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SPRING-SUMMER 2008
Volume 42 | Number 1
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2008 IS THE FORTY-SECOND YEAR FOR HOME IMPROVEMENT TIME …
AN ANNUAL INDUSTRY-SPONSORED PROMOTION AND PUBLIC INFORMATION PROGRAM
ABOUT HOME IMPROVEMENT AND ENERGY MANAGEMENT
7425 Steubenville Pike • P.O. Box 247 • Oakdale, PA 15071-0247 • Phone: 412 787-2881 • E-Mail: [email protected]
SPRING-SUMMER 2008 SPONSOR DIRECTORY
ABET INC., 60 West Sheffield Ave.,
Englewood, NJ 07631. CONTACT: Rosemarie
Murphy PHONE: 201-541-0700 FAX: 201541-0701 EMAIL: [email protected]
AMERICAN ENERGY SYSTEMS INC., 150
Michigan Street SE, Hutchinson, MN 55350.
CONTACT: Jessica Schauer PHONE: 800495-3196 FAX: 320-587-8872 EMAIL:
[email protected]
AMERICAN HARDWOOD INFORMATION
CENTER, 400 Penn Center Blvd.,Site 530,
Pittsburgh, PA 15235. CONTACT: Linda
Jovanovich PHONE: 412-829-0770 E-MAIL:
[email protected] WEBSITE:
www.hardwoodinfo.com
ARMSTRONG CEILINGS, P. O. Box 3001,
Lancaster, PA 17604 WEBSITE: http://
www.armstrong.com CONTACT: Christin
McNeil, SBC Advertising – Public Relations
Division PHONE: 614-891-7070 FAX: 614-8913664 E-MAIL: [email protected]
BONAKEMI USA, INC., 2550 S. Parker Rd.,
Suite 600, Aurora, CO 80014. CONTACT:
Marketing Communications Manager PHONE: 800-872-5515 FAX: 303-371-6958
E-MAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE:
www.bonakemi.com
CEDARSTORE.COM, (The Cedar Store),
5410 Route 8, Gibsonia, Pa 15044 PHONE:
888-293-2339 Toll Free FAX: 724-444-5301
EMAIL:
[email protected]
WEBSITE: www.cedarstore.com
COPPER DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION,
260 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016
WEBSITE: www.copper.org. CONTACT:
Danielle McAuley, Manager, Communications,
PHONE: 212-251-7200 FAX: 212-251-7234 EMAIL: [email protected]
CRAFTMASTER® INTERIOR DOORS, 500 West
Monroe St., Suite 2010, Chicago, IL 60661 PHONE:
800-405-2233 EMAIL: [email protected]
WEBSITE: www.cmicompany.com
EDISON ELECTRIC INSTITUTE, 701 Pennsylvania Avenue., North West, Washington, DC
20004. CONTACT: Keith Voight – PHONE: 202508-5683 FAX: 202-508-5110 E-MAIL:
[email protected] WEBSITE: www.eei.org
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR MAGAZINE,
PHONE:
301-657-3110
WEBSITE:
www.ecmag.com CONTACT: Lorelei Harloe,
Ascend Communication, LLC PHONE: 703-3622774 EMAIL: [email protected]
ENDLESS POOLS INC., 200 E. Dutton’s Mill
Rd., Aston, PA 19014 CONTACT: Daniel
Fraley, Marketing PHONE: 800-732-8660
EMAIL [email protected] WEBSITE:
www.endlesspools.com
FLO n STOP™ (Millennium International
Development Corp.), 2608 NW Boca Raton
Blvd., Boca Raton, FL 33431. CONTACT:
Florence Segal PHONE: 800-757-2990
EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE:
www.flo-n-stop.com
HOMECREST CABINETRY, P.O. Box 595, Goshen,
IN 46527 CONTACT: Mindy Brooks, PHONE: 574535-9300 EMAIL: [email protected]
W E B S I T E : w w w. h o m e c re s t i n f o . c o m .
CONTACT: Mary Lou Denny, Walt Denny
Inc., 2 Salt Creek Lane, Suite 114, Hinsdale
IL 60521 PHONE: 630-323-0555 E-MAIL:
[email protected]
INSPIRE ROOFING PRODUCTS, A Division
of the Tapco Group, WEBSITE:
www.inspireroofing.com. CONTACT: Mary
Lou Denny, Walt Denny Inc., 2 Salt Creek
Lane, Suite 114, Hinsdale, IL 60521-PHONE:
630-323-0555
E-MAIL:
[email protected]
INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ARBORICULTURE (ISA), PHONE: WEBSITE: www.isaarbor.com. CONTACT: Sonia Abney, Marketing
Coordinator, P.O. Box 3129, Champaign, IL
61826-3129 PHONE: 217-355-9516
L. E. JOHNSON PRODUCTS, INC., Stephen
Johnson, Michael Myers, 2100 Sterling
Avenue, Elkhart, IN 46516. WEBSITE:
www.johnsonhardware.com PHONE: 800837-5664. CONTACT: Mary Lou Denny, Walt
Denny Inc., 2 Salt Creek Lane, Suite 114,
Hinsdale, IL 60521 PHONE: 630-323-0555 EMAIL: [email protected]
LYROPA TOOL COMPANY, PHONE: 800924-0344 E-MAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE:
www.twist-lok.com. CONTACT: Sheila
Friedman PHONE: 215-757-1739 FAX: 775361-6381 Cell: 215-808-9399 E-MAIL:
[email protected]
MIRREDGE™ (Millennium International
Development Corp.), 2608 NW Boca Raton
Blvd., Boca Raton, FL 33431. CONTACT:
Florence Segal PHONE: 800-757-2990
www.mirredge.com
M I R AT E C ®
T R E AT E D
EXTERIOR
COMPOSITE TRIM, PHONE: 800-255-0785
www.cmicompany.com
MR. BAMBOO, INC., 55 Kelly Street, Elk
Grove, IL 60007 PHONE: 888-MRBAMBU
C O N TA C T:
Steven
Wa n g
EMAIL:
[email protected]
WEBSITE:
www.mrbamboocabinets.com
ROYAL OUTDOOR PRODUCTS, CONTACT:
Mary Lou Denny, Walt Denny Inc.,,2 Salt Creek
Lane, Suite 114, Hinsdale, IL 60521 PHONE: 630323-0555. E-MAIL: [email protected]
SCREEN MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION,
CONTACT: Frank S. Fitzgerald, Executive V.P.,
Suite 114, 2850 S. Ocean Blvd., Palm Beach,
FL 33480-6205 PHONE: 561-533-0991 EMAIL: [email protected],Kathryn R.
Fitzgerald, Fitzgerald Management Corporation,
E-MAIL: [email protected] WEB:
www.SMAINFO.org
SHOWER BRIDGE™ (Millennium International Development Corp.), 2608 NW
Boca Raton Blvd., Boca Raton, FL 33431.
CONTACT: Florence Segal PHONE: 800-7572990 EMAIL: [email protected]
WEBSITE: www.showerbridge.com
STARK GLASS BLOCK, 4018 12 Street, NW,
Canton, OH 44708 PHONE: 3300-478-5673 FAX:
330-477-6174 E-MAIL: [email protected]
W E B S I T E : w w w. s t a r k g l a s s b l o c k . c o m
CONTACT: David Martin Marketing, 701
Hayes Avenue, Oak Park, IL PHONE: 708848-9062 E-MAIL: david.martin34@comcast.
STONECRAFT INDUSTRIES, A Division of
the
Tapco
Group
WEBSITE:
www.stonecraft.com. CONTACT: Mary Lou
Denny, Walt Denny Inc., 2 Salt Creek Lane,
Suite 114, Hinsdale, IL 60521 PHONE: 630323-0555 E-MAIL: [email protected]
SUN PIPE COMPANY, INC., P.O. Box 6760,
Elgin, IL 60121-5760. CONTACT: Customer
Service PHONE: 800-844-4786 WEBSITE:
w w w. s u n p i p e . c o m E - M A I L :
[email protected]
THE LAWN INSTITUTE, 2 East Main Street,
E. Dundee, IL 60118 PHONE: 800-405-8873 Toll
F r e e 8 4 7 - 6 4 9 - 5 5 5 5 FA X : 8 4 7 - 6 4 9 5 6 7 8
E-MAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE:
www.TheLawnInstitute.org
U S G C O R P O R AT I O N , 5 5 0 We s t A d a m
Street, Chicago, IL 60661 PHONE: 3126 0 6 - 4 0 0 0 W E B S I T E : w w w. u s g . c o m .
CONTACT: Kevin Metz, HRS Business to
Business, 321 North Clark St., Suite 930,
Chicago, IL 6061 PHONE: 312-595-0203,
E-MAIL:Kmetz@[email protected]
WALLIES ®, 2279 Woodsview Dr., Bensalem,
PA 19020-6016. PHONE: 800-255-2762
WEBSITE: www.wallies.com. CONTACT:
Sheila Friedman PHONE: 215-757-1739 FAX:
775-361-6381 Cell: 215-808-9399 E-MAIL:
[email protected]
FIRESTONE SPECIALTY PRODUCTS, 250
West 96th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46240
PHONE:
800
428-4442
WEBSITE:
www.firestonesp.com
NATIONAL FOOD & ENERGY COUNCIL, INC.,
2333 Rombach Avenue, P.O. Box 309,
Wilmington, OH 45177-0309. CONTACT:
Richard S. Hiatt PHONE: 1-937-383-0001 FAX:
1-937-383-0003 WEBSITE: www.nfec.org
WELLCRAFT™ EGRESS SYSTEMS, A
Division of the Tapco Group WEBSITE:
www.wellcraftwells.com. CONTACT: Mary Lou
Denny, Walt Denny Inc., 2 Salt Creek Lane, Suite
114, Hinsdale, IL 60521 PHONE: 630-323-0555
E-MAIL: [email protected]
FIRST CONTROL™ (Millennium International Development Corp.), 2608 NW
Boca Raton Blvd., Boca Raton, FL 33431.
CONTACT: Florence Segal PHONE: 800-7572990 EMAIL: [email protected]
WEBSITE: www.firstfirecontrol.com
ROHM AND HAAS COMPANY, Architectural
and Functional Coatings. CONTACT: Debbie
Zimmer, 100 Independence Mall West,
Philadelphia, PA 19106 PHONE: 215-6191407. E-MAIL: [email protected]
WEBSITE: www.paintquality.com
WERNER LADDER, Greenville, PA WEBSITE:
www.wernerladder.com. CONTACT: Marietta
Egervary, Emerson Egervary & Associates,
Inc., 1609 Main Street, Lisburn, PA 170555944 PHONE: 717-697-1100 FAX: 717-6910433 E-MAIL: [email protected]
CMYK 432
Healthy Home Improvements:
The Swimming Pool You’ve Always Wanted
(HIT)-A new generation of weight-conscious, health-conscious
and fun-couscious homeowners are discovering the fitness benefits of swimming in a professional quality lap pool…year
round…right at home. If a pool is on your of list home upgrades
and you are looking for energy efficiency, Pennsylvania manufacturer, Endless Pools, Inc., sells a range of popular swimming
machines that can use existing spaces such as basements, garages,
enclosed porches, or patios to get you moving. The compact 8' x
15' modular design lap pools are ideal for swimming, water aerobics, aqua therapy and fun. If you already own a swimming pool,
Endless Pools newest product Fastlane® retrofits to any outdoor
pool making the traditional backyard pool more than just a place
to cool off and splash around.
With the Fastlane® swimming machine, no matter the size of your
pool, you can swim for miles and miles without moving an inch.
Health Benefits Of Swimming
Swimming and water based exercise has long been the favored
method for exercise and therapy for millions of Americans each
year. Doctors and physical therapists agree this low impact sport
is easy on the joints and back and can be the key to faster recovery for debilitating ailments and injuries.
• Water provides buoyancy and support for the body. When
you’re neck-deep in water, you’re only supporting 10% of your
actual body weight but you can exercise at eight times the resistance. Water pressure helps control swelling that often accompanies injury as well. You can even increase your physical
fitness while you recuperate and avoid prolonged physical
therapy.
• Water exercise is also an excellent weight loss tool. A person’s
whole body changes when they swim. They become healthier
with regular water-based exercise. People who want to get fit
and stay fit find they make greater progress in a pool than on
land. But for many people the thought of owning a pool or
simply doing water based exercise conjures a very different
image; pool maintenance, expense, mammoth construction efforts, limited space, driving to the gym, gym fees, limited gym
hours, heavy chlorine, locker rooms, and accessibility problems. At what point do the benefits outweigh the cost and
hassle?
Planning For An Endless Pool®
The Endless Pool® Swimming Machine, number one in the industry, is easy to install and an affordable way to make swimming and water exercise part of your daily routine. The modular
design makes it adaptable to any location or installation. With
the right pool and the right situation virtually anyone can swim
at home.
• Length and width will dictate whether you should plan to install the pool in your home or outdoors.
* Do you have at least an 11' x 18' area with a minimum 7ft
ceiling?
* Does this area have a concrete slab typical of a garage or
basement?
* If so, you can swim year-round in an Endless Pool from the
privacy of your own home.
* If you don’t have the space indoors, carve out an area in
your backyard.
* Depending on your climate and ambition both the indoor and
outdoor installation can be completed in as little as two days
by two relatively handy people.
• Using technology that provides a smooth, even, adjustable current, the Endless Pools swimming machine come in a kit form
making self installation possible.
• Standard copper/silver purification system reduces the need for
chemical sanitizers, such as chlorine, by 80 percent.
Options Can Enhance Pool, Save Natural Resources
• Use of underwater lights brightens basements and darker
spaces.
• A security cover can control moisture and humidity or keep
out leaves and other debris.
• Optional hydrotherapy jets can offer comfort for sore muscles.
• Water quality systems purify and reduce the need for chlorine.
• An electric or gas powered water heater will maintain the temperature you like.
• For special access to the pool you may want to consider grab
bars and corner stairs to aid entry.
Swimming and water exercise can be done for a lifetime.
The question is, would you like it to improve your way of
life, and if so, where would you like to do it? A gallery of
popular pool styles and locations can be viewed at the Endless Pools, Inc.website, www.endlesspools.com and the company has a free DVD which can be requested online or by
phone at 800-233-0741.
“Green” Your Home With Natural, Sustainable
American Hardwoods
(HIT)-Looking for an earth-friendly
way to add beauty and warmth to the
home? Green, sustainable American
hardwood floors, cabinetry and trim add
natural elegance to today’s interiors.
American hardwoods are homegrown. According to the American
Hardwood Information Center
(www.hardwoodinfo.com), you don’t
have to search the globe for renewable
and sustainable materials. Locally harvested alder, birch, cherry, hickory,
maple and oak, just to name a few species, have been bringing warmth and
beauty to homes for centuries.
If you are an environmentally conscious consumer looking to remodel
your home with green materials, consider these reasons for choosing
American hardwoods:
Tried and True. American hardwoods are classic and lend character and
distinction to the home. They are the
gold standard for floors, cabinets, furniture, woodwork, paneling and trim.
Renewing Resource. Naturally
abundant in American forests,
nearly twice as much hardwood
grows as is harvested each year. The
volume of hardwoods is 90 percent
larger than it was 50 years ago, according to the US Forest Service.
T h a t ’s t h e v e r y d e f i n i t i o n o f
sustainability.
Lasting value. With useful lives
spanning generations, furniture,
flooring, cabinetry and trim crafted
of American hardwoods will be
around long after their synthetic
counterparts.
Selection. Nearly two dozen
abundant species provide plenty of
variety in color, grain, character and
pattern, giving you more choices
than any other temperate hardwood
forest in the world.
Healthy. Low-VOC finishes keep
hardwoods looking great and performing well. They’re easy to maintain with non-toxic cleaners and
they don’t trap dust, dirt and other
allergens.
Five Ways to Go Green with
American Hardwoods
• Begin with the floor. Create a border
around a lighter toned floor with medium toned hardwoods in contrasting
shades. Hardwood inlays and stenciling are another way to add character
or carve out distinct living areas
within a large open space.
• Make a statement with built-in cabinets featuring several contrasting
hardwoods.
• Upgrade your table: solid hardwood
can stand up to a busy family’s wear
and tear.
• Add interest with mouldings, window trim, picture or chair rail, paneling and wainscoting.
• Try a tray ceiling for the “wow”
effect.
For more ideas on adding warmth
and elegance to your home with
American hardwoods, visit the American Hardwood Information Center at
www.hardwoodinfo.com
CMYK 452
Built-in maple entertainment unit is housed in an unused closet.
