Home & Garden News

Get to know your water heater

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com

New high-quality exterior paint creates the wow factor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com

Make the most out of entertaining

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com

Cleaning with bleach 101

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com

5 ways to maintain your vehicle

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

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

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

• Engine oil

• Transmission fluid

• Engine coolant

• Power steering fluid

• Brake fluid

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com

Lawn care the natural way

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com

Spring scrubbing from head to toe

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com

Keep critters out of cottages

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com

How to decorate small spaces

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com

Get smashing lighting upgrades on a shoestring budget

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com

Improve your outdoor décor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com

Build with concrete, not wood

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com

How to get a good night's sleep

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com

Rediscover the joys of home with your “staycation”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Embrace the power of light

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com
Want to make $2,000 a week? Visit www.bengelonlinebusiness.com

Colour me spring

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com
Visit our dog's Blog at: www.frameyourpets.com

Curb appeal makes a good first impression

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com
Visit my blog From Love Chunk To Love Hunk at: www.lovechunk.info

Small kitchen projects add great value

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: www.newscanada.com
Visit our pet information blog at: www.frameyourpets.info

Revitalize your home this spring

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The colour PINK is a registered trademark of Owens Corning

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

Insulate against roof damage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The colour PINK is a registered trademark of Owens Corning

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

Mastering your first do-it-yourself project

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The colour PINK is a registered trademark of Owens Corning

Source: www.newscanada.com
Visit our Pet Information Blog at: www.frameyourpets.info

Help your lawn thrive next spring

2008-12-30T08:24:00.000-08:00

(NC)—As the cooler temperatures roll in it's time to get your lawn and garden ready for the winter months ahead. Take the time now to protect your yard and you will be rewarded with a lush, beautiful and weed resistant lawn and garden in the spring.

Start by removing any debris and leaves off your lawn before your final cut. Your lawn should be put to bed at the same height it is maintained during the summer – around 2.5 inches long. Keeping your grass clippings on the lawn will also help return at least 25 per cent of the turf's nitrogen back into the soil. Aerating your lawn will help create passageways for essential nutrients and worms that contribute valuable microorganisms to your soil.

"You can help your lawn grow thick and strong in the spring by overseeding in the fall." explains Scotts lawn care expert Scott MacDonald, "Cool nights, more rainfall and heavier dew in the fall provide the ideal conditions to repair damage caused by the hot, dry summer."

Bare spots are best repaired by using an all-in-one product, such as Scotts Patch Master lawn repair, which combines grass seed, starter fertilizer and mulch all in a bag for ease of application.

One of the most essential things to do in the fall is to fertilize. Many people do not realize that fall fertilizing is the most important application because it gives your lawn the nutrients it needs to stay healthy. Winter care fertilizers energize turf, producing a strong and healthy root system and ensure they emerge greener than ever in the spring. After your last cut of the year, a fall feeding provides the nutrients your lawn needs to withstand the harshest weather. Winter care fall lawn fertilizer provides the best ratio of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium (N-P-K).

The fall is also a great time to prepare your garden for the winter ahead. Remove any debris, diseased foliage and weeds, plant flower bulbs now that will provide welcome blooms at the first hint of spring. Plant bulbs with bone meal using something like Miracle-Gro Organic Choice bone meal to promote healthy plants and bigger spring blooms. Most perennials, shrubs and trees benefit from fall planting, giving them time to anchor and establish new roots. Be sure to add a two to three inch layer of mulch to new plants and rake leaves onto flowerbeds and around shrubs and bushes to create a warm blanket to protect plants against severe cold. Finally, don't forget to thoroughly clean your gardening tools and sharpen your mower so you're ready as soon as spring arrives.

To speak with a Scotts expert on lawn care call 1-866-436-7645. For a Scotts Garden expert call 1-866-436-8477 or visit www.Scotts.ca.

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

Recreate that backyard bliss

2008-12-20T15:04:00.000-08:00

(NC)—When you were a kid, your backyard was an adventure waiting to happen. Just because you're an adult doesn't mean you have to give up on the idea of finding paradise on your own property. Here are some tips to turn your own yard into an outdoor oasis.

Warm Water Retreat
Remember the thrill of running through the sprinkler or enjoying a dip in the kiddie pool on a warm summer day. But wait a minute – that water was freezing. If you want a slightly less shocking way to cool your family and Fido down and extend the outdoor water play well into the next season, install a single-handle, hot-cold outdoor hydrant faucet from Moen. This faucet is the only one of its kind on the market, capable of delivering a mix of hot and cold water from one spout, with only one handle. To add to your peace of mind outdoors, the single-handle, hot-cold faucet offers an innovative temperature limit stop mechanism, assuring that the water never gets too hot for little hands (or paws).

Dig This
As a kid, having a sandbox in your backyard was the ultimate treat. Now that you're grown up, instead of castles, you are growing flowers, fruit and vegetables. This job requires more than just an old sand pail and a plastic shovel. For the former sandboxer turned avid gardener, a potting bench is the perfect backyard amenity. Look for deluxe models with soil trays, tool hooks, drawers and compartments for all of your grown-up gardening tools.

Light Your Fire
Nothing beats a bonfire on a cool autumn evening – roasting marshmallows around the warm, blazing flames. How about a fire that looks amazing and can be used year round? The Gizeh outdoor fireplace from Rais stands out in the garden, with its sleek, triangular shape and its ever-changing colour. Plus, this fire does much more than toast marshmallows – it doubles as a barbecue grill to facilitate al fresco dining for the entire family.

This year, don't allow summer to pass you by without taking time to enjoy life's simple pleasures. With a few cool summer additions, you can enjoy paradise in your own backyard.

Source: www.newscanada.com
Visit Eddie the Dalmatian's Blog at: www.frameyourpets.com

Let gadgets do the work in your kitchen

2008-12-15T13:00:00.000-08:00

(NC)—Today, more women are working two jobs: outside the home and at home. Time (or lack thereof) is a common complaint among all working women. Luckily, companies are easing the pain of household chores—especially in the kitchen.

Faucets with Functionality
From washing pots and baby bottles – to watering plants, your kitchen faucet is a workhorse and a focal point. So, don't settle for a plain-jane design, choose a faucet that provides both function and fashion.

Pullout models, such as Ascent from ShowHouse by Moen feature high-arc designs, beautiful styling and Moen's unique, multi-function spray options – spray, stream or Moen's patented pause mode.

Let Robots Do the Chores
Today's house-cleaning robots get the job done when it comes to cleaning kitchen floors. New robotic floor-washing vacuums, such as the Scooba from iRobot, use sensors to navigate around a kitchen, vacuuming, washing and drying floors. That means more time to spend with friends and family rather than cleaning up after them.

Find a New Kind of Fast Food
After a long day, preparing a home-cooked meal seems like a daunting task. However, there's a new twist to get home-cooked meals fast. Referred to as "take and bake" or "fix and freeze," these new businesses allow women to spend one evening preparing several weeks worth of great-tasting meals. Women on-the-go can simply assemble the recipe and package for freezing. That means a quick, healthy meal–without the mess.

Enjoy a Quick Cup of Joe
Often a caffeine boost in the morning is just what the doctor ordered. New one-cup coffee brewing systems provide a quick cup before running out the door. The small size creates less clutter on countertops and single-serving pots brew a fresh cup in less than a minute. Plus, there is no measuring, no filters, no grounds to clean up and no waste.

By adding a few conveniences to the kitchen, working women will soon be able to spend less time "working" on their household jobs and more time enjoying being at home.

For more information on ShowHouse by Moen products, call 1-800-465-6130.

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

Tips to cut energy costs

2008-11-24T08:47:00.000-08:00

(NC)—Did you know that 10 to 25 percent of the average family's total heating bill literally goes out the window? Heat is drawn to the cold glass of windows to escape a home.

Experts at Hunter Douglas offer the following easy tips to make your home physically fit for winter cold:

• Weatherize–Seal up holes, weatherstrip doors and insulate attic floors. When the fireplace is not in use, keep the damper closed.

• Insulate–Add insulation at the window with window fashions with high-energy ratings. One such window covering is Duette shades from Hunter Douglas, which pioneered energy efficiency at the window, with a honeycomb construction that traps air in the honeycomb cells. The new Architella Collection raises energy efficiency to a new level featuring a unique, patented honeycomb-within-a-honeycomb design for additional air pockets.

• Improve and Maintain Your Mechanical Systems–Service and clean your furnace annually and change or clean the filters monthly in heating season. According to experts, lowering the heat from 72° to 65° eight hours a day can reduce heating bills by 10 percent.

• Watch Your Windows–On sunny winter days, open window coverings to let in solar heat, especially on south-facing windows.

• Keep the Air Circulating–Don't block floor registers, baseboards or radiators. If you have ceiling fans, turn them on in reverse when using heat. Warm air rises so the reverse air flow can help circulate the warm air around the entire room.

• Landscape–Plant deciduous trees on the south and east sides of your home to keep your home warm in winter and cool in the summer. Plant evergreens on the north and west sides to stop wind.

More information is available online at www.hunterdouglas.ca or toll-free at 1-800-265-1363.

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

Instant decorating tips for bedroom and bath

2008-11-17T10:56:00.000-08:00

(NC)—Decorating does not have to involve a lot of time or expense when you follow these inventive tips from Sally Morse, director of creative services for Hunter Douglas, Canada's leading manufacturer of custom window fashions, to give an instant uplift to your bedroom and bath – arguably the most important rooms in your house:

Bedrooms – To refresh your bedroom, Morse suggests new bedding to make the room seem like it belongs in a luxurious boutique hotel. Add some pillows in a variety of sizes anchored by a bolster. Top the bed with a blanket or pretty sheet and roll a comforter at the foot to have on hand for cold evenings. Morse also recommends adding some "green" to your rooms with new bamboo fabrics that offer great softness.

According to Morse, a new coat of paint is one of the quickest and most dramatic decorating uplifts. Bring home those tranquil colours from a seaside vacation, especially the soft blue / greens at the point where the sky meets the sea.

As psychologists advise that we sleep better in a dark room, add some room-darkening window treatments. New Pirouette window shadings are available in two opacities – semi-opaque and room-darkening – in a delightful array of textured fabrics and colours. This innovative window fashion resembles a hobbled Roman shade, but features soft horizontal fabric vanes attached to a sheer backing that open into soft contoured folds for an enhanced view and slide into a flattened position for excellent light blockage – and a good night's sleep, especially in the room-darkening option.

Bathrooms – Morse suggests turning your master bath into a spa with the addition of piles of white towels, scented candles and a fresh coat of paint. And don't forget the "fifth" wall… if you choose white for the walls try painting the ceiling sky blue. To have privacy plus a real sky view in your bath select a window fashion with a top-down / bottom-up design option such as Duette Architella honeycomb shades. This product features a patented honeycomb-within-a-honeycomb construction for more air pockets than traditional honeycomb shades. It dramatically increases insulating R-values (resistance to heat flow) in colder months.

More information is available online at www.hunterdouglas.ca or toll-free at 1-800-265-1363.

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

Tips for refreshing the rooms you entertain in

2008-11-10T09:30:00.000-08:00

(NC)—We all want our homes to look their best when entertaining for the holidays or any time of year. Sally Morse, director of creative services for Hunter Douglas, Canada's leading manufacturer of custom window fashions, has the following tips for refreshing the rooms you entertain in:

Living Rooms – Refresh your living room with slipcovers. Morse suggests bringing standard slipcovers to a monogram shop where you can add your initials, a family crest or motto to give them a custom look. Brighten up that dark fireplace with the addition of some pale wood strung with lights and replace pictures with groupings of mirrors to add reflected light to a room.
Bring the outdoors in with Hunter Douglas Silhouette window shadings. Featuring soft fabric vanes suspended between two sheer facings, this window fashion allows you to have your view and even with the vanes open, filter out up to 88 percent of harmful UV rays. A new Bouclé fabric for this product features an organic-inspired, natural look in the three-inch and a four-inch vane size.

Dining Rooms – To dress up your dining room, get your silver, mercury glass and china out from the cupboard and put it on display. Add an area rug and change the shades on lamps and ceiling fixtures. Sheer shades will create a soft translucent light. Try a versatile window fashion like Silhouette window shadings, or Luminette Privacy Sheers, a product similar to Silhouette shadings but on the vertical. Put all lighting on dimmers so that you can be the movie director of your meals.

