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Build the best house on the street (NC)—  Claiming to have the best house is probably in the eye of the beholder, but most of us can agree that achieving descriptions such as beautiful, responsible, and cost-efficient – plus boundless growth in the resale value – is a very big part of a homeowner's dream. So when it comes to insisting on the best from your building team, be sure to investigate all the advancements in construction technology. “You can certainly combine beauty with maximum environmental- and cost-efficiency,” says Todd Blyth at Nudura, a leading name in building technology. “For example, when driving in a residential neighbourhood is it the more majestic stone- and-concrete homes that often catch your eye? A break from the ordinary brick dwelling is beautiful indeed, but did you know that concrete walls are likely to be twice as energy efficient?” Steadily over the past decade, a specialized concrete system for building walls is replacing the traditional wood 'stick' method. Selected for homes and commercial buildings alike, the Nudura system has been given 'thumbs up' by LEED—Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, an international benchmark for sustainable high performance buildings. “This type of building envelope is also a key component in the future of 'net zero' buildings and homes,” Blyth continued. “Net-zero is a term for the amount of energy that future homes will tap from public utilities—and that amount is, none.” The technology (www.nudura.com) consists of pre-assembled, interlocking forms delivered to the construction site. “Each form is designed with two, stay in place panels of polystyrene connected with a hinged folding web, making transportation and assembly efficient and easy with no waste,” Blyth explained. “The forms (like Lego) are stacked, reinforced, and then filled with concrete, creating the industry's strongest walls. “And the benefits are quite pronounced for all involved. The architects get unlimited design possibilities. The builders and contractors save valuable construction time; and the environmentally responsible owner gets an eye-catching home with even more benefits. “Energy bills have been shown to drop by as much as 70 percent,” he continued, “and this type of concrete building envelope is twice as efficient as stick-frame walls. Your home will also be far less prone to wood rot, mustiness and mould – and be up to three times more sound resistant, four times more fire resistant, and up to nine times stronger without drafts and cold spots.” Home inventories add peace of mind (NC)— Every day we see news reports of homes being destroyed by fire or devastated by flood waters. Even more numerous are the unpublicized instances of break-ins and home thefts. For the most part, these accounts fade into the background as we think to ourselves –“it's okay, I have insurance.” And while the peace of mind that property insurance provides allows us all to sleep at night, most don't realize what a traumatic experience these events can be. “Trying to remember all of the items in your home can add to an already stressful event. Having an inventory of items in your home is one of the best ways to prepare yourself,” states Wayne Ross, insurance and claims expert with Aviva Canada. “Besides helping ensure you have the right amount of insurance, an inventory will help settle your insurance claim faster.” Sure, but who has time to go through every item in their home? The task need not be onerous and can be as easy as taking a video account of each room in your home. Many insurance companies also prepare content lists that can act as a helpful starting point. A list from AvivaCanada.com recommends separating the contents into categories: • Clothing, books, tools, toys, bicycles, and other items • Jewelry, silverware and other valuables • Computer equipment, gaming consoles and software Whether you conduct a video or written inventory of your home, don't forget to keep your inventory in a safety deposit box or at a trusted home. That way you'll be sure to have something to give your insurance representative if your home is damaged. You should also keep a record of legal documents, such as birth certificates and passports, and financial documents, such as bank account and insurance policies on your inventory. More information is available from your insurance broker or online at www.avivacanada.com and at 1-866-My Aviva (692-8482). Spring cleaning with lasting impact (NC)—  Spring is in full swing, and many Canadians are preparing to wash their walls, vacuum their carpets, scour their shower stalls and re-organize their living spaces. For many homeowners, spring cleaning is a ritual that happens once a year, and it's the perfect opportunity to get their affairs in order and feel good about the space where they live. By having a game plan and investing in the right tools, spring cleaning can be a step towards a better living space in the long run. For a spring cleaning project with a lasting impact, consider the