This page contains information on local Home & Garden Retailers and tips on maintaining your property. While some of the articles may not be appropriate for our island community, they are all posted here for the benefit of our international readers. You never know when some of these cold weather tips might prove beneficial in the tropics too.

Home improvements can sometimes lead to an overextended credit rating. If you find yourself in a credit pinch and don't know where to turn, click on the link above for Credit Justice Service. They will work with you and your creditors to develop a plan that will help you get back into good credit standing. Once you complete the form that will open, they will arrange for your first consultation.

UDL Lumber in Estate Glynn is open seven days a week to serve your construction and remodeling needs. And yes, they deliver to any location on St. Croix. The new showroom/sales area currently under construction will carry an expanded line of products to further serve your construction, plumbing, electrical, painting, and lawn care needs. Call them at 778-2331.

(MS) — At first glance, few insects seem as innocuous as the ant. But what ants lack in size, they certainly make up for in substance.

Ants may be scoping out your home right now as a source of food. By learning how ants behave and recognizing their calling cards, you can successfully prevent ant problems this year. Here are some tips from BASF, manufacturer of Termidor® termiticide/insecticide and Phantom® termiticide-insecticide:

• Inspect the exterior perimeter of the house for signs of ants. Carpenter ants are a big, black, common variety of ant that can enter the house and even cause more structural damage than termites, say experts. Carpenter ants do not actually eat wood but excavate galleries within it to use as nesting sites. Signs of these ants may be frass: wood shavings, bits of soil, and parts of other insects. Other ants may create soil mounds or be seen scurrying along ant trails. Many ants do most foraging at night, so you may find more activity in the evening hours.

• Eliminate food sources. Ants love grease, crumbs, sweets, and other materials that they can scavenge. Rinse out containers before placing them in garbage bags. Clean up spills in and around the house. Routinely clean floors, inside of cabinets, countertops, and even around appliances to get rid of some food sources. Also pick up pets’ water and food bowls when they’re not in use.

• Seal cracks around windows and doors. Ants can fit through even the tiniest of gaps in search of food and water, so make sure you block entry to your house. Also, eliminate hiding spots for ants, such as moving firewood or woodpiles away from the home.

• Remove water sources. Ants need water in addition to food to survive, so do away with extraneous sources of water. Fix plumbing leaks and clean out downspouts to eliminate moisture seepage into the home. Also, check outdoor waterspouts and any drains to make sure they’re functioning properly.

• Learn about ant behavior to beat these pests at their own game. The Ant Institute™ (AntInstitute.com), developed by the experts at BASF, is the Web’s premier destination for learning about these common household pests. On the site, powerful Web cameras capture close snapshots of ants 24 hours a day, seven days a week, honing in on what it would be like if these pests invaded a typical home. The Web site is also enhanced by facts about ants, opportunities for “asking the expert,” and other useful information for those interested in ant behavior — and how to eradicate the pests. The site’s scientific content is reviewed and managed by expert entomologists.

“Effective ant control begins by understanding the behavior of ants and working with a professional to apply effective solutions,” says Bob Hickman, chief entomologist with the Ant Institute. “Pest professionals can combine application of Phantom to outdoor points where pests enter as frequently as every month with a Termidor application along the exterior foundation walls twice a year for general pest control.”

There are plenty of other tips and techniques for dealing with ants found at AntInstitute.com. Log on today to view ants in real time and find out more. TF087058

(MS) — Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a chalk-like substance made from ground fossilized diatoms (a type of hard-shelled algae) used in a number of applications. It can be used to filter out solid waste in wastewater treatment plants. It is also often added to swimming pool filters to improve removal of debris. Perhaps its use as a natural pesticide is one of the most beneficial applications for homeowners. The material can also be used as a safe method of insect extermination in and around the home. DE penetrates the insects’ exoskeleton and works by dehydrating the insects. Because it is absolutely safe for people to handle, it is a good option for individuals who want to control bugs but have concerns about chemical pesticides. It is suggested to dust areas where insects might frequent with the DE, such as under appliances, along the perimeter of rooms, in basement crevices, and around the exterior of the home. An application puffer can be purchased to apply DE, but some people use a paintbrush or turkey baster to get the job done. EL086968

(MS) — Aerial ladders on many fire trucks can’t extend any higher than the sixth or seventh floor?

- In fact, even in cases where fire fighters and their ladders can reach, they would still rather evacuees use properly indicated and lit exits and stairwells.

• Low-level lighting and signage is being adopted more and more?

- Why? Smoke rises. Even the latest and greatest exit signs and emergency lighting can’t be seen at their current high levels. Safety way guidance systems (low-level lighting strategically placed through hallways and stairwells, illuminating and indicating routes to safety) and low-level signage provide clear direction even in smoke-filled conditions.

- Photoluminescent (glow-in-the-dark) Safety Way Guidance Systems are mandated in certain jurisdictions.

• New York City passed Local Law 26 on May 31, 2005, which required all existing or new high-rise office buildings over 75-feet-tall to install such systems by July 2006.

- Fire fighters are starting to train with photoluminescent systems. The Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute located at Toronto, Canada’s Pearson International Airport has recently installed photoluminescent signage and guidance systems for training purposes.

• The new facility is being called the preeminent training facility for professional firefighters worldwide, providing the best training available, in the safest, sustainable manner.

• Newer, more advanced emergency signage and guidance systems can actually save you money, as well as make your building safer?

- Photoluminescent systems don’t require any energy to operate, cutting down on electric bills and maintenance.

- They’re completely non-radioactive and environmentally friendly.

- They reportedly have a life expectancy of 25 years and more.

More information on photoluminescent technology, safety signage and guidance systems can be found online at www.lumonall.com, or toll-free at 1-888-LUMONALL. EL086983

(MS) — Looking for a quick way to reduce energy and maintenance bills? Exit signs that must be lit 24 hours a day, seven days a week can take a bite out of commercial and industrial budgets, as well as those for residential high-rise dwellings. Photoluminescent (glow-in-the-dark) exit signs can offer significant savings per sign in reduced energy, materials, and labor costs as compared with standard incandescent models. For actual figures relating to how much a traditional exit sign can cost in energy bills alone — not to mention bulb-replacement, maintenance and other labor costs — there is an exit sign cost calculator available at www.lumonall.com.

According to the US Department of Energy, “in locations with proper charging sources, PL [photoluminescent] exit signs can have an unlimited service life.” (source link: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/femp/procurement/eep_exit_sign.html)
Added to the zero energy cost value is the fact that photoluminescent signage can be considered fail-safe because it doesn’t rely on power, bulbs or maintenance. EL086981

(MS) — Here are some questions you can ask to make sure that you feel as safe traveling as you do at home:

• Where are the hotel exits? Do you know? Do your kids?

• “Look for the exit signs!” Make a game of it. Ask your kids if they know how to find the exits.

• Count them. How many are there?

• Where are they? How many doors to the left or right of your room? Four doors to the left, or maybe eight doors to the right?

• Are the exit signs working? See if you can turn out the lights and let the kids see the signs in the dark.

• Are they light enough? Are they on at all?

• Where do the exits lead? A dark hallway? A dark stairwell? Or have they installed photoluminescent (glow-in-the-dark) safety way guidance systems?

Exit signs are easy to miss, but they don’t have to be. It is important to learn about what kind of safety systems are in place, as well as what is available. More and more hotels are installing fail-safe photoluminescent exit signs and safety way guidance systems in their hallways and stairwells.

Information on building safety, exit sign standards, and photoluminescent emergency signage and guidance systems is available online at www.lumonall.com or toll-free at 1-888-LUMONALL. EL086982

(MS) — Fire drills aside, what kind of emergency systems do your kids’ schools have in place? One basic element in building safety often overlooked is emergency signage. Here are some questions you can ask:

• How many exits does the school have?
• Where are they?
• Are they clearly indicated and illuminated?
• Are the exit signs in proper working order?
• How many floors is the school?
• Are there windows that can open or are safe to go out?
• Are they clearly marked?
• Where do the exits lead? Outside, or to a stairwell? Up, or down?
• Are the hallways and stairwells equipped with photoluminescent (glow-in-the-dark) safety way guidance systems, or some other form of lower level lighting?
• Are the fire extinguishers and fire hoses clearly marked?
• Are there dangerous areas that children should not go in an emergency, or any circumstance?
• Are they clearly indicated and illuminated?

