspect for leaks and flush the tank to remove sediment buildup. Sediment reduces efficiency and shortens the lifespan of the heater. If your unit is more than 10 to 12 years old, it may be time to plan for replacement rather than waiting for an emergency.continued ▶▶▶Some of the most important spring home tasks happen behind the scenes and are easy to overlook.


HOME + GARDEN | 57Yard Waste RemovalPruning Lawn CareMaintenance ServicesDrainage SolutionsLandscaping & HardscapingIrrigation And more!This Spring... Relaxand let D.R.’s do the work!drslawnmaintenance.com302-245-9938


58 | HOME +GARDENHOME + GARDENSchedule Your Spring Yard Clean-Up Today!Serving Sussex County, DE & Surrounding AreasCALL OR TEXT: 302-245-7262GODWINLANDSERVICES.COMServicesBRUSH CLEARINGGRADING YARD MAINTENANCE DRIVEWAY SERVICES FIREWOOD SALES & DELIVERYSNOW REMOVALGRASS CUTTINGSeptic Systems Need Attention TooSeptic systems are one of the most overlooked parts of home maintenance. Many homeowners don’t realize septic tanks should typically be pumped every three to five years, depending on household size and usage. Spring is ideal for scheduling service, especially before summer guests increase water use. Ignoring septic maintenance can lead to backups, odors and costly repairs.Inspect Plumbing and Water UseCheck under sinks, around toilets and near appliances for signs of leaks or moisture. Small drips waste water and can cause long-term damage. Spring is also a good time to inspect outdoor faucets and irrigation systems for freeze damage before regular use begins.Test Safety EquipmentSmoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms and fire extinguishers should be checked at least once a year. Replace batteries, confirm expiration dates and make sure alarms are placed correctly throughout the home. These tasks are quick but critical.Look at the Attic and Crawl SpaceThese areas often go unchecked. Look for signs of moisture, mold, pests or insulation problems. Proper ventilation and insulation help regulate temperature and prevent damage as warmer weather arrives.Plan Ahead, Not Just ReactSpring checklists are about awareness as much as action. Even if everything looks fine, knowing the condition and age of major systems allows homeowners to plan upgrades on their timeline rather than reacting to sudden failures.As the season shifts and homes open up for spring and summer living, a thoughtful review helps ensure everything is working as it should. Addressing the items many homeowners forget can make the difference between a smooth season and unexpected repairs later on. Small checks now prevent big repairs later.


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60 | HOME +GARDENHOME + GARDENOld Favorites, New DirectionsHOW HOME DECOR CONTINUES TO EVOLVEOpen Shelving Everywhere →Selective DisplayOpen shelving introduced an airy look, especially in kitchens. Today, homeowners are choosing a balance. A few open shelves for everyday pieces or display items, paired with closed cabinetry, offer the same light feel with better functionality.Barn Doors →Pocket and Panel DoorsBarn doors added visual interest and saved space, but concerns about privacy and sound control have shifted preferences. Pocket doors, glass panels and traditional hinged doors now offer cleaner lines and improved performance.Matching Furniture Sets →Collected InteriorsPerfectly matched furniture is being replaced by more layered, collected looks. Mixing styles, finishes and materials creates spaces that feel personal and lived-in rather than staged.Fast Trend Decor → Long-Term PiecesDecor driven purely by trends is being replaced by investment pieces chosen for quality and longevity. Homeowners are prioritizing items that can move from room to room and adapt as styles change.Strong Themes → Flexible DesignHighly themed rooms are evolving into more continued ▶▶▶Home design is always changing, often in subtle ways. Styles that once felt fresh don’t disappear overnight. Instead, they gradually make room for new approaches that better fit how people live today. Looking at old versus new design trends isn’t about replacing everything at once. It’s about understanding how preferences are shifting and how homes are adapting over time.All-Gray Spaces → Warmer NeutralsGray remains a useful neutral, but rooms built entirely around cool gray tones are giving way to warmer palettes. Soft whites, greige, clay and sand tones bring more depth and warmth while still providing a clean, flexible foundation.


