Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Home and Curb Appeal -- Spring Gardening Tips
Spring gardening - Home and Curb Appeal
Spring Gardening Tips- Up Your Curbside Appeal
Garden season is here, and though it may be the number one hobby in America, it isn't for sissies. Gardening is touch on the hands, skin and back. Follow the tips outlined below for a welcoming garden that's filled with color!
Every season brings a different set of chores in the garden. Spring is an exciting time for gardeners as preparations are made for the bounty and beauty of the garden as it awakes from winter hibernation. It can also, however, be a bit overwhelming to know how to prioritize your gardening time at this time of year.Tip #1: Wear long sleeves, pants, a hat, and gloves. And, even though that grass feels great between your toes, closed-toe shoes and sunscreen are a must. Bend and lift with your knees and not your back to ensure you do not injure yourself.
Tip #2: Curb your enthusiasm. Take breaks in the shade, drink lots of water, and periodically slather on the sunscreen.
Tip #3: Even though it is tedious...know the following: Have a plan for your garden, know your soil type, know your cold hardiness zone. Without this information you will waste money, time and effort of purchasing what will grow best. Also note what areas are sunny and which are shady so that you can buy the plants that grow well in those light conditions.
Tip #4: Add a focal point to your landscape to up the curb appeal and add design in your front yard space. Focal points can be anything from a row of flowering shrubs to a stunning tree.
Tip #5: Apply the "1/3 Rule." Purchase three plants, all perfect for your spot, because one will die, one will barely survive, and one will thrive. Plan on it.
Tip #6: Make sure you have all the right tools in order. Send the mower and leaf blower in for servicing. Tie red ribbon onto your hand tools so that you can find them again once they get buried in a pile of leaves or weeds. Take an inventory and make sure you have everything you need before you start a project
Tip #7: Prune trees and shrubs, remove dead, damaged and diseased branches from woody plants, thin and trim summer blooming shrubs, prune cold-damaged wood after plants resume spring growth, trim spring blooming shrubs and trees after flowering....weed, weed, weed...
Tip #8: Fertilize and mulch beds and borders. Spring is also a good time to fertilize fruit trees. If you applied heavy winter mulch for protection from the cold, you will need to clear it away.
Tip #9: Stake plants that may be prone to wind damage during the unpredictable spring weather.
Tip #10: Spring is the best time to start a new lawn from seed. For established lawns, you should start mowing in the spring, but don't initially cut the grass very short for the first few times.
Tip #11: Place a soap dish and towel holder beside the outside water spigot so you can wash your hands, arms, and neck several times a day. And before you crack open that end-of-the-gardening-day beverage, shower like you mean it. Good, old-fashioned soap does wonders for washing away the dirt, poison ivy, and who knows what else.
Of course, whether you start these chores in early, mid, or late spring depends on the climate where you live, taking in to account such factors as when the threat of frost has past or when the ground is thawed enough to dig. I hope these tips will give you a good idea as to where to focus your attention in your garden this spring. Enjoy!
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Monday, April 11, 2011
Are you in the DOG house?
Does your house smell like D-O-G? If so, it may be the reason it hasn’t sold.
I recently stopped into an Open House to check out a home that’s been on the market for nearly a year.
It has gone through numerous price reductions and at least 2 Realtors that I’m aware of. When I walked in the door, I was assaulted by an overpowering “sting” of chemical cover-up which, in my case, means an instant headache, watery eyes and a frantic urge to get out as fast as possible.
Not to mention the intense annoyance of having to breathe toxic air because someone is trying to hide s-t-i-n-k!! GACK!
What I discovered during my “tour” was a wall full of dog leashes, pet food bowls and a “turtle room” – an entire bedroom being used to house turtle aquariums and heat lamps. Hello? What part of getting a house ready to sell doesn’t this agent understand?
The “apple pie”candles, sickeningly sweet incense and “gag-me” air fresheners were obviously being used to try to cover up dog odor and pet stink.
My personal reaction? What else are they trying to hide?
Sadly, this house will probably still be on the market in a year from now.
What would I do? The first thing I’d do is tell the sellers the truth.
The dog odor and turtle room have to GO. No one is going to buy a bedroom they can’t see and no one is going to buy a house that smells like a kennel…unless the price is so compelling that they can afford to do what the sellers need to do:
I recently stopped into an Open House to check out a home that’s been on the market for nearly a year.
It has gone through numerous price reductions and at least 2 Realtors that I’m aware of. When I walked in the door, I was assaulted by an overpowering “sting” of chemical cover-up which, in my case, means an instant headache, watery eyes and a frantic urge to get out as fast as possible.
Not to mention the intense annoyance of having to breathe toxic air because someone is trying to hide s-t-i-n-k!! GACK!
