Small Fixtures Make a Big Design Impact

Small Fixtures Make a Big Design Impact 

(NewsUSA) - When considering lighting design, chances are you picture major fixtures like ornate chandeliers, groupings of colorful pendants or elaborate track lighting. However, even small fixtures, such as portable lamps, can transform a room, according to the American Lighting Association (ALA).

Joe Rey-Barreau, education consultant for the ALA and associate professor at the University of Kentucky's School of Interior Design, says, "With the proper light bulb and shade, a lamp can provide effective task lighting while also serving as an important decorative element in a space."

It is important to view a lamp as a piece of the overall whole, not the only source of lighting in a room. One or two lamps cannot effectively illuminate a large space if they are the primary light source. Think of table and floor lamps as lighting accessories that create layers of light throughout a room.

Layering Your Lights

"Layering of light means there are multiple types of lighting fixtures in a single space," says Rey-Barreau. "For example, in addition to recessed and decorative lighting at the ceiling, table and floor lamps can provide lighting for dark corners."

The difficult part of deciding which lamps work best for your space may be choosing from the nearly infinite range of types and styles available.

Focusing on Bulbs

While in the past, table and floor lamps typically used incandescent bulbs, the introduction ofLED light bulbs now provides a better option. LED bulbs are five to six times more efficient than incandescent bulbs and can last 25 times longer, making them both money and energy savers.

"It is important to choose the correct color temperature of the bulb," Rey-Barreau says. "Incandescent and halogen bulbs all have the same warm color temperature, which is a measure of how visually warm or cool a space appears. LED bulbs are available with different color temperature ratings, and consumers sometimes make the mistake of choosing a color that appears too cool or bluish."

Bulb packaging includes detailed information about light output, wattage consumption and color temperature. Rey-Barreau suggests choosing a color temperature in the 2700K to 3000K range, which will match the color of incandescent and halogen bulbs.

Your local ALA-member store has a large selection of lamps, as well as trained professionals to help you find the perfect fixture for your home. More information is available online at americanlightingassoc.com.

Give Your Kitchen a New Look With a Lighting Update

Give Your Kitchen a New Look With a Lighting Update 

(NewsUSA) - A simple, inexpensive lighting update can completely transform your kitchen from dull to dynamite.

According to the American Lighting Association (ALA), good lighting design makes kitchens more functional, as well as more enjoyable, relaxing and suitable for entertaining.

"Good lighting is vitally important in kitchens," says Jeff Dross, corporate director for education and industry trends for Kichler Lighting. "Perhaps more work in the home is done in the kitchen area than any other room, and having improper lighting would be tantamount to candles in a warehouse or flashlights on a factory floor.

"Food preparation is a vital, though sometimes tedious, task performed virtually every day," Dross continues. "Cooking in a poorly illuminated space only increases the drudgery and the danger. Good lighting adds to the overall space, and increases the pleasure in using said space."

The very fact that kitchens are spaces where people spend a lot of time makes them valuable areas when reselling a home, as well. For this reason, many experts agree kitchen renovations are among the best ways to boost the value of your home. Along with bathrooms, kitchens are an integral part of the home to virtually everyone.

Unfortunately, when it comes time to updating kitchens with a new look, lighting does not always get the attention it deserves. According to Dross, this is to the detriment of home design.

"Lighting is as important a design element as wall coverings, flooring and countertops," says Dross. "It can make an average kitchen look great and elevate a fabulous design to perfection. Need to increase the visual size of a room without tearing down a wall? Add lighting above the cabinets and at the toe-kick space.

"The importance of good, high lumen output for task (under-cabinet) lighting cannot be over emphasized," Dross adds. "Wall-mounted cabinets create shadows on countertop work surfaces. The only way to alleviate those shadows (and the accompanying dark spots on the cutting board) is with under-cabinet lighting."

Another factor to keep in mind relates to energy usage, and by extension, your power bill. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that American consumers use electricity for lighting the kitchen more than any other room in the house. So, to save electricity costs, invest in energy-efficient lighting in the kitchen.

To see the most up-to-date fixtures and shades, and to consult with a professionally trained lighting expert, visit your local ALA-member retailer, or go online to americanlightingassoc.com.

Thermal Imaging Camera Helps Find Hidden Damage in Your Home

Thermal Imaging Camera Helps Find Hidden Damage in Your Home

(NewsUSA) - Spring is in the air, which means it's not only time to start deep cleaning your home, but ensuring it's protected against damage caused by Old Man Winter.

For homeowners who have gone through especially harsh weather (a shout-out to the Northeast and New England seems to be in order), the spring thaw that occurs from record-breaking snowfall can result in irreparable water damage if not taken care of properly.

For roofs, it's important to check for ice damming. This happens when snow on the upper portion of your roof melts and freezes on the lower half, creating a wall-like formation around the gutter. Water then becomes trapped behind the ice dam and can leak into your home. In addition, water-stained ceilings, drywall and damp areas in the basement, cracks in concrete floors and musty, wet odors can also mean trouble and should be checked.

