Home Style - Spring

Finish pesky projectsHelp with your major

home projectThree tools to spruce

up exteriorsCleaning without harsh

chemicalsQ&A with DIY Network’s

Jason Cameron

Spring 2012 Meeker County Advertiser and Hutchinson Leader Shopper

Solutions to maximizethe potential of your home’sstorage areas

Cesar Millan advises dog owners to set appropriate boundaries

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Taming the

Closet

2 Spring Home Improvement Hutchinson Leader/Litchfield Independent Review Sunday, March 18, 2012

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What’s InsideGot a

messycloset?

If the space to store allyour stuff has run dry,

there are solutions tomaximize the potential of

your storage areasaround the house.

Page 4

Planninga remodel?

Experts such as localbuilding official Lenny

Rutledge are here to helpsmooth the winkles in the

next major project inyour home.

Page 14

Get motivated and finishthose pesky projects / 8

Three tools to spruce up adingy exterior / 10

Clean your home withoutusing harsh chemicals / 12

Be the master of pets / 16

Home Improvementis published twice a year by ...

LeaderLeaderH U T C H I N S O N

THE LITCHFIELD INDEPENDENT REVIEW P.O.Box 921,Litchfield,MN 55355-0921Phone: 320-693-3266 Fax: 320-693-9177

Email: [email protected] Website: www.independentreview.net

THE HUTCHINSON LEADER 170 Shady Ridge Rd.,Suite 100

Hutchinson,MN 55350-2440Phone: 320-587-5000 Fax: 320-587-6104

Email: [email protected] Website: www.hutchinsonleader.com

28,100 copies of Home Improvement arebeing delivered through the Leader Shopperand Meeker County Advertiser. Ads are alsoplaced on www.hutchinsonleader.com and

www.independentreview.net.


Taming the closetIF FACED WITH INSURMOUNTABLE ODDS IN YOUR CLOSETS, IT MIGHTBE BEST TO CALLAPROFESSIONAL TO HELP ORGANIZE THE MESS


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By KAY JOHNSONStaff Writer

Too much stuff and notenough room?

You’re not alone.Closets are the catchall

of living. People use closetsto store everything from their clothes,shoes and coats to cleaning tools such as avacuum cleaner, mop and broom tosports equipment, wrapping paper andcookware.

We’ve all seen the sitcom where thehomeowner has guests ringing the frontdoor bell while she’s trying to clean up byshoving stuff into an already overstuffedcloset. Heaven forbid anyone should openit.

For many, out of sight is out of mind. Ifyou don’t have to look at it, you don’t haveto deal with it.

If you’re guilty of closet overdose, there’shelp.

CarpetPlus ColorTile Design Showroomin Hutchinson offers Shelvi Storage Sys-tems, which are manufactured by CabinetComponents & Distribution in Sauk Cen-ter.

You’re no longer stuck with what youhave. You can change it up to fit your

lifestyle and your needs by customizingyour closets with accessories such as tieracks, belt racks, hanging rods, jewelrytrays, valet rods, cubbies and dividers.

If your needs change over time, noproblem.

The system’s flexibility allows you toreposition the components for the bestuse of your space.

“You can install it anywhere you needstorage,” said Suzie Maki, a decoratingconsultant at CarpetPlus. “At our Feb. 6

open house, people were packed aroundthe Shelvi representative. People really lis-tened to him.”

Maki went on to say that Shelvi prod-ucts can be used to customize storagespace for hobby gear, too.

If you’re a sports enthusiast, imaginehow great it would be to have storage forall your downhill skiing stuff. Or if fishingis your sport, how about a safe place for allyour nets, rods and reels, tackle boxes andmore?

Most typical home closets comeequipped with a hanging bar and amounted shelf above the bar.

It works, but it doesn’t maximum theavailable space. Wasted space can befound above the shelf and below on thefloor.

Built-in closet components come in twostyles: floor mount, which looks like built-in cabinetry and off-the-floor.

Maki’s colleague, Vicki Schuch, cus-tomized a closet 3 feet deep and 5 feetwide that was shared by two adults and achild.

“We go out and measure and take intoconsideration how you’re going to use it,”

Continued on page 6

STAFF PHOTO BY KAY JOHNSON

Decorating consultant Suzie Maki reccommends a drawer organizer to reduce bedroom clut-ter by organizing the smaller parts of your wardrobe.


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she said. “We have our own installers, too.Wall-mounted units are available, sothey’re off the floor for cleaning.” Floormount components are also available fora built-in cabinetry look.

Schuch said Shelvi Storage Systems startat about $300 and go up from theredepending on what you put in and thesize.

Storage components can also be used inthe home office, laundry room, entrywaycloset, living room, family room, base-ment, garage or workshop.

“It’s all personal preference,” she said.“It can be whatever you want it to be.”

Litchfield Building Center and LBC ofHutchinson also offer customized closetorganizers by Real Closet, a Duluth-basedmanufacturer.

Sales designer Dave Gorham, whoworks in the Hutchinson office, said theycan create whatever a customer wants.

Like CarpetPlus, they will come out andmeasure your space and draw up a cus-

tomized plan for your closet.

Getting organizedIf your budget doesn’t allow for built-in

closet components, what can you do?Maki is a big believer in “simplify and

organize.”“Make space for what you love and let

go of what doesn’t serve you,” she said.Maki suggests taking the time to think

about your space and how you use it.Begin your closet rehab project by takingeverything out of your closet and thenonly putting back in what you really wantand use.

For instance, most of us own moreclothes than we ever wear. Experts citestatistics that people wear about 20 per-cent of their clothes 80 percent of thetime.

A way to find out if this is true for you ornot comes from organizing guru PeterWalsh, who offered this tip: Reverse all theclothes hanging in your closet, so thehangers are facing back to front. As youwear an item of clothing, reverse thehanger.

Do this for about six months and you’llfind out what clothes you are actuallywearing. Don’t be surprised if you discoverthat you’re wearing only a portion of what

ClosetsContinued from page 5

STAFF PHOTO BY KAY JOHNSON

Convienent hooks, shown by Vicki Schuch, can help you while doing the laundry.