HOME + GARDEN | 61302-212-5742 | rehoboth.certapro.comPainting your home during this time of year has its benefits! The lighting and lower humidity of the season provide an ideal environment for great coverage and quick drying times. Get started with a FREE estimate from CertaPro Painters® of Rehoboth.WINTER IS A GREAT TIME TO PAINT!$200 OFFYour Painting Project**Offer applied to your painting project of $2,000 or more. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Not valid on current estimates. Available atparticipating CertaPro Painters® businesses. Expires 3/01/18.Each CertaPro Painters® business is independently owned and operated.Each CertaPro Painters® business is independently owned and operated.Inside or out, the professionals at CertaPro Painters® of Rehoboth deliver quality work, professional service, and an unmatched painting experience every time. SCHEDULE NOW FOR ANEW LOOK THIS • Residential and Commercial Painting• Interior and Exterior Painting• Drywall Repair• Wallpaper Removal• Carpentry Services• Color Consultation• Power Washing• Locally Owned & Operated• Deck Staining$200 OFFYour Painting Project*302-212-5742 | rehoboth.certapro.comEach CertaPro Painters® business is independently owned and operated.SCHEDULE NOW FOR ANEW LOOK THIS • Residential and Commercial Painting• Interior and Exterior Painting• Drywall Repair• Wallpaper Removal• Carpentry Services• Color Consultation• Power Washing • Locally Owned & Operated• Deck Staining $200 OFFYour Painting Project*We’re booking now for Spring - request your FREE estimate!SCHEDULE NOW FOR ANEW LOOK THIS SPRING302-212-5742 | CertaPro.com/delawareInside or out, the professionals at CertaPro Painters® of Delaware deliver quality work, professional service, and an extraordinary painting experience every time.Old Favorites, New DirectionsHOW HOME DECOR CONTINUES TO EVOLVE


62 | HOME +GARDENHOME + GARDENGRAYWOOD SPRINGS • 3 MILES FROM LEWESYour Veteran BuilderYEARSYears• 1/2 Acre Lots • Low HOA • Customizable Designs from the Low $600’s• First Floor Owner’s SuitesEscape the crowds without leaving the area at Graywood Springs—a private community of 39 homes designed as a retreat.FESTIVAL ENERGY.EVERYDAY Serenity.Model Open Daily 10-5302-505-1266 14689 Oyster Rocks Rd.Milton, DE 19968 TimberlakeHomes.comflexible spaces. Instead of designing around one concept, homeowners are choosing versatile foundations that allow art, textiles and accessories to change over time.Shiplap Everywhere →Thoughtful TextureShiplap remains a classic detail, but its use has become more restrained. Accent walls, subtle paneling and mixed textures now provide interest without overwhelming a space.A Natural ShiftDesign trends don’t disappear because they failed. They change because homes and lifestyles change. Updating a space doesn’t require a full overhaul. Often, small adjustments reflect the move from old to new and help homes feel current while still familiar.


HOME + GARDEN | 63RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL CLEANING SERVICESwww.heathershomeworks.com | 302-249-7660SUSSEX COUNTYHelping Property Owners in Sussex CountySERVICE AREAS:Impacting Our CommunityCleaning for a Reason is a nationwide nonprofit program offering free professional house cleaning services for cancer patients. Every year, Heather’s Home Works has the opportunity to help amazing and strong fighters.Trusted Local Cleaning Service#1 in Sussex CountyFree QuotesPeace of Mind100% Client SatisfactionYEARSANNIVERSARYLewesRehoboth BeachDeweyLong NeckMillsboroDagsboroGeorgetownBethany (North & South)Ocean ViewMillvilleFrankfordSelbyvilleFenwick IslandSit Back And Relax. Because, We Can Do It!23