To help find these sometimes-hard-to-see signs, you might want to consider investing in a thermal camera. This pocket-size device plugs into smartphones and puts technology that was once unaffordable into consumers' hands.

It works like this: all objects radiate heat or "infrared light" that can be seen by true thermal cameras even in the absence of visible light. While this technology has primarily been used by law enforcement and the military, one company has brought the cost down to an affordable price for the everyday consumer.

Seek Thermal, a California-based technology company, has created a thermal camera that works with a free app to turn invisible heat energy into an image that can be seen from your phone or tablet. This, the company says, allows homeowners to easily expose and record water damage, so something can be done about it before having to make costly repairs.

For one Boston custom home builder, the Seek Thermal camera has made a difference in how he approaches his business.

"With the Seek camera we're able to isolate the exposure without cutting holes in the sheetrock," says Chris Rapczynski, president of Sleeping Dog Properties. "Now, with the thermal imaging camera, we're able to quickly walk in, assess whether the water has infiltrated a wall cavity, and all of that can be done in minutes.

"Having a thermal imaging camera bridges the gap between applying some effort and having certainty the effort that's been applied is the fix," says Rapczynski. "And the clients just want the fix."

For more information, visit www.thermal.com.

How to Make Outdoor Spaces as Beautiful and Comfortable as Indoors

How to Make Outdoor Spaces as Beautiful and Comfortable as Indoors 

(NewsUSA) - While making the inside of your home beautiful is naturally a focus, there's so much to be gained from an outdoor space. Beautifully designed and decorated, outdoor areas not only expand upon actual "livable" space but enable you to enjoy your home al fresco -- and the good news is, you don't have to sacrifice style or the comfort of the indoors.

With everything from sofas and sectionals to colorful Moroccan-inspired floor rugs and outdoor chandeliers, one home-furnishings retailer is bringing both style and comfort from the indoors out. And with signature designs from its outdoor collection available in stores across the country and hundreds of furniture plus accessory options on its website, Arhaus is placing a world of outdoor décor options at your fingertips.

"We have something for everyone, for every style, for every space, and designs are made to weather the elements," says Gary Babcock, chief creative officer for Arhaus.

Here are some key pieces to recreate rooms outdoors:

Classic wicker. "Wicker never goes out of style," says Babcock. Choose from a number of different looks by the retailer -- including occasional seating, as well as dining and accent tables. "Add a conversation piece to the setting," suggests Babcock, referring to a wicker wingback chair in a chic herringbone pattern.

Antique inspirations. European antiques inspired several aluminum designs by Arhaus -- from a Greek klismos chair to an English library-looking sofa with matching chair, chaise and end and coffee tables. "Stuart is the most traditional [aluminum] collection with an x-back design," says Babcock. Stuart features a chaise for two with shade overhead and privacy draperies.

Slipcovered upholstery. "We took our coziest upholstery collections and redesigned pieces to sit outside," says Babcock. Slipcovered in easy-to-care-for fade-resistant Sunbrella/Outdura fabric and underneath, cushions are guaranteed to fend off mold and mildew, and frames are "marine-grade" -- hence, waterproof and worry free.

Mixed materials. Reconstructed stone, lighter and more durable than concrete, is mixed with everything from metal to reclaimed elm and teak to create tables at varying heights and widths for any outdoor occasion.

Decorative accessories. Like any interior, accents pull everything together -- even outdoors. Consider a beautiful floral or awning striped rug, a patterned pouf, a mix of colorful accent pillows and handmade pottery in different shapes, sizes and finishes. For outdoor lighting, there's Arhaus' Claudette Chandelier, among other options.

For more information, visit www.arhaus.com.

6 Myths About Pet Allergies

6 Myths About Pet Allergies 

(NewsUSA) - By gaining a better understanding of the allergies caused by pets, you may be able to find a healthier coexistence with your furry friend.

According to The Humane Society, 62 percent of American households have at least one pet. Yet, an estimated 31 million Americans are allergic to animals, including up to 30 percent of those who have asthma. Here's what you should know about pet allergies:

Myth 1: It's only pet hair that causes allergies to flare up.

Not true. Pet hair is a nuisance and causes allergies, as it contains saliva or other pet proteins. Allergic reactions to pets are actually caused by pet proteins contained in pet dander, such as microscopic skin flakes, saliva and urine. Overactive immune systems in those with allergies attack these otherwise harmless substances.

Myth 2: Continuous exposure to animals will eventually desensitize you to them.

Not only is this not true, but in some cases the opposite is true. If you have a confirmed allergy to animals, it usually will not get better through increasing exposure. In fact, it may get worse.

Myth 3: With the right pet breed, allergy problems go away.

Not true. All cat or dog breeds produce dander. However, some breeds are believed to be better for allergy sufferers than other breeds. Typically the best breeds are those that shed the least fur and/or are the most frequently bathed. Also, smaller dogs produce less saliva than do bigger dogs.

