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CAR CARE
WASH OF IMMEDIATELY ... Washing off harmful substances promptly can reduce the chances of damage to a cars paint job.
terms of bug splatter, try to wash it off as soon as possible to alleviate damage. Eggs: Oftentimes, rambunctious children think it is funny to egg a car. However, the enzymes and sulfur content in eggs can cause paint and clear coat to dissolve, leaving white spots in the wake of the egg. Because egg can be sticky and very hard to remove once dried, it is helpful to wash it off as soon as possible. It takes only a few hours for the damage to be permanent. Bleach: Although a bleach-and-water solution is often heralded for its ability to clean many things, it should not be used on a car. Bleach is an oxidizer and it will pit metal and discolor paint. Be careful with pool chemicals as well, as chlorinator is usually regular household bleach. There are many things that can damage a car paint job. Although its impossible to shield the car from everything, there are precautions that can be taken.
DRIVER VISION COMPARISON ... Different headlight bulbs can help with night vision. filament fatigue and general usage. To combat normal wear and tear, experts recommend that vehicle owners replace their headlight bulbs every two years. When replacing headlight bulbs, drivers can upgrade existing bulbs with a new generation of high performance light bulbs that mark a dramatic improvement over the traditional halogen bulbs that are standard on most vehicles. Philips Upgrade Headlight Bulbs are designed to put substantially more light on the road while creating a better beam pattern that is much longer than that produced by standard halogen bulbs. The Philips Headlight Bulbs come in a variety of types that are tailored to meet specific drivers needs from daily commuters to soccer moms to sports enthusiasts. Even motorcycle owners can benefit from the improved lighting with the Philips MotoVision Headlight Bulb, a special light made for motorcycles that also creates a unique orange reflection so other motorists distinguish the motorcycle from other vehicles. Routinely clean your vehicles glass and mirrors. Debris and film buildup on the windshield glass and your rearview and side view mirrors can reduce vision, especially for drivers who smoke inside their vehicles. Make cleaning the glass and mirrors inside and outside of your vehicle part of your routine maintenance. It wont take very long and it will significantly improve visibility. When cleaning side view mirrors, be sure to properly adjust them to eliminate blind spots.
A vehicle history report can be a used car buyers best friend. Whereas in the past buyers bought used cars and hoped for the best, todays used car buyers can rely on a vehicle history report to tell them all about the vehicle while helping buyers make more informed decisions. When shopping for a preowned vehicle, you should always ask for a vehicle history report, regardless of whether youre buying from a dealership or a private citizen. If the seller refuses, its time to look elsewhere. When a seller eagerly provides a vehicle history report, buyers should examine a few things on the report so they can be more comfortable should they ultimately purchase the vehicle. Number of previous owners: All vehicle history reports list how many owners a vehicle has had in the past. In general, the more owners a vehicle has had, the more risk youre assuming as the buyer. Vehicles that tend to change hands often are less likely to have been well maintained. In addition to how many owners a car has had, look at who those owners were. Vehicles that were once owned by a rental car company, for instance, were likely not treated very well, as few people care how much abuse their rental car endures. However, a car once owned by a rental agency likely has lots of highway miles on it, and such driving is less taxing on a vehicle than city driving where the vehicles engine is stopping and starting more frequently. Specifics: Just because a seller provides you with a vehicle history report does not necessarily mean that report matches up with the vehicle you might be buying. A dishonest seller might try to pass off the history report of another vehicle of the same make and model as his own. This is done to hide a suspect vehicle history or even when thieves are selling a stolen car to an unsuspecting buyer. Check the vehicle identification number, or VIN, on the vehicle to ensure the car youre looking at matches the car on the history report. In addition, each vehicle history report describes the car, so if the description does not match you might be holding an inaccurate report. Location: The vehicle history report will show where the car has lived over the years. Vehicles that have spent ample time in harsh weather, such as Alaska or another region with a prolonged winter, have likely had their share of weather-related wear and tear, more so than a car driven in warmer climates. While this does not mean past owners didnt properly maintain the car, some buyers might be wary of purchasing a vehicle that has endured too many harsh winters. Physical appearance: Does the physical appearance of the car match up with its history report? Sometimes a vehicle owner does not report when a car has been in an accident. Owners might do this to avoid higher insurance premiums or to mask the vehicles history because they intend to sell the car down the road. If a car exhibits any signs of body work that arent on its history report or if the car drives awkwardly but has supposedly not been in an accident, buyers should consider this a major red flag and strongly consider walking away from the vehicle and continuing their search elsewhere. A vehicle history report can calm the fears of a buyer shopping for a preowned vehicle. But even when a report is made available, buyers should still examine the report closely to ensure the vehicle is all its cracked up to be.