Media Rooms – These are now perhaps the most popular new room in the house. To make yours seem like a movie theater, take some tips from Morse and add movie posters (available on the Internet) and a popcorn machine. Be sure to have opaque window coverings. A good choice is newly updated Somner custom vertical blinds, the most complete collection of vinyl and fabric styles on the market with the rich look of hardwood offered as well. Motorization and specialty track systems make it possible to operate these blinds with a touch of a button for showtime.

Another excellent choice is Vignette Modern Roman shades, a dramatically improved innovation on the traditional Roman shade available in everything from seersucker to satin weaves, with PowerRise with Platinum Technology for remote control operation at the touch of a button. Duette Architella honeycomb shades in an opaque fabric with PowerRise with Platinum Technology are another option.

Kitchens – Don't be afraid of adding colour to your kitchen, Morse advises. She reports that the recent addition of a black glass backsplash to her counters sets off other colours and adds space by creating an optical illusion of infinity. Something as simple as changing your kitchen towels can add colour and "spice" to a kitchen.

With these tips, the most important rooms in your home will be ready to welcome guests.

More information is available online at www.hunterdouglas.ca or toll-free at 1-800-265-1363.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Home maintenance quick tips

2008-11-03T08:05:00.000-08:00

(NC)—Every house is different, but there are some common elements every homeowner can include on a regular maintenance list:

• Check the grading and drainage around the foundation
• Seal driveway and walkway cracks
• Check fencing and gates
• Check and trim trees near the house
• Check for deteriorating/damaged siding
• Check for loose, damaged, or missing roofing and flashings
• Clean all gutters and leaders
• Check weather-stripping and seals on all windows and doors
• Insulate water lines that are subject to freezing
• Check condition of the water heater
• Check ventilation openings for nests, blockage

While this list is not comprehensive, it's a good start to identifying some potential trouble spots in any home. Remember, these tips are only general guidelines. Since each situation is different, contact a professional if you have questions about a specific issue. More home safety and maintenance information is available online at housemaster.com.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Electric panel primer

2008-10-27T09:39:00.000-07:00

(NC)—After moving into a new home, one of the most daunting things homeowners see is the electric panel. Some simple safety and usage tips can help make this area less of a mystery.

Safety First
Safety considerations begin even before officially buying your home. Prior to closing, get a professional home inspector to check if circuit breakers and fuses are compatible with the connected wire. Also, check that only one wire is connected to an individual circuit breaker or fuse. Overloading can be a hazard and an issue down the road.

Electric panels are often located in basements or in laundry rooms. Before handling the panel, look around for water puddles or moisture. If there is a leak near the panel, do not approach it. Consult the appropriate professionals to repair the leak immediately and check the panel.

What's behind that door?
The main panel is the connection point between the incoming service lines and the house wiring. Typically, it contains a service disconnect (the main shut-off), overload protection (circuit breakers or fuses), and of course, the wires themselves. In modern setups, you usually only see the breaker and main shut-off switches. The rest is hidden behind the panel.

Everything should be clearly labeled so that a particular circuit can be located in an emergency or for servicing. A main shut off might not be required in your area, but for safety reasons it's strongly suggested that you have one installed if you don't have one already.

Remember, these tips are only general guidelines. Since each situation is different, contact a professional if you have questions about a specific issue. More home safety and maintenance information is available online at www.housemaster.com.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Roof care quick tips

2008-10-20T09:09:00.000-07:00

(NC) - When buying a home, one of the most important things to consider is the condition of the roof. And even if it is watertight at the time of inspection, you may still find it leaking sooner than expected.

To stay ahead of such situations, check the attic periodically for telltale signs of leakage. Check all roof flashings and areas where the roof is penetrated by a chimney vent, skylight, dormer or other protrusion.

Leaks often develop around roof penetrations because the flashing that seals the joints or the sealant dries out and cracks. Apply sealants at roof joints periodically. If you have loose shingles, secure them with roofing nails, but nails should not be left exposed.

Remember, these tips are only general guidelines. Since each situation is different, contact a professional if you have questions about a specific issue. More home safety and maintenance information is available online at housemaster.com.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Forecast for fall: perfect paint

2008-10-14T13:59:00.000-07:00

(NC) - Painting is one of the most impactful and cost effective ways to drastically change the look of a room. Adding a quick coat of paint allows you to set the tone of your home, but before picking up a brush, consider the following tips courtesy of The Home Depot Canada.

Getting started - Before choosing a paint colour, consider the natural and artificial light in each room. Keep in mind that lighter colours tend to make a room appear larger, while darker colours create a cozy atmosphere.

Matte or glossy - Paint sheen is the amount of light reflected from the paint's surface. Flat or matte paint absorbs light and is typically used for interior walls, while glossy paint reflects it, making it perfect for shining exterior surfaces.

Sheen scenes - Paint is available in various sheens. Flat and matte sheens give a smooth and subtle finish, working well in living rooms and bedrooms. Consider an eggshell, low-lustre or satin sheen for rooms where washable walls are needed.

Fall trends
Fireside - The warm colours of hearth fire, namely red, orange and yellow, define this palette with subtle hints of purple and pink acting as accents. Work the look by picking a main colour and building around it with hues from the same colour family.

New Artisan - Create a rustic feeling with styles that look like they've been around forever. Traditional finishes, such as bronze and copper, lead the way along with the return of gold and brass.

Up Country - The return of white washing and antique grey finishes reflects this trend. Light-infused rooms work better with blue- or grey-based whites, while yellow or cream-based whites provide warmth and brighten dark rooms. Complete the project with grey and stone hues.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Green chic

2008-10-08T08:37:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Students heading back to school and settling into their new home away from home may be looking for ways to create a more eco-conscious dorm life. With a few simple adjustments, you'll create a chic, green space with the following tips from The Home Depot Canada.

Get glowing - Install compact fluorescent light bulbs in your lamps to be more energy efficient. You can recycle them at your nearest The Home Depot store once they have expired.

Clean up - Choose eco-friendly products to keep your pad clean. A variety of new products under the Eco Options line are now available. Whether it's for daily, all-purpose use or for your LCD screen, there are a variety of products available.

Leafy life - Add some nature to your new home with a plant. It will not only add some colour, but also improve air quality. Plant in a pretty pot for an extra shot of style.

Frame it - Add a print and some punch to the walls by framing a piece of funky wallpaper. Not only do you create an attractive focal point in your room but you can reuse it again later.

Draw the shades - Keep the light out for a late morning sleep-in with shades or blinds. They help control temperature by reducing or adding the amount of sunlight entering the room and can also add texture and colour to your cozy cove.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Buy a house and build a home

2008-10-02T16:51:00.000-07:00

(NC)—More than 1.5 million Canadians lack safe and affordable housing. That means nearly one in every 20 Canadians may not have a place they can truly call home. In an effort to help turn the tide on this often overlooked crisis, The Home Depot Canada and Habitat for Humanity have once again partnered together for the second annual Buy a House, Build a Home Campaign. This year, the campaign raised more than $230,000, almost tripling what was raised by Canadians last year.

During the four-week campaign, which ran during the month of June, Canadians who visited any one of the 166 The Home Depot locations across the country had the opportunity to purchase a commemorative paper house for two dollars.

The proceeds from this campaign are donated to Habitat for Humanity and used to purchase the materials needed to help build affordable housing for families in need. The result of this year's Buy a House, Build a Home campaign generated enough funds to purchase materials to build 230 bedrooms across the country.

The Home Depot also issued a national challenge offering a special build grant to the community that raised the most funds. This year, the winning community was Carleton Place, Ontario and a $25,000 home build grant was given to the National Capital Region Habitat for Humanity affiliate for a local project.

Since 1996, The Home Depot has been the largest supporter of Habitat for Humanity in Canada and currently donates more than $3 million in funding and products and thousands of volunteer hours each year.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Top ten tips for 'greener' garden maintenance

2008-09-29T08:45:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Don't let fall stop you from maintaining a green garden. The following top ten environmentally friendly tips from The Home Depot will get your lawn and garden geared up for fall and help repair summer damage.

1. To prevent disease on your lawn rake up fallen leaves and make your own compost.

2. Seeding your lawn in the fall encourages lushness and keeps weeds out. The soil temperature and moisture from morning dew are especially important to seed germination this time of year.

3. Longer grass performs better in hot and/or dry conditions. Use a higher mower setting and save your lawn from dry patches.

4. Fertilize in early fall to help plants withstand winter. The nutrients in the fertilizer help plants lay down root reserves and contribute to re-growth when grass comes out of a long period of dormancy.

5. Plant new trees and shrubs while the ground is still warm. Stake trees that are exposed to strong winds to prevent damage.

6. A layer of mulch can help prevent weed seeds from germinating and improve a plant's moisture retention.

7. Plant bulbs in the fall for beautiful blooms next spring. Be selective about types of plants to ensure they are best suited to your garden's location and condition.

8. Give evergreens a lot to drink. They lose water all winter and under-watering can result in browning.

9. Cover delicate plants with burlap to act as a windbreaker in the harsher weather and prevent damage.

10. Hit The Home Depot for the right tools for fall clean-up whether it's a rake, composter or a bag of fertilizer.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Diving into water conservation

2008-09-25T08:09:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Canadians live in close proximity to 20 per cent of the world's fresh water supply, and like many other natural resources, we need to manage our use so the supply remains sustainable. Consider the following tips from The Home Depot Canada to reduce your home's water usage and cut energy bills.

• Toilets account for some 30 to 40 per cent of residential water consumption, so consider installing a low-flow toilet that can save you seven to 14 litres per flush.

• A low-flow showerhead can help conserve water without sacrificing pressure, as it uses less than 10 litres per minute compared to 15-30 litres with older showerheads.

• Use your taps sparingly (such as when brushing your teeth) to avoid wasting water.

• Mounting an aerator directly onto an older faucet is an easy and inexpensive way to decrease water flow by 25 to 50 per cent.
• To green up your laundry room, try the following ideas: wait to run the wash until you have a full load; use only cold water; and run the washing machine outside of peak hours.

• When purchasing a new washing machine, consider an ENERGY STAR certified front load appliance, which uses 40 per cent less water than a top loading model and will keep your clothes clean and fresh.

• Make your home water conservation upgrades easier on the wallet by checking homedepot.ca/ecooptions for a list of municipal installation rebates offered in each province.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Upgrade your kitchen in one weekend

2008-09-22T11:31:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Kitchens are the social hub of the household and one of the most important contributors to your home's resale value. Renovations need not be costly nor time consuming. Whatever your style, consider the following tips from The Home Depot, for easy weekend D-I-Y projects that make a big impact.

Hardly small – Simple changes to traditional hardware can noticeably change the look of your entire kitchen. By switching out your cabinet handles, knobs and pulls, you can transform your kitchen into a room that reflects your personal style.

Bright idea – Changing the lighting in your kitchen can dramatically shift its look and draw focus to different areas. Pendant lighting will soften the feel of the room, while a chandelier adds warmth.

In sink – Upgrading the sink and faucet is an easy way to create a stylish and functional space for both cooking and cleaning. You can find faucets in more heights, materials and finishes than ever before. Consider the latest trends including wall-mounted and high-arc faucets with bigger spouts.

Tile it up – A stylish kitchen backsplash is a relatively inexpensive way to modernize the kitchen and protect your walls. It can be an extension of your countertop style, coordinated to match the flooring or something completely unique.

Count on it – Next to your floors, the kitchen countertop is the most used surface in your home. As a focal point in your kitchen, it's important to be sure your countertop complements your cabinetry and flooring, but is tough enough to withstand the daily activities of a busy home.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Hit the floor

2008-09-04T16:49:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Searching for solid ground? Check out these flooring options and find the most suitable surface for your home.

Laminate – A durable, fade and stain-resistant flooring that holds up to wear and tear. It comes in styles that mimic the look of wood, ceramic and natural stone tile.

Vinyl –For versatility, comfort and affordability, there's nothing better than vinyl. Resilient and easy to install, it comes in a vast array of colours, styles and patterns.

Porcelain –Highly stain, scratch and water-resistant. Porcelain is harder and denser than other tile products.

