Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2024-05-22T06:01:00

(BPT) – Move over, gray. Green is having its moment this year in bath and kitchen design and décor. Whether dark, light or somewhere in between, these luscious hues are on trend right now, but they evoke a deep sense of nostalgia, optimism, style and panache.

Kohler knows a bit about that. The kitchen and bath fixture giant was the first to bring bold, coordinated color into kitchens and bathrooms in the 1920s. In 1927, Kohler launched precisely matching colors for cast-iron enamel and pottery glaze — meaning toilets, sinks and baths could be coordinated in matching, vibrant hues. Back then, America took a collective gasp when it saw Kohler bathrooms in living color. It set the design world on fire, with this country’s elite clamoring for color, color, color in their kitchens and baths, culminating in an exhibit of a color-coordinated Kohler bathroom at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1929.

Last year, Kohler celebrated its 150th anniversary with a limited-edition Heritage Colors collection, and this year, that collection expands with the addition of Heritage Greens — Fresh Green, with its bright, lush vibes that bring the garden indoors; Teal’s dark, rich, vivid drama; and Aspen Green’s soft, soothing shade. These historic Kohler colors were selected to be revived this year because of their connection to nature, relation to well-being and diverse design sensibilities.

Eager to get started? Here are 5 ideas to green up your kitchens and baths.

Paint! The easiest and least expensive way to add a splash of green into your kitchen and bath is to paint one, or all four, walls in this trending shade. For kitchens, painted cabinets are all the rage. Why not give yours a facelift in green? For baths, accent with green towels and floor mats, and go for a vintage feel by including black or pink in the mix.

Large appliances and fixtures. Go for it! Stainless steel reigned supreme for years, but color is the emerging trend in kitchen appliances now. Major, high-end appliance manufacturers are offering lines in many shades of green, from light and subtle to dark and dramatic. But with this trend, you don’t have to go all in at once. One statement piece, like a deep teal farmhouse sink within a white countertop, is a showstopper.

Smaller kitchen appliances. If you’re not in the market for a major kitchen remodel, you can still add a pop of green with smaller kitchen appliances like toasters, ceramic tea kettles, coffee makers and even tools like can openers, corkscrews and other gadgets. Bonus tip: Don’t forget to accent with kitchen towels, hot pads and even new curtains.

Bathroom fixtures. Hold your breath and imagine your bathroom transformed into a spa, courtesy of vibrant green fixtures. A green clawfoot tub? Yes, you can. A pedestal sink in quiet Aspen Green with a toilet to match? It’s yours. These hues evoke the elegance of the past while wrapping you in the comfort of the present, making your bathroom a true oasis.

Tiles. You don’t need to do a major renovation to add some color to your kitchen’s backsplash or around your tub in the bath. Opt for mosaic tiles in various shades of green, or go with the sleek elegance of just one color.

Color can soothe the spirit, lift a mood, brighten a moment. It can make a small room feel bigger, or turn a dark room into an open, airy space. Kohler’s Fresh Green, Teal and Aspen Green can inspire you to bask in living color.

2024-05-22T01:01:00

(BPT) – As spring and summer approach, it’s time to consider how you’ll use your outdoor spaces this year. Your backyard, patio, front lawn and garden aren’t just for outdoor activities. They are natural living areas that you can use to cook, eat, entertain and relax.

Belgard wants to help you take your outdoor spaces to the next level. From eye-catching driveways to stunning patios and serene landscapes, the company offers an array of products to complement any home. Here are four hardscaping design ideas you can add to your home to extend your living spaces and maximize your time outdoors.

1. Pave the way

Paved pathways are a practical and striking addition to front or back lawns. They guide guests through your outdoor spaces while adding visual interest and definition. Consider incorporating curves and bends in your pathways to create a sense of discovery and intrigue. You can also enhance paved pathways with landscape lighting that illuminates the way during evenings for added safety and ambiance.

In addition to a paved pathway, you can also consider a paver patio. Paver patios create a relaxing outdoor space that you can enjoy after a long day at work or use to entertain friends and family. Also, adding a paver patio to your home can potentially increase your home’s value.

