Home & Garden News

Joy is in a single-bowl sink with a bi-level bottom

2013-03-28T20:34:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Kitchens today are the focal point of every home – and at resale, this is the room with the power to return every investment dollar.

So when the time comes to renovate or redesign the kitchen, interior designers tell us to start with our vision for the countertops and sink. With a little guidance, exciting spatial concepts can soon become reality. Today, for example, a show-stopping sink – one that is drop-dead gorgeous but also multi-functional – is the best investment feature you could make. Indeed, designers point out that at the 2013 Interior Design Show (held in Toronto earlier this year) it was the novel Precis Cascadesink that was commanding attention with its lavishly oversized single bowl ready for any bulky activity.

“What separates the Precis Cascade from all other sinks is its revolutionary bi-level bottom,” says Diana Elliott at Blanco Canada, a leading name in kitchen art technology. “The lower level is ideal for large pots and pans and the raised level can function much like a second bowl, perfect for cutlery or glassware or for washing fruit and vegetables.”

In addition, a ground-breaking material for sinks called 'silgranit' was also a star-attraction at the annual trade show – one that is readily demonstrated in the Precis Cascade.

“Silgranit is a patented material by Blanco that combines 80 per cent natural granite stone with a premium acrylic resin formula to deliver unprecedented strength and durability,” Elliott explained. “Silgranit sinks are non-porous for exceptional hygiene and easy care – and it is scratch-proof, chip proof, stain proof, and highly resistant to the heat of saucepans straight from the stove.

“As exciting,” she continued, “our company is known for the rich colours available in our sinks and the silgranit models lead the pack in a range of six, non-fading, densely-textured colour choices, plus a new one, we call Cinder. This one is a beautiful dark charcoal with a hint of brown. All of our colours are imbued with a subtle mineral pearlescence – and wait until you see how Cinder's natural stone texture complements so many other colours in your kitchen. It's complex but velvety warm; dramatic but also serene.”

As well as Cinder, the Precis Cascade is fashioned in Anthracite (black) and Café (coffee brown) and more information is available online at www.blancocanada.com.

Décor Quick Tip: Dazzling meets durable at the kitchen sink

2013-03-28T20:32:00.004-07:00

(NC)—Two sinks hit the spotlight this year at the 2013 Interior Design Show in Toronto: one was the Precis Cascade, a lavish single-bowl undermount and the other was the module-style, Blanco Modex, an equally elegant cubic-bowl topmount with a fully integrated worktop. The Modex has a large filigree cutting board in an ash wood composite that can be moved across the entire sink if needed, or positioned efficiently to suspend the stainless steel colander over the bowl at the same time. But the Precis Cascade also attracted serious attention for its revolutionary bi-level bottom. The lower level is ideal for large pots and pans and the raised level can function much like a second bowl, perfect for cutlery or glassware, or for washing fruit and vegetables. Both are made of 'silgranit', a patented material that combines 80 per cent natural granite stone with a premium acrylic resin formula. As a result, silgranit is scratch-proof, chip proof, stain proof, heat proof, and its non-porous properties allow for exceptional hygiene and easy cleaning. Take a look at the black, white, and earth colours for these models at www.blancocanada.com.

Get to know your water heater

2009-08-04T12:47:00.000-07:00

(NC)—They sit in basements and corners across Canada, silently churning out hot water for our daily needs. The only time many of us think about our water heater is when the taps suddenly run cold. Below are a few tips from Direct Energy on energy efficiency, lifespan and maintenance for your water heater.

Energy Efficiency. Homeowners can take the following measure to add to the efficiency of their hot water tank. Wrap the water pipes leading away from the tank; do not wrap the tank itself if it is gas-powered; turn down the temperature when on vacation or away for extended periods of time; keep temperature at manufacturer suggested level and keep the area around the tank clutter-free for optimum air flow.

Maintenance. Beyond ensuring you have the right tank for your consumption needs and water quality, water heaters don't typically require regular maintenance routines like a furnace or air conditioner unit would. Direct Energy suggests homeowners keep the area around the water heater free of clutter, and easily accessible, should it ever require a service visit.

Lifespan. The average lifespan of a hot water heater is sixteen years. Although the lifespan of a water heater depends on a number of factors including, how it is used (i.e. residential, commercial), water temperature, and water quality (i.e. water hardness) on the premises, the efficiency of the unit will remain fairly consistent for many years.

More information on water heaters is available online at www.directenergy.com/waterheater or toll-free at 1-888-334-8221.

Source: www.newscanada.com

New high-quality exterior paint creates the wow factor

2009-07-13T13:09:00.000-07:00

(NC)—When beautifying their homes most homeowners will concentrate their efforts on the interior before touching the outside, often neglecting that the exterior of a property – its curb appeal – is the first thing people notice. With Canada's harsh winters taking a toll on homes across the country, the first impression home exteriors are leaving these days is tough to bear.

“First impressions have a lasting effect, so the quality and colour of paint used on a home's exterior make a major difference – they're what give a home 'wow' attraction and make it inviting,” explained Stéphanie Pelland, marketing communication manager for the Sico retail brand and member of the Color Marketing Group, who has recently launched a high-quality, top-performing exterior paint designed to beautify the outside of the home and protect it from the elements.

Developed using a state-of-the-art multi-sphere advanced technology, the 100 per-cent acrylic latex exterior paint provides exceptional adherence and durability in both a flat or semi-gloss finish. Its high viscosity forms a protective coating that prevents water infiltration, resists mildew and UV rays, and fills in small surface defects so they virtually disappear.

“Offered in all of Sico's 1,696 colours, our new exceptionally-performing exterior paint maximizes the curb appeal of a home and, through our glamorous colour combinations, gives it enhanced charm and personality,” Pelland explained.

For example, Sico's suggested exterior paint colour choices from its new colour brochure include eye-catching, trendy combinations such as:

• Grey tones mixed with brown and almost-black, like Cotton Flower (6186-31) grey-beige as the main colour, accented with Maple Extract (6119-83) reddish-brown and Black Ice (6207-83) industrial grey.