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you own. Armed with this knowledge, you can

sort your clothes into several piles: keep,repair, donate and discard.

If you’re saving clothes that you plan todiet into, forget it. Save a special pair ofjeans if you have an emotional attach-ment. Otherwise, get rid of them. Chancesare clothing from years past is out of style,plus wouldn’t it be more fun to buy some-thing new in your new size?

Don’t throw clothes away unless they’rein poor repair, stained or damaged. Localorganizations that will take your usedclothing include: Twice as Nice, the Hospi-tal Auxiliary Thrift Store and the West Cen-tral Industries Thrift Store, all in Hutchin-son. The Disabled Veterans of Americaoffer green bins in Hutchinson and Litch-field as well as in area communities forclothing collection. Heartland CommunityAction’s Threads of Hope thrift store inLitchfield also accepts used clothing.

Make it prettyMost of us spend time and money to

decorate our homes, but then leave ourclosets painted white.

“Why not make them pretty?” Makiasked. “Decorate the whole space. Peopleoften don’t think about it. If you have apretty closet, you are more apt to putthings in place.”

Local stores such as Target, Walmartand Menards offer closet accessories suchas shelving, shoe racks and full-lengthmirrors for do-it-youself installation.

Depending on the size of your closet, asmall dresser may fit with the drawerssupplying storage for everything fromunderwear and socks to wrapping paperand table linens.

Hooks and baskets come in all shapesand sizes. They’re handy for storingscarves, belts and jewelry.

Some hooks can be fitted over a doorwhile others use two-way tape adhesivefor mounting. There are plenty of options

out there, so pick what works best for you.

What can you do on a tightbudget?

Organize your closet by using cardboardboxes. Boxes can be picked up at nocharge or at a small cost. They come in allshapes and sizes and can be dressed upwith wallpaper, wrapping paper or paint.They’re cheap to replace and easy to recy-cle.

Closet accessories can also be found atflea markets, garage sales and thrift stores.

There’s nothing wrong with givingsomething you already own a new pur-pose. Put that stack of empty suitcases towork by using them for storage. A bowlcan be used to hold earrings. Cardboardboxes can be cut down to become dividersfor separating stacks of sweaters or T-

shirts.All it takes is some creativity and elbow

grease to get your closets in shape forspring.

“Make space for what you love and letgo of what doesn’t serve you.”

Suzie Maki, decorating consultant

Closet sources � For more information about Shelvi

Storage Systems, call CarpetPlus ColorTileDesign Showroom in Hutchinson at 320-587-6070. � For more information about Real

Closet products, call the Litchfield BuildingCenter at 320-693-3616, or LBC ofHutchinson at 320-234-9663.� For do-it-yourself closet organizers

such as shelving, shoe racks, tie and beltracks, brackets and so on, visit Walmart inHutchinson or Litchfield; Target, Menardsand Ace Hardware in Hutchinson; or Part-ners Hardware Hank in Litchfield.� For baskets, hooks and other closet

accessories, visit Dollar Tree and Walmartin Hutchinson and Litchfield; ShopKo, Tar-get and Menards in Hutchinson.� For low-cost closet accessories, visit

garage sales, flea markets and thriftstores.


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By DAN RAFTERCTW Features

Licensed contractor and televi-sion star Jason Cameron knowshow to fix just about anythinginside (and outside) the home.He shows off his expertise as

the host of “Man Caves” and “DesperateLandscapes” on the DIY Network. But hewent through plenty of career and lifechanges before he settled into this gig: he’salso worked as a personal trainer, actorand fitness model/spokesman for Men’sHealth magazine.

Cameron dishes about his career, hispassion for the DIY life and ways to makethat big upcoming home-improvementproject less intimidating.

QQ.. YYoouu’’rree pprreettttyy mmuucchh aa hhoommee--

iimmpprroovveemmeenntt gguurruu tthheessee ddaayyss.. HHaavvee yyoouuaallwwaayyss bbeeeenn iinnttoo tthhee ddoo--iitt--yyoouurrsseellfflliiffeessttyyllee??

The whole home improvement thinghas been a part of me for a long time, aslong as I can remember. My dad was anelectrician and he’d do roofing on the side.He introduced me to that type of workwhen I was still young. I grew up in upperMichigan, spending a lot of my time out-doors. We heated our house by wood. Thismeant that we’d go out every fall and sum-mer to cut down our trees for the wood.

As a kid, I hated it. As I grew older, I seethat all that manual work has been a valu-able lesson to me.

QQ..WWhheenn ddiidd yyoouu mmaakkee tthhee mmoovvee ttoo tthheewwoorrlldd ooff eenntteerrttaaiinnmmeenntt??

When I turned about 28 or 29 – I knewthat I couldn’t live in upper Michigan and

pursue entertainment, so I went to NewYork. I ended up working as a fitnessmodel, which was not my plan at thetime. But fitness is the other side of mylife, it’s my other passion. It was a goodway to make ends meet.

[Eventually,] I landed a part as a carpen-ter on “While You Were Out” for TLC. I wasamazed to realize that I could be on a TVshow doing what I loved to do. When“While You Were Out” was over, the DIYNetwork people introduced themselves tome. Since then, I’ve had a great relation-ship with them.

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I went to school to be a cop. You neverknow where life is going to take you.

QQ.. WWhhaatt ddoo yyoouu eennjjooyy ssoo mmuucchh aabboouutt

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hhoommee iimmpprroovveemmeenntt??Home-improvement projects are a real

chore for some people.A lot of people don’t like working out,

either, and I like that, too. I’m a verymechanical person. No joke, when I go tobed at night, I build stuff in my head. Thenwhen I wake up, I draw it on paper. I’m justmechanically inclined. I love working withmy hands. I love the act of bringing some-thing from my imagination to fruition.That’s a great feeling. I hope people get theopportunity to experience that, to createsomething, after they watch our shows.