Photo courtesy of Minwax (www.minwax.com)
1
CMYK 466
All Decked Out!
Help Extend the Life of Your
Deck with Tips from the Rohm
and Haas Paint Quality Institute
(HIT)-“As the summer season approaches, decks are the living and entertaining space of choice for many
homeowners. However, before home-
owners pull out that table and umbrella,
they should consider re-energizing this
space with a fresh coat of paint or stain,”
Debbie Zimmer, color and paint expert with the Rohm and Haas Paint
Quality Institute says. “Not only will
this step enhance this often-used ex-
terior ‘room’, but it can also protect
the actual wood surface allowing the
deck last longer.”
“While browns and grey continue
to be favorite color selections when
painting or staining a deck,
homeowners are increasingly choosing combinations that suit their home
or decorating style. If you’re not quite
ready to add multiple hues to the entire space, add a punch of color by
incorporating complementary colors
onto planter boxes, built-in benches or
even deck trellises,” Zimmer advises.
Remember, when it comes to painting your deck, you have plenty of options to harmonize or complement
your outdoor surroundings.
1. A coat of semi-transparent stain
can be a great way to spruce up a
wooden deck. It lets you add some
color to the wood without hiding its
grain or texture.
2. If viewing the wood grain is not
a high priority, an opaque deck stain
can be a better choice. These products, which can be oil based or latex, are more like paints in their pigmentation and so typically hold up
longer than a semi transparent stain.
3. Of course, if you don’t want to
show either the grain or the texture
of the wood, a quality porch and
deck paint or enamel may be the
way to go. It will last longer than
any type of stain although you may
need to use a primer for best results.
About the Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute
The Paint Quality Institute was formed by Rohm and Haas Company in 1989 to
educate people on the advantages of using quality interior and exterior paints and coatings. The Paint Quality Institute’s goal is to provide information on the virtues of quality
paint as well as color trends and decorating with paint through a variety of vehicles,
including television appearances, newspaper and magazine articles, and instructional literature. Be sure to visit the Paint Quality Institute at www.paintquality.com.
Basement Remodels Can Be Functional,
Stylish And Affordable
(HIT)-The basement is no longer a
dark, underutilized space used primarily for storage. In fact, homeowners’
attitudes toward basements have
changed so much in recent years that
builders and real estate agents now
commonly call them “lower levels.”
Basement remodels are a smart investment because today’s homeowner
needs every room in the home to be
functional–and they’re using all available space. While the housing market
has dipped in recent years, home remodeling remains strong as homeowners are choosing to renovate rather
than buying new.
The basement is now considered a
retreat, especially during cold-weather
months. But more importantly, the basement can be tailored to the individual
needs of any homeowner. They can be
media rooms, bedrooms, laundry rooms,
wet bars, home offices, exercise rooms
or children’s play rooms.
“An unfinished basement has almost
unlimited potential,” notes Katie
Hamilton, DIY expert and co-author of
Home Improvement For Dummies. “It’s
a blank slate of usable living space–the
design and function is all really up to
home-owners’ tastes and needs.”
Homeowners considering a makeover
can take comfort in the fact that basement remodels are also economical.
According to Remodeling magazine’s
2007 Cost vs. Value report, basement
remodels recoup 75 percent of costs, on
average, in the first year. That’s among
the highest of home remodeling options.
So, what are the options for home-owners looking to remodel their basement?
2
“Start with needs,” says Hamilton.
“Figure out what would be the most
beneficial addition to the home, and then
consider design.”
“Today’s homeowner wants comfort
and style, no matter the type of remodel,” says Ann Miller, product design
manager at Armstrong. “Natural and traditional looks are en vogue, and consumers are progressively choosing the
ceiling as the design focus.”
With the popularity of recessed lighting in basements, naturally the ceiling
offers an easy place to start. Armstrong
is one company that offers a diverse line
of decorative and traditional suspended
ceiling products that emphasize natural
styles while allowing for necessary access to the home’s HVAC, plumbing and
electrical systems that often run in between basement ceiling joists.
Armstrong’s HomeStyle ™ line of
mineral fiberboard drop-in ceiling
panels are perfect for basements, as
they offer the ability to block noise
room-to-room and come in a wide variety of designs. And they’re much
more distinct and stylish than the
bland, office-setting ceiling panels
that normally come to mind. Applied
in a matching grid system that allows
for easy access above the ceiling, the
panels can be cut as needed to make
way for lights and fans.
For homeowners that desire something a little more traditional and
stately, Armstrong’s Metallaire™ line
of decorative metal ceiling tiles and
cornices is available in five finishes:
steel, copper, brass, chrome and
paintable white. Home improvement
gurus, such as Hamilton, utilize the
tiles to emphasize the ceiling as a design element because of their elegance
and brilliance. But most of all, they can
also be placed in a matching grid.
“Metallaire is our most popular tra-
ditional decorative ceiling option,”
notes Rich Wiley, associate marketing
manager for Armstrong’s residential
ceilings division. “Homeowners love
that they can have something that
looks fantastic while still allowing
access to the home’s systems above.”
But that’s only the beginning. If
you’re considering remodeling the
basement, start at the top and check
out all the ceiling options at
www.armstrong.com
Basements continue to evolve into functional, livable space. And ceilings are playing a more
important role in basement room design than ever before.
CMYK 477
CMYK 446
Nothing Enriches A Home’s Value Like
The Beauty Of Stone
(HIT)-Whether used indoors
or outdoors, stone adds warmth
and character that no other building material can deliver. Once,
only the very wealthy could afford homes graced by the sophistication of stone. But with today’s
manufactured stone veneer products, stone’s exquisite looks are
within the reach of a wide range
of homeowners.
When homeowners are faced
with the challenge of how to
make their homes stand out,
manufactured stone is a solid solution. StoneCraft™ manufactured stone veneer comes in several options which look like natural stone, but is easier to install
and more affordable.
Manufactured stone adds limitless potential to outdoor living
areas. Picture a patio of inspired
Fieldstone which projects a warm
strength, with an adjacent outdoor
fireplace, barbecue pit and waterfall hewn from gorgeous River
Rock, whose rounded edges and
earth tones impart both country
charm and a sense of permanence.
The warmth and charm
of stone is accessible to
more homeowners with
affordable manufactured stone veneers from
StoneCraft.
Surrounding this elegant setting
could be a privacy wall built from
stunning Lake Stone, Quartz or
Monarch styles.
Inside, nothing adds a homey,
rustic charm to a family room or
den like the rugged look of stone.
Imagine a fireplace and even interior walls crafted of Heritage stone,
for a warm, classic feel. Envision
a kitchen boasting walls of bold,
beautiful Ledgestone, with its
clean linear appearance with
varying heights and depths.
Back outside, manufactured
stone provides curb appeal unlikely to be matched by any
other home in the neighborhood. Measured against ordinary brick or siding exteriors,
a home graced by traditional
Fieldstone brings additional
substance and strength. This
stone imparts an eye-catching
European charm to even the most
contemporary construction.
Nine styles with a variety of
colors are available from
StoneCraft. “These products provide a distinctive ‘Texture for
Living™’ to your home’s exterior, and come with a 50-year
limited warranty,” said Jonathan
Wierengo, Director of Market-
Offering rugged sophistication, StoneCraft’s manufactured stone veneers add to
the handsomeness of kitchens, baths, hearths and home exteriors.
ing for The Tapco Group™,
maker of StoneCraft.
“In a world of cookie cutter houses with siding or brick
facades, manufactured stone
brings a customized beauty to
any home, and it’s a smart investment that pays nice dividends in the years to come,”
Wierengo added.
StoneCraft is a division of The
Tapco Group and a U.S. Green Building Council Member. For more information, visit: www.stonecraft.com
or call 888-580-6448.
Open The Door To A New Home Décor
(HIT)-From newlyweds and
urban singles to second-home
owners and empty nesters, home
décor and remodeling isn’t just
for the pros any more. Do-ityourself (DIY) is today’s hottest
home design trend.
As consumers of all ages take
DIY home matters into their
own hands–literally–one of the
quickest, easiest and most affordable ways to add personality and freshen up the look of
any home is to install new
raised-panel doors throughout
the house.
Doors with a Purpose
Doors serve as the entry to a
room and convey its initial im-
CraftMaster Doors are manufactured by CMI from molded,
high-density fiberboard to resist
shrinking, cracking and joint
separation. Designs range from
two, three, four and six panels,
and many are available in either
a textured wood grain or smooth
finish. For do-it-yourselfers, the
most important feature is that
they are easy to install and offer
immediate design results.
Great Look, Low
Maintenance
Do your existing doors match
or complement your current
decorating style, color scheme
and wall coverings? Are they
worn out, split or damaged? Re-
pression. As such, they play an
integral role in home décor and
should be considered along with
any home improvement or remodeling project. Spend a few
minutes looking at your home’s
interior doors–from the main
floor to the bedrooms and even
your closet’s bi-folds. Chances
are the doors don’t offer much in
the way of style. Or, what style
there is may not match your current decorating tastes.
You can change all that this
weekend. Just visit your local
lumberyard, home center or visit
with a professional remodeler
and look for new doors with
raised-panel designs that complement your interior décor. Installing new raised-panel doors
throughout your home is inexpensive compared to many renovations or decorating projects.
For example, the average
home has about 20 interior passage doors. Replacing every one
with a new hollow core door,
such as the line of doors available from CraftMaster® Interior
Doors, costs less than a new
chair and ottoman. Replacing
each door with a new, solid core
door costs less than a new sofa
or sectional.
“With so much emphasis today
on quick home makeovers, fast
and easy room redesigns, and the
latest products to simplify our
lives, raised-panel doors have
become increasingly popular
among homeowners who want
the decorative appeal of sculpted
doors without the cost and maintenance of solid wood,” says Bob
Merrill, president and CEO for
interior door manufacturer CMI
in Chicago.
placing them with new, raisedpanel molded doors can energize
an otherwise bland, lifeless space.
And, upgrading to doors with
solid cores is a great way to duplicate the feel of a solid wood
door, block out noise from nearby
rooms and further improve durability. Molded panel, solid core
doors are ideal for families, in
particular, because they are extremely durable and require low
maintenance.
When replacing doors, many
home-owners often keep the existing frame and simply buy new
doors, called slabs. For ease of
installation, measure each door’s
hinge and doorknob location and
order the doors pre-drilled. For a
CMYK 465
fresh new look, you can purchase
a pre-hung door and replace the
frame.
There are many styles, finishes
and sizes available to showcase
your home’s true character. For
example, the CraftMaster
Corvado™ is a two-panel, squaretop, plank interior door. The
smooth-surfaced design is versatile enough to complement a
broad range of home décors from
Southwestern and rustic to contemporary.
Other designs include curved, arched- and eyebrow-top panels, and a variety of configurations to complement today’s trim
and cabinet packages or to add
sophistication to any room. Stan-
dard door height is 6-feet, 8inches; however, if you have high
ceilings, 7- and 8-foot-tall doors
are available in smooth and
wood grain textured finishes
and in a variety of raised-panel
designs.
Beyond the added beauty,
raised-panel doors are engineered to resist swelling, shrinking and splitting. In the case of
painted doors, this prevents
cracks in the paint film and
avoids adding one more project
to your to-do list.
To learn more about transforming your home décor with
new door designs call CraftMaster
at 800-405-2233 or visit
www.craftmasterdoors.com.
3
CMYK 429
Bathroom Beautification Begins At The Door
A dramatic enhancement to any bathroom entrance along with
savings in valuable floor space can easily be achieved with a doorin-the-wall installation using a Johnson Pocket Door Frame.
Johnson also offers Pocket Door locks that can be installed in
minutes—without invalidating the door manufacturer’s warranty.
(HIT)-The bathroom is usually the
smallest room in the house, but it’s
possible to reclaim as much as 10
square feet of space. When remodeling or in new construction, the addition of a pocket door can not only save
precious space, but make a design
statement as well.
Using a Pocket Door Frame, you
can eliminate doorway clutter and free
up extra space in any bathroom by installing a door-in the-wall in place of
a conventional swinging door.
Standard doors require eight to ten
square feet of floor space around an
entry. But a pocket door allows floor
space to be used right up to the door
opening–in effect, giving you a bigger bathroom.
In addition to bringing a more open
feel to the room, installing a pocket door
helps you control appearance. Doors of
virtually any design and finish can be
selected, so doorways that were once
ordinary can be transformed into dramatic room features. A pocket door installation enhances entryways by contributing a neat and modern look.
The Johnson Pocket Door Frame provides special features that simplify initial installation and keep the system operating trouble-free over time. A boxshaped track with convex rails keeps
hanger wheels from jumping off. Keyhole slots in the track make it easy to
remove without breaking into walls.
The Johnson pocket door frame also
has rust-resistant, zinc-coated, steelsided studs and jamb to provide a rigid
surface for walls and prevent accidental nail penetration that could damage
doors. Self-adjusting anchors keep
eventual floor settling from disturbing
horizontal alignment of the header and
track. These and other innovations have
been built into the system to eliminate
problems that used to be a source of
common complaints.
First timers can install a Johnson
Pocket Door Frame with common hand
tools in about 30 minutes. Practiced professionals can often do the job in ten
minutes or less.
Of course, the beautifying and spacesaving advantages of pocket doors are
not limited just to bathrooms. The convenience and versatility of a Pocket
Door Frame makes it possible to enhance closets, kitchens, dining rooms or
other areas throughout the home.
Accessories include a converging
door kit for joining two pocket door
frames, doors pulls and privacy locks.
The privacy locks fit standard pre-bored
doors. You can install them without cutting the door and invalidating the
manufacturer’s warranty.
For more information on how you can
easily and affordably beautify your
bathroom or any other room in the house
with Johnson Pocket Door Frame, write
to Pocket Door Ideas, L.E. Johnson
Products, Inc., 2100 Sterling Avenue,
Elkhart, IN 46516, Phone: 1-800-8375664 or visit our web site at http://
www.johnsonhardware.com
Did You
Know?
Home Improvement Time editorial
material is available through an
automatically updating RSS news feed.
To subscribe log onto
www.HomeImprovementTime.com
SunPiped Light…Bringing The Sun’s
Many Benefits Indoors
Healthy, Natural Sunlight
(HIT)-For the most part the modern family lives indoors, works indoors, and plays indoors. And even
though we know better, basking in
healthy sunlight has often been relegated to an occasional vacation at the
beach, a few rounds on the golf
course, and some sprinkles of sunshine as we dash from the car to the
supermarket. At the other end of the
spectrum are the sun worshipers who
bake in the sun and frequent their local dermatologists because of it. Striking a balance with nature is increasingly becoming the wave of the future.
Recent studies have shed new light
on the value of sunshine in the health
and well-being of man (and woman and
child), establishing guidelines for Vitamin D (sunshine) intake and a new look
at the need for sunlight even among
those with previous sun-damaged skin.
The new studies underscore the need for
appropriate solar exposure as key to a
longer and healthier life.
Recent headlines, accordingly, both
glare and gloss over the controversy
of natural climate change. By using
daylight to illuminate interior spaces,
it has been reported that we could
eliminate a major amount of climate
changing CO2 in indoor settings, and
the heat which they introduce. Can
4
there be any possible justification for
not taking advantage of this safe,
available, and nonpolluting natural
light source?
Sun Pipes Keep Homes And
Businesses Cool In Summer
While we can’t exactly bottle and
sell real sunlight, one innovative
mid-American company has found
a way to harness and deliver it. Using reflective pipes up to 40 feet in
length, Greg Miller, owner of The
Sun Pipe Company, Inc., in Elgin,
Illinois, has been helping homes
and business bring in free natural
light for almost twenty years. The
company’s origin could perhaps be
described as an “ultimate pipe
dream”–as Greg worked out a plan
to brighten indoor settings without
the summer heat and the winter heat
loss which plague traditional skylights.
SunPipe’s Simple Design.
The highly reflective hollow pipe
reflects daylight through the roof and
attic into sun-starved rooms. According to Miller, when daylight hits the
diffuser, it glows with the equivalence
of up to 900, 1500 or even 3000 watts
worth of light depending on the diameter of the SunPipe (9", 13" and 21"
respectively). Season, the time of day,
and the type of day (i.e. sunny or overcast), naturally effect the SunPipe’s
brightness.