64 | HOME +GARDENHOME + GARDENA Homeowner’s Guide to Hiring ContractorsWhat to Ask, What to Avoid and How to Protect Your ProjectGet Multiple EstimatesIt’s wise to speak with at least two or three contractors. Pricing can vary widely, and the lowest bid is not always the best choice. Look for detailed proposals that outline labor, materials, timelines and payment schedules. Vague estimates often lead to change orders and rising costs.Ask the Right QuestionsHomeowners should feel comfortable asking direct questions. Key topics include:• Are you licensed and insured?• Can you provide proof of liability and workers’ compensation coverage?• Do you use subcontractors? If so, who supervises them?• What is the estimated start and completion date?• How will changes or unexpected issues be handled?Clear answers build confidence. Hesitation or defensiveness can signal trouble.Understand the TimelineContractors often schedule projects weeks or months in advance, especially during peak seasons. Ask how long the project will realistically take and whether materials are continued ▶▶▶Hiring a contractor can be one of the most important decisions a homeowner makes. Whether it’s a kitchen renovation, roof replacement or outdoor living upgrade, the right professional can keep a project on schedule and on budget. The wrong one can create delays, unexpected costs and unnecessary stress. A thoughtful approach on the front end makes all the difference.Start With Clear ExpectationsBefore reaching out to contractors, define the scope of your project. Know what you want done, your general budget range and your preferred timeline. Even a rough outline helps contractors provide accurate estimates and reduces confusion later.


HOME + GARDEN | 65Trusted Partner & ResourceOver 20 Years of Experience. Best Warranty in the IndustryLICENSED & INSUREDSENIOR CITIZEN DISCOUNTSCertified Installers Interlocking Concrete Pavement InstituteNational Concrete Management Assoc. Segmental Retaining WallsLocal Family BusinessOn Staff Designers for Landscaping & Hardscaping.FREE ESTIMATESVETERAN DISCOUNTS• Paver Patios & Walkways • Concrete Patios & Walkways• Grill Enclosures & Outdoor Kitchens • Firepits & Fireplaces • Retaining & Seating Walls • Fiberglass Pool Installations• Low Voltage Lighting• Full Landscape Packagesoutdoorlivinghardscapes.com [email protected] LIVING HARDSCAPES LLCOutdoor Living at its Finest!OVER20302-362-3569FIBERGLASS POOLS!THE SOURCE FOR• Black Aluminum & White Vinyl Fences• White Vinyl Pergolas & Showers• White Vinyl Garbage Enclosures• New Irrigation Systems & Open/Close • French Drains & Dry Wells• Ponds & Waterfalls• Spring & Fall Clean Up• Stone - Mulch - Sod - Plants - Trees


66 | HOME +GARDENHOME + GARDEN95 Tulip Dr. Lewes, DE 19958 Monday - Fri 9 - 4:30 | Sat 9 - 3APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE302-644-8302 • henlopencountertops.comGraniteQuartz Marble Quartzite Family Operated & Women Owned!readily available. Delays sometimes happen, but experienced contractors communicate changes promptly rather than leaving homeowners guessing.Be Cautious With DepositsA deposit is normal, but it should be reasonable. Large upfront payments can be a red flag. Many reputable contractors structure payments in phases tied to completed work rather than collecting most of the cost at the beginning.Insist on a Written ContractEvery project, no matter the size, should include a written agreement. It should clearly outline scope of work, materials, payment schedule, start and completion dates, and warranty details. Verbal agreements leave too much room for misunderstanding.Watch for Red FlagsCertain warning signs should not be ignored. Be cautious if a contractor:• Pressures you to decide immediately• Refuses to provide references• Cannot show proof of insurance• Asks for full payment upfront• Offers dramatically lower pricing than competitorsTrust and transparency are essential in any home project.Check References and Past WorkReputable contractors are proud to share previous projects and client testimonials. Ask to see completed work, especially projects similar to yours. Speaking directly with former clients can offer insight into communication style, cleanliness and reliability.Communication MattersBeyond credentials, consider how the contractor communicates. Are calls returned promptly? Are questions answered clearly? Projects often involve adjustments along the way, and strong communication prevents small issues from becoming major problems.Protect Your InvestmentHome improvement projects represent significant investments in both property value and daily living. Taking time to vet contractors protects that investment and helps ensure the result meets expectations.