QQ.. WWhhaatt aaddvviiccee ddoo yyoouu hhaavvee ffoorrhhoommeeoowwnneerrss wwhhoo ggeett aarroouunndd ttoo ccoommpplleett--iinngg tthheeiirr hhoommee--iimmpprroovveemmeenntt pprroojjeeccttss??

I know that homeowners sometimes getnervous. They think they aren’t skilledenough to complete a home-improve-ment project.

Homeowners should spend the mosttime on a project to plan it out. They needto sit down and do some research. Whattools do they need? Write that down. Willyou have to borrow or buy tools? Who doyou need to hire to help you complete theproject? If you don’t have a plan, you’llend up wandering around aimlessly.

QQ.. WWhhaatt ccaann hhoommeeoowwnneerrss ddoo ttoo mmaakkeetthheemmsseellvveess mmoorree ccoommffoorrttaabbllee wwiitthh ttaacckk--

lliinngg hhoommee--iimmpprroovveemmeenntt pprroojjeeccttss??When you go into a home supply or

hardware store and you have time on yourhands, walk up and down the aisles. Themore you familiarize yourself with thestore, the more you understand whereeverything is and what they have, the lesstime you’ll waste when doing the project.

To-do listJason Cameron, DIY Network star

and licensed contractor, gives a list ofchores every homeowner should doafter winter passes:� Take a visual inspection of the

roof. No need to get on top of it — usebinoculars to get a good look frombelow. Any missing or cracked shin-gles or damage near the chimneyneeds to be fixed, or it will get worsewith time.� Inspect the gutters and down-

spouts. During the winter, they canpull away from the house.� Look for cracks in the exterior

walls, whether it’s brick or siding.� Make sure there is enough caulk

around doors and windows.� Take a walk around the entire

house to visually inspect it for anyworrying features that catch the eye.


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It’s official. Your house has become aneyesore for anyone driving by – peel-ing paint, squeaky doors and dirt-covered siding attest to months, if notyears, of neglect. But the toolbox is

empty and you’re no home-improvementexpert as it is.

Luckily, people who are experts know howto spruce up a house exterior without break-ing the bank.

With three tools that are more than one-trick ponies, turn a run-down house into one

that stops traffic — for the right reasons.

Spray Lubricant:A tool of 2,000 uses

For just a couple of dollars, a bottle ofhousehold oil/lubricant can go a long way.The most ubiquitous of these lubricants isWD-40. In fact, the website for WD-40 lists2,000 uses. Some might be repetitive, butsome are surprisingly useful.

There’s the obvious: the product fights ruston porch railings, metal patio furniture, bar-becue grills and more.

But Eileen Claar, Atlanta-based social

media expert for Home Depot, says this isonly the beginning.

A squirt of lubricant on a porch ceilingfan’s blades keeps it moving smoothly, elimi-nating any squeaks or squeals when they’respinning. When the holiday seasonapproaches, those animated reindeer orwaving elves on the front lawn might need atune-up. Spray lubricant can make sure thatthese animated creatures move as they’resupposed to.

“You don’t want reindeer that look likethey have arthritis,” Claar says.

Some lubricant on the base of the garagedoor makes sure that it won’t stick to thebottom of the pavement underneath, poten-tially saving it from some unsightly damageif the garage door faces the street.

“Up to 30 percent of homeowners’ frontexterior space is taken up by garage doors,”Claar says. “It’s important to take care ofthem.”

Angled Paintbrush: A newangle on painting

Painting is a hassle. Painting the frontporch railing, exterior trim or even backyarddeck can seem even more daunting. Butwith the proper paintbrush, the perfect DIYexterior paint job is within reach.

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sik – who, along with her husband John,documents home repair adventures onthe popular blog Young House Love – saysthat painting doesn’t have to be a hasslefor homeowners who rely on a short-han-dled angled paintbrush.

Petersik prefers the 2-inch variety. Thetool provides her with far greater controlthan flat paint brushes. And it allows herto reach into odd, tight places.

When painting exterior trim on win-dows, she gets far less paint on the win-dows, which she would have to scrape offwith a razor blade later.

“A lot of people are afraid to buy housesfor some very superficial reasons,” Peter-sik says. “They don’t like a certain paintcolor, for instance. If people know just

how simple it can be to fix these superfi-cial things with the right tools, they’d bemore willing to buy some of these won-derful homes that are out there.”

Nothing livens up a drab exterior like afresh coat of paint. With this tool, Petersikcan spruce up exterior trim, deck railingsand her outdoor furniture. She estimatesthat where it once took her four hours topaint trim, she’s now cut that time in halfthanks to her angled paintbrush.

“People tend to make painting a biggerdeal in their heads than what it has to be,”Petersik says. “We’ve probably painted 30rooms in the last few years… When youhave the right tools, painting doesn't haveto be a hassle at all.”

Pressure Washer:The power of water

When Jason Cameron needs to providea quick boost to a property’s exterior, heturns to one tool: the pressure washer.

And Cameron knows of what he speaks.This licensed contractor is host of twoshows on the DIY Network, “DesperateLandscapes” and “Man Caves.” He knowswhat’s easy and what isn’t.

“The pressure washer is such an impor-tant tool,” Cameron says. “There are somany applications for it. Unlike a regulargarden hose, which won’t give you thepressure you need, you can use a pressurewasher to remove dirt and grime andbuildup from just about any exterior sur-face. And that’ll leave your home look-ing so much brighter.”

The pressure washer is also an eco-nomical tool when it comes to usingwater. Cameron says that it uses 70percent less water to complete anaverage job than does a typicalgarden hose.

Cameron recommendsusing a pressure washerto remove the gray thatbuilds up along con-crete porches overthe years. It canalso remove greenmossy patchesthat collect onhouse siding.

Cameron doesadvise home-owners to stay12 to 16 inchesaway fromtheir homeswhen using apressurewasher toclean siding;the fan tipgives a wider swatch of water

when the user stands farther away, whichallows people to clean more area in lesstime.

