One Home Improvement that Will Save You Money

One of a home owner's largest expenses is the cost of heating and air conditioning. We've become accustomed to controlling the temperature inside our homes by the touch of a thermostat button rather than adding or removing a sweater. As the cost of energy rises and we have come to understand the effects our increased energy use has on the environment it is time to rethink that way we deal with the issue of comfort at home.

You can put on a sweater if you like rather than adjusting the thermostat, but this may not save you nearly as much money as making sure your home energy efficient. Nor will it reduce your carbon footprint to the same degree. If your home does not have energy efficient double pane windows or double glazing as it is called in some areas, it is time to seriously consider this home improvement project. It is one that can bring you ongoing and significant savings.

Make sure your home is tightly sealed and prevent your energy dollars from flying out your doors and windows. You will want to do your research on double glazing prices for your home to make sure you get a good product for a good price, but the results will be worth your time and effort. Choose a company that has high standards and a solid reputation and you won't go wrong.

The Downside of a Mild Winter - Insects!

Most of us have been rejoicing at the beautiful, warm winter we experienced this year. In the southeast U.S. we only donned a winter hat and gloves twice! The rest of the time was spent in short sleeves and sweaters. The downside of the warm weather is likely to occur early this spring -- insects and pests!

 "All the comfy temperatures could make for some itchy ankles come summertime, according to Jody L. Gangloff-Kaufmann, an urban entomologist at Cornell University and the New York State Integrated Pest Management Program." from Our Amazing Planet

Getting a jump start and contacting a pest control service now may be your best line of defense. Ordinarily the cold temperatures kill of insects, but this year they more likely increased in numbers. Mosquitoes, ticks and fleas are likely to be out in force and earlier than in previous years. It's a good idea to make sure your pets have early protection as well. This will not only protect your animals from discomfort but help you to avoid a flea infestation which most commonly occurs when pets bring them in from out doors and deposit in the carpets and furniture. They may be protected, but you are not!

So before you put the top down on your convertible, or pull up a lawn chair, take the necessary steps to ward off unwanted insects soon. You will be glad you did!

Husband Football

Guest post of the week by Brittany Booker

I don't know what I was thinking going to satellitetvlincolnne.com to sign up for satellite TV! My husband pretty much doesn't get off the couch now in the evenings! There are so many different sports channels that he can always find at least one game that he will try to convince me that he just has to watch. Meanwhile, I am in the kitchen banging dishes around trying to hint for him to come help me do the dishes! Then when I finally have time to sit down and watch something I want to watch, I have to spend way too much time coaxing him to change the channel to something I want to watch! Why couldn't I have married a man that was not in to sports? I mean aren't there guys out there that actually enjoy watch E News with their wives? I don't know. Maybe I wouldn't even like it if he was into that. I might be like, "man up"! Go watch some football or something! Maybe I just need to buy a good book to read while he watches football.

Early Spring Lawn & Garden - Evaluating Irrigation Needs

Viette's - The Shady Woodland Garden

Spring is on its way and summer is not far behind. Now is the perfect time to begin thinking about your summer watering needs. Perhaps it’s time to add or upgrade your lawn sprinklers. Take a few moments to dig them out and check their condition. Are they still functioning effectively? Planning ahead will save you time and you won’t have to fight the crowds at your local home and garden store if you need to purchase a replacement.

Or, you might want to look into a drip irrigation system and see if it’s a good option for your yard. A drip water system is one of the best ways to target water distribution to prevent overwatering causing weeds, mildew and diseases to flourish. The leaves of the plant stay dry and healthy while the roots receive the water they need.  There is a reason why professionals use drip irrigation and it’s the same reason their plants and grasses always look so healthy and vibrant.

I love getting started early, before the perennials begin to push through the earth. It’s the best time to revamp an existing garden or build a new one. The ground is soft and easy to dig and foliage is at a minimum. Placing sprinklers and drip irrigation systems are much easier to do before things begin to grow. 

Prevent A Winter Insect & Pest Invasion

Most of us think that the summer months are the time we need to worry about insects invading our homes. It is true that many animals and insects go into hibernation or a dormant phase when it is cold. But there are others that seek shelter in warm, protected environments. Pest control during the winter is required to keep ants, roaches and other types of insects from disrupting the peace and tranquility of your home. Chances are that without preventative measures, you will see more of them during the winter months.

• Fill cracks and holes that allow entry for small pests
• Do not leave food out on counters any longer than necessary, especially at night
• Trim shrubs, hedges and trees so that they do not touch the house
• Always store wood away from the foundation of your house as roaches often nest in wood piles
• Treat as recommended by professionals

Rodents such as mice, rats and squirrels do not hibernate but will happily take of residence in your basement, attic or walls. To prevent rodents from obtaining access to your house follow these steps.

• Make sure there are no holes in the exterior of your home where they could gain access. Repair and replace any damaged or rotted wood. 
• Repair any cracks in pipes that may allow entry for a small creature
• Clean gutters and remove debris that would provide nesting material or habitat
• Store bird seed in metal containers
• Treat as recommended by a professional exterminator when necessary