HOME + GARDEN | 67H OUSE H OLD H A Z A RDOUS WA STE DOCUMENT SHREDDINGELECTRONICS RECYCLING28560 Landfill Lane Georgetown, DE1-800-404-7080For a Complete ScheduleVisitwww.dswa.comHousehold Hazardous Waste CollectionEvery Monday 10am-2pmDocument Shredding1st Monday Of Each Month 10am-2pmElectronics RecyclingMonday-Saturday 8:30am-3:30pmLatex Paint CollectionLast Monday Of Each Month 10am-2pmDelaware Solid Waste AuthoritySouthern Recycling Center


68 | HOME +GARDENHOME + GARDENGreat Blue HeronHow to see one: Most likely near a pond, canal or wetland. Quiet mornings and shallow water increase your chances.Ruby-Throated HummingbirdHow to see one: Hang a nectar feeder in late spring and plant bee balm or trumpet vine. Hummingbirds are consistent once they find a reliable food source.Eastern BluebirdHow to see one: Install a bluebird nest box in an open yard or near a field edge. Offering mealworms helps. Bluebirds are picky, but loyal once they settle.Backyard Birding Lucky Sightings in Sussex CountyBaltimore OrioleHow to see one:Orioles may stop briefly in spring. Orange halves, grape jelly and native flowering trees can attract them during migration.Snowy EgretHow to see one: Occasionally spotted near backyard ponds or marshy areas, especially closer to the coast. Clean, open water is key.Bonus Tip: Put out a shallow birdbath - moving or freshly changed water can attract far more birds than feeders alone.


HOME + GARDEN | 69TOTAL HOME COMFORTSWEEPSTAKESWinner Announced & Featuredon September 16th in Fall Home + Garden.VALUED AT$8,990 POWERED BYA FREE HEATING & COOLING SYSTEM PLUS INSTALLATIONYOUR COMFORT UPGRADE AWAITS ➔Open to Sussex County residents. No purchase necessary.See full contest rules and restrictions atCAPEGAZETTE.COM/TOTALHOMECOMFORTSWEEPSTAKES


70 | HOME +GARDENHOME + GARDENWe Service All BrandsMHIC 128960 New & Existing HomesSAVE MONEY & HEADACHES,WATCH THIS AMAZING VIDEO! [email protected] Most Convenient, Powerful, & Healthy Vacuum! • Retractable• No hose to store• It’s easy & simple! LAST VAC YOU WILL EVER BUY!$250 Off Installation! Systems lastan averageof 20 yearswith alifetimewarranty!Local Garden GemsSussex County Master Gardeners maintain 32 specialty gardens behind the Carvel Research and Education Center near Georgetown.Sussex County Master Gardener Demonstration GardenLocated in Georgetown, this garden highlights practical, real-world landscaping ideas, including pollinator beds, raised gardens and native plant groupings designed for local conditions.Seasonal access | Georgetown


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72 | HOME +GARDENHOME + GARDENOutdoor Lighting That Changes EverythingOutdoor lighting is often one of the last details homeowners consider, yet it can completely transform how a property looks and functions. In Sussex County, where evenings stretch long in summer and outdoor living is part of daily life, lighting plays a practical and visual role. A well-lit exterior supports safety, highlights landscaping and makes patios, porches and walkways usable well after the sun goes down.The goal is not to flood the yard with brightness. It is to place light intentionally.Layer the LightEffective outdoor lighting works best in layers. Start with pathway lighting to improve safety and visibility along walkways, driveways and steps. Low, evenly spaced fixtures reduce tripping hazards without overwhelming the landscape.Next, consider ambient lighting for gathering spaces. Overhead fixtures on porches, string lights over patios or lantern-style sconces near seating areas create an inviting atmosphere. This layer makes outdoor areas feel like natural extensions of indoor living spaces.Finally, accent lighting can add depth. Uplighting at the base of mature trees, subtle lighting along garden beds or a focused beam highlighting architectural details gives dimension to a home’s exterior after dark.Choose the Right Color TemperatureWarm white light generally feels more welcoming than cool or bluish tones. In residential settings, softer light complements natural materials like wood, brick and stone. It also avoids the harsh glare that can make yards feel overly commercial.Balance Safety and SubtletyOutdoor lighting should enhance security without overwhelming neighbors or the surrounding environment. Motion-sensor lights are effective near garages and entry doors, but they should be angled downward and shielded to prevent unnecessary spill. In wooded or rural parts of Sussex County, limiting excessive brightness also helps preserve nighttime skies and local wildlife patterns.Solar or Wired?Solar lights offer flexibility and easy installation, especially along garden paths or in continued ▶▶▶