Homeowners can also turn to pressurewashers to brighten faded pavers, cinderblock walkways and deck surfaces. Basi-cally, any surface rugged enough to han-dle the pressure could benefit from aquick pressure wash, Cameron says.

He says that pressure washers that pro-vide 1,800 pounds of pressure per squareinch (psi) are best for washing down ahouse exterior.

PHOTO FROM ISTOCKPHOTO

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HOME DEPOT


82468

By LINDSEY ROMAINCTW Features

Nothing says clean and greenlike everyday householditems that double as cleaningsupplies. When it’s time for aquick and inexpensive scrub

down, turn to these fridge and cupboardstaples to get the job done without the has-sle or chemicals of store-bought products.

Hydrogen peroxideAccording to Karyn Maier, author of

“The Naturally Clean Home: 150 Super-Easy Formulas for Green Cleaning”(Storey Publishing, 2008), peroxide canhelp remove rust stains from porcelain,which is a real plus for homes with highmineral content in their water. It alsodeodorizes.

“Bathing your dog in a mixture ofhydrogen peroxide, baking soda and a

squirt of natu-ral liquid soapwill breakdown thiols,the com-pounds thatmake thedefensivespray ofskunks havesuch stayingpower,” Maiersays.

VinegarVinegar is

great at dis-solving dirtynuisances likesoil, grease, soap scum and hard waterdeposits, according to Crissy Trask, con-tributor at green living website GreenMatters.

Maier suggests mixing vinegar withlemon or lime juice to clean countertopsand other surfaces. She also notes thatwhite vinegar will remove grease stainsand will reduce static cycling in the dryer.

Baking sodaTrask calls baking soda “mildly abra-

sive,” adding that it cleans, deodorizesand removes stains along with softeningfabrics in the wash. Maier adds that com-bining it with white vinegar will furtherwhiten a load of laundry.

Essential oilsThyme essential oil will kill and prevent

the growth of mold and mildew, accordingto Maier.

“Rosemary, basil, thyme and tea tree arejust a few examples of oils with antibac-terial and antiviral properties,” she says.“And because you only need a few dropsat a time, a small bottle goes a long way.”

Citrus fruitFresh lemon, lime and grapefruit can be

rubbed on cutting boards and otherkitchen surfaces to sanitize. Trask notesthat the acid in the citrus is great at cut-ting through grease, and Maier suggeststhrowing the remaining peels into thegarbage disposal to kill bad odor.

Sodium percarbonate While it may be a little harder to track

down, Trask suggests using sodium per-carbonate as a bleaching method.

“It breaks down in water, oxygen andsoda ash, it is not a carcinogen and itdoesn’t persist in the environment, so it isfar preferable to chlorine bleach,” shesays, but also points out that it’s veryharmful if swallowed and can cause irrita-tion to the eyes and skin.

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By TERRY [email protected]

With new home construc-tion being almost nonex-istent in Hutchinson formore than three years,local building official

Lenny Rutledge’s inspection duties haveconsisted mainly of residential and com-mercial remodeling projects and addi-tions.

Those inspections often have a com-mon thread when it comes to problemshe finds.

“Probably the biggest one we have iswith stairs,” Rutledge said. “It is the No. 1situation where someone can get hurt at.

We can almost always expect that (to be aproblem area).”

The “it” he was referring to is the devia-tion he often finds in the rise of the steps.Code requires that no step can be three-eighths-inch more or less rise than theothers.

What often happens, Rutledge said, isthat a do-it-yourselfer may buy pre-madestair risers at a big box home improve-ment store and then find the risers area abit long. They then cut the top or bottomstep to fit the riser in, but that creates alarger than allowed deviation.

“You pretty much are always better tohave your stairs custom-made,” he said.

One tip Rutledge sometimes giveshomeowners is to rectify their stair issues

by creating a landing at the bottom. Thelanding is considered a separate structure,thus its rise can deviate from the rest ofthe stairs.

A similar problem can arise when ahomeowner switches flooring from car-peting to a hardwood. That usually addsdepth which can change a step at the topor bottom of a stairway, putting it outsidethe allowed deviation.

Another issue that sometimes occurs inthe basement is putting sheet rock onwalls or ceilings.

“When you do that, it seals it, so youshould remember to first put in any wiresor pipes in you may want later,” Rutledgesaid. That avoids the time and expensiveof having to rip into a wall to place a gas

fireplace gas line, or into the ceiling to runwires for lighting fixtures.

“And people often overlook the need fora return air duct (to the furnace) when fin-ishing off a basement,” he added.

Today, homes are required to have asmoke detector in every bedroom and onein the hallway outside the sleeping area.That requirement sometimes gets over-looked, but if the remodeling project isvalued at more than $1,000, an inspectionis required and detectors are among thecrucial things Rutledge looks for.

“That $1,000 level is an inspection trig-ger,” he said.

Avoidinginspectionissues

STAFF PHOTO BY TERRY DAVIS

Hutchinson building official Lenny Rutledge advises anyone contemplating a project to learn the answers to frequently asked questions by visiting www.ci.hutchinson.mn.us/faq.html#planzone.