• A fusion of warm khakis and dark grey, such as Designer Grey (6198-63) khaki as the main hue, with Neutral Grey (6198-42) green-grey and Indian Ink (6206-83) charcoal as accents.

• Sandy tones combined with light neutrals and teal blue or red, like Oyster Mushroom (6185-52) sand on the main surface, accented with Dried Mushrooms (6185-21) grey-beige and Montmartre (6155-83) teal or Candy Apple (6051-75) red.

• Pale yellow merged with winter white and slate grey, such as Almond Biscotti (6115-42) creamy yellow as the main colour, with White Beluga Whale (6209-11) blue-white and Kennetcook Slate (6157-63) grey-blue as accents.

Using a mix of different paint sheens also boosts the beauty and uniqueness of a property. For best results, Pelland suggests using a flat finish for vinyl or aluminum siding, concrete and stucco, and a semi-gloss finish for window frames, shutters and trim. “No matter what the style of a home, from country to contemporary, even minor enhancements to the exterior can make a major difference in upgrading both the look and perceived value of a property.” More information on exterior paint choices is available at www.sico.ca.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Make the most out of entertaining

2009-06-29T08:16:00.000-07:00

(NC)—It's time to reawaken the host within. Entertaining is a great way to spend time with family and friends, but it's often accompanied by undue stress. As any seasoned host knows, impressing guests is not just about food; presentation is equally important.

“Fussing over the appearance of dishes is time consuming and easily avoidable,” says Corrie Mueller, senior brand manager at Reckitt Benckiser (Canada) Inc., the makers of Finish dishwasher detergent. “We want people to know that their dishes can look their best with very little effort. For example, our new Quantum dishwasher detergent tab uses advanced, multi-chamber technology to ensure dishes are left amazingly clean and with a brilliant shine every time, which eliminates the frantic last minute polishing of glassware and cutlery before guests arrive.”

Whether entertaining the usual suspects or hosting a formal dinner, stop settling for sub-standard dishwashing results. With a few tips, getting great results from your dishwasher is easy. More dishwashing tips can be found online at www.finishdishwashing.ca.

Sidebar: It's in the water
• Ensure the dishwasher's water is at 60ºC to help dissolve food stains and disinfect dishes.
• If the water takes time to heat up, run the hot water in the sink for 30 to 45 seconds prior to running the dishwasher.

Loading it up
• Load larger and dirtier items on the bottom rack.
• Stack plates and glasses so they're not touching to help prevent chipping.

Use all the right tools
• Use an effective dishwasher detergent, such as Finish Quantum, that eliminates pre-rinsing – saving time by doing all the dirty work and leaves dishes with a brilliant shine.
• Use a drying agent, such as Finish Turbo Dry, to ensure dishes are dry when unloading.

Dishwasher maintenance
• To maintain dishwasher performance, use a cleaner once a month to remove grease, limescale and mineral deposits that can build up in hard-to-see places like the sprayer arm.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Cleaning with bleach 101

2009-06-08T09:06:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Household bleach is the go-to solution for many Canadians when they want to keep their whites bright and remove pesky stains. Though bleach is found in laundry rooms across the country, many Canadians are unsure of how to properly use it to clean other areas of their homes. Here are some ways you can put bleach to work in your house.

1. Remove tough mildew stains from bathroom tiles using a solution of one cup of bleach and 3.8 litres of water. Apply the solution directly on the tiles and let it stand for five minutes before rinsing. Repeat if necessary on heavily soiled surfaces.

2. Reduce the level of bacteria on children's toys with a hard surface disinfectant such as Ultra Javex Bleach by Clorox. To help keep your kid's environment clean, soak hard plastic toys in a mixture made from 3/4 cup of bleach and 3.8 litres of water. Let the toys soak for ten minutes before rinsing and air drying.

3. Keep cut flowers looking fresh longer by adding 1/4 teaspoon of bleach to one litre of water.

4. Clean and deodorize your pet's food and water bowls by filling them with a mixture containing one tablespoon of bleach and 3.8 litres of water. Let the solution stand for two minutes before draining, rinsing and air drying the bowls.

Remember to always read and follow precautions and usage directions before using cleaning products, including storing cleaning products out of reach of children.

More information is available online at www.Clorox.ca.

Source: www.newscanada.com

5 ways to maintain your vehicle

2009-06-01T09:18:00.000-07:00

(NC)— Whether having your vehicle serviced regularly or attempting to tackle the job on your own, keeping your vehicle in good working condition will maximize its performance and help you to save on costly repairs down the road.

The auto team at Canadian Tire has the following tips for Canadians looking to get the most out of their vehicle this year:
Check your brakes
The brake system in your vehicle is imperative for keeping you and your loved ones safe. Common signs of brake problems include a high-pitched screeching sound when applying the brakes, brakes that are not as responsive as they should be, a pedal that 'sinks' towards the floor, vibration on the brake pedal or a grinding metallicsound. If you experience any of these signs, drop by your local Canadian Tire so an experienced mechanic can take a look.
Top up 'vital fluids'
Keeping your vehicle running well requires constant monitoring of vital fluids. Fluids that should be monitored and topped up on a regular basis include:

• Engine oil

• Transmission fluid

• Engine coolant

• Power steering fluid

• Brake fluid

• Windshield washer fluid
Replace shocks and struts
Ensuring your vehicle has adequate shocks and struts will increase your vehicle's safety and performance. Worn shocks and struts can cause uneven tire wear, damage suspension components, and cause unusual drift and sway to your vehicle.
Change your tires
With the harsh winters we've been experiencing, more Canadians have been relying on winter tires for increased safety in cold, wet weather. It is important that winter tires be replaced with all-season tires in the spring, as the rubber compound is different and performs differently in warmer temperatures. Driving on winter tires throughout the summer is hard on them and will decrease their lifespan.
Oil/ Air Filter Change
Your car's filters have a significant impact on engine life and performance – they also have an effect on fuel consumption and emissions.