Once you choose what you want to pave, you’ll need to decide on the materials you’ll use. Whether you prefer the modern appeal of concrete pavers or pavers that mimic the rustic look of natural stone, there are various options to suit your style and budget.

Choose a style like Papyrus pavers for an organic textural experience with a touch of modern elegance. Need material with style and installation efficiency? Check out Basalt pavers for a flame-textured stone design engineered to maximize pallet layout. For homeowners seeking a more traditional aesthetic, choose Charlestone pavers reminiscent of early American streets and walkways for a distinctive look of weathered hand-cobbled stone.

2. Retaining walls and freestanding walls

Retaining walls are a multipurpose outdoor structure that serves functional and aesthetic landscaping needs. They can help prevent soil erosion, create terraced levels for planting, and define different zones within your yard.

Retaining walls can also double as seating areas or garden beds. Whether you’re a gardener or regularly host family gatherings, retaining walls can maximize your outdoor living areas for planting and entertaining while adding visual appeal to your environment.

Freestanding walls are most effective when the ground is flat and often used to divide landscapes into distinct areas to enhance the visual appeal of the yard.

Shelton Wall is a small freestanding wall that exudes old world charm with its rustic finish and earth tone blends. You can create intimate outdoor spaces with the privacy offered by this charming and durable wall, great for moderate height retaining walls to add terraces and more usable space in your landscape. Shelton Wall was also featured in Belgard’s recent project with Tan France to help create his dream home in Salt Lake City.

3. Outdoor living spaces

Think of your backyard as an extension of your home and find ways to seamlessly incorporate indoor luxuries in outdoor living spaces. Whether it’s a cozy patio, a spacious deck or a stylish pergola, these structures provide comfortable areas for relaxation and entertainment in nature.

Integrate features like built-in seating, fire pits or outdoor kitchens to enhance functionality and create a welcoming atmosphere that your friends and family can enjoy. Choose durable materials that can withstand the elements and require minimal maintenance. Doing so ensures you can enjoy your outdoor living areas for a long time.

4. Water features

Create a visual focal point, add tranquility and mask noise pollution from nearby streets or neighbors in your outdoor spaces with water features. From elegant fountains to serene ponds, water features create a vibrant and dynamic outdoor ecosystem.

Once you choose a water feature that suits your taste and space, find other elements to complement it. Rocks, plants and lighting enhance the natural beauty of your water feature, creating a harmonious balance with the surrounding landscape.

These are just four hardscape and design ideas you can easily add to your home this spring. To find all the products you need to build your outdoor oasis, visit Belgard.com.

2024-05-13T12:01:00

(BPT) – May is Electrical Safety Month! It’s a great time to remind yourself of the potential dangers associated with electricity and be proactive about electrical safety in and around your home, workplace and community. People tend to take electricity for granted — our lights, appliances, technology, and everything else we plug into a wall outlet should just work, right? — but it’s important to be mindful of safety to prevent electrical accidents, injuries and even fires.

Here’s an electrical safety checklist from the pros at Mr. Electric, a Neighborly company, one of the leading electrical installation and repair providers to homes and businesses nationwide.

Check cords. When was the last time you checked the cords on your lamps, appliances and electronics? The obvious first step is to look for fraying or other damage. But also be mindful of how they’re placed. Are your cords snaking their way under a carpet or furniture? Make sure they have a clear run from the unit to the outlet. And about those outlets…

Check outlets. Overloading is a no-no. Make sure you’re not plugging too many electrical devices into one outlet. But, just as important, and maybe more so, is checking the outlets themselves. Are any loose? Do any of them have discoloration or burn marks? If you see this, call Mr. Electric immediately. That’s a potential sign of electrical danger.

Be mindful of water. Remember to keep countertop appliances away from water sources like sinks and bathtubs. And check the outlets in your kitchen and bathroom to ensure they are Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets, which cut power if there’s a ground fault.

Monitor extension cord use. If you have extension cords crisscrossing your rooms or using extension cords for appliances like window air conditioners that specifically advise against it, it’s time to rethink that.

Unplug appliances. We’re not talking about fridges and washing machines. But the toaster, the coffee grinder or your hairdryer — unplug those when not in use. Not only will it save money on your electricity bill (they draw electricity when plugged in), but it will add a layer of safety, too.