Most of these questions can be addressed in some manner with signage. Find out what kind of signage your schools use.

Many schools are adopting newer, better forms of emergency signage to replace traditional incandescent bulb-lit exit signs. Bulb replacement, general maintenance, and reliance on energy make traditional exit signs unreliable. Alternatives, such as photoluminescent signage, are considered fail-safe, provide many other safety solutions, and do not use energy. We teach our kids to wear their seatbelts—you wouldn’t let them get in a car that didn’t have any, right? Photoluminescent safety systems in your schools is the same thing. Our kids should know what to look for and know what kind of safety systems should be in place.

Information on photoluminescent applications, building safety and emergency signage can be found online at www.lumonall.com, or toll-free at 1-888-LUMONALL. EL086984

(MS) — How safe are our public spaces and buildings? How safe is your office building, or condo? How are you going to get out in an emergency? What about when you are traveling? Wherever you are, and whatever building you are in, there are pivotal issues to keep in mind when it comes to emergency planning. Alarms and sprinkler systems are important early warning factors in a fire-related emergency, but in any emergency situation, it’s the evacuation route that should be highest in mind. Most injuries and more serious outcomes are a result of smoke inhalation, due in large part to the inability to find an exit.

Up-to-date, certified and approved exit signs, as well as safety way guidance systems (low-level lighting strategically placed through hallways and stairwells, illuminating and indicating routes to safety) — ideally ones that do not require energy or regular maintenance to operate properly — are essential to any evacuation plan.

Alarm and sprinkler systems are definitely fundamental, however a thorough understanding of a complete safety system is critical. In addition, assessing the readiness of traditional emergency systems is important, however their effectiveness really only applies to fire safety.

What happens in a power outage? Earthquake? Smoke-filled conditions once the fire is out? In any emergency situation a clearly identified and illuminated evacuation route is something you can’t afford to have fail. And what happens once you’ve reached the exit? Where does it go? Directly outside, or a stairwell? Is the stairwell properly illuminated and equipped with safety way guidance systems?

Pay attention to what kind of signs and safety way guidance systems are being used in your office, condo, hotel, or any high-rise building. Traditional emergency signage and guidance systems can fail due to their reliance on power to operate. Their back-up systems, such as batteries, are also dependent on power and are inherently unreliable. Certain safety features have become standard in North America, such as seat belts and airbags. You wouldn’t use, much less buy, a car that didn’t have seat belts. Why should you be expected to spend your days and/or nights in a building that doesn’t have fundamental safety systems?

And they are fundamental: Only photoluminescent (glow-in-the-dark) exit signs and safety way guidance systems are considered fail-safe. The technology behind them has been adapted and developed in order to create completely fail-safe and environmentally friendly exit signs and safety way guidance systems. In the aftermath of 9/11, New York City instituted a bylaw requiring that any building over six storeys install photoluminescent safety way guidance systems.

More information on exit sign standards, and specifically photoluminescent emergency signage and guidance systems, is available at www.lumonall.com or toll free at 1-888-LUMONALL. EL086985

(MS) — Following September 11, 2001, many safety assessments and advisories suggested the installation of photoluminescent safety way guidance systems in corridors and stairs. As a direct result of 9/11, New York City recognized that a photoluminescent safety way guidance systems is an essential component to ensure occupant safety in high-rise structures, and officially passed Local Law 26 on May 31, 2005, which required all existing or new high-rise office buildings over 75-feet-tall to install such systems by July 2006. During its renovations following the attack, the Pentagon installed photoluminescent safety way guidance systems, as did the United Nations in 2003.

A pivotal study in Canada confirmed photoluminescent safety way guidance systems as a more effective, improved means of evacuation in emergency conditions. The report was produced by the National Research Council’s Institute for Research in Construction and concluded that photoluminescent (glow-in-the dark) safety way guidance systems (low-level lighting strategically placed through hallways and stairwells, illuminating and indicating routes to safety) are essential components to safety measures in buildings. It is an important step in improving building safety and raises a number of questions: Could your building be safer, and how? This could mean your workplace, your residence, hospitals and/or schools.

With that in mind, fire officials, architects, engineers, building developers, owners and managers are increasingly stepping up to endorse the technology and appear more keen to adopt it. According to the report, “other building codes are also in the process of adopting measures to use photoluminescent safety markings as a means of better defining escape routes, and this technology will continue to be developed and used.”

More information on photoluminescent technology, emergency signage and guidance systems, building safety, as well as the NRC Report in its entirety, can be found at www.lumonall.com, or toll-free at 1-888-LUMONALL. EL086986

(MS) — When the topic of improving air quality comes up, much of the discussion focuses on how to improve outdoor air quality. Solutions such as reducing harmful emissions from vehicles and properly disposing of certain household items are easy ways to improve outdoor air quality.

But what about improving air quality indoors? Ways of doing that are not discussed nearly as much, as it’s common to overlook indoor air quality. But poor air quality indoors can be just as harmful as outside air — or even more so considering the amount of time spent indoors — making it a good policy to keep tabs on indoor air quality via the following tips.

• Dust frequently. Dusting is an easy chore when it’s done frequently. However, the longer dust is allowed to build up, the more arduous removing it can become and the more damaging it is to the quality of indoor air. When dusting, do so with microfiber towels and dusters. Such products attract dust, which will cling to the fibers instead of simply dropping dust to the ground. The object is to remove the dust entirely, not simply move it around to let it fall to the ground where it’s not as visible.

• Adjust the stove. Stoves can be adjusted to decrease their amount of gas emissions. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) refers to this way of improving indoor air quality as source control, in which the source of indoor air pollution is either removed or emissions are reduced to improve air quality. The EPA notes that source control, such as sealing or removing any sources that might contain asbestos, is perhaps the most cost-efficient approach, as other means such as increasing ventilation will no doubt lead to higher utility costs.

• Clean the blinds. Blinds are common gathering places for dust, which tends to gather on the outside-facing part of the blind, making it seem as though the blinds are clean when they are not. Clean blinds weekly using the same microfiber dusters used to remove dust from the rest of the house.

• Bathe and brush pets regularly. Pets contribute mightily to poor indoor air quality, particularly pets that stay outdoors while their owners are away. Pets’ coats are often loaded with dirt and dander (skin flakes in animal fur or hair). When animals shed, much of that dirt and dander is then scattered around the house. To avoid this, brush pets’ hair before they re-enter the home from outdoors, and be sure to bathe them regularly. Also, wash their bedding frequently.

• Wash your own bedding, too. The family pet isn’t the only one who might have a bed that’s contributing to poor indoor air quality. If a human’s bed linens aren’t washed frequently (preferably in hot water) dust mites can begin living in the linens. Feather pillows and bedding also attract dust mites, so those might be something to avoid.

• Don’t overwater houseplants. Houseplants represent an interesting part of the indoor air quality discussion. Some suggestions have hinted that houseplants can reduce levels of some chemicals in the air. However, no evidence to fully support that notion currently exists. What is known is that overwatering houseplants can promote the growth of microorganisms in the air, which can affect those with allergies. To avoid this, simply water plants as directed and make sure they’re not overwatered.

• Vacuum regularly. All sorts of dust and other things such as pet hair and dander can collect in a carpet if it’s not vacuumed regularly. Anyone with a home that has heavy traffic, both people and pets, should vacuum every other day, if not every day. An upholstery brush should be used on all furniture as well. Even if a home has wood floors, use a vacuum that is designed for such floors, as dirt and other items can collect on hardwood floors as well. TF086883

(PR Newswire/MS) — Warmer weather may mean flowers in bloom and longer days, but with it comes grass stains on clothes, mildew, and muddy footprints on carpet. But with a job, a household and a family to manage, who has time to clean? Fear not. With a few handy tips from the makers of Greased Lightning multipurpose cleaner and degreaser, cleaning can be a breeze.

“Cleaning the house is a necessity, but it doesn’t have to take away time on the weekends that you would rather spend doing something fun with your loved ones,” says Helmut Baker, vice president of household chemicals at Homecare Labs, makers of Greased Lightning.

Greased Lightning offers these tips to make your chores go faster:

• Multitask. First, put a load of clothes into the wash and pre-treat the nastiest stains. Next, spray the bathroom sink, toilet, tub, tiles and shower curtain with a multi-purpose cleaner. While the cleaner attacks those stains, grab the vacuum. Then, wipe down the bathroom and switch out your laundry for the next load.