While the oil filter's job is to remove oil contaminants, the air filter captures airborne contaminants, like bugs and dirt, preventing them from entering your engine. Left unchanged, dirty air and oil filters can lead to poor acceleration, lower gas mileage, poor engine performance and serious repairs.

Ensure your vehicle runs well this year and for years to come by visiting you local Canadian Tire auto service department for more tips and maintenance products.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Lawn care the natural way

2009-05-25T08:36:00.000-07:00

(NC)—More Canadians are looking for natural and healthy alternatives to cosmetic pesticides for keeping weeds away. The lawn and garden team at Canadian Tire has the following helpful tips and steps to help get Canadians on the right track to a healthy lawn and garden.

Weekly
• Set mowing height to 7.5 cm (3 in.) for stronger roots
• Use a manual or cordless lawnmower and trimmer to reduce harmful greenhouse-gas emissions
• Water thoroughly once a week to grow deeper roots
• Check for signs of weed and insect infestations
• Mulch grass clippings to shade soil, reduce evaporation and naturally fertilize your lawn
• Water lawn and garden during morning (7 a.m. – 10 a.m.) to avoid midday heat and evaporation. Look for an oscillating sprinkler to ensure good coverage as well as a unit with a timer to prevent over-watering and to promote water conservation. Available at Canadian Tire is the yardworks oscillating sprinkler with timer that is easy to use and delivers ample coverage

Every 2 months
• Feed 3-4 times per year with a slow release fertilizer
• Use a composter to reduce your household waste and create a natural humus that your garden and plants will love
Once a year
• Over-seed every spring or fall to thicken turf naturally
• Aerate your lawn to improve air, water and nutrient uptake
• Top dress stressed areas of lawn with organic lawn soil
• Check soil pH, add lime to correct acidic soil conditions

As required
• Repair lawn damage and bare spots promptly with quality grass seed and lawn soil
• Use weeding tools to remove isolated weeds. An excellent product available at Canadian Tire, is the fiskars telescopic weeder. It is extendable for easy height adjustments and is great for dandelions, thistles and other invasive lawn weeds
• Top-quality outdoor tools are a good investment as they incorporate high-grade materials, ergonomic design and durable steel heads and blades
• Save your back by investing in a good quality wheel barrow to haul your supplies, soil, mulch and plants around the yard

Source: www.newscanada.com

Spring is in the air, but is it in your home?

2009-05-19T10:05:00.000-07:00

(NC)—A mild breeze, the sound of birds chirping, the first buds poking through on branches, spring is a time of lightness, awakening…and dirt?? The new season, characteristically thought of as coming out of hibernation in colder climates, is a time to look forward to, as well as time that requires some work to fully enjoy it. “There's no need to fear the spring clean,” says Mike Chalut, lifestyle expert on W Network's Kim's Rude Awakenings. “Identify the areas that need work, ready your supplies and rally the family together to get the job done!”

Welcome in the spring by swapping out winter clothes for lighter, brighter, warm weather clothes. After months of storage, items may be in need of freshening. Why not use a laundry detergent that cleans and is more sensible for the environment? For example, Arm & Hammer Essentials laundry detergent with biodegradable plant based soaps gives your clothes a true spring cleaning.

In the workhorse room of the house, kitchen countertops, sinks and appliances see regular cleanings, but in the spirit of spring cleaning, it's time to roll up the sleeves and tackle one area that likely needs some attention: the fridge. “Toss old food into the compost bin and clean all the surfaces of the fridge - walls, shelves and drawers - with a safe, effective cleanser you probably already own: baking soda,” suggests Chalut. Sprinkle it right onto the surface, scrub and rinse well to rid your fridge of stains or greasy residue. Best of all, it deodorizes as it cleans so do the same in your waste receptacles including compost and recycling bins and say goodbye to the smells with the spills.

Spring celebrates the return of fresh, local produce including the option to pick-your-own on many farms. After cleaning the fridge, take a few extra minutes to carefully clean any dirt or residue from fruit and vegetables before placing them into the crisper drawers. Baking soda, sprinkled onto a damp, soft sponge is an effective and natural way to clean so you can enjoy the tastes of the season.

An oft-forgotten part of the home that takes a lot of abuse year-round are carpets. Up the ante of your regular vacuuming routine with a simple, pre-vacuuming sprinkle of Arm & Hammer powder. “What these products lend to your carpets and area rugs is superior deodorization,” says Chalut. “Pets, spilled food, bare feet, and micro-particles you can't even see contribute to a less-than-clean carpet. Start with a good vacuum with a HEPA filter and pair it with a powerful carpet and room odour eliminator, which penetrates deep and vacuums out, powering out the toughest odours and leaving behind a fresh scent.”

“Spring cleaning can be less of a chore with a safe, effective cleanser such as baking soda, and of course a bit of elbow grease,” laughs Chalut. “You can then sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labour, inside or out, and enjoy the sights and smells of spring.”

More spring cleaning and deodorizing tips can be found online at www.armhammer.ca.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Spring scrubbing from head to toe

2009-05-11T11:11:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Spring cleaning always conjures up images of household chores – dusting, vacuuming and polishing. Once your home is sparkling though, you may not be. Mike Chalut, lifestyle expert on W Network's Kim's Rude Awakenings suggests investing in some personal polish time: “After you've gone to the effort to make your home spotless, take time for some well-deserved pampering.”

Much like cleaning from the attic to the basement, Mike offers tips on freshening up from the top down:

• For locks that rock, remember to shake it. Sprinkle a small amount (quarter-size) of baking soda into your palm along with your favourite shampoo. Shampoo as usual and rinse thoroughly. Baking soda helps remove the residue that styling products leave behind so your hair is cleaner and more manageable.

• Add some Epsom salts to your bath water for a relaxing soak.

• Make cleaning your teeth easy by regularly brushing with an all-in-one formula that offers the whitening power of baking soda and provides long lasting fresh breath while fighting cavities, tartar and plaque.

• Why take chances? Nothing makes you feel more comfortable than knowing that your antiperspirant deodorant is working. The Arm & Hammer Advance line offers several scented and non-scented antiperspirants to help keep you looking and feeling clean and fresh.