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AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION ... Routine service and preventive maintenance can add years and miles to a car. Getting more for your money is a popular trend among consumers. As economic uncertainty reigns, smart consumers are looking for the best values in an effort to get the most out of each and every dollar they spend. One of the best ways to stretch a dollar is to take better care of your vehicle. Buying a home and financing a college education are perhaps the only times many consumers will spend more money than they do when purchasing a vehicle. But unlike a home or an education, few people take their vehicles seriously, all too often avoiding vehicle maintenance that can greatly increase a car or trucks life expectancy. Drivers who want to keep their cars going strong for years to come can do so in a handful of ways. Prevent, prevent, prevent. Preventive maintenance might seem like a boring way to spend a weekend morning or afternoon, but the efforts will be well worth it. Oil changes and filter replacements are quick and easy jobs but pay major dividends over the long haul. Drivers who arent comfortable performing these tasks themselves need not worry about costly trips to the mechanic. Routine jobs like an oil change or air filter replacement are relatively inexpensive, and todays vehicles can go much longer between oil changes and filter replacements. Each vehicle manufacturer is different, so drivers should consult their owners manual and adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule. Stay balanced. Balanced tires are tires that will last longer. But an out of balance tire will not only shorten the life of tires, it can also do damage to the rest of the vehicle while simultaneously making riding in the car much less comfortable. When a tire is properly balanced, its mass is uniformly distributed around the axle, making for a smooth, vibration-free ride. However, an out of balance tire shortens the life expectancy of suspension components, including bearings and shocks. Repairs that result from an unbalanced tire can prove costly. Should a vibration occur as the vehicle accelerates (typically, this vibration will be noticeable when the car reaches speeds of 40-45 mph), chances are the tires are not properly balanced. Look good, feel good. The credo of look good, feel good isnt only applicable to humans. In fact, a car that looks good likely feels good as well. Washing and waxing a car regularly helps avoid rust under the carriage and in the wheel wells. The longer a car goes between washes, the more likely it is to rust, and the paint is likely to corrode as well. There is no quick fix to either of these problems, but preventive maintenance, like routinely washing and waxing the vehicle, can keep these potentially menacing issues from ever rearing their rusty heads. Preventing rust and corrosion is also a good way to ensure a cars resale value does not diminish over time. Get out and drive. Cars that spend most of their life in stop-and-go traffic likely wont last as long as those that routinely get out and go. Thats because city driving with lots of stopping and going is very taxing on an engine. On a highway, air flow to the radiator, oil flow to the engine and everything that makes a car run is much more consistent, reducing the stress on the engine as a result. Constantly accelerating and decelerating is hard on an engine, while the consistent speeds of highway driving offer a welcome respite to the engine. City dwellers should get out and drive their car on a highway at least once a month for no less than 30 minutes. This is also a good way to get rid of potentially harmful condensation that can negatively impact engine performance. When looking to get more for your money, one of the best ways to do so is to take better care of the car sitting in your driveway
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A Fresh Cabin Air Filter Creates Things To Know About Motor Oil Breathing Room Inside Your Vehicle
Lets say you are about to take a long road trip. Its one thing to have to clean out your car ahead of time to create enough space for you and your family to be comfortable inside. But did you know that you could also help them breathe more comfortably -- especially if some of them suffer from seasonal allergies or asthma? Breathing in dirty roadside air that enters through the vents affects everyone, particularly the most vulnerable -- those that are susceptible to respiratory illnesses. If breathing clean air is a concern for any reason, checking and replacing the When it comes to taking care of their vehicles, many motorists prefer to be overly cautious. While thats not necessarily a bad thing, there are times when being too cautious can unnecessarily cost you money. Motor oil, and when to change that oil, has long been a point of contention. Many drivers grew up being told that motor oil should be changed every 3,000 miles. However, that myth has been debunked for many of todays vehicles, which should come with suggested intervals between oil changes. According to Edmunds.com, in 2010 the average interval for oil changes was 7,800 miles. In addition to changing a cars motor oil less frequently, there are other things drivers should know about motor oil. * Oil does not necessarily need to be changed before a long trip. Taking a trip? While its good to have your car examined before embarking, if the recommended oil change interval is not up, then you do not need to preemptively change your oil. Such a change is likely unnecessary and will not improve the performance of your vehicle during the trip. * Black oil does not necessitate a change. Conventional wisdom once suggested if the oil on the dipstick is black then it needs to be changed. But nowadays automotive professionals are noting that black oil is doing its job and different additives might be changing the oils color. * You can use petroleum-based oil after using synthetic. Another longstanding myth regarding motor oil was that once you use a synthetic motor oil instead of a petroleum-based oil you have to continue using synthetic oil, which is often more expensive than more traditional motor oil, in order to avoid harming the vehicle. Just be sure to use motor oil that meets the standards set forth in your vehicles owners manual. * Consider an earlier oil change after buying a new vehicle. Sometimes a new vehicle will need an oil change after its first 3,000 miles. However, this does not mean your vehicle will need one every 3,000
cabin air filter should be on every vehicle owners list before taking a long trip, said Chuck Kerrigan, Director of Marketing for Purolator. Purolator is a major supplier of BreatheEasy(R) cabin air filters (www. BreatheEasycabinfilters. com) to the North American aftermarket.