Myth 4: Small animals are not a problem for allergies.

Wrong. Hamsters, guinea pigs, birds and other warm-blooded mammals can also trigger asthma and allergies in people with allergies to animal dander, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Myth 5: Outside the home, you shouldn't have pet allergies.

Not necessarily. Because of their microscopic size and jagged shape, pet allergens easily stick to clothing and other fabrics and are carried to other locations. Animal dander -- in sufficient levels to cause allergies -- can be found in many public places such as the workplace, classrooms and hospitals, according to the American Lung Association.

Myth 6: An air purifier will help with pet allergies.

It depends on the air purifier. Only a high-performance air purifier can help. Some allergy sufferers report that small, low-quality air cleaners make little or no difference at all. However, many allergy sufferers report that their IQAir air purifier, in combination with improved cleaning methods, has reduced or completely eliminated their allergic reactions to pets in their homes.

For more information, visit the IQAir website at www.iqair.com.

Weatherizing Your Home Can Mean Big Benefits

Weatherizing Your Home Can Mean Big Benefits 

(NewsUSA) - The volatility of Mother Nature this year has served as a reminder that electric and gas bills can get out of hand quickly -- especially when a home isn't properly weatherized.

"The U.S. Department of Energy suggests homeowners spend nearly 50 percent of their utility bills on space heating and cooling, with heating accounting for the largest portion of money spent," said Stephen Wagner, assistant category manager at ShurTech Brands, LLC, the marketers of the Duck brand. "With so much spent, it's important to take measures to save energy and money. Something as simple as weatherizing can help block air leaks and drafts, helping to keep energy bills low."

The good news is that if you haven't already weatherized, it's not too late. The following tips will help prepare your home for not only freezing temperatures but also the warmer summer months:

* Start with the attic. The top of the house tends to be forgotten as a source of energy loss. To combat this, Duck brand Attic Stairway Covers can help seal attic stairway openings by helping to block drafts, saving energy all year round. These pop-up covers are flexible and lightweight, easily repositionable to allow attic access and simple to assemble and install.

* Check the windows. As houses age, window casings loosen and become drafty. To add a barrier between your home and the elements, consider the Roll-On Window Kit from the same brand. The crystal-clear shrink film requires no measuring and provides an airtight seal over interior window frames, creating an insulating air space between the film and window glass.

* Make sure doors are properly sealed. Not only does weatherizing the bottom of doors help prevent drafts, it also protects from dust, insects and pollen during warmer months. Duck brand Double Draft Seal is designed to work on a variety of floor types and has a patented design that offers two layers of protection from drafts -- straps hold the seal in place while it "hugs" the bottom of the door from inside and outside.

* Consider the walls. You might not know this, but energy loss can also come from sources such as electrical outlets and switch plates on exterior walls. Socket Sealers prevent drafts by acting as a buffer between the outside temperatures and your home's interior.

* Fill cracks and gaps. For stationary components, caulk is the appropriate material for filling cracks and gaps. Around windows and doors, weatherstripping, such as Duck brand window and door weatherstrip seals, provides a barrier against the elements, helping to insulate your home. For those who live in extreme temperatures, try a Heavy-Duty Weatherstrip seal made with EPDM rubber.

For more information, visit www.duckbrand.com.

Light Up Your Landscaping Like a Pro

Light Up Your Landscaping Like a Pro 

(NewsUSA) - Summer months are quickly approaching, and many homeowners are getting lawns prepared for cookouts, family gatherings and entertaining late-night porch hangouts.

According to the American Lighting Association (ALA), proper outdoor lighting is just as essential for a beautiful landscape as are a lush lawn, bright flowerbeds and manicured shrubs.

Jeff Dross, corporate director of lighting education and industry trends for Kichler Lighting, recently explained that homeowners are opening up to new ideas with landscape lighting.

Use Indirect Light

Dross says homeowners have begun to shift toward indirect light for their landscaping, which essentially uses a source to reflect the light emitted by the light fixture. This creates more of an atmospheric tone, allowing the light to spread across a wall off the side of a house more effectively. Indirect lighting will illuminate flower beds, gardens, bushes or other decorative landscaping art. Additionally, the light will bounce off the ground and create a nicely lit walkway around flowerbeds.

The Shift Toward LEDs

LED light bulbs are beginning to dominate the landscape lighting industry. For the majority of homeowners, outdoor lights and landscape lighting are typically left on longer than other home lighting, which makes LEDs the more affordable and logical option.

Additionally, LEDs can be manufactured in much smaller sizes, which give homeowners more options to use them in unique spaces. Dross explains that LEDs are so small, they can be used as application lighting, as well as for aesthetic purposes. Hardscape designs are easy to mesh with LEDs, because the style creates both a passageway lighting source and indirect lighting for stone or brick landscapes.

Go Simplistic

One significant trend in landscape lighting is simplicity and cleanliness. What this means is more homeowners are choosing to go with fewer ground fixtures to illuminate their entire home. According to Dross, residents who simply align their light fixtures along a walkway in a very orderly and organized fashion are providing a lot of unnecessary light and wasting energy.