• No way around it, barbecues are a pain to clean. When you’re ready to cook, turn your grill on and let it come to full heat. Before cooking, take half an onion and rub it over the grill. When done cooking, repeat with the other onion half. This prevents that built-up gunk on your grill and allows your food to cook evenly.

• Open that fridge; toss any old food and containers and be sure to wipe down the shelves. Next, load up the dishwasher and don’t forget about the sponges. Sponges are a hangout for contaminates and can easily spread germs to other parts of the kitchen — sticking them in the dishwasher keeps them fresh and clean.

• Wipe down your countertops and cupboards to make them shine. Look for tough spots like wine stains or syrup that can seep into cracks and corners, leaving a yucky mess. And finally, before you mop, do yourself a favor and skip the broom. The vacuum is an easy way to pick up anything hiding on your kitchen floor.

An effective way to save time with your chores is to use one multipurpose product, such as Greased Lightning. Effective on most surfaces, Greased Lightning cleans clothing stains, carpet stains, pet stains, kitchens, bathrooms and even patio furniture. For more information and cleaning tips, visit www.greased-lightning.com. TF086835

(MS) — As the current subprime mortgage crisis can attest, many homeowners are struggling to make ends meet. As interest rates rise, homeowners across the country are aware that one unforeseen problem, such as the need for a new roof or a flooded basement, could be the straw that breaks the camel’s back with respect to the dream of home ownership.

While most homeowners carry flood or fire insurance, a commonly overlooked problem is lightning. Though the chances of being struck by lightning might seem relatively small, lightning actually strikes more than 250,000 times per year, resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars in damages. According to the Insurance Information Institute, lightning caused roughly $882 million in insured losses in 2006, which marked a 20 percent increase over the previous three years. Those figures are expected to exceed $1 billion in 2008, making it more important than ever for homeowners to protect themselves against a visually engaging yet formidable foe.

According to the Lightning Protection Institute (LPI), understanding lightning is a good first step toward protecting oneself from its wrath.

• Lightning is not deterred by surge arresters, suppressors and “whole-house protectors.” Contrary to popular belief, surge protection devices cannot protect a structure against direct lightning strikes. While these devices are important components of a complete system to protect incoming utility lines against infiltration, on their own they do little to protect a home from lightning. However, when combined with a structural lightning rod system (air terminals, bonding and grounding) they can prove a valuable and effective means of protection.

• Lightning rods do not attract lightning. Another myth commonly associated with lightning is that lightning rods attract lightning. In fact, a lightning protection system acts more as an interceptor of lightning, rerouting a strike and providing a safe path to the ground for discharging the dangerous electricity.

• Tall trees do not protect homes from lightning strikes. The problem with a home nestled under a group of trees is where the best ground path for the lightning might be. Common metallic grounded systems within a home (electric, phone, gas, water) may provide a preferable grounding medium for the lightning. Therefore, lightning can actually “side-flash” from a tree and enter a home as it seeks a more conductive path to ground.

• Lightning likes technology, too. As the world becomes more and more tech-savvy, the losses from lightning strikes are increasing. Today’s homes and businesses have more electronic equipment than ever before, and metal building components are on the rise as well. Internal systems lead lightning toward more valuable, often irreplaceable items and people in close proximity.

What each of these points highlights, especially for homeowners looking to protect themselves from an often overlooked act of Mother Nature, is the importance of a lightning protection system. The system provides a low resistance path to safely intercept lightning's dangerous electricity and direct it to ground without impact to the structure or it's occupants. And while the DIY boom has increased the average homeowners’ confidence in tackling projects on their own, the LPI notes that installing a lightning protection system is one home improvement job that should be left to the professionals, who are fully aware of the safety standards established by Underwriters Laboratories and the National Fire Protection Association.

“It is important to have an experienced professional install the lightning protection system,” says Bud VanSickle, executive director for LPI. “Improper installation can lead to serious consequences, and in severe cases may be worse than not having protection at all.”

Recognizing the complexity involved with installing a lightning protection system and the potential repercussions of an improperly installed system, LPI certifies individuals through a Master Installer testing program and offers a list of certified contractors on its Web site. To see a list of certified contractors and other information regarding the national safety standards for lightning protection installation, visit the LPI Web site at www.lightning.org. EL086919

(MS) — What conserves moisture, smothers weeds, creates healthier plants and even helps slow global warming? It’s mulch. Do a little research and you’ll see why there is much ado about mulch.

Mulching can be one of the most beneficial things you can do for your soil and your plants, says the Natural Resources Conservation Service. If you haven’t thought about mulching your garden or landscape beds in the past, you may want to reconsider.

Adding a layer of mulch to a landscape bed will really help keep the weeds out by preventing the germination of weed seeds. It’ll also moderate soil temperature and help retain moisture. Plus, it just looks great. The rich brown color of bark mulch contrasts beautifully with healthy green plants.

Once you’ve added fresh mulch to your landscape bed, be sure to give that bed a nice finishing touch with a good looking border. You can find information on many edging possibilities at www.easygardener.com.

An edging that will let any landscape bed shine is the Easy Gardener Ultra-Edge™ Landscape Edging. This particular edging blends well with any outdoor décor. It looks like wood and is fade-resistant, so it will look great for years to come.

Ultra Edge Landscape Edging is made of recycled wood flour and polypropylene. The eco-friendly landscape and garden edging is 30 percent lighter than similar edging products, but it’s no lightweight when it comes to durability. The tough edging can survive the harshest weather conditions and lawn equipment abuse. It even comes with a 25 year guarantee against cracking, rotting, peeling and chipping.

Another smart edging choice is Fiber Edge®. Many landscape contractors across the country choose Fiber Edge because of its incredible durability. Made of UV resistant fiberglass, the edging bends easily, so you can make it conform to just about any landscape design. To install it, simply hammer it into the ground with a rubber mallet. Once it’s in, it will stay put and won’t rust, warp or rot.

Fiber Edge, which has in the past come in a rich looking green, now also comes in black. Both colors are UV-resistant and will not fade. Your landscape beds will look great from the street and will continue to complement the landscape as the edging keeps your mulch in and those creeping grasses out. EL086925

1. Fertilize properly.
Too much fertilizer leads to excessive top growth and unnecessary water use. A pre-measured fertilizer spike like Jobe’s® ensures plants receive the proper amount of nutrients.

2. Conserve soil moisture.
Studies show landscape fabric like eco-friendly WeedBlock® Natural covered with mulch keeps soil moist and prevents weeds from germinating.

3. Minimize surface evaporation.
65% of the water sprinkled on lawns during the heat of the day evaporates. A deep root feeder such as the ROSS® Root Feeder delivers moisture directly to the root zone. This eliminates surface evaporation and run-off. EL086927

(MS) — Looking to sell your house? Then you need something that will lure buyers into it. Realtors say that curb appeal is one of the most important things for a house to have in this tough real estate market.

“It is definitely a buyer’s market,” says Stacy Hedden, a Realtor in the Southeast United States. “You may have a beautiful interior, but if the outside of your home isn’t fabulous, you won’t even get that buyer in the door.”

What is the best way to attract potential buyers? “Landscape, landscape landscape,” says Hedden.

Making small updates to your landscape can add big value to your home. Doing something as simple as weeding landscape beds and adding a few new plants can give your home a clean and inviting look.

Keep weeds out of you landscape beds by using a weed control fabric like Easy Gardener’s WeedBlock® Natural. It’s the world’s first weed control fabric made with annually renewable resources. It looks great, keeps the weeds out and is good for the environment.

The new product is unlike its completely petroleum-based predecessors. Eco-friendly WeedBlock Natural has been touted as quite “a-maize-ing” as it is made from Ingeo® fiber, which is derived from renewable resources, like corn. While easy on the environment, WeedBlock Natural is tough on weeds.

The landscape fabric allows the free flow of air, water and nutrients to soil while at the same time blocking sunlight and weeds. The fabric encourages root growth by keeping the soil moist and cool.

In addition to helping save the environment, WeedBlock Natural will save you a ton of gardening time, as you won’t have to pull weeds. You’ll have more time to focus on getting the rest of your house spruced up.