Besides the obvious benefit in energy efficiency and savings, natural
light adds a unique dimension to every decorating scheme–opening up
possibilities for using previously unusable space. Approximately eighty
percent of Greg Millers clients are
homeowners, but don’t tell it to his industrial and institutional customer
base–presently including offices, airports, a brewery, schools, warehouses,
government buildings, and even a zoo
and three wineries.
“Personal responsibility,” says
Miller, “means doing things the
right way and not causing the release of unnecessary pollutants into
our eco system.”
The typical SunPipe costs $400 to
$600 installed and will prevent over
3 tons of CO 2 from entering our air
over the next 10 years. All this while
providing healthy, natural interior illumination, far superior to any electric light in color and intensity. It just
makes good common sense to implement such technology.
SunPipe customers are so happy,
Miller believes SunPipe® will becoming a standard component of residen-
CMYK 438
tial and industrial construction. And,
since it reduces the need for electric
lighting, it earns the distinctive role
of being a truly earth friendly product. “You can make daylight a natural
phenomenon in your home–while
helping to cut the overall electrical
load and put the savings aside for
your next vacation.”
For further information call them
toll free at 800-844-4786 or go to
wwwsunpipe.com.
Small 9" SunPipe® (left) delivers far more daylight than larger
18 x 18 skylight (right) with virtually no impact on heating or
cooling costs, security or privacy.
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471
474
Low, No-Cost
Energy Saving Tips
Did You
Know?
(HIT)-You know that making your
home more energy efficient can help
you save money. But did you know that
you making your home more efficient
doesn’t take a lot of work?
Here are ten, low- or no-cost tips for
saving energy from Edison Electric Institute. They’re easy, and you can get
started today:
• In the winter, set your home’s temperature to 68 degrees, and lower it
when you’re away or overnight. In the
summer, set the thermostat to 78 degrees, and raise it when you’re away.
A programmable “setback” thermostat
can make these changes automatically.
• Clean or replace your air conditioner/
heat pump/furnace filter every month.
• Keep the curtains open on sunny afternoons in the winter, and close them
in the summer.
• In unused rooms, close the vents and
(HIT)-Your electric company is a
great source for energy saving ideas,
programs and services. The electric
company can help you get more value
from every dollar you spend on electricity. This can help you save money
and protect the environment, according to Edison Electric Institute.
Electric company programs offer
free, expert advice on saving electricity. Many also offer financial incentives to buy energy-efficient appliances, as well as on-line energy audits to help you learn where your home
may be wasting energy.
These energy-efficiency programs
are making a difference. The U.S. Department of Energy says that electric
company efficiency efforts helped to
save almost 800 billion kilowatt-hours
of electricity between 1989 and 2005.
That’s enough electricity to power almost 74 million homes for one year!
And, this savings is equal to the annual electricity output of about 340 average size power plants.
For a free booklet, “More than 100
Ways to Improve Your Electric Bill”, as
well as information about making your
entire home more energy efficient,
please visit www.getenergyactive.org.
keep the door shut.
• Caulk and weatherstrip around windows and doors.
• Set the water heater’s temperature to
120 degrees–check it with a thermometer under a faucet.
• Use low-flow showerheads and faucets.
• Install compact fluorescent light
bulbs in fixtures that are on for more
than two hours a day (note that some
compact fluorescents can’t use dimmer switches).
• Vacuum the refrigerator coils (behind
or underneath your refrigerator) twice
a year.
• Call your electric company or visit
their Web site for more information.
Is Your Home
Wasting Energy?
(HIT)-If it’s not adequately insulated,
it probably is, according to Edison Electric Institute. Insulation helps your
house keep you comfortable. It also
helps your furnace or air conditioner
work less, which can mean lower heating and cooling bills.
To make sure your home is properly
insulated, follow these tips:
• Visit this U.S. Department of Energy Web site to see if your home
has the proper amount of insulation:
http://www.ornl.gov/~roofs/Zip/
ZipHome.html.
469
• Look for holes and other openings
around windows, doors, and pipes.
These let your home’s heated or
cooled air leak out. Plug the leaks
with foam, caulking and weather
stripping.
• Make sure your home’s fireplace has
tightly fitting dampers that can be
closed when the fireplace is not in use.
Home Electronics
Use Growing
(HIT)-Could you live without your
computer? What about a cell phone?
Or microwave? Or television and DVD
player? If your home is like most, it
has an ever-growing number of appliances and gadgets powered by electricity. In fact, according to the Edison
Electric Institute, the average household has 25 electric products plugged
in today. And the electricity these appliances use grows more each year.
It’s really not surprising that our national demand for electricity is at an alltime high–despite enormous gains in
energy efficiency. Rapid population
growth and growing economy will drive
electricity demand even higher over the
next 25 years.
Meeting this demand will be a challenge for America’s electric companies.
It will require them to make major investments in new power plants, as well
as the transmission and distribution systems needed to deliver the electricity to
where it’s used.
Even though your home is using more
electricity than ever before, you can do
a lot to make sure it is using that power
more efficiently. For example, when it
comes time to buy a major appliance,
consider buying one that has earned the
470
ENERGY STAR. These appliances use
10-50 percent less energy to do the
same job as a standard appliance.
Cook Up Some Energy Savings
(HIT)-Your kitchen can be a great
place to cook up some energy savings!
Today’s electric ovens offer many new
features that reduce cooking time, according to the Edison Electric Institute. These same features that speed
up the cooking process also mean
you’ll be using less energy to do the
job. And as a bonus, you’ll be helping
to keep your kitchen and home cooler
too.
Of course, the fastest way to cook
is with your microwave oven. It’s also
the most energy efficient way to heat
food. Each time you use your microwave oven instead of your conventional oven, you’ll be using up to 80
percent less energy.
If you’re shopping for a new range,
consider one with a convection oven.
These use a small fan to circulate the
hot air inside the oven. Circulating the
air speeds up the cooking time by
about 30 percent. And because it cooks
in less time, the oven uses less elec-
tricity. You can also cook multiple
racks of food because the fan ensures
that the air at the top and the bottom
of the oven are the same temperature.
The newest ovens combine a microwave and halogen lamps. These can
cut cooking time and energy use by
66 to 75 percent. But they also cook
472
Light Up Some
Energy Savings
(HIT)-Looking for some bright
ideas to lower your home’s lighting
bill? The Edison Electric Institute offers you the following simple, easy,
and low-cost tips to start saving today:
Plug Into Power Company
For Energy Savings
(HIT)-The energy needed to power,
light, heat, and cool the typical home
grows bigger each year. Larger houses
with more electric appliances are the
reasons why. In fact, according to
Edison Electric Institute, the average
house today uses about 20 percent more
electricity than it did in 1978.
With energy use rising, it’s important
to make sure you’re getting the most
value out of every dollar you spend on
energy. Besides saving money, you’ll also
be helping to protect the environment.
For help in becoming more energy
efficient, turn to your electric company. Your electric company can offer you free, expert advice. Many
companies also have special energysaving programs or services. Some
examples include:
• Financial incentives to encourage
you to buy energy-saving appliances and home weatherization
materials (such as windows, doors,
and insulation).
• Home energy audits you can do
473
food more evenly than a microwave
oven, and they can brown and crisp
as well.
For more energy-efficiency tips on
cooking, as well as a free booklet,
“More than 100 Ways to Improve Your
Electric Bill”, please visit
www.getenergyactive.org.
right from your own computer. An
online energy audit can show you
where your home may be wasting
energy.
• Your electric company may also
have payment plans that enable you
to balance out your energy costs
over an entire year.
• Dust and clean light fixtures regularly.
• Turn off lights when leaving a room.
• Provide task lighting over desks,
tool benches, etc., so that activities
can be carried on without lighting
up the entire room.
• Put lamps in corners of rooms
where they can reflect light from
two wall surfaces instead of one.
• For light fixtures that are on for
more than two hours a day, use compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs).
CFLs use up to two-thirds less electricity. They also last about 10 times
longer. Typically, a 23-watt compact fluorescent bulb can replace a
90- or 100-watt incandescent bulb.
• Use dimmable incandescent and
compact fluorescent bulbs when
possible.
• Install photoelectric controls or timers to make sure that outdoor lighting is turned off during the day.
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5
CMYK 464
CMYK 479
New Exterior Trim Makes Professional Ladder
Series Helps
Great Impression
(HIT)–Whether you are buying a
new home or are selling your existing
one, first impressions are everything.
And, nothing makes a worse initial impression than exterior trim that is
cracked, rotted, peeling or falling
apart.
Wood, one of the traditional trim
materials, may look fine when first installed, but it can split and swell, and
is prone to knots and defects. Other
materials, like polyvinyl chloride
(PVC) and fiber cement trim have performance limitations and may pose
installation challenges.
Today, homeowners and remodelers
are turning to advanced building materials to get long-term performance
from their exterior trim. Locally, and
nationwide, many homeowners have
found MiraTEC ® Treated Exterior
Composite Trim offers the ideal combination of the beauty of wood and the
durability of an engineered product. It
provides the perfect accent to any exterior cladding your house may have:
vinyl, fiber cement, brick, OSB, stone,
stucco, wood or hardboard.
With a clear, wood grain texture on
one side and contemporary smooth finish on the other, MiraTEC is ideal for
any home style. From new home construction to remodeling and repair
projects, MiraTEC is used for roofline
fascia, soffits, window and door trim,
corner trim, dentil, gables, column
wraps, trim along porches and other
non-structural applications.
The Science of Trim
Some engineered wood products,
like MiraTEC, are manufactured by
physically and chemically bonding
resins with wood under heat and pressure. They offer increased durability
(they are harder and more dense than
some species of wood), are consistently straight, and are engineered to
resist shrinking, checking, warping,
cupping and splitting. In addition, they
are widely available and pricing is
stable.
The process used to make MiraTEC
includes a factory-applied mildew-resistant primer on four sides. The end
result is a trim board that offers a
unique combination of moisture, rot
and termite resistance not found in
other materials.
It looks and handles like wood, and
offers superior performance over PVC
and fiber cement trim. For example,
MiraTEC costs half as much as PVC
trim and, unlike PVC, it accepts paint
beautifully and is not affected by temperature extremes.
Compared to fiber cement trim,
MiraTEC is available in longer boards
(16 feet vs. 10 or 12 feet) and does not
require any special installation tools,
making installation easier and more
cost effective. Plus, fiber cement costs
about one-third more than MiraTEC,
and it is harder to cut and nail. Fiber
cement also absorbs over five times
more water than MiraTEC (based on
industry standard 24-hr. soak test),
which can lead to mold and/or mildew
problems if the trim gets wet enough.
What the Pros Use
Because of its durability and low
maintenance requirements, home-
builders across the country use
MiraTEC in a variety of applications.
Dick Collier of R.E. Collier, Inc., a
builder in Richmond, Va., uses
MiraTEC Trim for a variety of
projects, including residential town
homes and low-rise multifamily buildings. He has found it to be an excellent complement to fiber cement siding applications. “Prior to MiraTEC,
we primarily used wood products, including cedar and pine, but we’ve
found that MiraTEC is better than
wood. MiraTEC is easy to install and
paints well. Plus, we really like how it
holds up in our weather and that it offers termite resistance.”
According to Steve Kothman, general manager, Hanson Builders, Inc.,
a custom home and townhome builder
in the northern suburbs of Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minn., “We use MiraTEC
on all exterior trim applications for one
simple reason– performance. It resists
swelling and moisture better than any
other exterior trim product we’ve used,
and it holds paint very well.”
Another builder who also uses
MiraTEC for all his exterior trim is
Mike Reilly of Reilly Homes in
Leavenworth, Kansas. Located in the
rolling hills of northeastern Kansas on
the Missouri River, the Leavenworth/
Lansing area is relatively humid,
which can lead to moisture problems
with wood products. “We were looking for a better answer to issues with
wood rot that we’ve experienced with
cedar and pine trim, particularly
around windows. MiraTEC solved the
problem,” Reilly said. “Incorporating
MiraTEC into all our exterior trim applications has helped us create a truly
low maintenance home.”
Beyond its sheer beauty, MiraTEC
is backed by an industry-best 30year warranty that covers hail and
termite damage, delamination, splitting and more.
If you’re looking to add curb appeal
or are remodeling your home, look for
MiraTEC at most local building
material suppliers. For more information about MiraTEC, call 800-2550785 or visit www.miratectrim.com.
Homeowners Step
Up To The DIY
Challenge
The Contractor’s JobStation™ provides ‘a step up’ in safety,
security and convenience for any DIY or maintenance project.
(HIT)-Contractors aren’t the only ladder users enthused by the Contractor
JobStation™, a performance rated
(Type IAA) fiberglass stepladder introduced last year to expand Werner
Ladder’s award winning Old Blue™
Series of custom designed, industry-specific ladders. Homeowners likewise
have been quick to recognize many features that can make maintenance
projects faster, easier, and safer.
JobStation’s custom Holster Top™
has a MagnaGrip™ heavy duty magnet
that secures tools and hardware for everyday household tasks. It also includes
customized slots designed to hold the
most-used tools, and a stamped in scale
in 1/8" increments for quick measuring
and marking.
Werner ToolLasso™ Bungee System
is integrated into the Holster Top™
keeping tools securely mounted and always within easy reach, with no more
drills falling off the top. Three
ToolLasso™ cords are included with
each JobStation™, and a Multi-use
Hook is located conveniently on the rear
6
rails for hanging tools and buckets. Totally portable JobBuckets, built with
sturdy lug and socket connections are
sold separately for increased storage
space. This handy container slips over
the top of the JobStation™ and locks in
place–increasing overall convenience
for a variety of home projects. And additional ToolLasso™ can be purchased
for use with a convenient belt clip to
keep any tool handy.
Contractor’s JobStation™ is available in both 6' and 8' models. The heavyduty fiberglass ladder has a load capacity of 376 lbs., including user and materials, and all the professional design
features that make Werner the world’s
leading manufacturer and distributor
of ladders. It’s available at fine hardware stores and home improvement
centers around the country from $129
to $169 depending upon the size of the
ladder. For help in locating a dealer
in your area, contact Werner Ladder
Company at 888-523-3370. For more
information on the product, visit
www.wernerladder.com/old blue.
CMYK 448
Egress Window Well Systems Provide
Safety And Peace Of Mind
(HIT)-Family rooms, kids’ playrooms, home offices, bedrooms, and
home theaters are just a few popular
uses for today’s basement living
spaces. With people spending more
time in these areas of the home, safety
is more important than ever before. A
fire can spread throughout a home in
as little as two minutes, so
homeowners must be prepared. In the
event of a life-threatening fire or other
emergency, the basement should have
a failsafe escape route that even children can use on their own.
Egress-style window well systems
provide that surefire exit route and are
now required by law for all new home
construction. They can also be added
to any existing home affordably and
with ease. Wellcraft™ Egress Systems
are the wise choice for homeowners
who value peace of mind and want
greater safety for their family. These
life-saving systems enable adults and
children to escape danger from the
basement quickly, easily, and reliably.
According to the International Residential Code, egress windows and
wells must be installed in each basement-level bedroom as well as in other
basement living spaces.
Each maintenance-free Wellcraft
Egress System features a built-in step
ladder and lightweight well cover that
even a small child can remove from
the inside to get out of the house fast.
These light but sturdy, durable covers
provide an added level of protection,
preventing children and animals from
accidentally falling into the well from
the outside or sustaining injuries. A
closed well cover can hold up to 500
pounds, so stepping across or playing
near one is not a hazard for children.
So easy even a child can use it, a Wellcraft system ensures that
every family member can escape from the basement in the event
of a fire.
Not only do Wellcraft Egress Systems
enhance the safety of any home, they
enhance its attractiveness and fill basement rooms with a natural ambient light
to create a calm, relaxing environment.
Window wells are available in natureinspired Sandstone or Granite Grey colors to accent any interior d cor and
complement any home’s exterior. They
can further beautify the view looking out
from the basement living space when
homeowners nest a small potted plant
or two at the base of the well, outside
the window.
Adding a Wellcraft Egress System
to an existing home is a breeze for professional remodelers and do-it-yourself enthusiasts alike. Remodelers can
easily install any Wellcraft system in a
single day. Window wells are available
as one-piece units or modular units for
stacking to the desired depth without the
need for bracing. A variety of well cover
options are available, including clear
polycarbonate flat and dome covers—
all covers are a snap to attach.
Robustly constructed from polyethylene with UV inhibitors, Wellcraft
Egress Systems offer durable, maintenance-free enjoyment for many
years. They provide exceptional
weather resistance in all climates and
will not rust, dent, or compromise
safety with sharp edges. All Wellcraft
Egress Systems come with a 10-year
warranty against rust, rot, and decay.
