R&A Magazine: Ask the Experts

That's a great question! If you're going to make the investment in a new heating/ cooling system for your home, understanding this terminology is critical for making proper equipment comparisons. This way, you'll know exactly what you're buying! Let's examine the four ratings that commonly apply to air conditioners, air source heat pumps, and fossil fuel (gas or oil) furnaces and boilers: AFUE, EER, SEER, and HSPF.

AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) — This is a percentage rating (applicable to gas or oil fired equipment) that shows the amount of heat that is actually delivered to the home compared to the amount of fuel that is supplied to the furnace or boiler. In simple terms, a unit that is rated at 95% AFUE converts 95% of the supplied fuel into actual heat. The other 5% is lost during the combustion process (out the vent).The minimum requirement for the Tax Credit is: 90% for gas and oil boilers, 90% for oil furnaces, and 95% for gas furnaces.

EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) — This number represents a measure of performance for air conditioning equipment and heat pumps in the cooling mode, but is often emphasized less than the more commonly known SEER rating. The difference between EER and SEER is that EER is calculated at maximum air conditioning load (95 degrees). That's why it is necessary to know both the SEER and EER ratings when comparing air conditioners or heat pumps. The minimum requirement for the Tax Credit is 13 EER for split air conditioners and 12.5 EER for split heat pumps.

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) — This is another measure of performance for air conditioning equipment and heat pumps in the cooling mode. It is the ratio of the total cooling output divided by the total energy input over the course of the season. It is important to note that this number is calculated using an outdoor temperature of 85 degrees. The minimum requirement for the Tax Credit is 16 SEER for split air conditioners and 15 SEER for split heat pumps.

HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) — This is the measure of performance for heat pumps in the heating mode. It is calculated in a similar fashion to SEER and is divided to regions based on winter temperatures (we are considered Region 4). The minimum requirement for the Tax Credit is 8.5 HSPF for split heat pumps.

One factor that all of these ratings have in common: The higher the number, the more efficiently the equipment operates. Keep this in mind as you compare!

If you have any questions, or would like to be connected with a qualified HVAC professional, please call us at Conestoga Supply (717) 569-3246.

Outdoor lighting brings an element of security, ambience and style to your home's exterior. With electricity costs on the rise, many home-owners are looking for ways to cut back on their energy consumption—indoors and out. Fortunately, today's ever-evolving lighting products and solutions allow you to maximize curb appeal AND energy savings.

You can create a zen-like ambience with contemporary Asian lanterns or pay homage to a beloved tree with in-ground landscape lighting. Since energy-savers like CFLs are now designed for nearly every lighting application, the hardest part of creating an energy-efficient lighting plan will be deciding on a style.

As for which provide the greatest payoff, for immediate savings with a minimal investment, swap your incandescent bulbs for fluorescent versions. Fluorescent and CFLs are four times more efficient than their incandescent counterparts and affordable for most homeowners.

Fluorescent lighting has come a long way from its roots as the blue-whitetoned overhead lighting source used in schools and industrial settings. It's now available in warm, inviting shades, so there's no need to choose between form and function. One limitation of the CFL is that they don't offer optimal performance in extremely cold weather. Look for CFLs with a cold weather ballast for the best possible performance from your lamp when the weather dips below freezing.

Another great and relatively easy way to cut back on your energy use is to install dimmers on your exterior lighting. By dimming a light source by 50%, you increase its life span 20 times and reduce energy consumption by 40%. Dimmers also provide an aesthetic advantage—allowing you to adjust your home's exterior lighting to your preference.

If maximum savings and minimal maintenance top your list, you can't beat LEDs. Once primarily used in single-source applications like pens and electronics, LEDs are now emerging on the exterior lighting market. They're not only the longest lasting light sources available, but they also reduce energy usage by 90%—a huge savings over incandescent bulbs.

LEDs are now available in path lights, accent lights, security lighting—you name it. They're more expensive than CFLs, but they offer an unsurpassed electricity savings and long life span. As LED technology advances, the cost for the consumer will decrease.

If you're not ready to invest in LEDs, at a minimum, we recommend them for water applications and hard-to reach lighting. In a pond, LEDs offer superior protection against corrosion. And, if you're installing lights high in a tree, you'll be glad you won't have to replace your LED any time soon.

For a huge selection of outdoor lighting fixtures, lamp-posts, landscape lighting and more, visit your local Yale Lighting Concepts & Design showroom, log onto www.yalelightingconcepts. com or simply call 1-877-336- 0342 today to speak with a lighting consultant. Please visit our web site for locations, driving directions, showroom hours and contact information.

Because geothermal systems take heat from the earth to heat your home and transfer heat to the earth to cool your home, the system offers extremely high levels of efficiency. In fact, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) calls geothermal the most energy- efficient, environmentally clean and cost-effective system available today.

A big draw of geothermal is the ultimate cost savings. Nearly half of the energy used in your home will come out of the ground for free! In addition to the energy savings, geothermal systems are incredibly green. Heating your home with a geothermal system is up to 70 percent less expensive than heating your home with electric, oil or gas. If you plan on living in your home for the next 5 to 10 years, the monthly energy savings will easily pay for the cost of the system. If a move is in the near future, you will not realize a significant return on your investment, but it may help your resale value.

What's involved in the installation? The geothermal system is made up of underground pipes and a heat pump. Installing the pipes involves drilling wells and digging trenches underground in your yard. The pipes, which form a closed loop, are filled with water that acts as a heat transfer agent—transferring heat to and from your home.

Because the piping needs to be underground, digging the trenches are a must. Before scheduling the installation consider the following:

• How you use your yard. Plan the geothermal installation for a time when you typically spend less time outdoors. For some, the installation is best mid-fall or during the warmer winter months.

• Consider your 3-to-5 year plan. If a landscaping project is planned for the future, schedule the geothermal installation to coincide with that work.

• The type and size of your yard. Geothermal installation is most ideal for flat or gently sloped lots with accessibility. Properties with a lot of trees, severe slopes or limited space between neighboring homes make installation difficult due to the size of the equipment needed to move in and out of your yard.

Costs and tax credits
While the cost of a geothermal system can range between $15,000 and $30,000, government tax credits and utility rebates are making the investment much more attractive and affordable. In fact, over the course of five years the energy savings realized make geothermal more affordable than purchasing a high efficiency gas furnace or heat pump.

Homeowners who install a geothermal system qualify for a federal tax credit of 30 percent of the total installation cost through the residential renewable tax credit program, valid on systems installed before December 31, 2016. This credit generally offsets the cost of well drilling, and is separate from the $1500 tax credit for other high efficiency upgrades such as water heaters, windows, doors and roofs.

Groff's has been installing geothermal systems since 1993. For more information on geothermal systems or to learn if geothermal is right for you, contact Groff's Home Comfort Team at 717-464-9446 or email Brent Hess at brent@Groffs.com.

Regarding burning, granite is formed by extreme heat and pressure combined underneath the earth's surface, so no, it cannot burn with ordinary use.

As for staining, as a natural stone, granite itself is 95-98% stain resistant. There are a few colors, however, that may absorb moisture with prolonged contact easier than others, and a problem may arise with darker pigmented liquids. To reduce this risk and for added protection, however, our company re-seals the countertops after fabrication with a specially formulated stone sealer which impregnates the granite. We also recommend a product called Dupont Revitalizer, for daily use as a cleaner formulated with a sealer that actually seals your granite every time you clean it.

Because of its natural beauty, durability and ease of maintenance, granite continues to be a very popular choice for kitchen countertops as well as various applications in the bath. Should you have any questions regarding its maintenance or repair, or if you would like to discuss possible applications within your home, I invite you to call me at 717.333.2133, email me at gomarble@gmail.com, or better yet, visit me at our Lititz showroom and design center at 569 Furnace Hills Pike. Our showroom hours are Monday thru Friday 10-6, and Saturday 9:3-3.

Many people are inspired to start new projects with the new year. If you are looking to start a remodeling project, there are definite things to consider as you put your dream into a concrete plan. First, make a list of your expectations/desires and then be willing to do some legwork and actually interview construction firms to see if they can match your expectations. Main expectations that need to be discussed are quality, contracts/payments, and communication/scheduling.

More important than any of these concerns, however, is that you feel comfortable with — and not intimidated by — the company you choose for your construction project. Trusting your contractor is critical. You can build that trust with open and honest communication through every step of the process. You want to be sure that your contractor is a trusted advisor, not a salesman.

Quality: No one intends to hire a less-than-qualified contractor, but how do you identify one who will be able to provide the level of quality you desire? The best referral comes from a satisfied customer — so asking friends and family is definitely a good option. Granted, what your friend may consider quality or exceptional service may not match your standards. If you find a contractor that you feel might work, you should ask to see a complete list of his clients to broaden the scope of your sampling. A quality company should have available a list of clients who are willing to invite you into their home to view the craftsmanship or at least be willing to discuss their experience by phone.

In 2008, the Pennsylvania Legislature passed the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act. The law requires that all contractors who perform at least $5,000 worth of home improvements per year register with the Attorney General's Office. You can check to see if a contractor is registered by calling the toll-free hotline, 1-888-520-6680.

Contracts and Payment: Once you have established that the quality of craftsmanship meets your expectations, you should discuss contractual agreements and payment guidelines. Nothing will sour your dream remodel as fast as finding out deep into the project that it's costing you more than you can afford! At the onset, ask whether your contracts are guaranteed. Guaranteed contracts mean that the construction firm has taken the proper precautions when bidding the job to assure that the labor time included in the contract is sufficient for the job to be completed within the contract price. Make sure to make allowances for special materials like cabinetry, custom windows, plumbing fixtures, electrical fixtures and items that may need to be special ordered. This allows you, the homeowner, to have the freedom to spend or save as much as you would like while selecting the products you want. Items such as lumber, drywall, paint, insulation and other construction materials that don't have as much of an aesthetic appeal are usually automatically included in the contract price. If the cost of these items or the labor to install them exceeds what is estimated by the contractor, the construction company eats the cost, not you. In the event that you want to change the floor plan or select a different item than was originally selected, the contractor should have a system in place to inform you of any extra costs that might be associated with the changed order. These steps will allow you to stay informed as money is spent to ensure you don't exceed your budget.

Communication and Scheduling: Communication and schedule expectations are key to any relationship with a contractor. Find out if the contractor guarantees his schedule. This guarantee should include a detailed, written schedule that spells out what will take place each day. The power of preparation and having a written plan is essential for a remodeling project to be completed effectively and efficiently. In addition, a detailed job schedule will ensure the proper products will be ordered and the right construction applications will be completed.

If you have any questions or concerns about your remodeling project, contact one of the experts at AB&K — Affordable Bathrooms and Kitchens at 717-715-9488.

There are many ways to dress up the exterior of your home without spending a lot of money! I routinely notice homes that with a few inexpensive exterior changes could easily go from ordinary to eye-catching. Beyond the personal enjoyment of feeling good about how your house looks, improving your home's appearance will most likely increase its value. The added curb appeal could more than pay for the cost of the improvement. With that in mind, I'd like to share a few of the more popular, low-cost ideas that we use to create better-looking homes all over central PA.

Replace a Bay/Bow Window. Old, worn out bay/bow windows can greatly detract from your home's overall appearance because they are usually a large part of the facade. They also tend to "date" a house. Aesthetics aside, you're probably losing a substantial amount of energy through that old glass as well! Today's bay/bow windows come with a tremendous amount of interior and exterior options including multiple colors, pre finished wood or laminate interiors, Corian seats, decorative art glass, etc. Also, a new bay/bow window provides a great opportunity for our next idea...

Add Specialty Roofing. Small sections like a bay/bow window, a porch roof, or a "pent" roof provide an ideal location for a specialty roofing product. Standing-seam copper or steel, synthetic slate shingles, or designer luxury shingles in a variety of colors can provide a beautiful accent to the front of your home.

Add Specialty Siding. A front porch and reverse gable in the front of your home are great places to add a specialty siding like cedar shakes, scalloped shakes, or board and batten siding. The definition and character that specialty siding provides will add a huge "wow" factor to your home's appearance.

Replace your Front Door and/or Storm Door. For most homes, the front door is the focal point of the house! New doors are surprisingly inexpensive and they can dramatically improve the aesthetics of your home! The styles and options are almost limitless. Also, many homes have an attractive front door that is covered up by an old, unattractive storm door. Adding a new "full-view" storm door in a color that matches or enhances your entry door can do wonders for your home's appearance. Again, for both of these options, you will most likely increase your energy efficiency as well.

Add or Replace Shutters. Shutters are a great way to add color and definition to a home. They are easily installed and come in a wide variety of refinished colors that will never need to be painted. Styles include louvered, raised-panel, board and batten and more. Arched or elliptical tops can be added to match similar windows. Decorative pieces such as "S" hooks and hinges can also be added to enhance an authentic, traditional look.

Add Window and Door Headers and Surrounds. Headers and surrounds can take an ordinary-looking window or door and give it character and class. These options are available in a large selection of pre-finished colors and styles. Surround profiles can be subtle with a basic flat option or molded profiles and keystones can be used to add more flair. Overhead garage doors, which often dominate the front of a home, can be greatly enhanced with the addition of a surround system such as a wide header with a keystone and fluted pilasters along the sides.

These are just a few of the possibilities that can be employed to increase your home's curb appeal without spending a lot of money. Most of them can also be done with minimal intrusion into your home and your lifestyle. At Eby Exteriors, Inc., we gain a lot of satisfaction from improving the appearance of the homes we are privileged to work on! We'd love the opportunity to meet with you and share some ideas as to how we can take YOUR HOME from ordinary to EXTRAORDINARY. (717) 733-9142 ebyexteriors.com Route 272, Akron.

Here are some questions and answers that will help you gain a better understanding of landscape design and construction.

What is the difference between landscape architect, landscape designer and landscape contractor? Most states require a landscape architect to pass a rigorous licensing exam and be registered with their state's Board of Landscape Architects. They have either (or both) an undergraduate or graduate degree in landscape architecture and have apprenticed with a licensed professional. Those who have not taken and passed the licensure examination may not use the title "landscape architect." A landscape designer, as opposed to a landscape architect, does not have any requirements — anyone can call themselves a landscape designer. That is not to say there are not talented and professional landscape designers. A landscape contractor is someone who installs the landscape based on plans from the landscape architect or designer. Sometimes the word "landscaper" is used for a contractor or someone who maintains the landscape.

What types of services can landscape architects offer? This is a diverse and often misunderstood profession. Services range from concept sketches and hourly consults to master plans, construction drawings, bidding, tree tagging and supervision. Landscape architects help design all aspects of the built environment and are concerned with aesthetics as well as function — they lay out roads, buildings and parking lots, sidewalks, steps, water elements, planting and site furniture including lighting. Some landscape architects are involved solely in site engineering like storm water management.

Why is a Master Plan so important? It is the 'big picture', a 'roadmap', and will save you heartache and money in the long run. No matter what size your property is, starting with a plan — a visual, two-dimensional long-term strategy for getting from point A to point B — is essential. It need not be detailed... it doesn't necessarily need specific plantings, materials or construction methods, but it should show areas and relationships, for example house to street, driveway to path, patio to lawn, and planting areas that define outdoor spaces. Because most people do not implement the entire plan all at once, the details are figured out later, when a particular phase of the plan is ready to be started. Master plans should be done in combination with sectional drawings or photographs. This helps in understanding the third dimension and allows the mind to better grasp what views may need to be screened, enhanced or framed, as well as more complicated grading issues signaling the need for retaining walls and steps. Some homeowners may be able to do this on their own, but often require assistance from a landscape architect, who can think more artistically and pull all the programmatic elements together — sometimes just having an objective, independent party will bring some unique and inventive ideas to the table.

What will a Master Plan cost? The answer will depend on several things: the size of the property and time it will take for design and presentation, the involvement of the client and number of meetings required, and the ability of the client to visualize in plan view or their need for sketches and imagery to assist them. Some presentation techniques are quicker than others and may not need to be rendered in color, so that can reduce the time and ultimate cost of the plan. After the initial consultation and a better sense of what is required, a fee proposal can be developed.

What season is the best time to begin the planning process? The myth is that I am less busy during the winter months. Often I will begin in the late fall for a project hoping to be installed in the spring. Projects requiring Township approvals can take even longer, so it's best not to wait!

Hopefully this information is useful and puts you in a better position to proceed with your upcoming project. For more information, I encourage you to visit my web site at www.howardjaysupnik. com, or better yet, give me a call at 519.1554.