What I discovered during my “tour” was a wall full of dog leashes, pet food bowls and a “turtle room” – an entire bedroom being used to house turtle aquariums and heat lamps. Hello? What part of getting a house ready to sell doesn’t this agent understand?
The “apple pie”candles, sickeningly sweet incense and “gag-me” air fresheners were obviously being used to try to cover up dog odor and pet stink.
My personal reaction? What else are they trying to hide?
Sadly, this house will probably still be on the market in a year from now.
What would I do? The first thing I’d do is tell the sellers the truth.
The dog odor and turtle room have to GO. No one is going to buy a bedroom they can’t see and no one is going to buy a house that smells like a kennel…unless the price is so compelling that they can afford to do what the sellers need to do:
1. Replace all carpet (steam cleaning actually brings the dog smell up to the surface and makes it more intense)
2. Have the duct work professionally cleaned and ozone treated
3. Clean all cupboards inside and out
4. Paint all wall surfaces
5. If tile is present, have it professionally cleaned
Moral of the story? Buyers want to see and smell clean. They don’t want to see a zoo or smell “Eau de dog cover-up.” Never try to disguise pet odor with chemical deodorizers. Give the house a bath and make sure it scrubs behind it’s ears!
Looking buy or sell real estate in Waukesha County or surrounding areas?
Contact your favorite Wisconsin real estate agent!
Proudly Serving Southcentral and Southeastern Wisconsin with Referrals from my Clients
Look for properties across Wisconsin on MLS at http://www.lisabear.com
Check me out on Facebook:
Check out my Blogs!
Need more advice -- HOME and CURB APPEAL LLC can help!
STAGE to SELL or DESIGN to DWELL
262-893-5555
homeandcurbappeal@gmail.com
STAGE to SELL or DESIGN to DWELL
262-893-5555
homeandcurbappeal@gmail.com
Looking buy or sell real estate in Waukesha County or surrounding areas?
Contact your favorite Wisconsin real estate agent!
Proudly Serving Southcentral and Southeastern Wisconsin with Referrals from my Clients
Look for properties across Wisconsin on MLS at http://www.lisabear.com
Check me out on Facebook:
Check out my Blogs!
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Remove Stains From Walls Before You Paint
Remove stains from walls before you slap on another coat: It’s the first commandment of painting. Here’s how to wash seven common stains off your walls.
Painting instructions often warn: Remove stains from walls before painting. But they never say how. Any cleaning rookie can wipe off dust and cobwebs. But it takes a cleaning pro to scour grease stains, watermarks, and kids’ crayon and ink wall art.Dirt and grime
Dirt and grime are part of everyday life. The oil from your hands gets onto walls, cabinets, doors, and door frames. Mr. Clean Magic Eraser ($3 for 4 pads) easily cuts through these stains. Wet the sponge and rub gently to avoid taking bits of paint off with the stain.Or try this: Mix 1 cup ammonia, ½ cup white distilled or apple cider vinegar, and ¼ cup baking soda with one gallon of warm water. Wipe the solution over walls with a sponge or cloth, and rinse with clear water. The solution won’t dull the painted finish or leave streaks.
Grease
Grease is an occupational hazard of cooking; it covers cabinets and walls and attracts dirt and dust. Any good dish soap can remove grease stains on walls. For small stains, mix ¼ teaspoon of soap in a cup of warm water, and wipe. Rinse with clean water, and blot until dry. Clean stubborn grease stains with solution of 1/3 cup of white house hold vinegar with 2/3 cup of water.Crayons
Wall erasers work like a charm on crayon marks. If they don’t do the trick:- Rub marks with toothpaste (not gel).
- Erase marks with an art gum or a pencil eraser; use a circular motion.
- Swipe marks with baby wipes.
- Sprinkle baking soda on a damp sponge and scrub marks.
Permanent marker
Permanent markers are tough to remove from walls. Soak a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol and dab the stain. Or spray marks with hairspray, then wipe drips.Ink
Ballpoint ink, which is oil-based, often succumbs to foaming shaving cream, dry-cleaning solvent such as Carbona, or nail polish remover. Make sure you open windows when using cleaning solvents and polish remover.Mildew
Mildew is a fungus that eats soap scum and body oil. To remove from walls, spray with vinegar water: 1 tablespoon white vinegar to 1 quart water. Also, try an enzyme laundry detergent; follow the pre-treating directions on the label. Blot it on the stain, and then rinse thoroughly with water.Water stains
After you’ve solved the problem that caused the water stains, rinse with a solution of 1 cup bleach to 1 gallon of water to prevent mold and mildew from growing. Thoroughly dry with a hairdryer or fans. If bleaching doesn’t remove water stains, you’ll have to repaint. Prime the walls with a stain-killing primer, such as Kilz Paint.Need more advice -- HOME and CURB APPEAL LLC can help!