Wellcraft Egress Systems is a division of The Tapco Groupª. For more
information,
visit
www.wellcraftwells.com or call 1888-812-9545.
The Wellcraft Egress System complements interior décor and lets
in sunlight, while providing failsafe escape routes from basement
living spaces.
Authentic English Designs Add Charm And
Structural Integrity To Home Conservatories
(HIT)-Patio Enclosures, Inc., the
largest manufacturer and installer of
sunrooms in North America, has announced the addition of “Windsor
Conservatories,” to its latest offering
of premium conservatory sunrooms
featuring authentic English designs
and craftsmanship.
All Windsor Conservatories are designed with fully sculptured conser-
vatory roof systems including decorative cresting and finials that echo the
splendor of Victorian England. Beautiful detailing surrounds an advanced
aluminum core that provides structural
integrity and optimum durability.
ComfortGard® C3 low-e conservatory
glass, the most energy-efficient in the
industry, is standard and keeps occupants comfortable despite outdoor
The Victorian Style Room – with distinctive roof spires
incorporates twenty first century engineering and materials.
weather extremes. Casement windows
have friction hinges that hold their
open positions and have no mechanical parts to wear out. Fully sculptured
double French doors, with a six-point
safety locking system for maximum
security, open to permit large furniture and objects to be moved in or out.
Virtually maintenance-free, these
rooms are built with thermally efficient, pure virgin vinyl frames over
galvanized steel and aluminum to
create a structurally sound room
with a clean, finished look. Retractable conservatory screens are lowered when windows are open to keep
bugs out. Retract them out of the
way when windows are closed for a
clear, unobstructed view.
“Our Windsor Conservatories offer exciting new choices for homeowners interested in sunrooms with
traditional English-style architecture. We couple this look with the
latest innovations in durability, security and energy-efficiency,” stated
Ken Sekley, Patio Enclosures, Inc.
President and CEO. “I invite everyone to visit us online or to contact
one of our conveniently located
branches to view our Windsor Conservatory and all of our sunrooms
designs for themselves.”
CMYK 433
The Edwardian Style Room – opulent, ornate, and yet refined.
Windsor Conservatories are available in Victorian and Edwardian styles
with custom design features like Lantern ceiling detail and a golden oak
interior finish. Other options include
brass handles, window grids and selfcleaning glass.
Windsor Conservatories are covered
by a 20-year warranty on vinyl, glass,
screens and locks. For more information on the Windsor Conservatory or all
of Patio Enclosures, Inc. conservatories,
sunrooms and solariums visit the company at www.patioenclosures.com.
7
CMYK 430
American Energy Systems Inc. Leads The World
In Renewable Energy Heating Appliances
(HIT)-Over 34 years ago American
Energy Systems Inc.; the manufacture
of MagnuM corn, wood pellet, biomass, agri-fuel burning heating appli-
ances, made a commitment to producing only biomass renewable energy
heating appliances. With the inception
of the MagnuM Countryside, Ameri-
can Energy Systems Inc. has been accredited with the first globally UL
tested and certified corn heating appliance.
MagnuM Countryside with Queen Ann Legs
American Energy Systems Inc. is
the only manufacture in the industry
to offer a complete line of true multifuel burning furnaces, fireplace inserts
and free-standing renewable energy
heating appliances.
With the volatile price of imported
fuels and the ever increasing need to
preserve our environment, NOW is the
time to for you to make a commitment
to our future generations. Heating
your home with a MagnuM renewable
energy heating appliance not only will
you save money on your home heating cost, but you will actually be reducing the amount of greenhouse gas
emissions in the air. All MagnuM
heating appliances emit such a minimal amount of particulates that they
are considered emission neutral. Lab
tests have shown only 1.7 grams of
emissions. To discover how much you
could really save by heating your
home with a MagnuM heating appliance, visit www.MagnumHeat.com to
utilize our interactive Fuel Cost Calculator. You will see just how affordable heating with corn really is.
You can purchase your MagnuM
corn, wood pellet, biomass, agrifuel heating appliance from anyone
of our globally Factory Certified
MagnuM Dealerships. To locate a
dealer in your local area visit
www.MagnumHeat.com. You can
also purchase your customized
MagnuM renewable energy heating
appliance through the MagnuM
Online E-commerce Store.
MagnuM 7500 Furnace
American Energy Systems Inc.
began its goal of providing a safe
warm home for its customers in a
small town in South Dakota back
in 1973. The company’s main product line “MAGNUM” and “COUNTRYSIDE” has lived up to its name
reflecting strength, dependability
and safety.
American Energy Systems believes in providing a top line quality product and its company vision
is to make heating our homes and
businesses an affordable, safe, economical and environmentally
friendly way of life.
Tips To Nurture Nature In Your Backyard
(HIT)-Is something bugging you?
More importantly, with summer approaching, is something bugging your
trees? If you don’t know, it’s time to
find out—take a look around your
yard because insects and disease can
seriously harm trees and plants.
“Having trees at home can bring a
touch of nature to any yard, but
homeowners need to know that trees
in urban settings need a little help because they are growing in unnatural
conditions,” said Jim Skiera, Executive Director of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). “A hostile environment and the presence of
insects and disease can seriously harm
trees and plants.”
Trees and other landscape plants
need light, water, and nutrients, but
too much or too little of any of these
resources can cause plant stress. Severe stress can weaken a tree’s resistance to diseases and insects.
Preventing Insects and Disease
Observation is the most important
preventative tool. What should you
look for? Early symptoms of problems usually appear in the spring.
Dying branches in the upper part of
the canopy (called dieback), yellowing, and flagging can be symptoms
of diseases and environmental
stress, while leaf drop or leaf spots
are common symptoms of foliar disease.
8
What should you do if you notice
problems? Take care of the obvious
symptoms first. Trees in overly dry
areas should be watered. Compacted
soil should be nourished with organic mulch to reduce the soil’s bulk
density and to provide slow-release
nutrients to surrounding trees.
Homeowners can also benefit from
plant healthcare plans, where professionals do on-site inspections to ensure tree and plant health. Developing a plant healthcare plan will help
keep track of a tree’s history enabling
more effective preventative care. For
example, if a tree has a history of foliar disease, preventative sprays can
be applied to reduce the chances of
disease recurrence.
Diseases
Tree diseases are caused by infectious or living organisms such as
fungi, viruses, and bacteria. Disorders,
which can exhibit disease-like symptoms, are caused by noninfectious or
nonliving agents such as nutrient deficiencies, temperature extremes, vandalism, or pollutants.
Insects
Often considered a “secondary
problem” to environmental stress, insects can retard plant growth, weaken
tree structure, and spread plant diseases by feeding on trees.
— Chewing insects, like beetles
and caterpillars, eat leaves, flowers,
and twigs. Discoloration and uneven
or broken edges are signs that chewing insects might be present.
— Sucking insects, like aphids and
mealybugs, feed on sap within the
plant. Damage is indicated by the discoloration, drooping, and wilting of
leaves, and the presence of honeydew.
— Boring insects, like bark beetles,
feed beneath the bark of the tree as
larvae. Most borers are attracted to,
and successfully attack, stressed trees
often killing them.
Diseases develop when:
— A pathogen is present (diseasecausing agent).
— A plant is vulnerable to that particular pathogen.
— The environment is conducive to
disease development.
CMYK 481
“Just because you find an insect on
a plant does not mean that’s the one
causing the damage,” said Fred Miller,
Joliet Junior College in Joliet, IL.
While some insects can threaten tree
health, many are helpful and actually
rid trees of dangerous or harmful insects. “For example, many people
think the lady bird beetle is harmful,
but they actually eat aphids, which are
the insects that really harm trees and
plants.”
Diagnosis and Treatment
Correct diagnosis of plant health
problems requires careful examination of the situation. The ISA offers
these tips to aid in your assessment:
— Accurately identify the plant.
Insects and disease are plant-specific, limiting the number of suspected pests.
— Look for a pattern of abnormality. Compare the affected plant
with others on the site, especially
those of the same species.
— Carefully examine the landscape. The history of the property
and the adjacent land may reveal
many problems.
— Examine the roots. Note their
color. Brown or black roots may signal problems.
— Check the trunk and branches.
Wounds in the trunk can provide entrances for pathogens and wood-rotting organisms.
— Note the position and appearance of affected leaves. Dead leaves
at the top of the tree are usually the
result of environmental or mechanical root stress. Twisted or curled
leaves may indicate viral infection,
insect feeding, or exposure to herbicides.
Treatment depends on the particular insect or disease problem, the
species of plant or tree affected, the
extent of the problem, factors specific to the environment, and local
regulations. Homeowners who have
doubts about how to proceed should
consult a certified tree care professional for advice.
For more information on insects and
disease visit www.treesaregood.org.
The International Society of
Arboriculture (ISA), headquartered in Champaign, Ill., is a nonprofit organization supporting
tree care research and education
around the world. To promote the
importance of arboriculture, ISA
manages the consumer education
web site, www.treesaregood.org.
Also, as part of ISA’s dedication
to the care and preservation of
shade and ornamental trees, it offers the only internationally-recognized certification program in
the industry. For more information on ISA and Certified Arborists, visit www.isa-arbor.com.
CMYK 447
Enhance Your Home’s Curb Appeal With
Stylish, Eco-Friendly Roofing
(HIT)-Imagine your home with an
elegant new roof that offers durability and low-maintenance, too. InSpire™
roofing now gives homeowners the opportunity to enjoy long lasting, architecturally distinct roofs on their home.
With the widest range of color options in the industry–seven standard
colors, 11 premium colors and seven
color blends–InSpire roofing makes
it easy for homeowners to express
their eclectic style. And custom
color combinations are available by
consultation for the most discerning
homeowner.
The architectural elegance of this
slate-like roofing product comes
from the patented molding process
that creates varied edges and surfaces for a natural effect, adding a
premium value to homes without the
high cost and difficult maintenance
of authentic slate.
Using technologically advanced
methods and eco-friendly materials,
InSpire roofing is a breeze to maintain and has the appearance of natural slate, but is more durable, thanks
to its 100% blend of virgin resins
and natural limestone. And with either Class A or Class C Fire rating,
Class 4 Hail and 110 MPH wind
uplift rating, it stands up to the
toughest weather.
“The integrity and endurance of this
product dramatically improves the
look of homes while adding to the
long-term value,” said Jonathan
Wierengo, Director of Marketing for
The Tapco Group™. “Our passion with
InSpire was to bring a wide range of
colors to homeowners, including blends
and the opportunity to customize color.
At the same time, we went to great
lengths to make sure this product was
authentic in its appearance with natural edges and meeting the most rigorous of building codes and fire ratings,
such as those in Florida.” Guaranteed
not to lift, cup, warp, break or delaminate, InSpire roofing is backed with a
50-year limited warranty.
To visualize your home with the
natural beauty of InSpire roofing, go
to www.inspireroofing.com. Visit the
site with your family and friends to
pick the right color or color combination for your roof.
InSpire Roofing Products is a division of The Tapco Group and a
U.S. Green Building Council Member. For more information, visit:
www.inspireroofing.com or call
800-971-4148.
Homeowners enjoy distinctive style and durability with InSpire Roofing’s slate-inspired roof tiles,
made of eco-friendly 100% recyclable virgin resins and limestone.
Imagine A World Without Natural Grass
(HIT)-Imagine a world barren of
natural grass; a world where today’s
front lawns and backyards are no more.
Imagine, too, a world where sports
fields, playgrounds and neighborhood
parks are void of any natural grass and
other live, oxygen-producing plants. Now
imagine how such a world would have
altered your memories of childhood and
family get-togethers. Would picnics
have been the same, or walks in the park
or playing catch with dad? When you
think about it, grass has a lot more to do
with your life than you might have
imagined. And it has far more to do with
our memories than we might realize.
As youngsters, didn’t we all at one
time or another experience grass stained
knees at day’s end? And how much did
we discover in our backyards just by
lying on the natural grass and watching
a miniature world of life that was all
around us? Lawns are virtual jungles
teeming with life when viewed at a child’s
level. And who can deny that football,
baseball, softball and soccer played on the
soft lush grass bring back fond memories
and reflections of Americana. Today, we
see many fields being converted to synthetic surfaces. Even home lawns in
some areas are being covered in artificial turf that has all of the comfort and
nostalgia of a living room carpet.
Artificial turf, which was initially
viewed as a necessity in domed sports
stadiums, has become an increasingly
popular ground covering for athletic
fields, including Little League ballparks.
However, with these synthetic fields
come a big price tag. But the price is
often rationalized by the perceived illusion that little or no maintenance is required and the field’s durability and longevity will justify the cost. In reality, if
the money were invested in profession-
ally installed and maintained natural
grass field, it would be as easy in almost every case to provide a perfect
playing surface on a daily basis. And in
all cases, the total cost would be significantly less.
The decision to install synthetic turf
or natural grass often boils down to
“keeping up with the Joneses.” One
school gets an artificial surface and its
rival schools feel they need to do the
same. Putting aside any environmental
concerns or any sense of nostalgia associated with artificial turf, thought
must be given to a variety of other considerations if artificial playing surfaces
continue becoming the ground covering
for lawns across America.
The virtues of natural grass, be it the
environmental benefits, health benefits
or lifestyle benefits are seldom publicized except in scientific journals,
school text books and other credible
sources of factual information. In this
era of environmental awakening and
involvement, it is important that we are
aware natural grass has qualities that
place it at the top of the environmentalfriendly products list, with special emphasis on its significant anti-global
warming benefits. Natural grass is a
natural air conditioner that significantly
lowers outside air temperatures during
hot periods and, of course, that corresponds to lower cost for cooling homes
and businesses. Natural grass can be
seven to 14 degrees Fahrenheit cooler
than concrete and up to 67 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than artificial turf.
In addition to reducing energy costs,
healthy natural grass lawns also reduce
the pollution and waste of resources otherwise needed to create higher levels of
electricity. Few people know that it
takes hundreds of gallons of water to
produce a megawatt of electrical energy,
with the exception of windmills. Have
you ordered your windmill yet?
And since we’re addressing water,
lets consider water quality. Whether the
CMYK 457
issue is ground water or surface water,
healthy natural grass lawns play a major role in keeping it clean. Natural grass
slows run-off from rainwater, allowing
it to soak into the soil so it can recharge
our aquifers and water wells. As the
water moves down through the soil,
grass roots actually extract and brake
down impurities, thereby increasing the
quality of drinking water. In the event of
heavy downpours when all of the water
can not be absorbed into the soil, natural
grass works as an extremely effective soil
erosion control medium to keep our precious topsoil in place while cleaning the
surface waters. No natural plant material works as well as healthy natural
grass lawns at reducing soil erosion.
Much has been discussed lately about
global warming and the increase of carbon in our atmosphere. Carbon offsets
are being promoted and trees are being
planted in an effort by many communities to help store carbon. Few people realize that natural grass is a great carbon
storage device. According to N.A.S.A.,
lawn areas in the United States can store
up to 37 billion pounds of carbon. It has
been theorized that grass consumes up
to five percent of all the carbon that we
create in the United States. By increasing the area of lawns and other natural
grass areas, we can increase this percentage substantially.
Another consideration is the fact
grass provides an environment for many
small invertebrates to thrive. Just watch
the bird activity on a healthy lawn after
a rainfall when insects and worms are
easily removed. These invertebrates
play an important role in our environment, some in breaking down decaying
material and others as pollinators to help
continue the life circle for many plants.
If you want to see the wonder of natural
grass as it relates to nature, just spend
some time watching all the activity that
takes place on grass from dawn to dusk.
There is no denying that as we look
to the future, smarter choices must be
made. We owe it to ourselves to learn
from the mistakes of others. For example, back in the 1960s, The Peoples
Republic of China removed much of the
grass and trees throughout the country
because they were viewed as symbols
of capitalism (western civilization). The
environmental damage resulting from
that decision was extensive, increased
air and noise pollution, dust clouds, pollution of surface water due to increased
run-off, soil erosion, wind spread disease, etc. The decreased vegetation also
led to what is termed as a “heat island”
effect in many areas. A heat island is an
area that has a significantly higher temperature than surrounding areas. We
know today that these heat islands lead
to changes in local climates and will
eventually impact global climates. In
early 2000, the Chinese made an incredible commitment to undertake a major
reforestation of their country in hopes
of undoing the environmental consequences of their past decisions.
