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OCTOBER 2011OCTOBER 2011

I N S I D E T H I S I S S U E :

Make it cosy and colourfulMake it cosy and colourful

FALL FOR STYLEFALL FOR STYLE

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KEEP PESTS OUT

A30 - North Shore News - Sunday, October 23, 2011

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RENOVATEMySpaceA D V E R T I S E M E N T

Changing municipal building codes and alterations in taxation have affected many parts of the economy, and the home renovation sector is no exception.

John Friswell of North Vancouver’s CCI Renovations, has witnessed the results.

“What the HST did was show all the tax being paid on a renovation in one line,” said Friswell. “This can defi nitely have a negative impact on what people see as value in a renovation and can drive them to look at the underground economy where contractors are not paying for taxes, liability insurance or WorkSafe coverage.”

Fortunately, a new government program on the horizon might actually help home owners.

“The federal government is re-opening the ecoENERGY Retrofi t program,” said Friswell. “This is a great way to save some money on energy upgrades to your home.The provincial government’s Live Smart program can be piggy backed on the Federal program for extra savings. It helps home owners tackle leaky and ineffi cient homes and makes a huge difference in the emissions of green house gas. You also save money in the long term by spending less on energy.”

As concerns grow over energy effi ciency and environmental impact, keeping up to date is crucial for home renovators and CCI is at the forefront.

“Everyone is being bombarded with the changes happening to our globe and to the people around them. It is our duty to keep up with the science around all of this as well as all of the products that can and should be used. There is a long way to go on this front but we are making progress.”

There are a number of ways you can factor reduced environmental impact into your renovation plans.

Renovating In A Time Of Change“There is a lot that can be done in the kitchen, from eco-tile and non off-gassing sustainable woods and fi nishes to installing recycling and composting facilities. Using Energy Star appliances, effi ciently planned storage spaces, manufactured stone countertops, effi cient lighting and lighting controls are a few other ways that we can go.”

If you’re looking at planning a renovation, there is a program that can help you assess your project’s impact before you begin building.

“Another avenue the homeowner can pursue is the registration of the renovation – kitchen or whatever

– into the Built Green program. A rating is now possible on any aspect of a renovation and helps the homeowner plan the green aspects of future renovations.”

John also practices what he preaches. CCI is moving to a new showroom where you can see many of the programs they recommend in action.

“We are setting our new offi ce up to provide a showroom that will allow our clients the ability to see what the items we recommend look like and how they function. It will also refl ect the style and quality that our customers have come to expect. We will be using energy

effi cient heating, cooling and lighting, installing a heat recovery unit to help circulate air within the whole space – to mention a few of the greener choices we are making ourselves.”

Whether it’s your home or offi ce, how the fi nished project improves the lives of the people who use the space is the most important benefi t.

“We are also installing a small gym with shower facilities to allow us the time to burn off some steam and keep healthy while we work – a huge factor in keeping everyone happy and on their game.”

If you’re looking at renovating and want to talk to someone who understands how to get you the most effi cient result, call John and CCI at 604-980-8384.

“

”

As concerns grow over

energy effi ciency and environmental

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Sunday, October 23, 2011 - at home - A31

Many homeowners want to introduce pattern to their rooms but don’t know where to start. They may wonder if two patterns match or how to determine scale. It may take a little practice,but using pattern is easier than onemay think. Nothing adds visual interest to a room more than pattern and colour. While homeowners may have the knack with colour, they often shy away from pattern. But you can trust their instincts — they’re usually right. For those who have mastered pattern with their wardrobes, it’s time to try out some pattern in home design.

Not every pattern should be the same size and variety, otherwise things can look too matched and staged. Try varying patterns of similar colours but experiment with size. For example, place a largely patterned area rug on the floor. An ottoman may feature a medium-sized pattern. Mix things up by alternating throw pillows in a floral or paisley print with subtle stripes. However, make sure the texture of the fabrics match. Gauzy curtains with heavy chenille pillows may clash.