Yes, you can get a tax credit of up to $1,500 on both entry doors as well as patio doors. However, entry and patio doors will only qualify if they meet the 30/30 rule. That is a U-factor of 0.30 and a solar heat gain of 0.30. The style and the quality of an entry door will often determine whether or not it will make the grade. For example, many entry doors today with decorative glass units will not qualify since the manufacturer cannot incorporate Low-E glass into such a unit which is vital to a product to qualify.

Many of your higher quality entry doors are not only the most attractive and well insulated but come with greater security features. Some of the features to look out for when shopping for a security door is the gauge of the steel surface—the heavier the gauge the better. Look for a security lock block located inside the structure where the knob-set and deadbolt are mounted on the door. Heavy-gauge steel reinforcement of the door frame and a multipoint locking system go a long way in making a door secure.

As for making sure your new door will qualify for the tax rebate, just remember that a quality professional company will always show documentation stating which products do and do not qualify for the rebate.

For additional information on energy efficiency tax credits go to www.energystar.gov or visit me at Aspen Home Improvements. By phone I can be reached at 569-3700.

Hardwood flooring is a beautiful and durable floor covering that can provide a home with a feeling of warmth and elegance for many generations. There are several processes to consider when evaluating your hardwood flooring options.

Screen and Recoat. This process involves deep cleaning the floor to remove build up dirt. The floor is then lightly sanded and a fresh coat of finish is applied on top of the existing finish. This new coat of finish refreshes the appearance of the floors. The screen and recoat process is suited for floors that are in good condition but have some scratches, scuffs, or wear marks.

Refinish. Unlike other floor coverings, hardwood is able to be refinished. The refinishing process involves sanding the boards down to raw wood. The floor is then stained and finished with polyurethane. The refinishing process is great for giving an existing floor an entirely new look while saving the time and expense of replacement.

Dust Containment. Our top-of-the-line Dust Containment System greatly reduces the dust and mess traditionally associated with the process of sanding hardwood floors. Our tools connect to a trailer-mounted 27 horsepower vacuum that efficiently exports the dust from your home. This is vastly superior to the outdated method of attaching collection bags to the sanding equipment.

Additional Wood Floors. Because hardwood floors can be refinished, existing areas of flooring can be expanded to accommodate a renovation or addition. Site finishing newly installed and existing hardwood floors at the same time creates seamless transitions and a uniform finish across the floor.

Caliber Hardwood Floors Inc. has been serving the Central Pennsylvania region for 17 years and offers a full line of hardwood flooring services. Please contact us for an in-home consultation.

Trying to compare the greenness of one flooring product to another is like trying to compare two people—each will excel in his own way. Choosing products that not only provide a healthy environment for the family, contribute to a sustainable planet and are a lasting value can be simplified if you remember three questions to ask before you purchase. These have to do with: Source, Indoor Air Quality and Life Cycle Analysis.

Source? Find out where the material used in your flooring choice originated. Hardwood should come from a managed forest and be certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) which provides a clear and transparent chain of custody that consumers can depend upon. The FSC is backed by all major environmental groups in the US. Look for the FSC logo on the products you want. When you are interested in carpet, there are a variety of choices with the green label. Depending on whether you want carpeting made from sustainable fibers (those that can be used for the same purpose over and over again), from recycled fibers or fibers from natural substances, your flooring salesperson can help you sort through the options.

Indoor Air Quality? When it comes to providing the best air quality in living spaces you will want to select flooring that emits low VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) that are used in the manufacturing process. Dust, mites and various allergens are in the air of most homes and carpet will trap those as they settle so they can be removed with regular maintenance using a good vacuum cleaner and occasional professional cleaning. Hardwood and laminate do not trap allergens as they settle but these are easy to clean from the surfaces with regular maintenance. Ceramic tile is, by its very nature, an ecological product and is made from natural materials. It can easily be incorporated into green design and is also easily maintained. Rely on your flooring professional to help you find those choices that are right for you.

Life Cycle Analysis? How long will your choice of a floor last and what will happen to the material if, or when, it is replaced? Hardwood and ceramic tile are considered permanent materials and are excellent choices for lifetime wear. Ceramic tile, in addition, is manufactured from recycled material added to natural raw materials like sand, clay and minerals. Cork and bamboo flooring is made from renewable resources and also have a long life expectancy. Every manufacturer of carpet will have some statement as to the longevity expected from their product. You may want to look beyond how long a given carpet will remain on your floor and extend your thinking to what will happen to the carpet when it is removed from your home. Whether your choice of carpeting is manufactured from recyclable, recycled or natural fibers will have a bearing on its complete life cycle and you should be able to depend upon your flooring retailer to be knowledgeable in each case.

Our professional staff at FlorHaus has an extensive knowledge of the products we offer in the showroom. FlorHaus salespeople are ready to answer any reasonable question concerning the origin and integrity of the brands carried in our inventory and can help you compare the choices to arrive at the best solution for your home. Visit us on Route 772 in Leola and ask to see the latest in green flooring resources available today.

Regarding roof repair versus replacement, all homeowners struggle with this question. Your roof always appears to be doing its job of keeping you dry, but its color may be fading a bit. On the other hand, you might be noticing some dark spots, or some other ominous sign that has you wondering about your roof. Regardless, before calling roofers and having them bid on a roof replacement, you can do a little of your own research.

The web site www.repairvsreplace.com is an incredible tool that can give you a general idea of the status of your roof. Before logging onto the site, take a few moments to walk around your home and assess your roof. Afterwards, take the seven-question quiz on repairvsreplace.com. In just minutes, you will be given an idea of whether your roof is healthy, may require some repair, or should be replaced immediately.

It's important to note—if your roof is beginning to look a little ragged or you’re questioning whether it should be replaced—you should have it inspected. In fact, the National Roofing Contractors Association recommends you have this performed at least once a year. While your home may not appear to be leaking now, spots and discoloration can be signs that a leak is beginning. Repairvsreplace.com also is a great resource to find qualified roofing companies who can perform these inspections honestly and give you a true status report of your roof.

On the issue of who is doing the work, our recommendation is don't trust your home to just anyone! Look for the Technician Seal of Safety.

Inviting a contractor or service employee into your home is an important event. Why? Well, you’ve heard it on the news from time to time—someone assaulted in their home, or family heirlooms go missing after a service call. How do you protect against strangers taking advantage of you while in your home?

Look for the Seal of Safety! What is the Seal of Safety? It means three things: first, all employees are subject to periodic drug-screening; second, employees go through an intensive criminal background check as part of the hiring process; and third, each employee is professionally trained to be "best in the business."

Making sure your family and home are safe and secure during a service visit is a very important part of what Hackman Roofing does. Look for the Seal of Safety on their employees' identification cards. Better yet, DEMAND the Seal of Safety from anyone entering your home on any service call.

There are many factors to consider in selecting a roofing contractor. Rest assured that safety, service and quality workmanship are all important parts of what HACKMAN Roofing • Siding • Spouting will bring to your home—along with a guaranteed solution to your roofing problems. Discover how easily you can experience the HACKMAN Roofing • Siding • Spouting way of doing business. Call 717-367-2348, today!

With rising energy costs, many homeowners are looking for efficient heating alternatives. This time of year, especially, we field a lot of questions on the topic of fireplaces, fireplace inserts, and stoves. Since you appear to be looking for general information, maybe the best approach is for me to address those questions we hear most often.

Our home has an existing fireplace but we seldom use it because of its inefficiency…what heat we have goes right up the chimney! Would we benefit much from an insert and if so, what's involved in the installation? Yes, you would definitely benefit from an insert. How? An insert is a complete unit made to slide into your fireplace and has its own drafting system, therefore minimizing heat loss through the chimney. An insert more than doubles and sometimes triples the efficiency of the fireplace. They come in gas, wood, pellets and are relatively easy to install.

The previous owner of our home added a sizable addition to the rear of the home. While we love the space in the warmer months, we just can't get it to a comfortable temperature in the winter. Any suggestions? In a room as you have described, a free-standing gas stove or fireplace would be the perfect fit to heat that room without draining your pocket while doing so. I would definitely recommend a direct vent unit which uses outside air for combustion and can be installed easily with very little hassle. No chimney to build—just vent through the wall or through the roof.

My wife and I are planning an addition to our home and we'd like to include a fireplace in the plans. What can you recommend that would satisfy our desire for something that is both aesthetically pleasing AND energy efficient? When looking to add a fireplace in a new addition a gas fireplace is the most reasonable choice for several reasons. A good quality fireplace will look very realistic and is also very energy efficient. Varying brands have varying looks and efficiency ratings of which Mendota is one of the leaders. We have numerous Mendota models on display in our showroom.

Can we use a gas fireplace in the event of a power outage or does it need electricity to operate? While a gas fireplace is pleasing to the eye and efficient, it is also an excellent source of heat in the event of a power outage. It can run without electricity with the ease of a remote or wall switch while being powered totally on its own power source.

How do I light my gas fireplace? There are three basic ways to light a fireplace. Most fireplaces can be lit manually with a wall switch; however, most people will have their fireplace hooked up to a wall thermostat or a remote. Some remotes have their own built in thermostat as well.

Can a gas stove or fireplace help lower my heating bills? Yes, a gas stove or fireplace strategically placed can lower your energy bill by as much as 25% by turning your main heat source down and being comfortable in the rooms you use most. For more information, please don't hesitate to call. Better yet, come visit us and browse through our showroom for a first hand look at the numerous options.

Having to wear sunglass at mealtime is fine...but in the house? Having a bright sunny room is great until your air conditioner can't keep up with the heat. You have low-E windows but your room is still warm in the summer and cold in the winter. And on top of that, there is the fading of your carpet and furniture. You are not alone—we hear these comments often.

Light & Energy Control Options
For the exterior, overhangs and awnings are an available option. For interior options, there are solar film, blinds, shades, draperies, and shutters—each with many options of light control, light filtering, room darkening, and appearances. With so many options for covering your windows, it can be very confusing and expensive if the wrong product is selected. Function and decorating should both be considered when selecting your window coverings. Every product has many options—style, color, and textures. So before you invest in new window coverings, it is best to select a local company who can help you make the right selection along with expert measuring and installation.

Low-E Window & Fading Rays
Low-E windows help reduce the energy loss by 30-50%. You can improve the energy loss by adding window coverings. When adding window coverings and tinted solar film, you will improve the energy loss and reduce the fading rays into your home. The benefits are lower cooling costs, saving your family photos, and preventing the fading of your artwork, flooring, area rugs, furniture, wall coverings, and fabrics.

Window Covering Options
All window coverings help defend your home against the winter's cold and summer's heat; however some options are better than others. One of the most energy-efficient window coverings is the honey comb construction. The cells of the honeycomb shade actually trap the cold or heat, decreasing the intensity of the temperature as it enters the room. Single, double, and triple honeycomb shades are available. Hunter Douglas has a product called Architella that has one of the best R factor (resistance value). Architella has a honeycomb within a honeycomb which improves its R factor.

There are pros and cons of the different types of window coverings. If you do not like having your view of the outdoors obstructed, Silhouette/Luminette shades and sheers are another option. You can see through them when they are in the lowered/drawn position. Silhouettes have the option of closing the "fabric louvers" for privacy and light control like the Luminettes which is vertical with a sheer fabric in between. Sheers do not offer privacy like the blinds and shades. Lined draperies can be added to your sheers for privacy and energy control especially when interlining or insulated linings are added. Lined soft shades are a great option to cover your windows.

Vertical and horizontal blinds help with the light and energy control. Due to the slats construction, heat and cold are not blocked as well as the honeycomb construction. They both, however, have great light control and filtering along with different levels of privacy options depending on their slat position.

Custom window coverings are the best due to the proper sizing to your window opening. If blinds do not properly fit the windows, heat and cold will transfer through the open areas.

Depending on your decorating style, there are many functional window covering options for every taste. There are many options of natural, polyester, flame retardant, textures, colors, and more.

Being energy minded can be beautiful! If you need help, call or visit us at Heritage Design Interiors.

We hear this question quite often. At a minimum we recommend that you “rough in” the structural basics. Even if you move before you implement your enhancements, you’ll have a more marketable home when you sell it. A qualified installation technician like me is key to all of these initial processes. Based on our experience, we suggest the best bang for your buck is to lay the groundwork for a central vacuum system.
Tubing is inexpensive, and when the walls are open, it is much easier to install. Your labor for installing a central vacuum system later could be up to four times more expensive.

Next on our list would be structured wiring which would bring all your phone, coaxial (TV cable) and network cables from various info port locations within your home back to a common cabinet and terminated to allow flexibility for future technologies. The new gaming systems which allow online play with friends around the world are a great example of emerging technologies. Five years ago few would have even considered running a network cable to the TV location.

We'd next recommend that you provide a conduit pathway from that fancy new, wall-mounted TV location to your amplifier, DVD player, etc. A simple coaxial cable to a TV no longer does the job.

Next on our list would be a toss up between a whole home audio and an intercom. Those big, ugly shoe box size units are sooooo 70s. The newer, more innovative systems now make that choice much easier because both a whole home audio and an intercom are within the same touchpad unit and take up the size of two light switches. We confess personal addictions to both. We like to listen to music throughout the home (with selection and controloptions!) and to be able to call another room in the house without yelling.

Last but not least we'd suggest you consider your security needs. Because wireless systems are much more reliable than models from just five years ago and are virtually trouble free, it is not as important as it once was to make provisions for hardwiring. However, we still recommend that homeowners do rough in a hardwired security system, if at all possible. If nothing else, at least provide several conduit pathways from the basement to the attic for future use. Who knows where technology will take us over the next 10 years? We may be able to view the day's events on the refrigerator door, surf the net on the TV or watch our kids come home from school remotely from work. Now wait a second! We are already there, but most of us didn't future proof our home to make even today's technologies possible.

As a reader of R&A Magazine, you’re eligible to one year of free monitoring from 3T Security (a $179 value). Call today for details at 717.664.0090.

You aren't alone. Many homeowners realize that their bathroom isn't functional but don't know where to begin when trying to make it better.

Your remodeler will tell you this, too, but the first thing you should do with any remodeling project (not just your bathroom) is to take an inventory of what you'd like to change about the room. Think about the times of day when you use your bathroom (how many people are trying to get ready in the morning and at what times) and what changes can be made to make it functional for you. This process will also help you solidify what you are truly looking for from your bathroom remodel.

Once you've made an inventory of changes, my next suggestion is to research what products are on the market. There are literally hundreds of vessels, tubs, showers, and faucets to choose from, so your best bet is to visit a showroom.

Showrooms are also an excellent resource for learning about the new products. When consumers visit our showroom, there are two design specialists on hand to help them through the often overwhelming process of picking out the components of their new bathroom.

Let's say you know you want a soaking tub, but there are dozens of soaking tubs on the market from which to choose. By visiting a showroom and speaking to a design specialist, you can find out the differences between each manufacturer and discover what amenities are available.

For example, one tub on the market is the new Release Bathtub Series by Pearl. The Release tubs are ergonomically shaped to offer you two comfortable sitting positions—designed for relaxing at one end and reading at the other. This series also offers a wide array of therapies including hydrotherapy with True Whirlpool®, air therapy with Aerofeel®, thermotherapy with ThermaZone ™, Chromatherapy (colored lights) and the new aromatherapy with AromaScents™ to lavish you with total relaxation. A skilled design specialist can walk you through this selection process to ensure you pick the tub that's right for you.

Or perhaps you want to remodel your bathroom to accommodate your parent's needs when they come to town for a visit. Handicapped accessibility is more than grab-bars, although those are certainly important. But did you ever consider replacing your current shower unit with one that doesn't have a lip to step over? There are several great showers on the market today that will match the existing floor height of your bathroom. Furthermore, today's ADA bathrooms do not have to feel sterile like a hospital. There are plenty of choices to make your bathroom attractive, yet still ADA accessible. Again, a skilled design specialist can help you through these choices.

Perhaps the biggest benefit to visiting a showroom is this: Many showrooms are laid out into vignettes, and these "mini-rooms" help you visualize what the bathroom will look like when completed. The vignettes allow you to see and touch all of the components that go into making your bathroom complete.

Making your selections from a catalogue is okay, but when you visit a showroom (rather than making your selections online), you can actually see and touch the various finishes first hand. This is an important step in selecting the right colors, textures and styles for you, and ultimately you will create a bathroom that you'll be happy with for years and years.