The benefits of natural grass seem
unlimited: erosion control, ground water recharge, oxygen generator, heat dissipation, soil restoration, dust prevention, air and water purifier, carbon sequestration, etc. It’s estimated that in
America alone natural grass traps over
12 million tons of dust from our atmosphere every year, and 55 square feet of
turfgrass provides enough oxygen for
one person for each day.
Imagine a world without grass … I
don’t know about you, but I’d rather not.
For more information about natural
grass visit www.thelawninstitute.org.
9
CMYK 440
Crack Free Drywall Corners…Do It Right
Or Do It Over!
Save With A High Performance
Product
Superior performance means cost-effective installation.
Reduces callbacks by minimizing edge cracking.
Five Points To
Ponder When
Selecting A Tile
Backerboard
(HIT)-Homeowners planning
bathroom additions and renovations
will want to consider USG’s unique
f i b e r- r e i n f o r c e d g y p s u m b o a r d ,
FIBEROCK® Brand AQUA-TOUGH™
Tile Backerboard. This a durable panel
offers superior performance and tile
bond–in addition to an integral water
resistant core, and represents a new
era in substrate performance for wet
or dry areas.
Unlike traditional water-resistant
gypsum board, the product derives
both strength and water-resistance
from its uniform composition.
FIBEROCK® Brand AQUA-TOUGH™
Tile Backerboard is made of a uniquely
engineered gypsum/cellulose-fiber
combination that is strong and waterresistance all the way through, and with
no paper face to delaminate maintains
its integrity even when wet.
• Water Resistant – Ideal for use in
wet areas including tub and shower
surrounds.
• Mold Resistant – In independent lab
test per ASTM D3273-00 “Standard
Test Method for Resistance to Growth
of Mold on the Surface of Interior
Coatings in an Environmental Chamber,” Fiberock Tile Backerboard
scored a perfect “10”.
• Finishing Flexibility – Fiberock
Tile Backerboard can be finished
with ceramic tile or painted.
• Environmentally Friendly – Made
from 95% recycled materials.
Awarded Green Cross Certification
from Scientific Certification Systems.
• Abuse Resistant – Engineered to
proved increased resistance to abrasion, indentation and penetration.
Outperforms paper-faced or glass
mat faced panels. Fiberock Tile
Backerboard has no paper face to
tear, scratch or delaminate.
For additional information about controlling moisture and effective product
options, visit the USG Website at
www.usg.com or call 800-USG-4-YOU.
Finishing flexibility, strength, and superior water resistance in a
single panel.
10
CMYK 456
(HIT)-Creating beautiful, problem-free drywall corners enhances
any interior building or remodeling
project, particularly when the clean
straight lines resist edge cracking
and chipping. Smart homebuilders
and remodelers begin by searching
out the right high performance product to avoid the nuisance and expense of repairing and rebuilding
their homes.
Everyday wear and tear and foundation settling sometimes play
havoc with the most carefully applied traditional “bare metal” corner bead. Where the thin metal corner strips have been secured by nails
or screws into the drywall and wood
framing–the wood framing may be-
gin to warp, shrink or swell–creating unsightly cracks as the bead fasteners stress and pull.
The process of fixing corner cracks
once they appear varies according to
the extent of damage, but may require
the inconvenience of removing and
replacing the metal bead before application of multiple coats of joint compound and paint or other finish.
A Simple Solution Worthy Of
Every Homeowner’s
Consideration
SHEETROCK™ Paper Faced metal
bead by USG, is a paper tape covering that ensures excellent adhesion of
joint compounds and comes with a 30year guarantee.
Made with a strong paper tape laminated to a sturdy, rust-resistant metal
form, the SHEETROCK™ Paper
Faced Metal Bead is applied with adhesive to the drywall corner and, as a
result, resists edge cracking, paint
chipping and everyday wear and tear.
This superior performance bead is often favored by builders and contractors because it installs faster and requires less joint compound to finish.
Paper Faced Metal Bead can be applied using a number of different tools
and methods according to the builder’s
preference.
USG’s innovative adhesive drywall
corner application can be readily substituted for the standard, bare metal
corner bead typically used. For additional information including installation instructions, please call 800USG-4YOU (800-874-4968) or visit
www.usg.com/pfbead
Divide And Conquer Spaces
Creatively In Your Home
(HIT)-Doors should do more than
just hang around and sit on their
hinges. They should be dynamic parts
of the home, helping you divide and
conquer interior spaces in creative
ways that enrich your lifestyle. It’s a
tall order for a traditional door. That’s
why multi-pass sliding doors are sliding so naturally into today’s homes.
An appealing, affordable alternative to
traditional doors, multi-pass sliding
doors reshape interiors with bold and
seamless transitions between spaces
that were once contiguous or separated by solid walls.
Multi-pass sliding doors are about
choices, giving you the option to close
off or open up rooms any time for entertaining, quiet retreats, or other purposes. Essentially a multi-panel
“door-in-the-wall,” they require virtually no space and make it easy to transition rooms into more open or cozier
spaces on demand. They are also ideal
where wider doorways are desirable.
For instance, multi-pass sliding doors
offer easy, clear access to two-thirds
of a closet opening because no swingout or fold-out doors block your path.
“Consumers are driving the trend
toward multi-pass sliding doors in remodeled and new homes. They want
flexible ways to divide and change
rooms to match changing lifestyles
and design preferences,” said Stephen
Johnson, Vice President, L.E. Johnson
Products, manufacturer of sliding,
folding, and pocket door hardware for
residential and light commercial applications.
“Homeowners and designers can
use multi-pass sliding door hardware
to customize living spaces and enhance flow. For example, these doors
can function as ‘moving walls’ to divide a finished basement into an entertainment room, office, laundry area,
and child’s playroom—the possibilities are endless.”
Johnson Hardware uniquely packages its innovative Multi-Pass Sliding
Johnson Hardware’s versatile Multi-Pass Sliding Door
Hardware lets consumers and designers divide and conquer
interior spaces by creating “movable walls” anywhere in the home.
Door Hardware so it’s a breeze for
designers and consumers to install
with the doors of their choice, whether
that’s Shoji-style screens to tastefully
section off a bedroom and bathroom,
glass window walls or solid carved
wood panel doors between living and
dining areas, or something even more
extraordinary. With such versatile
products, you can expand or divide
any room and integrate new accents,
enhancing home spaces in personalized ways.
Johnson Hardware’s Multi-Pass
Sliding Door Hardware comes in standard pre-packaged sets of commercial/
residential grade hardware configured
for three-door applications with three
tracks. You can customize multi-pass
CMYK 435
sliding door systems with individual
track lengths and different parts. The
200MD Heavy Duty Hardware holds
doors up to 300 pounds, while 100MD
Medium Duty Hardware holds 200
pounds. The popular 111MD Standard
Duty Hardware handles 150-pound
doors. Extruded aluminum tracks feature convex rails and jump-proof ball
bearing three-wheel hangers for
smooth, secure motion. The convex
track has one point of contact for less
drag and wear-and-tear. Hardware requires a two-foot-wide, 10-foot-long
wall space to house doors.
For more information about Johnson
Hardware’s Multi-Pass Sliding Door
Hardware, call 1-800-837-5664 or visit
www.johnsonhardware.com.
CMYK 437
CMYK 428
Not All Ladders Are
Created Equal …
New Time-Saving Device
For ‘Do-It-Yourselfers’
Promotes Family Leisure
The versatile MT Series Telescoping
Multiladder
(HIT)-For those certain home improvement
projects when two ladders are better, faster, or
sturdier than one, or perhaps one leg of the job
is simply higher than the other—Werner Ladder
has a range of perfect solutions. The MT Series
Telescoping Multiladder effortlessly switches
from one task to the next with just a push of the
soft-touch push knob.
You can use the Multiladder as a stepladder of various heights, a twin stepladder for
two people, a stairway stepladder with adjustable front and rear heights, an extension ladder, and it even separates to create two scaffold bases.
The ladders are easy to adjust and feature
spring loaded ‘J’ locks that emit an audible
‘click’ as an indication of safety.
Available in four sizes, the Telescoping
Multiladder series reflects the same professional
design quality that has made Werner a household name for decades. The 13' model has 13
working heights or positions, the 17' model has
20 working heights, and the 26' model can be
adjusted to 37 different working heights or
positions.
Features like smooth curved rails for comfortable climbing, double riveted steps for
long lasting durability and extra wide flared
base for firm support and stability reflect
Werner’s long commitment to the design and
manufacture of products that meet or exceed
the applicable Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA) and American National Standards Institute (ANSI) codes and
standards for strength and structural integrity.
Telescoping Multiladders are currently
available at fine hardware and home stores,
or you can contact Werner Ladder Company
at 888-523-3370 for additional information on
a dealer in your area. Online go to http://
wernerladder.com
Werner’s Telescoping Multiladder gives
new meaning to the popular notion of
multi-tasking. It’s a stepladder, an
adjustable height stairladder, or an
extension ladder, and it can be separated
to create two scaffold bases for a host of
hard-to- reach projects.
(HIT)-Don’t be stuck with
time consuming household
projects. Inside and outside
home repairs can be finished efficiently every time with the
right power tool in hand. A patented new concept for power
drills lets the operator switch
from drill bit to fastening bit …
and back and forth … faster than
ever before. The product which
was recently introduced by the
Lyropa Tool Corporation in
Eddystone, Pennsylvania, features an innovative Twist-Lok™
Drill and Drive System
(www.twist-lok.com). Also,
Twist-Lok is the only drill and
drive system that allows for the
use of common, inexpensive
round drill bits plus it can use
hex shank drill bits and countersinks. You can save time and
money with a single great idea,
finish your project, and still be
there for important family activities.
Construction tasks–from
framing to finishing–can be
quickly completed and perfectly
finished with the Twist-Lok Drill
and Drive System which is ideal
for both the professional craftsman and the do-it-yourselfer.
This tool would make a great addition to any toolbox. Therefore
a wonderful GIFT.
Never Having To Remove
The Drill Bit
Twist-Lok is a snap to use.
Simply drill the first pilot hole,
slide the Twist-Lok driver over
the drill bit–automatically at-
Time saving tools like Lyropa Tool Corporation’s
Twist-Lok™ Drill and Drive system get the job done
and still leave time for other important home activities.
taching it to the quick connect
chuck. Next drive the screw easily into your workpiece. And finally, to go back to drilling
mode, simply twist and pull. The
Twist-Lok will automatically detach. Never having to remove the
drill bit from the drill revolutionizes the drill’s use. The TwistLok™ Drill and Drive System
works with any drill that has a 3/
8" or 1/2" chuck capacity including brand name drills like
Makita, DEWALT, Porter-Cable,
Milwaukee, Craftsman, Rigid,
and Bosch. You can view a video
demo showing the product in
action by scrolling down on the
website’s home page http://
www.twist-lok.com Lyropa Tool
Corporation is currently producing four different Twist-Lok sets.
Additional adapters and sets will
be added later this year. TwistLok sets are available online and
from select hardware retailers.
For a brochure or to place an
order, please visit www.twistlok.com, or call 800-924-0344 or
email [email protected]
Antimicrobial Effectiveness Of Copper Metals–
A Timely Study For Builders And Remodelers
U. S. Dept. of Defense Continues
Study of Copper as Effective
Means of Reducing HospitalAcquired Infection and
Improving Indoor Air Quality
(HIT)-Two studies funded by congressionally appropriated funds will
continue clinical trials by the Copper
Development Association, to determine
the antimicrobial effectiveness of copper, brass and bronze on reducing hospital-acquired infections and improving
air quality.
The first study, according to CDA
President Andrew G. Kireta Sr., is focused on the ability of copper alloy surfaces to kill deadly pathogens and impede cross-contamination. The monies
will be used to complete the pilot conversion of touch surfaces in healthcare
facilities in New York City and Charleston, South Carolina, where extensive
clinical trials have begun. The other,
which follows the same premise, is designed to demonstrate the effectiveness
of copper components in heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC)
systems in reducing the incidence of
harmful microbes that spread throughout buildings and other indoor air environments.
Since these studies began, the increasing concern over microbial growth on
common touch surfaces has moved beyond healthcare facilities and into the
community. In fact, recent cases have
been diagnosed in students at many
schools across the country.
According to Harold Michels, PhD.,
P.E., Vice President of Technology and
Technical Services for CDA and the
studies’ principal investigator, “This
critical phase of study is expected to
demonstrate that the utilization of antimicrobial copper alloy surfaces will be
an effective weapon in the battle against
hospital- and community-acquired infections and, when used in conjunction
with good clinical hygiene, will help
greatly to reduce the spread of certain
virulent, antibiotic-resistant pathogens,
such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and E. coli
O157:H7.”
The touch surface trials follow peerreviewed research conducted at the University of Southampton in the U.K.
proving copper, brass and bronze can
quickly and efficiently eradicate several
different pathogens, and will determine
how well natural copper, brass and
bronze surfaces mitigate infectious microbes, decrease cross-contamination
and ultimately help reduce infections in
hospitalized patients.
The companion study compares copper air-conditioning system components, including heat exchangers and
drip pans, with components made of
aluminum as to their ability to control the growth of harmful bacteria
and fungi.
Additional information can be
found on the association website at
www.copper.org.
CMYK 476
The Copper Development Association is the information,
education, market and technical development arm of the copper,
brass and bronze industries in the USA.
11
CMYK 441
CMYK 451
Create Character With The
Crowning Touch Of
Hardwood Mouldings
(HIT)-Looking for a way to add
sparkle and impact to a modest home?
Some experts suggest a fresh coat of
paint, while others recommend a new
floor. Unfortunately, even a change of
color or flooring won’t make a yawninducing interior come to life. To create
character and distinction in an ordinary
room, consider adding some structural
detail with solid hardwood mouldings
and trim.
Hardwood mouldings lend star
quality to any room. By creating contours and contrast, bold lines and fine
detailing, moulding and millwork lend
substance and distinction to an otherwise-ordinary room, adding the architectural punch that many modern
homes are lacking. The American
Hardwood Information Center
(www.hardwoodinfo.com) can be a
homeowner’s first stop for moulding
profiles, installation techniques and
examples of interiors that have been
transformed by mouldings milled
from genuine American hardwoods.
Years ago, architects and homebuilders used substantial architectural
ornamentation to make a home unique
and to reflect the wealth and taste of
its owners. Crown mouldings, wainscoting, chair rails, wall and window
framing made from hardwoods lent
substance, character and beauty to a
home’s interior. By contrast, today’s
cost-effective building practices have
left little room for this kind of distinction in modern homes, says master
carpenter Matt Garnett.
Over the past ten years, there has been
a housing boom in the area,” says
Garnett, a design consultant for Just
Mouldings, a D.C.-area firm that specializes in custom designed architectural
moulding. “Speed and efficiency in
building have streamlined the choices a
homeowner had in its design. Most
homes have only very simple, basic
mouldings, with no way to upgrade.”
“A single application of crown
moulding,” notes Garnett, “yields aston-
Closet Storage
Above The Fray
(HIT)-Organizing the upper limits of
a family home can be a challenge for
millions of owners who have discovered
that they have only a small attic opening hidden away in a bedroom or closet.
Werner Ladder has a telescoping ladder for safe and convenient access to
areas that do not fit traditional small attic ladders. It’s easy to install and lets
you put “unseasonable” clothes, decorations, carpet remnants, and even those
outdated income tax receipts “up there”
with the “must save” computer boxes
until they are needed.
The sturdy lightweight aluminum
Televator™ goes where other attic ladders can’t, fits any 22" x 22" or larger
opening, and folds compactly into the
ceiling when not in use. It is available
in 8' (AA08) and 10' (AA10) models
which adjust to ceiling height, eliminating the need to cut the non-marring legs
to proper height.
TheTelevator™ telescoping ladder
has a 250 lb. combined load capacity
(weight of user and materials), and reflects the same professional design quality that has made Werner a household
name for decades. Slip resistant steps
are an important feature as well as eliminating the need to drag a ladder through
the house to access these hard to reach
areas.
Hardware and assembly instructions
for access doors are included in convenient packaging with a carrying handle
and a pole to lower the spring-assisted
ladder. The 8' model weights only 36 lbs.
Homeowners additionally find the
Televator™ is worth its weight in convenience whenever there is an access
need for heating and cooling repairs.
The telescoping ladder is currently
available at fine hardware stores and
home improvement centers around the
country. For help finding a dealer in your
area, contact Werner Ladder Company
at 888-525-3370. For more information
about the Televator™, visit
www.wernerladder.com/televator.