Marmoleum –Marmoleum is manufactured from a variety of natural and raw materials making it ideal for anyone with allergies or asthma.

Hardwood –There is simply no substitute for this classic. Hardwood is a tough, durable material that provides long-lasting quality and performance.

Bamboo –An eco-friendly floor that is durable, strong and dimensionally stable. Bamboo is a greener option, as it regenerates without the need for replanting.

Cork –Another eco-friendly option made from a raw material. This extremely resilient surface is easy to maintain, offers comfort, softens sound transmission and insulates against temperature changes.

More information about flooring options is available online at homedepot.ca.

Source: www.newscanada.com

The ‘Silent Killer’ continues to claim victims

2008-08-15T16:48:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Carbon monoxide continues to be the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in North America reports the Centers for Disease Control, yet the Hardware/Homecenter Research Institute found only 27 percent of homes have CO alarms. The lethal gas is undetectable to the human senses and is produced by any fuel-burning appliance, such as an oven, furnace, clothes dryer or fireplace. Because the gas is colorless, invisible and odorless, homeowners tend to ignore the possibilities of its presence.

"This stealthy killer claims more than 200 lives per year and accounts for several more emergency room visits and health-related injuries annually," states Raffi Nersesian, spokesperson for Kidde Safety Canada. According to a 1999 article published in Clinical Toxicology, a New Mexico study found that the use of CO alarms in homes could reduce the number of deaths by at least 50 percent.

Don't wait to protect yourself
"Consumers want to protect their loved ones, yet are so hurried by everyday life that unless they perceive the danger as imminent, they tend to neglect safety," says Nersesian.

Residential carbon monoxide (CO) alarms have come a long way since their introduction in the early 90's. Since then, there have been several major advances in sensors.

The most recent technology – electrochemical – has proven itself to be free from previous problems such as inaccurate readings due to temperature, humidity and quick deterioration of sensor materials. As a result, digital CO alarms, available in battery, plug-in or hardwire versions, are now capable of displaying accurate concentrations of this deadly gas if present in a home.

Since carbon monoxide is produced around the clock, it's likely that an alarm could awaken you at night when your thinking is cloudy. A combination smoke and CO alarm with a talking alert not only provides protection from two major hazards in one unit, it also uses voice technology to alert consumers about which threat is occurring.

"Seconds count and since many incidents happen at night when people are sleeping, the voice technology may help minimize confusion, contributing to a quicker escape," says Nersesian.

Units bearing the recently upgraded Canadian testing standard "CSA 6.19-01" indicated by a blue flame mark, assures long-term reliability of the sensor and readings. Additional benefits of digital include the ability to warn of low level concentrations, indicating a problem before harmful levels are reached and the unit alarms.

For more tips on protection and prevention, call toll free 1-800-565-1976, or visit www.SafeAtHomeTips.com.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Friendly home renovations

2008-08-10T18:17:00.000-07:00

(NC)—It's home renovation season in Canada! If you're thinking about a change, make your renovations about more than just dramatic colours and designer details: eco-friendly products can add life and value to your real estate, save money by reducing energy use, and even make your home a healthier place to live in.

Look for the Government of Canada's EcoLogo program symbol in purchasing products for your next project! The EcoLogo program verifies a product meets specific environmental leadership standards. There are over 7,000 products in Canada marked with EcoLogo, including home and building products. See www.ecologo.org for more details.

Paint the town green. Opt for paints and paint strippers that contain little or no solvents. For indoor jobs, use water- or clay-based paints to avoid releasing volatile organic compounds.

Sustainable flooring. If you want carpeting, make sure it's formaldehyde-free, and use a water-based adhesive for installation. Better yet, choose all-natural linoleum, durable hardwood, or new greener options such as rapidly renewable – or reclaimed – wood or cork (which can be harvested without damaging the tree).

Go natural. When shopping for new furniture, choose pieces made with water-based varnish or stain, or visit consignment or antique shops to bring new life to "gently used" furnishings.

Save your energy. Cut your energy costs by installing low-flow toilets, ENERGY STAR qualified appliances, dimmer switches, and ceiling fans. Update the insulation in your walls and attic and seal all gaps around fixtures, openings, doors and window frames with exterior caulk to keep your place cool through the summer months.

The Government of Canada's ecoENERGY Retrofit – Homes program provides home and property owners with grants of up to $5,000 to offset the cost of making energy efficiency improvements. The average grant is close to $1,000 and yields, on average, a 25 percent reduction in energy use and costs. More information is available at www.ecoaction.gc.ca/homes or by calling 1-800-622-6232 or TTY 1-800-926-9105.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Avoid back pain when gardening

2008-08-04T08:51:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Over 80 per cent of Canadians are spending time raking, pruning, and planting to make their curbs and backyards look beautiful. But, the pursuit of that perfect outdoor oasis often comes with a price – back pain.

Gardening is considered a leisure activity, but all that bending, stretching and lifting is more like a full-body workout. So, it comes as no surprise that Canada's favourite horticultural pastime often leads to muscle strain and sore joints.

To help avoid back pain this summer, here are some WEEDS that might actually be welcome in the garden:
• Warm up before you start. This will reduce the stress on your joints and muscles, decreasing the chance of injury.
• Elevate – sit on a low stool or bucket while gardening, alleviating stress from your back and knees. When raking, digging, hoeing or pruning change positions frequently and kneel to plant.
• Enlist help when lifting heavy objects and always bend your knees. If you are feeling any back pain, consider taking an over-the-counter medication. The Tylenol line of pain relievers, for example, deliver a combination of both pain and muscle relief.
• Drink plenty of fluids and take a break every 20 minutes. Taking a break and keeping hydrated gives your back a rest and replenishes your energy supply.
• Stretch once you've finished. Stretching improves circulation which in turn shortens recovery time of muscle injuries. Stretching also has the added benefit of increased flexibility, better posture and enhanced coordination.

Source: www.newscanada.com

Summer Entertaining: Cocktails to elevate the outdoor experience

2008-07-31T16:33:00.000-07:00

(NC)—With summer upon us, things are really starting to heat up. Even though we want to be outdoors enjoying the sun, we still have to keep cool. Whether at home, at the cottage or getting ready for a big night out, the perfect summer cocktails will help you chill in more ways than one. The latest drink trends go beyond traditional coolers and beer on your favourite patio and elevate the outdoor experience by creating unique refreshing tastes that represent your own personal flavour and style.

For the After Work Crowd
It's hot outside, and you've been stuck inside all day working. In less time than it takes to send out an email to your friends telling them when and where, you can put together a spontaneous cocktail party any night of the week. Specialty food shops and even well-stocked grocery stores have plenty of options that make it look like you have spent hours in the kitchen, but are actually quick and simple to make and serve. A specialty martini is the perfect accompaniment to chill in style after work on a hot summer's night. Try the Baileys Tartuffo – combine 1.5 oz. Baileys Original Irish Cream, 1/4 oz. Smirnoff Raspberry and 1/4 oz. Smirnoff Vanilla. Shake over ice and serve chilled in a martini glass. So easy, your friends will be talking about it all summer long.

For Those Who Prefer an Urban Oasis over the Cottage Congestion
This summer's hottest patio décor is taking the living room outside and creating the perfect cottage in the city atmosphere. Fire up the barbecue and grill some summer favourites. You can still wear your best dress while mixing up plenty of the perfect cottage and city partner – The Baileys Shiver. Simply blend your favourite Baileys Irish Cream liqueur flavour with a cup of ice and the day is complete. The only thing your friends (won't) miss is the long, hot drive up to the cottage.

For the Pre-Party Host
Make the most of a night out with friends and start at home with the latest new sensation - lavish cocktails - before hitting your favourite night spot. A well-stocked bar featuring Baileys Original Irish Cream, Baileys with a Hint of Mint Chocolate and Baileys with a Hint of Caramel ensures you can offer your friends their favourite flavour combination while adding a little luxury to the pre-party experience. As the perfect host, be sure to arrange for taxis in advance to get your friends to their next destination safely.

For the Under-Caffeinated
Can't make it through the day without your speciality coffee, but can't bare the thought of a hot drink when the mercury rises? The Baileys Chai Latte may be just the answer. Combine 1 oz. Baileys Original Irish Cream with 3/4 oz. Green Tea Syrup and 3/4 oz. milk and blend with a cup of ice and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

More recipe inspirations are available online at www.baileys.com.

Source: www.newscanada.com

How to green your cottage

2008-07-23T15:42:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Summer is here! This is the season when people go to the cottage to unwind and relax in the pleasures of nature. Making your cottage as energy efficient and environmentally friendly as possible is a great way to help ensure you can enjoy the great outdoors for years to come. Here are a few ways to make your experience at the cottage more environmentally friendly:

Building with FSC
The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is an internationally recognized organization that ensures that the wood you buy comes from sustainable, managed forests that have been logged in a responsible manner. By using wood that is certified by the FSC standard, you can ensure that the living forest will be preserved and maintained without hazardous pesticides and genetically modified trees.

Water Filtration System
The use of water-filtration systems at the cottage can be a great way to avoid using bottled water. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the use of a purification system can sterilize 99.99% of all harmful organic materials without the use of any chemical agents. A water filtration system can be an effective way to purify your water while helping to keep chemicals out of lakes and rivers.

Light Ideas
Replacing incandescent lights with compact fluorescent lights (CFL) has become a standard practice in many homes. Why not do the same for your cottage? According to the Office of Energy Efficiency, by switching to compact fluorescent bulbs, you can expect to use two-thirds less energy than conventional incandescent lights.

There are many lighting options for your cottage; solar powered light-emitting-diode (LED) bulbs are a popular choice. They can be used in both indoor and outdoor environments and will reduce the amount of electricity your lighting consumes. The use of solar power will not only reduce the number of batteries and chemical pollutants you discharge, but it will also save you money on your electricity bills.

Did You Know?
The CIBC ENVIRO-SAVER mortgage is a product that offers customers the ability to address energy and environmental savings at the cottage. With the CIBC ENVIRO-SAVER™ mortgage, customers will receive a certificate for up to $300 on a home energy audit and $2,500 in energy savings coupons.

"Conducting an energy audit on your cottage is a great way to ensure that it is energy efficient and environmentally sound. You may be able to save hundreds of dollars on your electricity bill without having to complete any major renovations" says Vikram Seth, CIBC Mortgage Specialist.

For more information on CIBC mortgages, visit your nearest CIBC branch, call 1 800 465-CIBC (2422) or visit www.cibc.com/mortgages.

Source: www.newscanada.com

How green is that spray paint?

2008-07-21T08:10:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Are you making purchases with the environment in mind? When choosing between two similar products, most consumers say they will choose the environmentally-friendly option. To help you make educated purchase decisions, manufacturers are providing more information about their sustainability practices and products on their websites and in other communications.

One example is Krylon, maker of spray paint for home décor and home improvement uses. Always an innovator, Krylon now uses sustainable raw materials such as soy in many of its spray paints. The company has made it a priority to reduce the amount of solvent in its paint formulations, and is taking many steps to reduce waste during manufacturing and distribution.
Here are some things users of spray paint might want to know:

CFCs and VOCs. Spray paints today contain no chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) propellants and have not for more than 30 years. The major manmade sources of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are associated with smog production, are vehicle emissions, combustion and industrial emissions. Consumer products are estimated to account for only a very small percentage of VOCs from manmade sources, with aerosols accounting for an extremely small amount.

Spray Paint Advances. Krylon's H20 Latex, the first 100% acrylic latex spray paint, contributes 55% less to smog pollution than most solvent-based spray paints. It can be safely sprayed indoors with ventilation.

Krylon's new EZ Touch 360° dial spray tip, on cans of Krylon indoor/outdoor spray paint and Krylon brushed metallic finishes, features the industry's first adjustable-direction fan-spray tip. It provides greater coverage per pass and reduced overspray compared to traditional spray paint tips.

Spray paint helps extend the life of home and yard items by freshening up their appearance. Krylon's Fusion for Plastic spray paint helps contribute to the reuse of plastics by allowing consumers to refresh old, worn plastic items with a new finish, so the amount of plastic waste flowing into landfills can be reduced.