• After all that cleaning, pamper your over-worked feet with a foot soak by adding three tablespoons of baking soda to a basin of warm water.

Just as you use safe and effective products around the house, be sure to do the same with your body and embrace the new season now that the spring cleaning overhaul is done.

More helpful cleaning and deodorizing tips can be found online at www.armhammer.ca.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Keep critters out of cottages

2009-05-04T10:26:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Your vacation retreat can quickly turn into a headache when pests invade. According to pest management experts, the top three pests cottagers are likely to encounter are black flies, mosquitoes and rodents.

These pests are not only a nuisance, but also can pose a health threat and can cause property damage.

Emerging in May and lasting through early July, black flies can cause red, itchy, swollen bumps after biting. Mosquito bites cause the same symptoms, but are more dangerous because of mosquitoes' ability to transmit West Nile virus.

“Black flies and mosquitoes have long been the nemesis of cottagers,” says Bill Melville, quality assurance director for Orkin PCO Services (orkincanada.com). “Canada's cottage country is popular because of its lakes and streams, but it is also prime breeding ground for black flies and mosquitoes.”

Melville advises that cottagers head indoors – or at least to a screened-in porch – during the early morning and evening hours when black flies and mosquitoes prefer to feed.

“Install number 60 mesh screens on your windows and around porches to keep black flies and mosquitoes out,” says Melville. “If you must be outside during dawn and dusk, wear long sleeves and pants, as well as insect repellant.”

While flies and mosquitoes bite, rodents try to get inside cottages for an easy meal.

“Rodents are notorious for sneaking into vacant cottages as the weather cools,” says Melville. “Once inside they can breed rapidly with one pair of mice producing as many as 200 offspring in only four months.”

Rodents can contaminate food and surfaces in cottages with their urine and feces. They have also been known to cause fires by chewing on electrical wiring.

To prevent rodents from entering, seal any gaps or holes in your cottage's structure. Mice can squeeze through holes the size of a dime, while rats can enter through openings the size of a loonie.

If you notice droppings or signs of gnawing around the cottage, contact a licensed pest control company to help identify the culprit and quickly eliminate any infestations.

Source: www.newscanada.com

How to decorate small spaces

2009-04-27T16:13:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Bigger isn't always better. These days, homeowners no longer covet more space than they need. While many people are choosing to live in smaller spaces, they still wish to have a graceful and decorative home. Decorating experts at Hunter Douglas, Canada's leading manufacturer of custom window fashions, offer the following tips for scaling style and elegance to fit more intimate spaces:

• Clear out Clutter: A rigorous editing of possessions collected over time will result in a more spacious home. For a classic and airy setting, Silhouette window shadings from Hunter Douglas offer the light-control and privacy aspect of a blind combined with the softened light and view-through of a sheer and protection from UV rays.

• Consider Colour: Pale tones expand a room while dark tones shrink a space. Choose lighter, harmonious colours that can be used to connect the rooms.

• Add Texture: Texture can be used in place of a pattern to add interest. Select a textured window fashion, such as hand-woven Hunter Douglas Provenance woven wood shades that bring natural texture to your windows from carefully selected grasses, woods, reeds and bamboo.

• Make Rooms Multi-task: In between meals, the dining table can be used for arts and crafts projects, homework, meal preparation overflow, a library or home office. Use built-ins and flexible furniture to create a room that is as appealing as it is efficient.

• Divide and Conquer: Create a home office or separate bedroom without costly construction. Skyline Gliding Window Panels feature a versatile track system that allows it to be used as a room divider as well as a window treatment.

Using these tips, you can learn how to live large with less.

More information is available online at www.hunterdouglas.ca or toll-free at 1-800-265-8000.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Get smashing lighting upgrades on a shoestring budget

2009-04-20T08:36:00.000-07:00

(NC)—The economy may be in the doldrums, but that doesn't mean your decor has to be there too. It's possible to turn dark, dreary and dated decor into light, lively and “now” on just a shoestring budget.

What's the secret to sprucing up on a shoestring? Lighten up – literally.

Upgrading your home's lighting can impart a whole new atmosphere, and you don't need to spend big bucks on pricey new fixtures to do it. Simple, budget-friendly changes can make a big difference in how your home looks and feels, and how much you enjoy living there.

The experts at the American Lighting Association (ALA) offer a few tips for creating a big impact on a small budget.

First, consider the first impression guests (or potential buyers) have of your home. “Upgrading exterior lighting or entryway lighting can improve the curb appeal and first impression of your home,” says Monty Gilbertson, manager of Lighting Designs by Wettsteins in LaCross, Wisconsin.

Michael Berman, a lighting consultant with Chatsworth, California-based Lamps Plus, agrees. “Replacing old, worn-out fixtures, purchasing inexpensive landscape lights to highlight interesting architectural elements or plantscapes can make it 'love at first sight' for potential buyers,” he says.

Once you've upgraded the outside, take a look at the first parts of the houseguests see – often the entryway or dining room on modern floor plans.

“Changing the dining room chandelier and/or the foyer light will make major strides in improving the look and, in some cases, the efficiency of your home,” Gilbertson says. “Fixtures in the entryway should set the style for the rest of the house,” Berman adds. “Even a small flush-mount fixture can add style to an otherwise lackluster entry.”

Next, install dimmers throughout the house, even in rooms where you might not normally think of using them, like the kitchen and bath, suggests Joe Rey-Barreau, an education consultant for the ALA and an associate professor at the University of Kentucky's School of Interior Design.

An upgrade that's well within the skills of most do-it-yourselfers, installing a dimmer can completely change the character and quality of a space. For example, dimmers in a bathroom enable you to use the facilities in the middle of the night without the jarring impact of turning on bright, overhead lighting. In a master bedroom, they can create a soothing or even romantic mood.

In other rooms, take a look at your table lamps, advise both Rey-Barreau and Jeff Dross, senior product manager for Kichler Lighting in Cleveland. “One way to make an impact on a small budget is by changing outdated lampshades with newer trend-forward versions that incorporate fashion-friendly colours, fabrics or patterns,” Dross says. “Many companies sell stand-alone shades at budget-friendly prices.”