Consider a whole-home surge protector. With storm season in full swing, it’s time to think about protecting your appliances, technology and other devices with a whole-home surge protector. They work in much the same way as power strips (You have your computer plugged into one, right? If not, do it now.) but they protect the whole house and are built to withstand multiple power surges. To find out more or to get one installed, contact Mr. Electric.

Get an electrical home inspection. Not only is this important for the safety of your home and everyone in it, but getting your home’s electrical system checked by a professional will also offer you peace of mind. When Mr. Electric does an electrical home inspection, they thoroughly examine your entire electrical system to ensure that all electrical wires, systems and components meet legal safety standards, using the National Electrical Code (NEC) as their primary guideline. Upon completion of your electrical home inspection, a Mr. Electric inspector will provide a detailed, prioritized checklist, including areas needing immediate attention, recommendations for improvements, and potential upgrade possibilities.

To learn more or schedule a home electrical safety inspection, contact the pros at Mr. Electric. And then exhale, knowing your family is safe from electrical hazards.

2024-05-13T15:01:00

(BPT) – May is National Home Improvement Month! As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, it’s the perfect time to breathe new life into your living space, whether you’re looking to revamp your kitchen, upgrade your landscaping, or tackle that long-overdue bathroom renovation.

To get you started, here are some ideas from the pros at Neighborly’s trusted network of local home service brands, including Mr. Rooter, Mr. Electric, Aire Serv, Mr. Appliance, Mosquito Joe, Precision Garage Door Service and Molly Maid.

Invest in sustainable features. Updating your bathroom? Investing in eco-friendly upgrades like a tankless water heater or water-conserving toilet is good for the environment. It can lead to a higher return on investment when you decide it’s time to move.

Install ceiling fans. Ceiling fans get the air moving in your home, and are a decorative addition to any room. Look for styles that complement your decor, and even add a dramatic flair.

Declutter. Take a look around your bedroom, living room or family room. Too much clutter? Decluttering your home can seem like a daunting task, but Molly Maid says it boils down to this: take note of what the room is supposed to be used for and remove anything that doesn’t pertain to that use. A pro tip to make it even easier: designate bins for items to keep, donate, sell or discard. Just toss the items in the appropriate bin and you’ll be halfway there.

Inspect your dryer for allergens. When you hear the word “allergies,” it’s easy to think of the more common allergens like pollen and dust, but there are several hidden allergens in homes that can cause a host of health issues. Inspect your dryer vents for mold, lint or animal droppings, and call Dryer Vent Wizard to remove dangerous foreign objects. And while you’re at it, organize your laundry room with new shelving or a hanging rod.

Switch to an HVAC zoning system. This allows you to regulate the temperature levels throughout different areas of your home to help keep every nook and cranny comfortable. Aire Serv also helps reduce energy consumption by allowing you to adjust temperatures in your home according to use.

Install kitchen ventilation. Properly ventilating your cooktop can help improve the overall air quality in your home and add a decorative, even dramatic, touch to the space.

Install crown molding. The best way to elevate your living space and make your ceiling appear higher is by installing crown molding. Not only is crown molding classic and timeless, but it also draws the eye upward. This will make the rooms in your home seem bigger than they are.

Replace your garage door. A new garage door can significantly increase your home’s value and curb appeal. Choosing an experienced, highly-rated company like Precision Garage Door Service can save money in the long term and give you peace of mind that your garage door is functioning optimally.

Landscape with retaining walls. Retaining walls help manage a sloping landscape and add character and beauty to your property. Transform your yard and property by using retaining walls to add terraces filled with flowers, herbs, vegetable gardens, or even small fruit trees.

Keep pests at bay. Invest in an outdoor mosquito control service if you’re looking for a powerful solution to handle a mosquito problem for outdoor areas. A company like Mosquito Joe can clear your yard of biting bugs and allow you to enjoy your outdoor spaces again — itch-free!

Paint your front door. This is one of the easiest, least expensive ways to give your home a dramatic pop in curb appeal. A company like Five Star Painting can give your front door and home a new, updated look with a new coat of paint, making it stand out.