HUTCHINSON BUILDING OFFICIALLENNY RUTLEDGE OFFERS ADVICETO DO-IT-YOURSELFERS


Residential Energy Conservation items and Rebate Amounts are limited to:Natural Gas Furnaces, “High Efficiency” AFUE 92%........$150Natural Gas Furnaces, “High Efficiency” AFUE 94%> ....$250Natural Gas Furnaces Tune-Up (biennial) ........................$25ECM motor for furnace/ac motor upgrade

for new installs or existing unit ....................................$75Natural Gas Boilers AFUE 85% ........................................$200Central Air Conditioners “Energy Star” (14.5> SEER) ....$250Central Air Conditioners Tune-Up (biennial) ....................$25Gas Hot Water Heater (Tankless) EF .82> ........................$150Gas Hot Water Heater (Storage Type) EF .62> ................$50Heat Pumps (Air Source) “Energy Star”

14.5> SEER 8+ HSPF ..................................................$75/tonHeat Pumps (Ground Source) “Energy Star”

EER 14.1> closed loop ................................................$150/tonClothes Washers “Energy Star”........................................$75Freezers “Energy Star”(must have disposal verification) ..........$65Refrigerators “Energy Star” (must have disposal verification) ..$65Dishwashers “Energy Star” ..............................................$50Dehumidifiers “Energy Star” ......................................$35Ceiling Fans “Energy Star”................................................$25Programmable Thermostats “Energy Star” ....................$15Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs “Energy Star” ........Up to $15 max. 81

194

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You can get Rebates forEnergy-Efficient Products!Attention Hutchinson Utilities Commission customers—We’re offering our customers rebates for energy-efficient products. Rebate programs started January 1, 2012 andcontinue until funding is depleted. Applications for rebates are available at HUC’s office at 225 Michigan St. S.E.,or online at www.hutchinsonutilities.com.

These residential rebate programs are available for 2012.

We’re Hutchinson Utilities Commission. We’re here for you.

Hutchinson Utilities Commission225 Michigan St. S.E., Hutchinson

320-587-4746www.hutchinsonutilities.com

is your locally owned gas and electric Public Power Utility. Hutchinson is one of 126 Minnesota cities thatbenefit from having a local municipal utility. A public power utility is a tremendous community asset. Here are some of the reasons why:

We have great service.We’re part of the community and our policy makers, managersand workers are part of the community. Our crews are always onhand in the event of an emergency. You don’t need to call an 800number to talk to us.

We’re locally regulated.Rates and service practices are set by members of the communitywho live in the community. If you have a problem, you know whoto talk to.

We’re owned by our customers.There is no tension between the interests of customers and theinterests of stockholders. Our focus is Main Street, not WallStreet. We work for you.

We’re not in it for the money.Municipal utilities are operated in the public interest. Our goal islong-term community benefit, not short-term gain. We work hardto save you money.

We’re the yardstick for the industry.For generations public power systems have set standards for ratesand service that other utilities have had to meet.

We’ll be there.Hutchinson Utilities Commission has served their communitiesfor more than 70 years. In an era when new competitors comeand go faster than we can learn their names, you can count on us.We will be there when you need us.

Hutchinson Utilities Commission (HUC)

When buying a new air conditioner, efficiency should be your #1concern. After all, it’s how they system pays for itself. With air con-ditioners from 13 to 20 SEER, we have a wide range of efficiencyoptions to fit your budget so you can save year after year, summerafter sweltering summer.

If you act before June 30, 2012 you can save up to$1,150. Ask us how!

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By PATRICIA RIVERACTW Features

Some people may not like thecomparison, but dog-bookauthor Ruth Strother insists thatliving with a pet is like livingwith children.

To maintain harmony — and to makethe home more comfortable for peopleand their furry friends — it’s important toestablish a routine and boundaries.

“Just like you wouldn’t let your kids playfreely in a room with expensive furniture,you can’t let your pets play in there either,”says Strother, author of “The Dog FriendlyHome: DIY Projects for Dog Lovers” (Cre-ative Publishing International, 2011).

Those who don’t create boundaries anddesignated spaces for pets run the risk ofknocking over water bowls or entertainingguests with an eyesore of a kitty junglegym — or worse, a litter box — in plainsight. Dog behavior specialist Cesar Mil-lan, who hosts “The Dog Whisperer” tele-vision show on National Geographic Wild,believes owners must claim their space —consistently.

“If you decide your dog is only allowedon the couch when you invite him, thenyou have to stick to that rule when you’rehome,” says Millan, who is also author ofthree New York Times best sellers. “It’s allabout discipline and consistency.”

Strother says living with a pet meansdealing with occasional damage. But thereare preventive measures for some com-mon problems. Consider installing clearvinyl door protectors to prevent doorsfrom being scratched.

Nail caps applied to dog’s nails helpprotect door and floors. Grooming ishuge, experts insist. Nails should be keptshort no matter what.

Strother says regular exercise and regu-lar stimulation also keeps pets more atpeace. “You need to dedicate time to themand think about their needs,” she says.

© CTW Features

NO MATTER HOWPAMPERED APET IS,THE HOUSE SHOULDSTILL BE— FIRST ANDFOREMOST — COMFYFOR THE HUMANSWHO LIVE THERE

Cesar Millan, better known as the Dog Whisperer, says that dogowners must claim their space consistently to set appropriateboundaries in the home.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CESAR MILLAN

In the dog house

Hutchinson Leader/Litchfield Independent Review Sunday, March 18, 2012 Fall Home Improvement 17

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Pet projects

When a pet has its ownspecial space in a house,it’s easier to keep thingsorganized and routine.Not only

does it make things easierfor the four-legged onesto understand, but itkeeps pet owners fromripping their hair out infrustration.

In “The Dog-FriendlyHome,” author RuthStrother offers some ideasto make a pet area morecomfortable for all theoccupants in a house.

PPeett ttooyy cchheesstt:: Just aswith children’s toys, sheexplains, pet toys can overtake a homeand cause twisted ankles, and the messcan create stress. Instead of piling them ina corner, find or build a toy chest.

For a personal touch, paint the pet’sname on it or stencil pet symbols, such asbones and paws. “Take out two or threetoys and a time – they don’t need more!Rotate them and when they’re done play-ing, put them in the chest,” she says.

GGrroooommiinngg ssttaattiioonn:: An in-house groom-

ing station makes it easy to maintain aregular grooming regimen, which goes along way in keeping the home clean ofanimal hair and dirt. The grooming sta-tion is a designated area with a table andshelves or wirewall grid to keep groomingsupplies and pet supplies in general.

AAttttrraaccttiivvee bbeeddss:: A stylishhouse shouldn’t have asloppy pet bed thrown onthe floor. Strother suggestssome modern options: aplatform bed made fromBaltic birch plywood, sizedto match the dimensions ofthe pet bed cushion, or anightstand-bed combo forsmaller pets that incorpo-rates a small mattress intoa piece of household furni-ture.