Using the product is easy; just spread it over the plants, cut holes to the size needed, pull the fabric down around the plant and then place mulch over the fabric. Anchor the WeedBlock Natural with Bio Fabric Pegs, a safe and effective bio-based alternative to non-renewable metal or petroleum-based plastic stakes and staples. The pegs are flexible, yet rigid enough to be driven into hard ground. The clear pegs don’t detract from your beds and will keep your landscape fabric in place for a long time. You can learn more about WeedBlock Natural and Bio Fabric Pegs by visiting www.easygardener.com or calling 1-800-327-9462.

Remember, the outside of your home provides a buyer’s first — and last — impression of your home, and a great looking landscape leaves a great impression. So get to work on those beds and weed out the competition. EL086928

(MS) — They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder. For example, take that old straw bale that you didn’t end up using last season. Did you know that you can use it as a planter? It’s true, some beautiful looking plants have come from straw bale containers. Gardeners who use this method say that plants grown in straw bales appear to require less water. In addition, the container can be turned into compost when you’re through with it.

Creating a straw bale planter is a fun summer project and definitely worth a try. The first thing you’ll need, of course, is an old straw bale and some plants. Try tomatoes, peppers, squash or even cucumbers.

Choose where you want to put your planter and then place the straw bale short side up. Dig out the center of the bale and line it with an eco-friendly material like burlap or Easy Gardener’s new WeedBlock® Biodegradable Mulch to hold potting soil in place.

Next, fill the area with potting soil or compost and place your chosen plant in the center. Gently pat soil to firm. If birds or wind are prone to spread weed seed in your area, cover the soil around the plant with another layer of WeedBlock Biodegradable Mulch. It offers the same performance as traditional landscape fabrics, however, it is made from recycled paper and contains no chemicals that would harm the environment and is OMRI listed.

WeedBlock Biodegradable Mulch is also ideal for vegetable gardens and flower beds as it adds nutrients and builds up soil to prevent erosion. You won’t have to remove and dispose of it at the end of the season. Like the straw bale, WeedBlock Biodegradable Mulch can be composted because it’s made from 100 percent post-consumer waste. You can find out more by visiting www.easygardener.com or calling 1-800-327-9462.

Keep your plants in the straw bale flourishing by feeding with easy-to-use fertilizer spikes. Be true to the environment and choose an organic spike like the new Jobe’s® Organics® Fertilizer Spikes. These spikes will deliver nutrients to plants because they work near the plant roots. The naturally slow-release organic nutrients in the spikes ensure hearty plants and improve long-term soil quality by promoting beneficial microbial activity.

Finally, be sure to properly water the plants in your new straw bale planter. If you follow all of these steps, you should have some great results — or at least a bundle of fun trying it out! EL086929

(MS) — The variety of styles and the mix of materials that can be used to edge laminate countertops can be an advantage over other countertop materials. Here’s a look at some traditional and new options that are “shaping” countertops today.

The Basics

The most familiar laminate edge treatment is the self edge or straight edge. This edge treatment leaves a thin line of exposed core (often called “the brown line”) which can be used cleverly as an accent.

Laminate can be wrapped around an edge to create rounded shapes. This process is called post-forming. The most common post-formed edges are the waterfall and the bull nose.

The waterfall, as the name implies, is rounded on the top — the laminate “falls” over the top to the front edge. Bullnose edges are fully rounded edges in which the laminate wraps back under the countertop. A variation on the bullnose, called the “double wrap” has a softened square effect.

Beveled, wood and even solid surface edges, bring out laminate’s true potential. Wilsonart beveled edge molding is available in any laminate pattern and can be either matched or contrasted to the laminate used on the top surface. New stone patterns look even richer with the monolithic treatments while wood edges can be stained or painted to match your cabinetry and finished into a variety of profiles. Be sure to ask your fabricator what type of edges he offers.

New on the Scene

Some countertop manufacturers have greatly expanded the variety of edge looks with proprietary sculpted edges available on a post-formed countertop.

Capitoline Products Inc, Hartson-Kennedy, and VT Industries, all offer ogee edge profiles that give the upscale look of carved stone and solid surface tops. When paired with the new granite and stone designs in laminate, this creates an elegant countertop look at a fraction of the cost of high-priced alternatives.

To learn more about the possibilities that laminate surfacing offers, visit www.countertop.com. EL086961

(MS) — Across America, the growing population is putting stress on available water supplies. Between 1950 and 2000, the population nearly doubled. However, in that same period, public demand for water more than tripled. On average, Americans use 100 gallons of water each day — enough to fill 1,600 drinking glasses. This increased demand has put additional stress on water supplies and distribution systems, threatening both human health and the environment.

“There’s a reason why water has become a U.S. national priority,” said Lenora Campos, spokesperson for TOTO USA, the only plumbing manufacturer to be honored as Water Efficiency Leader by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. “A recent Government Accountability Survey showed at least 36 states are anticipating local, regional, or statewide water shortages by 2013. By effecting sustainable water practices across the continent today, we can help preserve water supplies for future generations — and save money at the same time.”

According to the EPA, residential toilets account for about one-third of the nation’s indoor household water use — more than 2.1 billion gallons of water a year — as the average American family of four flushes more than 16 times per day. Gobbling up economic resources, the cost to deliver and treat water staggers municipal water districts, and family economies struggle with ever-rising water bills. Further, water efficiency is linked to energy efficiency; less water flushed means less energy used by treatment plants. Sustainable water use is good for the environment and the bottom line.

If your home was built prior to 1992, when the federal government began mandating low-flush 1.6 gallons per flush (gpf) toilets, your existing bathroom toilets greedily consume 3.5 gallons per flush (gpf). If your home dates back to the 1950s or earlier, you may have a water-guzzling 5.5-gpf toilet or even an H2O-gourmandizing 7-gpf model.

Installing 1.28 gpf high-efficiency toilets is a great way to make a local difference that can have a global effect. With this one home improvement, a family of four will save an estimated 68 gallons of water each day. That’s close to 25,000 gallons each year.

To help the Americans become better water consumers, the EPA has instituted the WaterSense labeling program, which will educate the public to make smart water choices that save money and maintain high environmental standards without compromising performance. To qualify for the WaterSense label, a toilet model must be independently certified to consume no more than 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf), effectively remove 350 grams of solid waste with one flush, and resist after-installation tampering to increase its water consumption. The EPA believes that efficient products and informed consumers will go a long way to ensure that our water future is secure and sustainable. The WaterSense program is designed as a win-win — both for consumers’ wallets and the environment.

A Leader in Water Conservation

TOTO has been at the forefront of developing High Efficiency Toilets. In 2007, TOTO introduced 14 new WaterSense labeled 1.28 gpf HET’s to the market. In 2008, TOTO continues to lead the charge in water efficiency by introducing another 14 new HET models, all of which will bear the EPA’s WaterSense endorsement.

A Green, Clean Beauty

Among its new HET introductions are the elegant one- and two-piece Gwyneth, which revolutionize water-efficient, gravity-fed flushing systems with their 1.28 gpf Double Cyclone Flush Engine.

By ingeniously marrying bowl cleanliness to exceptional water-efficient flush performance, TOTO has engineered the first HET that delivers unsurpassed performance and cleans itself with every flush, making periodic maintenance a breeze.

The Gwyneths’ curvilinear design elements resonate in tank and bowl, creating a pleasing coherence to their overall structural design. Its inner beauty arises from TOTO’s new 1.28 gpf Double Cyclone Flush Engine.

“This new high-efficiency technology not only provides flushing performance as yet unseen, but also it continually scours the rim and bowl, creating the HET that cleans itself with every flush, resulting in unparalleled water efficiency, hygiene, and minimal maintenance requirements,” said Campos.

To raise the industry-wide bar on high-efficient flushing systems, bringing them into the 21st century, TOTO’s engineers reinvented the gravity-fed 1.28 gpf flush engine by creating a green, clean triumvirate — water efficiency, high performance, and bowl cleansing action. First, the primary nozzle — located at the back of the bowl — fires a high-speed stream of water that scours the rim and initiates the water’s Cyclone action. Almost immediately, a second water nozzle — located behind the first — fires a second high-speed water jet around the redesigned bowl’s concave rim, providing a second rim scour and 360-degrees of rim and bowl cleansing action.

TOTO’s redesigned rimless bowl is an essential element in the 1.28 gpf Double Cyclone Flush Engine’s power and effectiveness. Traditional hollow rims overhang the bowl and slowly release water through sequentially spaced rim holes, which provide wash down for the bowl. With TOTO’s re-engineered Concave Rim Design, water from the primary and secondary nozzles fires around the concave rim channel, scouring the SanaGloss glazed rim and bowl, removing debris and bacteria with each flush for the first toilet that virtually cleans itself with every flush.