When selecting patterned items, choose similarly coloured items. This way even if the fabrics or patterns aren’t exactly the same, they’ll look cohesive through colour. For a room to feel a bit more upbeat, consider complementary opposite colours. If you prefer a more restful atmosphere,

Try out pattern, even if it is only on an accent chair in one room of the house. It can add visual dimension to a space.

try a palette of colours from the same family — just vary the intensity of the shades.

Homeowners who have gained some pattern confidence may want to strike out on their own to create a room that is unique. Those who still need a little help may want to consider taking the path of designers before them. There are certain patterns and fabrics that have already been established as working together for certain design styles. Here are a few.

American Southwest: Navajo patterns are at the forefront of this design style and can be used

on upholstery or pillows. Use a smaller-scale stripe on window treatments.

Solid-shaded throw pillows in a complementary colour to the

Navajo pattern will coordinate well.

English country: This style is about large-scale chintz on sofa and draperies. Mix in narrow-striped, slip-covered lounge

chairs for a little extra panache.

American country: A small floral print on the sofa or comforter can

be offset with a large country quilt pattern hung on the wall as a wall treatment. Checkerboard checks, medium stripes on draperies or select crocheted valences coordinate well.

18th century: Lavish patterned fabrics in chintz or paisley featuring golds and robin’s egg blue are just some of the options for classic decorating.

Modern: Mix stripes and geometric-patterned items in splashes of color to add a modern feel to a room. Individuals can experiment with patterns to make a room more personalized and less of a neutral blank page. If it proves difficult to come up with patterns that work together, look at design magazines or books for some inspiration.

Test Patterns: Try mixing it up

Varyingpattern size

addsdimension to

a room

A32 - at home - Sunday, October 23, 2011

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The FANS Society presentsThe Mayors’ Tribute to the Arts

A benefi t for the Fund for the Arts on the North Shorewith Mayors Goldsmith-Jones, Mussatto & Walton

Wednesday,October 26, 2011 7pmBistro Chez Michel

224 Esplanade West, North Vancouver

2011 FANS Distinguished Artist Recognition AwardANNA WYMAN

Veena Sood, Master of Ceremonies

Tickets $25 | Appetizers and Cash BarPhone 604-990-4712 | store187@theupsstore.ca

Fall is the time to get your home ready for the coming winter,which can be the most gruelling season for your house.

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) suggests you perform a variety of tasks which will help you to avoid the most common—and costly—problems before they occur. Here are some examples:

Ensure that downspouts

direct water away from the house

foundation.

• Ensure leaves and other debris are

removed from eaves, troughs and

downspouts for proper drainage from the

roof.

• If you have a gas, oil, or other non-

electric heating system, have it serviced

by a qualified company (every two years

for a gas furnace and every year for an

oil furnace or in accordance with the

manufacturer’s instructions).

• Have the chimneys or combustion vents checked for nests or other obstructions before turning on your heating system.

• If you have a furnace, check and clean or replace filters on a monthly basis during the heating season.

• Gently vacuum in and around hot water baseboard and electric baseboard heaters to remove dust. Remove

the grilles on forced-air heating systems and vacuum inside the ducts. Ensure airflow dampers are open.

• If you have a heat recovery ventilator (HRV), ensure the air intake grille — located on the outside of the house — is clean, the filters and core within the unit are clean, the condensate drains properly (test by pouring water into the drain pan under the core and watching the flow through the drain tube), and the HRV is turned on and is set at the right speed.

• If you have a sump pump, ensure it is operating

properly, with no obstructions or leaks in

the drain line.

Winter ready: do your chores

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Sunday, October 23, 2011 - at home - A33

Clean out leaves and

other debris from your

eaves

• If you have a septic tank, have it checked to determine if it needs to be emptied before the winter starts.

• Remove and store window screens, install storm windows, and ensure all windows, doors and skylights shut tightly, including the door between your house and garage; repair or replace weather stripping.

• Ensure that the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation wall to decrease the likelihood of water draining into the basement.

• Cover the outside of the air conditioner and drain and store outdoor hoses. Close the valve to the outdoor hose connection and drain the faucet.

• Winterize landscaping by storing outdoor furniture, preparing gardens and, if necessary, protecting young trees or bushes.