Consider how you use table lamps as well, Rey-Barreau says. “How many do you use in a room? What types? Table lamps can create a more diverse quality of light, and adding a few accent lamps in a room can really change the quality of a space,” he adds.

Simple upgrades in kitchens and baths can also deliver big impact and enhance your home's value on a shoestring budget, the experts agree.

Modern kitchens often hide lighting under cabinets or in the ceiling through recessed lighting. “Adding fixtures that can be shown off and enjoyed can make a big impact,” Dross says. “Adding mini pendants is a good place to start. They add aesthetic appeal and build an interesting focal point at a fair price.” Or, upgrade from a single bulb fixture in the kitchen to a multi-bulb unit with a dimmer, Gilbertson suggests.

In baths and kitchens, consider replacing fixtures with dated finishes with more contemporary choices. Many manufacturers now make light fixtures in finishes that complement some of the more popular choices for plumbing fixtures, Rey-Barreau points out.

Finally, when you're lighting a room, keep in mind that you need to use more than one light and more than one kind of light. A balance of overhead lights (on dimmers), floor lamps and/or table lamps will produce the most aesthetically pleasing, livable atmosphere.

More information on this topic is available online at www.AmericanLightingAssoc.com, or call toll-free 1 800 BRIGHT IDEAS.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Improve your outdoor décor

2009-04-12T12:22:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Chances are your deck or patio décor includes a variety of surfaces such as wood, wicker, metal and plastic, all which may have become weathered from summer sun and winter storage. Armed with your creativity and a few cans of spray paint, you can give all these surfaces a fresh, stylish, up-to-date appearance. Spray painting furniture and accessories is probably the fastest and most affordable way to give your backyard oasis a great new look.

Krylon Fusion for Plastic is an easy-to-use, one step, super-bonding spray paint. It can be used on wood, metal, wicker, hard vinyl and a wide range of plastic surfaces including ABS, PVC, polypropylene, polyethylene, fiberglass and rubber.

It is available in a wide range of colors and now comes with the new EZ Touch 360° Dial Spray Tip, which enables more comfortable spray painting with increased coverage per pass, reduced overspray, less chance of runs or drips and greater accuracy. Using a dial that rotates a full 360°, spray painters can adjust the direction of the fan-spray pattern with the touch of a finger.

The colour experts at Krylon (www.krylon.com), North America's leading supplier of spray paint, have some tips for making outdoor makeovers easier than ever:

• Use colour to unify your space. By carefully selecting a palette of a few colours, you can unify even disparate furniture pieces into a pleasing whole. White is an ever-popular classic that can be paired with almost any accent colour to achieve striking good looks.

• Especially in areas filled with bright sunlight, don't be afraid of bold or saturated colours. Use bright, bold colours to infuse a space with energy and whimsy, or consider textured or metallic hues for more subtle sophistication.

• For the brightest, boldest colours, prime the surface or apply a white basecoat. Next, apply the colour coat over the white surface.

• Group furniture together to create intimate conversation areas. Use interesting containers to hold plants. Consider lighting for both evening safety and ambiance.

• Always follow the directions on your can of spray paint. Application instructions and dry times, as well as how long you should shake the can and how far away you should hold it from the surface, vary from paint to paint.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Build with concrete, not wood

2009-04-06T09:27:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Walls made of concrete in residential and commercial buildings will deliver long-lasting benefits for the homeowner or resident, all of which are far superior to traditional building methods. Take a look at this in-field comparison on homes of a similar size, courtesy of Canadian company Nudura and its internationally certified 'green' wall system:

Energy Efficiency: Wood structures are prone to thermal bridging where the outside cold penetrates too easily, causing drafts and cold spots. Solid core, concrete walls keep home temperatures consistent requiring less energy for heat, cool, and climate control. Energy savings with concrete walls are reported to be from up to 50 to 70 percent.

The Environment: Trees are vital for the control of greenhouse gases, and are equally important for the total oxygen supply. The more trees covering the planet the better, so instead of using wood for construction, concrete will save this important natural resource.

Strength: Concrete walls are shown to be up to nine times stronger, withstanding wind up to 250 m.p.h. and a debris impact up to 115 m.p.h. Wood walls are subject to moisture, dry rot, and deterioration. With a solid, concrete core, your walls last for a lifetime.

Safety: In addition to long-term durability, and wind resistance, concrete walls report 4-hour fire protection. A traditional stick-frame home is rated to withstand fire for only 45-minutes.

Living Quality: Wood walls are also prone to moisture retention, promoting mould growth with airborne respiratory irritants. The concrete, Nudura wall system (nudura.com) is quick to assemble for builders, brings beauty to the design, emits no fumes, retains no water, and unlike wood, this solid concrete core is soundproof, keeping unwanted noise outside.

Source: www.newscanada.com

How to get a good night's sleep

2009-03-30T08:37:00.000-07:00

(NC)—There's nothing like a sound night of sleep to help start the day on a positive note. Karl Lohnes, interior designer, TV host and style editor of Style At Home magazine, categorizes people into one of two categories when it comes to sleep habits. A “cave person” consists of those who need window fashions that make the room pitch black in the morning, whereas a “cloud person” needs light to come through in the early hours in order to wake up.

Lohnes offers the following tips on how to decorate your bedroom in order to get a good night's sleep based on your light preferences:

• The most important thing to consider is that you need something on those windows. The best window fashions for a “cave person” are products such as Duette Architella honeycomb shades in the opaque fabric option from Hunter Douglas, the leader in custom window fashions, that feature a patented honeycomb-within-a-honeycomb design that significantly reduces heat transfer at the window and serves as an excellent light-blocking tool. What's more, these shades absorb up to 50 percent of reflected sound.

• A “cloud person,” needs something that will allow a streaming light to come into the room without unwanted glare. Silhouette window shadings from Hunter Douglas feature soft fabric vanes suspended between two sheer fabric facings. This window fashion allows you to have your view, natural light and even with the vanes open, filter out up to 88 percent of harmful UV rays to protect your valuable furnishings.