By marrying superior performance to exceptional maintenance, TOTO’s new Gwyneth 1.28 gpf high-efficiency toilets with the Double Cyclone flushing technology are an excellent choice for homeowner, architect, and design professional alike.

For more information, call (888) 295-8134, Option 5, or visit ww.TOTOUSA.com. EL086997

(MS) — Once the warm weather arrives, it’s time for homeowners and apartment dwellers alike to take inventory of the clutter that may have been accumulating during the last several months. It’s after a long winter that many people realize they’ve been building up a hodgepodge since the day the temperature began to drop and now it needs to go.

For some, simply throwing everything out is the best way to go. For others, a less absolute approach is called for. The following tips should appeal to those on both sides of the fence.

Organize the clutter. Clutter lying around the house is often the product of poor organization. This doesn’t mean items need to be discarded. Instead, a simple DIY project to organize the clutter could be all you need. If winter is when you’re prone to catch up on your reading, you might have a stack of books overflowing off your bookshelf. A trip to a local hardware store, or big chains such as Home Depot or Lowe’s, can provide the tools you need to build a new bookcase so you can keep expanding that library. Rather than purchasing a new bookcase, making a new one will save you money and make the spring cleaning more enjoyable, especially for those who like working with their hands. To see a list of supplies you might need for such a project, visit the Home Depot Web site at www.homedepot.com.

Decide what you really need. One of the biggest causes of clutter is magazines. For whatever reason, back issues of magazines rarely find their way into the recycling bin. Instead, they’re prone to sitting around the house, taking up valuable space. In many cases, people don’t even regularly read magazines they subscribe to. Decide which magazines want to keep and which ones you can cancel. You might even be able to cancel all subscriptions, as many magazines offer their content free of charge on their Web sites.

Sort mail immediately. In the running with magazines on the clutter culprits list is unread or bulk mail. Nowadays, as paying bills online grows increasingly popular, many creditors and banks offer e-mail statements to help cut down on mailings. If you pay your bills online and such a service is offered, utilize it. If not, be sure to sort mail when it arrives. Shred all junk mail, such as unsolicited credit cards, and then inquire at your local post office or visit the United States Postal Services Web site at www.usps.com to find out how to get off mailing lists.

Cancel extra credit cards. Most people likely get more mail from credit card companies than they do from friends and family. But as far as clutter goes, extra credit cards are more damaging than the extra mail you receive. With an extra credit card comes the temptation to buy something you might not really need. Over time, these unnecessary impulse buys begin to take up lots of space around the house. By canceling extra cards, you’re not only saving yourself money by not purchasing stuff you don’t really need, but you’re also reducing the clutter before it even arrives.

Unsolicited credit card pre-approvals are a big part of junk mail and credit card hassles. About 4.9 billion credit card solitications are sent each year, which equals about 40 per household. You can now opt out of these offers. Call 1-888-5-OPTOUT (567-8688) and follow the instructions. You will be clear of solicitations for two years. You can also contact the three major credit bureaus directly and request to opt out. EL086922

(MS) — Cynthia Inman, the house cleaning diva and founder of “Ask Cindy How” (www.askcindyhow.com) knows effective cleaning is more of an art form than a run-of-the-mill task and shares with others just how to get down and dirty with cleaning house. Through her seminars, how-to articles and advice posted on her site, Cindy lets others know that “a clean home can be a way of life.” Here are her latest insider tips.

By Cynthia Inman a.k.a. www.askcindyhow.com

Having the know-how and the right tools for cleaning a home from top to bottom can go a long way toward making the work go faster — with better results. But the average homeowner might not know which way to turn to get expert advice on cleaning or think they have the time to embark on such lofty cleaning projects.

Now I’m making it even easier for would-be cleaning gurus to hone their skills. For those who didn't have the time or the gumption to wade through the long list of cleaning supplies at stores in search of the best of the best, I offer my top picks and have even designed some of my own products when others just weren’t up to par.

Visit www.askcindyhow.com and visit the shopping gallery to see the very products my staff and I recommend. Beneath some of the product descriptions are handy videos illustrating the proper technique for using each cleaning tool. For those who are ready to embark on in-depth cleaning tasks, here are some of my top tips.

• Stainless steel appliances are abundant in homes across the country. To properly clean them and get a streak-free shine, thoroughly wipe stainless steel surfaces with a neutral dish soap / degreaser (follow label for dilution). Saturate a terry cloth towel in a water and soap solution to wipe stainless surface and all intricate areas like the handle and vent. Use a new terrycloth to dry. Spray stainless steel polish onto a new dry terrycloth towel. Wipe appliance in direction of grain until surface looks renewed.

• To clean antique furniture, select a moisturizing furniture polish without wax, silicones, or abrasives. Instead, it should contain a special blend of natural and organic oils with cleaning emulsifiers. Wipe away surface dust with a thick and thirsty microfiber towel. Spray polish onto a clean, soft polishing cloth and wipe lightly across the furniture with the grain of the wood.

• Today it is more possible than ever to clean your home in an environmentally friendly manner. Retailers are recognizing the need to create cleaning products that are “green” and earth and people friendly. Apart from these specialized products, simple household items like lemon juice, vinegar, and baking soda make effective cleaning solutions. And by having the right tools and knowledge about cleaning, you can get the job done faster, do it more frequently, and therefore have to rely less on harsh chemicals to conquer tough grime and buildup.

Let’s get together and combat the dirt and grime which confronts us daily! EL086918

Cindy

(MS) — April showers are purported to bring May flowers, so the saying goes. However, as we enter the start of the season when it tends to be unusually wet and rainy, it’s important to realize that showers can also bring seasonal flooding.

There are different types of floods and triggers. Flash floods follow a severe downpour, or are the result of a dam or levee failure. Coastal flooding is often from hurricanes or tropical storms, where high winds drive ocean water inland. Urban flooding occurs when natural landscapes are converted into parking lots and other open expanses. Water is not blocked by root systems and therefore infiltrates the city. But it’s river and stream flooding that are generally of the spring season variety. A combination of seasonal rains and melting snow from higher elevations fill water basins too quickly, thus an overflow into communities often occurs.

Floods can be frightening and very damaging to homes and businesses. They also have the potential to be deadly, where fast-moving water carries people — and even vehicles — away quite quickly.

Before a Flood

It is important to learn the flood warning signs in your community, and be prepared with supplies and know-how should a flood occur. An evacuation plan should be developed and practiced. This plan should include directions to the safest routes to shelters and evacuation zones. In addition, having these supplies on hand can help:
• flashlights
• battery-powered radios to listen for emergency broadcasts
• emergency food and water for each person in the household
• first-aid kit
• non-electric can opener
• sturdy shoes (waterproof shoes and extra socks can be beneficial for wading through high water)
• essential medicines, credit cards, cash

If you are indoors, listen closely to warning reports about floods and potential evacuations. If you are told to evacuate, do so immediately with your supplies. Those caught outdoors or in a vehicle during a flood should try to get to higher ground. Never cross or drive through flooding water streams. It’s difficult to determine their depth, and even a mere 6 inches of fast-moving water can sweep you away. If your vehicle gets stuck or stalls, abandon it. The United States Search and Rescue Task Force says many deaths have occurred when people try to move their stalled vehicle during a flood.

After a Flood

Just because the flood waters have subsided doesn’t mean the dangers are gone. After a flood, electrical lines, gas lines, and other utilities may be damaged. Do not return to your home unless you’ve been given the okay by town or city officials.

Other unseen hazards may be lurking under debris or residual water. Poisonous snakes or other animals may have been swept indoors from flood waters. Broken glass and other sharp objects could be underfoot. Use caution when sifting through damaged items. Check to see that utilities and plumbing in your home are in working order before using anything.

It is also important to pump out flooded basements gradually (about one-third of the water per day) to avoid structural damage to the home. TF085637

(MS) — Gardening is an activity that can be enjoyed by all ages, from children to seniors. Enthusiasts look to the shades of rich blooms and the variegated colors of foliage to create a landscape they can enjoy. Still, in many parts of the country, gardens are awash in color and lush greenery in the spring and summer, only to lie dormant in the fall and winter.

The abundance of plants available makes any gardener able to keep color going in their garden from January through December. By mixing plants that bloom throughout the year into your landscape design, you can ensure that most days you’ll be able to look upon your garden and be rewarded with bountiful color.