Reusing and Recycling Materials. Empty cans of Krylon spray paint are recyclable, and new cans are made from more than 25% recycled steel. Each pound of recycled steel used saves 5,450 BTUs of energy in subsequent steel production, according to The Steel Recycling Institute.

The plastic caps on the cans are also completely recyclable, plus the caps for some products have been redesigned to use less plastic. These new caps carry a plastic resin identification code for easier recycling and can be packed in greater numbers per box, reducing fuel-related transportation costs.

- News Canada

Renovating your kitchen? Don't forget about the appliances

2008-06-30T14:25:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Every home renovation project is stressful, but there's no room in your house that invites more renovation stress than your kitchen. With a multitude of choices to make, from the design of the cabinets to flooring and light fixtures, it's no wonder this type of construction project often runs longer than anticipated.

And surprisingly, in the midst of all of this cosmetic planning, one of the most often overlooked elements of any kitchen renovation is the appliances. Just as dated and tacky-looking linoleum flooring needs to be updated, more often than not, the kitchen appliances may need an overhaul as well.

"Regardless of how much money you invest in a kitchen renovation, old and mismatched appliances simply ruin the over-all look," says Warner Doell, director of sales and marketing for the home appliance division of Samsung Electronics Canada. "Finding appliances that perform as well as they look is a paramount step in achieving a dream kitchen."

Doell offers the following tips when shopping for new kitchen appliances:
• Get a plan and budget – Before you put a hammer to your old kitchen, sit down and come up with a design concept and budget for the renovation. Make sure you have an idea of the size and dimensions of your kitchen appliances as they will affect your cabinetry layout. Do some research to determine an adequate budget for your appliance purchases. Remember it makes no sense to spend your entire budget on design elements when the appliances you use daily perform at a sub par level.
• Think uniformly – Think of your kitchen as an outfit and the appliances as accessories. It wouldn't make sense to mix and match shapes and colours. Today, many appliance manufactures offer complete kitchen line solutions – from over-the-range microwaves to refrigerators. For example, Samsung's full line of kitchen solutions – from French door refrigerators to dishwashers – not only look as good as they perform, but each piece was designed with similar handles and LED lighting so all the pieces match.
• Form and function is a must - From cooking holiday dinners to washing daily loads of dirty dishes, your kitchen appliances are constantly put to the test. Aside from looking great, kitchen appliances need to do the job well. Whether it's a range or a dishwasher, assess your needs and purchased accordingly.

More information on this topic is available online at www.samsung.ca.

- News Canada

Decorating tips for your laundry room

2008-06-21T14:34:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Traditionally tucked away in a dingy basement corner or stored in a hallway closet, laundry rooms are now finally getting the respect they deserve. And when you consider the amount of time and energy spent in the laundry room it's no wonder Canadians are finally tackling the laundry room to create inviting and well-designed spaces.

Keep the following tips in mind when remodelling a laundry room:
Location is Key: Many home owners are taking the laundry room out of basement and putting it in the middle of all the action – the second floor. Considering that most of the items being laundered will eventually be stored in bedroom closets and wardrobes, a second floor laundry room is convenient and practical. If you're concerned about laundry machine noise and vibration, consider purchasing a washer and dryer designed for second-floor laundry rooms such as Samsung's Platinum laundry line that features its exclusive vibration reduction technology.

It's Not Just About Laundry: Don't let the name fool you, today's laundry rooms are used more than just for laundry. Often doing double duty as a hobby or sewing room, homeowners are thinking about creating a laundry room that doubles as multifunctional work areas. When designing the space, consider how the room will be utilized and what solutions you need to keep the space clutter-free and organized.

Find Zen in Tight Quarters: Let's face it, between the washer and dryer, the hamper, and ironing board, space is limited. While most of us don't have spacious living room-sized laundry rooms, making use of vertical space is vital for taming laundry room chaos. Invest in sturdy shelving units or cabinets to store laundry room essentials such as fabric softener, detergent and bleach.

Laundry Room Star: Last but not least, an instant way to update the look of a tired laundry room is to upgrade the appliances. Trade in your old, white top-loading washer and dryer for an energy efficient front-loading pair in the colour of your choice. Appearance aside, look for a laundry pair with higher drum capacities so you can do more laundry in less time.

More information on this topic is available online at www.samsung.ca.

- News Canada

How to professionally finish any piece of wood in your home

2008-06-16T10:54:00.000-07:00

(NC)-Refinishing your wood floors, furniture and other woodwork is much easier than most people imagine – you just have to go about it one step at a time.

According to Eric Chaimberg of Swing Paints, Canada's leading manufacturer of wood finishing products, professional finishing results can be achieved if you follow several important steps.

Based on years of experience and know how, Chaimberg says the secret to a great finish is a good start. And the best way to ensure a good finish is by taking the time to prepare your surface properly.

Here is a host of items Chaimberg says you will need prior to beginning any project:
• Bristle or foam brushes
• Rags or cheese cloth
• Steel wool or synthetic Pads
• Gloves
• Drop cloth

Surface Preparation
For previously finished floors, Chaimberg recommends you use a cleaner, such as, Circa 1850 Furniture Cleaner to remove all dirt, grime, wax and polish from the wood. Any repairs that need to be done such as filling nail holes or dents should be completed after stripping but before sanding and staining. Remove dirt and grime with a vacuum cleaner and finally wipe down the surface with a damp cloth to eliminate all traces of dust.

Sanding
The next step is to lightly sand the wood to provide a smooth uniform surface. "Sand enough to obtain the desired finish smoothness yet not enough to gouge the wood or sand through the veneer," Chaimberg says. Stripping closes the grain of the wood to the penetration of stain and finish. Sanding reopens the grain, evens out any discoloration that may have been left by a previous stain, and erases any scratches or blemishes in the surface.

Finishing
To add a protective finish to your surface, Chaimberg recommends using Circa 1850 Fast Dry Bowling Alley Polyurethane. "Apply this clear finish to those tired old floors or that newly stripped flea market find and you'll appreciate how fast it dries," he added. "It dries so fast you can re-coat in as little as two hours. Imagine being able to apply three coats in just one day."
On unfinished wood, thin first coat with 10% mineral spirits. Stir contents thoroughly prior to and during application. Never shake the contents. Wipe or brush on a thin coat of Circa 1850 Bowling Alley Polyurethane using a lint-free cloth, a pure bristle brush or a lambskin applicator. Apply evenly with long strokes in the direction of the grain. Allow to dry for at least two hours and sand lightly using very fine sandpaper (220) or steel wool (0000). Remove all dust and apply a second coat as above. If a third coat is desired, re-sand and apply as above.

"Because of its non-yellowing clear formula, all you'll see is the beauty of the wood shining through," Chaimberg added. "And your wood surface will be protected with the same hard, durable finish used on bowling alleys." For more information or tips on finishing visit www.circa1850.com.

- News Canada

Exercise helps reduce arthritis pain

2008-06-09T08:29:00.001-07:00

(NC)—With winter behind us, many Canadians are jumping back into action. But for the over four million Canadians who are living with arthritis, that leap is a little more difficult. However, it's exactly what the doctor ordered! Research shows that for those living with arthritis, exercise not only decreases your pain, but also increases your flexibility and overall fitness.

Before you start pumping iron or running marathons, check out these tips to help ease you into a fitness program:
• Check with your doctor or physiotherapist to make sure the activity you're planning to take up isn't out of your league.
• More is not necessarily better. A program that is consistent and follows the motto, "slow and steady" is best – especially for beginners.
• Try setting aside a few minutes every day in the morning and before bed for range-of-motion and flexibility exercises.
• Include a "rest day" in your schedule. Aiming to exercise 30 to 60 minutes three days a week is best.
• If a joint is particularly painful, cut your program down to gentle range-of-motion exercises. You may want to apply ice to the joint before and after you exercise and take an over-the-counter medication containing acetaminophen. In particular, the Tylenol arthritis pain formulation has proven to be highly effective for arthritic pain relief and is safe to take alongside medications you are taking for other conditions.
• Observe the "two-hour" pain rule to avoid overdoing it. Muscle or joint pain that lasts more than two hours after exercise, or fatigue lasting into the next day, means you probably did too much too fast. But make sure this does not cause you to stop exercising — just exercise less strenuously or for a shorter time.

If all these tips aren't enough to motivate you, here is another way to look at it. Exercise is a chance to confront arthritis directly and maybe reclaim some favourite activities the condition has stolen from you. The trick is getting started and sticking with your program.

- News Canada

Make moving day manageable

2008-05-28T17:07:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Moving is stressful. Between the never-ending pile of boxes, endless to-do lists, and last-minute preparations – moving can be a rollercoaster that causes stress, headaches and back pain for even the most organized people.

To help take the edge off, here are some simple tips to make moving day manageable:
Create a checklist of everything that has to be done and its due date. Start the list up to two months before the move and keep the list on-hand so things can be added to it.

Start packing early. Start with non-essential items. Put heavier items in small boxes and lighter items in large boxes. This distributes the weight more evenly and reduces the risk of back pain. Remember to bend with your knees when lifting.

Pack a bag the day before the move with everything you'll need for the first 24 hours in the new house. Include clothes, towels, toiletries and a small first aid kit containing Band-Aids. And for headaches and back pain, include some over-the-counter pain relief, such as those in the Tylenol or Motrin line.

Enlist help. If you have family and friends who are able to lend a helping hand, take them up on the offer. Many hands make for light work, and can make the task of unpacking much more enjoyable.

For suggestions on managing your back pain and headaches, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

- News Canada

Six questions to ask your builder

2008-05-17T14:28:00.000-07:00

1. Has my new home been rated with an EnerGuide for New Houses label?
If the answer is "yes," congratulations on being informed about energy efficiency for new houses.

2. Will the building plans be evaluated by an EnerGuide for New Houses energy advisor to determine its level of energy efficiency?

3. Can you offer energy upgrades that I can purchase to improve the energy efficiency of my new home?

4. Can you estimate how much energy my new home will use once I move in?

5. Once my home has been built, will an independent energy advisor verify that the energy upgrades have been incorporated and will an air leakage test be performed to confirm my home's EnerGuide for New Houses rating?

6. Will I receive an EnerGuide for New Houses report and label once my house has been built?

The EnerGuide for New Houses initiative was developed by Natural Resources Canada's Office of Energy Efficiency to help homebuyers improve the energy efficiency of their new home before it is built. If you answered "no" to the above questions, contact the EnerGuide for New Houses initiative at 1 800 387-2000 or visit egnh.gc.ca for further information.

In addition, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation has announced a 10-percent refund on its mortgage loan insurance premium when a borrower buys or builds an energy-efficient home that has an EnerGuide for New Houses rating of 80 or more, or that has been R-2000 certified.

By using less energy in their home, homeowners can help reduce the greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. The Government of Canada is encouraging all Canadians to reduce their emissions by one tonne or 20 percent through the One-Tonne Challenge. Energy-efficient upgrades in a new home can save up to two tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.

- News Canada

Spring perfect time for home safety check

2008-05-12T08:45:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Spring's the perfect time for a safety clean-up to protect our families and our property. Start by checking each room of your house for unsafe conditions, including the attic and basement.

Remove all hazards. Check for frayed or damaged appliance cords, wiring, fuses or breakers and repair or replace them. Remove and recycle those stacks of papers and magazines. Check for water leaks, especially near electrical appliances. Make sure there's proper clearance between heating appliances and combustibles. Turn off the pilot flame in gas fireplaces. Test carbon monoxide or explosive gas alarms and ensure they are ideally located for the summer season.

Properly store flammable liquids and home chemicals Make sure that gasoline and cleaning fluids are well marked and out of reach from children and pets. Securely store dangerous tools, cleaners, chemicals, adhesives and paints according to their labels. Properly dispose of any that have expired, leak or look bad by taking them to your local recycling depot.

Check fire protection and safety equipment. This is important! Check your smoke alarms. Raffi Nersesian, spokesperson for Kidde Safety, an industry leader in fire and emergency equipment for the home, recommends checking the manufacture date on the product label. "Alarms older than 10 years should be replaced. Most importantly, make sure your smoke alarms work and have new batteries installed." Check fire extinguishers for proper type and placement. Make sure all doors and windows open easily for fast escapes. Verify that your street number is posted properly and is visible. Also have a working flashlight and battery-powered radio ready for possible power failures.