Photo courtesy of White River Hardwoods
ishing results. It softens the transition
between ceiling and wall, and sets the
tone for more of an elegant feel in the
room. It works well in all kinds of
homes, from multi-million dollar homes
to a three-bedroom townhouse.”
Installing hardwood crown mouldings in an average room can cost an additional $300 to $500, depending on the
wood. But when considering resale
value, says Garnett, “the extra measure
of character and elegance in a welltrimmed home is a real advantage in a
competitive market.”
Go Wide
If you want impressive results with
your moulding, here’s a suggestion: Go
wide. Once you decide to add baseboard
or crown moulding to a room, make sure
it’s not so narrow that it disappears into
a corner. “Three to four-inch tall baseboard might not catch anyone’s eye, but
moving up to a six-or eight-inch size will
bring on a WOW!” says remodeling expert and syndicated columnist Bill LaHay.
It’s not just the mouldings and trim,
but how you design and use it that can
bring costs down to size. Layering small
crown and decorative mouldings onto a
flat board can be an impressive alternative to a single, wide crown moulding.
“If the goal is more texture, depth and
accents for your walls, using multiple
smaller mouldings can be the better
route – if they’re combined well,” suggests LaHay. Or think beyond crown
and baseboard mouldings to door and
window casings, chair rails, picture rails
and wainscoting to add instant stature
and definition.
For a wealth of ideas on choosing and
using hardwood mouldings, millwork
and trim, and other ways to add the elegance and durability of hardwoods to
your home, visit the American Hardwood Information Center at
www.hardwoodinfo.com.
Selecting The Right Standby Generator
Sizing And Code Requirements
(HIT)-If you are considering a backup
generator purchase, there are important
sizing and code requirements that you
need to know to insure a safe and adequate standby generator installation.
Sizing the generator takes into account
the total kilowatt (kW) requirements of
the electrical equipment to be served.
Undersizing can leave you frustrated
while oversizing is just a waste of money.
Consider Any Motor Loads
Pay particular attention to anything
with an electric motor. Starting a motor
requires three to seven times the current
used during normal operation. Allowing
for this startup or inrush of current when
sizing the generator is crucial.
Use A Double-Throw Switch
Electrical connections to the wiring
system of the home, farm, or business
12
require a double-throw transfer switch.
This is not a do-it-yourself project! Involve an experienced electrical contractor to insure a safe, reliable installation
that meets all local and national code requirements. Another safety consideration is where the generator is placed.
Unless you vent the generator fumes to
the outside, never locate it inside a building, garage or basement.
Helpful Publication
A new publication is now available
that contains a wealth of information
about standby generators. Called “Sizing and Selecting Your Standby Generator,” this 20-page illustrated guide
helps homeowners, farmers and small
business owners correctly size and
safely install standby generators. It explains the various types of generators
available, such as engine or tractor
driven, portable or permanently an-
chored units. Three examples are provided to illustrate proper matching of
the electrical capacity to the particular load requirements. One section is
devoted to the need for a double-throw
transfer switch. Also the names, locations, and phone numbers of 32 major
generator suppliers are included to assist readers with the selection process.
To purchase the booklet, call the National Food and Energy Council (NFEC)
at 937-383-0001 or fax 937-383- 0003,
mentioning “Sizing and Selecting Your
Standby Generator.” The price is $9.75
(includes shipping and handling). Learn
more about this, and other electrical topics at http://www.nfec.org.
The NFEC is an association of nearly 200 electric companies, cooperatives and public power districts.
Originally formed to help utilities with their agricultural customers, NFEC has recently expanded its scope to provide technical support
and assistance to help power suppliers with their rural businesses and commercial key accounts. Specific topics include motor efficiency,
security lighting for businesses, standby generator sizing and distributed generation sources, key accounts programs, wiring or grounding
upgrades for power quality, and new options for serving three-phase loads with single-phase service.
458
CMYK 445
CMYK 443
First Line Of Defense Save Money And Save
For Household Fires Your Mirrors…
(HIT)-First Control™–a new
chemical and water fire suppressant delivery system developed
and distributed by the Millennium International Development
Corporation–provides ready help
with small fires before they become large and destructive. The
compact (patent pending) unit
provides an excellent first line of
defense against kitchen, laundry
or garage fires before they become emergencies. And if you
have ever turned on a garden
hose, you are ready to use this
handy unit which connects to
any existing plumbing system to
restrain fires up to 50 feet away.
Second counts in a fire emergency. For effective use on
wood, paper and fabric fires that
would be classified as light hazard, homeowners/homemakers
who are not comfortable with
traditional fire extinguishers
may elect this simple easily accessed alternative.
The unique fire suppressant
lasts long after chemical agents
from fire extinguishers have
been expelled. Connected to a
reliable water supply line and
1/4 turn valve, the 50 ft. coiled
hose will provide an unlimited
supply of water to help extinguish the fire.
First Control™ units measure 13.5" W x 19" H x 4.5" D,
can be mounted or recessed
into walls, and are ideally located in laundry and utility
rooms, island type kitchens and
in hallways outside bathrooms.
Visit www.firstfirecontrol.com
for additional information or
call 800-757-2990.
Storage On Top Of
Your Tub Or Shower
Enclosure
Creative New Idea For
Your Bathroom
(HIT)-If you’ve ever been
frustrated by cluttered and inadequate space for essential shampoos, soaps, cosmetics and tissues in the bathroom, Shower
Bridge™ is an innovative new
option worth looking into.
This easily applied “do-ityourself” product, MirrEdge™,
can conceal deteriorating mirror
edges and transform unsightly
mirrors into fashionable furnishings. Using only a razor knife
and a measuring tape, the transformation is made without ever
moving the mirror from the wall.
Adding to the four woodgrain
finishes: Deep Cherry Walnut,
Elegant Royal Oak, Easy Driftwood, Light Regal Birch, and
Mirror Acrylic. The newly available Dove White Finished Polymer Strips and Corner Plates provide a full range of choices when
decorating your bathroom, bedroom or other worn mirrors.
It’s that simple:
FLO n STOP™ when activated, will prevent water damage from leaks and floods
from sources such as broken
pipes, burst hoses, overflowing toilets and leaks from
dishwasher lines.
How it works:
CMYK 444
currently available through major Home Improvement Centers
or you can view the complete
line at www.mirredge.com. For
further information call 800757-2990.
By popular demand, the Dove White MirrEdge™
mirror system finish has been added to other available
Woodgrain finishes: Cherry Walnut, Royal Oak,
Regal Birch and Driftwood, along with the original
Clear Mirror Acrylic finish to spruce up worn mirrors
in every room of the house.
Protect Your Home
From Water Damage
And Mold
(HIT)-A new Wireless Remote Controlled Water System developed by Millennium
International Development
Corporation can prevent damage to property, and can save
homeowners water and
money. The patented FLO n
STOP™ system is easy to use
... just touch the OFF button
at your front door when leaving home and water pressure
to all plumbing fixtures will
be SHUT OFF. Upon returning, push the ON button, and
all water will be restored.
Millennium International Development Corporation is a U.S. based
company specializing in products with practical home improvement
applications. Headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida, Millennium has
successfully manufactured innovative home products for the past seven
years and has distribution nationally and internationally.
MirrEdge™ is available 1-1/
2" wide strips x 36" and 60"
lengths which are joined with
“decorative” or “contemporary”
corner plates to make installation
quick and easy. Selections are
The MirrEdge System
US Patented Wireless
Remote Controlled Water
Security System
Easy to Reach Storage
from Inside or Outside
the Shower
Millennium International
Development Corporation has
taken convenience to a whole
new level with a sturdy PVC
storage unit that resists water
and is securely hooked onto the
header of the sliding shower
door enclosure. Only a Phillips
screwdriver is needed for installation.
The Shower Bridge™ is the
most affordable way to add
space and décor to a bathroom
without remodeling. With two
sliding doors on each side of the
storage cabinet, access is available from both the bathroom side
and inside the shower. The
added space keeps your bathroom amenities hidden until
you need them.
The innovative (patent pending), product is available now
from HSN Improvements, or
you can visit the website at
www.showerbridge.com. For
(HIT)-From the originators of
the popular mirror enhancement
system, MirrEdge™, comes a
fresh new Dove White version
just in time for Spring fixup. An
innovative and economical
means of preserving worn mirrors, the MirrEdge™ system was
developed by Florida manufacturer and distributor, Millennium
Development Corporation for
homeowners who look for looking for cost effective and environmentally effective solutions.
A Wireless Transmitter ON/
OFF switch at the entry door
wirelessly signals the Transceiver switch that is connected to the Solenoid Valve.
This valve turns the water
ON/OFF at the main water
line.
FLO n STOP™ provides a
convenient way to easily turn
ON/OFF the main water supply line when leaving home.
Turning off the main water
supply line in the dwelling
will prevent uncontrollable
water damage from bursting
hoses or ruptured pipes while
the home is unoccupied.
The Company also developed the “24/7 Water Sentinel” that can be placed on the
floor at every location where
a water fixture is installed.
The “24/7 Water Sentinel”
senses the presence of water
and immediately transmits a
wireless signal that SHUTSOFF the main water supply to
the dwelling, day or night.
Designed for single homes
the unit can be programmed
for multi-family and condominiums with over 250 units
in a single building to assure
that each dwelling has its own
exclusive unit code.
Visit the company website
at www.flo-n-stop.com. For
CMYK 455
ON/OFF Button Pad
applied to wall adjacent
to entry door.
Floor applied
13
CMYK 431
CMYK 454
Laminate Flooring Made Patio Furniture
In Italy–High Design,
Shows Its True
High Quality
Colors
(HIT)-Laminate floors aren’t all
manufactured in Sweden or the US for
that matter. ABET LAMINATI flooring, produced in northern Italy–just
minutes from Milan, the fashion capital of the world–offers a variety of
high design, high quality laminate
floors. The 120 options include a wide
range of choices from exotic woods
such as Wenge, Olive and Zebrawood,
to spectacular solid color planks.
ABET’S Vintage line showcases rustic-like woods including aged Pine
and Oak in oversized planks of almost
six feet in length. These larger plank
sizes inspire an “old world” look. Another design option is the raised texture in the Microline collection, which
adds dimension to Douglas fir, Bamboo and Wenge wood-like patterns.
Design, when paired with nature,
creates interesting results. The Fi-
ber collection, made with jute fibers
from recycled coffee bean sacks,
will inadvertently have a coffee
bean ground into its texture for an
added perk. And natural veneers in
a high pressure laminate format
combine the beauty of real wood,
with the durability of a laminate
floor in the Parqwood line.
ABET LAMINATI flooring is
perfect for lifestyles that
demand durability
Usually residences with young
children, large pets or a beach environment appreciate the durability of
this laminate floor. It is resistant to
scratches from chair wheels, foot
traffic, pet claws, and scuff marks.
It is also resistant to fire, acids and
fading and has a lifetime residential
warranty. When a homeowner seeks
products with high quality, commercial durability and high design they
generally choose ABET LAMINATI.
Unfortunately for the consumer, this
flooring is rarely available through a
local retailer. Due to the market position and pricing, beginning at approximately $8.50 per square foot installed,
residential clients usually find Abet’s
flooring through a professional designer. However, the laminate floor
can be purchased directly from ABET,
Inc. in the US, for under $6.00 per
square foot including delivery.
Installation is easy
Thanks to a tongue and groove joint
that is simple but mechanically sound,
Abet’s laminate floors can be float-fitted over an existing floor without requiring long hours of work. Plank
size is approximately 7-1/2 inches
x 48 inches.
When you need easy-to-clean durabilitiy, ABET LAMINATI has
the right laminate floor for the job. Hard to find products with
commercial durability and high design are available directly from
ABET, Inc.
Care for laminate flooring
(HIT)-Wood is a wonderful, versatile material that makes beautiful
indoor and patio furniture. It can be
left unfinished, or coated with a
clear sealer, to complement any
d cor, or stained, painted, distressed,
or antiqued, to accent specific color
schemes and motifs.
If you’re thinking about repainting a piece, and are dreading the
process of stripping it, you’ll be relieved to know that you normally
don’t have to strip furniture before
you paint it. The important thing is
to prepare it correctly, so that the
paint will adhere properly, and dry
to a radiant enamel finish. Besides
making sure that the surface is clean
and dry, you will have to dull any
glossy paint that is already on it. If
it was painted in the past couple of
decades, you can do this by sanding
it; but if the paint was put on before
the early 80’s, it may contain lead,
and should be treated with a liquid
de-glosser.
Always work in a well-ventilated
area, and wear a dust mask when
you’re sanding, and a respirator
when you’re painting. Before you
begin painting, make sure that there
is no dust left over from sanding, or
from anywhere else, or it could ruin
your paint job. An alkyd enamel
paint will give the furniture a wet
look, while a latex will create a satiny appearance. Two coats of either
type will give you good results, but
three will provide maximum shine
and durability. For an ultra-smooth
finish, prime the piece with two layers of enamel undercoat first.
Another way to ensure a spectacular finish, is to use an alkyd paint
with an oil base and an extended
drying time of approximately two
days. A paint additive will increase
penetration and drying time. To help
the paint to flow more freely, strain
it, even if it’s fresh, and thin it by
as much as ten per cent. Apply it in
thin coats, with a natural-bristle
brush, to help to minimize brush
marks, which also interfere with a
flawless finish.
Whenever you can, have the surface that you’re painting lying horizontally. Make your strokes across
the grain first, then, very lightly,
with the tip of the brush, go along
the entire length of the grain. After
each coat dries, sand it with fine
paper, and wipe it with a tack cloth.
A project such as this requires
time and patience, but it’s worth it,
as you will be rewarded with stunning furniture that looks as good as
new. However, if you don’t want to
put up with the mess, the fumes, and
the sawdust, go to CedarStore.com,
where a few clicks of your mouse
can bring you the most gorgeous
patio furniture you’ve ever seen.
CedarStore.com has a huge selection of hand-crafted, decay-resistant
cedar, pine, oak, cherry, and teak,
as well as aluminum, polywood,
synthetic wicker, and vinyl furniture
that’s maintenance-free and nearly
indestructible. Furthermore, you can
get most of the metal and synthetic,
as well as much of the wood furniture, in dozens of bright, stylish colors, without even lifting a brush.
To browse the entire collection, visit
CedarStore.com. To contact a design
consultant or customer service representative, call 888-293-2339, or email [email protected].
One of the greatest reasons for purchasing a laminate floor is its lack of
maintenance and its ability to look
new for many years. Just like cleaning a laminate kitchen counter top,
ammonia and water or vinegar and
water work well. Window cleaners are
perfect for spot cleaning. Since laminate floors absorb nothing, using
soaps that leave a wax residue such
as wood soap or vinyl cleaners will
only create a haze on the surface. A
slightly damp mop will remove dust.
For samples or more information log
onto the ABET LAMINATI web site
@ www.abetlaminati.com or call 800228-2238.
ABET Incorporated offers a wide
variety of surfacing solutions including: Decorative Surfaces, Floors,
Walls, Exterior Cladding, Countertops, Self Supporting Panels, Custom/
Digital Images and Green products.
ABET offers over 200 solid colors
of high pressure laminate–the largest
standard collection in the world–as
well as Parqcolor Gold, the “woodlooking” high pressure laminate floor,
available in over 50 finishes with the
colors and grains of almost every type
of wood, and Parqwood, ABET’s first
real wood veneer flooring product.
14
by Kathy Moran
If your outdoor furniture is lacking luster, CedarStore.com
has a selection of hand-crafted, decay-resistant cedar, pine,
oak, cherry, and teak, as well as aluminum, polywood,
synthetic wicker, and vinyl furniture that’s maintenancefree and nearly indestructible.
CMYK 453
Now You Don’t Have To Be A Pro To Lay Real
Glass Block In Four Easy Steps
(HIT)–Homeowners who would like
to install a luxury shower enclosure need
no longer think twice about tackling this
once-complex project. Two recent de-
velopments in building products make
adding a real glass block shower enclosure a true do-it-yourself project. And
the results can look as professional as if
1
2
3
4
Pre-assembled glass block panels simplify shower wall
consruction. 1. Set pre-assembled EZ grout Panel. 2. Stack
remaining panels according to Easy-to-follow instructions. 3.
Apply supplied EZ grout to joints. 4. Wipe down with wet
sponge.
you had hired a masonry contractor at
considerably more expense.
Just like pre-built glass block windows that require no mortar or masonry skills, now you order pre-assembled glass block panels, shipped
to your jobsite or home. The panels
can be attached to each other with
strong, durable silicone adhesive.