STAGE to SELL or DESIGN to DWELL
262-893-5555
homeandcurbappeal@gmail.com
STAGE to SELL or DESIGN to DWELL
262-893-5555
homeandcurbappeal@gmail.com
Looking buy or sell real estate in Waukesha County or surrounding areas? Contact your favorite Wisconsin real estate agent!
Proudly Serving Southcentral and Southeastern Wisconsin with Referrals from my Clients
Look for properties across Wisconsin on MLS at http://www.lisabear.com
Check me out on Facebook:
Check out my Blogs!
By: Pat Curry- House Logic
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Color and Lighting
Paint Color and Lighting: Tips and Information
Focus on artificial lighting, as opposed to natural light and how it affects paint color. Natural light definitely affects the way a color on the wall is viewed. The color will look differently at various times of the day, and the exposure of the room, i.e., north, south, west and east, will also affect our perception of the color. That is why it's important to paint a small swatch of color on the wall, and then view it at various times of the day before making a color choice.
Here are some interesting tips•· When choosing a color, paint a small swatch against a gray surface.
•· Look at a color vertically against the wall, not horizontally in your hand.
•· Two colors that may appear to match in one light source may not match under another light source. This is known as metamerism.
•· Look for a Light Reflective Value (LRV) of 50% or more in paint to be used for residential interiors. LRV is the amount of light reflected from a painted surface (0% is the blackest black and 100% is the whitest white).
•· When choosing a light bulb, try to get a Color Ranking Index (CRI) of 80% to 85% in order to show true and saturated colors.
•· Incandescent light bulbs have a CRI of 100% but unfortunately will be phased out of production by 2014.
•· Halogen light bulbs have the next highest CRI but they too will probably go the way of incandescent bulbs.
•· Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulbs have a lower quality of CRI - 75%.
•· LEDs are the newest form of lighting but have a very low CRI. However, they are great for outdoor lighting.
Need more advice -- HOME and CURB APPEAL LLC can help!
262-893-5555
homeandcurbappeal@gmail.com
262-893-5555
homeandcurbappeal@gmail.com
Looking buy or sell real estate in Waukesha County or surrounding areas? Contact your favorite Wisconsin real estate agent!
262-893-5555 Office/Cell
Proudly Serving Southcentral and Southeastern Wisconsin with Referrals from my Clients
Look for properties across Wisconsin on MLS at http://www.lisabear.com
Check me out on Facebook:
Check out my Blogs!
Copyright 2011 Designed to Appeal, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Things looking a little SHADY to you?
The Use Of Shades As Home Decoration
Vertical blinds can add style to any room. Depending on the look you’d like to create, you have a multitude of choices as far as style, color and texture. These blinds provide a simple, low maintenance, affordable way to add interest to windows and doors in your home. Each provides a different look and feel for a room. It’s important to know what kind of mood you’re looking to capture before you make a selection.
The advent of technology and choices has afforded buyers with more choices than ever before. Blinds are no longer offered in just one size, color and material. You can find them made of PVC, wood and metal. They’ve evolved in their operating mechanisms. Some are even automatic, which is convenient for the elderly or those unable to manage operating them manually.
Blinds are not just for offices anymore. They started to appear in the home as efficient covers for patio doors, but now their use has spread to anywhere you’d use regular shades. Bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms and kitchens now sport vertical blinds as window coverings. Printed, fabric covered, colored or textured, blinds can help you bring a room together. And installation is simple. You can do it yourself, or call a professional.
Each room can have its own feel, due in part to the colors and styles of the blinds used. They can also be dressed up and layered with curtains and valances. They can be used as decoration by being covered in fabric that matches or accents other items in the room, or they can be subtle, and offset with a valance that matches the room d้cor.
They can be long or short. They can work to visually adjust the size and shape of the window through the size you purchase. You can make a window appear larger by mounting the blinds to hang wider and/or longer than the actual window.
They’re great for controlling the light that is coming into the room. They can be slightly opened to admit a limited amount of sunlight, or they can be drawn to the side to expose the entire window. They can also help somewhat in blocking drafts emitting from cracks around windows and doors. This can ultimately help with energy efficiency.
With all the options available, you don’t have to choose just one. Whichever blinds you select, you can be assured you made the right choice.
Need more advice -- HOME and CURB APPEAL LLC can help! 262-893-5555
homeandcurbappeal@gmail.com
homeandcurbappeal@gmail.com
Looking buy or sell real estate in Waukesha County or surrounding areas? Contact your favorite Wisconsin real estate agent!
262-893-5555 Office/Cell
Proudly Serving Southcentral and Southeastern Wisconsin with Referrals from my Clients
Look for properties across Wisconsin on MLS at http://www.lisabear.com
Check me out on Facebook:
Check out my Blogs!
Author : Eric J. Slarkowski
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