Install new windows. Windows can set the tone for your home’s aesthetic and enhance your living space’s comfort. Choosing the right window for your home comes down to thinking about where you live, where the window would go, and your goals. Glass Doctor offers homeowners full-service window repair, replacement and installation.

Need help with any of these projects? Neighborly’s trusted network of local home service brands is dedicated to connecting you with reliable and skilled professionals in your area. When it comes to repairing, maintaining or enhancing your home, Neighborly is here to give your home the makeover it deserves. Visit neighborly.com or download the Neighborly App today to explore their services and connect with a local Neighborly pro.

2024-05-13T06:01:01

(BPT) – Over the past few years, more and more American families have opted for multigenerational living arrangements. A survey by Generations United found that 26% of American adults live in multigenerational households.

With so many people under one roof, it can be hard to make space for everyone to live their lives without stepping on anyone’s toes, literally and figuratively. Luckily, a new trend may make living with family more feasible and economical: accessory dwelling units (ADUs).

What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

ADUs — also known as in-law suites or granny flats — are affordable detached living spaces, usually 600-1,200 square feet, that allow families to live close together. They’re especially useful for supporting aging parents or housing younger adults just starting out in life.

According to the National Association of Home Builders, almost anything can be an ADU with the right setup, such as detached garage-style conversions or those attached to main homes in basements or separate units.

Because ADUs tend to be small compared to other housing alternatives, space is at a premium. ADU owners will need to downsize their possessions to live in one comfortably, especially their appliances.

When you think of household appliances, refrigerators, dishwashers, and laundry machines are probably the first things that come to mind. However, one appliance that you can’t live without and that can take up a considerable amount of space is your water heater.

A conventional tank water heater in a residential area can vary in size. Still, even a 1-2 person household needs at least a 30-gallon tank. As you can imagine, a tank that large takes up a considerable amount of space indoors.

You may be able to install a water heater outdoors, but you may not have enough space on your land to do so. Also, if you live in a colder climate, your water heater must work much harder to heat water, driving up your electricity bill.

Tankless water heaters: A space-saving solution

You don’t have to give up space to have hot water in an ADU. A technology that efficiently heats water with minimal space already exists, and it’s the perfect fit for small dwellings.

Unlike traditional water heaters with large tanks, tankless water heaters save valuable square footage in an ADU. They’re typically wall-hung, requiring zero footprint. In milder climates, tankless water heaters can be mounted outside the home on an exterior wall.

How small are tankless water heaters? Noritz sells a unit that is about the size of a carry-on suitcase. The company also offers wall-mounting brackets that provide easy installation and flexibility in placement. Units can slide from left to right, allowing installers to adjust post-installation while freeing up valuable floor space.

A world of benefits

Space isn’t the only thing you’ll save with a tankless water heater. You’ll also save on energy. Conventional tank water heaters store 30-80 gallons of water and continuously heat it, using energy 24/7 year-round. It would be like leaving the stove’s pilot light on all the time to keep it warm for when you decide to cook.

Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, heat water on demand. Because the heater does not store water, it flash heats water on demand. If you’ve ever used a Keurig to make coffee, then you’ve seen flash heating at work. As soon as the demand for hot water stops, the burners turn off, and no more energy is used.

This “on-demand” heating reduces energy consumption by eliminating standby heat loss, resulting in potential energy savings and lower utility bills in the long run. ADU homeowners can save up to 40% on their utility bills over the life of the tankless unit.

Additionally, local gas and utility rebates help offset the upfront cost of tankless water heaters. These rebates are provided by local governments or utility companies to encourage the adoption of energy-efficient appliances like tankless water heaters. Coupled with the potential savings from on-demand heating, these rebates offer significant utility bill reductions for ADU homeowners.

Convenience is another benefit. A tank water heater can run out of hot water, and when it does, you’ll have to wait until the tank refills and reheats. Meanwhile, tankless water heaters provide a continuous hot water supply at the desired temperature, so you’ll never have to worry about running out. No more arguments between family members about using up all the hot water!