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A new cabin air filter is designed to protect the vehicles occupants from breathing in air that is contaminated with roadside dust, pollen, dirt, soot and mold spores and even noxious gases and odors. Most motorists are not aware that more than 80 percent of new domestic and import vehicles sold in the United States today come equipped with cabin air filters, says the Car Care Council (www.carcare.org/ node/354), an automotive consumer group. And, it is even less likely that they know about the important function these cabin air filters perform, and yet, they are inexpensive and usually quite easy to replace, said Kerrigan.
miles. According to Blackstone Laboratories, who study motor oil, oil samples taken from engines during their initial 3,000 miles of driving had elevated metal levels from the camshafts and pistons. These elevated levels will not necessarily be harmful, but some auto manufacturers recommend a shorter initial interval just to be safe. Honda, however, includes an anti-wear additive in their break-in oil and advises against changing their oil early. Consult your owners manual to determine if its best to change your oil after the initial 3,000 miles or to let it go until the recommended interval. When Only The Best Will Do
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Fayettes Kunkle Providing A More Affordable Northwest Ohio Driveway & Parking Lot Option
By: Tristan L. Crowe THE VILLAGE & WAUSEON REPORTER A Fayette businessman is reaping the rewards from his investments in the tree cutting and trucking/gravel driveway repair industries. Although Gahlon Kunkle, 25, has little time to bask in the glory. Kunkle is nearly a one-man show at his newest business, K & K 2 Trucking, LLC, but he does enlist his girlfriend, Vashti Bowers, and his father, Allen, on certain job assignments. However, Kunkle prefers to do things on his own no matter what the work entails, and he shuns the idea of adding employees. In fact, Kunkle does not have a business office. Having actual employees would take away from the quality I like to ensure to people, Kunkle said. When I do things on my own, I know things will get done the way I like for them to be. I have a staging area where I do the prep work, but since its just me, I dont have the need for an office, he added. For three seasons Kunkle developed his driveway business into a profitable venture. His previous success, Top Line Tree Service, was started in early 2008. Kunkle began Top Line Tree Service right at the height of the Emerald Ash Borer infestation. He soon found himself busy as he began removing blighted trees or trees downed from the occasional storm. Its not entirely seasonal since I can get calls to remove trees damaged in the winter or in summer, Kunkle said. Theres always work out there needing to be done. Yet, Kunkle wanted additional work, something else to satisfy his ambitions and interests. It wasnt long before he sought to develop his own trucking company, and offer delivery of gravel and resurfacing driveways for clients. Kunkles ambitious nature stems from his upbringing, where he was raised on a farm that offered many responsibilities. A hard work ethic was required to survive. Theres always a job that has to be done when youre working on a farm, Kunkle said. I never questioned it, I just liked to work hard and I always found things to do. While growing up on the farm, Kunkle realized that he liked being involved with nearly everything. Immediately he began seeking tree removal work, using his fathers trucks and equipment. My father was the one that kind of helped me get things started, he said. He had his own successful trucking business, so I used some of his trucks when I started finding my own work. Kunkles friends in the tree cutting and gravel driveway businesses served as mentors for a period of five years. The lengthy training period gave him the confidence he needed to make his tree service, and later his driveway/trucking business, succeed. Once a client base was developed, Kunkle bought a truck and started finding work. He soon added another truck and additional equipment when he merged into the driveway/ gravel business. When things started to pick up, I was able to invest in additional equipment, he said. I didnt buy brand new equipment and put myself deep in debt, but got the things I knew I could use to get me started. Today, Kunkle has two dump trucks and a semi in his arsenal, along with a John Deere Skid Steer and a myriad of other necessary instruments. Kunkle also has a full time job, serving as an operator running the slag plant for Fulton Mill Service in Delta from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. After clocking out of the steel plant, he punches in for several hours of work at either his tree service or trucking/ driveway repair business. I work until dusk mostly, Kunkle said. I get all the trucks ready the night before, get all the equipment ready, and set out for whatever job is out there. The world revolves around money, so I want to get out there and do whatever I can to find work he added. Kunkles employment at the slag plant is considered a blessing. His employment gave him a chance to learn that the slag stone remnants from Fulton Mill Services slag plant would be suitable for resurfacing driveways. The slag from the plant is really earth friendly, he said. The slag doesnt require having someone like me going to a quarry and blasting for it, all I have to do is deliver it.