Then the glass block joints are finished by applying EazyGrout polymer
hydraulic grout with BioBlock antimicrobial protection (included with the
system). The system is easy to use,
working with any standard glass
blocks for curved or straight walls,
that you specify with your order
through Stark Glass Block
An attractive, durable modular curb
system called Curbstile can easily
form the base for your D.I.Y. shower
stall project, with no special tools required. Also available through Stark
Glass Block, these curb components
are designed to fit with all glass
blocks. Made from a solid, cast polymer surface material often used in
countertops, the curb system will also
work with framed and framless flat
glass enclosures. Its nonporous surface resists bacteria and mold. For
step-by-step installation details on both
pre-formed, mortarless glass block panels, and modular shower curb sections,
visit the Stark Glass Block website:
www.starkglassblock.com.
Prefinished shower curb sections replicate the look of marble,
granite, or onyx.
Eco-Friendly 100% Bamboo Kitchen Cabinets &
Vanities: A Green And Durable Choice For Homes
standard and for added stability I-Beam construction is on all base
cabinetry rather than corner blocks. There is not particle board used
anywhere in the construction. Each cabinet piece is shipped complete in the box, ready to assemble.
(HIT)-Mr. Bamboo, Inc., has introduced a line of 100% bamboo
kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities for today’s environmentally
and quality conscious homeowners. Available in sophisticated natural and coffee color throughout, Simply Green Bamboo Cabinets
combine Euro styling and eco-friendly materials for a warm look
and exceptional durability. These modular cabinets and vanities will
provide years of use and beauty.
Mr. Bamboo cabinets are quality made with modern
construction and details:
• Door, end panels and face frames are 3/4" solid bamboo plywood
• Base cabinets include I-beam construction to provide additional
stability and secure countertop attachment
• Shelves are 3/4" thick and edgebanded with 1/8" bamboo
• Easy close, soft close drawers with concealed under-mount drawer
slides
• Concealed European hinges with 110 degree opening feature multiple adjustments and “quick release” for easy door removal
• Drawers are 5/8" solid bamboo with four-sided dovetail construction with 1/4" bamboo bottom for durability and full extension
• Roll-out trays have high back to prevent items from falling in
back and are full extension
• 100% super sized bamboo lazy susan makes the corner space
very organized, comes with 3/4" bamboo shelf
• Tall pantry pullout is also available for storing cans and dry goods
• Recycle and trash wastebaskets pull out for convenience
• Tilt-out tray mounted under the sink is stainless steel and is great
for storage
A complete line of cabinets is available in standard widths, heights
and door sizes which are easily installed in kitchen and bath remodels or new constructions. Each unit is sealed on all sides during
production adding to its stability and further insuring minimal reaction to changes in ambient humidity.
Mr. Bamboo, Inc. is a manufacturer bamboo cabinets, flooring
and stairs. For additional information please contact Mr. Bamboo
showroom at 55 Kelly Street, Elk Grove, IL 60007 or visit
www.mrbamboocabinets.com. You may also contact the firm at 888MRBAMBU or via email [email protected].
Bamboo is the Green Choice for Homes
Bamboo is a renewable resource that can be utilized like wood
but is classified as a grass and is much stronger than hardwoods.
Unlike typical trees, bamboo takes much less time to grow and this
makes it environmentally friendly. There are hundreds of bamboo
species that grow almost everywhere in the world. Mr. Bamboo harvests the larger bamboo species called “Moso” in an area where it
grows and regenerates naturally.
The maturation period for bamboo is only five to six years, while
trees need decades to reach maturity. Using bamboo contributes to
the preservation of our forests. Furthermore, an acre of bamboo produces more flooring than an acre of hardwood. This is possible as a
minimal amount of natural product is wasted while producing bamboo cabinets. Mr. Bamboo offers bamboo cabinets in two colors:
amber-coffee, or a natural-blond color; these come with a vertical or
horizontal grain. The coffee color is the carbonated fiber color after
high-temperature and high-pressure treatment. It is not a painted-on
color, so it will never fade away. The light color is not heated or
high pressured and is actually 10% stronger.
Bamboo is Stronger than Hardwood
Bamboo is a design alternative to hardwood because it is a very
stable material for cabinets. It absorbs less moisture and does not
shrink or swell as much as other hardwood material. Solid engineering, design and construction guarantee the lifetime performance of
the Mr. Bamboo cabinets and vanities. Only a screw driver is needed
to complete the assembly (cam lock assembly method). For example, 3/4" solid wood drawers with dovetail construction come
CMYK 467
15
CMYK 460
Add Value To Your Home With A
Backyard Water Feature
“Landscaping and the appearance of your yard is a critical point to making your home
stand out in today’s market,”
said Mark Munley, vice president of sales and marketing for
Firestone Specialty Products.
“You don’t have to be discouraged by today’s high remodeling costs because something
simple, such as installing a
backyard water feature, is easy,
cost efficient, and can provide
you with a higher resale value.”
Building a Water Feature
(HIT)–As the housing market slump continues, homeowners are looking for ways
to make their homes stand out
and increase resale value
without spending their life
savings. According to a survey of 5,000 U.S. home owners by Remodelestimates.com,
the interest in remodeling remains high for homeowners
though they are more conservative about costs in light of declining home prices.
With so many options available for the do-it-yourself
(DIY) homeowner, it can be
confusing to know where to
start. Homeowners should consider the following questions:
What remodeling project will
give you the most value impact
for prospective buyers? What is
the price range for remodeling
and addition projects?
According to Remodeling
Magazine’s “Cost vs. Value Report 2007,” the national midrange average for a deck addition was more than $10,300; a
mid-range kitchen remodel
(major) was more than
$55,500; and a sun room addition was nearly $70,000.
A much less expensive alternative is to add a water feature
to enhance your backyard landscape. Water features not only
add aesthetics to a yard and home
but also provide a calming, serene and eco-friendly environment that everyone can enjoy.
It is easy to become discouraged with many home improvement projects because of the
complicated installation processes. Water features, on the
other hand, range in size and
complexity from the novice all
the way up to the DIY expert.
The most important factor is
to decide what size and shape
water feature is appropriate for
your backyard. A commonly
used style is the smaller kidney-shaped water feature because it is easy to install and
can fit in even the smallest
backyards.
Although the average water
feature measures about 11x16
feet, sizes and shapes may vary.
Also consider other factors, including if the water feature will
accompany other objects in
your backyard such as a pool
or deck.
Begin your water feature installation by determining the
perimeter and creating an outline. After digging your hole,
add a geotextile mat large
enough to cover the base of the
hole and walls. The geotextile
mat is important because it acts
as extra protection for the liner,
helping to prevent punctures.
Choosing and Installing the
Liner
There are many liner options
available to choose from, but the
most popular and trusted option
for water feature installations is
EPDM rubber liners.
“Firestone Specialty Products
manufacturers PondGard liners,
which provide outstanding durability and flexibility, and can be
shaped to fit the unique contours
of any water feature,” said
Munley. “PondGard is also an
eco-friendly option for those
looking to include plant and
aquatic life in water feature design because it resists algae
growth and microbial attack.”
Available in a variety of sizes,
PondGard provides you with
peace of mind because it requires
minimal maintenance once installed and it is extremely resistant to ultraviolet (UV) radiation
and ozone, even when exposed.
To install the liner, gently
place it in the hole and fill with
water to hold it in place. Next,
use rocks and stones on the floor
of the water feature and begin
building layers along the walls.
Add the stones and rocks on
top of the exposed liner and continue to stack. Using a range of
stones from your local nursery,
masonry supplier or even your
own yard will help add character to the water feature. Be sure
to use different size stones and
ground-covers on the perimeter
of the pond to avoid a harsh transition from the water feature to
the landscape.
To take this design even further, you can add a small waterfall by adding a pump, hose and
additional rock formations to the
equation. If you are considering
this addition, be sure to contact
your local electrician to ensure
a safe and proper installation.
Other “finishing touch” options to consider are plants and
aquatic life. Many water feature
enthusiasts include Koi fish and
other tropical water life to enhance the aesthetics. Visit your
local nursery and aquatic center
to find out which options work
best for your water feature.
Sit Back and Enjoy
Imagine the sound of calm,
flowing water and swimming
fish–right in your backyard. Easy
to install backyard water features
create a scenic and aesthetically
pleasing mini eco-system that
can be enjoyed by all. Adding
this unique feature to your home
will give you an edge over your
competition in the housing market, and who knows, you may
not want to leave after seeing
how much a water feature enhances your home.
For more information about
Firestone PondGard and to find
your local distributor, please visit our
Web site at www.firestonesp.com.
Light And Lively Home Accents
Make Decorating Fun And Easy
Big Murals by Wallies®
(HIT)–From “Rainbows” to
“Whimsical Whales” and 5ft. Palm Trees, homemakers
looking for an easy way to
brighten a room or add dimension to a decorative
theme can now choose from
a line of Big Mural designs by
Wallies ® .
Where bigger is a better fit,
this premier mural and cutout
producer, has a winning product–and as a division of McCall
Pattern Company, the nation’s
leading sewing and craft pattern manufacturer and distributor–a winning reputation
The company offers new selections like the “Girly Head-board”
featured here, or the sophisti16
cated “Old World Map”, a conversation starter in any setting.
Also included among the
broad lines are a variety of favorite animals, flora, fauna
and fish, sports and space vehicles, and there is even an
“Unicorn” for the ultra imaginative room planner.
Size, Shape and More
Size is only one feature of
these high-quality, prepasted,
vinyl-coated paper murals—
adding a stunning element of
“wow”. Each mural contains
two or three 28" x 40" sheets
of die cut pieces, making the
product application quick and
uncomplicated. Some Big
Murals piece together to form
CMYK 461
one large image and others
are individual pieces that invite you to create your own
unique display.
Like the popular smaller
cutouts produced by Wallies ®,
these decorations will quickly
enhance and beautify any
smooth, flat surface, looking
like you spent painstaking
hours hand painting your
project. But, all that is actually required is to wet and apply. A sponge or paper towel
and water are the only supplies needed.
Tired of Your Bright
Idea? Try Another!
Big Murals are easily removed. When you are ready for
a new look the only difficulty
you will encounter is how to
decide among the replacement
designs. To remove the
Wallies ® murals you have previously pasted, simply wet the
cutouts very well and peel them
off; the glue is water soluble.
Retail prices for Wallies ®
Big Murals range from $39 to
$49, and like the smaller cutouts and murals that start at
$9.99, the products are available at craft, hobby, and general merchandise retailers,
and paint and wallpaper outlets nationwide.
For additional information
contact Wallies ® at 800-2552762 ext. 485 or visit the
website at www.wallies.com.
CMYK 478
Swimming Pool Owners…Here’s How To
Choose The Right Fence
(HIT)-An outdoor swimming pool
can be a great backyard escape from a
busy lifestyle. It can even enhance a
home’s value, making it an appealing
investment. However, homeowners
need more than just a pool and sunny
weather to create a carefree personal
retreat. Safety is a big consideration,
especially when it comes to children.
That’s why code requirements mandate
self-latching gates and a wall or fence
that’s at least 4 ft. high to completely
surround a swimming pool. You’ll find
that meeting this requirement also limits your liability as a pool owner.
To help save lives, most communities currently have laws requiring
pools to have child-proof fencing that
extends all the way around. In a 2002
report by the CDC’s National Center
for Injury Prevention and Control, it
was estimated that proper pool fencing would prevent approximately onefifth of all drowning incidents among
children under five years old. As a result, homeowners should choose pool
fencing with safety as a top priority.
But emphasizing safety doesn’t
mean that pool fencing can’t be fun, attractive, and a breeze to maintain.
Carefree vinyl fencing products by Royal Outdoor Products
surround an outdoor swimming pool in safety, strength, and style
for a beautiful backyard retreat.
Homeowners can have the best of both
worlds with beautiful, strong, carefree fencing that will protect and even
enhance the investment they’ve already made in their pool. Maintenance-free, weather-resistant vinyl is
a preferred material for pool fencing
today. Unlike wood, metal, and other
traditional materials, which can degrade, wear, rust, or rot over time, vinyl resists moisture and the elements.
So warping, rotting, peeling, and splitting are no longer concerns. Vinyl
fencing also offers an unmatched combination of strength, durability, and
smooth flawless appearance for decades. Ideal for any climate, vinyl has
a nonporous surface that can be easily kept clean by light rain or a quick
spray from a handy garden hose.
Vinyl fencing products vary in quality, variety, and price, so homeowners
should do some research to find the
best fit for their needs. Royal Outdoor
Products, a premier supplier of vinyl
outdoor home products, offers superior-quality all-vinyl Triple Crown
FenceTM and Vinyl Post & Rail products. Made from 100% virgin vinyl for
ultimate strength, Triple Crown
FenceTM comes in many styles. Full/
Semi-Private fence styles can immerse
homeowners in a secluded poolside
retreat, while traditional and non-traditional Picket and Decorative styles
add a unique splash of beauty to any
pool area. UV-protected to resist fading, Triple Crown FenceTM colors include Alpine White, Desert Tan, and
Pebblestone Clay, which complement
any home’s architectural style and
color scheme.
Royal Outdoor Products’ Full/Semi-Private fence styles can
immerse homeowners in a secluded poolside retreat, while
traditional and non-traditional Picket and Decorative styles add
a unique splash of beauty to any pool area.
Most fence manufacturers notch
their rail components, which can actually weaken the walls and make
fence failures more likely. That is not
the case with Royal Outdoor Products’
Triple Crown FenceTM products. Their
Vinyl Post & Rail components, offered in several attractive styles, feature patented Rail Locks® that ensure
exceptional strength and impact-resistance. Hidden rail locks eliminate the
need for nails, screws, and staples that
inevitably rust and fail over time. The
result is a fence that endures.
Homeowners should check with
their local building department for the
most up-to-date codes and requirements for pool barriers in their neighborhood, or contact an experienced
fencing product supplier, such as
Royal Outdoor Products.
For more information, call 800-4885245 or visit www.royalcrownltd.com.
Smart Solutions For Better Kitchen Organization
Home Improvement Tip:
(HIT)-What’s the secret to bringing
order to kitchen chaos? Organizational
experts will tell you it’s the cabinets. In
fact, the right cabinets can raise kitchen
organization to an art form. To help busy
homeowners expand and enhance
kitchen cabinetry space economically,
HomeCrest Cabinetry has introduced a
complete line of custom organiza-
tional solutions called Complements.
Opening up a world of possibilities,
HomeCrest Complements makes
kitchen space much more functional
and versatile without compromising
cabinetry form or style.
Built-in organizing systems and addon organizers for cabinetry provide solid
foundations for adapting kitchens to
HomeCrest Complements takes ordinary kitchen cabinet space
and kicks it up a notch with simple yet extraordinary solutions
that organize your life.
each chef’s personal organizational delight. Whatever cabinetry is chosen, it
can be augmented with an array of creative organizational solutions that work
within the confines of any kitchen to
bring order to the chaos. For example,
pull-out base and wall-filler cabinets
leverage otherwise unused space for
categorizing pantry items, such as
canned and boxed goods. Garbage and
recycling bins can be hidden in base
cabinets to expand kitchen space. Spice
drawer inserts keep a plethora of spices
orderly and conveniently at fingertips,
so the Madagascar Cinnamon does not
roll to Madagascar.
“Kitchen cabinets and drawers provide basic space, but they don’t always
offer organizational capabilities unless
they’re specially built in. Just think of
that space as a blank canvas and organizational tools as the art. So it’s what
you do creatively to complement that
space that creates beauty and harmony
within the home and simplifies your
lifestyle,” said Laurie Galbraith, Design
Manager at HomeCrest Cabinetry, a premier cabinetry manufacturer.
The Complements line includes many
built-ins, from sliding dovetailed wood
Apothecary & Spice Drawer Cabinets
CMYK 436
Out Hamper-Waste Basket, pull-out
Cookware Organizer, Wood Spice
Drawer Insert, and Pantry Basket
Rollout for deep utility cabinets.
“The possibilities for kitchen organization are unlimited when you’re open
to innovative new ideas,” said Ms.
Galbraith. “HomeCrest Complements
truly complements any lifestyle and puts
the art in organization.”