• When decorating other elements of the room, a “cave person,” should use rich paint colours, deeper-toned bedding and dark-stained furniture. Further, a “cave person” should go darker on the walls and add accessories with darker accents.

• A “cloud person” should use light, reflective colours, wood tones and artwork to decorate the bedroom, while accenting the space with bright and airy accessories.

More information is available online at www.hunterdouglas.ca or toll-free at 1-800-265-8000.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Rediscover the joys of home with your “staycation”

2009-03-23T09:42:00.000-07:00

(NC)—With the warm weather months just around the corner, it's time to start thinking of all things fresh and in bloom. While the economy may make you hold off on vacations, there's no reason you can't indulge in a “staycation,” or a vacation spent at home, and see your surroundings in a new light.

Sue Rainville, director of marketing for Hunter Douglas, Canada's leading manufacturer of custom window fashions, offers the following tips on how to plan the ultimate staycation:

• Make Plans: Treat your vacation at home similarly to a regular vacation by making plans. Enjoy your surroundings by taking long walks and engaging in other activities that allow you to enjoy all of the beautiful things you have close to home, whether it's a local park, mountain trail or city block.

• Transform Your Home into an Oasis: Get lasting pleasure from the money you were saving for travel by indulging in some decorating projects to refresh your surroundings.

• Create an At-Home Spa: Turn your master bath into a spa with the addition of piles of white towels, scented candles, a fresh coat of paint or a photo-mural of a tranquil scene. To have privacy plus a real sky view in your bath select a window fashion with a top-down/bottom-up design option such as Duette Architella honeycomb shades. This product features a patented honeycomb-within-a-honeycomb design that provides superior energy efficiency to keep the room warm and inviting and add to the spa-like mood you've created.

• Get Some Sleep – Turn off your alarm clock and indulge in sleeping late. As psychologists advise that we sleep better in a dark room, add some room-darkening window treatments. New Pirouette window shadings are available in two opacities – semi-opaque and room-darkening – in a delightful array of textured fabrics and colours.

• Make the Most of What's Nearby – Visit local museums and landmarks, and plan outings on your own or with friends to nearby movies, theater or concerts. Consult guidebooks and make an itinerary, just as you would if vacationing in a foreign town.

More information is available online at www.hunterdouglas.ca or toll-free at 1-800-265-8000.

Source: www.newscanada.com
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Embrace the power of light

2009-03-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Natural light can make one of the biggest impacts in a room and is available at a fraction of the cost of other powerful room accents – in fact, it's free. While the addition of natural light is a positive element, there is often the challenge of not only bringing daylight into the home, but controlling it so that it is put to best use and does not result in glare, heat gain, UV damage to furnishings and lost energy savings opportunities.

Sue Rainville, director of marketing for Hunter Douglas, Canada's leading manufacturer of custom window fashions, offers the following tips on how to best harvest natural light in your home:

The Right Amount
Proper harvesting of light involves enhancing and controlling the light a room receives at different times of day. Select window fashions like Silhouette window shadings with sheer fabric and layers that diffuse sunlight as it enters a room to create a softened lighting effect across the space. Silhouette shadings also have fabric vanes that allow you to direct the light to the walls and ceilings to help it penetrate deeper into the room.

The Power of Combination
Integrate natural light with other systems in your home – including media, security and electric lighting systems – for maximized energy-savings potential.

Rising Above
Daylight should enter the space from as high a point as possible. Products with the top-down/bottom-up design from Hunter Douglas have the option of opening from the top and stacking at the bottom, thus allowing light to stream into a room from the top of the window, effectively lighting the room without electricity. This option is available on Duette honeycomb shades, Silhouette window shadings, Vignette Modern Roman Shades and other Hunter Douglas offerings.

Dim Light
Use dimmers on electric lights to maximize natural light illumination and reduce the use of artificial light. Additionally use insulating window fashions that can cut cooling costs by shading rooms from the hot noonday sun.

More information is available online at www.hunterdouglas.ca or toll-free at 1-800-265-8000.

Source: www.newscanada.com
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Colour me spring

2009-03-09T16:23:00.000-07:00

(NC)—There's no doubt that adding a new colour to an out-of-date room is an easy and inexpensive way to revive your home. So what's big for spring? Frank Turco, the colour, trend and design manager at The Home Depot Canada, has identified three key trend themes for spring 2009. Go ahead: get inspired! Select the theme you like best, work with colours in that theme, and let your creative side take over. It's really that easy!

Architecture
Ornate crown molding, etched apothecary pendant lights, salvaged artifacts and textured fabrics…all of these elements from past eras have a place in the modern home. Give historic architectural details a second life as focal points in today's stylish interiors. Set out to salvage something beautiful and juxtapose it against a bold, rich tone. Think dramatic accents of colour on classic design pieces, like ceiling medallions, for example. Colours that fit into this theme include: rich reds, various shades of grey and deep marine blues.

Grey Matters
Tone and texture come to life in various shades of grey – from colour palettes to finishes, this hue is the new black for au courant interiors and exteriors. Natural elements like marble, pewter, graphite, and weathered wood are all going grey for this look. Stainless steel dominates the kitchen beyond appliances to counter tops, cabinets, seating, hardware and lighting. Grey is centre stage in paint palettes, floor coverings, metallic wallpapers and prints.

Cabana
Bring hot, dramatic hues to your home in time for summer. Tiles and cabinets in playful shades of blue, green, yellow and red are a surprising addition to kitchens and baths. Pop art inspired paint palettes and wallpaper design come alive, while bold colours like red, green, and orange bring rooms to life. And don't limit yourself – take this look outside. Lounges with shades, privacy screens and gazebos fit nicely in this theme. Summertime never looked better!

Source: www.newscanada.com
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Curb appeal makes a good first impression

2009-03-02T12:49:00.001-08:00

(NC)—The front of a house is the first thing people notice. As the gateway to the rest of your home, it's important to take the time to make sure it is in tip-top shape. Consider the following tips from The Home Depot to make sure that the first impression is a lasting one.