Going for a more simplistic design can still highlight plants and flower beds while giving just enough light to illuminate a backyard or around a patio. Also, homeowners are moving toward fewer lumens in light fixtures. This allows the light beam to spread more efficiently and even out the overall light sources.

To learn more about landscape lighting, visit a nearby ALA showroom, or go towww.americanlightingassoc.com.

Spring Cleaning Made Easy to Help Tackle Inanimate Allergens

Spring Cleaning Made Easy to Help Tackle Inanimate Allergens 

(NewsUSA) - While the spring season might be synonymous with cleaning your home, it doesn't mean that you're tackling it in the right way. So, if you're concerned about the allergens in your home, getting rid of a dust bunny (or two) and Fido's ferocious dander may not be enough.

In fact, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) supports this claim, stating, "When it comes to cleaning, many people may actually be doing it wrong, stirring up the very allergens they are trying to remove from their homes."

However, while keeping up with cleaning is vital for controlling indoor allergens, there is such a thing as being too diligent.

Take Jesse Tyler Ferguson, an actor on the hit show "Modern Family," who lives with allergies himself. Ferguson thought that obsessively cleaning his space was the way to go.

"Everyone knows I'm a neat freak, [but] I learned from AAFA that, like most of America, I was actually doing some things wrong and stirring up allergens instead of removing them," he said. "Now I look for Certified asthma and allergy-friendly products like Febreze Fabric Refresher Allergen Reducer (Unscented) and Swiffer Dry Dusters and Sweepers (Unscented) to help me clean the right way and reduce common allergens in my home."

The asthma- and allergy-friendly Certification Program was created by AAFA and the international research organization, Allergy Standards Limited (ASL), as the first program of its kind in the U.S. in order to reduce confusion about product claims targeting the asthma and allergy market, raise standards for these products, encourage innovation in the production of these products and raise issue awareness about asthma and

allergic diseases.

With these things in mind, Laura Dellutri, cleaning expert and author of "White Couch with Kids?" and "Speed Cleaning 101," offers the following tips revealing the places inanimate allergens -- from pollen, pet dander and dust mite matter -- may be accumulating and some cleaning advice that can help you remove them:

* Window dressing. Everyone cleans their windows, but few remember to dust window blinds and drapes -- places that can be havens for dust mite matter and other inanimate allergens. Using a Swiffer Duster (unscented, of course) can trap inanimate allergens two times more than a typical dusting cloth and three times more than a feather duster because it picks up dust and locks it away with thousands of flexible, fluffy fibers, designed to reach into nooks and crannies.

* Favor your fabrics. You may clean your couches, decorative pillows, upholstered furniture and carpets with a quick vacuum, fluff of a pillow or dusting. But spraying these hard-to-wash fabrics with something like Febreze Fabric Refresher Allergen Reducer (unscented) can help reduce inanimate allergens that can become airborne from fabrics as well. This nifty product reduces up to 95 percent of inanimate allergens like pollen, pet dander and dust mite matter that can become trapped in fabrics and soft surfaces.

* Clean smarter, not harder. Technology can be a beautiful thing, and it has revolutionized household cleaning with lots of gadgets and tools that make cleaning easier, faster and more effective. For instance, when it comes to removing inanimate allergens from your wood floors, using a Swiffer Dry Sweeper to trap and lock the dirt and dust, is two times more effective than a typical dusting cloth.

For more information, visit febreze.com and swiffer.com.

Bee Safe While Gardening to Protect Pollinators

Bee Safe While Gardening to Protect Pollinators

(NewsUSA) - Stinging insects such as bees and wasps play a vital role as pollinators that maintain the national food supply. However, a multitude of factors, including the lack of available natural habitats for foraging pollinators, diseases, harmful mites and improper pesticide usage, have threatened pollinator health in recent years.

As a result, many people have realized the importance of protecting pollinators and even developed gardens geared toward providing safe sources of nectar and pollen. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) wants to remind homeowners that while creating pollinator-friendly habitats is largely beneficial for both people and pollinators, it is important to keep in mind that some stinging insects can pose significant health and safety risks. In fact, stinging insects send an estimated 500,000 people to the hospital every year.

People with known allergies to insect stings or with asthma should be especially careful around pollinators, as stings could trigger a potentially life-threatening reaction. There is also a common myth that bees and wasps can only sting once before they die. This only holds true for some species of stinging insects, and people should always be cautious around hives and nests. If a person comes in close contact with a stinging insect, swatting at it will often provoke it to become more aggressive. The best course of action is to remain calm and slowly walk in one direction until the insect loses interest.

Maintaining a garden that serves as a welcome oasis for wild bees or community bees that are being raised by local professionals is a great way to protect pollinators. Without proper beekeeping training, however, homeowners should never allow stinging insects to take up residence on their property.