following three steps: The first step in a successful spring cleaning project involves taking stock of virtually everything in your home - your furniture, decorations and papers - and determining what you need to keep and what you can discard. Be sure to allocate the right amount of time to do a proper inventory, and don't forget to have extra boxes, recycling bins and garbage bags on hand to quickly discard unwanted items. Go through drawers, garage and storerooms - everywhere clutter accumulates. Ask yourself what you really need to keep and what can be given away, recycled or thrown out. Better yet, why not organize a yard sale to sell the items no longer needed? Once you've determined what items will be kept, set up a storage and filing system that will be easy to stick to. Organize items into categories before storing them in boxes, containers and file folders, and label them using a colour-coded system that assigns a different colour to each category (green for financial records, blue for winter clothing, red for camping and sports equipment, etc.) A good electronic labeller will be extremely useful during this process. The P-touch labeller from Brother, for example, is an affordable tool that can be found in office supply stores or online at brother.ca. When the popular P-touch brand was launched in 1988, Brother patented an exclusive line-up of laminated tapes that are available in a variety of colours and styles to make identification as easy as possible. “Our handheld P-touch labellers are compact and functional for on-the-go needs, which make them ideal for home organization,” says Marc Ruel, Home Office Expert at Brother Canada. In addition to labelling boxes and files, don't forget to label other objects that are likely to be moved, displaced or shared. This includes computer and other electronic equipment (cords, consoles and other hardware), children's items (backpacks, lunch boxes and sports equipment), clothing and more. Labelled items are less likely to be lost or displaced, which makes for a cleaner and better-organized living space all year long. |
Buying a printer 101 (NC)—   Whether it's a high-tech laser model for big-ticket office jobs or a portable desktop machine for printing photos at home, a quality printer is an invaluable tool. The right printer can be cost-effective, environmentally-friendly and, most important, a resource that prevents hours of headaches and frustration. According to Marc Ruel, Home Office Expert at Brother Canada, a company that specializes in equipment for small and home offices, the key to selecting the right printer involves making a checklist and doing the required research. “Your choice of printer depends on the kind of work you expect to do, what you plan to print, how many users your printer needs to accommodate, and how much you're willing to spend,” he said. • Determine what you will print most often: documents, charts, pictures, or all of the above. This will help you determine the quality of printer you require. For example, if you typically print documents with a lot of text, pick a laser printer that will deliver a high print speed for only a few cents per page. If your print jobs will often incorporate graphics and colour images, you could opt for a colour laser printer. If you mainly print photos, an inkjet printer is the best option. Check out the manufacturer's Web site for more details about the benefits of the various models. Brother.ca, for example, has a special section that explains the differences between laser, colour and inkjet printers and the benefits of each. • Calculate how many people will use the printer. This will determine how fast the printer needs to be. Print speed is measured in pages per minute, which is listed by the manufacturer. Inkjet printers, for example, are not as fast as laser printers but will suit your needs if your printing volume is not significant. If you have a small workgroup that needs to share a printer, look for one with networking and expandability features. • Determine if you need a printer that also goes the extra mile by delivering copying, scanning, fax and wireless networking functions. Depending on your requirements, investing in a multi-function centre could be the optimal approach. Since a multi-function centre combines several pieces of equipment in one machine, it can also save on both space and money. Once you've identified the printer that meets your criteria, the final step involves carefully reviewing the type of customer support that comes with the printer. Look for a manufacturer that will provide a replacement machine in the event of technical difficulty. Other important customer service features to look for include complimentary toll free telephone support, as well as around-the-clock online support. The buzz on bees and wasps (NC)—  When warm weather sets in, it's usually our first instinct to head outdoors – but then you hear it… a soft buzzing sound that will instantly send you running back inside. The panic that sets in when a bee or wasp buzzes nearby happens for good reason – they're