Spring

Spring is renown for plant rebirth. Here are plants that will produce beautiful blooms right when you expect to start seeing them — in spring.

• Ageratum: Blooms a mass of true blue flowers up until fall. It also attracts butterflies.
• Alyssum: A cascading annual or ground cover that produces sweet-smelling small blooms.
• Bleeding heart: Produces dangling heart-shaped flowers on long stems, this perennial is a favorite.
• Oriental poppy: Large cup-shaped flowers in a variety of reds, oranges and pinks will fill the landscape.
• Osteopernum: Daisy-like flower that is becoming increasingly popular since it is drought-tolerant and available in a variety of colors.
• Snapdragons: These make a great cut flower plant. In addition to attracting butterflies, hummingbirds may pay a visit.
• Violas: Violas produce delicate flowers, much like their cousin the pansy. Both viola and pansy plants don’t tolerate the heat, but can rebloom in the fall. They may even last into the winter provided the temperature doesn’t dip too much.

Summer

When the heat is on, these plants really show their stuff.

• Cosmos: These flowers grow very quickly from seed, so they’re a good choice for children’s gardens. They produce cheerful looking blooms.
• Daylilly: There are thousands of varieties of daylillies, so it’s easy to find one that fits your landscape. These plants bloom over a 4 to 12 week period and are perennial.
• English lavender: A popular choice for herb gardens. Highly fragrant purple flowers bloom atop tall stalks. When the flowers fade, silvery-green foliage shines.
• Impatiens: These are some of the most popular summer annuals since the color opportunities are many. Varieties can withstand full sun to part shade.
• Zinnia: These plants produce large flowers that delight. These plants are hardy and drought-resistant.

Fall

As warm days wind down, a selection of plants still captivate with color.

• Autumn aster: The aster usually produces lavender or blue-toned flowers and will bloom in the summer through fall.
• Autumn joy sedum: In the summer, large pink blooms arrive. As the temperatures dip, the flowers turn from pink to a deep maroon.
• Chrysanthemum: “Mums” are the quintessential autumn plant and synonymous with the season.

Winter

Just because the weather is chilled, doesn’t mean your garden should be barren.

• Daffodils: November is the time to plant daffodil bulbs so that they’ll bloom at the tail end of winter/early spring.
• Heath: This shrub comes in pink and white and offers nice cuttings.
• Holly: This evergreen shrub will produce bright berries that add a splash of color to winter gardens.
• Ornamental cabbage or kale: These are excellent color plants for beds or container gardens. They produce rosettes of purple, white and green, and can grow quite large with healthy soil.
• Narcissus: These white blooms (also known as paper whites) can continue to sprout if the winter is mild. FP085626

By Cindy Inman A.K.A. Ask Cindy How.com

(MS) — Now is the time to begin the process of exchanging winter clothing for spring and to clean out fireplaces and generally de-clutter our living spaces. The warm weather is the perfect backdrop to these spring cleaning tasks. And you can enlist the whole family to join in.

I know these projects may not seem like fun, but there are ways to make the process of cleaning a lot easier. Allow me to give you some tips on the use of some of my favorite ergonomic cleaning tools and solutions that you can find on my Web site at www.askcindyhow.com.

Usually, when we clean glass we use paper towels or newspaper with glass cleaner. ‘The challenge is that we end up wiping and wiping to remove the streaks, dirt and grime, often missing the mark. Oh, the energy! The Ask Cindy process is to first use my thick and thirsty microfiber dust cloth to remove all dust from the glass surfaces. Step two is to then spray Ask Cindy Glass Cleaner (also streak free) on a blue-tightly woven microfiber glass cleaning cloth and wipe the glass from edge to edge and corner to corner. For very dirty glass, the initial cleaning may require wet wiping with a soapy water solution first.

As I go into home after home, one of the most frustrating things for the homemakers I encounter is cleaning the stainless steel in the kitchen. The question posed most often to me: How do I get the smudges and streaks off of the surfaces? Solution: First clean the surface with a mild dish liquid soap and water using a white lint-free terrycloth towel. Make sure to dry well with a separate terry cloth towel. Now, polish the surface with Ask Cindy Stainless Steel Polish. Spray the polish onto a new terrycloth towel and polish the stainless by rubbing with the grain smoothing out the finish. The initial application only requires a second application of polish. Gee! I love that showroom finish.

The last item I’ll discuss is the tools that I use for getting at those hard-to-get-at spaces between kitchen counters and washing machines; and behind heavy furniture, wall units and ceilings. ‘The object is to do it without scratching surfaces. A tool that has become an absolute must-carry for my crews is my awesome felt reach duster. This nifty little tool will definitely change your life and restore your faith in invention. In fact you may find yourself going back over to areas that you knowingly left undone because you thought you couldn’t do anything about the hard-to-get-to grime.

In the same family, you can try my lambs wool high duster that comes with an 11 foot telescopic extension pole. This pole will never stick on you, whether you’re extending or retracting the pole. Now, go after hi-hats and cobwebs in ceiling corners and edges. Rather than pull out step ladders, you can stand on the floor and reach all those challenging areas safely.

All of the items mentioned above can be found conveniently on my Web site at www.askcindyhow.com. Ask Cindy How is excited to launch a special on-line boutique store with tools that can truly make life easier for your house cleaning tasks. On the Web site, find videos of many of the products that demonstrate the effectiveness of my cleaning helpmates. “Let’s clean it right for the experience™.”

What an experience it can be — let’s win. FP085831

Until next time. Sincerely, Cindy

(MS) – Your kitchen actually harbors more bacteria than any other room in your home and the type of countertops you have may be making matters worse. Recent studies have found that porous material countertops can harbor dangerous bacteria, such as E. coli.

A recent University of Arizona at Tucson study identified the kitchen as the most germ-contaminated area in the home. The study reported that countertops are one of five key “hot zones,” or sites with the highest bacteria counts. These hot zones can spread infections when germs are transferred from a contaminated item (your kitchen counter) to your hands to your body.

A second study conducted by the Hospitality Institute of Technology and Management (HITM) revealed that nonporous surfaces, such stainless steel countertops or other NSF 51 certified material, are least likely to harbor dangerous bacteria, such as E. coli, when compared to other popular household countertop materials.

The HITM study tested stainless steel, granite, plastic laminate, wood, tile and concrete surfaces to see which could be cleaned and sanitized most effectively. Each surface was contaminated with E. coli, washed and rinsed with soap and water, then sanitized with a vinegar and water solution. After the sanitizing procedure, the stainless steel surface was left with the fewest number of microorganisms. The study found each countertop surface had a different capacity for resisting bacteria and easy cleaning.

The study highlighted the fact that consumers need to consider wear-and-tear when selecting a countertop surface. After a few years, most porous surfaces, such as granite, laminate, marble, wood, concrete, tile and limestone wear down; lose their protective coating, scratch, and warp — all decreasing the ability to be effectively cleaned and sanitized.

With stainless steel being very linited as a household countertop solution, other nonporous materials such as quartz are becoming more and more popular with consumers as they try to combine healthier choices with the latest designs for their homes.

‚"Quartz surfaces are growing in popularity because although they have the beautiful appearance of natural stone, unlike granite, these surfaces never need to be sealed," explained Mark Hanna, President of Leeza Distribution Inc., distributor of HanStone Fine Quartz Surfaces.

That's because Quartz countertops, such as the industry's top rated HanStone surfaces are not only highly scratch resistant, but also nonporous so they never need to be sealed. As a result, they show very little wear, will not promote the growth of mold, mildew or bacteria, and can be easily maintained for years.

HanStone quartz surfaces are so hygienic they're an approved surface for food preparation by the National Sanitation Foundation, with the NSF 51 certification in the United States. Also of great importance, HanStone is accredited with Greenguard environmental certification. Unlike stainless steel, however, HanStone quartz surfaces bring strength, resilience and extraordinary beauty and elegance to your kitchen decor with its 32 dramatic colors, vibrant patterns and luxurious sheen. More information on quartz surfaces is available at leezadistribution.com. TF084704

(MS) – If you'e in the market for a new premium countertop surface and granite seems like the obvious choice, think again. After all of your research you'll probably end up selecting the highest rated and most popular option available – quartz.

Quartz countertops are the new worry-free, elegant alternative to high-maintenance granite. They are stronger than granite, require no resealing, are highly resistant to scratches and stains, and come in a huge variety of colors.