IInnssuullaatteedd ddoogghhoouussee:: IfFido or Lassie spends a lot of time outside,he or she may appreciate an insulatedhome that protects from harsh elements.Strother explains that flat-roof doghouseswith a slight slope to the roof are easy toinsulate with insulation board. In warmweather, the roof can be propped openslightly for ventilation.

— Patricia Rivera

© CTW Features


Automatic Underground Sprinkler SystemsCommercial and Residential Systems

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By CATHY CASSATACTW Features

For those who prefer theplush pile of carpet beneaththeir feet, new materials andinnovative adhesive providemodern options.

A matter of materialNylon is the most durable of all carpet

fibers, according to Valerie Ottaviano, vicepresident of product design at BentleyPrince Street, Inc., a California-based car-pet and rug company.

When it comes to purely natural materi-als like straw, sisal and wool, she urges con-sumers to think twice.

“They look great but can be tough toclean,” Ottaviano says. Sisal rugs don’treact well to water or cleaners, for example.

“Something made with a solution dye maynot be natural, but it can give you better performance, depending on your house-hold.”

Green is growingLike all home industries, carpet makers

are looking into sustainable options. Post-consumer nylon can be weaved back intonew fibers.

“We can actually strip previously usedcarpet, shave off the top and put that backinto a new fiber while still creating premi-um-quality carpet,” Ottaviano says.

There’s now carpet available that is madefrom yarn composed of used fishing nets.The production process is fed by differentstreams of post-consumer carpets, usedfabrics and fishing nets together withindustrial discards from all over the world.

Mix and matchModular carpet tiles make it easier for

those who don’t want to make a big, per-manent decision about a large area. FLOR,a leading carpet tile company based in

Chicago, has gained a lot of momentum inthe past few years for its ease of installa-tion, maintenance and durability.

These carpet tiles can be arrangedaccording to each person’s preference forarea rugs, runners or play areas.

This DIY solution may have a higher up-front cost, but the tiles are removable,washable and can be moved from home tohome, which can make it a more cost-effective option.

Sticking pointsIt might be unpleasant knowing there’s a

bunch of adhesive under the carpet, so goahead and ditch the glue. Some carpettiles, like the FLOR system, connect to eachother rather than the floor. Scott Coll, CEOof Austin, Texas-based Commercial Floor-ing Systems, says it’s a faster and cleanerinstallation process.

“There’s no adhesive involved. Insteadyou use a 3-inch-by-3-inch square thatconnects carpet tiles to each other in allfour corners to create one massive rug,”Coll says of FLOR’s commercial counter-part, Interface FLOR Commercial.

Another concern for the underside ofcarpets is the potential tripping hazard.Clint Schramm, vice president of market-ing at Bentley Prince Street, Inc., suggeststapered rubber reducers, which are adhe-sively fused and mechanically stitched tothe carpet’s edge to reduce the height of thecarpet or area rug. This reduced edge elim-inates tripping hazards and allows easymovement of wheelchairs.

Some carpet options might floor you

COURTESY OF BENTLEY PRICE STREET

Gone fishin’: Used fishing nets are weavedtogether with post-consumer fabrics to createthis eco-friendly carpet.

NEW MATERIALS GIVEHARDWOOD FLOORS ARUN FOR THE MONEY


1. Your year around source for all your lawn & garden needs. _________________

2. “See the difference we make” ________________________________________

3. Renovate your homeowners policy. ____________________________________

4. INSPIRING IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME _______________________________

5. 24 Hour Service ___________________________________________________

6. Do I Need a Building Permit? ________________________________________

7. Quite simply the finest paint we’ve ever made ___________________________

8. friendly customer service to make you feel at home. ______________________

9. “Helping You Create a Beautiful Home!” _______________________________

10. it’s worth the drive to visit our shop____________________________________

11. Commercial & Residential Systems____________________________________

12. “Rain Gutters...Our Specialty”________________________________________

13. fast service and several affordable options! ______________________________

14. 1467 Adams St. ___________________________________________________

15. 1-800-252-1166 ___________________________________________________

16. Let us help you piece it together. ______________________________________

17. 18482B 202 Circle St. ______________________________________________

18. Free Water Analysis ________________________________________________

19. whenever you need to rent...__________________________________________

20. BUY THE BEST, FORGET THE REST ________________________________

21. Our shelves are full for FREE Household products! _______________________

22. a style for every point of view ________________________________________

23. Provide a Healthier Environment for Your Family_________________________

24. Take control of your heating costs... ___________________________________

25. Where Customers Return & Send Friends_______________________________

26. You Dream It...We build it! __________________________________________

27. All In-Stock Inventory is on Sale! _____________________________________

28. See Us For All Your Building Needs! __________________________________

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30. See Us For All Your Plumbing & Heating Needs _________________________

31. Geothermal Well Fields _____________________________________________

32. 14755 County Road 9_______________________________________________

33. Biggest Sale of the Year! ____________________________________________

34. Deal Directory With The Builder! _____________________________________

35. Rebates for Energy-Efficient Products! _________________________________

36. Schedule your A/C tune-up now ______________________________________

37. We Offer: Custom Rugs & Binding ____________________________________

38. Schedule your spring and summer projects NOW._________________________

39. BATHROOM & KITCHEN REMODELS ______________________________

40. 320-857-2235 _____________________________________________________

41. Full line of contracting services_______________________________________

42. Expand Your Living Space Outdoors! _________________________________

43. PROTECTING What Matters Most! ___________________________________

44. For all your construction needs...at home or on the farm ___________________

45. Available at over 400 trusted building material suppliers.___________________

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47. We walk you through your floor purchase decision step-by-step _____________

48. Call us for your LP Gas needs... ______________________________________

49. All of your Home Improvement resources are just a click away.______________

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52. “The Decorating Store At YOUR Door!”________________________________

Name _____________________________________________________________

Address____________________________________________________________

City ____________________________ Phone___________________________

Entries must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Friday,March 30, 2012 at the Hutchinson Leader, 170 Shady Ridge Rd. N.W., Suite 100, Hutchinson, MN 55350.