If a hive is spotted in or around the yard, a pest management professional or professional beekeeper should be contacted to safely remove it and, if possible, move it to a safe location where the bees can be allowed to thrive without posing any dangers to the public. If the hive is located in a building, utilizing a professional is also critically important to ensure every part of it is removed; any leftover combs could contain honey that can ferment and cause serious damage, as well as attract pests to the property.

For more information on stinging insects and the best ways to protect pollinators while keeping your family safe, visit www.pestworld.org.

Want a Cleaner Home? Easy-to-Clean Carpeting Is Key

Want a Cleaner Home? Easy-to-Clean Carpeting Is Key 

(NewsUSA) - Many homeowners love carpeting. Its look and comfort, in addition to its insulating qualities, make it an essential home-decorating element. The fear, however, can be the stains left behind, such as the red wine that accidentally slipped from someone's hand one holiday party or a pet that didn't quite make it outside.

In the event mishaps like these occur, it pays to have carpeting that is made from material that you know is worry-free and easy-to-clean. Mohawk Flooring, for example, offers just such a product.

"SmartStrand Forever Clean is the toughest, easiest to clean carpet on the planet," says David Duncan, Mohawk Flooring's senior vice president of marketing. "It really is the perfect carpet for families with kids and pets. Using the most advanced fiber innovation, it offers the highest level of beauty, comfort and performance available so you can live life worry-free."

Amazingly, SmartStrand is the first new fiber to be introduced in over 50 years, and is the only carpet that boasts durability and permanent, built-in stain resistance. As a result, it should be unsurprising that it is the highest-rated carpet for consumer satisfaction, cleanability and durability.

The difference, according to Duncan, is that it's the first carpet to combine built-in stain protection with a nanotechnology spill shield.

"Made out of triexta, a greener, more eco-friendly fiber, this fiber is the easiest to clean because it repels and prevents spills from absorbing into the carpet," says Duncan. "Thus, it cannot become a stain."

Mohawk says it has tried to minimize its usage of natural resources, which in turn has enabled the company to reduce its energy consumption of its carpets while creating a fiber that is long-lasting, and resistant to the toughest stains. Top that off with a carpet that can be easily cleaned with water and mild detergent -- no harsh chemicals or cleaners needed -- and you have a much more environmentally friendly flooring option.

For all the parents and pet lovers out there, know this: It's just a matter of time before gravity forces an unwanted mess onto one of your floors. And when it happens, you'll surely rest easier knowing that it'll be easy to clean.

For more information, visit mohawkflooring.com/foreverclean.

Simple Steps to Safeguard Your Second Home

Simple Steps to Safeguard Your Second Home 

(NewsUSA) - Owning a second home has many benefits: a potential rental income and a relaxing, reliable getaway, to name a few. However, second homeowners also must consider the challenges of maintaining a property left vacant for long periods of time.

Potential water damage is a key element of concern for homeowners who leave a second property for long periods. For example, a power failure and loss of electricity in the winter might result in frozen and broken pipes in a vacated summer house. An unsuspecting homeowner or renter could cause a flood by turning on the water. Home monitoring systems, such as the FloLogic System, are designed to provide remote monitoring of the water flow in a home. A sustained flow of water, whether from a pinhole leak, running faucet or flooding appliance, prompts the FloLogic System to send an alarm and shut off the water supply, so the homeowner can identify and address leaks before major damage occurs.

Many insurance companies offer reduced rates to homeowners who install the FloLogic System. Find out more about how the FloLogic System can give you peace of mind as you manage your vacation home by visiting www.flologic.com.

In addition to preventing water damage, owners of second homes can protect their property with these other simple strategies:

Protect the Pipes

For second homes in areas where the temperature dips below freezing, reduce the risk of a frozen pipe by leaving the heat running at 58 degrees Fahrenheit. Homeowners also should consider draining toilets, pipes and hot water tanks before leaving a vacation home for a long absence.

Protect Your Property

Be sure all windows and doors are locked and skylights and ventilation shafts are closed. Bring outdoor furniture inside. Secure bikes, boats and other similar items in a garage or shed. Move electronics, such as TVs and computers, away from windows.

Prepare for Power Surges

Unplug electrical appliances, including toasters and washing machines, for safety in case of an electrical surge.

Manage Your Mail

Be sure the post office has the correct forwarding address and the date on which to start forwarding your mail to an alternate location.

Know Your Pipe Type And Catch Leaks Early

Know Your Pipe Type And Catch Leaks Early 

(NewsUSA) - The saying "They don't make things like they used to," may apply to the plumbing in many homes built in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. During those decades, polybutylene was considered the great future of plumbing for the home. Pipes made from polybutylene (PB) cost half as much as traditional copper pipes, and they were lightweight and easy for contractors to install.

PB pipes became the standard for home plumbing in much of the United States, including the Mid-Atlantic, Pacific Northwest, and Sun Belt regions. Approximately 6 to 10 million American homes built during the period from 1978 to 1995 contain PB plumbing, according to home construction data.