Plan your escape now. Sit down with your family and make sure that everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire. Ensure that you have two ways out of every room and that you have a meeting place outside the house for the whole family. Review how to use an emergency escape ladder if your home has a second or third floor.

Practice the plan! You can do a lot to protect yourself, your family and your property. A little time spent on simple common sense prevention will do a lot to make your house a safer place. For more ways that you can protect yourself all year long. Visit www.SafeAtHome.ca for more information.

- News Canada

Finding the perfect perennials for your garden

2008-05-05T09:56:00.000-07:00

(NC)-Creating a garden oasis can take some time and effort, but it's something that will leave you with a feeling of accomplishment and pride, as well as a beautiful garden.

Planting perennials is a great investment and an enjoyable way to achieve a garden that will bloom for several years. Perennial bulbs, plants, climbers and shrubs add colour and texture and come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and flowering times to keep your garden in bloom all season long. The lawn and garden team at Canadian Tire suggests these tips to help you get started with your garden this spring:
• Plant a mixture of perennials with annuals and flowering shrubs to stagger bloom times over the growing season.
• Plant perennials directly in the garden or in containers.
• Spring planting allows new plants time to establish strong root systems before winter.
• Keep the garden current with seasonal themes by planting window boxes and pots for the deck, patio or garden. In spring, try potted tulips, daffodils, crocus and pussywillow or forsythia branches. For summer, add miniature canna lilies, and dahlias, both of which are popular choices. For fall, mums, sedum, fall-blooming asters and ornamental grasses adapt well to containers.
• Perennials can be planted in full sun, partial sun or shady areas. Garden centres like Canadian Tire carry a wide range of perennials suitable for sun and shade garden locations. Read the care tag on each pot to determine the plant's best location.
• Newly planted perennials should be watered well. Mulch will retain soil moisture and control weeds. Fertilize new plantings with a transplant fertilizer (10-52-10) or Miracle-Gro Quick Start to help new plants establish better root systems.

The sunny garden
• Perennials that prefer full sun need six hours or more of direct sunlight.
• Low-maintenance sun-loving perennial options include irises, coneflowers, peonies, sedum, shasta daisies, phlox and ornamental grasses.
• Daylilies prefer full sun but will also thrive in partial shade and in a variety of soil types. These flowers last one day, continue blooming for about a month and are easy-care plants that last for years in the garden.
• Clematis is a flowering vine that produces an abundance of colourful blooms and creates a natural screen covering on walls, fences and trellises.

The shady garden
• Any site that gets less than six hours of direct sunlight is considered shady. A site that receives a few hours of morning or late afternoon sun but no direct midday sun is described as having partial shade.
• Perennials that prefer shade include hosta, astilbe, bleeding heart, lily of the valley, bee balm, anemone, periwinkle and ivy.
• Hostas are lush, tropical-looking plants that are tough and dependable for easy-care shade gardens. They are grown mainly for their variegated leaves and sizes. Flower colours include white, pink and lilac.
• Bleeding Heart is a great choice for an early blooming shade garden. Plant with spring bulbs and wildflowers for a striking spring display.

- News Canada

Home décor tips: Top 5 myths about exterior wood stain

2008-04-30T16:00:00.000-07:00

(NC)—According to stain experts there are certain common myths do-it-yourselfers fall victim to when it comes to exterior wood stain. Here are the top five traps to avoid for a perfect result from Dominique Pépin, Senior Brand Manager of Sico paints.

1. High-quality wood stains do not peel.
False. Regardless of the product used, if the surface is not prepared properly and the wrong application method is used, it could peel. Whether your wood was previously stained or not, you must start by washing the surface using a cleaner. It is important to remove loose grey wood fibres and stains caused by mildew, dust and moss since these contaminants will keep the stain from adhering properly.

If your wood was previously stained and the stain is uneven or peeling, Sico's strippers will be valuable tools to help you remove old layers of stain so that the new one can adhere properly. Also it's important to read each product's specific instructions found on the side of the label before starting the application.

2. New wood surfaces do not need to be sanded before staining.
False. To remove imperfections and prepare wood's pores to receive stain, the new wood surface must absolutely be sanded using 80-grit sandpaper. On vertical surfaces, use 120-grit sandpaper for a finer finish. Check that you have sanded enough by sprinkling a few drops of water onto the surface. If the water pearls, you must continue sanding; if the water penetrates the wood, the stain is ready to be applied.

3. Applying stain with a roller is much faster than with a brush.
False. Since wood floors warp with time, it becomes difficult to reach certain areas with a roller. A brush is therefore the best tool for applying stain evenly. There are specially designed brushes whose length and width allow for quick application. You can also attach the brush to the end of a long handle so that you can work standing up, in a comfortable position.

4. Although the manufacturer suggests applying two coats of stain, it is better to apply two more to ensure the wood is well-protected.
False. A coating that is too thick compromises one of stain's main advantages: its flexibility, which allows it to follow wood's movement without cracking or peeling.

5. Exterior stain can be applied on any nice summer day.
False. If it is warmer than 25ºC or if the surface to be stained is very hot to the touch, the stain will not have time to penetrate the wood deeply or blend with the former stain, which will lead to peeling. Furthermore, if the stain dries too quickly, it is difficult to apply and does not produce the desired finish, leaving behind brush marks and an uneven look.

"When it comes to your staining projects you now have plenty of options to harmonize or complement your outdoor surroundings," according to Pépin. In fact, Sico has developed a complete new line of high quality stains with completely new and very trendy colours for outdoor wood projects to help homeowners achieve today's modern look. More information and advice on wood stains and staining can be found at www.sico.ca.

- News Canada

Enhancing your home's curb appeal

2008-04-22T15:27:00.000-07:00

(NC)—After a long Canadian winter, many homes need a refresh. Paying attention to the exterior of your home is just as important as making a statement with your interior décor. The home décor team at Canadian Tire has put together the following tips to enable you to give the exterior of your home a fresh new look, easily and affordably.

Update exterior lighting: Exterior light can be stylish as well as functional. Design a well-lit path by adding a lantern or pagoda-style lighting. With so many beautiful finishes available - pewter, stainless-steel and copper, to name a few - exterior lighting can add an attractive and luminous glow to your front yard or garden. Solar-powered lighting, available at Canadian Tire, is an eco-friendly option that will enable you to light up your home while saving money.

A fresh coat of paint: If the current paint colour of your exterior is starting to fade, a new coat of paint can immediately brighten the exterior look of your home. Consider a neutral shade for your home's exterior and use more vibrant colours for trim and accents for a soothing and harmonious look. Alternatively, if you don't want to paint the entire exterior of your home this year, you can simply spruce up your home's curb appeal by giving the doors, shutters or trim a fresh coat of paint.

Accent your address: House numbers can be an area where you can have some fun and experiment with different styles. For example, instead of traditional gold-plated numbers, look for numbers using trendy fonts, colours and backgrounds or try a plaque featuring coloured tiles to add some interest.

Flower Power: Choose textured outdoor planters and fill with vibrant coloured flowers, such as geraniums, petunias or snapdragons. Place planters on either side of the front door for a welcoming and fresh look. Alternatively, add brightly painted window boxes and plant small flowers that contrast the exterior contrast of your home to make the window boxes stand out.

- News Canada

Creating a community playground

2008-04-18T15:29:00.001-07:00

(NC)—Does your neighbourhood school, church, daycare centre, zoo or park need a children's playground? Getting a team of community volunteers to organize, plan and complete the project is a great idea for several reasons. For one, volunteer-built projects are valued at 2-3 times their actual cost; and working together gives individuals in the community a unique opportunity to collectively give something for everyone's benefit, a key element of a healthy and supportive community.

Here are some key things to consider:
• Timeline: On average, a community playground project will take anywhere from 6 to 8 months to complete—from design stage right up to final construction.
• Consult the children: It is crucial that children for whom the playground is being built have an opportunity to express their needs and expectations before designs are drawn up.
• Fundraising: Consider fiscal sponsorship under a pre-existing non-profit organization such as the Rotary Club or Kiwanis Club.
• Pull in local expertise: A well-organized, dynamic leadership group can organize and oversee fundraising, volunteer recruitment and obtain playground materials and design expertise.
• Potential Sites: Select one or two that have good visibility, shade, access to existing utilities and which can be easily supervised.
• Materials and Tools: Try to get as many things donated as possible.
• Volunteers: They don't have to be highly-skilled but as a group, they'll need to have various skills and much enthusiasm. And you'll need a small army!
• Celebrate: Throw a playground opening-day party and expect a lot of hugging, whooping, back-slapping and even a few tears.

For more information on how to stay healthy, and prevent disease and injury, visit www.canadian-health-network.ca, a collaboration of the Public Health Agency of Canada and major health organizations across Canada.

- News Canada

Organic growing: An old idea, but a good one

2008-04-10T08:30:00.000-07:00

(NC)-Many of the new materials we have available to us as gardeners are the result of advances made in the field of agriculture. In the past 100 years, the world's farmers have been faced with the challenge of feeding a growing global population, at the same time as urban development has reduced the amount of land available for growing crops.

To meet the challenge, farmers had to find a way to get more food out of fewer acres. They've succeeded, by using technology to its fullest. Tractors replaced horses, and machinery and chemicals replaced a great deal of backbreaking labour. Many of these advances were also adopted by home gardeners.

A look at growing things... before 20th century technology
In 1881, an Ontario Agricultural Commission reviewed some of the methods farmers were using to improve crop yields. Even back then, growers knew they had to keep replenishing the nutrients in the soil, or crop yields and quality would eventually dwindle.

Many farmers were looking at ways to use manure more effectively. Some of the more innovative farmers were even experimenting with natural resources such as gypsum, bone dust and phosphates, which all showed promising yield-enhancing ability.

Issues such as chemical residue in produce, ground water contamination and soil depletion were a long way in the future.

A lot changed in just 100 years...but a lot remains the same
Now, many farmers and gardeners are taking a step back, and re-examining early growing practices. Some are willing to trade a little yield for a different kind of crop quality; one that's also good for the health of the consumer, the soil and the environment.

Growing organically, without losing what we've learned
Modern agriculture has brought many scientific advances that are of tremendous value, even for organic growing. For example, we can now predict quite accurately which nutrients various plants will need in order to maintain healthy growth. The primary ones are Nitrogen which encourages green plant growth, Phosphorus which is used by plants to produce strong roots and boosts flower, fruit and vegetable production, and Potassium which increases overall plant strength, disease resistance and hardiness. Other minor nutrients (like iron, magnesium, zinc and copper) are also important for balanced growth; a shortage of just one essential nutrient can severely restrict plant growth.

A simple soil test tells how much of these nutrients is available in the garden soil. It's then just a matter of adding any extra nutrients required to maintain healthy, balanced plant growth. Often, these needs can be met with organic fertilizers.

Today's organic fertilizer choices
When many gardeners think of organic fertilizers, they think of manure. But while manure is very good for improving soil texture and organic content, it often lacks the essential nutrients plants need.

Compost is excellent for improving the organic content of the soil, and contributes valuable nutrients. Use compost as much as you can. If you don't have your own, give Green Earth Premium Organic Compost a try.

Excellent quality organic fertilizers are also available from your local garden centre. The Green Earth line is one example: It offers natural ingredients like bone meal, gypsum and blood meal that have been proven to meet the nutritional needs of growing plants.

Don't overlook "conventional" fertilizers in your search for organic plant nutrition. Some of these, such as the Golden Vigoro line, are formulated in an organic base, and contain higher levels of Nitrogen needed by growing lawns. Avoid brands that contain little or no controlled-release nitrogen.

- News Canada

Five easy steps to earth friendly gardening

2008-04-09T13:28:00.000-07:00

(NC)—What better way to celebrate spring than by creating a beautiful, eco-friendly garden. With a few simple practices and some help from the latest innovative gardening products you can enjoy your own private oasis and do what is right for the environment too. Consider the following "green" gardening suggestions from The Home Depot Canada:

1. Cut Out the Chemicals
Wean your garden off all synthetic fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides. These substances promote rapid but weak plant growth, destroy soil fertility and are toxic to humans, wildlife and beneficial insects. Even organic chemicals are toxic, so use them as a last resort.