SPREADING IT EVEN ... K & K 2 Trucking owner Gahlon Kunkle spreads his time as well as the slag for various drive and parking projects.
It costs so much to place gravel on your driveway because you have to really dig to get that limestone. Kunkle delivers tons of different slag blends each month. Requests for the product is growing since many have realized the material holds up just as well as limestone. It depends on a persons preference, he said. A person may want limestone instead, but overall, the slag is a good product. Affordability, Kunkle said, is the biggest draw for his driveway business. By using slag, a customer can expect to pay less per ton. The slag is a recycled material, he said. So I can charge less than someone else to do a driveway. His clients are satisfied with his product. Based on a friends recommendation, Scott Sloan, of Heartland Energy USA in Stryker, hired Kunkle to do some driveway work. Sloan said he was looking for a cost-effective alternative for his driveway project. After inquiring on prices, he realized Kunkle offered the best alternative. He widened the drive and used two different grades for the driveway, Sloan said. He redid the existing driveways and parking areas. The work was done really well, and it was definitely affordable, so I would call on him again, he added. Kunkle estimates 80 percent of driveways in the Fulton and Williams County regions are unpaved. That statistic, he said, showed promise for his business venture. So far, Kunkle receives daily calls requesting his services. You have to figure most of the people out here have large driveways, and arent going to have asphalt leading from roadway to the house, Kunkle said. For most people, its too expensive to asphalt a large driveway. Driveway work can be extensive to minor. If a customer requires a new driveway or parking area, Kunkle will remove the sod to deter grass growth, then place the gravel. The process doesnt take a great deal of time, but it all depends on what a person wants, he said. I can take a few days to make sure the job is done right. Minor driveway repairs are also welcome. Kunkle said driveways with washed out areas, or potholes, are an easy fix. I have to scrape out the bottom of the potholes, then level it out again with the gravel, he said. It happens a lot with gravel driveways where there are weaker areas on the turf and it bottoms out. Despite a busy schedule, Kunkle finds time to donate his services when asked. Recently Kunkle delivered about 800 tons of slag to the Delta section of the Northwest Ohio Rails to Trails Association. Fulton Mill Service provided the slag while Kunkle shuttled and distributed the material to the trail project. NORTA President, Jay Budde, said the Wabash Cannonball trail is an on-going project, requiring some additional gravel and other services to make it serviceable for the public. On Saturday, April 6, Kunkle delivered the slag to the Delta trail portion near State Route 109. Budde said several other local businesses donated their time, spending their Saturday resurfacing the trail. Kunkle enlisted the help of his family to take part in the work as well. The work hes done for us here is a real benefit to us at NORTA, Budde said. The work is superior quality, and I am glad we were able to connect with him. Its the generosity of the community that is making our rails to trails project such a success, Budde added. Budde said the work from all individuals, including Kunkle, came at the perfect time. Budde had hoped portions of the trail would be completed before the Delta Steel Run on June 1. The race is part of the Delta Sesquicentennial Celebrations, and co-sponsored by North Star Bluescope Steel and Worthington Steel. To have the trail prepared just before this race is a benefit for everyone, Budde said. Without the donations from everyone, this project would not have been completed in time. Meanwhile, Kunkle is thinking he could evolve into other business ventures, but what that may be is up in the air. There are so many things you can do out there if you are willing to go out and learn, then get the work, Kunkle said. Right now, I have enough to keep me going, but I always keep my options open for other things. Future customers are welcome to contact Kunkle at 419237-7078. Tristan Crowe may be reached at publisher@thevillagereporter.com.