In fact, Consumer Reports Magazine rated quartz as the top performer among countertop materials such as granite, ceramic tile, stainless steel, laminate, marble, limestone and concrete when it came to resisting prime kitchen hazards such as stains, heat and scratches.

According to the recent Freedonia Group Report on countertop industry trends, there has been a definite shift in the marketplace over the last few years as quartz has become the fastest growing market segment in the industry with 13 per cent growth compared to granite's five per cent.

Quartz surfaces are growing in popularity because they have the appearance of natural stone, but unlike granite, these surfaces never need to be sealed. Quartz is a nonporous material, which means it will not promote the growth of mold, mildew or bacteria.

In your research you will most probably stumble upon a popular brand called HanStone. "Quartz countertops have an aesthetic that can emulate the look of granite, but are also available in unique colors and surface effects not found in natural stone," explained Mark Hanna, President of Leeza Distribution Inc., distributor of HanStone Fine Quartz Surfaces.

"The benefit of quartz is that it doesn't have any of the drawbacks associated with materials such as granite."

Also of great importance, HanStone is accredited with Greenguard environmental certification.

What is quartz?

Quartz is silicon dioxide and it occurs as individual crystals and fine-grained masses in a large variety of forms, patterns, and colors. It is naturally hard and scratch resistant. Quartz actually ranks a 7.0 on Moh's Hardness Scale, which is used to measure the scratch-resistance of a material. Only diamonds, ranking 10, topaz, and sapphire are harder than quartz.

Most quartz countertops are manufactured with up to 93 percent quartz and seven percent pigments and resins. This prescribed mixture results in a product that is non-porous, exceedingly durable, and more than twice as strong as granite.

The top rated quartz surface in the industry by designers, architects and developers a like is HanStone, because it contains a higher quartz content than the norm and includes clear and multiple quartz colors, bringing greater depth, dimension and style to its surfaces.

Also of great importance HanStone is accredited with Greenguard environmental certification.

"HanStone's superior quality is clearly evident," added Hanna. "It begins with the natural elegance of quartz, and then uses advanced technology to create a product with dramatic colors, vibrant patterns and a luxurious sheen." Available in 32 colors and patterns, HanStone offers unlimited design flexibility and a beautiful addition to any setting. More information on fine quartz surfaces is available at leezadistribution.com. TF084705

(MS) – Thanks to increased manufacturer product development, quartz premium countertops are now in high demand as a must-have in new and remodeled homes and businesses throughout the country.

This trend comes as no surprise as you've probably already seen and felt quartz surfaces in homes across the country, in your local trendy coffee shops, in banks, high end restaurants, spas, salons and hotels. Quartz surfaces have been used in upscale homes around the world for more than 15 years but have more recently entered the American market in grandiose fashion.

"Quartz surfaces are experiencing incredible growth which is driven by the style, luxury and durability quartz delivers," explained Mark Hanna, President of Leeza Distribution Inc., distributor of HanStone Fine Quartz Surfaces.

According to the recent Freedonia Group Report on countertop industry trends, there has been a definite shift in the marketplace over the last few years as quartz has become the fastest growing market segment in the industry with 13 per cent growth compared to granite's five per cent.

Quartz has become the elegant answer for those who love the look of granite but are concerned about its drawbacks. Unlike granite, which can be permanently stained by cooking oils and grease, or etched by the acids in common household products, quartz is resistant to these stain hazards.

"Quartz surfaces are growing in popularity because they have the appearance of natural stone, but unlike granite, these surfaces never need to be sealed," Hanna said. "Quartz is a non-porous material, which means it will not promote the growth of mold, mildew or bacteria. This is why our HanStone surfaces are certified NSF 51 (with the National Sanitation Foundation)." Also of great importance, HanStone is accredited with Greenguard environmental certification.

And while granite is subject to unpredictable variations in color or pattern between slabs, making matching of sections of countertops difficult, quartz, is an engineered stone which is consistent in color pattern and texture.

Quartz (Silicon Dioxide) is the most common mineral on the earth's surface. It is present in nearly every geological environment and is a component of almost every rock type and exists in an impressive range of varieties of patterns and colors.

Quartz countertops are manufactured with up to 93 percent quartz and seven percent pigments and resins. This prescribed mixture results in a product that is non-porous, exceedingly durable, and more than twice as strong as granite.

The top rated quartz surface in the industry by designers, architects and developers a like is HanStone because it contains a higher quartz content than the norm and includes clear and multiple quartz colors bringing greater depth, dimension and style to its surfaces.

“HanStone is the ideal surface because it offers extraordinary beauty with twice the strength and durability of granite," explained Hanna. HanStone allows the design flexibility you need with 32 dramatic colors, vibrant patterns and a more luxurious sheen. It can be used in virtually any indoor surface application in kitchen and bathrooms, including floors, countertops, island tops and backsplashes.

Backed by a limited 10-year transferable warranty, the product promises greater strength and resilience with minimal maintenance. More information on fine quartz surfaces is available at leezadistribution.com. TF084706

(MS) – Outdated cabinets, faded countertops, tired appliances, stained flooring and tiles. Does this remind you of your kitchen? If you have not remodeled your kitchen in years, then the answer is probably a disheartened yes. But is it time for a complete kitchen makeover, or just a facelift?

The answer depends on your budget. The bad news is that a total renovation project can be very costly. The good news is that you can replace your countertops and feel as though you have a brand new kitchen.

That's because your countertop is your most visible source of color in the kitchen. If your cabinets are white or wood, then what immediately catches your eye is the surface you use the most, your countertop.

Countertops are no longer merely a work surface, but a key element in the design and luxury of your home. Much like the clothes we wear, the fashion statement of the environment we live in can either reaffirm the latest colors and styles or showcase the looks of the past. If your current countertops are dusty rose or lime green, you are long overdue for something new.

If you look at what's available you will be amazed at the selection not only of colors but textures and finishes as well. The primary goal now is to find a durable, stain-resistant and easy to clean surface that will also bring style, elegance and beauty to your kitchen.

For the past few years, the fastest growing category of premium countertops, and the one with the most allure, has been quartz because it provides the best balance of beauty, durability and style.

"Quartz countertops have the deep beautiful colors of granite without the problems and high-maintenance of porous stone," explained Mark Hanna, President of Leeza Distribution Inc., distributor of HanStone Fine Quartz Surfaces. "Through superior strength and incredible beauty quartz countertops are rapidly becoming the choice for discerning homeowners."

Quartz countertops, such as the industry's top rated HanStone surfaces, offer a sophisticated elegance and timeless beauty. They are stronger than granite and because they're nonporous they require no resealing, are highly resistant to scratches, stains, and bacteria growth and come in a huge variety of colors. Also of great importance, HanStone is accredited with Greenguard environmental certification.

In fact, HanStone quartz surfaces, a favorite of designers and developers, boasts 32 dramatic colors and patterns and can be used in virtually any indoor surfacing application in kitchens, bathrooms including floors, countertops, island tops and backsplashes.

With beautiful, elegant premium countertops garnering the envious looks of your guests, your kitchen will have a fresh new look for the fraction of the cost of a complete renovation. More information on quartz surfaces is available at leezadistribution.com. TF084707

(MS) — Mother Nature has a temper, and she’s taking it out on your lawn.
From heat waves to rainstorms to drought, 2007 will go down as one of the wackiest weather years in history. Hundreds of communities broke or tied all-time high temperature records. Some parts of the country were soaked with too much rain; other areas suffered through devastating droughts. Usually unflappable New Yorkers were astonished to see a tornado touch down in Brooklyn.

The odd weather put an extra amount of stress on many homeowners’ lawns, leaving them brown, weakened and dying. But although climate change can take a toll on a yard, there are ways to help reduce — and even reverse — the damage. Soil experts offer these three tips to help your lawn recover:

Top dress. This is a simple technique that can reap big rewards. In the spring, use a rake to spread one-quarter to one-half inch of Canadian sphagnum peat moss over the lawn. Adding peat moss helps to gradually condition the lawn throughout the year, strengthening the grass so it can resist weather damage, as well as disease, weeds and thatch. Peat moss releases water and nutrients slowly as the grass plants need it, so you won’t need to water or fertilize as frequently.