For more information, call 574-5359300 or visit www.homecrestinfo.com
P.O. Box 595, Goshen, IN 46527.
and Corner Condiment Shelves to Base
Pull-Out and Base Pantry cabinets with
swing-out shelves and door rack organizers that serve as discreet mini-pantries. For expanded, easy-access pantry
space, a Base SuperCabinet incorporates
sliding shelves, tiered sliding wire rack,
and six door-mounted combination
racks. Other built-ins include a rotating
Three Tier Reverse A Rack, Wall unit
pull-out condiment and spice organization in wall cabinet or base fillers and
sliding single or double base Wastebasket Cabinets. Add-on solutions include
a sliding four bin Recycle Center, Roll17
CMYK 426
Adding Pizzazz To Kids Rooms - As Easy As
1-2-3 (And Removable Too)
(HIT)-As children grow up they go
through many stages from infancy to
young adult. Their rooms may reflect
the children's age as an infant through
youth and teen years. Many parents
change the décor only when their children graduate from crib to bed. When
the child reaches his/her teen years
they want to have their own identity,
therefore want to “decorate” or personalize their rooms to match their
world.
Today you can add a little spark to
your child’s room by just adding a
“Wallie” Mural to the wall or maybe
to the furniture. In a matter of minutes you will transform the room with fun and personality! Your children will love their new room, and all
it takes is water, Wallies® and a sponge
to complete the task. And the best part
is, as the child outgrows the theme,
you can take it off without any glue
or damage to the surface.
Wallies are printed on high-quality,
prepasted, vinyl-coated paper. Each
mural contains two or three 28" x 40"
sheets of die cut pieces, making Big
Murals quick and easy to use. Some
Big Murals piece together to form one
large image. Wallies® cutouts include
25 pieces along with removable sticky
dots for temporary placement of the
designs before wetting and applying
them. Among the designs are many
themes to choose from for both boys
and girls. From airplanes, race cars
and surf boards for boys to castles,
fairies and flowers for girls. And of
course themes for adults too. And they
are affordable and easy to apply.
Wallies ® are perfect for renters too
because they are removable. Prices
begin at $9.99 for cutouts, $18.99 for
Murals and $39.99 for the Big Murals.
Wallies® are available at most craft,
hobby, and general merchandiser retailers, and paint and wallpaper outlets nationwide. View all the designs
at www.wallies.com. Also look for the
New Peel and Stick Chalkboard which
is another great product for children’s
rooms.
The Importance Of Well-Fitting And WellMaintained Window Screens
Trends For Home Ventilation
(Without Disease Laden Insects).
(HIT)-Spring rushes in with its share
of home improvement challenges just
as certainly as the scent of flowering
trees and warm breezes. None more
important than ventilation without the
pesky disease carrying insect population. As screen manufacturers step up
production to meet current homeowner
demands, they are focused, as well, on
expanding awareness on the health benefits of window screens ...
A cooperative fifty-state effort will
distribute the Screen Manufacturers
Association’s new “For Healths Sake”
18
posters (smainfo.org/4HS_sma.pdf) and
newspaper publicity through the CDC
Centers for Disease Control. Considering the size of the sometimes deadly
pests, an ounce of prevention goes a
long way toward the safety of family
and community while complacency
comes with considerable risk. Screen
Manufacturers Association would like
to remind seasoned homeowners and
those entering the world of home improvement and maintenance that there
is a large variety of screening choices
available. Screens are intended for ventilation and protection from insects.
Available for windows, front and back
doors, sliding doors, pet doors and even
garage doors when kept in repair or replaced annually will provide everyone
with peace of mind keeping all protected
from infection and disease. Screens are
not intended to keep anything inside the
home. Replace screens in disrepair and
add custom or standard screens to all areas of the home were inscets can invade.
Manufactured on giant drums it is
possible to obtain many sizes and screen
mesh. Fiberglass screen will not shrink,
rust or dent is resilient, easy to use, and
long lasting, standard grade fiberglass
screening is recommended for windows
and doors. Mesh: 18x16 wire diameter
.011" Colors vary and standard width
is 4" through 54" in 2" increments plus
60", 72", 84 and 96", Roll Length: 100'
or 600' heavy-duty fiberglass screen is
recommended for patio and pool enclosures. The thicker wire diameter and
slightly more open mesh make this the
perfect choice for large areas such as
porches, patios, and pool enclosures.
Mesh: 18x14 wire diameter .013" Colors vary and Standard Width: 24",
30", 36", 42", 48", 54", 60", 66", 72",
78", 84", 90", 96", 102", 108" Roll
Length: 100'. 20x20 Fine mesh screen
is proven to be effective in areas that
need protection from tiny insects commonly referred to as sand fleas or “nosee-ums”. Heavy gauge construction
allows use in patio enclosures as well
as windows and doors. Mesh: 20x20
wire diameter .013" Colors vary and
Standard Width: 36", 48", 60", 72", 84",
96", 108", Roll Length: 100'. Customers
with pets will be sure to appreciate pet
resistant screening. Made of vinylcoated polyester, this fabric is much
heavier than traditional fiberglass or aluminum screening. Pet screen is resistant
to tears and damage caused by house
hold pets. Color is typically black,
CMYK 463
standard width: 36" and 48", Roll
Length: 100'. Fiberglass screen is
manufactured under strict standards to
assure that the colors are consistent and
the mesh is uniform for all products including garages, pool cages, screen
porches, lanais and patio enclosures. To
clean screens, simply wash down with
a hose. Please visit www.SMAINFO.org
for a full history of the industry giants, their products and contact information. Watch for the annual National
Window Safety Week Observances:
April 20 - 26, 2008.
CMYK 409
Preserving The “Welcome” In Hardwood Floors
(HIT)-Decades of home owners have applied various wood
treatment products that have
evolved over time. With the
goal of elegant wood floors literally out-lasting generations,
many have learned that it’s not
difficult to preserve the life of
fine wood. Try applying the
following common sense tips
and see the results for yourself:
Vinegar and water, oil soap,
furniture polish and window
cleaners all have their place in
home maintenance, and it’s not
as cleaning agents for your fine
wood floors.
Permanent damage can be
the result of excessive wet
mopping–as water and vinegar
can cause wood expansion and
also dull the finish.
Cleaners with silicone, wax
or oil soaps can leave a residue
BonaKemi’s Hardwood Cleaner
that will adversely affect the
adhesion of a new coat of finish, requiring a complete sanding and finishing of your floors
to remove it.
Cleaners that do not have any
residue allow you to periodically “pad and recoat” your
floors–which involves engaging a hardwood floor refinishing professional to deep clean
and abrade the floor, then add
a new coat of finish. This process conserves time and money
and keeps your floors looking
like new.
One popular residue-free
hardwood floor product currently available on the market is
BonaKemi’s Swedish Formula®
Hardwood Floor Cleaner. It’s a
proven cleaner formulated specifically for polyurethane finished hardwood floors. This environmentally friendly, nontoxic, pH-neutral waterborne
product effectively cleans dirt,
grease and sticky spills without
leaving any dulling residue.
BonaKemi’s hardwood floor
cleaner meets the stringent requirements
for
GREENGUARD’s Children and
Schools program for indoor air
quality. Fore more information
go to www.greenguard.org.
Practical maintenance tips
such as regular vacuuming or
sweeping, promptly removing
spills, placing mats at outside
doors to trap sand and grit, and
using protective pads or caps
on “feet” of furniture can all
help in keeping your hardwood
floors fresh. Also, avoid walking on your floors with highheeled shoes and keep the nails
of pets trimmed.
Professional Products and
Services
When hardwood floors become worn or damaged beyond
what periodic recoating can restore, you will need professional help to refinish your
floors. It’s process traditionally
thought of as dusty and inconvenient. New products and services, however, like BonaKemi’s
GREENGUARD certified Environmental Choice System™, include sanding systems that eliminate dust, and Swedish waterborne finishes without the harmful fumes.
To find a professional using
the Bona system, to contact
BonaKemi USA, Inc., or to buy
products online, go to
www.bonakemi.com or call
800-574-4674.
Cleaning your hardwood floors with Bona’s
Hardwood Floor System is safe and easy.
Home Security And Safety Trends From
Electrical Contractors
(HIT)-Homeowners looking
to increase their home’s security and safety now have more
choices among new products
and systems that can check activity from virtually anywhere.
According to Electrical Contractor and Security+Life
Safety Systems magazines, published by the National Electrical Contractors Association
(NECA), Bethesda, Md., more
electrical contractors around
the country are specifying, designing and installing security
and life safety products such
as:
• Lighting: new systems include whole-house lighting
controllers
• Alarm systems: such as integrated wireless intrusion
alarm systems that fit into
diverse home d cor
• Locking systems: including
digital keypad controls,
two-way wireless key fobs
and systems that allow
doors to be locked remotely
• Intrusion control panels: to
detect unauthorized movements, forced openings,
gas leaks and fires, crimes
and medical emergencies;
some systems include as
many as 32 different zones
in the home that can be
monitored including smoke
detectors and carbon monoxide sensors
• Cameras: including video
door phones, and closed
circuit television (CCTV)
systems that can capture
images outside the home
and save them to a hard
drive to be easily downloaded for police
• Whole House Automation:
systems can include fire/
life safety and security,
home theater, audio installation and other controls
“What’s being done today
in home security is incredible,” said Dan Bollin, president, Transtar Security and
Technologies, part of Transtar
Electric Inc., a Toledo, Ohiobased full-service electrical
contracting business. “You
can have cameras installed
and monitor them away from
home through the Internet.
You can integrate your lights
so a microprocessor remembers your lighting habits over
two weeks time and replicates
them when you leave for vacation. Your lights can flash
if there’s a break-in,” he said.
New alarm systems include
The Easy Series alarm system
from Bosch Security Systems
Inc. for intruder protection.
The user-friendly system is
directly connected to motion,
door and window sensors that
automatically raise the alarm
in the event of an intruder.
The panel also features voiceactivated, menu-based navi-
gation and animated color
symbols that indicate the current status of the system and
activated or deactivated with
a single press of a button.
And if the homeowner is on
the road, s/he can be notified
of any activity or check the
status of the system through
audio and text messaging on
any phone, cell phone, or
pager. Smoke detectors and
emergency call functions may
a l s o b e a d d e d . We b s i t e :
w w w. b o s c h s e c u r i t y. u s /
index.html.
Active Response Monitoring (ARM) is an innovative
home security monitoring and
notification service provided
by VOXCOM Inc. It lets
homeowners remotely monitor and control their home security system with mobile access to real-time video. A homeowner can receive instant
notification of all alarms,
events and alerts regarding
their system via email, SMS
text message or automated
phone call to their mobile
phone and check on whether
their children arrived home
from school safely. Homeowners can also view all live
or archived video from surveillance cameras, showing
exactly what is happening at
any location. Web site: www.
activeresponsemonitoring.com.
CMYK 450
Published by the National Electrical
Contractors Association (NECA), Bethesda,
Md., Electrical Contractor magazine delivers
85,000+ electrical contractors and more than
65,900 electrical contracting locations, more
than any other industry publication.
Telephone: (301) 657-3110. Web site:
www.ecmag.com.
19
CMYK 462
Put Your Walls
On A Diet!
Rohm and Haas Paint Quality
Institute Helps You Choose Paint
Colors and Sheens to Help Define
Spaces in Your Home
(HIT)-“Paint color and sheen can
influence a person’s perception on size
and width of a room,” Debbie Zimmer,
Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute
(PQI) paint and color expert says. “By
taking a cue from fashion, a person’s
living space can be viewed as larger or
smaller or taller or shorter.”
For instance, a light-colored paint will
make a small room appear bigger while
darker shades will make a large room
appear more intimate. Persons can use
types of paint-induced optical illusions
in any space in their homes.
Zimmer recommends three easy tips
to “adjust size” of living spaces:
Raise or Lower the Ceiling
If a ceiling feels too low, bright
white can “raise” your perception of its
height. By taking a cue from clothing
designers, adventuresome homeowners
can paint their walls with vertical stripes
to enhance the sense of height.
On the other hand, dramatic high
ceilings may cause a living space to
feel cavernous. To visually lower ceiling height, add a mid to deep hue on
the ceiling. Another alternative is to
paint horizontal stripes on the walls.
Shrink or Expand Rooms
Just as a dark monochromatic outfit can visually “slim” an appearance,
a monochromatic paint scheme can do
the same in a large space. Choosing
darker shade for the walls will reign
in a large room and create a cozy and
intimate space.
Is your room too narrow and
long? Just widen it by painting the
shorter walls a deeper color than the
longer walls. If color alone is not
enough to change the perceived dimensions, use color combinations to
create visual breaks. Divide your
wall space horizontally with a chair
rail and paint the upper and lower
portions different hues.
Don’t Forget the Sheen
For both visual and practical reasons, selecting the right sheen of
paint is just as important as the actual color. Glossier finishes lend
greater warmth and depth to surfaces than do flat paints. For example, a room with white gloss
paint on the ceiling will seem larger
than a room whose ceiling is painted
with a white flat paint.
For additional tips on choosing hues
that can impact room dimensions, visit
www.paintquality.com, where every
great paint job begins.
Choosing a darker shade for the walls will reign in a large room
and create a cozy and intimate space. (Photo Courtesy of Business
Wire).
About the Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute
The Paint Quality Institute was formed by Rohm and Haas Company in 1989 to educate people on the advantages of using quality interior and exterior paints and coatings.
The Paint Quality Institute’s goal is to provide information on the virtues of quality paint
as well as color trends and decorating with paint through a variety of vehicles, including
television appearances, newspaper and magazine articles, and instructional literature. Be
sure to visit the Paint Quality Institute at www.paintquality.com.
20
CMYK 449
The Beauty Of Modern
Floor Finish Products
Waterborne Floor Finishing
Products For Healthier Home
Application
(HIT)-Newer … safer … wood
floor refinishing products are restoring confidence among homeowners
with projects that never seem to
make it to the top of the home renovation list. The modern hardwood
floor finishing products are waterborne. They have no harmful fumes,
are virtually odorless and nonflammable, yet feature superior durability
over their solvent-based counterparts.
Homeowners can now plan restoration
and maintenance wood flooring
projects without those lingering concerns, and the new safer finishes will
not change color over time.
When used in conjunction with
environmentally responsible dust
containment systems, the usual reluctance to the mess, and the generally unhealthy downtime that in past
years accompanied such improvements, is virtually eliminated. Particularly for those with allergies and
other breathing problems who may,
additionally, be worried about lingering air quality, the news has
never been better.
A Safer Environment for
Homeowners and Hardwood
Flooring Contractors Alike
The environmental focus of industry leaders like BonaKemi USA, Inc.
has been key to the development of
products and services like Bona’s
GREENGUARD certified Environmental Choice System™ which features dust containment, waterborne
finishes and floor care products that
meet these stringent air-quality standards and testing protocols for indoor
products.
An industry independent, non-profit
organization, the GREENGUARD
Environmental Institute (GEI) works
to improve public health and the quality of life through programs that improve indoor air quality. For more information visit www.greenguard.org.
Current health assurances relating
to the dust and fumes associated with
traditional hardwood floor refinishing
are met in two important ways. First
the latest dust containment systems
connect the sanding equipment to a
high-powered vacuum, which extracts
the dust generated during the sanding
process. But dust containment is only
half of the equation when it comes to
maintaining indoor air quality. Using
an environmentally responsible floor
finish is the other.
“Refinishing hardwood floors
with waterborne products and sanding with dust containment equipment creates a healthier environment for not only the hardwood
flooring contractor, but the homeowner as well,” according to Marilyn
Black, Ph.D., of Air Quality Sciences,
a third-party indoor air quality testing
company that was part of the GEI team
certifying the Bona system.
For information about refinishing and
caring for your hardwood floors, to find
a professional using the Bona System,
or to buy floor care products online visit
www.bonakemi.com or call 800574-4674.
With Bona’s low-VOC waterborne finishes there is no need to
move out of your home during refinishing.
No more dust. No more fumes. Dust containment systems
and environmentally responsible floor finishes now offer
an easier, healthier way to beautify wooden floors.
Low-cost online special section sites available!
Home Improvement Time editorial material is
now available to newspapers and news sources as an
attractive, turnkey, branded, online special section site …
linked directly to your publication’s Internet site.
Home and garden stories are added to your Home
Improvement Time online special section automatically
throughout the year, providing fresh new tips and
information for readers, and an attractive tie-in
opportunity for advertisers. In fact, with the site’s
built-in ad server and directory listing features,
cross-selling to hard copy home and garden section
advertisers has never been easier!
Perhaps best of all, H.I.T. special section sites
are inexpensive, require no long-term contract, and
include a 90-day FREE TRIAL. For current rates
or information on how to get started, contact
Home Improvement Time by phone (412-787-2881)
or send an e-mail to:
[email protected]
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