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Make Gutter Cleaning Plant A Self-Sustaining Garden This Spring Safer & Easier
Gardening is a rewarding hobby with thousands of devotees. Backyard gardens provide beauty and aesthetic appeal to a landscape, and they can be a source of homegrown food and a natural habitat for outdoor wildlife. A self-sustaining garden can be an efficient addition to any home, but gardens require upkeep and a certain measure of dedication. A self-sufficient garden is a garden that sustains itself through proper planning and execution and represent a lifestyle where individuals are responsible for producing their own foods -- thus sustaining themselves without the need to shop for produce elsewhere. When planting your own self-sustaining garden, consider the following tips. Start with soil. Healthy soil is essential to a thriving garden. The soil must have the right pH, correct texture and composition, and be full of nutrients. Very often the native soil in yards is not adequate to keep a garden thriving. In such instances, the soil needs to be improved. Adding compost -- which can be produced in the yard as well -- to the soil will enrich the soil with nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. Maintain proper soil consistency. Soil that is the right consistency, meaning the optimum balance of sand, clay and actual soil, is another necessity for a self-sustaining garden. The ideal ratio should be 40 percent sand, 40 percent silt and 20 percent clay. Having the right balance of soil can secure root formation and promote proper drainage. Test the pH. Certain plants need a specific pH in order to grow. A neutral pH range is typically ideal for growing vegetables. A pH tester can be purchased from a gardening center. Amend the soil accordingly to get the soil back to its correct level. Know the growing season. Vegetables should be planted during the season in which they will thrive. Peas, beets and cabbage, for example, are cold-temperature vegetables, while cucumbers, squash and melons thrive in warm climates. Plant accordingly so that the vegetables will have the best chances for success. Purchase quality seeds. Use fresh seeds, particularly ones that have been harvested from your own garden the year before, to have the best chances for germination. Or buy seeds from a reputable source, like a garden center or an online retailer who specializes in vegetable seeds. Start seedlings indoors. You may want to work with seedlings indoors so that you can monitor growth and care for them more easily. Then transplant the seedlings outside when they are stable enough for the elements.
USING THE RIGHT STUFF ... Using power equipment to mix up the soils of your garden can help get a better soil mix and speed up the process of getting your garden planted.
THINK SAFETY ... Using the right tools makes gutter cleaning faster and easier. Nobody enjoys gutter cleaning. Yet its much more important than many homeowners think. Rain flowing over windows, doors, and siding can rot fascia as well as door and window framing. It can erode the soil around your home and damage its foundation, and also cause a wet basement, mold, and mildew. To help keep gutters operating properly and to protect your investment, try these tips: 1. Think Safety First. Always use a solid, quality ladder to reach your gutters. Safety glasses and gloves are a good idea, too. And watch out for power lines. 2. Use the Right Tools for the Job. In addition to needing something to contain gutter debris, youll also need a tool to scoop it out. The Gutter Getter Scoop from Working Products, Inc. is a good option. Its the only flexible scoop shaped to fit all gutters, plus it will keep your hands away from the debris. 3. Dont Over-reach. Over-reaching can destabilize your ladder and cause you to fall. Instead, consider using a special tool to extend your reach. The Gutter Grabber is GETTING A GOOD START ... Starting seeds inside is a a cleaning tool on an extension pole that lets you clean up great way to get a start on the growing season. to 18 feet of gutter without moving your ladder. 4. Check the Downspouts, Too. If the spout is clogged, a coat hanger or the handle of your Gutter Grabber can help get the debris out of the spout. Then, use a garden hose to flush out any remaining debris. For stubborn clogs, it may be necessary to remove the downspout and GENERAL CONTRACTORS back flush it with the hose. Covering your downspout with a strainer such as the Gutter Getter Big Top Downspout Strainer will help reduce future clogging, too. 5. Clean Gutters Anytime They Need It. Most homeowners know they need to clean their gutters in the fall. PRE-ENGINEERED INDUSTRIAL But once you understand the importance of gutters, youll COMMERCIAL CUSTOM DESIGN know why its vital to clean them out anytime they get full. FARM RESIDENTIAL PRE-ENGINEERED INDUSTRIAL Authorized NUCOR Builder To protect the value of your home, keep your gutters clean 419-636-3173 throughout the year. COMMERCIAL Edon CUSTOM DESIGN 419-636-3173 - 06559 ST. RT. 34 - siebcon@bright.net 06559 ST. RT. 34 EDON Gutter Getter products are available at ACE Hardware. FARM RESIDENTIAL For more information, call (800) 582-9491 or visit www. guttergetter.com.
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Watering 101: Help Your Lawn Thrive Through The Soon To Come Heat
KEEPING CODE ... An unfinished basement allows homeowners to transform the room into anything they desire. But there are some dos and donts to finishing a basement, including ensuring the project adheres to local building codes. tain materials may need to be used to mitigate water issues before finishing can take place. DONT simply cover up potential hazards, such as mold or mildew. Have them treated instead. Otherwise, you could have a breeding ground behind drywall that could lead to unsafe conditions in the home. DO have a radon test. Radon is a hidden killer that can cause cancer. DO keep the possibility of flooding in the back of your head. Finishing a basement is a job that can add a lot of usable space to a home. Go about the project in the right way to keep within budget and have a room that is safe and functional.