Aerate. Removing plugs of sod in the spring loosens the soil and lets water, air and fertilizer get down to the grass plant’s root structure. For smaller yards, or for concentrated trouble spots in any size yard, use a manual aerating tool that removes plugs from the turf. If you’ve got a large yard, consider renting a power aerator.
Start from scratch. Is your lawn so far gone you need to scrap it and start over? Properly preparing the soil can help lay the groundwork — literally — for a healthier, more trouble-resistant lawn. Before you seed or lay sod, dig or rototill two inches of peat moss into the top 6 inches of soil to help provide extra protection from the elements.

The next time Mother Nature unleashes a barrage of weird weather; your lawn will be better equipped to cope.

To order free brochures on “How to … with peat moss” and other gardening tips, send an unstamped, self-addressed, business-sized envelope to: Peat Moss, Box 385102, Minneapolis, MN, 55438; e-mail cspma@peatmoss.com.

The Canadian peat industry is committed to making peat moss a sustainable resource. Only one acre in every 6,000 is harvested and when harvesting stops, the bogs are restored to functioning peatlands. For more information on peat and the environment, visit the Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association’s Web site at www.peatmoss.com. GT084615

(MS) — Curb appeal. It's what many real estate professionals say is essential to selling houses. But it is also very important to homeowners who are staying put. The outdoor look of your home is what sets the stage for visitors; most homeowners want to make a good impression. That is why maintaining outdoor landscapes is high on the to-do lists of many property owners.

Gardening can be a chore or a pastime. Regardless, having tools that will make the work easier can certainly be a boon to the weekday or weekend landscaper.

Different outdoor tasks require different tools. Therefore, choosing the right tool can be confusing at times. For instance, take a pruning job — it's not as simple as just choosing any old pruner from the store's gardening section. When looking for a pruner, you want a tool that is sharp and will stay sharp, while at the same time offering ease of use and a good fit in your hand. Small hand pruners work well for branches up to 3/4" in diameter, while shears are another great pruning tool and work best on hedges, bushes and shrubs.

Ultimately you want to look for tools that possess mechanical advantage as well as ergonomic attributes that add to comfort. Ingenuity in tools can be found from Fiskars Garden and Outdoor Living, a leading manufacturer of lawn and garden tools. The company's new 2008 garden tools have really hit the mark and make shopping for the right tool easy.

Tools have changed significantly over the past few decades, most obviously in their appearance, but more importantly in their inventive designs and creative use of modern materials. By applying ergonomic design principles, Fiskars has created tools that work with your body rather than against it. An example of this design is found in their new Power Pivot line of pruners and grass shears. These tools were created to offer a more natural motion in use. The pivot of the tool has been placed in the back, enabling your two strongest fingers to do the work, leaving your hands less fatigued and providing more sensitivity and control.

Reducing fatigue allows you to work longer and more efficiently. Reduced fatigue also lets you focus on achieving that perfect curb appeal. Here are some areas to tackle for maximum impact:

• Make sure the lawn is healthy, maintained and manicured. Keep pesky weeds at bay.

• Brighten up the walkway or the entryway of the home with annual flowers in hues that complement your landscape. A pop of color looks fresh and inviting.

• Prune shrubbery and tree branches, especially if they block the view of your home. Be sure that other shrubs are manicured and look up kept.

• Paint the eaves, window frames and even the mailbox if they are looking a little worn.

To learn about more products that can make gardening work easier, visit www.fiskars.com. GT084616

(MS) — To farmers and landscape enthusiasts alike, 2007 was a year most likely to be remembered for drought. Many waited for rainfall that refused to come. For example, the U.S. Drought Monitor showed the entire state of Alabama was under drought in June 2007, with better than 20 percent of the state experiencing exceptional drought.
Such circumstances often make landscape enthusiasts cringe. While many spend spring bringing their lawns back to life after a long winter, their fears for another summer of drought are certainly looming in the back of their collective minds. Since drought is an almost inevitable foe each summer, taking a few preemptive measures before the season starts is a smart move.

• Add mulch around trees and shrubs. Mulching around trees and shrubs not only increases your landscape’s aesthetic appeal, but it can help maintain that appeal through difficult periods of drought. By removing grass from the base of trees and shrubs, you’re removing the competition for water when the summer season arrives and water is more scarce. This is especially important if your grass is bluegrass, which tends to need more water than other types of grass.

When removing the grass, replacing it with mulch can do even more than reduce the competition for water. Mulch improves soil structure while also retaining moisture for longer periods of time, making it especially valuable through long periods of drought.
• Keep trees and shrubs well groomed. While trimming the trees and shrubs can be a chore, especially during the hot summer months when drought settles in, it can also help the landscape survive summer drought. Dead or diseased branches weaken trees and shrubs, inviting insect problems (if plants haven’t already been infected) that can be difficult to get rid of even when rainfall returns. Keep trees and shrubs well pruned so as not to further weaken them when drought arrives.

• Water in the mornings. Watering in the afternoon when temperatures are at their peak might seem like the most logical time to water. After all, when the temperature is at its peak the plants are likely at their thirstiest. However, watering in the mornings limits evaporation, meaning the landscape will be getting the most out of the watering rather than having a significant amount of the water evaporate

• Tend to older trees and shrubs. Older trees and shrubs can handle drought better than new plants, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need to be tended to as much. When watering older trees and shrubs, do so slowly to allow a more deep soak and minimize water run-off. In addition, pay close attention to these older trees and shrubs, as the symptoms of drought-induced injury is often more difficult to detect in older plants. GT084622

(MS) — With the traditionally heavy home buying season just around the corner, now is the time to think about putting your house on the market. But with the housing market in a continued downturn, it’s more important than ever to choose home improvement projects that will not only add value to your home, but make it stand out in the crowd.

Brad Staggs, HGTVPro.com and DIY show producer and host, and a licensed contractor, offers tips for homeowners preparing to sell their home. “The most important thing is to update the most visible areas, common gathering rooms like the den and kitchen. But don’t forget the front and back yards! Prime home-buying season coincides with spring and summer, and that first impression, your home’s curb appeal, can make all the difference.”

1. Moulding: icing on the cake. “It’s amazing the difference a little bit of decorative wood moulding can make,” says Staggs. “Frame out a picture window, add deep crown moulding to a high ceiling, even a simple chair rail in a guest bathroom changes the entire look of a room.”

2. Front porch first impressions. Your front porch is often the first thing a potential homebuyer will see. According to Staggs, it should be in perfect shape. “Add a fresh coat of paint to brighten the front of your house. Nice wooden Adirondack-style chairs are welcoming, especially when enhanced by bright flowers in colorful pots. You want your porch to signal the start of something wonderful!”

3. Look behind you. Don’t neglect the backyard! Outdoor living spaces grow in popularity each year. Impress potential homebuyers with a backyard to die for: overflowing garden boxes, some nice wooden outdoor furniture, a charming gazebo and perhaps a new deck. “Spend a few weekends dressing up your backyard before everything blooms,” suggests Staggs.

4. Floor them. Nothing says “welcome home” like the feel of smooth real wood floors. Easily installed and completely affordable, wood floors enhance any decorating style and evoke immediate “ahhhhs” from guests in your home.

5. Add a visual surprise. “Find something cool to add to a room in your home, a little visual pop no one will expect,” suggests Staggs. “Like adding beadboard panels to a kitchen island, then painting it a funky accent color.”

Staggs also offers his thoughts on choosing appropriate building materials. “As a consumer, the most important thing you can do is buy sustainable. Choose natural building products, those that truly fit the definition of “green.” One of my favorite materials to use in any home improvement project is Southern Pine. It’s real wood, so it’s not just strong and beautiful, it’s also recyclable. Southern Pine in the U.S. comes from well-managed and well-maintained forests; forests that are in better health now than they were a century ago!”

For project plans and ideas, inspirational color photographs and sustainability information, please visit SPAN — the Southern Pine Awareness Network at www.spanpine.com. GT084606

(MS) — A good foundation is the most important ingredient of any endeavor. Whether dancing, writing, building, or gardening, a strong, well-prepared foundation is the key to success. Just try writing a novel without solid language skills, or singing an opera without having mastered your scales.

Creating a garden is much the same. Only in gardening, good soil is the foundation you need before you can create landscape masterpieces.

Most garden plants long for luxurious loamy soil. “Fit” soil — soil that is full of organic material, of near neutral pH, and with the capacity for good drainage — produces healthy, better-looking plants. Soil this fit, however, is unusual in the United States; it must be made.