YC Design Center is a division of YC Company. The YC Design Center in Lancaster offers a full array of bath and kitchen products and presents contractors and homeowners the opportunity to consult design specialists in developing the baths and kitchens of their dreams. Creating your dream bath is a collaborative effort between you and your designer. Visit or contact us at (717) 569-8616 and together, we can begin your innovative and unique process.

This is one of the age-old questions when it comes to any kind of home renovations. And with a kitchen or bath remodel, the answer is perhaps even more important, because these are two areas of your home that provide the greatest return on your investment.

Home is… your castle, your sanctuary, your shelter from the storm. In addition,
your home is most likely the largest single investment you’ll make in your lifetime, so when making a change or addition, you want to be sure it's done right!

You can get the most out of your time and money by hiring a reputable contractor and having them supply all the materials for the job. I remember an adage that I heard many years ago, which still rings true today: “The bitterness of poor quality will remain long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.” There's a certain comfort and satisfaction that comes from knowing your renovation has been done professionally and with the highest quality products available.

The best recommendation we can offer is that you start with a professional plumbing contractor. They can help with layout and design, while providing safe, practical and legal applications of the plumbing system. You can rest assured that a professional plumber will use the most dependable products available, because they warrant what they install. They do it right the first time and contrary to some advertising, it's more than a one-day, bandaid job. Good things take time!

Kitchens and bathrooms should fit your lifestyle. A visit to a local showroom, such as HAJOCA, will be time well-spent, as you will get the benefit of dealing with knowledgeable, highly-skilled consultants who are offering the best, state-of-the-art products available in today's industry, personally tailored to suit your needs or desires. And that is worth making note of, because in a world where consumers are lured into buying goods sight-unseen over the Internet, or at a “You-get-what-you-pay-for” big-box retailer, the old-fashioned, hands-on assistance of a qualified sales person provides the comfort of helping you know what it is you’re buying. And there is definitely a difference in the quality you buy through the experts!

This is a very simple, yet tried-and-true process for Kitchen and Bath remodeling. By visiting our showroom and then hiring a professional contractor to handle your project, start to finish, you will absolutely save yourself time, money, and even aggravation in the long run! The oldest rule of buying will always apply- You Get What You Pay For! Make your remodeling investment a sound one! To find out more, contact us at 717-299-3611

Today, many of us are concerned with energy efficiency —from transportation
to appliances and everything in between. As a society, we are more dedicated to doing our part to reduce our “carbon footprint,” but we are also motivated by our wallets. In these tight economic times, it is imperative that we watch not only our spending habits but also how we can conserve.

A home energy audit is the first step a homeowner can take to assess how much energy your home consumes. It evaluates what actions you can take to make your home more energy efficient. Analysts take a whole-house approach, looking at insulation, air infiltration, heating and cooling systems, lighting and appliances. When completed, the analyst should provide you with a detailed list of recommendations that are prioritized by energy savings.

Haller Enterprises is one of a select few companies certified by PPL Utilities to conduct energy assessments. By choosing Haller to complete your energy assessment, you can receive up to a $250 rebate from PPL Utilities. This offer is available to the first 5,000 PPL Utilities customers who act.

Remember, audits alone don't conserve energy. You must implement the recommended improvements to see the savings. To learn more about our home energy audit program, call us at 717.625.1500.

WRONG! I wish I had a dollar for everyone who has asked me this question in the last few weeks. Unfortunately, there has been a huge misunderstanding and misinformation about this issue, so let me try and set the record straight to help you make an informed decision.

Unlike previously, NOT all Energy Star labeled windows and doors qualify. In order to qualify for the new and improved tax credit, replacement windows and doors must have certified U–factors equivalent to or lower than 0.30 and a solar heat gain coefficient of 0.30 as well.

This is important information for homeowners because at this point nearly 70% of vinyl replacement windows will NOT meet the tax credit criteria.

For too long the market place has been flooded with substandard windows. These new tax credit requirements will force manufacturers to retool and manufacture better quality, more energy-efficient products.

To meet these new criteria, some companies are adding an additional pane of glass or using double Low-E glass which may cause weight and aesthetic issues. If this is the route you are taking you really need to make sure you check out the warranty because more weight from the triple glass can cause balance and other problems and double Low-E gives a significant coloring on the glass.

Do your home work. The lower the U-factor the greater the dividends you will receive on energy savings. These typically are products at the highest energy efficiency level such as the Pennsylvania-made Starmark cellular composite frame windows which are the #1 nationally-rated energy-efficient window in America as per Energy Star performance ratings. Starmark offers a 40% guaranteed fuel savings pledge and boasts a certified U-factor of 0.24 in double-pane glass and a 0.15 in its triple-pane version.

For your own peace of mind and to be absolutely sure that your purchase will qualify for the new tax credit—GET IT IN WRITING! Do not take anyone's word for it. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) issues manufacturers with the ratings of their windows— ask to see the ratings.

For additional information on energy efficiency tax credits go to www.energystar. gov or visit me at Aspen Home Improvements. By phone I can be reached at 569-3700

That's an emphatic YES! You’ll pay a few dollars more for a CFL (compact fluorescent lamp), and it will save you significant dollars over its long life. Consider these numbers:
• Compared to a traditional incandescent bulb, a CFlof the same wattage uses about 77% less electricity. A 23-watt CFL is the equivalent of a 100-watt incandescent bulb. That means that you’ll be using 77% less electricity to get the same amount of light. And if you like things bright, you can use a higher watt bulb and still save significantly on electricity. For example, a 150 watt CFL will use only about 35-40 watts of electricity.

• Out of every $100 you spend on lighting costs, you spend $88 for electricity. CFLs reduce that $88 by about 75%, or $66, leaving a lot of green in your wallet. You’ll also enjoy savings because you’ll have to replace CFLs far less frequently than you replace standard incandescents. A typical incandescent bulb will burn for about 750 hours, while a CFL will last between 6000 and 12000 hours.

You can think of CFLs’ lifespan this way. If you burn every bulb in your home for an average of 5 hours a day, and if you'd replace every incandescent bulb with a CFL rated at 10000 hours, you wouldn't have to change another light for 2000 days, which would take you to 2014. That would certainly avoid a lot of the curse words that flow when you hit the switch and the bulb blows. If you'd like to calculate the savings that you can achieve with CFLs, visit this web site: www.onebillionbulbs.com

In addition to saving you money, CFLs will significantly reduce the amount of greenhouse gases put into the air because most electricity comes from coal-fired plants.

Despite the proven savings and the environmental benefits, many consumers are not completely sold on the CFL technology. Here are some of the questions we hear regularly.

Okay, I like the idea of using CFLs, but do they give off enough light? My son's football coach told me that he bought some of those bulbs, and they weren't even bright enough for him to read his playbook. Three years ago, that might have been true, but the quality of CFLs has improved tremendously in recent years. In fact, many CFLs produce more lumens (the measuring unit for the light given off by a bulb) than the incandescents that they’re replacing. So you’ll get plenty of light from your CFLs.

Can I get CFLs for every type of lamp and lighting outlet? Yes. You can get CFLs for every type of lighting that involves a socket. You can even get CFLs that work in 3-way lamps and with dimmer switches. The best way to see the full selection of CFLs is to shop at an electrical distributor like Yale. Electrical distributors carry a much wider range of bulbs of all types than most big box stores do.

Are all CFLs equal? Do you recommend any particular manufacturer? No and Yes. All CFLs are not equal. You can buy cheap ones, and you’ll probably be disappointed if you do. We recommend that you stick with the name brands, and we recommend GE, which we’ve found to be a proven performer in CFLs.

I have a light that I wear for visibility when irun, and it's something called an LED. Somebody told me that LEDs are the next big thing in home lighting. Is that true? Maybe. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) have been around for about 20 years for safety applications. When they fl ash in the dark, you can see them from a long way off. And yes, they’re now moving into lighting applications. Right now, they’re primarily in commercial and industrial uses, and limited options for LEDs are available for residential applications.

I’ve heard that CFLs contain mercury, so you better not break one. Is that true? CFLs do contain a tiny bit of mercury, but you’ll probably get more in a piece of fish than in a bulb. If you do break a CFL, sweep it up. If you break it on a carpet, clean it with a damp paper towel. Don't vacuum it.

So what's your overall outlook on going green with light bulbs? CFLs will help you keep some green in your wallet, and they’ll help to keep the environment cleaner. They’re a big improvement on standard incandescents.

In today's economy, many of us are choosing to remain in our home in lieu of purchasing or building a new one. There are many beautiful existing homes in our area. It's what you do with these homes that can make it a classic or just another average house.

Custom millwork added to a home can set it off and increase the value and often gives a value that will offer more than a dollar for dollar return on your investment. If you live in a hundred year old home, you can increase the value by updating the millwork, casing, base, and crown moulding, and do so at reasonable cost.

Two piece crown moulding or casings can frame a room rather than just close gaps between the doors, windows and drywall. By adding raised panel wainscoting you can add warmth to the home bringing it your own personal touch. These are projects that can be done on a room by room basis. By doing this you aren't disrupting the entire home. All this is done while increasing the value of the home. By using 6” baseboards with a O.G. cap, or 3-1/2” beaded casing around doors and windows, you add value while creating a focal point in the room.

You may have noticed intricate mouldings in the older homes. When those homes were built, “stock” mouldings were not in existence. Each building supply company usually had their own profiles. Mass produced trim didn't come into existence until the mid 1900's. You will find that replicating these mouldings will not break the bank. By matching older trim of the home you can often enhance the beauty of the room for a few hundred dollars, while you increase the value of the home by thousands.

Custom architectural millwork shops can match profiles that exist in older homes, but you should ask if they have knives to cut trim that may be a close match. This will save the cost of grinding new knives. Ask to see the profiles for which they have knives. Also ask if they have suggestions that may save some cost.

You can also request any type of wood species. If you have a passion for mahogany or cherry, you can have the moulding produced in that species. If you are going to paint your trim, usually this moulding will be cut from poplar. Poplar is an excellent species to paint. With its tight grain and density, it holds paint very well.

Enjoy your home. Beautify your home. You can do it economically, with custom millwork. Talk to your remodeler or millwork shop.

Stamped concrete is very durable. Concrete has been around for a long time because of its durability & strength. The next time you are on a main highway take note that it is probably made of concrete. In the south a lot of driveways are made of concrete since it is cooler and more durable than blacktop.

Stamped concrete has come a long way in duplicating the look of many hardscapes for considerable less cost than for example real flagstone or brick. There are many border and Patina staining options to give your patio your own personal fl air or character.

Stamped concrete is typically installed in about half the time of a deck or hardscapes so you can enjoy your patio investment sooner rather than later. As for maintenance there is the reseal every 2-3 years that needs done to protect and retain the original beauty. The sealer has other benefits as well. It keeps moss from growing on your patio, which can be an issue with real hardscapes, causing it to become slippery, because a sealer is not applied periodically. Plus the mortar in some hardscapes will deteriorate over time and pieces of stone or slate become loose and create a tripping hazard.

With regards to stamped concrete installation and product quality, we recommend a 4000 psiconcrete mix, a rebar mat, fibermesh, and 2 coats of sealer. Make sure there is a 4-6 inch compacted clean stone base put down prior to installing concrete. A solid base is as important to your patio as footers are to your house foundation. Also insist that your concrete contractor use an anti skid in both coats of sealer otherwise the concrete will be a slipping hazard when wet.

Another part of quality is integral color. We feel if the color is added to the concrete in the truck, instead of broadcasting it on the surface, it is a better job. Because if the concrete is ever chipped, it will expose white concrete. If the color is throughout you can apply sealer to the chip and it will blend in. Remember a quality job is not always the cheapest price. Quality does cost
a little more up front and only takes a little more time & care to produce a quality job. Poor workmanship with concrete can typically only be corrected by removal and starting over. Research your concrete contractor well before choosing one.

As with all types of businesses, there are a lot of “here today and gone tomorrow” concrete installers. Building a business with quality and relationships as the 1st priority will mean a happy customer and a growing company; this is what we strive for at Stampcrete of Lancaster.

Electric fireplaces have been coming into play more than ever since most conventional heating costs are up. Electric fireplaces are an excellent way to heat the room you are in the most, such as a family room. They are safe, efficient, and quite nice to look at. There is no venting or piping involved, so you can simply plug them into your standard 110 outlet. You can also enjoy the fl ames without heat—giving you four season usage. One of the largest manufacturers of electric fireplaces is Dimplex North America.
Heating Capability
Just about all the electric fireplaces offered by Dimplex produce over 5000 btu's of
heat. This is enough heat to supplement a room up to 400 square feet (20x20’). The heating capability will vary depending on the temperature outside. The main advantage of electric fireplaces would be zoned heating. You can heat the room you are enjoying without raising your main heating source. This will help lower your overall heating costs over the coldest months of the year. But yet many folks enjoy their electric fireplaces when it is cool outside and they want just a bit of heat in the room to take the chill out of the air. All of the electric fireplaces are run on an electric based heating element with a very quiet and efficient blower. They all have thermostats and some even have a built in air purifier, which can clean the air of an average room four times an hour. As long as your room has an outlet, you can enjoy an electric fireplace.
Applications of Electric Fireplaces
The most popular application are Mantle fireplaces. These vary in sizes, but are easy to install and remove if needed. Dimplex makes small and large mantles and even has a wide variety of entertainment center models for which a large TV can be placed on the top of the cabinet. The second most popular application is the stove program. With the Dimplex company, you can choose from small stoves up to large styles. One of the larger models even has the air purifier, which can not only heat the room but clean the air also. The last application is the insert program. If you already have an existing fireplace you can simply put an insert, which is basically a box, into your fireplace. These vary in size from small to large to fit just about any existing fireplace. Another insert application is to have a contractor build the mantle you want or install the insert flush into a wall for a more contemporary look. No matter what application you choose, you are adding warmth and quite possibly, more equity into your property due to the fact most homeowners love fireplaces.
Safety and Cost
All of the Dimplex electric fireplaces are UL listed for safety and come with the best warranties in the business. There is nothing burning, so the glass or top of the fireplaces never gets hot. You do not have any carbon monoxide or dust issues either. In fact, most of the Dimplex electric fireplaces actually improve your air quality with the new Purifier air treatment option. According to Dimplex, the average cost to run an electric fireplace is 8 cents an hour based on 50% cycling of heat—making electric fireplaces one of the least expensive options for supplemental heat. The pricing of the electric fireplaces will vary from a few hundred dollars for a stove style to around two thousand for the most deluxe mantle fireplaces. Electric fireplaces are a great option for your home. At Classic Furniture in Ephrata we are proud to have the largest Dimplex electric fireplace gallery in PA and invite you to visit our store. To learn more about electric fireplaces visit our web site at www.classicfurniturepa.com or call 888-721-3139.

Shutters are and will always be a mainstay in popular window coverings. They bring elegance and class to any room and any décor. Shutters are energy efficient and also add value to your home. So here are some popular questions about shutters that can help you decide if shutters are the right choice for your home.

What are shutters made of? There are 3 types of shutters—wood, faux wood, and plastic. The wood shutters are usually made from American basswood which is a very dry wood. The faux wood is made from medium density fiberboard (MDF) and then is coated with a plastic wrap. The plastic is usually a hollow core plastic material.
What are some of the options that come with shutters? Shutters do have a wide range of options. Louver size can range from 1 ¼” to 4 ½ ”, mounting options with different trims, hidden tilt bar, and stains and colors all give a personal touch to the shutter. And yes…they do come with remote control.
I have tilt-in windows—can I still have shutters? Yes. There are a couple of options that allow the tilt in window feature to work. The easiest one is to do an outside mount. This would mean that the shutter would be mounted with our trim and would not impede the movement of the window tilting in. The other option is to do a direct mount. This would be a good option if you want to keep your trim. We apply the mounting hardware directly to your sill and therefore enable the shutter to open completely and allows the window to tilt down. It is always recommended that one of our professional design consultants come to your home to look at the installation to make sure there are no other issues relating to installation that need to be taken into consideration.

What kind of stains and paints are available? There are many types of stains that come from the manufacturer. If you have wood floors or trim that you would like to match, usually the stains from the manufacturer can do the trick. If you have a hard to match color we can custom stain the shutter with a swatch from your stain. Paints are the same way. It is almost impossible not to find something that matches with your décor.

If I want to keep the bottom portion of my shutter closed and open the top, what are my options? There are two options for this particular situation. One is called double hung. This means that a panel is split into two panels one top and one bottom. They are then hung individually and act as an independent panel. So if you want to keep the bottom closed for privacy you can open the top for light. The other option is to have a divider rail in the middle of the panel. This allows the louvers on the top of the panel to operate independently of the louvers on the bottom. This is the most common application and the most cost effective. Double hung also can have some light gap due to the window being out of square.