1st PLACE:Dinner &

Show for Twoat Chanhassen Dinner Theatres

2nd PLACE:$20 in Hutch Bucks

Here’s how to play: Simply read all the business ads in this Spring Home Improvement edition.Businesses can be matched up with a phrase, headline orsentence below. Businesses may only be used once unlessthey have more than one ad. Check ads carefully to matchthe clues below. Good luck! Winners will be notified byphone.Entries must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Fri., March 30 at theHutchinson Leader, 170 Shady Ridge Rd. N.W., Suite 100, Hutchinson, MN 55350. All decisions of judges are final. In the event of a tie, a random drawing of all correct entries will occur. You must be at least 18 years of age to win. Employees of the Hutchinson Leader and Litchfield Independent Review are not eligible to win.

READER CONTESTLEADER/INDEPENDENT REVIEW SPRING HOME IMPROVEMENT

79607 HI


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SUPER SPRING SPECIALS!HAPPENING NOW - be prepared for the future!

By BETTINA CHANGCTW Features

Whether it’s grimy,chipped, discoloredor simply the wrongstyle, an old bathtubcan be made to look

as good as new. First, you might opt for adeep cleaning, but if that doesn’t do thetrick, try one of these three methods.

1. Resurface ItYou may have seen the infomercials on

late at night, but how much do you reallyknow about resurfacing a bathtub? Thisproduct, also known as a bath liner orbath fitter, is created to match the dimen-sions of your tub and is placed directly ontop of the existing area.

Resurfacing covers up any ugly rem-nants of the tub without requiring thework of completely removing it. “Ourproduct is 100 percent acrylic and thewalls are all one piece, so if you have moldor mildew issues, we would get rid of all ofit and then put a liner over the existing[tub],” says Saiema Quadri, an event man-ager at Montreal-based Bath Fitter.

Bathtub resurfacing companies areincreasingly adding options like grab bars,graphic art and other bathroom acces-sories attached to the liners. Bath Fitter,which operates in Canada and the U.S.,offers an online tool where customers candesign their own bathroom remodel virtu-

ally.One sticking point for the bath liners is

that customers can get overeager to jumpin their new shower or tub. “If peopledon’t follow directions to let the productsit so the adhesive can stick to the wall,something might pop off a little bit,”Quadri says, “but we’ll go in and fix that.”

Search for bath liners or fitters for resur-facing companies in your area.

Pros:� Cheaper than replacing the whole

tub� No caulking in the liner so it resists

the problems of bathroom tiles� Can be customized to turn a bathtub

into a shower with a seat, etc.

Cons:� If the product develops a crack,

water will get between old bathtub andliner, creating problems� In some cases, plumbing may need

to be changed, which may require a per-mit and a licensed plumber

2. Refinish ItThere are two ways to talk about refin-

ishing a tub. For an easy fix to a smallproblem, there are DIY products that canrepair cracks and chips in a tub if it ismade of acrylic or fiberglass/gelcoat.

For a full overhaul, though, refinishingis an inexpensive way to make a big differ-ence in the appearance of a bathtub. “It’s

3 ways to abetterbath tub

PHOTO COURTESY OF BATH FITTER

Refinishing an older bath tub, left, can cover up ugly remnants of a tub without completelyremoving it. The resurfaced tub, right, looks like new.

TIRED OF THAT DINGYTUB? ATRIO OFOPTIONS MIGHT GIVEBRIGHTER OUTLOOK


80629 HI

McLeod Cooperative Power1231 Ford Ave., Glencoe, MN

320-864-3148 • 1-800-494-6272Open Monday–Friday7:45 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Call Gopher State One Call at least48 hours before you dig this spring!You may be planning a summer project

now, such as building a deck or plantingtrees or shrubs. They’re great summertime

projects, but we urge you to be careful. Manysites are on top of underground utility lines.Cutting an underground cable or pipeline can bevery dangerous and costly, so call Gopher StateOne Call before you dig. It’s the law!

Gopher State One Call is the clearinghouse todetermine the location of all underground utilitylines in Minnesota. After you call Gopher State,it notifies underground utility operators with facil-ities in the area. Locators are dispatched tomark where these underground cables andpipelines are located.

But this all takes time, so be sure to call GopherState One Call at 1-800-252-1166 at least 48

hours before you dig, excluding weekends, holi-days and emergencies. Calls are taken between7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Gopher State One Call willask specific questions, so please have thefollowing information available when youcall:

• Type of work to be done• Location of the work site, including

township, range, section and quarter coordinates. This is the property’slegal description.

• Estimated time needed to complete work.

Property owners should understand their fullresponsibility when digging.

• The property owner or excavating company

is responsible for calling Gopher State One Callat 1-800-252-1166 at least 48 hours before workis to be done so that locators can mark theircompany’s utilities.• The property owner is responsible for hiring alocator and paying for locating costs if theunderground wires are on the property owner’s side of the electric meter, such as secondarywires running to a house or buildings.

Remember, call1-800-252-1166before putting one

shovel in the ground!

1-800-252-1166

1725 E. Hwy. 12, Litchfield, MN320-693-3231 or 800-232-6257

Open Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Hutchinson Utilities Commission225 Michigan St., Hutchinson, MN

320-587-4746www.hutchinsonutilities.com

Open Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

about being able to bring your bathroomup to date on a reasonable budget,” saysJim Pierce, senior account executive atChicago-based Beautiful Finishes.

Refinishing typically involves first coat-ing the existing surface in a base solution,sometimes known as an etching solution,which makes it easier for the new surfaceto adhere. Then a primer and topcoat areadded. After the tub is refinished, it couldtake anywhere between four hours toseven days before it is ready for use.