dangerous. Reactions to insect stings can cause infection at the site of the sting, difficulty breathing and severe to deadly allergic reactions. While both bees and wasps are beneficial to the environment, clashes with humans can happen if the insects feel threatened. “Bees away from the hive aren't likely to be aggressive, if left undisturbed” says Bill Melville, a 35-year pest management veteran and director of quality assurance for Orkin PCO Services. “However, stay away from hive entrances as bees guarding food stores and young are much more likely to sting.” Though bees do sting, people often confuse them with yellow jacket wasps. Unlike a bee, which can only sting once, yellow jackets can sting multiple times. Over time, some people can develop increased sensitivity to their stings, with future stings becoming life threatening. To prevent run-ins with bees and wasps while outdoors, the experts at Orkin PCO Services recommend limiting their access to any water and food sources, especially those containing sugar. When picnicking outdoors, keep food in tightly sealed containers and cover pop cans as yellow jackets often enter cans unseen. Think about other potential food sources as well – for example, regularly empty and wash garbage cans, which can contain pest-attracting residues. Position flowering plants away from places you frequent, such as doorways, walkways, decks and mailboxes. Keep your lawn free of bee attractors like white clover and flowering weeds. To prevent stinging pests from making their way inside, fit screens and tighten seals properly on doors and windows. Frequently monitor for hives and nests around your home, and call a licensed pest control professional immediately for treatment and removal if you notice one. Does your home have a dirty little secret? (NC)— There are certain things that homeowners love to talk about and sewage back-up isn't one of them. Yet as spring showers pour, unsuspecting homeowners all over Canada will experience this often-ignored problem. This time of year ushers in an increased number of sewage back-up related insurance claims, making water-related damage one of the most common homeowner claims in Canada. • Check your insurance policy: Damages from sewer back-ups are not covered by most standard home insurance policies, but can be added to your home insurance coverage for as little as $20 per year. When you consider the amount of money many families are putting into their finished basements, the added cost is worth the piece of mind. • Install a backwater valve: These tools close automatically if the sewer backs-up and can prevent thousands of dollars in damage. The installation costs can be quite reasonable when you consider the aggravation involved in having your basement cleaned and repaired. Some cities even have subsidy programs for the installation of backwater valves and sump pumps. But make sure you check with your municipality before moving ahead with an installation, as some areas do not allow backwater valves due to the strain they put on the infrastructure. • Watch what you pour: Dumping fats, oils or grease in the drain can cause blockage in your pipes. • Garden carefully: If planting trees on your property, find out from the municipality where your sewer lines are and plant away from the area. Tree roots are known to crack pipes. More information is available from your insurance broker or online at www.avivacanada.com and at 1-866-My Aviva (692-8482). |
Gardening 101 (NC)— The weather is getting warm, and while you've entertained the idea of gardening, you may not think you have what it takes. You too can garden once you know what you're doing. Gardening is a fulfilling hobby and great exercise too. The Home Depot offers you the following Gardening 101 three-step checklist to set you on the path to greening your thumbs this spring season. There are six basic tools a beginner needs to get started: a spading fork, a hoe, a watering can, a round-ended shovel, a bow rake, and a set of garden shears. All of these tools can be purchased for less than $150. While you can always add to your toolbox later, these basic tools will take you far. Before you start picking plants, pre-investigate your outdoor space so you have all the right information at your fingertips. Do you have a small or large space? Measure it and bring the dimensions with you for clarity. Is your space sun-drenched or shade-covered? This will directly impact the plants you choose. Do you want plants that will last year after year or for a single season only? This will determine whether you select perennials or annuals. Ask for assistance while you're shopping. Between The Home Depot's exclusive line of Optimum plants and the expertise of its garden centre associates, you'll be set before you know it. Once you have your toolkit and your plants, get outside and have fun. Gardening is a productive activity in every way. Not only can you beautify your home while reducing stress and getting exercise, you can also enjoy the fruits of your work throughout the season, whether it's with