However, if a home has PB pipes, its water system is doomed to eventually degrade and fail. The reason? The chlorine present in every public water supply degrades PB pipes and their fittings over time. The questions are when, and how this problem will occur. Chlorine exposure creates small leaks in PB pipes that can turn into large leaks and major flooding. However, a water monitoring system such as FloLogic can help spare homeowners the hassle of an expensive experience in water damage.

The FloLogic System (www.flologic.com) monitors the water flow throughout the home, and acts like a circuit breaker that shuts off the water if it detects any type of leak. The System sounds an alarm at a keypad, and it also can be linked to a home security system. With the FloLogic System, homeowners are instantly alerted to the presence and location of a leak, and can address it immediately.

PB plumbing problems have caused millions of dollars in damage over the decades, and it is often difficult for homeowners to distinguish what their pipes are made of without calling in a plumber. Completely replacing PB pipes can be expensive, but careful monitoring can catch a small leak before it becomes a costly one.

In addition to reducing the risk of water damage, the FloLogic System may even earn homeowners a discount on their insurance, depending on the company.

Visit www.flologic.com for more details on how the FloLogic System can protect your plumbing.

Protecting Pipes in Condos Can Create Good Neighbors

Protecting Pipes in Condos Can Create Good Neighbors 

(NewsUSA) - High-rise condos may seem like a dream for those craving an urban setting or for beach-going vacationers who long for a comfortable home, sans the hassle. But living in close contact with neighbors has its own set of challenges, like floods that cover entire floors, and quite often these issues can go unnoticed until it's too late.

To this point, a high-rise leak can become an even larger problem. All it takes is for one neighbor's child to leave a faucet on to cause irreparable damage to the ceiling of the unit below. A pipe could unknowingly sprout a leak, causing damage to several apartments and leading repairmen to search for several hours before a leak can be stopped.

In condominiums, water damage can affect multiple families' health (to say nothing of their wallet) because moisture can lead to mold, which is difficult to completely remove (and can mean thousands of dollars to do so). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mold can cause everything from eye irritation to troubled breathing, and after extended exposure, chronic lung disease.

Water damage from a neighbor starting a flood can also ruin personal property in the form of unsightly cracks or water spots on ceilings or walls and can also ruin antique carpet or hard-to-replace items. But floods are common. Case in point? In 2003, California alone saw insurance companies pay $500 million in water damage claims.

However, condominium communities can take steps to protect entire buildings from water damage. New products can detect and stop water leaks before damage occurs. For example, the FloLogic System (www.flologic.com), which won one of Popular Science's Best of What's New awards, acts like a circuit breaker for the home plumbing system.

As an automatic water shut-off device, the FloLogic System is able to monitor a condominium's water supply from one location in the main. When the flow through the system exceeds a preset limit, the product shuts off the water and sounds an alarm at the keypad, saving not only yours, but your neighbor's as well. The alarm can also be linked to a condominium's security system for increased awareness.

For more information, visit www.flologic.com.

Save Water by Stopping Leaks Early

Save Water by Stopping Leaks Early

(NewsUSA) - Water is a limited and essential resource, but too many people are unaware of how much is wasted. Believe it or not, the average American family uses more than 300 gallons of water each day, and 70 percent of that water is used inside the home. Unfortunately, much of that water is wasted without a homeowner's knowledge.

Water leaks are among the main sources of wasted water in the home, accounting for as much as 13.7 percent of a household's water use. That's more than the top household water uses, which include taking a shower, running the dishwasher or doing laundry.

However, some simple tips can help homeowners conserve water, prevent damage caused by leaks and save money on repairs caused by water damage.

Launder Less

Do fewer larger loads of laundry instead of more smaller loads. A larger load uses less water per pound of clothes.

Delay Dishes

Wait until the dishwasher is full before running it; a half full load wastes both water and electricity.

Improve Appliances

Data suggest that high-efficiency water-saving devices, such as low-flow showerheads and toilets, could save U.S. households 5.4 billion gallons of water and $11.3 million each day, and the low-flow devices that are currently available don't sacrifice water pressure for efficiency. But if more efficient bathroom fixtures aren't an option, simply taking shorter showers can save two to five gallons of water per minute.

Get a Grip on Leaks

New leak detection products can help homeowners identify leaks early, so they can be managed before water damage sets in. The FloLogic System, for example, serves as a circuit breaker for the plumbing system in the home, sending an alarm and shutting off the water supply when a leak is detected. This early detection feature is key to preventing water damage associated with an unidentified and unrepaired leak. As an added bonus, some insurance companies will provide discounts to homeowners who install systems such as FloLogic.

For more details about how the FloLogic System can help you save water, and money, by managing leaks, please visit www.flologic.com.

Prepare Your Pipes for a Winter Cold Snap

Prepare Your Pipes for a Winter Cold Snap  

(NewsUSA) - Winter has a certain amount of charm that comes with it -- from sledding and outdoor ice skating to snowmen and brightly lit trees. But when icy weather hits, and your pipes are ill-prepared, it can mean a long (and costly) spring.