HOME + GARDEN | 73Whether you’re looking for main‑level living, a first‑floorowner’s suite, 3-car garage, or an included finished basement–we have a home that fits the way you want to live.We Offer New Homes for Every LifestyleVisit RyanHomes.com orScan the Code to ExploreOur CommunitiesHighlands of Peppers CreekDagsboro, DEAruba Bay$349,575Middle Creek PreserveLewes, DEAviano with Finished Basement$470,980Patriots GlenMillsboro, DESpruce$379,000Compass PointLewes, DEAnderson with Finished Basement$525,660Azalea WoodsGeorgetown, DEGrand Cayman$403,985Windmill CreekOcean City, MDSavannah with 3-Car Garage$769,990


74 | HOME +GARDENHOME + GARDENElevate your outdoor space302-856-6690 greentoplawns.comExperience the difference of expert design, meticulous maintenance, and a proven track record of beautiful yards.your trusted local landscapers for 20 years!withFull Lawn Care PackagesIrrigation SystemsSeasonal CleanupOutdoor LightingDrainageareas without convenient wiring. They work well for subtle illumination but may vary in brightness depending on sun exposure.Wired systems provide more consistent light and are better suited for larger properties or permanent installations. Many systems now include timers and smart controls, allowing homeowners to adjust lighting schedules seasonally.Highlight What MattersOutdoor lighting can draw attention to the strongest features of a property. A wellplaced fixture can emphasize a front door, showcase a flowering tree or outline a deck. Plan With the Seasons in MindIn spring and summer, lighting supports outdoor dinners and gatherings. In fall and winter, it provides visibility during earlier sunsets and adds warmth during darker months. Adjustable systems allow homeowners to adapt brightness and timing throughout the year.Small Fixtures, Lasting ImpactOutdoor lighting does not require a complete overhaul. A few carefully placed fixtures can reshape how a home feels after sunset. By focusing on placement, warmth and balance, homeowners can extend their living space, enhance curb appeal and create a welcoming presence from the street.In a region where evenings are often as valued as the days, thoughtful outdoor lighting makes the most of every season.


HOME + GARDEN | 75Lewes18259 Coastal HwyMORE ROOM FOR WHAT MATTERS™SCHEDULE YOUR COMPLIMENTARY DESIGN CONSULTATION 302.227.7636 CUSTOMXCLOSETS ENTRYWAY PANTRY HOMEXOFFICECA L I FO R N I AC LO S E T S.C O M©2026 California Closet Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Each California Closets® franchised location is independently owned and operated. Local contractor licenses available at californiaclosets.com.PA128_CapeGaz_MRfWM_Various_5.6x6.7_0126.indd 5 1/12/26 2:02 PMLewes18259 Coastal HwyMORE ROOM FOR WHAT MATTERS™SCHEDULE YOUR COMPLIMENTARY DESIGN CONSULTATION 302.227.7636 CUSTOMXCLOSETS ENTRYWAY PANTRY HOMEXOFFICECA L I FO R N I AC LO S E T S.C O M©2026 California Closet Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Each California Closets® franchised location is independently owned and operated. Local contractor licenses available at californiaclosets.com.PA128_CapeGaz_MRfWM_Various_5.6x6.7_0126.indd 5 1/12/26 2:02 PMLewes18259 Coastal HwyMORE ROOM FOR WHAT MATTERS™SCHEDULE YOUR COMPLIMENTARY DESIGN CONSULTATION 302.227.7636 CUSTOMXCLOSETS ENTRYWAY PANTRY HOMEXOFFICECA L I FO R N I AC LO S E T S.C O M©2026 California Closet Company, Inc. All rights reserved. Each California Closets® franchised location is independently owned and operated. Local contractor licenses available at californiaclosets.com.PA128_CapeGaz_MRfWM_Various_5.6x6.7_0126.indd 5 1/12/26 2:02 PM