KEEPING GREEN: Effective watering can help a lawn and garden survive the dog days of summer. Summer can take its toll on just about everyone. Even the most ardent fan of summer eventually grows weary of a heat wave, which can make something as simple as walking down the street seem exhausting. While human beings have their ways of surviving summer heat, such survival can be more difficult for your lawn and garden. Certain grasses and plants thrive in hot weather. But when the dog days of summer arrive, even those grasses and plants built to withstand the summer sun can suffer. Thats why watering takes on such importance in the summertime, when grasses and plants need water to avoid drying out and possibly even dying. The following are a few basic watering techniques to help homeowners keep their lawns going strong through the next summer swoon. Water when its coolest. Watering when the temperatures are their lowest might seem counterintuitive. After all, homeowners might think their grass and gardens need water most when the temperature is at its highest. But watering when the temperature is cooler decreases evaporation, meaning your lawn will get the water it needs and wont lose any to steamy conditions that cause evaporation. This is especially important when the amount of water you can use is limited by a drought restriction. Youll want to make sure the water you can use is actually going to the lawn and not evaporating as youre watering. Watering in the early morning or in the evening, when the sun is not as strong and the temperatures are generally at their coolest, also reduces the likelihood that your grass will burn. Thats because water attracts the sun, and a lawn thats wet in the middle of a hot day might attract too much sun and cause the lawn to burn. Recognize that not all plants are the same. How much water a plant needs and how frequently it needs to be watered largely depends on how deep its roots are. A plant with shallow roots wont need to be watered for long periods of time, but it will need to be watered frequently, whereas a deep-rooted plant like a tree or a shrub will need to be watered for long periods of time but not as frequently. Research the plants around your property to determine the depths of their root systems and water accordingly. Lean on mulch to retain moisture. Mulch is often considered an aesthetically appealing addition to a landscape, but it serves a practical purpose as well. Mulch retains moisture during the hot summer months, reducing the need to water -- a valuable benefit during a drought restriction. Mulch also makes it difficult for weeds to grow, which can keep homeowners from spending hot summer afternoons pulling weeds out of their gardens and flower beds. Strategically locate sprinklers. Sprinklers should be located so no water is ending up on the driveway or sidewalks around your property. Watering the concrete or asphalt is wasteful, and thats water that could be going toward your plants. When watering by hand, be sure all of the water is finding its way to plants and not on any walkways. Successfully watering a lawn and garden during the dog days of summer can greatly reduce the risk of ending summer with a lawn full of bald spots and a garden filled with wilted plants.
ASPHALT Asphalt is an affordable paving material, which likely plays a role in its popularity among homeowners. Asphalt is also easy to install and requires little maintenance, two additional benefits to homeowners who dont have much time to install or look after their driveway. Asphalt is made from a combination of concrete, gravel and tar, and though its easy and affordable to install, asphalt, as any kid can tell you, can get awfully hot under the summer sun. Asphalt can also crack rather easily, so homeowners must weigh its immediate affordability against the likelihood that perhaps it will need to be replaced sooner than other materials. BRICK Brick is among the more expensive paving materials, as brick is a labor-intensive material to install. But brick allows homeowners to create distinctive patterns that can add quite a bit to a homes curb appeal. Once installed, brick driveways dont require much maintenance, though cracked bricks will need to be replaced.
your freezer, we have the solution for you, an automatic generator system. These generator systems can power your entire house or just the necessities. And they will turn on and off automatically even if youre not home. So give Woolace Electric a call at 419-428-3161 for an estimate.