2. Use Water Wisely
To reduce water use, amend container soil with SoilSpongeTM, an all natural soil conditioner that adds up to 7 days between waterings. Disconnect your downspouts from the sewer system and direct water into garden beds or a rain barrel. "It is good practice to use soaker hoses instead of sprinklers, and water early in the morning," says John Mansz, The Home Depot Canada's gardening expert.

3. Feed Your Soil Naturally
Plants thrive in healthy soil. Add compost or composted manures to your soil early in the spring, whenever you plant or transplant, and again in mid-summer. "Compost adds organic matter to the soil, aids in water retention and promotes biological activity," says Mansz.

4. Choose an Alternative to Peat Moss
A peat bog is a highly specialized ecosystem that removes carbon dioxide from the air, is home to many rare and important plant and animal species and acts as a cleansing watershed filter. Damage from the removal of peat from bogs takes hundreds of years to heal. New PeatEliminatorTM, made from cocofibre, a coconut byproduct, improves drainage, soil aeration and friability and is the ideal pH for nutrient uptake. (Available at leading garden centres including The Home Depot.)

5. Mulch, Mulch, Mulch, and Mulch Some More
A thick layer (8-10cm) of shredded bark, bark chips, grass clippings or shredded leaves spread on top of your garden soil will retain moisture, deter weeds and add needed organic matter to the soil. "Spread mulch in the spring after the soil thaws and again in late fall after the soil begins to freeze," says Mansz "Keep mulch 8 cm away from plant stems."

For more eco-friendly gardening tips, visit The Home Depot's Garden Centre in your local community.

- News Canada

Healthy lawns - why they matter

2008-04-09T13:26:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Lawns, turf and large, open green spaces, such as, parks, golf courses and sports fields are critical to our environment – especially in urban areas. They contribute to our quality of life in many important ways:

• Cleaning the air by neutralizing pollutants and trapping dirt, dust and other airborne particles
• Keeping us cool – the front lawns of eight average homes have the cooling effect of 70 tons of air conditioning – the equivalent of central air for 23 average-sized homes!
• Reducing noise levels by 20 to 30 per cent – in cities
• Diminishing soil erosion and flooding by absorbing rainwater
• Recharging our groundwater supply by reducing run-off to impermeable surfaces, such as roads, sidewalks, parking lots and patios.

Remember the healthier the lawn, the bigger the pay-off! The lawn care experts at Scotts Canada offer homeowners a number of tips to help keep their lawns healthy this season:

Seeding
• prepare the soil properly and keep seed moist after planting
• buy quality seed, such as Scotts Pure Premium for a quick germinating, thicker, weed-free lawn. Cheaper brands and no-name products often contain weeds.

Fertilizing
• select a quality fertilizer and read package labels noting type, application timing and proper usage – usually one application in Spring and another in Fall is sufficient
• choose slow nitrogen release fertilizers for consistent, controlled feeding that promotes strong root development

Mowing
• keep mower blades sharp and don't cut too short – never cut more than 1/3 the length of the grass blades in a single mowing
• mowing once a week is usually sufficient
• allow grass cuttings, if not too heavy, to remain on the lawn and decompose, providing valuable nutrients for your lawn

Watering
• watering in the morning is ideal before the sun overheats your lawn; watering after dusk promotes fungus
• soak well every 3-4 days for 30-40 minutes rather than a daily sprinkling to promote deeper roots and a more drought resistant lawn
• increase watering if you note a silvery blue tinge to the grass or if the grass doesn't spring back when you walk across it.
Visit Health Canada's www.healthylawns .net or call Scotts' 1-800-543-TURF hotline for more information about healthy lawn maintenance.

- News Canada

Think safety first for outdoor power equipment

2008-04-08T16:04:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Whether your yard is large or small, basic preparations must be taken every time you use outdoor power equipment. A few simple steps will help keep you safe and your equipment running smoothly.

Mark Michaels, handheld products manager at Husqvarna, recommends that you perform the following tasks to help ensure that your projects are completed safely and efficiently.

• Check your work area for sticks, rocks, toys, and other items that could damage your equipment or become projectiles if you hit them during operation.
• Know your machine – where the controls are, what they do and what safety features are provided.
• Dress properly for the job. Wear long pants (and protective chaps for chainsaw use), long-sleeved shirts, closed toe shoes or work boots, and ear and eye protection.
• Fill up your gas tank in an outside area. Keep the gasoline in an approved container and stored in a well-ventilated area.
Safety should also be your foremost consideration while you are operating your equipment.
• Keep children and pets away from the work area. Never allow children to operate a push mower or sit on a riding mower – even with an adult.
• Watch out for potential hazards such as electrical lines, low hanging tree limbs, standing water, and adjacent streets or roadways.
• Always keep your hands and feet away from moving parts. Turn off the engine before working on any moving components. When working on mower blades or belts, the sparkplug should also be disconnected.
• Never mow a lawn or trim bushes when the yard is wet – the chance of slipping is higher and wet grass clogs the cutting deck faster.

Outdoor power equipment can be a convenient tool for helping your lawn look great, but these machines need to be operated carefully. Follow these guidelines to ensure your safety and get maximum productivity from your equipment.

For more information, visit www.husqvarna.com, or call 1-800-HUSKY-62 to locate a dealer near you.

- News Canada

Gardening today: The water garden trend

2008-04-08T16:02:00.000-07:00

(NC)—What's the fastest growing outdoor past-time? If you answered building water gardens and ponds you're probably one of the countless Canadians already hooked on this growing trend.

Water gardens are "extremely trendy" these days, according to Scott Rhodes, product manager for Laguna, a manufacturer and distributor of pond products based in Montreal.

In Canada, the market for water garden products is growing by an estimated 20% every year. Retail sales for all pond-related items are pegged at approximately $40 million, with garden centres, big box stores and pet shops selling the lion's share.
"It's often an outgrowth of gardening, spurred by an increasing number of gardeners who want to branch out and take it to a new level," says Rhodes.

A water garden—complete with running water, colorful Koi and thriving plants—infuses a splash of life to an otherwise static garden environment, notes the pond expert.

He advises that while ponds can be relatively easy to build, you should do your homework to avoid costly mistakes. Done right, water gardening can bring many visual rewards.

Rhodes—who keeps an ornate 20-gallon, container-type water garden in his office, complete with plants, fancy goldfish, and Japanese bamboo spitter—says you can build them in a variety of shapes and sizes, it all depends on space, imagination, and your credit card limit.

For instance, apartment dwellers or people with limited real estate can create one in a barrel, for as little as a few hundred dollars. It can be placed on a patio or deck and moved indoors in the winter.

Those with expansive backyards have the luxury of building larger in-ground ponds with fountains and waterfalls that can set you back several thousand dollars. In either case, building a water garden is certainly something you can do yourself, provided you keep a few basic principles in mind. Your best resources for detailed information are retailers specializing in water gardens. For more expert advice and tips on building a pond and Laguna pond products visit www.hagen.com.

- News Canada

Five fabulous fix-ups for the bathroom

2008-04-07T09:10:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Spring is the perfect time to refresh, renew and rejuvenate your home. The family bathroom is a good place to start, because it is usually one of the smallest, most frequently used rooms in the house. Try one (or all!) of these Five Fabulous Fix-ups to lift your bathroom to new heights of style:

1. Paint. An affordable way to achieve a completely new look is with a fresh coat of paint. A crisp spring colour such as pale yellow or green will make the room feel light and airy. Remember to choose mildew-resistant paint for easy clean up and maintenance.
2. Lighting. New wall sconces or overhead lighting is another cost-effective option. Keep window coverings simple – faux-wood horizontal blinds work well and look natural – to allow lots of natural light to fill the room.
3. Accessories. The latest trend in bathroom accessories is a wall-mounted vase for fresh flowers – perfect for a small spring bouquet. Add a matching wall-mounted toothbrush holder, towel bar and paper holder for a polished, professionally decorated look.
4. Faucets. A new faucet will add personality to your bathroom and is one of the best – and easiest – investments you can make when freshening up your bathroom. Don't just choose any old faucet – quality does count! Moen faucets all come with a lifetime warranty against drips, leaks and defects, and the company's patented MPACT valve technology ensures hassle-free faucet changes in the future.
5. Hardware. From seashells to bamboo, there are lots of choices for drawer pulls and knobs to keep your décor theme tied together right down to the very last detail. Be adventurous when choosing the finish and design to add an extra special touch and bit of fun.

For more decorating ideas, visit www.moen.com.

- News Canada

Features to consider when buying a trimmer

2008-04-07T09:09:00.000-07:00

(NC)—To keep your lawn looking great, a gas-powered trimmer can be an invaluable tool. When it's time to purchase a trimmer, you should base your decision on the best match between your needs and the product features that are available.

According to Mark Michaels, handheld products manager at Husqvarna, your local equipment dealer can be a helpful resource in the selection process. In addition, Michaels offers a list of considerations that will help you find a model that effectively meets your needs.

1. Good power: trimmers with 0.9 horsepower or higher will handle thicker grasses and weeds. Make sure the trimmer starts easily and accelerates rapidly for maximum efficiency.
2. Low weight: a lighter trimmer causes less fatigue, so compare the weight with the power to determine a favorable ratio for your application.
3. Shaft configuration: a curved shaft is most common for homeowner use with its lower cost and lighter weight; a straight shaft trimmer, designed for more demanding jobs, is easier for reaching under hedges and bushes.
4. Vibrations: the unit should have an efficient vibration-reduction system to make it easier to control and less tiring to operate.
5. Comfortable operation: make sure the trimmer is easy for you to handle, with ergonomically designed controls.
6. Emissions: the engine should have some form of emission control, for the benefit of your working environment as well as your neighborhood.

In addition, take into consideration the size of your yard and how often you'll be using the trimmer. By evaluating all of these factors, you'll be prepared to make a well-informed decision when purchasing a new trimmer.

For more information, visit www.husqvarna.com, or call 1-800-HUSKY-62 to locate a dealer near you.

- News Canada

Insulation essentials

2008-04-07T07:57:00.000-07:00

(NC)—"Many homeowners realize the importance of insulation – especially when completing energy upgrades – but few often understand how exactly it works. Learning a few facts and terms can help you impress your neighbours and make the most of your home renovations," says Mark Geres, Insulation Expert, Owens Corning Canada.

Remember R-value
R-value refers to insulation's resistance to heat flow. Insulation is comprised of tiny air pockets, which deny the passage of heat – preventing inside heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter. The higher the insulation's R-value, the greater its insulating power. For example, Owens Corning's Celfort 200 Extruded Polystyrene Insulation has an R-value of R-5 per inch. Refer to local building codes, manufacturer's literature, or your local dealer's recommendations for minimum insulation levels.

Conduct quick calculations
The amount of insulation you need depends on the size of your project. Use this easy calculation to determine the number of insulation packages you need to complete your project:
• Multiply the wall or attic length times width to determine total square footage to be installed.
• Measure the distance between joists or wall framing to determine the correct insulation width for the job. (15" or 23")
• Choose the appropriate insulation product (R-value and width) for your insulation project.
• Divide the total square footage to be insulated by the square footage per package. Round up to the next whole number to determine the total number of packages required.

Consider possible condensation
Higher R-values will not lead to condensation problems, as long as insulation is properly installed. Proper ventilation, vapour barriers and air sealants all work to help prevent condensation.

Always add a vapour barrier
A vapour barrier is any material located on the warm side of the insulation that keeps condensation from forming on a cold surface. It prevents the movement of moisture into walls. 6 mil polyethylene acts as an excellent barrier and is available where insulation is sold.

For more information on insulation, call Owens Corning at 1-800-GET-PINK or visit www.owenscorning.ca.

- News Canada

Outdoor lighting

2008-04-07T07:56:00.001-07:00

(NC)—You should be aware that leaving outdoor lights on all night for convenience or security reasons may entail substantial electricity costs.