76 | HOME +GARDENHOME + GARDENMaking the Most of a Screened PorchPractical Design Choices That Actually WorkA screened porch is one of the most useful spaces in a home when it is set up correctly. It offers fresh air without bugs, shade without full enclosure, and a place to relax that feels separate from the main living space. The difference between a porch that gets used and one that gets ignored usually comes down to a few practical decisions.Choose Furniture Built for Real ConditionsScreened porches are protected, but they still experience humidity, temperature swings and dust. Furniture should be made from materials that can handle moisture and wear, such as treated wood, aluminum or outdoor rated wicker. Cushions should use weather resistant fabric and removable covers so they can be cleaned easily. Comfort matters, but durability matters more.Define How the Space Will Be UsedBefore adding furniture or decor, decide how the porch will function most of the time. A dining setup requires different spacing than a seating area. If the porch will serve multiple purposes, arrange furniture to allow easy movement and flexibility. Avoid crowding the space, especially near doors and walkways.Control Light and AirflowCeiling fans are one of the most effective upgrades for screened porches. They improve comfort on warm days and keep air moving in humid weather. Consider adding shades or simple curtains to manage strong sun exposure and provide privacy when needed. These additions help regulate temperature and make the space usable throughout the day.Use Flooring and Rugs That Can Handle TrafficPorch floors see heavy use, especially in warm months. Durable flooring materials and outdoor rugs protect surfaces and make the space feel finished. Rugs should be easy to shake out or hose down. Avoid materials that trap moisture or take too long to dry.Plan Lighting for Evening UseGood lighting extends the porch beyond daylight hours. Overhead fixtures or wall mounted lights provide general illumination, while table lamps or lanterns add softer light for relaxing. Warm light works best. Avoid overly bright fixtures that attract insects or overwhelm the space.Keep Storage Simple and AccessibleScreened porches often double as transition spaces. Hooks, benches with storage or small continued ▶▶▶


HOME + GARDEN | 77H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H HH H H H H H H H H AMERICAN VETERANSTHRIFT STOREWE SUPPORT OUR HOMELESS VETERANS IN DELAWAREDONATIONS ALWAYS ACCEPTEDWe PICK UP Quality Used Furniture FREE!10% OFF TOTAL PURCHASEif you bring in this ad. Expires June 15, 2026Shop • DonateVolunteer • Support34396 Tenley Court, Lewes (just south of Wawa) 302-703-6406Route 24 - Across from Delaware Eye Institute302-200-7913NOW WITH TWO LOCATIONS!


78 | HOME +GARDENHOME + GARDENServing the Resort Area for Over 35 Years!Lawn/GardenOverseeders•Aerators•TillersPainting/GuttersBoom Lifts•Scissor Lifts•LaddersPicnics/GraduationsTents•Tables•Chairs•Grills•CoolersBigger JobsMini-Excavator Compact LoadersStump GrindersTrenchersBrush Chippers ScaffoldingTo-Do List?RENT IT!LP Filling Station Delivery Available19897 Hebron Rd Unit G, Rehoboth Beach, DE • 302-227-rent (7368) • 227rent.comcabinets help manage cushions, throws and outdoor accessories without cluttering the room. Keeping items contained makes the porch easier to maintain and more inviting.Think About Seasonal AdjustmentsA screened porch should adapt to changing weather. In warmer months, lightweight fabrics and open airflow keep it comfortable. In cooler seasons, heavier cushions, throws and portable heaters can extend its use. The structure stays the same. The details shift.Focus on Function FirstA screened porch works best when it supports everyday use. Practical furniture, controlled airflow, good lighting and easy maintenance matter more than decorative extras. When the basics are right, the space becomes a reliable extension of the home rather than an occasional retreat.


HOME + GARDEN | 79PEST SOLUTIONS PEST SOLUTIONSTICKS


80 | HOME +GARDENHOME + GARDENDELAWARE BOTANIC GARDENS Open through mid-November Thursdays–Sundays 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Visit delawaregardens.org and follow us on Social Media for up to date hours & events.30220 Piney Neck Rd., Dagsboro DE 19939Photo by Amanda GoebelLocal Garden GemsHoward Peller works on willow wattle fencing in the Fisher-Martin Herb Garden at Zwaanendael Park in Lewes.Zwaanendael Park & FisherMartin Herb GardenThis historic Lewes park blends landscaping with local history. A colonial-style herb garden and seasonal flower beds show how traditional plantings can still feel relevant in modern landscapes.Year-round | LewesBILL SHULL