Shutters are one of the most beautiful window coverings on the market today. They enhance every room and raise the value of your home. One thing to remember with shutters is that shutters are always made square and windows rarely are in square. So manage your expectations if you have inside mount shutters. Sometimes there may be light gaps along the side of the panel that are different from the top to bottom. That is normal for this type of application. Outside mounted shutters are easier to play with the square of the window, therefore, eliminating any light gap that isn't consistent. In the central PA area inside mount shutters are very popular with the fact that we usually have good depth to our sills.

Remember back when you were house shopping and everyone preached LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION? Well, the motto for window shopping should be WARRANTY, WARRANTY, WARRANTY. And as many homeowners have experienced, warranties are not created equal. Of the many things that need to be considered when reviewing warranties, probably the most important is getting what's covered in writing. If you don't see it in writing, it most likely is NOT covered—despite what you hear from the salesman.

I always thought that a more truthful way for a window company to address the warranty is to provide a “What's NOT Covered Warranty”. For discriminating window shoppers, such disclosure would eliminate nearly 80% of the window companies from consideration.

Lifetime warranties or Limited Lifetime warranties usually only cover certain things. It's amazing how many shoppers rely on the salesperson's word rather than the specific language of the warranty. For many homeowners, the truth only comes out when it's too late. Unfortunately, too many honest and reliable window companies get tarred with the same brush when “Joe Shmow Company” misguides consumers.

Lifetime warranties should always state what's covered. If it doesn't distinctly say “Cracking or Warping” it's not covered. While it's nice to hear a salesperson tell you that their windows won't crack or warp, if it's a true statement, why not put it in the warranty?

Look also for labor in the warranty. Manufacturers are in no way responsible for care and installation of the product. Today many service issues are not the fault or failure of the window but are directly related to how the product was installed. Good warranties today will also offer some sort of workmanship- related coverage—in writing! Many contractors today will offer some kind of craftsmanship coverage but do not commit to it in writing. The benefit is clearly for the contractor. This gives the contractor the option to pick and choose which services he wants to address and which ones he wants to stay away from, typically the more expensive ones!

If a contractor truly has quality craftsmen and offers to his customers the very best workmanship, why wouldn't he offer a Lifetime Warranty on his work? I hear all sorts of reasons, “If anything is going to go wrong it's within the first year”; hence a 1-year warranty on labor. Some even stretch it to 5 years. If it's truly quality workmanship, why not cover their work for life?

Look for a warranty you can easily read. It shouldn't take you forever to read it and there should be no small print. At Aspen Home Improvement, our warranty is a one-page document that can be read in a minute or less. It clearly covers everything. Ask the representative of the company you are interviewing to let you have a look at their warranty. Do not purchase the product if you can't read it, understand it, and agree to it all. Take some time to go through this very important step. If need be, ask for a copy of the warranty and take it with you to read at your leisure. Don't be hassled or pushed into signing a contract if you are not completely comfortable with it AND the warranty.

Should you have any window warranty questions, please do not hesitate to call us. Because manufacturers are always looking for competent companies to carry their windows, we have copies on file of most warranties. However, at Aspen Home Improvement very few manufacturers warranties meet our standards and, thus, we don't carry their products. If you callour office we will be happy to come out and go over any company's warranty with you.

Whether you are purchasing a home or refinancing an existing mortgage, including refinancing to finance home improvements, shopping for a mortgage in today's market can be an interesting experience. The mortgage industry has gone through many changes with regards to available programs and qualification standards. With the end of the Low FICO, High LTV loans, borrowers now have to qualify the old fashion way--they need to show and prove their income and have a better FICO score. (FICO is the acronym for Fair Isaac Corporation, a publicly-traded corporation that created the best-known and most widely used credit score model in the United States. The FICO score is calculated statistically, with information from a consumer's credit files.)

The good news is, there are still 100% financing programs available for those who qualify, and there is an abundant appetite to lend money--just with more realistic standards. Having a better understanding of what lenders are looking for, and what effects your FICO score could literally save you $1000's of dollars on your mortgage during the life of the loan. Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re going to buy or refinance any time soon. These best practices not only affect your FICO score, but also

How is my FICO score calculated?
There are five main areas that make up a person's score, and each area has an associated weight to it.
1. Payment History: 35% weight. (payment behavior)
2. Outstanding Debt: 30% weight. (amount owed on accounts)
3. Length of Credit History: 15% weight (length of time established)
4. New Credit: 10% weight (number of new accounts recently opened)
5. Type of Credit: 10% weight (type of new accounts and how many)

Credit Inquiry Myth: Do multiple credit inquiries hurt my credit score? No, Fair Isaac's risk scoring software takes the appropriate steps to make sure a score is not lowered because of multiple inquires such as when you are shopping for a car or mortgage.

Quoting Interest Rates Today: Why is it so hard to get a simple quote over the phone? Risk has always been priced into the interest rate over the years. But now it has been micro managed down to specific key components of the loan. Lenders basically need a mini profile of the transaction and borrower before they can accurately quote a rate. Here are the key areas or questions we need to ask to quote a lockable mortgage rate:
• FICO Score: the higher the score, the better the rate.
• Loan To Value: (how much down or equitable position)
• Mortgage Program: alternative programs are priced differently
• Property Type?: condo's, investment properties, second homes, etc.
• Property Locations? soft markets effect terms now.

Without these factors specifically defined, a lender can only quote you a range of rates.

Qualifications: What are lenders looking for today when I apply for a loan? Basically, lenders are looking at five general areas of a borrower's profile.

1. FICO Score:
720 – 800 (excellent credit)
680 – 719 (good credit)
620 – 679 (average credit)
580 – 619 (challenging credit)
2. Job Stability: Basically looking for 2 years in same line of work.
3. Cash to Close: Is there a saving pattern or are reserves available.
4. Appraisal: Will the subject property be suitable collateral.
5. Debt-to-Income Ratio: Is the borrower buying within their means.

Our Countrywide Underwriters will look at every scenario on its own merit and make every effort to find a way to help the borrower if the transaction still makes sense.
Shopping Smarter, not harder! Staying well informed, managing your credit and buying within your means will keep your long-term goals in check and much easier to achieve. Asking for written estimates of the terms up front will allow you to easily compare viable options prior to making your final decision.

At Countrywide, we originate your loan, process it, approve it and close it all here at our local Lancaster Branch. This type of service delivers much faster decisions and results for our clients. For a free pre approval or consultation, please contact me at 717.581.2202 or Guy Fry for assistance.

They can replace their patio door. This is usually one area of the home that has one of the highest traffic uses and can also be one of the homes biggest energy losers depending on the type of door they have.

After years of use these doors have a tendency to warp, stick, and deteriorate due to water damage or everyday use. And let's not forget the daily excessive heat gain or loss caused by early insulating glass panels. If your patio door falls into this category, replacing it is a sure and simple way to improve your home.

The latest designs deliver both style and performance especially when it comes to energy efficiency. Choosing the right one will not only save you money in heating and cooling bills, but also enhance the architecture of your room, let in natural light, and open the space to any exterior views. If your current door happens to be unusual in size, that shouldn't be a problem either since most manufacturers have custom capabilities now as well.

First Step
With such a wide range of options out there how does one go about picking “the right one”? Start by choosing a manufacturer with a brand name you can trust; one that offers time-tested, quality products and lasting warranty. Since patio doors are used often and subjected to inclement weather conditions, they experience a lot more wear and tear compared to other doors in the house. Before buying, make sure the manufacturer includes a good warranty and service network in case it's ever needed.

What To Look For
• The type of glass used in a patio door can make an enormous difference in your energy bill. For example: installing patio doors with low-e glass, a transparent heat-reflective metal coating on glass, can reduce energy loss by 30 to 50 percent. Low-e glass also blocks UV rays that can fade fabrics and damage furniture.
• Invest in products made from quality materials like clad wood panels and frames that provide strength and low-maintenance, and can resist the worst Mother Nature can throw at it.
• For an added level of security, choose a hinged patio door that offers a multiple-point lock system that locks the top, bottom and center of the door in one motion. Look for manufacturers that feature hardware with adjustable door hinges, easy locking mechanisms and a wide choice in hardware styles and finishes including fashion options such as satin nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, bright brass and polished chrome.
• Ideal for seasonal operation, retractable insect screens installed on the interior of hinged doors can, when not in use, neatly hide away into a small canister on the side of the door.

Creating A Look
Next, decide on a design. Regardless of whether you are updating your current doors or going with a completely different look, a patio door should reflect the style of the house while addressing a few practical concerns. It not only needs to be scaled to its surroundings, but should also be constructed of materials that are in keeping with the overall ambiance of the room.

Types of Doors
Gliding patio doors are a good choice when a projecting door would interfere with interior or exterior furnishings. Unlike the aluminum frames of yesteryear, today's gliding patio doors are available in a wide variety of contemporary styles in sleek thin frames, or for more traditional homes, space saving sliding French-styled doors in a classic wood design. When shopping for this type of door look for products with adjustable ball bearing rollers which help gliding patio doors feel like they’re floating, not sliding.

Hinged or “French-style” patio doors are derived from an original 18th century French design called the casement door. Manufacturers have combined traditional craftsmanship with modern energy efficient technology to come up with a timeless classic, designed to fit into a wide range of architectural styles.

These doors have framed panels, with at least one panel capable of swinging in or out like a conventional door. When the door is designed to swing out of the room, this style can save up to 28 square feet of interior space. As with all doors, this design should be positioned within the natural flow of traffic in and out of your home.

The Green Factor
With more and more homeowners concerned about energy, going green is no longer for old hippies and tree huggers. That's why before you buy, it's important to do a little homework regarding a company's environmental commitment. Look for products that have a Green Seal certification, proving that energy savings can be a beautiful thing.

If you’re in the market for a new patio door then go to www.andersenwindows. com where Andersen can help you choose a door that is right for your home. You can also contact me at Tad.Shepherd@andersencorp.com.

Granite's timeless beauty, lasting durability and ease of maintenance make it the perfect choice for indoor or outdoor applications. Adding granite countertops to your kitchen and outdoor living space will enhance the appearance of your home and improve its value. That being said, it makes sense to do some research and planning up front. Time spent now can ensure your ultimate satisfaction—both with the process and the final result.

A word about granite: Granite comes in an array of colors and styles, varying in appearance from granites with small crystal patterns that tend to be more uniform to granites with more “movement” or veining. Surfaces or finishes also vary. Traditionally granite was only available as a shiny, highly polished surface. It is now available in a number of beautiful alternate finishes such as: honed (a smooth, matte finish) and brushed or antiqued (a matte finish with texture). Choose an experienced granite fabricator displaying a large selection of granites, a knowledgeable sales staff, and an in-house design consultant who can guide you as to the best stone for your application and lifestyle.

Granite quality also varies. Make sure your fabricator offers only the finest quality granite. Look carefully at the slab you are considering. If you can see light swirl scratches remaining from the polishing process, it is of inferior quality. Also, the granite should have depth and richness of color. If it looks dull and flat, it is not a good quality slab.

Other things to consider before you move forward: Make sure that you will be able to view the actual slab used on your job. This is critical, especially if you’ve made your granite selection based on a small sample and have never seen a whole slab of your chosen material. Granite colors, shading, veining and crystallization vary from lot to lot and in some cases even from one slab to the next within the same lot. A reputable fabricator will not only encourage you to see and approve the slab(s) that will be used on your job, but they will also welcome your participation as they determine how your templates will lay out on the slab. They will also discuss in advance where seams will be placed. If the fabricator tells you there will be seams every few feet, he is using remnants rather than full slabs. Make sure you see previous work that the fabricator has done. Seams should be tight and veining should match up. If the fabricator is good, seam visibility should be minimal.

Granite countertops are an investment that will last a lifetime. You should be comfortable and confident throughout the whole project and proud of the end result. If you are considering updating your countertops, whether inside or outside, we invite you to call or visit our well-appointed showroom. See our web site at www.bantatile.com for more information, hours and directions.

Buying a window isn't typically a one size- fits-all kind of process. No single solution is always right for every home or every climate. But you can count on Pella for the solution that's right for you. Few things enhance your home more than windows and doors. At Pella, we take care to use the right materials for each product to ensure they deliver outstanding performance year after year.

Here are some key components to consider when purchasing new or replacement windows.

Quality Materials
Wood. Pella windows and patio doors offer the warmth and beauty of wood interiors. They are available in pine and can be painted or stained to match any decor. Mahogany, Douglas Fir or Alder interiors are also available. The exterior of Pella wood windows are protected by Pella's low-maintenance EnduraClad®, or EnduraClad® Plus, aluminum cladding system that doesn't need painting. Optional wood exterior is also available.

Fiberglass composite. Pella® Impervia ® products are incredibly energy efficient and low maintenance. Made of a patented fiberglass composite called Duracast®, it's the strongest, most durable material available in windows and patio doors.

Premium vinyl. Pella premium vinyl windows and patio doors offer a quality low-maintenance product with the overall value and energy efficiency you expect from Pella.

Quality Construction
State-of-the-art testing laboratory. For more than 80 years Pella has set the standard for quality. In our state of- the-art product-testing facilities, we continually test the components of Pella windows and patio doors under the harshest conditions—the burning rays of the sun, salt air, acid rain, excessive humidity, extreme hot and cold temperatures, high wind and driving rain. Pella tests for air and water infiltration and structural strength during the manufacturing process. These stringent measures ensure our windows and patio doors will perform the way we say they will. Pella products are also backed with one of the best warranties in the business.

Energy performance. ENERGY STAR® was created to help consumers easily identify products, homes, and buildings that save energy and money, and help protect the environment. As the government-backed, trusted symbol for energy efficiency, the ENERGY STAR® label identifies highly efficient products and designates superior energy performance in homes and buildings. As ENERGY STAR® Partner of the year for 2 years in a row, we provide the data used by ENERGY STAR® to rate all of our windows and doors including the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) rating and U-values. The SHGC rating will tell you how effective the product is at blocking the heat caused by the sun (the lower the number, the less heat it allows in). U-values indicate how well the product keeps heat inside a home (the lower the number, the better it insulates). Pella's products offer some of the lowest U-values in the industry. Most Pella® products with Low-E insulating glass meet or exceed ENERGY STAR® guidelines in all 50 of the United States. In fact, we have some products that have U-values that significantly exceed U.S. ENERGY STAR® guidelines.

Glass options. Different climates require different window technologies for best performance. We offer options ranging from standard clear insulating glass to energy-saving, Low-E insulating glass. Double- or triple-pane glass options with between-the-glass blinds or fabric shades can further increase energy savings and can even reduce outside noise — like lawn mowers and traffic. Pella Designer Series windows and patio doors with triple-pane glass are #1 for noise reduction and energy efficiency when compared to top national brands with similar glazing.

When most people think of faux finishes, sponging and rag rolling come to mind. Today, these finishes have fallen out of favor in light of the trend toward upscale finishes, where layers of subtle texture and color create depth and beauty on formerly dull, “vanilla” walls.

Professional faux finishes are made up of any number of decorative finishes that may include glazes, textures, Venetian plaster, patina, metallic, marbling, Tuscan, crackle effects, and more. These finishes are applied to walls, ceilings, woodwork, and floors in multiple layers, using many different application techniques. It is these layers, as with a pearl, that help create the depth, color, and beauty that we find attractive in many faux finishes. Most of the professional materials used today are water-based, safe, and virtually odorless.

Whether you are looking for a bold statement or a classic finish, a well thought-out faux finish is timeless. Most customers choose faux finishing because they want to invest in their home and they value the benefits over wallpaper and paint. They want a high end designer-look without having to contend with unsightly seams. They want a wall finish that coordinates perfectly with their interior furnishings and adds value to their home; a custom made finish that makes their home feel uniquely theirs. Some customers like the fact that many finishes hide minor wall imperfections.

The right faux finish can do more than make a room look beautiful, it can also create a dramatic, sophisticated, or relaxing living space. Certain finishes can make a room feel larger or make a two-story foyer feel warm and inviting. With the right textures, colors and materials, a faux finish can even have the effect of bringing the outdoors indoor!