When choosing between tank or tankless, you should also consider durability. A typical tank water heater lasts 10-12 years on average. Over time, mineral sediment builds up at the bottom of the tank, decreasing efficiency as it ages. When a key part breaks, you have to replace the entire unit. And if the tank fails, it does so in a dramatic fashion. Nearly three of every four water heaters fail due to a tank bursting or leaking 30 to 80 gallons of rusty water — depending on tank size — in your finished basement, attic or garage.

When you install or replace a tankless water heater, you’re investing in an appliance built to last a quarter of a century. Tankless water heaters are equipped with technology to prevent sediment buildup and corrosion, while their modular parts are easily replaceable, thereby extending the water heater’s life. If you choose a model like one from the Noritz EZ series, you’ll get the industry’s only 25-year warranty. You can rest easy knowing your ADU will have hot water for years to come.

Whether you’re planning on adding an ADU to your home or have an ADU water heater that needs replacing, consider ditching your tank water heater for tankless technology fit for small dwellings. To learn more about installing or replacing a conventional water heater with a tankless version in your ADU, visit Noritz.com.

2024-05-10T08:01:00

(BPT) – Following historical trends, spring and summer months represent an active time of year for the housing market. For sellers in 2023, homes listed in the first two weeks of June sold for 2.3% more, a $7,700 increase on a typical U.S. home, according to new Zillow data*. This should come as welcomed news for those homeowners who are considering selling their home and have the luxury of timing the market.

But before listing your home — and well in advance of staging photos for online real estate sites — experts suggest evaluating your home’s curb appeal and other cosmetic features that can help attract potential buyers. Consider this: The Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics reports that excellent curb appeal alone can raise your home’s value by as much as 7% and many Realtors will tell you the same.

With the right tools and a bit of creativity, even new DIYers can undertake home improvement projects designed to enhance aesthetic appeal and add value to their living spaces. One such versatile tool that can help you achieve significant upgrades without spending a fortune is the rotary tool. Capable of tackling a wide array of projects with its ability to cut, carve, engrave, polish and beyond, the rotary tool opens a world of creative possibilities for enhancing your home’s aesthetics and functionality. To help homeowners unleash their DIY creativity, Dremel^®, the creator of the high-speed rotary tool, shares five tips and project ideas:

Tidy up flooring. Over time, the grout in between tile can be susceptible to buildup — whether it’s grime, mold or mildew — causing it to look dull or dirty. While cleaning it by hand can be a tedious, time-consuming task, enlisting the help of a solution and tool will have you knocking that item off your to-do list in no time. Start with a bathroom cleanser to clean any grout stains, followed by a rotary tool to quickly and easily remove the dirty or missing old grout. Top it off by regrouting where needed and from there, you’re well on your way to impressing prospective buyers.

Refinish outdoor furniture and fixtures. Can you see rust on your outdoor railings, lawn furniture, mailbox, doorknobs, hinges or other metal outdoor features? Are they discolored, weathered or worn? With the Dremel 8250 Cordless Rotary Tool, you can grind away rust in small, detailed sections, then sand or buff the surface before painting using one of the many compatible Dremel accessories. A key benefit is that the tool is cordless, allowing you to ditch the outlet and move wherever you need to address projects across the yard.

Stand out from the others. A home with custom shelves can be an effective, easy way to add appeal and differentiate your house from the ones around you. Express your creativity while incorporating sleek added storage with a shelf, effectively concealing clutter and optimizing space. Simply grab your favorite rotary tool and get started! From cutting wood to routing, the various rotary attachments on the market make this tool the right one for the job. For project inspiration, see here.

Customize the look of your home. In preparation for selling your new home, the 7350 Cordless Rotary Tool from Dremel is ready to help you elevate your space and infuse some personality. This lightweight tool is a go-to, whether it’s engraving your home address into your wooden mailbox, or adding the address number to the perimeter of your home. As the brand’s lowest priced rotary tool in the corded and cordless line-up, the 7350 is an approachable introductory tool for new and pro users to execute home improvement projects.

Leave them floored. Flooring can be a challenge to maintain, especially if you have little ones or pets running around. Looking to paint or refurbish? Make sure you start with an even base. With a sanding accessory on your rotary tool, you can easily smooth dents and gouges or sand splinters in wood flooring to create a prepared foundation to work off of before painting or sealing and save yourself time and money by avoiding replacing the floors completely.