Here's what happens: When temperatures drop, trapped water in pipes can freeze. Since water expands when it freezes, it can cause the pipes to rupture. When the pipes thaw, that's when homeowners might come home to a flooded basement.

Instead of waiting before it's too late, now is the time to insulate your pipes before the cold weather returns. Do it in the comfort of warm weather at your leisure so you're not rushed when the cold weather arrives.

Insulate pipes

This action step performs double duty, keeping hot water pipes warm and protecting cold water pipes from freezing, which can lead to immediate energy returns. Homeowners with existing insulation should check it before the cold weather comes to town. If either the insulation or its tape looks cracked or crumbles to the touch, it should be replaced. If the pipes have either wire or tape heaters, homeowners should contact the pipe heater's manufacturer before attempting to insulate pipes.

Old Man Winter

As a homeowner, you most likely will not be needing your hose or sprinklers this winter season. To that end, drain and store your lawn and gardening supplies before the first freeze. Even well-insulated homes reach freezing temperatures if left unheated.

Anti-leak technologies

Like any other industry, new technology is being developed to prevent water damage. One product, the FloLogic System, acts like a circuit breaker for the home plumbing system. The FloLogic system monitors a home's entire water flow from a single position on the water main. When the flow through the system's sensor exceeds a preset limit, the system shuts off the water and sounds an alarm at the keypad. If connected to a security system, FloLogic will notify the monitoring service. Shutting off the water prevents flooding, saving you from potentially costly repairs. Many insurers will also offer discounts to homeowners who use the FloLogic System.

If, however, a pipe is already frozen, homeowners should turn off the water, slowly thaw the pipe, then call a plumber to make necessary repairs.

For more information about the FloLogic System, and protecting your home from water damage, visit www.flologic.com or call 1-877-FloLogic.

Ramping Up Your Home's Curb Appeal Is a Smart Move 

(NewsUSA) - If people wanted their homes to look like all the others on the block, we wouldn't be so obsessed with "curb appeal."

Doesn't matter whether you're looking to sell -- the National Association of Realtors says 49 percent of all houses are bought based on that one factor -- or planning to stay put longer than the lines for Powerball. Every homeowner craves what's been described as "that quality that makes you say 'wow' when you first see it."

So, how to achieve it? Read on for some of the best ideas from the pros.

* Addresses aren't just for mailboxes. You'll score points for originality by painting each numeral -; in big, bold strokes -; on separate flower-filled planters placed near the front entrance. "You spruce up your landscape with plants, so why not liven your home address the same way?" suggests Angie's List.

* Glam the front door. Painting it lipstick-red is in, for those who dare. For those who don't, or whose houses aren't a neutral color, Forbes advises to "try a more muted shade like sea-blue, sage-green, or even black."

* Replace your roof. This is the biggie, given Better Homes and Garden's oft-cited calculation that 40 percent of a home's curb appeal hinges on the condition of the roof. Now, you may be only slightly embarrassed by your neighbors' not-so-subtle hints that yours looks like it's been hit by a drone. But if you're even toying with the idea of selling and that's the first thing potential buyers see from a distance?

"It's a huge turn-off, and only makes them predisposed to find even more things they hate about the house," says Patsy O'Neill, a sales associate with Sotheby's in Montclair, New Jersey.

The fix? Jason Joplin, program manager of the Center for the Advancement of Roofing Excellence, is just out with a glowing review of the gorgeous new line of Glenwood Shingles from GAF, North America's largest roofing manufacturer (gaf.com). "It's the industry's thickest triple-layer asphalt shingle," he says. "Not only does that result in an authentic wood-shake look at a fraction of the cost of traditional wood shake, but you're also getting enhanced fire safety and lower maintenance." And, hey, you're also doing your part for the environment.

* Pressure time. If you think of it as water pistols for adults, using a garden hose (set to max) to blast away dirt and debris from your property can actually be fun. But as HGTV cautions: "Be careful not to dislodge, or get any water underneath, your home's siding."

How to Select the Perfect Ceiling Fan

How to Select the Perfect Ceiling Fan 

 

(NewsUSA) - More than a simple cooling device, many ceiling fans of today are high-tech works of art for your home. Ceiling fans can be a design element with sophisticated automated features. When selecting the perfect ceiling fan for your space and lifestyle, the American Lighting Association (ALA) suggests you consider several additional factors.

Think about how high or low tech you want to be. A very sophisticated system might seem intimidating to some, while others want much more than a simple on-off switch. Also ask yourself whether you want your fan to be an integral part of your interior design or simply an inconspicuous addition to your room.

Home Automation for All-in-One Control

Efficient airflow and alluring designs continue to drive the industry, but more people are looking to home automation systems to easily control their devices from a smartphone. One example is Fanimation's fan Sync, a Bluetooth-operated ceiling fan control.