Professional faux finishers often work with interior designers and will listen carefully to achieve your vision for the room you are redecorating. Based upon your desires, colors, and budget, a faux finisher will show you their portfolio of finishes and may recommend specific ones. Custom-made samples can be created to achieve the exact look and style you desire. Two items should be considered prior to beginning work in your home. First, always approve a sample board that represents the exact finish and coloration you have chosen. Second, sign a detailed contract stating the area to be done, the agreed upon finish and price, and when the job is scheduled to start and end.

Your walls are an important part of your home. They encompass a large area in each room. They surround your fireplace, cabinets, windows, doorways, furniture, wall hangings, and light fixtures. Your walls accent your room like a frame and matting surrounds a picture. Your newly faux finished room will bring added value and create an inviting living space to enjoy for many years.

To learn more, contact artist & faux finisher Jeff Shultz at 717-799-1533. To see completed rooms, read client testimonials and learn “Ten Tips on Hiring a Faux Finisher,” go online to www. distinctivewalls.com.

Yes, there is a hybrid system for your home or business. It involves a combination of an electric heat pump and an alternate heat source like gas or oil. Most homes built in the last 20 years have a central heating and cooling system that operates on gas or oil for heat and electric for air conditioning.

An air conditioner absorbs heat from the air in your home and moves it to the outdoors through a refrigeration cycle. A heat pump can reverse the process and absorb heat from outside and bring it inside. It's hard to imagine winter air heating your home, but the refrigerant is very cold as a gas and can absorb heat from air well into the teens.

Heat pumps have gotten a bad reputation in the past as being uncomfortable and inefficient. That is no longer the case. For example, at my house I have a gas/electric hybrid system. The heat pump heats the house until the outdoor air temperature reaches about 28 degrees. When the temperature outside goes below 28 degrees my thermostat automatically switches over to gas heating without me doing anything.

When I adjusted the change over temperature to a higher set point (36 degrees) my wife saw a spike in the gas bill and asked why. I explained the change and she didn't even know we had a heat pump. Our first home had an old inefficient heat pump which was not a good experience, so when she was happy with a heat pump instead of gas that is proof of comfort. A heat pump can be added to an existing oil or gas hot air furnace in place of the air conditioner very reasonably. The system will need a new thermostat for dual fuel change over and will include an outdoor sensor which gives you the outside temperature at all times.

A completely new system is more expensive but hard to beat for efficiency and comfort. Carrier offers the Infinity system with a two stage heat pump and a modulating variable speed gas furnace coupled with an Infinity Control (thermostat) that operates the equipment in response to indoor and outdoor conditions to maintain temperature within ½ degree.

If you want to know if a hybrid system is right for your home, call Ressler and Mateer, Inc. at 627-2627 and ask for Dave and I’ll give you suggestions on hybrid comfort and a free estimate.

Good old fashion ordinary table salt along with the new IntelliChlor Chlorine Generator is really all you need to maintain clear water both safely and effectively. Simply add salt to your pool water and let IntelliChlor work its magic. As the dissolved salt flows through the IntelliChlor generator cell it is converted to pure chlorine and is distributed throughout your pool. This process keeps your water fresh, clear, and safe. Unlike most conventional chlorine additives IntelliChlor continuously recycles the salt day after day.

In addition to sparkling, clear water IntelliChlor makes monitoring chlorine as simple as can be with its built-in control and display panel. Just push a button to choose one of the five sanitization levels and IntelliChlor tells you exactly how to set it for proper chlorine output. IntelliChlor also provides you the same sanitization performance as chlorine, without disadvantages like odor, stinging eyes, irritated skin, or bleached-out swimsuits.

IntelliChlor is not only simple, safe, and automatic, but a provider for perfect water and a worry-free environment. IntelliChlor can be used on pools up to 40,000 gallons with proper TDS. The cost of this stress-free device ranges roughly from $2,000 to $2,500 in cost. The payback is around 4 years. If an IntelliChlor Chlorine Generator interests you feel free to contact Integrity Pools and Arctic Spas at (717) 393-1600 or stop on by at 2106 Spring Valley Road Lancaster PA.

Choosing a quality security system is a very critical decision for you and your family. Here are the most common questions we get from our customers along with our response. What does a typical system cost and should I own the system or rent? For a variety of reasons, we recommend that you purchase the system. Costs range from $1,100- $1,400. What are the monthly monitoring fees and how long is the term of the service/monitoring contract? Our standard monitoring is one of the lowest in Lancaster County, starting at around $15/month. Each contract is for an initial term of 1-3 years and automatically renews for 1-year periods. Beware of long-term contracts.

How often does the system report in to the central station and why is that important? We program our panels to test every couple of days. This is a programming feature that allows the system to “check in,” testing the communications with a central station to verify that signals can be sent. Most people think that a security panel is always “connected” to the central station and that a loss of the phone line will prompt a dispatch or phone call to the site, but that is not true with a land based phone line. Daily tests can be performed at an additional cost.

What happens if the phone line is cut? What are my alternate choices? Is the communication two-way? If the phone line is cut, the panel has no means to communicate the signals it is trying to send to a central station to dispatch the fire or police assistance. As a security feature, we program our panels so that if cut while armed, the siren will go off. For added protection, we have systems that are totally wireless and do not need to have a phone line. This type of system that we use also allows you to communicate with your panel for remote arming and disarming of the system without a phone line. This is not possible with a more common cellular backup unit.

What is a lockout code and why is it used? A lockout code is a number that allows only the person authorized to service your system to gain access to the programming. This is a way that companies keep competitors from taking over “their” system. We believe that our customers deserve choices and will never lock you out of your system. If a company needs to protect their customers in this manner, it is probably not a wise decision to deal with them.

How much experience and/or training does a technician installing/servicing my system have? Are subcontractors used to install the system? AT 3T, all personnel have a minimum of 3 years experience with others having more than 10 years, with factory training, NAAA certification, AFAA training and an understanding of NFPA 72 standards. We provide more than just on the job training, we provide several hours of classroom training every 2 weeks. We understand that you may feel guarded about letting someone into your home, which is one reason we do not use subcontractors and each employee is in a company uniform with an identification badge and driving a company marked vehicle.

What is the term of the warranty and what does it cover? We warranty our work for 2 years. It covers all parts and labor during normal business hours. Does the central station that is monitoring your system have a backup location in case of a disaster or an evacuation at the primary site? Is it UL listed? Yes. The central station that we are involved with is able to transfer information and services in the event of a disaster without missing a beat. The central station is a UL listed central station.

Is each security device on an independent zone to reduce or eliminate the potential for false alarms? Is the system expandable? Yes, it only makes sense. If you were to have a group of windows on one zone and it set off a false alarm, you wouldn't know which individual window it was. How much have you saved when you are paying the false alarm fine, having to bypass that entire side of the building leaving it unprotected, and/or paying a service technician to locate that one window within an entire group? Yes, all of the systems we install are expandable. We do try to size your system to current needs and future demands.

To learn more, please give us a call at 717.664.0090.

I would like to address the second question first. Everyone is worried, and with some good reasons. The price of gas and oil is going up, much more than what we are used to causing everyone to panic. I have people coming in almost shaking from their last heating bill. Does that mean you should run right out and purchase a bio-fuelor alternative heat source? Not necessarily.

First lets talk about the propane and natural gas units. Most units are between 78 - 87% efficient. That means for every dollar you are spending in heating fuel, 78 to 87 cents is coming back into your home as heat. They can also be thermostatically controlled, which means you can set the unit for 70 degrees which will allow the unit to cycle on and off, maintaining that temperature. An additional blower allows you to push the heat into other rooms, or even installing flow thru registers in the ceiling above the unit and into the rooms above allowing the heat to flow upstairs. A more controlled heat, especially in your living area, will allow you to control your costs, and give you the heat where you need it. The other benefit to a natural gas or propane unit is the fact that you do not have to carry wood in and out, clean out ash, worry about keeping it running. There are storage issues and delivery issues with alternative fuel that can also cause a great deal of thinking and planning.

Does this mean I am anti-wood or pellet? NO! I think pellet is a great source of heat, and I use a pellet stove to heat both of my showrooms. However, this being said pellet is not for everyone, there is a great deal of management with pellet, you need to be mindful of the quality of pellet product you purchase. Make sure that it burns as clean as possible in your home. The lesser amount of pollutants you put in your air the better. Also, wood stoves are wonderful, and I love the smell. Nothing like the smell of burning wood on a cold day. Efficient wood burning stoves or fireplace inserts can add a wonderful addition to a home that needs extra heat. The newer wood burning units, can be dampered to run smoothly and burn up to 8 or more hours a day. One cord of wood can provide almost 22,000,000 BTU's!!! Wow! The BTU's (which stands for British Thermal Units) is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 lb. of water by 1 degree fahrenheit. Whew! To make it easier, its a great way to compare the amount of heat output you can expect from your fireplace or stove. I have a worksheet that is from a government web site, that I will be glad to send to anyone that emails me at bcarr@mbcfireplace. net. It sounds very complicated, but its not. The amount of heat you would like to get from any unit, should also be weighed with the cost of the fuel, and the time it takes to prepare the unit or keep it running.

It is very important to research the products and ask lots of questions before you make the purchase. This leads me to the first question, How do you pick the right product for your home? There are many things to keep in mind when purchasing a stove or fireplace. What are you really expecting from this product? Are you looking for a focal point to increase the design element of your home? Do you need something that will provide you with more warmth this winter? How busy is your lifestyle? Are there small children in the home? Is there concern with Asthma or other breathing problems? These are just some questions I always ask clients when they first meet with me to help choose their fireplace. Most people do not know exactly what they want, and that's ok. Its important to sift thru ideas and see what would work. Exploring all your ideas and possible designs, helps us to put you in the right hearth product for your home. There are so many options and styles now, luckily the hearth industry has stopped and listened, they make a fireplace or stove to fit almost everyone's budget or style.

I believe that researching, talking, and planning is going to be the best way to save this winter. Whatever product you choose to use, make sure it fits your lifestyle. Don't purchase something without thinking it through the next years. It should be a unit that you enjoy for the next 10-20 years. The best place to start is with a local hearth specialty retailer, one that is willing to work with you and guide you to the product that best fits your needs.

Good questions. Because you can't really see many of the ugly side effects associated with “contaminated” indoor air, it's hard to know when you need to have a test done. If you or your family members have allergies, get a test. If you take the “ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” approach to staying healthy, get a test. But there are other reasons to have your air tested as well.

The quality of your home's air is directly tied to health. It's natural for allergens, pollutants, dust and other particles to enter the air in our homes. And air circulation or heating/cooling systems can do a lot to filter harmful particles out of the air. But there are many factors that dictate taking extra steps toward purifying your home's air, beyond relying on the filtration systems included in your heating/cooling system.

Taking a close look at your personal or family's health is one way to determine whether or not you need an indoor air quality (IAQ) test. Common symptoms of contamination include: fatigue, headaches, nausea, scratchy throat, nasal irritation and some allergies. When these symptoms are ongoing, you may want to examine what's circulating through your home. And if you find your health deteriorating each winter, shortly after you winter proof your home and turn on your heating system, that may be another signal that it's time to analyze your air quality.

There's one other way to know you need your ducts cleaned and your air quality tested. Simply look up at your vents (if you have them). If they are dusty inside and out, it's probably time to take action. This dust is being blasted into your home – and your lungs – each time your home is being heated or cooled!

Improving your family's health is a major reason to ACT NOW and have an IAQ test done. But there are other benefits as well. Improving your IAQ can reduce utility bills by allowing your HVAC systems to work at higher efficiencies. And you’ll experience improved whole-house comfort. Rooms will feel more temper-ate and you’re more likely to resolve humidity issues.

As for the final part of your question: How do you ensure that you don't buy equipment you don't need? Here's what the Cocalico Plumbing and Heating team tells customers who call for this service:

1. Hire a contractor that uses unbiased, third parties to conduct its testing. Independent assessments help guarantee accurate results and trustworthy recommendations. Not a sales pitch for equipment you don't need from the contractor who will handle equipment sales, installation and service. At Cocalico, we use AirAdvice, a leading Indoor Air Quality testing company.

2. If your test results indicate a problem, ask your contractor if servicing existing equipment is a viable option vs. buying new equipment. Some HVAC contractors that specialize in IAQ offer service for existing systems in addition to new system sales.

3. Ask for customer testimonials. How many repeat customers does your contractor have? And how many happy buyers evangelize on their behalf?

Nine out of 10 homes have a problem with their indoor air quality. Chances are, you can make some improvements. If you’re ready to improve your family's health, cut utility bills and just feel more comfortable all year round, schedule an unbiased test today.

Coating a garage's concrete floor is a great way to protect it from road salts and other chemical attacks, improve the garage's overall appearance, ease surface cleaning and improve the home's sales appeal and price.

Whether the concrete is new or decades old, the longevity of any coating system begins with the preparation of the con-crete surface prior to the application of the actual chemicals. Acid etching, while a common preparation technique, lacks the ability to prepare tightly toweled surfaces and cannot remove any existing paints, sealers or contaminants, all of which decrease or negate a coating's ability to stick to the concrete. A mechanical preparation method, such as diamond grinding or abrasive blasting, ensure the entire surface provides the proper surface profile to allow maxi-mum adhesion by the coating.

Many paints are available for concrete floors, but they will not hold up against “hot tire” peel as paints lack the bond strength to resist the pull from the tires. A high quality coating system designed for a garage floor will provide superior bond strength to any floor paints. Most of these coating systems are made from epoxies, polyurethanes or blends of the two.

Better coating systems will feature multiple layers, where the first layer, or “base coat”, is designed for high adhesion to the concrete and may also be the binder for decorative chips or quartz. The last layer, or “top coat”, should be formulated for UV stability, abrasion resistance and high chemical resistance. This will keep the coating looking good year after year, ensuring that it does not discolor from exposure to direct sunlight, weather and chemicals.

While the coating should hold up well to normal vehicle traffic, frequent removal of stones and other debris will greatly extend the life of the coating system. After years of daily use, even the best coating system displays signs of wear, so ensure the coating system provides the ability to re-apply the top coat layer to later rejuvenate the floor.

The options available for coating a garage floor have never been broader. Since the garage floor sustains greater abuse than the other floors in the home, ensure any coating system selected pro-vides the characteristics we have de-scribed. We invite homeowners considering a garage floor coating to contact PremierGarage of Central Pennsylvania toll-free at 888.577.0452 or visit our web site at www.PremierGarage.com.

There are many trends and new materials in today's decking market. Homeowners are seeking to expand their living space less expensively with the outdoor room concept. They demand high-performance materials that are also low-maintenance and they want style and beauty. This is a tall order compared to decades past, when decks were made of cheap wood, often in an uninspired square or rectangle and presenting a splintery, maintenance nightmare. Now, decks must be design-integrated, withstand active lifestyles and maintain their attractive looks without much la-b or or cost for years to come.

These trends have been met with a series of new man-made materials that overcome the problems of wood. All-plastic decking emerged in the early 1990s, but had heat retention and aesthetic issues. Around the same time, composite materials came on the market to battle the problems of rotting and splintering wood. But there were a host of new problems as expectations grew. These materials were a step above wood, but not completely low-maintenance as promised. They were found to hold on to stains and mildew, due to wood fillers. They were three times heavier than wood, prone to expansion and contraction and often needed pre-drilling. And, the surfaces of some prod-cuts scratched from furniture, tools or pets. It was better, but not ideal. Even though contractors achieved higher margins, they had to weigh whether it was worth the callbacks.

 

The next generation of decking eliminates not only the problems of wood, but of composites and everything in between. A new stain-resistant decking made with cellular pvc contains no wood fillers, so it provides resistance to even the greasiest food stains, red wine, mold/mildew, fading and scratch-in. AZEK Deck leads this category, but also defines a new echelon, with the addition of flax fiber in a special process owned by AZEK Building Products. Along with stain-resistance, this gives the decking added strength and reduced expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. These features make installation easier, with no pre-drilling required, a 40% lighter weight product and two code reports (ICC and CCRR) to satisfy building permit requirements. Always ask any dealer or manufacturer if their product has a code report to avoid future hassles (to date, ours is the only decking of its kind to have these). The decking works well with typical deck fasteners and many of the quality hid-den fastener systems. It also recently met San Diego County fire requirements. With a natural wood-grain look, it is available in five colors, with matching railings, including white.

 

In other new developments, the reduced expansion and contraction of this technology has allowed a brand new line extension: a tongue and groove porch product that can be installed in a covered or uncovered area. AZEK Porch features 1X4 planks that are very easy to install and have all the stain and scratch resistance necessary for an extremely high traffic entryway. For more information about the next generation of decking, visit www.azek.com.