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Keith Sigg - Cell: 419-572-9842 Joel Wanemacher - Cell: 419-822-1880 8025 Co. Rd. 19 Wauseon, OH 43567
GREAT PLACE FOR GATHERING ... Fire pits have become popular for back yard gatherings and family entertainment. The outdoor fire pit has transformed the concept of backyard entertaining. Homeowners understand how a fire pit can add value to a home and make their yard an inviting place to be on a summer evening or a chilly autumn night. Outdoor fire pits are a relatively new creation that continue to grow in popularity. Once available strictly through specialty retailers, fire pits can now be found on the shelves of many home improvement and big box stores as well as online. Fire pits can add a lot to a homes exterior entertaining area. Some fire pit styles and materials will last longer than others. Homeowners should assess their needs and the space available before choosing a fire pit for their home. First, homeowners must decide if they want a permanent or portable fire pit. Portable fire pits are freestanding units that can be moved around the yard on a whim. They also can be loaded into the car and taken to a neighbors house or even to the beach. Portable fire pits are less expensive than permanent models, and some homeowners prefer a trial run with a portable pit before deciding to install a permanent structure. Portable fire pits are made of metal and usually coated with a fireproof paint. Over time, exposure to the elements can cause the metal to rust or weaken, something homeowners should consider prior to purchase. Homeowners also must consider a fuel source. Wood is a common fuel source for fire pits. Wood can be inexpensive, especially when gathered from around the yard. However, a wood-burning fire will constantly have to be fed with new branches. If you want to have a roaring fire but dont want to maintain it, then a gas-fueled fire pit is better. Natural gas fire pits can run off of a portable propane tank (think barbecue tank) or be directly connected to a homes natural gas supply. Now you can decide on the style. Gas fire pits will give you a greater number of design options, but there are still plenty of choices with wood fire pits. From bowl-shaped pits to rectangular-shaped pits to barrel-style pits to chimineas, there are designs to fit most preferences and size constraints. Once you have chosen a fire pit, safety should prevail. Here are some tips to consider. * Keep the fire pit away from the home and objects that can burn. Maintain a safe distance from the fire pit at all times. * The best place to have the fire pit is on hard stone, cement or tile. Portable fire pits can be placed on patio stones in the lawn. * Use a screen to keep embers and sparks from escaping during use. * Keep children a good distance away from the fire pit and always supervise when the pit is in use. * Make sure the fire is completely extinguished before going in for the night. * Do not use any accelerants. * Buy a vinyl cover to protect the fire pit from the elements when not in use.
FENCING OPTIONS ... There are many different fencing materials that can coordinate with a variety of budgets. Fencing serves many purposes. Some homeowners erect a fence for privacy, while others do so to contain pets and children. Because fencing can be expensive, some homeowners look for ways to cut costs, which can be relatively easy, especially for those homeowners willing to consider various materials when erecting their fence. Traditional fences are available in materials ranging from wood to vinyl to metal. Homeowners have other options at their disposal if they prefer a more natural fence. Different shrubs, trees or grasses can be planted to create a barrier between properties or within the property. When choosing a fencing material, consider that even a less expensive material may prove more expensive in the long run if it needs significant maintenance or has to be replaced in just a few years. Therefore, the most cost-effective fencing material may not necessarily be the least expensive one at the store. Here are some materials homeowners can consider. Found material: Repurposed wood or metal can be crafted into a rustic, one-of-a-kind fence. Materials can be found that are no cost, requiring only the cost of labor. Should you build it yourself, this can be next to nothing. Sometimes existing fences on another property can be disassembled and re-built on your own property for little to no cost as well. Chainlink/chainwire: Chainlink fencing is one of the most economical types of boundary fencing. The fencing comes in a variety of diamond sizes and is fixed to galvanized pipes spaced across the perimeter of the property. Although it is some of the least expensive fencing, it does not of-
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1051 East Main Street Montpelier, Ohio 419-485-3059 305 Mike Street Pioneer, Ohio 419-737-2389
Does Time Of Year How To Repair Unsightly Bald Spots In Your Lawn Affect Roofing Jobs?
Lawn care aficionados know how a single bald spot can make an otherwise luscious lawn look worn down and poorly maintained. A bald spot can stick out like a sore thumb, while several bald spots can compromise a homes curb appeal. Treating bald spots typically depends on what is causing the bald spot. Bugs, dryness, pet waste and damage from mowers are some of the more common causes of bald spots. The following is a breakdown of these different causes and how best to address each situation so you can restore your lawn to its natural beauty.
ROOF REPLACEMENT ... If your roof needs replaced, typically the best time to do it is as soon as you can, regardless of the season.
DRYNESS A lawn can go dry because of drought in the summertime or during the winter months when there is not much rain or snowfall. Homeowners cannot change the weather, but they can help their lawn avoid becoming the burned or yellowed turf that often results after extended periods of dryness. Fertilizing the lawn during the spring and summer is a good first step. This helps the lawn grow in healthy and thick. Once you have fertilized, dont cut the grass too short. When grass is cut too short, the soil struggles to retain moisture, which can eventually lead to bald spots if weather conditions are dry. During especially dry periods in the summer, watering might be necessary. You wont have to water frequently, but be sure to water deeply so the water can reach the roots of the grass. PET WASTE Waste from pets can cause bald spots on a yard. This might surprise some homeowners, but pet waste contains a high level of concentrated nitrogen that, when applied to a lawn, can burn the grass and cause bald spots. Urine is most likely to cause bald spots, but fecal matter can as well. When addressing the problem of pet waste on your lawn, make sure no one elses pets are the cause of the problem.Neighbors out walking their dogs should be discouraged from allowing their dogs to use your lawn as a restroom. If this does not work, then erect a fence or some type of structure that makes it difficult for other peoples pets to access your lawn. When its your own pet causing the damage, address the spots where your pet relieves itself as quickly as possible. Watering the area within eight hours can significantly reduce the risk of lawn damage by diluting the nitrogen levels. Another way to address the issue is to encourage the animal to use various spots in the yard,
LAWN DAMAGE ... Even the cutest pet can contribute to bald spots on your lawn.