If you want to use less electricity but still have appropriate lighting, there are a number of possible solutions.
Motion detector for outdoor lighting

• For outdoor security lighting, a motion detector is just the thing. It automatically turns on lights when the sensor picks up motion and turns them off when the sensor no longer detects motion over a certain period of time.
• Sensors are always combined with a photoelectric cell that detects natural lighting and prevents lights from going on during the day. That way, you save energy.
Timer for outdoor lighting
• A timer is another device that controls how long lights stay on and off.
• Timers can considerably reduce the amount of electricity used for outdoor lighting by turning on lights only when they are needed and only for a limited time.
• Don't forget that a 100-W lightbulb left on 24 hours a day costs $60 a year in electricity.
Compact fluorescents
• Replacing incandescent lightbulbs with compact fluorescents (designed for outdoor use) is an efficient way to save electricity. Compact fluorescents use up to 75% less electricity and last up to 10 times as long as standard incandescent bulbs of equivalent light power. This makes them especially suitable for hard-to-reach places.

You can find out how much this solution would save you by completing the ENERGY WISE Home Diagnostic. Call 1 800 363-7443, or (514) 363-7443 in the Montréal region, for your questionnaire or go to www.hydroquebec.com/ residential to do the online Diagnostic and obtain your recommendations report immediately.

Along with your recommendations report, you'll get a promotional leaflet containing information about discounts on electronic thermostats and other energy-saving products from our manufacturer and retailer partners.

- News Canada

Carpet - it's more than you thought

2008-03-26T15:29:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Have you been to a carpet store lately? Today's carpet is so much more than you may remember from past years. Nowadays, carpet makes an important fashion statement and functions as a key design element in contemporary décor. Wall-to-wall broadloom offers numerous inherent benefits and remains one of the most popular floor coverings in the marketplace.

Designers recommend the floor should be the starting point of home decorating, calling it the "fifth wall", and are looking at today's carpet to offer the optimum aesthetic appeal backed by inherent natural benefits. "Carpet, more than ever, is a wonderful design medium that provides unlimited decorating options to explore. Innovations in yarn and manufacturing technology offer the very latest in contemporary carpet pattern, texture and colour with the optimum performance characteristics required for today's busy lifestyle" says Leslie Beaumont, Director of Marketing for Beaulieu Canada, Canada's largest carpet manufacturer.

The latest carpet fibre and manufacturing technology has created a multitude of choices in texture, colour and design with enhanced performance characteristics. Depending on your needs, a few key features to look for in a carpet are soil resistance, stain resistance and anti-static. Soil resistant carpet helps repel dust and dirt, and is great for high traffic areas. Stain resistance allows for easy clean up of most common household spills and works well in dining rooms and nurseries. Carpet with a high anti-static rating decreases the electric shocks that may occur when walking across the floor and can be an important feature in family rooms or home offices.

Because of the nature of the textile, carpet itself has many inherent natural benefits. Carpet provides more comfort underfoot than any other floor covering available. It is soft on feet, helps reduce leg and back fatigue and prevents slips. The physical properties of carpet make it an effective insulator against cold, which can reduce the cost of home heating and air conditioning, by increasing the R-value of the carpeted area. And, carpet absorbs and contains noise offering more peace, quiet and privacy from room to room.

One of the more unknown benefits of wall-to-wall carpeting is that it actually helps to improve indoor air quality. A new DAAB (German Allergy and Asthma Society) study proves that indoor fine dust particle levels are reduced by carpet in a room. Carpet is beneficial, as a natural filter, in trapping and immobilizing potential allergy-causing particles settling on the floor surface, preventing them from re-entering the indoor air system, if the carpet is regularly cleaned and properly maintained.

Wall-to-wall carpeting offers much more than you thought. Carpet is a great decorating medium, has inherent natural benefits, and will match your pocketbook as the least expensive floor covering per square foot. You can find out more about carpet benefits and decorating options online at www.yourhomestyle.ca. or at a store near you.

- News Canada

Solutions for Spring meltdown

2008-03-26T15:28:00.001-07:00

(NC)—The change in season can lead to many avoidable water problems in your home and garden, but by taking precautions early on in spring you can keep from getting waterlogged. Here are a few tips from The Home Depot Canada to get your home ready for the Spring thaw:

Restore rain gutters – During a storm, rain gutters drain water and additional runoff away from the house. By ensuring that gutters are clear to do their job you protect siding, windows, doors and foundations from water damage and help prevent flooding in the basement. First, scoop out loose debris, like leaves, then blast out the gutters with a hose. Clear any obstructions in drainpipes to maintain water flow, repair leaks and re-align sagging gutters.

Keep shovelling – Water from melting snow may result in a wet basement if allowed to run down along the basement wall. Moving the snow just three to five feet from the house will reduce water problems.

Avoid a muddy yard – Keep the ground surrounding your home from retaining too much moisture by removing snow from around the yard, minimizing soft, wet soil conditions. A 10-foot high pile of snow contains about 2,600 gallons of water and can easily flood a yard on a warm day. Flooding can be avoided by moving the snow to well drained areas.

Rake away – Use a rake to remove all winter debris from your lawn. This allows it to breathe and prepares it for any reseeding or repair.

Air it out – Aerate your lawn by poking holes over the surface with a garden fork. This allows water to penetrate deeper in the lawn soil and reduces the need to water during the drier months.

Fertilize with care – There's no need to fertilize your lawn if it appears well after the winter, especially if you've fertilized in the Fall. Over fertilizing your lawn in the Spring causes the grass to experience top growth at the expense of root growth.

There are more tips on maintaining your home and garden online at www.homedepot.ca.

- News Canada

Gearing up for garden season

2008-03-26T14:53:00.001-07:00

(NC)—Lawn and garden season is upon us and it's time to give your tools a tune, a clean and in some instances, an upgrade. Remember, your lawnmower and garden tools have been sitting idle for months and may be in need of some TLC before being put to use. Consider these lawnmower and garden tool maintenance tips from The Home Depot Canada:
Step-by-Step Lawnmower
Maintenance:

1) Disconnect and change your sparkplug: If the plug isn't corroded or damaged, you may be able to clean and reuse it – but it's always good custom to replace the old plug to keep your mower running smoothly. To change a sparkplug, loosen it with a plug wrench.

2) Change your air filter: One of the most common sources of lawnmower problems is the air filter. To change the filter, simply remove the cover and pull the filter out then shake or blow out any debris. If the old filter is noticeably dirty, you should consider replacing it with a new one.

3) Lubricate your wheels: Keep your wheels in good working order by lubricating them with automotive grease. Use a ratchet and socket to remove the wheel and be sure to smear some grease on the axle before putting the wheel back in place.

4) Sharpen your blade: Check your mowers blades periodically for nicks and dents. If the blade becomes dull, you can sharpen it yourself with a little careful handling. Use a block of wood to help hold the blade still. Wear leather gloves and hold the blade in place while spraying the nut with penetrating lubricant. Then, use a ratchet to turn the retaining nut counterclockwise. Once you have the blade in hand, put on your safety glasses and sharpen it with a file or a metal grinder.

5) Check your cable: To keep your cables from wearing out lubricate them with dry graphite.
Garden tool-care tips:

1) Keep them clean: To keep your garden tools in top notch condition, try and keep them clean and dirt-free after each use. Lightly oil any metal parts of the tool.

2) Rust be gone: If your garden tools are rusty, simply take some sandpaper and scrub the rust off. Then dip your metal tools in a bucket of sand and oil, such WD-40 or motor oil, to prevent future rust.

3) Oil and sharpen: To keep plant cutters sharp and malleable, lubricate the screws and bolts and sharpen the blades regularly.

4) Coat the handles: Tools with wooden handles can either be stained or varnished to prevent wear and tear, or coated with spray-on rubber.

For more lawnmower and garden tool maintenance tips, visit The Home Depot in your community.

- News Canada

Top ten essential gardening tools

2008-03-26T14:52:00.001-07:00

(NC)—With so many gardening tools on the market today, Canadians can become frustrated trying to determine which ones they truly need. Whether you're just starting out or you're an experienced gardener, The Home Depot Canada offers a list of essential tools to help you enjoy time spent beautifying your yard.

Pruner. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes for simple to complex cutting. If you're looking for a strong multi-purpose pruner, go for the bypass model.

Rake. This is wonderful tool for removing debris left over from the winter thaw and for the Fall. Consider a metal rake. Their teeth last longer than plastic or wooden ones.

Shovel. A hand shovel is useful for smaller gardening jobs. Select one with a comfortable handle. A long-handed spade shovel with a pointed blade is necessary for moving soil, digging holes and planting.

Cultivator. These hooked tools come with three to five prongs and are ideal for loosening, mixing and aerating soil. Cultivators 12 to 18 inches long will do the job.

Edger. Beautify the edges of your garden and lawn with this tool. Select one with a long-handle so you can create the shapes you want without getting down on your hands and knees.

Broom. Sweep away grass and debris from your sidewalk, patio and driveway with a long-handled push broom. Select one that is at least 18 inches wide.

Wheelbarrow. Make it easy to carry supplies, dirt and other rubble around the yard with a wheelbarrow. Ensure the size of the wheelbarrow is one that you can easily handle when it's fully loaded.

Hose. Rejuvenate your yard's treasures regularly with water from a hose. Choose a durable hose that is reinforced with a mesh layer. Consider using a watering device that covers a large surface area such as a watering wand.

Gloves. Keep your hands clean with a pair of cotton gardening gloves for basic gardening tasks. If you're working in muddy territory or spraying pesticides, wear gloves made to protect you from harsh elements and chemicals.

Safety glasses. Protect your eyes from debris and the sun with safety glasses. They now come in fashionable styles, sizes and colours.

For more gardening tool tips, visit your local The Home Depot store.

- News Canada

Ten easy ways to green your home.

2008-03-21T11:42:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Fixing up the house is always fun, whether you're freshening up your bedroom with a new coat of paint or installing brand-new windows in the kitchen. But the next time you're thinking about home improvement, consider going green. Environmentally friendly products are cost effective (contributing to lower energy bills), they're on the cutting edge of design and, of course, they help keep our planet healthy.

Here are 10 easy ways to green your home, courtesy of The Home Depot Canada:

1. Ceiling fan
Everyone knows a ceiling fan cools a room in Summer, but in fact, a ceiling fan can be used year-round. During the winter, reverse the motor and air-flow to a clockwise direction to produce an updraft that pushes warmer air near the ceiling down into the room. Eco Options fans also use energy-efficient motors and advanced blade design to move more air with less power.

2. Bamboo blinds
Bamboo is one of the most environmentally friendly woods you can find, since unlike trees, it grows very quickly. Some blinds are made of woven bamboo wood that have separate pull cords for child safety. The slats are easily trimmed with a fine tooth saw, and can be cleaned by dusting with a soft brush or lightly vacuuming.

3. CFL light bulbs
Compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) use a different, more advanced technology than incandescent light bulbs to provide warm, inviting and lasting light. CFL bulbs —typically use 75 per cent less energy and last up to 10 times longer than incandescents.

4. FSC wood
Canada might have lots of trees, it's true, but we still need to look after them. That's where the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) comes in. FSC-certified wood guarantees that the manufacturer is committed to using lumber from forests that are managed in such a way that protects forests' productivity, ecology and biodiversity.

5. Washing machines
Not only do ENERGY STAR-approved washers use less power, but front-loading models also use 30 to 50 per cent less water. Front-loading washers also extract more water in the spin cycle, so your clothes spend less time in the dryer, which equals more energy savings.

6. Windows
Roughly a quarter of a typical home's heat loss occurs through doors and windows. However, if you install Eco Options, ENERGY STAR-certified windows, you can cut your heating costs by up to 12 per cent. Replacing older, less-well-insulated windows will also help to minimize air leaks.

7. Water aerator
Installing a water aerator on a high-use faucet, such as in the kitchen or bathroom sink, is a simple and cost-effective way to cut down on your water use (and energy bills, if it's hot water) without noticing the difference. The aerator pumps air into the stream of water to increase the water pressure without actually using more water, reducing your water use by 25 to 50 per cent.

8. Drapery liner
Even if you don't see them, drapery liners can give your curtains that nice, finished look. They also insulate the room (reducing your energy bill) and block out noise and light, so you'll have a better night's sleep.

9. Low VOC paint
Most paints contain chemical solvents that invisibly drift into the air, sometimes long after the "paint smell" has gone away. These microscopic particles can affect the quality of the air inside your home. For a healthy indoor environment, choose paints that are low in volatile organic compounds (VOC), which emit fewer pollutants, have almost no odour and are more durable than other finishes.