To answer this question you need to understand the chemistry of algae and how it grows in a typical swimming pool.

Algae are plants that grow underwater and like all plants, it requires light, oxy-gen and nutrients. If you deprive algae of one key nutrient, phosphates, it will not grow. Furthermore, if phosphates are kept low, algae will grow much more slowly.

With this in mind, you want to control the phosphates in your pool. How do you do this? There are two accepted ways of preventing algae growth. The first is to make sure there are enough chemicals in your pool to kill off algae growth, or at least as fast as it is growing. This is usually done with a sanitizer like chlorine, and some type of algaecide or algistat (the chemical that kills algae).

The second method combines a level of sanitizer plus chemical to inhibit algae growth. This chemical is called the “minimum inhibitory concentration” or MIC for short. The higher the phosphate level in your pool, the higher the chemical level or MIC must be. The benefit to you is this: If you remove the phosphates from pool water, algae growth is slowed down significantly and as a result, the amount of chlorine need-ed to control it is also greatly reduced.

In both methods, the level of algae is being controlled by a sanitizer and some other agent that controls algae growth. But with the MIC method, you are actually removing the key nutrient that makes algae grow to begin with —phosphates. Some companies will tell you that it isn't necessary to remove the phosphates from your pool water, and they are correct—in a perfect world. However, as we all know, it's not a perfect world. Some-times it rains and sometimes the sanitizer or algistat is not added to the pool when needed. As a result the chemical level in the pool is not sufficient to pre-vent algae growth—and you get a green pool (usually on the hottest day in July!).

The benefit of keeping the phosphate level as close to zero as possible is that when the chemical level in the pool drops very low it's still sufficient to control algae growth. Both methods work, but the combination of phosphate removal and low sanitizer level is much more reliable at keeping the pool algae-free!

The benefit to you is that you can go away on vacation or watch it rain for a few days and know that when it is hazy, hot and humid again and you want a refreshing dip, you’ll still be able to enjoy an algae-free pool. To learn more about the choices you have in pool and spa maintenance, con-tact us at (717) 393-1600 or visit us at www.Integrity-Pools.com.

Replacing your existing bathtub with a shower is becoming increasingly popular for its convenience and style options. Depending on the age of the house, different sizes and materials are used for the new shower but generally a shower can be installed right into the existing tub space with very minimal disruption to the rest of the bathroom, even the existing flooring. Usually only a small amount of drywall patching is necessary around the new unit.

Options for the shower range from fiber-glass units to solid surface surrounds to ceramic tile. Most showers are done in tile because it offers the most design flexibility, best compliments the style of the house and offers lifetime durability. Trends in tile lean towards 6”x6” to 12”x12” sized tile installed to the ceiling to hinder mildew above the shower. FireplacesColor and style are brought in with decorative tiles in many shapes and materials including metal and glass accents.

Available add-ons to the shower are plentiful. Many people find recessed lighting above useful. Corner or recessed shelves can be installed for shampoo and soap. Corner or bench seats can be added and tiled in to match the surround. While a standard shower head is always available, many clients choose to use their new shower as a true spa experience by adding handheld showers, rain heads and body sprays. Grab bars in complimentary finishes can also be added for the safety conscious. Shower doors vary from pivot to sliding by-pass doors with multiple finishes to match the faucets and a myriad of glass options. Doors are also now available with minimal framing for a cleaner, simpler look.

The average cost of a tub to shower replacement is $3,000-$5,000 depending on size and the materials chosen. The project generally lasts about 3 days from start to finish and your shower will be unusable during this time.

A new shower can be an excellent investment in the convenience and beauty of your bathroom. Brubaker Inc. will custom design your shower to meet your desires. Call us today to schedule an appointment for this exciting renovation. Brubaker Inc. 717-299-5643 or email us at remodel@brubakerinc.com and ask for Nicole or Mike.

Asphalt pavement needs time to cure, typically 18-24 months. During this time the oils that make up the asphalt pavement will remain soft and pliable on the surface, especially on hot and humid days. Once the new pavement has been installed, we recommend that you keep any vehicles off of your new pavement for a minimum of 3 days to a week, unless special considerations are discussed.

When using your new driveway, take care not to turn your vehicle wheels back and forth while in a stationary position or make sharp turns. Radial tires will often grip the surface of the pavement and ‘tear’ the surface, leaving noticeable marks. This is referred to as ‘tire scuffing.’ Tire scuffing on new asphalt pavement is generally minor, and while it looks rather severe, it will heal in time. One would have a difficult time actually finding these scuff locations later in the life of the pavement.

Whenever possible, avoid gasoline and oil spills on your new asphalt surface. If this should occur, a degreasing product such as Simple Green or another comparable water-based product can be used to assist in cleaning the surface. Gasoline and oil will soften and breakdown the oils that make up your asphalt driveway and cause premature deterioration of your pavement surface, which may need attention from an asphalt installer.

Beware of placing heavy objects such as jacks, motorcycle kickstands, etc. directly on the pavement. We recommend placing a piece of plywood on the surface of the paving to more evenly distribute the weight of the object you wish to place on the asphalt surface.

With regard to asphalt sealers, we recommend that you wait to seal your new driveway until the pavement has had two full years to cure. Applying sealers to the surface of asphalt does not guarantee increased longer life of your asphalt surface.

Sealers are primarily used to blacken or paint asphalt pavement, which has aged and has become ‘bleached’ by the sun where the oils become less pliable and hairline cracks may result. Thus, sealers are used to cover over these cracks, but in time these cracks may reappear again as the pavement ages. It is important to know that applying driveway sealers too often may result in premature deterioration of your driveway. So the question often debated is: do I put money into sealing my drive every couple years or do I save that money and invest it in an asphalt overlay when my drive is showing age and distress after 10 -15 years?

People often want to dress up their black or faded asphalt driveway to compliment their landscaping and home. A new decorative product known as “Street Print” is an alternative to consider. ‘Street Print’ is an imprinted design installed in the asphalt pavement, which offers various shapes and patterns of brick and stone. A colored sealer coating is then added to the surface to create a highly attractive asphalt driveway. It offers an affordable enhancement to any homeowner's property.

A paved surface area is an investment that should last a long time. Quality and careful application is critical for longevity. As you are considering the condition of your paved surface, we invite you to cal lour Paving Sales department at B.R. Kreider & Son, Inc. and visit our web site at www.brkreider.com.

A good place to start is by looking at the company. Being a local company offers customers enormous advantages. If you need any type of after sales service do you think it would be better handled by a company that is within a short drive from your home or one that has several hours drive? A local showroom with full-size products and knowledgeable staff to help you is a great start. You will not only get a feel for the company but you will see the type of work they do and the type of people you will be working with. If it is a customer-oriented company, the opening hours will be devised around the public as opposed to 9-5 when most people are at work. (At Aspen Home Improvement we are open 7 days a week.)

Secondly take a good look at the company warranty. Reviewing the warranty up front before a buying decision is made is a must. If you can not read the small print ask yourself “why is it so small?” The answer may be because they don't want you to read it. When you’re comparing different brands of replacement windows, the details of the warranty will be the indicator of the window quality and the company's willingness to stand behind their product. If it doesn't appear in writing in the warranty, why doesn't it? If it's covered by the warranty why isn't it in writing? Is it because it's simply not covered? Don't take the salesman's word on it—ask for it in writing. Aspen pays 100% of the costs of replacement parts and 100% of the labor for any work required on our White Knight Elite windows for the lifetime of the home—no matter how many times the house is sold. And it's in writing that you can clearly read. Too many companies justify their 1-year labor warranty by saying “If anything is going to go wrong, it's in the first year.” Not true! How many people do you know whose glass has fogged up or need a replacement part? Problems can occur after year one—and they do.

Thirdly ask about the installers who will be doing your work. Are they salaried staff of the company or subcontractors? Did you know that if a subcontractor installs your windows and you pay the company, the installer can put a lean against YOUR house if he doesn't get paid by the company? It doesn't matter if you have paid or not. This is a huge risk to take. Make sure they have proof of insurance. If they damage your property or an accident happens to them while on your property they MUST have insurance.

And last but not least—consider the product. If you made your selection based on the above points, the rest should be easy to figure out because the company couldn't offer an inferior product and still stand by its labor and product warranty. If they did, they would be losing money by running around fixing problems all day—for free! Most windows today have an Energy Star rating and most people think that's the only thing you should look for. Again, not true! Make sure you check out the window's drainage system and its welded insulated frames. The vinyl frame needs to be substantial. In our showroom, we have some samples of what NOT to buy. You may be able to poke a pencil through a fiberglass screen, but should it tear simply by running your finger nails across it? Look for anodized aluminum screens which are much stronger and don't rust.

In short, to ensure you are making a wise decision, you must do your homework. Visit the showrooms and ask your questions. Ask the representative(s) to explain things in a way that you understand and make sure things are in writing. Sign your contract only when you are comfortable with all aspects of the deal. If you are feeling pressured to sign, don't.

As defined by the Oriental Rug Importers Association, Inc, an Oriental rug is “…handmade of natural fibers (most commonly wool or silk) with a pile woven on a warp and weft, with individual character and design, and made in the Near East, Middle East, Far East, or the Balkans.”

An Oriental rug is hand woven and varies in quality. Quality is generally determined by quality of the wool, intricacy of design, and knot density. Wool quality is defined by the length of its fibers, springiness, and luster. Today, the wool used in hand-knotted Oriental rugs either originates exclusively from the country of origin, or is a blend of indigenous and imported wool. Intricacy of design refers to the degree of detail a design possesses as well as the number of different colors needed to execute the pattern. The more complex the design, the more experienced the craftsman must be to weave the pattern. Knot density and fineness of weave are the same. The more knots tied per square inch, the finer the detail in the design and the more labor is required in weaving the rug. Also worth noting, alloriental carpets feature a slight variation in color or design, which is part of the special charm and appeal of this handcrafted product.

 

A handmade Oriental rug is a woven product of timeless beauty and cultural mystique that has remained virtually unchanged for centuries. The earliest surviving piece dates back to about the 4th or 5th century B.C. It was discovered in an excavated burial site in southern Siberia. Although weaving techniques and traditions have remained virtually unchanged, other dramatic changes have occurred. In today's handmade Oriental carpet industry, the weavers and importers have found it advantageous to adopt more designs and colors to better satisfy western decorative tastes. The sharp increase in production of Persian-design carpets in other countries, particularly China, India, and Pakistan, offers consumers a wide variety of color and design choices available in a full range of prices. While machine-made carpets are manufactured to machine-like standards, handmade rugs reflect the human element; the individual's own interpretation of color and design, which is the essence of their beauty and oneness.

 

Handmade Oriental rugs are the very latest floor covering fashion statement. Consumers and interior designers allover the country have discovered their tremendous versatility in style, color, type and size, and are using them to define or enhance residential and commercial decors. As stated earlier, Oriental rugs are being woven to suit an infinite realm of decorative styles spanning the traditional oriental looks to European, Art Deco, and contemporary.

 

Like any other work of fine art, the Oriental rug is designed to provide enjoyment to its present owner and generations to come. However, to ensure its beauty and long life, some simple steps are recommended. Normal care is to vacuum regularly to prevent dirt and grit from sifting into the roots of the fibers. Do not vacuum the fringe; brush the fringe. You should use a quality, recommended pad under the rug and rug protectors under the legs of heavy furniture. Over time, grit and dirt become embedded so deeply that professional cleaning is required. Professional cleaning will remove this dirt as well as the surface soiling that gradually dulls the appearance of a rug. Depending on the amount of traffic, cleaning every 3 to 5 years is recommended. Cleaning should be done by a professional service specializing in Oriental rugs, one that is familiar with hand woven products. It is strongly recommended that cleaning not be attempted by a “wash-at-home” service. For emergencies such as spills, tears, holes or worn spots, call your professional rug dealer.

 

A few words of advice when purchasing your work of art—you should purchase it from an established retailer of Oriental rugs, whose integrity and reputation can be verified in the community. You should avoid traveling auctions, often held at hotels and airports. They may be here today and gone tomorrow. You should protect yourself by being able to deal with someone on an ongoing basis. You should beware of “Going-Out-Of-Business” sales, which may be promotional schemes, where values are exaggerated and the quality of the merchandise is mediocre or below average. Once you find the rug that appeals to you, it is acceptable to question the retailer about quality, suitability, etc., and, if you like, take it home to try. Most respectable retailers of Oriental rugs will allow you to try a rug at home without obligation.

 

A handmade Oriental rug will add a unique blend of excitement, mystique and charm to your home or office. It is a work of art to be treasured, not only during your lifetime but also generations to come.

With the obvious bias (ha ha), I will give you some good guidelines to go by in making your selection for a painting contractor. There are three important questions that can ensure you receive a quality job that you will be happy with for years to come.
What prep will be done?
What will be the finish paint used?
What warranty is offered?

A quality long-lasting paint job begins with proper prep. In the painting world all paint jobs are not created equal. The actual painting is the easy part. Your project deserves a company that will pay attention to the dirty work on a job, like scraping, sanding and caulking. These are the elements vital to a long-lasting job. Look for a company that sells you on the prep.

Make sure that the contractor is offering you the best possible finish. Most paint companies have a top-of-the line paint. Quality paints are better and more expensive for a reason. They have a greater chemical make up and years of research to ensure their durability. Like all good purchases, a little internet or store research will be helpful in educating you. Generally, the more expensive the better in the painting world, especially when it comes to materials.

Lastly, make sure that your prospective contractor gives a warranty. As you know, a paint job can be a sizable investment and worthy of some security. A good rule of thumb for warranties is a year. This should cover all cracks, pops or blemishes in the finish. All top-of-the line paints carry a warranty. It is the labor end of things that you need to be concerned with.

Remember, a paint job is more than just adding color. When done right, it will be an investment in the beauty and value of your home.

Yes, I have heard time and time again from customers that the light from their sunroom lifts their spirits during the cold and dreary days of winter. In fact, winter is one of the busiest times of the year for many sunroom companies due to the desire for customers to escape the cold wind for a relaxing retreat where they can immerse themselves in the tranquility and beauty of the season

To take full advantage of your escape from the elements, the most important consideration is to ensure you get the most energy-efficient glass available. The wrong glass can make a sunroom too cold in winter putting you right back where you were with your patio or deck.

Consider a room for year-round use with high-performance, heat-reflective glass. Heat-reflective glass reflects winter heat back into the addition allowing for comfortable year-round use of the sunroom.

 

During the cold days of winter, I would suggest you look for a product with Energy Star qualification from the United States Department of Energy. Energy Star qualification will alert you that a product is more efficient helping to save on the price of heating your new addition! When you choose a company with Energy Star qualification, you should specifically ask if the sunroom in which you are interested is an Energy Star product. Look for high center of glass R-values for more insulating power.

The elements that make these rooms great are lots of light, nice views, and good access. A sunroom will brighten up your living space as it allows light to spread to adjoining rooms.

 

As a Four Seasons Sunrooms franchise, we specialize in designing and building sunrooms that can be used in all seasons. Visit our web site at www.PAsunrooms.com for complete details on ConservaGlass Plus, our exclusive, heat-reflective glass designed for year round use.

Nu-Wool Engineered Cellulose Insulation is made from recycled newspapers. This environmentally friendly green insulation provides up to 40% savings on energy bills when compared to conventional insulation materials. According to the Department of Energy, between 50% and 70% of the energy consumed in the typical American home goes toward heating and cooling, accounting for a large chunk of the total energy bill.

Often too much air leakage means that a lot of this energy is being wasted. The density of Nu-Wool Insulation eliminates the voids and air pockets common with conventional insulation. Annual heating and cooling bills will be lower with Nu-Wool. So, while conventional insulation can sometimes cost less initially, Nu-Wool Engineered Cellulose Insulation not only saves on energy costs, it makes your house more comfortable. Walls, ceilings, and floors stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, which helps maintain a uniform temperature throughout the house. For more information, call Lezzer Lumber in Lancaster at 717.393.3605 or in Harrisburg at 717.526.4781 or e-mail Steve Waller at stevewaller@lezzer.com.

Over the past few years there has been a large growing demand for an alternative to the traditional whirlpool. Years ago the whirlpool industry flourished as homeowners wanted a spa like master bath suite with a private luxury bathing area, as well as wanting to add value to their home. The whirlpool was the way to achieve that goal. Through time the homeowner was not using the whirlpool as much as they had anticipated for a few main reasons; large jets that only hit the bather at specific points, the inability to use essential oils, bubble bath, and other bathing products in the bath because of the risk of harming the jets, the maintenance required to keep bacteria from growing in the piping, and the worry about children's safety while bathing because of the strong suction and a higher minimum water level requirements.