rather than continually using the same spot. Flush each area with water immediately after the pet is finished. If the damage is already considerable, remove the damaged grass and reseed the spot. MOWER DAMAGE Sometimes Mother Nature and mans best friend are not the culprit with regard to bald spots on your lawn. Human error can cause bald spots, too. Dull mower blades or grass that is cut too low can cause bald spots. Fortunately, this is easily remedied. To avoid bald spots, make sure mower blades are sharpened at the beginning of each mowing season, as dull blades damage the grass, which is then forced to use valuable nutrients to treat torn grass, weakening the lawn over time. When mowing, make sure youre not cutting too low so the soil can retain as much moisture as possible. This will necessitate more frequent mowing, but this, too, can prevent bald spots, as it ensures those parts of the grass that contain chlorophyll will not be removed. Bald spots can turn a pristine lawn into an eyesore. But treating bald spots can be easy and, when done effectively, the lawn can be restored quickly.
There comes a time in many homeowners lives when theyre faced with the reality that a roof replacement is necessary. A roof can last between 15 and 30 years, and a person who owns an older home may find the lease has expired on the current roof. Is there a particular time of year that is better for having a roof installed? It depends on different factors, including the availability of a roofing contractor. According to the site, The Average Cost of Things, courtesy of the Home Buying Institute, across the country one can expect to spend $18,000 on average to replace a roof with asphalt shingles. Use of other materials, like tile or metal will cost more than this. In general, those living in big cities tend to pay more than those in rural areas. Because a roof replacement is expensive, it is something that some homeowners prefer to put off until it is absolutely necessary. Others are interested in finding the best rate around and hiring reliable roofers for the job. Its important to note that there really is no season where roof replacements are off-limits. Most roofers can do the job effectively unless the temperature is below freezing or if there is significant rain in the forecast. In fact, planning a roofing job for the middle of the winter actually may work to a homeowners advantage. This is typically a slow time of year for some roofers, and they may be anxious to get work this time of year and be willing to negotiate on price. Theres also a good chance that the roofer will not be bogged down with other jobs, enabling the company to start on a home right away. Some roofers prefer working in the colder weather to sizzling up on a roof under the hot sun at another time of year. Naturally the spring is a prime time of year for roofing projects. After the rainy season, the weather is generally comfortable and homeowners are thinking about the projects they will commence. A busy time of year for home improvement all around, homeowners may find that they have to compete with others for a good date to have a roof installed. They also may be paying top dollar for the work and materials that are in high demand. Another thing to consider during the busy season is that a project may be rushed along in order to move on to the next job or one being worked on concurrently. This may lead to corners being cut or less attention to detail. A person may be limited in their choices of roof installation during the summer. Extreme temperatures can make working on the roof hazardous and uncomfortable for workers. For those who live in a climate where the temperatures generally cause the mercury to soar, choose a cooler time of year. Many homeowners opt to thave a roof replacement in the autumn. The crisp weather and the decline in
home-renovation projects overall can make this a prime time to contract with a quality roofer. If the roof is very much damaged, replacing it before the harsh, winter weather sets in can be advantageous. Some homeowners find they can get a discount on a roof installation if they bundle different renovations together. A contractor may offer a special on siding and roofing together. For those who have the funds, this may be the opportunity to get two jobs done at once. A roofing project is no small undertaking, and homeowners are wise to get several referrals and investigate a variety of companies before settling on one. Review sites, such as Angies List, or simply wordof-mouth appraisals from friends and family members can help make choosing a roofer an easier decision.
Getting help at Ace is like going to help yourat neighbor. Getting Ace is like going to your neighbor.
Your neighbor with all the know-how and best brands like Craftsman, Scotts and Weber. So, for the people and brands you can trust, come to Ace, the helpful place. Your neighbor with all the know-how and best brands like Craftsman, Scotts and Weber. So, for the people and brands you can trust, come to Ace, the helpful place.
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