HOME + GARDEN | 81Jennifer AllanCell: 302.659.9851Rehoboth BeachREHOBOTH BEACH18958 Coastal Hwy.Office: 302.703.6987OCEAN VIEW 53 Atlantic Av. Office: 302.537.1300 pattersonschwartz.comINCLUDING PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & VACATION RENTALSCeleste BeaupréCell: 703.772.6635Rehoboth BeachJohn BlackCell: 302.249.6922 Rehoboth BeachRick BogdanskiCell: 484.542.1795Ocean ViewKim BowdenCell: 302.462.5284Ocean ViewBeth BozmanCell: 302.841.9435Rehoboth BeachKara BrasureCell: 302.542.3947Rehoboth BeachMatt BrittinghamCell: 302.344.9026Rehoboth BeachGina CockerilleCell: 240.695.3252Rehoboth BeachMichele CockerilleCell: 240.412.5451Rehoboth BeachJamie ColemanCell: 302.344.7158Rehoboth BeachRon CookCell: 302.981.0639Rehoboth BeachJennifer CoonsCell: 848.986.4683Rehoboth BeachRich CooperCell: 302.265.7538Rehoboth BeachJulie Ellis HallCell: 302.542.1101Rehoboth BeachPatricia EricksonCell: 302.423.2881Rehoboth BeachBill GainesCell: 302.542.1964Ocean ViewMike HallCell: 443.373.4046Ocean ViewMatt HarkinsCell: 302.528.2705Rehoboth BeachJessica HarrisonCell: 302.858.2021Rehoboth BeachPatti Hastings Cell: 302.236.1281Rehoboth BeachPatty Lewis-JenkinsCell: 410.507.4177Rehoboth BeachJim LingoCell: 302.228.2041Rehoboth BeachJoe LingoCell: 302.542.1967Rehoboth Beach Asa McCuneDirect: 302.256.9311Rehoboth BeachBrittany McCunneyDirect: 302.239.3003Rehoboth BeachKarina PippinCell: 443-379-2722Rehoboth BeachJohn RishkoCell: 302.381.2504Rehoboth BeachCassie RogersonCell: 302.757.2310Rehoboth BeachMike SchwartzCell: 302.373.2880Rehoboth BeachLeah SharpeCell: 302.505.4408Rehoboth BeachMichael ShawCell: 302.384.0145Rehoboth BeachJenny Steen-BakerCell: 302.228.3796Rehoboth BeachMichael SteinbergCell: 703.618.5936Rehoboth BeachVictoria VetterCell: 302.359.2911Rehoboth BeachSamantha WatsonCell: 443.667.0368Rehoboth BeachDionne WattsCell: 410.262.4848Rehoboth BeachJohn Zacharias Cell: 302.381.6221Ocean ViewHarry ZhengCell: 347.223.7307Ocean ViewLocal Experts. Coastal Focus. Proven Results.Tammi CurranCell: 703.309.3119Rehoboth BeachPaul WebsterCell: 302.227.2345Rehoboth BeachTammy DostalCell: 302.519.3762Rehoboth BeachBrett ReillyCell: 301.509.4677Ocean ViewNOT PICTUREDWe are local. Two locations to serve you:Start your spring home search today.


82 | HOME +GARDENCreate the living space you always wanted.Over 30 Years’ ExperienceDEL-COAST Design & Build™ ™Call Todd or Pam Today!Call today for your free estimate(302) 947-4436 or visit delcoastdb.comScreen Porches 3 Season Rooms& Decks ALWAYS A 10% DISCOUNTFOR SENIOR CITIZENS!(Excluding specials)BASEMENTS GARAGESKITCHEN RENOVATIONS BATHROOM RENOVATIONSAdditionsInteriorExterior


HOME + GARDEN | 83Create the living space you always wanted.Over 30 Years’ ExperienceDEL-COAST Design & Build™ ™Call Todd or Pam Today!Call today for your free estimate(302) 947-4436 or visit delcoastdb.comScreen Porches 3 Season Rooms& Decks ALWAYS A 10% DISCOUNTFOR SENIOR CITIZENS!(Excluding specials)BASEMENTS GARAGESKITCHEN RENOVATIONS BATHROOM RENOVATIONSAdditionsInteriorExterior


84 | HOME +GARDEN


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