First, we need to point out the differences between the standard whirlpool and an air jetted tub. Standard whirlpools use water with 4 to 12 jets for the massage and air tubs use air with 30 to 70 jets. This sounds simple enough, but a big difference is that with air tubs there are no external pipes to hold water from the previous bather or to develop future leaks. For further indulgence you can use your favorite bath oils, bubble bath and aromatherapy but with standard whirlpools the pumps could be damaged with these products. Many air tubs also offer an automatic drying cycle after each use to prevent bacteria and mold growth anywhere in the unit.

Bain Ultra air tubs featured on HGTV in October's “Save My Bath” and “Medieval Bathroom Gets a Makeover” is the founder of the Air Jetted tub system. Bain Ultra offers many standard features not available on other units. They start with an easy to use control that allows the user to adjust the massage from soft champagne like bubbles to an invigorating massage. A heated backrest to sooth back and neck muscles and help maintain water temperature up to 30 minutes is standard on all models. Many units offer an inverted V backrest for additional comfort and an elevated seat area which allows massaging action even on the bottoms of your legs.

The Thermo Masseur is a great option for bathers who enjoy the use of aromatherapy and chromatherapy. Aromatherapy provides therapy through nasal and skin absorption while the bather is immured in their bath. The use of aromatherapy products is completely safe for your air jet system. Chromatherapy is the use of the energy embodied in specific colors to balance your metabolism and emotions. Most light systems are made up of 6 different colored lights, each of which promotes a different stimulating or calming experience for the bather. The use of a hydro-thermo massage along with aromatherapy and chromatherapy is a great way to create a complete therapeutic bathing experience.

Other areas of concern which the air jet system has eliminated are hygiene and safety concerns. The Thermo Masseur air injection system ensures full drainage of the tubs air channels by sending a powerful 90 second drying cycle though the channel, which activates automatically 10 minutes after you end your session. This drying cycle creates perfect hygiene by not leaving any water behind in your tub to create mold or bacteria between baths. Since hydro-thermo massage systems are able to run without water there is no minimum water level required, and with no suction or large, higher placed jets this makes the Thermo Masseur completely safe for the entire family to enjoy!

When choosing the perfect tub for you, don't forget to consider the ease of installation of your product. We have received many positive comments on the simplicity and ease of installation of the Thermo Masseur. With the ability to install the turbine in a remote location, up to 15’ away, the bather can enjoy their spa experience quietly, with the water action being the only sound. Also, have a comforting knowledge that the remote pump installation will never develop leaks since only air moves through the pipes. For your added convenience, the easy to use standard control on most units allows you to adjust the turbulence and the temperature on the heated backrest. It can be mounted on the deck or any wall, or for further indulgence you can use the optional remote control.

Since Bain Ultra so highly regards total body and mind relaxation, it is no surprise that they use only top quality materials like an acrylic shell instead of fiberglass. Acrylic is stronger than fiberglass and the color is through the entire material, unlike fiberglass which has only a thin color top coat. To ensure your long term satisfaction, an industry leading 20-year warranty on the acrylic and turbine comes with each unit.

After learning about the features and benefits of an air jet system we hope you will better be able to decide which systems you personally will be the most happy with. If you would like more information on Bain Ultra's Thermo Masseur or any other air jet and whirlpool systems please visit us at The Thos. Somerville Showroom, or on the web at www.tsomerville.com.

Although most homeowners don't buy them for this reason, there is no doubt that the use of window coverings can help make your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Not to mention the substantial reduction in ultraviolet rays which can cause your furnishings to fade.

Let's first consider some arresting numbers: 40% of the heat that escapes from your home leaves through the windows. And 50% of the solar heat that enters a room comes in through—you guessed it—the windows. Obviously, energy efficient treatments can translate into considerable utility bill savings, especially if your windows are on a cold north exposure in the winter or a sun-saturated west wall in the summer.

The most energy efficient treatments feature a honeycomb fabric construction. The cells actually trap the hot or cold air, decreasing the intensity of the temperature as it enters the room. A honeycomb shade with a triple cell construction will increase the energy efficiency of a single pane of glass by five times and more than double the energy efficiency of a double-glazed window.

These super efficient shades can also be specially manufactured for use in skylight windows. They will allow a soft filtered light to enter the room while keeping out the scorching heat all summer long.

Plantation shutters are extremely popular right now and they also do a great job of keeping out cool drafts from windows and sliding doors. Since wood is naturally insulating, they also can help keep rooms much cooler in the summer as well.

If honeycomb shades or plantation shutters don't suit your taste, many other window coverings also protect from the heat and cold. Vertical blinds, woven wood shades, and Silhouette® Window Shadings are some of the many other energy saving products to choose from. And they too can help filter out over 95% of the sun's damaging UV rays which means your furniture and flooring will last much longer without fading. An experienced window coverings dealer can help guide you to the products that will maximize energy efficiency while beautifying your windows.

There are many different options when configuring a game room. The first decision would be to determine what type of games you would enjoy the most and what would actually fit.

Today, one of the most popular games for your room is a pool table. Being a game that almost anyone can enjoy, a pool table fits any lifestyle. As far as space requirements, 13’ 4” x 17’ will give you enough space to use a standard 58” pool cue.

If space is an issue or you need more games to fill the space, other popular games include foosball, air hockey, shuffleboard or a multi-functional poker table. Most poker tables today are made with a reversible top transforming it into a regular dining table. The dining top can also be used for board games, puzzles, or any other everyday projects using a large table.When creating a game room everyone can enjoy, make sure enough space is given to each game for a comfortable and fun atmosphere. You’ll find more information and product options on our web site: www.barstoolsandbilliards. net.

And remember, “if it's fun, we have it”.

This is a very good question and a legitimate concern. An addition can be a very large expense and you want it to be something not only you enjoy but will also be visually appealing and add to the value of your home. Computer CAD programs currently allow for this “design issue” to be solved. A designer can take your existing house

and draw it on the computer. From there he can add the addition, trees, sidewalks, garages, etc. and you have a 3D model of the finished project. You can sit down with the designer, view it on the computer, take a virtual tour of the home, and tell him your likes and dislikes.

If you don't like the overall design, you can erase it and start again or make changes so it fits into the architecture of your house. This, of course, would be very expensive to do on site, but on the computer it is much more affordable and only takes a few clicks of the mouse. It also saves money because it helps the designer and homeowner find problems in the design prior to even getting a building permit.

You no longer need to rely on someone else's opinion of the design. Instead, you can make that judgment for yourself. The peace of mind knowing that you will like the final product will make the whole building process much more enjoyable.

I hope this answers your questions and helps the process of building your home go smoothly. Feel free to call me with any more questions or visit my web site at www.goodyshomedesign.com.

In the early days (which really weren't that long ago), you would’ve been right about your maintenance concerns. Fortunately, the spa technology and additives have evolved to such a degree that I’m happy to report that nothing could be further from the truth. Hot tubs today require very little time and, for that matter, very little money to maintain. Today's spas are equipped with superior sanitation systems that allow the user to be confident every time they enter their spa.

Among the sanitation system components that are used today are ozanators, which are highly effective bacteria killers. Ozanators produce ozone which produces oxygen 3 which kills bacteria. Unfortunately, ozanators alone will not completely sanitize your spa—assistance is needed from chlorine. Some manufacturers use a combination of sanitizing agents, which include the afore’ mentioned ozanator coupled with a product called Microban. Microban antimicrobial protection was developed to neutralize bacteria and fungal growth in products. Interestingly enough the product never wears out. Microban is used widely in the Johnson and Johnson company, Playskool, Farberware, Fruit of the Loom, just to name a few. Again when using with spas it would be aided by chlorine.

The next line of bacteria fighters is the system commonly referred to as mineral cartridges or mineral filters. These are 2 metals combined to be toxic to micro organisms (but NOT humans). This is a highly effective method of sanitation when combined with ozone, Microban and trace amounts of chlorine. The very last item in the maintenance section would be what is called a 24-hour circulation pump. This is simply a pump that runs very efficiently and filters the entire body of water well over 100 times a day, every day.

Now, back to your original question. In total, the amount of time you’ll need to commit to spa maintenance is somewhere between a measly 5 to 10 minutes a week. Clearly the maintenance myth is just that—a myth. Happy spa shopping!

There are many considerations and steps involved in taking on a project of this magnitude. The advantages of hiring a contractor are varied and often not so obvious. Though the job seems simple as you are only pulling out old cabinetry, flooring, plumbing fixtures and appliances, there are multiple steps and trade partners involved in the process. Initially acquiring the necessary permits from the municipality is at the top of the list, and can be fairly simple, or as complicated and painful as a root canal. Nevertheless, there will be plumbing and electrical work involved that require the municipality's blessing, and require plans and specifications, which are not always easy for the layman/homeowner to obtain.

A kitchen renovation will start with a kitchen design plan that can either be accomplished by an independent fee paid kitchen designer or by the cabinetry supplier who will include the costs of the plan as part of their kitchen package. The kitchen designer will work with you to get exactly the layout you want, but space requirements for appliances, sink, and faucet requirements and electrical specifications are not addressed by the kitchen designer, but must be addressed before products are ordered. A bath renovation will include much less cabinetry, but will require a plan showing the amount of space allotted to each of the fixtures, plumbing accesses, and electrical requirements. Plumbing showrooms showcase their products, but do not provide any type of working plans.

The most time-consuming and arduous task in the process is the one of coordination and scheduling. A typical homeowner isn't skilled in knowing how long it will take to rip out the old floors, cabinetry, fixtures, etc. and as things are put back together, what order they go in. Would you know that if you don't put the finished flooring under the cabinetry, when you are ready to install the dishwasher, will you have the necessary height requirement to accommodate it? Are you planning for solid surface or granite countertops? Will you know to allow at least two weeks lead time to schedule for them to “template” the top, and then will you realize the countertops will take another 2-3 weeks to be made, delivered and installed on the job? Will you know what size trash container to order and from whom? Will you remember to tell the electrician that you’re getting a gas cook top and an electric wall oven and one is 110 volts and the other is 220?

The advantage that you gain from having an experienced contractor handle your job is that you get the most complete and satisfactory job with the least amount of stress. The contractor's experience will give thought to all the things that go into making your newly renovated kitchen or master bath the one that you’ve been dreaming of for years. Contractors deal with every day issues that make the job challenging, and that experience provides them with the scheduling knowledge to accommodate backorders and delays.

There's also the cost factor—yes, you’re paying them to supervise and coordinate, but the pricing structures that exist with other trade partners is not easily duplicated, and long-standing relationships provide the opportunity for cooperation if something goes awry. (If budget is a concern, some contractors may allow you to provide some DIY (do-it-yourself) labor, i.e. painting, with the understanding that this may impact the scheduling). These trade partners have also been selected with regard to the quality of work and the value they bring to the table. If there's a problem down the line, they’re going to be there for the contractor and for you—the satisfied customer.

Today there are mortgage financing options specifically designed to fund major renovation projects. In the past, the only choices for most families were home equity loans and home equity lines of credit. These can be useful tools, but have their limitations. Most home equity loans are limited to shorter terms of 15 to 20 years, resulting in higher payments. Rates on most long term home equity loans are considerably higher than residential mortgages. Home equity lines of credit are usually based on a variable rate, which means your payments will vary and can go higher. Another significant limitation is that these products are based on the current value of your home, so you need to have significant equity in your home to finance a major project.

Mortgage lenders can now offer a longer term fixed rate mortgage solution, specifically designed to fund major home improvement projects. These renovation loans allow you to finance your project based on the future value of your home. This is achieved by completing an appraisal that establishes the new value of your home, based on the planned improvements.

With a renovation loan you can combine your existing mortgage and the cost of the improvements into one loan with one monthly payment, at today's low fixed rates. You can lock in the rate at the beginning of the project, and take as much as 12 months to complete the work. And with terms up to 30 years, you can have the home of your dreams while maintaining a comfortable and affordable payment.

You should pay special attention to the glass which constructs your sunroom. Many sunroom companies use low-e glass, found in your home's windows, which gets very hot in summer. (For a home's windows, low-e glass is okay because it is a low percentage of the total wall surface.) Tinted glass, also popular, darkens a room but also gets very hot. Your car's windows are tinted, and in summer, you can feel the heat inside your car!

Consider purchasing a sunroom with heat-reflective glass. This will reduce the relative heat gain, glare and UV damage that many sunroom companies can't effectively combat with regular glazing's. Heat-reflective glass reduces summer heat gain and reflects winter heat back into the addition allowing for comfortable, year-round use of the sunroom.

I also recommend that you look for a product with Energy Star qualification from the United States Department of Energy. Energy Star qualification will alert you that a product is more efficient. Beware that when you choose a company with Energy Star qualification, you should specifically ask if the sunroom in which you are interested is an Energy Star product. Look for high center of glass R-values for more insulating power and low BTU/ HR/SQ. FT of relative heat gain.

Look for a company that has been around for a long time and installing the same product brand. Unfortunately, many companies switch brands and can not service their old product lines. Many sunroom companies do not survive for more than five years; it is a very competitive business.

One final word of advice is to watch for a transferable warranty with your new purchase. As a Four Seasons Sunrooms franchise, we specialize in designing and building sunrooms that can be used in all four seasons. Visit our web site at www.PAsunrooms.com for complete details on ConservaGlass Plus, our heat-reflective glass designed for year-round use.

An extended warranty protects your investment for the long run. It's a small price to pay for your peace of mind. It covers parts and labor for any repairs that you could face as your equipment ages. Major parts are typically covered under the manufacturer's limited warranty, which is packaged with your equipment, but the labor for replacement is not. This is where an extended warranty can more than pay for itself— in fact, it can save you a bundle of money.

Parts can be cheap in relation to the actual time it takes a skilled technician to make the repair. And as you know, these rates will only increase as time marches on, so think long and hard before you pass up the opportunity to purchase an extended warranty.

Please note that routine maintenance is required as a part of any extended warranty program for your heating/cooling system. Repairs that are required due to lack of routine maintenance are not covered and will be rejected by the manufacturer. If you decide to invest in an extended warranty, don't stop short by neglecting the required maintenance to keep the program intact. Check out our Haller Preferred Customer Programs (PCPs) which allow you to select a maintenance agreement that fits your needs. For more information about extended warranty coverage for your home heating/cooling equipment, please call the Haller Service Department or contact us via email at svcreq@hallerent.com.

Because of its natural beauty and charm, it's easy to fall in love with the look of stone. Unfortunately, natural stone can be very pricey. When you consider how scarce stone is and that each stone has to be quarried, delivered, fitted, and installed separately, it's not surprising that natural stone is beyond the reach of most homeowners. There is, however, a popular and more affordable alternative—stone veneer.

Stone veneer is manufactured stone that can be created, delivered and installed at a fraction of the price of natural stone. Equally important, a quality veneer will look as beautiful and authentic as natural stone. At Signature Stone, our stone is designed by local expert mill workers, most of whom have worked with natural stone for decades. Handling and installing stone has given them a keen sense of what stone should look and feel like. In fact, our signature line of stone is well researched. Rather than offer any type of stone on earth, our stone is based on what's available locally—to match the look of other homes that use natural stone. Lancaster County and its surrounding area is a great source of inspiration for 200 year+ old homes. Our stone is very closely matched to that stone in texture, size, shape, color, and method of installation. In fact, many of our molds are handcrafted and custom designed so each piece looks different. Also, the color of our stone can be tinted to match existing natural or manufactured stonework on your home, or in the area.

While not all stone veneer is created equal, a quality veneer will look and feel real. A quality veneer will also be durable and should come with a warranty to back it up. (At Signature Stone, we offer a 30-year warranty ensuring that our product is built to last and retain its beauty.) Most importantly, keep in mind that from a durability and professional looking standpoint, the most critical part of the project is the installation. A quality firm will ensure that each detail, corner and edge of the product is perfectly installed.

As for applications, the most popular use of stonework is on exteriors where it can be used in conjunction with existing stone, brick or brick veneer, stucco, siding, etc. Stonework can be designed to be used to cover large areas, or just accent windows and doors. Other applications that are gaining in popularity include fireplaces and mantles where the stonework becomes the centerpiece of a great room. Another area of the home where we are seeing increased interest in stone is in outdoor spaces including pool areas, decks, patios, walkways, and staircases. Mailboxes, entryways, fences, and gates are other popular applications as are garden planters.