For a free copy of the “About Your House” fact sheet Home Maintenance Schedule, or for information on any other aspect of owning, maintaining or buying a home,visit www.cmhc.ca or call CMHC at1-800-668-2642.

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A34 - at home - Sunday, October 23, 2011

We’ve raised over $250,000 to date for local charities!

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Shut pests outAs fall quickly turns to winter it’s important to remember that we are not the only ones heading inside for shelter.When the temperatures start to drop,mice, rodents and other seasonal pests are all looking for warm places to spend the winter — what better place than inyour home?

“Most homes are easy targets for pests looking to escape the cooler weather,” says Dan Dawson of Orkin PCO Canada. “By being proactive and protecting the home, homeowners can avoid infestations during the winter months.”

A recent survey conducted by the company revealed that 50 per cent of respondents detect pest damage in their homes and yet 70 per cent of respondents do not employ any pest monitoring practices in the fall. “Just because it is getting colder does not mean we no longer have to worry about bugs,” says Dawson. “It just means we have to focus our attention to specific areas of the home that tend to attract seasonal pests.”

Taking measures to prevent an infestation does not have to be expensive and timely. According to Dawson, protecting your home could be as easy emptying containers or gutters with standing water, sealing any visible cracks or holes in your home’s exterior and definitely getting rid of leftover veggies from the garden.

Simple tricks can go a long way when it comes to infestation prevention, but none of these measures are foolproof. For more information visit www.orkincanada.ca

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Sunday, October 23, 2011 - at home - A35

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FABULOUS TIPS OF THE MONTH

A great way to remove bird poop from an outside deck is to scrub it with red cider vinegar.- Submitted by Jan Cooper

Clean windows, glass and mirrors by collecting tea leaves in a bucket. Cover with rainwater and leave overnight. Strain and use with a squeegee. Dry with three-day-old or older newspaper.

After raking the yard, don’t throw away the leaves. Spread them over the garden and wet down. Till in the spring to add nutrients for the plants, as the leaves decompose.

Ask ReenaGreat to hear from you again Beverley. Believe me, you are not alone; I receive hundreds of letters from people with “The Stinky Drain Challenge!” The overnight baking soda, hot water and vinegar solution is a powerful way to freshen drains, and using this method once a month has no disadvantages. However, if your sink continues

to smell, you may have a clog in your pipes, which will need to be cleaned out. Other causes of smelly drains are poor ventilation or old grease sitting in pipes for a long period and becoming rancid. Instead of vinegar, pour one cup household non-sudsing ammonia down the drain and chase with one cup baking soda. Plug drain and leave overnight. In the morning, remove plug and pour boiling water down the drain. If the smell remains, call in a licensed plumber to check out the system and vent lines. The plumber should also check valves.

A

Dear Mrs. B., Dandruff is the shedding of the skin on the scalp, and a little dandruff is normal for everyone. If you have an oily scalp, the Mayo Clinic recommends shampooing often to prevent dandruff. Another

solution is to clean hair with shampoos containing tea tree oil. Use only a few drops and stop using it if your scalp becomes irritated. If you’re desperate, visit a dermatologist and he/she can prescribe medicated shampoo.

BY REENA NERBAS

FOR POSTMEDIA NEWS

A

Hi Reena,

You helped m

e before wit

h the

removal of od

our from spille

d milk in

my car. I’m n

ow trying to

remove

a constant od

our coming fro

m our

kitchen drain

. We tried baking

soda and hot

water, but w

ere not

successful. W

e don’t have

a garburator,

but try to co

llect debris in

the drain

strainers. How

ever, I know

bits and

pieces slip thr

ough. Suggest

ions please.

Thank you so

much.

Beverley

Dear Reena,

I have horrible dandruff! I

shampoo my hair with dandru

ff

shampoo but it doesn’t make

a

difference. Do you have any

advice for me?

Mrs. B.Reena Nerbas is the author of Household Solutions 1 with Substitutions, Household Solutions 2 with Kitchen Secrets, and Household Solutions 3 with Green Alternatives.To submit a question, visit www.householdsolutions.org.

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Your vexing household questions