a beautiful landscape, fresh flowers or delicious vegetables and fruits. Follow these simple steps and you will be a master gardener in no time. More information on plants, projects or products can be found at The Home Depot garden centre nearest you or online at www.homedepot.ca/gardencentre. Mother's Day gifts with a personal touch (NC)—  Flowers. Spa days. Lavish dinners. On Mother's Day, there are a variety of ways to recognize the special women who have made a difference in our lives. In fact, a recent study conducted by Yahoo indicated that over 85 percent of consumers celebrate the second Sunday in May, spending billions of dollars on gifts. Times are changing, however, and many experts are noticing an increased trend towards Mother's Day gifts with a more personal touch. According to Shelli Gardner, CEO and co-founder of crafting company Stampin' Up!, a growing number of Canadians are choosing handmade or personalized Mother's Day gifts that were created especially for the receiver. “Showing your love and appreciation for Mom doesn't have to cost a fortune,” said Gardner. “The gift with the greatest impact, the one that shows you truly wanted to make someone feel special, is the one you make yourself.” Gardner suggests the following Mother's Day gift ideas for creative types: Handmade cards: Creating a unique do-it-yourself Mother's Day card can be as simple as gathering coloured paper, punches and rubber stamps, or investing in a ready-made cardmaking kit that includes all required supplies. Include favourite photos, phrases, and colours, and don't be afraid to get decorative with ribbons and other accessories. Personalized jewellery: There was a time when handmade Mother's Day jewellery meant paper-clip necklaces and other grade school art projects, but there are some new options available that make it easy for creative types of all ages to create professional-quality customized necklaces, bracelets and other adornments. Consider taking a class at a local studio, or invest in a kit like Stampin' Up!'s Simply Adorned collection, which includes chains, bracelets and locket-style charms (visit stampinup.ca for information about where to buy). For example, consider adding an antique-style charm with a favourite childhood photo to a necklace chain for a keepsake that will be (literally) close to Mom's heart. Mother's Day scrapbook: The entire family can get together to pool favourite photos, vacation mementos and other special souvenirs to create a special Mother's Day scrapbook. Work with a traditional album and crafting materials or go high-tech and try an option like My Digital Studio, an easy-to-use software-based design studio that features thousands of exclusive images, colours, and accessories. A kitchen renovation is delightful in spring(NC)—  Spring – the time of renewal – is a time to freshen up your home. Many Canadian homeowners may be inspired to tackle a renovation project, such as a kitchen upgrade. The focal point of your home, the kitchen is where we have family dinners or drinks with friends, or catch up with our loved ones over a morning coffee. There are simple ways to make your kitchen more comfortable and inviting for all. “A kitchen is important to homeowners because it is central to all types of social interaction,” says Cheryl West, insulation expert at Owens Corning. “Homeowners want this reflected in the comfort and overall ambiance of this often neglected living space.” When renovating your kitchen, keep in mind these tips. Stick to basics. Keep minimal appliances. Clear clutter, and think twice before you add another decorative detail. Make sure there is quality living space in your kitchen that you can enjoy with your family and friends. And while you're at it, don't forget about upgrading insulation. There is nothing more inviting than a warm, quiet and comfortable kitchen, and that's what you can achieve by upgrading your insulation. Owens Corning QuietZone® acoustic batts will help minimize noise and prevent sounds from the dishwasher drifting up to the bedrooms. But that's not all. With PINK™ FIBERGLAS® insulation products, made from over 70* per cent recycled content, you will help turn waste into useable products and protect the environment. And it only gets better. Government grants and incentives available to homeowners for energy-efficient renovations can help you save even more. Federal and provincial governments as well as some energy utilities offer funding for energy-efficient renovations. With all these reasons to update your kitchen, stop waiting and start renovating. More information on grants and incentives can be found online at www.showmethegreen.ca . More information about how to insulate is available at www.owenscorning.ca. * Over 70%* recycled content, based on the average recycled glass content in all Owens Corning fiberglass batts, rolls and unbonded loosefill insulation manufactured in Canada. The colour PINK is a registered trademark of Owens Corning ©2010 Owens Corning. All Rights Reserved. |
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