Increasing your home’s curb and cosmetic appeal doesn’t have to cost a lot of money or require a pro’s help. With the right tools, you can help DIY your way to a higher asking price and a quicker sale! For more ideas about DIY projects, visit Dremel’s project site at https://www.dremel.com/us/en/projects/project-plans.

*Zillow: March 7, 2024; “Homes Listed for Sale in Early June Sell for $7,700 More”

2024-05-06T23:01:00

(BPT) – In the ever-changing landscape of urban and suburban living, mixed-use developments have emerged as an example of smart communities. Blending convenience, sustainability, and a vibrant social experience, these communities are poised to evolve with the way people live and are a smarter option when compared to single-use real estate.

“Building in a community involves thinking about how your project can build up that community to be an extraordinary place people want to visit and stay,” explains Jean Paul Wardy, CEO and founder of CenterCal Properties. “It’s about creating a dynamic environment that is not only appealing when the project launches but remains relevant and compelling over time.”

Wardy notes that creating successful mixed-use properties involves paying attention to details around diversity, engagement, experiences and sustainability.

Ensuring diversity of amenities and multiple points of engagement

Shopping centers are no longer just a collection of stores; rather, they are a collection of experiences. For example, at Totem Lake in Kirkland, Washington, visitors can shop, but they also have an array of dining, entertainment, fitness and social opportunities. The center also offers residential and office space. This concentration of diverse uses places residents, workers and visitors in an attractive, active and energetic environment.

To encourage guests to return time and again, managers of these developments are taking a more active role in engaging guests, instead of leaving tenants to do the heavy lifting. From integrating interactive electronic directories to personalized offers from retailers, these added engagement points help guests feel seen and heard, which builds connections and relationships.

Instilling modern retail experiences that complement digital

E-commerce continues to grow and thrive, and yet brick-and-mortar shops remain critical to the customer experience. “Mixed-use developments serve as a conduit to the modern approach to retail,” says Wardy. “Customers may want the convenience of online ordering, but they also want to see, feel and try products and the ease of stepping into a shop to return or exchange items.”

Developers of smart projects are astute in curating their retail assortments to ensure visitors have access to brands that balance their online and in-store experiences. By making smart property technology and apps available, these managers help their tenants enhance customer experiences.

Incorporating sustainability promotes wellness — for properties and people

Beyond using sustainable materials and methods in the construction process, mixed-use developments can incorporate less obvious measures that promote sustainability. These developments may take a compact approach, which can help preserve land, and some projects integrate green spaces — which typically include vegetation, water features or park-like open areas — to retain natural beauty and add interest to designs. Those green spaces, like the Village Green at Bridgeport Village in Tigard, Oregon, can serve double duty for gatherings, attracting families whose children want to burn off energy or fitness enthusiasts interested in meeting up for a morning yoga session.

By incorporating a host of amenities in one place, mixed-use designs help reduce overall car trips and CO2 emissions, as guests can park once and walk to shops, eateries, salons, theaters and more. Plus, properties that are designed with flexibility in mind may introduce elements that promote a healthier environment as they become practical, from solar panels for capturing energy to housing honeybees for promoting ecosystem biodiversity.

Listening to communities

“Developers must be intentional about every project and consider how its location, features, designs and amenities can contribute to a community’s long-term vitality,” Wardy sums up. “The most successful projects build not only what the community wants and needs now, but they remain open to accommodating the possibilities of the future.”