To see for yourself just how authentic stone veneer can be, we invite you to visit our showroom. We think you’ll be amazed at its beauty, variety, and price. (See our ad on left for location).

Emphatically, yes. Mulch can be a help—particularly in new open beds—to control erosion, retain moisture, increase the organic matter in soil, and control weeds. On the other hand, if applied too deeply, mulch can threaten the well-being of any plant.

There are two main concerns to address when selecting and applying mulch. The first concern is that the stem, or trunk, of a plant is prone to rot and insect entry when in contact with mulch or soil. Before applying mulch, check to make sure that nothing is touching the stem of any plant, and keep your new mulch well away from the trunk. You can tell where the trunk begins by locating the root “collar”. This collar is the dividing line between the roots and the stem; in general, roots can tolerate soilor mulch contact, while trunks cannot. The root collar is usually found below the flared portion of the trunk to which the roots attach, and looks like a seam or wrinkle. It should always be dry and visible. No mulch should be applied above that point.

One easy way to tell when a plant is buried too deeply is that its trunk still looks straight when it disappears into the mulch or soil. The excess material needs to be removed (or sometimes the plant even needs to be dug and replanted at a higher level) to allow for the trunk to remain clean and dry.

A common problem that develops when trees or shrubs are mulched too deeply is the growth of girdling roots. These roots grow from the bark of the trunk above the buried root collar, and initially lack the directional information to grow away from the stem. Many of them follow the soft mulch around the tree, and then take hold, becoming growing roots. When this happens, it is just a matter of time before they swell, hardening into a noose that, like cancer, strangles the tree with its own growth. Make sure that anyone who plants or mulches your trees understands and cares enough to prevent soilor mulch contact above the root collar.

The second main concern is mulch porosity. The smaller roots that spread beyond the plant near the surface of the soil need to “breathe”. When mulch is too deep, the flow of water and air to and away from these roots is cut off. The finer the size of mulch particles, the thinner the application should be. Fine, soil-like mulch may be too thick if applied more than about 1” thick, while coarse mulch could be applied at a depth of up to 3”. When spreading new mulch over existing mulch, follow the same guidelines. Previous years’ mulch will be finer due to natural decay which, if not removed, can build up to a suffocating level.

Mulch is best used in the open spaces between plants, kept to a depth that promotes air exchange as it keeps down weeds and enriches the soil.

Cork has been used as a flooring material for hundreds of years. This environmentally sound material has numerous natural features that appeal to homeowners, and unique looks that enrich any room of the home. Cork is currently experiencing a resurgence in popularity. It is harvested approximately once every 9 years from the bark of a Cork Oak tree. Because this process is done without damaging the trees, cork is considered to be one of the most environmentally friendly flooring products available.

The cells in cork retain air, giving it the ability to float, insulate and re-expand quickly after compression. The unique cell structure makes cork ideal for use in flooring as it reduces sound, is warm to the touch, and is comfortable to walk on. In addition, cork is a fire inhibitor due to a naturally occurring substance called Suberin. This same Suberin is also a natural insect repellant, even termites are repelled by it. This substance also makes cork resistant to mold and mildew, and will even prevent cork from rotting when completely submerged in water for an extended period of time. Cork does not absorb dust or other allergens. If you are sensitive to mold or have allergies, yet want the comfort and warmth of carpet, cork is the ideal alternative.

As for cork's durability, the key is its resilience. This quality allows the flooring to “give” which extends wear and resists denting. Cork floors come pre-finished. This technology has eliminated the excessive maintenance requirements of cork floors from years gone by. As with most hard surface floors, regular sweeping and damp mopping is preferred. In conclusion, cork is a naturally beautiful and renewable product whose versatility is unmatched in flooring.

As I write this on March 14th, the temperature is 78 degrees and threatens to be a record high for this date. If it is 78 in March, how will I ever survive the upcoming summer? Before you go for the Prozac, breathe in deeply and try to relax. Al Gore has been told by his scientist's friends to back off a bit, because weather as we know it will remain about the same, plus or minus a ½ degree. But on the other hand, even if Al Gore is wrong, there will be many hot and uncomfortable days ahead of us this summer. It is interesting that people panic more with the hot weather then they do with the cold weather. Thirty years ago few homes had central AC, but today we demand comfort year round.

The delivery of AC has leap frogged ahead in its technology. Not only is the equipment light years ahead of the existing units, but the science of delivering the conditioned air to the desired space has been perfected. Today there is no excuse for having an uncomfortable room. Humidity control has reduced mold concerns to nil, systems are so efficient they can cut your utility bills in half, and dust, dust mites, and spores that cause allergies can be removed from the air. Your house can be cleaner and healthier then the great outdoors, if your system (equipment and ductwork) is installed and sealed properly. On the other hand, if the best equipment is installed by an untrained professional, that same house can become a victim of sick building syndrome and be a detriment to your family's health.

Choose carefully the contractor that services, installs, and creates your indoor living environment. The make of the equipment is the least important factor to consider. The contractor you choose is the key. Make all the right moves and surviving this aspect of global warming will be a piece of cake.

There are four critical characteristics that should be carefully evaluated before hiring a remodeler. I’ll address each one separately.

• Experience. Ask how long the remodeler has been in business. Longevity suggests financial stability, which is necessary for the remodeler to finish the job and still be available if problems crop up after the job is completed. Also, the more jobs the company has completed, the more expertise the remodeler will bring to your project and the hidden surprises that remodeling typically entails.

• Reputation. Look to the remodelers’ former and current customers to gauge the company's reputation. Obtain the names and phone numbers of customers you can call to get their impressions of the company's work and customer service. Call them and make personal visits to see the work they had done. Even better, get references from customers whose projects were similar to the one your family is planning. Also, go visit one of the company's jobs in progress to evaluate how they manage the construction process and how tidy they keep the job site. Ask whether these homeowners would hire the company again.

• Business Credentials. A good place to start your search for a remodeler is with your local builders association and its affiliated Remodelors™ Council. Groups like these help to keep their members informed about new products, construction techniques, business practices and industry issues. Participation demonstrates a remodeler's commitment to professionalism and to the remodeling industry. Many trade groups also confer professional credentials, such as Certified Graduate Remodelor (CGR), to those who meet their requirements, which is a positive indicator of the remodeler's reputation.

• Insurance. It is also important to verify that the remodeler carries workers’ 36 - R&A MAGAZINE - SPRING 2007 compensation and liability insurance. Have the remodeler show you copies of both insurance certificates to protect yourself from liability in situations involving job site injuries or property damage resulting from the work being done on your home. If your goal is a professional remodeling project, then your best bet is to hire a professional remodeler. The extra cost will pay for itself in the satisfaction you receive while the project is in progress and during the many years you will enjoy the completed project.

Basically, an intrusion and fire alarm system works off a CPU board, similar to a computer, which is placed in a control panel. At Choice Security System we attempt to locate the control panel in the basement out of sight. A keypad controls the CPU board and is located in a convenient location for the customer, such as near the garage entry door or bedroom. The keypad arms and disarms the system using a four digit number that the customer chooses. The fire system is always on and cannot be shut off. The control panel is also connected to the customer's telephone line.

When the siren is activated, it's loud—by design. At the same time, the CPU dials our monitoring station and we receive a signal informing us what device went off. In most cases, we dial the customers location, identify who we are and ask for their password. Once we identify that the proper password is given, we proceed accordingly. If an improper password is given, we dispatch the proper authorities.

With regard to fire systems, Pennsylvania passed a law that requires new residential homes to have a smoke detector in every bedroom and one on every floor. We also recommend placing a heat detector in the garage, near the furnace and attic. Placing a smoke detector in a garage may create false alarms with vehicle gas fumes. Smoke detectors are the best device for early warning of fire.

The siren must be heard clearly in the bedroom with the bedroom door closed. Most building inspectors have a device that measures the loudness of the siren. Our approach is to install smoke detectors that if one smoke detector goes off, they all go off. The objective of the siren is to wake everyone so that they can take appropriate action.

We also install smoke detectors that can be attached to our control panel. Therefore, if a smoke detector goes off and no one is home, a fire signal is still sent to us. We will then be able to dispatch the fire trucks. Fires can spread quickly, timing is everything.

With regard to an intrusion system, each home is different. We can accommodate whatever the customer wants. In any case we give the customer recommendations and options which allow them to make an intelligent decision.

If you read the police statistics, most break-ins occur through doors or through unlocked windows. Some basement windows are very easy to kick in and then unlock. Our approach is to alarm every door that leads to the outside and into the garage. If the burglar attempts to come through the door, the alarm goes off and the intruder usually leaves quickly.

Today, windows are double-paned and have two locks. i can tell you that 50% of the homes I survey for potential customers, I will identify an unlocked window. If the intruder comes through an unlocked window, we can identify them with motion detectors. I usually recommend one motion facing the stairs leading to the 2nd floor and one in the rear of the house. If appropriate, I sometimes recommend a motion detector
for the basement.

As for your renovation project, we recommend that you contact a security company early enough so that they can coordinate their work with the other trade partners involved in your project. At Choice, we usually install after the electrician and the plumber and before the drywall goes up. If that doesn't happen, there is enough wireless equipment
that we can utilize.

When choosing the right HVAC system, you’ll need to consider both the construction and condition of your home. Even before choosing your heating and cooling system, you will need to examine two important factors: insulation and infiltration. If you have a very old home, you most likely have very little insulation, if any, and your windows may be very leaky—allowing for outside air infiltration. Adding proper insulation and replacing windows in your home will greatly improve the heating and cooling efficiency of any HVAC system and will be worth the investment in the long run. Now let's consider the different HVAC system types and the pros and cons of each.

Heat Pumps. The most economical way of heating a home is with a heat pump. However, these systems have what i consider an unmerited reputation of being cold and drafty. I am convinced that this ill repute is due to faulty installation and bad duct design. Today, most contractors perform precise duct design calculations which make a heat pump system feel just about as comfortable as any other heat. The cost of a Super High Efficiency System such as 15+ SEER may not be worth the additional expense over a 13 SEER system. Ask your HVAC salesperson to do a cost of operation comparison between the two systems to see how long it would take to pay off the additional expense. If the payback is under 8-9 years, you should consider it. Anything over 10 years is probably not worth the additional cost, considering the average 12-year life span of most air-to-air heat pump systems.

Fueloilor Gas. Either of these fuel systems are good choices if you have a large home with insulation and/or infiltration issues. They have potentially fast recovery if you want to use a set back/programmable thermostat. The cost of operation is about the same between oil and LP because LP is a bi-product of oil. If you have the availability of natural gas, it is hard to beat. It is the most economical way to heat and you never need to refuel a tank. Gas furnaces are also very efficient, very reliable and require very minimal maintenance. Oil furnaces provide you with a lot of BTU's per gallon, however most fuel burners are only running at 83%-87% efficiency and require maintenance and cleaning on a regular basis.

Geothermal and Radiant In-Floor Heat. These two heating options are ideal in certain applications. Since an explanation would require a much lengthier description than this column allows, I suggest that you consult with your heating and cooling professional for more information.

In selecting your contractor, the first thing you need to do is ask your prospective contractor for customer references—including phone numbers. The second thing you’ll need to do is make those follow-up phone calls. Past customers will be great resources for your decision. Don't be afraid to ask your contractor to visit an ongoing and/or finished project. It's a great opportunity for him to show you firsthand his workmanship. Trust is essential between the homeowner and contractor, and references are an important step in gaining that trust. Ask the references if the contractor fulfilled his obligation and how he resolved problems. And lastly, communication is key. You and your contractor will be working together as a team, and having a strong communication base is vital to the success of your project.

In fact, how carefully you selected your contractor and how well you work as a team will play large roles in minimizing the stress and disruption of your project. The expectations of both the contractor and homeowner are important to discuss before getting started. More decisions and selections will be asked of you than you ever dreamed, so start early and get it out of the way as soon as possible. This will enable you to handle the few unexpected decisions that pop up—and still enjoy watching your project being built. Last minute decisions cause you and your contractor to play fire drill. Nothing quite compounds the stress for both homeowners and the contractor like having to make a decision in the 11th hour when panic starts setting in and you end up settling for something you really don't want. Changes to the scope of a project often alter the time frame and budget, so make sure you discuss with your contractor how he handles these decision changes. Again, make sure you communicate your expectations up front and ask for the same in return. A trusting, communicative relationship that goes both ways is often the best way to a wonderful building experience.

Every home and homeowner is different so there's no blanket right answer. Before you pay cash though, you need to consider the following. With interest rates low and home loan interest often tax deductible, the cost to finance is quite possibly less expensive than paying cash for your project. That's right, it can be less expensive to borrow than to pay cash—if you borrow and plan the right way. In fact, paying cash or financing the wrong way may be a BIG mistake.

Let's take a closer look. Suppose two brothers, John and Max are both remodeling their homes—each with an estimated cost of $50,000. John opts to pay cash and thus, pulls $50,000 from a liquid account or possibly from his investments and feels good knowing that he is debt free. In this example, however, John lost the opportunity for his $50,000 to go to work for him. Equally important, he reduced his asset liquidity—creating potential danger in the situation of lost or reduced wages due to job loss, disabling medical problem or other unfortunate, yet not uncommon events.

Instead of paying cash, Max decides to borrow the $50,000 at a rate of 7.75% (APR at 7.839%) for 30 years. His monthly payment is $359 and his annual interest cost starts at $3,875 (reduced each year due to the mortgage amortization). Max also meets a good financial planner and invests his $50,000 into tax deferred investment accounts that are earning 6%. In less than 5 years, Max's investments are earning more than his annual interest cost. Max is reassured knowing that if he ever needed to, he could always liquidate and payoff the mortgage. Or in the case of a corporate downsize or disabling event, Max still has liquidity to help him through the rough time. Not only is Max more liquid than his brother, he is also in a safer financial position with greater earning assets.

Let's go one step farther and look into the future. In 15 years, Max has a loan balance of $38,000, and an investment account worth $122,000! Over the years, Max may also be able to deduct his interest costs helping him save even more on his annual income taxes. To be fair, John could be investing his monthly savings (of not having a mortgage payment) into a similar type of account. The downside is, it will take years before his account builds up similar liquidity and if he isn't diligent, he won't make the investment each month and his investment account will never equal his brother's. I know many people don't like the idea of taking out a loan, especially when they have available cash, but making the wrong decision could very well cost you thousands and even tens of thousands of dollars. While in some cases it may make sense to pay cash, most of the time you’ll be better off financing. To find out what's best for you and your unique set of circumstances, I recommend that you consult with a Certified Mortgage Planner. Through a free consultation, your CMP can help you make a sound financial decision while avoiding a very costly mistake.

A growing number of landscapers are referring to their companies as design build. This means that the same company that designs the project will also install the project. Design build offers a customized approach that allows the project to receive continuous input from the designer while the project is being built. This allows the designer to effectively work through the building process in order to meet the client's expectations.

From the beginning of the design process through the completion of the punch list, the party installing the work is invested in the design, which affects decisions that take place during installation. The end result when properly executed is a beautiful and functional landscape and satisfied clients.

Hard water is caused by the presence of dissolved minerals, like calcium or magnesium, in the water, which is very prevalent throughout Lancaster County. Many locals don't know about the effects of hard water because it is something they have lived with all their lives. You on the other hand, have now seen first hand the residue (also called scale) that hard water can leave behind.

Over time, hard water scale can clog your plumbing, which eventually reduces water pressure. It damages water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines, coffee makers and virtually all appliances through which water passes. The scale leaves spots or streaks on dishes, glassware, faucets and countertops. It also dulls the look of clothing, floors, sinks, tubs and even your hair! Hardness is measured in grains per gallon (gpg). According to the Water Quality Association, ratings of 3.5 gpg are treatable. To put that into perspective, you should know that the average rating for water in Lancaster and surrounding counties is about 15 gpg, although some areas, Lititz for example, can be as high as 21 gpg!

Haller Enterprises most often recommends Lancaster Water Treatment's Electronic Metered Water Softener. The softener is available in several models, which one is determined by the needs of your family and the hardness level of your water. All of these easy-to-operate units deliver softened water that washes brighter, rinses cleaner and feels a whole lot better.

When was the last time you had your water tested? If you have concerns about your water quality or taste, cal lour Service Department to schedule a free water test. Whether you have municipally treated or well water, we can test for iron, pH level, hardness and TDS (total dissolved solids) and propose treatment options.