Pierce says many of his customers havetubs with the bright retro colors of the ’60sand ’70s and want to neutralize the colorsto prepare a house for sale. Finishes areavailable in a variety of colors to matchwith bathroom décor. Other common cus-tomers are landlords who want to maketheir properties more appealing to renters,according to Pierce.

The typical bathtub refinishing job,Pierce says, is about $300, though it canvary depending on the type of material,size of the tub and other considerations.

Pros:� Usually the cheapest option� No need to redo plumbing� While you’re at it, you can refinish

PHOTO COURTESY OF LOWE’S

It is the most expensive option, but if you have cash to burn and want to make a major change, you’re better off completely replacing yourtub.Continued on page 22


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auger, dozer blade, rototiller & jack hammer

Bolt CuttersBull FloatsCement & Steel Power

SawsCement MixersCement Power TrowelsCement VibratorChain HoistsCompact Dump TrailerCompactorsElevator to Elevate

ShinglesFlatbed & EnclosedTrailersFloor Sanders & EdgersGas Water Pumps,

including 6”GeneratorsGenies-PortableEquipment

& Personal LiftsHigh Pressure WashersHydraulic Post Hole Auger42’ Hydraulic Boom LiftInsulation BlowersJumping JackKnipco HeatersLaddersLincoln Gas Driven

WeldersMetal DetectorPaint SprayersPipe Cutters & ThreadersPost Hole AugersPost PoundersPower BuggyPower Mitre BoxPower SledgesRolling Scaffold TowerRough Terrain Scissor LiftScaffoldingSkid Steer LoadersSky-Hawk Scissor LiftTextured Ceiling SprayersTomcat Personal LiftToro DingoVibratory Roller

Alfalfa InterseederBale TrailerBin Jacks3 Point BladeBrillion Alfalfa SeederBrillion Grass SeederBrillion Over Seeder3-Pt. Broadcast SeederBush Hog Rotary CuttersCatte Squeeze ChuteChisel PlowGopher Poisoning EquipmentGrain VaculatorLarge Bale CarriersLiquid Manure Equipment

Livestock TrailerManure SpreadersOffset Wishek DiskPasture InterseederPortable Loading ChutePost Hole AugersPTO RototillerRock PickersSkid Steers Earth Moving ScrapersStalk ChoppersSukup Grass & Grain

Interseeder Made to seed CRP acres

Pick up & deliveryavailable. This is only

a parital list of our equipment, so whenever

you need to rent...Call

450 Items for Home, Farm & Construction Use

320-587-2162Corner of Adams (Bluff) St. & Hwy. 7

HutchinsonHours: Mon.-Fri. 7:30 am-5:30 pm

& Sat. 8:00 am-5:00 pm

7961

1 H

I

NEED

IT?

RENT

IT!

CONSTRUCTION & PLUMBING RENTALS

MISCELLANEOUS RENTAL ITEMSYARD & GARDEN RENTALS

The RockVacTM is the worlds most versatile industrialvacuum system. It is able to suck rock, wood chips

and shavings, sand, gravel, leaves, etc.!

3 Trucks

MelroeExcavator Trailers

RockVac

3-Bobcats w/auger, jack hammer& many other attachments

42’ HydraulicBoom Lifts

Scisso

r Lifts

tiles and countertops, tooCons:� Many abrasive chemicals are

involved in this process; each companyhas its own claims to how safe the chemi-cals are� Cannot change the size/shape/func-

tions of the tub

3. Replace ItIf you’ve got cash to burn and want to

make a major change, you’re better offcompletely replacing your tub. Forinstance, for those who want to add luxu-ry features like massage jets, efferves-cence, built-in lighting and aromatherapy,a full replacement is the right choice.

“It depends on personal preference,”says Aaron Hoegle, merchandising direc-tor in fashion plumbing of Lowe’s homeimprovement stores. “Do they want a newexperience? What’s the motive?”

A new tub can accommodate specific

requirements, like accessibility, the desirefor a different style tub, high-tech featuresor green materials.

For an aging home, Hoegle recom-mends a Kohler tub with a side that raisesand lowers and is still customizable withbells and whistles that homeowners want.He cites accessibility as a growing concernfor consumers looking to buy bathtubs.

Delta has also released a new tub, hesays, that is made with low-emitting prod-uct for a healthier indoor environment.“It’s exciting because it’s an acrylic materi-al for a fraction of the typical acrylicprice,” Hoegle says.

While he says that refinishing and resur-facing are viable options for many home-owners who are looking for a cheaperoption, it all depends on the current tuband the customer.

Pros:� Get the tub with the features you

want� See the final product at the store

before you buy� Long-lastingCons:� Removing and installing requires

professional help unless the homeowneris particularly handy

PHOTO COURTESY OF BEAUTIFUL FINISHES

Refinishing an older bath tub can cover up ugly remnants without completely removing it andgive the tub a brand new look.

TubContinued from page 21


Sof teners • F i l t ra t ionDr inking Systems

• Non-Electric

• 24/7 Soft Water

• Most Efficient Salt & Water Usage

• Iron - Odor - Rust Removal

• Free Water Analysis

• We Service All Makes & Models

80209 HI

(320) 587-7199

211 Garden Rd.Next to Slumberland

320-587-9223

Hwy. 7 E.

N

�

Hw

y 15

211 Garden R

d7960

3 HI

FINANCINGAVAILABLE

FREEEstimates

LargestIn-Stock Carpet & Vinyl Rolls

in the area!All In-Stock Inventory is on Sale!

Also offering

unclaimedfreight

Your year around source for allyour lawn and garden needs.

824

56 Monday thru Friday 8-5Saturday 8-4; Closed Sunday

We grow the flowers and vegetables to make your garden all that you desire. We are landscaping professionals and…We do it all at prices you can afford.

We take pride in our selection of Minnesota hardy trees, shrubs, and evergreens.

Stockmen'sGreenhouse & Landscaping

Stockmen'sGreenhouse & Landscaping60973 W. U.S. Hwy. 12, Litchfield, MN 55355

“Look us up on Facebook!”

(320) 693-7787 www.stockmensgreenhouse.com

82457


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