According to Nathan Frampton, president of Fanimation, controls like fanSync will become more commonplace in the coming years. Technology of this magnitude is only expected to grow as more homeowners sync their home's lights, central air thermostats and security systems to an all-in-one platform.

Designs to Suit Today's Lifestyles

Just like the trends in home lighting design, ceiling fans have their front runners. Interior design styles are moving toward more organic aesthetics. This means designers are crafting rooms around exposed plumbing pipes, door and cabinet trimming and existing hardware, which helps mesh the entire room together organically.

To complete your design scheme, choose compatible trim and accent options for your ceiling fan. And be sure to consider the architecture of your home. Many newer homes have high ceilings with large great rooms, which give homeowners the chance to decorate their homes with larger or more ornate ceiling fans.

Trends with Regional Appeal

Geographic location often affects ceiling fan trends and finish selection. Frampton says, "We see certain trends in different regions of the country, as well as around the world. For example, in the Southwest, bronze is a prominent choice, and internationally, nickel and white are more common."

For advice about which fan fixtures and styles are best suited for your home, talk with a professionally trained expert at an ALA-member showroom, or go online to americanlightingassoc.com. With the right tools and information, you can easily find the perfect ceiling fan to make your home more functional and beautiful.

Smart Homes Save Time and Money

Smart Homes Save Time and Money 

(NewsUSA) - The smart home has gone mainstream. Currently available technology allows homeowners to further personalize the environments in their homes and to monitor their homes remotely. Consider the increasing popularity of smart appliances such as motion-sensor lights, programmable thermostats and sound-control surround systems. Such technologies will likely expand as ways to make homes not only more comfortable, but also safer and more efficient. Smart home technology is becoming increasingly affordable and will become increasingly common in new homes. For example, in 2013, approximately half of all new homes built in the United States included structured wiring, which is needed for the transmission of high-speed video.

Some examples of the latest smart home technology could fall into two categories: Home comfort and home monitoring. Homeowners are able to set up systems that program the house doors to unlock, certain lights to come on, and the thermostat to adjust to preselected settings automatically when someone arrives at the home. In addition, homes can be programmed to send emails or text messages to alert homeowners to potential problems, which can be addressed before they escalate into expensive repairs.

Another point in favor of smart home technology: resale value. If you want to boost the value of your home, smart home technology is a worthwhile investment, and a system that monitors plumbing is a good place to start.

Preventing water damage is one area in which smart home monitoring technology can be especially helpful. Water damage accounts for a significant portion of home insurance claims, and being able to identify potential water problems and address them early can save time and money.

The FloLogic System is engineered to act like a circuit breaker for the plumbing system in the home, and it may be fitted to any home, old or new. The system monitors the water flow throughout the home. The system is designed to shut off the water if it detects any sign of a leak, from something as large as a broken pipe to as mall as a pinhole. It sounds an alarm at the control pad and shuts off the water. The FloLogic System may be linked in with a home security system and will be WiFi enabled by year end.

For more information about how the FloLogic system works, visit www.Flologic.com.

Blow Off the Heat By Turning On a Fan

Blow Off the Heat By Turning On a Fan

(NewsUSA) - Believe it or not, cooler weather is on the way. For most parts of the country, mid-September brings a break in the heat, and signals a good time to turn off your air conditioner and turn on your ceiling fan to start saving energy and money. This Sept. 18 marks the third annual National Ceiling Fan Day (NCFD).

Many major ceiling fan manufacturers, the American Lighting Association (ALA) and leading energy-conservation groups invite everyone to join the fight to reduce energy consumption by turning off their central cooling systems and relying on ceiling fans to save trillions of kilowatt hours of energy consumption.

As an extra incentive to participate in the energy-saving effort, many fan retailers are offering discounts to consumers in conjunction with NCFD. You can find a list of local ALA-member fan retailers at AmericanLightingAssoc.com.

If every American participates in NCFD by turning off their AC and using fans for their cooling needs, the United States will save enough energy to power the entire city of New York for months. And it saves money too. Operating a fan can cost as little as $1 per month. That is quite a savings compared to approximately $100 per month to run an AC unit in a typical home.

Initiated by fan manufacturer Fanimation, NCFD is supported by other ALA-member fan manufacturers, including Casablanca Fan Company, Craftmade, Emerson Ceiling Fans, Hunter Fan Company, Kichler, Matthews Fan Company, Minka-Aire, Monte Carlo Ceiling Fan Company, Progress Lighting, Quorum International, Regency Ceiling Fans, Savoy House, Sea Gull Lighting, The Modern Fan Co., Vaxcel International and Westinghouse Lighting, as well as The Home Depot, Lowe's Companies, Inc. and the ALA. Many of the nation's leaders in energy conservation and efficiency are also on board. Those supporters include the U.S. Green Building Council, Alliance to Save Energy, Affordable Comfort, Inc., Environmental and Energy Study Institute and Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance.

For more information on how to save energy with ceiling fans and for a list of ALA-member fan retailers and manufacturers, go to AmericanLightingAssoc.com.