• Get rid of the clutter – it can be as easy as putting away unnecessary tools, taking in your mail or getting rid of old lawn signs. Consider purchasing an outdoor shed for added storage – The Home Depot carries multiple styles to suit any home.

• Make it sparkle on the outside too – Don't forget to clean the windows and gutters. Use a pressure washer to get rid of dirty siding or dingy decks.

• GreenScape – a green healthy lawn always makes a great first impression, so make sure to maintain your landscape. Mow the lawn weekly. Trim the trees bi-weekly. Make a habit of regularly removing weeds between your concrete bricks and sidewalk stones.

• Paint it up – a fresh coat of paint can give a home's exterior an instant update. Painting the garage, front door and window sills can make an aged home look brand new again. Try Behr's Premium Plus Ultra Exterior Satin Enamel Paint. It provides a protective shell against damage from sunlight moisture, stains and dirt.

• Decorate your entrance – depending on your budget there are numerous ways to upgrade your front entrance. Installing a new door like the Providence Centre Arch Steel Entry Door found at The Home Depot provides a new look to the exterior of your home – it's slim detailed centre window will make any home stand out. If a new door isn't in your budget, consider replacing fixtures – introduce a new door knob, mail box and coordinating house numbers.

Source: www.newscanada.com
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Small kitchen projects add great value

2009-02-23T09:48:00.000-08:00

(NC)—Canadians today want to modernize their homes, but don't want to break the bank to do it. There's no doubt that having a beautiful kitchen increases your home's overall value, but many still think that updating this room effectively means undertaking a large-scale renovation. This is simply not true!

A recent poll conducted by The Home Depot Canada reveals that 39 per cent of Canadians believe they need to spend $10,000 or more to increase the value of their home. The truth is that anyone can update the kitchen without spending a small fortune – you just need to know a few tricks. Small projects, at little cost, can add great value. Here are a few updates to consider, courtesy of Frank Turco, colour, trend and design manager at The Home Depot Canada.

Get a handle on your cabinets
An easy way to add sparkle to your kitchen is to change your drawer handles and cabinet knobs. High-gloss chromes or cut-glass styles will make your kitchen shine. Whether your cabinets are white, light wood, dark wood or painted colourfully, glass and metal will always provide a modern feel because of the contrast they provide. And the best news about this kitchen update is that the amount of money you want to spend is entirely up to you. The Home Depot carries high gloss chrome kitchen cabinet handles starting as low as $1.98 each.

Water works
Add some modern chrome to your kitchen by updating your existing faucet and sink. A shiny, double sink coupled with a single-lever faucet will make doing dishes a breeze, while also making your kitchen look clean and crisp. Also consider a pull-out spray nozzle for rinsing produce. This is especially helpful when washing roasting pans and extra-large casserole dishes. Start to finish, you can take this small project on yourself for under $600.

Give your windows the treatment they deserve
Many people consider window treatments in the kitchen more of an afterthought than a design consideration. But attractive bamboo, California shutters or café curtains are a terrific investment as people notice the difference they make the moment they walk into the kitchen. If you have boldly coloured walls and/or tiles, play up the windows using a complementary colour. If your kitchen is a neutral shade, the colour spectrum is yours to discover – but try to stick to the bolder shades as pastels and off whites will blend into the background. Select a dominant colour to pull the eye to the window, or make your neutral shades pop with traditional coverings in a crisp white, chocolate brown, or onyx black.

Source: www.newscanada.com
Visit us online at: www.thenewsleader.ca

Creating a custom-looking kitchen is as simple as making a pie

2009-02-16T09:22:00.000-08:00

(NC)—Every household is different, with varying lifestyles and needs for space. But almost always, the kitchen is the most action-packed room in the house – especially given the ongoing popularity of the open-concept design. A room that naturally encourages people to gather around, the kitchen is the stage for everything from homework sessions to weekend entertaining. Whatever the activity, creating a kitchen with a custom-made feel is easier than you may think thanks to the wide variety of premium appliance offerings available today.

Avid entertainers know the challenge of enjoying the party while keeping the food coming. Rather than stashing a couple of extra toaster ovens in the pantry, take care of cocktail hors d'oeuvres preparation with a double oven. Simply microwaving a side dish while the roast takes over the oven is a compromise of the past. Two separate oven cavities, one above the other, cook at different temperatures and take up no more space than your standard oven. If you find yourself preparing multiple dishes and struggling to serve them all while they're still hot, a double oven is an option worth considering – and particularly handy if you can't get the kids (or spouse!) to agree on the same meal. The GE Monogram 30” built-in double wall oven, for example, gives the immediate impression of a custom-designed space fit for an upscale home.

Are little hands wreaking havoc on stainless steel surfaces moments after you've polished them to a shine? Fully-integrated appliances with custom panels can be matched with your kitchen cabinetry, eliminating the need for constant wiping of fingerprints and giving the space a seamlessly unified and flowing look. In particular, a paneled fridge that perfectly matches the rest of the kitchen paneling and décor, gives an instant customized, high-end look.

Households with young families are undoubtedly among the busiest. Built-in side by side refrigerators provide more than enough storage space for a week's worth of school snacks, dinner leftovers and all the healthy foods you'd like to have on-hand to keep the bunch happy and full of energy. Adding custom door panels makes for a clean and seamless addition to the already bustling heart of your home.

If a wannabe iron chef lives in your kitchen, odds are the old stove you've got now is being blamed for every dish gone wrong. Just like a carefully-crafted recipe, a chef's dream kitchen is all about the details. With two separate flames under each burner, professional-looking range tops built into the counter provide the ultimate in detailed temperature control. Whether simmering a delicate sauce or using the grill to sear salmon, the cook in your kitchen will delight in the range top that seems custom made to perfect their favourite recipes.

You can learn about appliances built for the custom-look online at www.Monogram.com.