10. Room deodorizer
Why use a room deodorizer that just layers one odour on top of existing ones? Specialty deodorizers can attract and absorb all organic and chemical-based odours without giving off any scent itself. They're made from a naturally occurring mineral and are non-toxic and safe for use in the kitchen and around children and pets. Once you start updating your home with green products you'll find it's easy and affordable. In fact, you'll also find that, once you start going green, it will be hard to stop.

- News Canada

Add value to your home

2008-03-12T15:19:00.001-07:00

(NC)—Disposable fashion is fine for adding a new accessory to a classic wardrobe, but when it comes to their homes, Canadians want value – investments that will offer years of increased pleasure and increase their homes' worth when the time comes to sell. Five tips for adding value to a home:

1. Consider Your Surroundings
You are unlikely to make friends or add resale value to your house by making it outshine your neighbors'. When it comes time to sell, potential buyers might not appreciate your lavish, lined silk draperies. A better solution is to choose a window fashion classic such as Hunter Douglas Silhouette window shadings (1-800-265-1363; www.hunterdouglas.ca). They are elegant on their own and also work well with side panels.

2. Update Your Kitchen
Appraisers advise that a kitchen should have serviceable countertops, high-quality flooring and, if possible, an open view to another room. A window above the sink is always a big plus, as it provides homeowners with a view to the outdoors at a place where they tend to spend a lot of time.

3. Light Can Change Everything
It has been scientifically proven that light affects our moods and health. Sometimes something as simple as changing your light bulbs can make a big difference. Bulbs such as GE Reveal bulbs filter out dull, yellow rays to enhance your surroundings. And when natural light is available, window fashions put you in charge of this vital resource. Some, such as Silhouette shadings and Duette honeycomb shades from Hunter Douglas, provide softly diffused light that relaxes the mind and body.

4. Modernize Your Bathrooms
A master bathroom, especially with a spa or whirlpool tub and a separate shower with steam and / or multiple jets, is considered a big asset in today's real estate market. Remodeling an old bathroom generally costs less than updating a kitchen.

5. Create a Master Suite
A luxurious master suite that serves as a serene retreat is on many homeowners' wish lists. The suite should have luxurious bedding, ample storage, a comfortable place to lounge and inviting décor. To create a sumptuous ambiance, consider dressing up the windows with a versatile premium product, such as Alustra Luminette Privacy Sheers or Alustra Silhouette window shadings from Hunter Douglas, which will soften the incoming light and create a luminous glow throughout the room.

- News Canada

What a home inspection is and is not

2008-03-12T15:18:00.001-07:00

(NC)—A home inspection is a thorough visual examination of the condition of the home and property. "When conducted by a professional," explains Colin Smyth, business leader at AmeriSpec of Canada, "a home inspection covers about 1000 check points on approximately 400 items around the home"

The process usually takes between two and three hours, during which the home is examined from the ground up. An inspection should include observation and when appropriate, the operation of the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical and appliance systems, as well as structural components: roof, attic, foundation, basement, exterior and interior walls, chimney and doors.

A home inspection is not an appraisal and vice versa. An appraisal is the formal process of estimating a property's value as it relates to a mortgage loan or mortgage insurance. It does not itemize defects or reflect potential problems in the home. To ensure an objective evaluation of a home's condition, many lenders encourage home buyers to use private inspection services and some employers reimburse home inspection fees as a part of their relocation program.

A home inspection is not a warranty. A home inspection is a visual examination of the home and its operating systems, it is not technically exhaustive. There is no assurance, expressed or implied, that equipment will not break down at some future date. However, such protection is available when a home inspection is complemented by a home warranty.

A home inspection does not detect every conceivable flaw. A home inspection is entirely visual, home inspectors cannot see through foundation, floors or walls. They cannot inspect areas that are inaccessible and generally do not move furniture.

The findings should be provided to you in the form of a comprehensive report with recommended actions. It is vital that such a report includes an objective evaluation of the condition of the home, clearly stating existing defects and indicating potential problems.

More information and a FREE Guide to Home Inspection is available online at www.amerispec.ca or toll-free at 1-800-263-5928.

- News Canada

How to make a new home even better

2008-03-10T08:26:00.000-07:00

(NC)—Buying a new home can be a stressful time. There are so many things to consider from the safety of the neighbourhood, to the size of the backyard to the number of bathrooms in your home. One other important thing you need to consider is whether there is room to upgrade or even finish any rooms such as the basement.

The basement has huge potential. Before you turn your new space into a family room, game room, bedroom or creative workshop, you need to first assess the room's insulation needs. And don't forget, the best time to transform your basement into a living area is when your new home is being built. It's less disruptive and more cost-effective to insulate prior to moving in. You can then plan and create a space that suits your needs perfectly.

Whether your basement is a do-it yourself project or if you're working with a builder, the project begins with insulation. Here are four easy steps to completing your basement renovation:
• MOISTURE BARRIER
- Place a moisture barrier against the inside of the concrete wall from the floor to finished grade level
• STUD WALL
- Build a standard wall frame wall using 2x6 wood studs and place it in front of the concrete wall
• INSULATE
- Install R-20 PINK Fiberglas batt insulation between the studs and ensure the inner surface of the batts are flush with the inside surfaces of the studs and are up tight against the concrete foundation wall, creating a solid thermal barrier between studs which can conserve energy to help reduce heating costs
• VAPOUR RETARDER
- Staple the polyethylene sheet (an insulating plastic) over the entire wall on the warm in winter side of the wall

After you're finished framing and insulating, you may finish the wall to suit your tastes - whether its drywall or wood paneling. No matter if the basement is used to play, work or relax, this additional living space can accommodate any growing family. For more information on basement insulation, visit www.owenscorning.ca.

The colour PINK is a registered trademark of Owens Corning

- News Canada

Get decked out this spring.

2008-03-07T16:43:00.001-08:00

(NC)—As the temperature rises, thoughts turn to spending time basking in the sun, grilling, entertaining and relaxing on the deck. Now is the time to begin plans for building or upgrading this cornerstone piece of your backyard. Consider the following tips from The Home Depot Canada to get your decking plans in motion:

Plan accordingly. Before embarking on building or upgrading the deck, first determine the activities that will take place on the deck, whether that be grilling, lounging or eating. Next, map out how the deck can be divided into areas for each activity.

Choose materials. Due to the growing popularity of decks, there are now many deck building materials to choose from. Here are the top materials you should consider:

• Composite decking– made of wood fibre and plastic, low maintenance materials. Very malleable, making curves and shapes an option in the deck design
• Pressure-treated wood – most common and affordable, usually made of pine or spruce
• Cedar – provides natural resistance to decay and insect damage. Needs to be treated regularly
• Plastic – lighter, low maintenance material, offered in a range of colours

Fancy finish. There are a variety of deck finishes, ranging from conventional penetrating stains to water-based stains in clear, semi-transparent and opaque finishes. Most homeowners use semi-transparent or opaque stains to maximize the protection and duration of their coating.

Dress it up. Give the deck character by adding household items such as pillows and centrepieces, along with more traditional outdoor fare, such as a grill, patio set and plants. Extra features to consider include solar lighting, outdoor couches and patio heaters to extend outdoor entertaining well into the evening.

Now that you're all decked out with either your brand new or upgraded deck, get out there and enjoy it with friends and family before the warm weather passes you by. More information is available online at homedepot.ca.

- News Canada

Construction tips to prevent fire.

2008-03-07T16:26:00.000-08:00

(NC)—Fire will destroy most structures directly in its path, but there are actions you can take to increase your home's resistance to fire during the construction stage. Here are a few important tips on this subject

The Location: Build your home on the most level, least windy spot of land available. Fires move up a slope faster than on level ground because hot gases rise and preheat its path.

The Roof: Ask for non-combustible roofing materials, such as metal, slate or clay tile, cement and concrete products. A fire-resistant, sub-roofing can also increase a home's survivability.

The Walls: Building your home with concrete walls will be much stronger, more durable, more soundproof, at least twice as energy-efficient, and up to four times more fire-resistant than traditional wood-framed walls. Nudura (Nudura.com) features double insulated, pre-assembled units that make construction much faster. Each wall form is steel-reinforced concrete and fire-retardant polystyrene foam that have a 3- to 4-hour fire protection rating compared to 20 minutes with a traditional stick frame home. For further protection against fire, homeowners might consider using fire resistive exterior wall cladding, such as masonry or stucco, instead of quick melting vinyl. Building with concrete walls can also provide added insurance savings due to its non-combustible nature.

The Fence and Deck: Don't attach an all-wood fence or deck to your home, unless masonry or metal is used as a protective barrier between them and the house. If your home is built on a hill, remember that all exterior wooden features are in the direct line of a fire that is moving up the slope. Consider a stone terrace instead. Place wire mesh under porches below the ground line to keep sparks and flames out.

The Maintenance: Keep gutters, eaves, and the roof clear of leaves and other debris that might catch fire. Clear dead wood and dense vegetation at least 15 metres around your home and move firewood 40 to 50 metres away from the house, fence and deck. Do not allow combustible materials and debris to accumulate anywhere on your property.

- News Canada

Is your home too air tight?

2008-03-04T16:25:00.002-08:00

(NC)—In attempting to conserve energy and reduce our heating costs, we can sometimes make our homes too air tight. In fact, for a house to be healthy, it needs to "breathe". It needs to expel moisture and other gases from inside and take in a constant supply of fresh air from outside.

How can you tell if your home is too air tight?

• Generally the air inside your home is stuffy and stale.

• Excessive condensation dripping down your windows. (This could also mean your humidifier is set too high so check that first.)

• The pilot light on your gas appliance keeps going out.

• A gas flame burns yellow instead of blue (except in the case of a natural gas fireplace).

• The smell of exhaust gases are present in your home. Although you can't smell carbon monoxide, other exhaust gases do have an odour.

If your home is too air tight, exhaust gases, including carbon monoxide, can build up. If you see these signs, contact a qualified heating contractor or a residential ventilation expert to check your home out and correct the problem. You can locate a qualified contractor who specializes in mechanical ventilation online at www.hrac.ca or toll-free at 1-877-411-HRAC (4722).

Mechanical ventilation involves a device that exhausts contaminated indoor air from your home and delivers a fixed quantity of outdoor air back in. A system referred as a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) is an all-season solution that transfers heat from the exhaust air to the intake air in the winter. In the summer, the heat transfer is reversed to save on cooling costs.

Investing in the installation of a mechanical ventilation system (HRV) will not only boost the health and comfort your family, it might even increase the market value of your home by indicating to the buyer that the home's structural concerns have been well taken care of. Either way, as a homeowner, you can then breathe a little easier.

-News Canada

Let's get the closet organized

2008-03-04T16:25:00.001-08:00

(NC)—For many, the start of the New Year is a popular time to re-organize and reduce clutter for the year ahead. Closets are an area of the home that often get neglected and where clutter can easily pile up. The storage and organization team at Canadian Tire has the following tips to help create an organized closet.

• Before you get started measure your closet so you know the amount of space you have to work with.

• Choose a closet organization system that is versatile and has many storage possibilities so you can tailor the system to meet your needs. For example, the Debbie Travis closet system has free-standing towers and adjustable components that provide flexibility to customize any space. Choose from one of the two tower widths, then add the components that suit your needs – it's that simple.

• Consider adding storage solutions like a hanging shoe organizer. It will not only free-up floor space, but will also allow you to see your shoes. This organizer can also double as accessory storage for items like baseball hats, purses, belts and much more.

• Use garment bags for formal wear and bulky seasonal clothing, such as suits, dresses and coats. Garment bags help to protect items from mildew and moisture. When choosing a garment bag, look for bags that hold multiple items as a well as those made of clear fabric to help to quickly identify and differentiate special items in your closet.

• Decorative boxes and patterned canvas totes are also a great way to keep items out of the way and reduce clutter in your closet. To maximize impact, use several boxes of the same colour or style and line them up in a row on the top shelf of your closet. Storage totes, like the Debbie Travis patterned canvas totes, not only provide extra room to store things, they also have a label holder so contents can be easily identified and accessed when needed.

-News Canada