Efficient heat for Winters
Now is the time many are realizing their heating systems need an upgrade. Consider adding a heat pump or ductless heat pumps (also called mini-splits) to your home. Today's systems are far more advanced than those of the past—advancements in cold climate technology make them more efficient, reliable, and versatile. Heat pump water heaters are also more efficient and are increasingly being added to new construction. Upgrade to save energy!
The Ultimate Fall Checklist for a Flourishing Garden
Fall is one of the best times to improve your lawn, trees, shrubs, and garden. The basic maintenance you do during this "second spring" after summer will pay off in healthier growth and fewer problems next spring and summer. And because soils are still warm despite the falling temperatures, the weeks ahead are an ideal time to put many plants into the ground, no matter where you live. 1. Fertilize 2. Eliminate broadleaf weeds 3. Continue mowing 4. Seed or overseed 5. Dethatch & aerate 6. Water your lawn thoroughly 7. Plant trees, shrubs, and vines 8. Water 9. Pruning 10. Plant bulbs 11. Plant cool-season annuals 12. Protect roses 13. Mulch 14. Cut back and divide perennial
Home Renovations for Seniors to Age-in-Place
It is clear that the US population of people over 65 is increasing at historic rates. The vast majority of seniors live in their own homes and 92% prefer to continue living in their homes for as long as possible or age-in-place. Remodelers say that they have received more requests for this in the past 5 years. The most common accessibility features desired are main floor bathrooms and bedrooms. Other simple changes make staying at home easier such as putting a chair or bench in the bathroom, slip-resistant strips on the shower floor, lever-style of faucets and door handles, adjustable beds, motion-sensor or voice-activated lighting, short-pile carpet, easy to reach appliances, slide-out drawers in the kitchen and a lift chair for the living room. Other changes are much more expensive such as installing lifts on stairs, widening hallways, lowering kitchen counters, converting a tub to a shower and installing ramps on the exterior. But some of the changes will add value to your home when you resell and others will harm the value. Here is the list of which remodels that help and which will lower the resale value when you go to sell: These Modifications can improve home value: Full bathroom on main level Doorways at least three feet wide Hallways at least four feet wide Non-slip floor surfaces Entrance without steps Lever door handles (instead of knobs) Hands-free faucets Pull-out drawers (rather than standard cabinets) Automated light shades Smart lighting system with LED bulbs and rocker light switches, controllable from smartphones These modifications can decrease the value so think very carefully before you install: Elevator (56% of respondents to a survey by the NAHB did not want this feature) In-law suite (42% of NAHB respondents did not want this feature) Permanent exterior ramps Chair or wheelchair glides on stairs Large grab bars Push bars on doors (instead of handles) Walk-in bathtubs It is important that you consider the return on your investment, no matter which route you take. The cost to do the remodel may outweigh the benefit such as widening a hallway that involves a weight-bearing wall. Here is a booklet that helps seniors when they are considering a move. Click here. Give us a call/text to help you consider the alternatives for moving and remodeling. We are here to help. Thanks, Sue
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