Source: www.newscanada.com
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Revitalize your home this spring

2009-02-09T13:13:00.000-08:00

(NC)—Your home has been in hibernation over the winter, but with spring around the corner it may be time to revitalize your home – starting with the attic. A great method to begin spring cleaning is to work from the top down, purging unnecessary items you may have stored away. Although there may be items such as family heirlooms or priceless antiques that you just can't discard, old clothes and nick knacks can definitely be donated to a local second-hand store. With the new room in your attic you may be amazed at what you can do with the space.

“No matter what you decide to do with your attic, remember the fundamentals to building any new room – install adequate insulation,” says David Flood, Insulation Expert, Owens Corning. “Before you transform your attic into a room you can enjoy, install at least 15 inches of PINK FIBERGLAS Batt Insulation to help regulate indoor temperatures and keep your family comfortable and warm. In addition, it can help save you as much as 28 per cent on your heating and cooling energy bills.*”

Insulating your attic can be easy – all it takes are a few simple steps to complete an attic insulation upgrade:

1. First, figure out how much insulation you already have in place by using a ruler to measure the thickness of your existing attic insulation.

2. Now, calculate how many packages of insulation you'll need to top-up on your attic insulation. Determine the area to be insulated in square feet by multiplying the length times the width of your attic in feet.

3. Measure the distance between joists (the long wooden dividers on the attic floor) to determine the required insulation width for the job.

4. Then, divide the total square footage by the square foot per package, rounding up to the next whole number to determine the total number of packages you'll need.

5. Visit your local building materials store and ask for PINK FIBERGLAS Insulation – it's easy to install and can be used in different areas such as attic floors, walls and ceilings.

6. After bringing your insulation home, open the bundles only one at a time. Start insulating at the outer edges of the attic and work your way into the centre, placing batts perpendicular to the joists.

7. Don't forget about the importance of proper ventilation. Install ready-to-use raft-R-mate attic rafter vents between roof rafters. This provides unrestricted air flow through the soffits into the attic, reducing the risk of condensation.

For detailed instructions on how to install attic insulation to help make your home more energy-efficient, visit www.pinksavesenergy.ca.

*Savings vary depending on original amount of insulation in your home, climate, house size, air leaks, and personal energy use and living habits.

The colour PINK is a registered trademark of Owens Corning

Source: www.newscanada.com
Visit our website at: www.thenewsleader.ca

Insulate against roof damage

2009-01-26T15:18:00.000-08:00

(NC)—When was the last time you ventured into your attic? If you can't remember, it's probably about time to inspect it. With slippery driveways and snow-shoveling on your mind, it's easy to forget about the important role the attic plays in your home during the winter. Left unattended for too long, you run the risk of handling time-consuming and costly problems in the future, particularly on your roof.

“Sometimes, homeowners forget to check if they have proper insulation and airflow in their attic before the cold winter arrives,” says David Flood, Insulation Expert, Owens Corning. “If your attic isn't properly insulated and ventilated, you can encounter problems such as ice dams on your roof.”

Ice dams occur when hot air builds inside the attic and reaches the underside of your roof. This can cause snow or ice on your roof to melt and glide onto unheated areas such as your roof's overhang. The snow and ice that build at the end of your roof can cause water to build up and flow under and between your roof's shingles. These ice dams can cause annoying leaks and possibly destroy your roof and shingles when refrozen – an expense that can be costly to fix.

But there are preventative measures you can take right now, all in the confines of the indoors. It begins with properly insulating your attic to prevent warm air from escaping through your home's ceilings and up into your attic. Here are three tips to help prevent your attic and roofing woes:

• Install at least 15 inches of PINK FIBERGLAS batt insulation in your attic to create a solid thermal barrier that limits the amount of warm air escaping your home and reaching your roof.

• Alongside adequate insulation, ensure your attic is properly ventilated to help keep air flowing in and out of your attic. Installing raft-R-mate attic rafter vents helps maintain this continuous airflow. This can help prevent moisture build up, which can lead to condensation and expensive repairs.

• Keep an eye on your roof. Branches and leaves from nearby trees can destroy your roof by creating piles of leaves which retain water. This can make your attic susceptible to water infiltration.

Always tackle attic and roofing problems sooner rather than later. Head into your attic and evaluate your home's condition. Your local hardware store will have all the supplies and tools you need to address any attic problems you may find. For more information on protecting your home against ice dams, visit www.pinksavesenergy.ca.

The colour PINK is a registered trademark of Owens Corning

Source: www.newscanada.com
Visit our website at: www.thenewsleader.ca

Mastering your first do-it-yourself project

2009-01-19T08:46:00.000-08:00

(NC)—Have you ever looked around your home and become overwhelmed by all the renovation projects you want to take on? Do you become lightheaded just thinking about where or even how to begin? Don't fret. It is possible to become a master of your own do-it-yourself project. The key to mastering your renovation aspirations is to start small and simple. Before you know it, friends may be asking in amazement, “Did you really do this yourself?”

“One way to familiarize yourself with your renovation abilities and the ins and outs of your home is by taking on a small inexpensive project,” says David Flood, Insulation Expert, Owens Corning. “Start with a project such as insulating your attic – this may seem like a tall order but the renovation can be quite easy and can help save you money on heating costs over time.”

While insulating your attic may not have people complimenting your craftsmanship, they will definitely envy your home upgrade and potential savings on your energy bills. As a first-timer, don't be too ambitious. Rather, take charge and step up to your first endeavour in your attic. Here are some points to consider:

• Approximately 7,000,000 homes in Canada are under-insulated and do not meet the recommended attic insulation level of R-50. Make sure that your home isn't one of them!

• Inadequately insulated attics may cause hot air from inside your home to escape outdoors and right through the roof – taking your energy bills right along with it!

• Use PINK FIBERGLAS batt insulation to insulate your attic to achieve a value of R-50 (that's a total of 15 inches of insulation). This can help you qualify for a government grant of up to $600 and may save you a significant amount in costs for the overall attic upgrade.

For step-by-step instructions on how to tackle your first attic insulation upgrade visit, www.pinksavesenergy.ca.

The colour PINK is a registered trademark of Owens Corning

Source: www.newscanada.com
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