2024-05-03T14:27:00

(BPT) – Raising backyard chickens has become increasingly popular, and an estimated 10.6 million U.S. households — from city dwellers to rural residents — own poultry. However, many of these backyard bird owners are not aware of the threat avian influenza viruses pose to their flock. These respiratory diseases are easily spread by migratory birds and wild waterfowl populations. The U.S. is now experiencing the largest outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in our country’s history, and this extremely contagious form of the disease is deadly to our domestic birds. The good news is that having the right safety and protective measures in place can help protect backyard chickens and pet birds. Here are four tips all bird owners should know to help defend their flock:

#1: Understand the threat of highly pathogenic avian influenza

Some necessary potty talk here: HPAI can be carried in the poop and slobber of wild birds. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that a gram of poop from a human can contain over 1 trillion germs, so it’s possible one gram of poop from a wild goose can also hold about 1 trillion germs (gross)! These wild waterfowl and migratory birds can carry the disease without showing any symptoms so if they interact with your birds, drink from your outdoor and poultry water source or poop in your backyard, your flock could be at extreme risk for HPAI. That’s why biosecurity is critical for all bird owners, big and small.

Biosecurity refers to everything people do to keep diseases — and the viruses, bacteria and other microorganisms that cause disease — away from birds, property and people. Biosecurity contains two major categories:

• Structural biosecurity: measures used in the physical construction and maintenance of coops, pens, poultry houses, family farms, commercial farms and other facilities.
• Operational biosecurity: practices, procedures, policies that are consistently followed by people.

Easy things like washing hands between different pens and houses, as well as changing clothing and shoes, can help keep pathogen transfer among wild and domestic bird populations to a minimum. Be sure not to move or reuse items that cannot be cleaned and disinfected — such as cardboard egg flats. For extra measure, you could also make sure vehicles, tractors, tools and equipment are cleaned and disinfected, before entering or exiting your flock’s territory. In addition, conduct regular checks of your birds’ housing, feed and water structures for needed repairs. Always make sure to use a clean water source that wild birds cannot drink from.

There are many types of bird breeds that are great to add to your collection. However, adding birds to your flock that are of different ages, species or from unknown sources may cause problems. Only purchase or source poultry from National Poultry Improvement Plan-certified breeders, hatcheries and dealers. Always try to keep new purchases separate from your current flock for at least 30 days until you are sure that the new purchases are healthy. Be careful of mixing geese and ducks with your chickens and turkeys, as waterfowl can sometimes carry diseases that will severely affect chickens and turkeys.

Every backyard flock owner plays a vital role in keeping our nation’s poultry healthy. By using proper biosecurity practices and staying vigilant, every owner can do their part to defend our flocks against deadly disease. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has many resources available for both commercial poultry producers and backyard bird owners through their Defend the Flock Program, including links to toolkits containing biosecurity checklists, videos and more.

2024-05-03T08:01:00

(BPT) – You’ve just bought your new house — congratulations! As you start moving in, this is the perfect time to set up all the smart home products that can benefit your family’s safety, security and comfort. Getting these products in place can help you have greater peace of mind as you get used to your new home and neighborhood. And even if you’ve lived in the same home for years, these smart home upgrades are well worth the effort.

Here are ways you can optimize technology to make your home feel more safe and secure.

Replace standard locks with smart locks

Unless you’re moving into a new build, one of the first things you’ll want to do is change all your door locks. Consider installing smart locks instead, which allow you to create and control passcodes and remotely control locks with an app — so you won’t ever worry that you forgot to lock the door on the way out, or that family members will be locked out if they misplace their key.

Get peace of mind deliveries are safe

To help protect against porch pirates and weather damage, Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery is a convenient, secure way to receive Amazon packages. Plus, it’s exclusive for Prime members. In-Garage Delivery lets you receive Amazon packages inside your garage, so anything you’re buying for your new home can be safely delivered, whether you’re home or away. The service works with the majority of smart garages, so you may already have what you need to get started. If not, it’s really simple to set up, and you can even do it before you move in. Then, just select In-Garage Delivery at checkout. Amazon Key will take care of the rest.

Monitor your home while you’re away

You can set up motion alerts to notify you when there’s any activity around your home with a Ring Video Doorbell or outdoor security cameras. Ring devices are controlled through the Ring app, where you can see what’s happening live on the other end of your Ring device and choose to use Two-Way Talk as needed to chat with someone on your property.

Add outdoor lighting for a safer property

Outdoor lighting adds more than just aesthetics to your home — installing motion-activated smart lighting can help light up dark areas or blind spots, deterring unwanted visitors and making your home more secure. With Ring’s Smart Lighting and a Ring Bridge, you can control the lights from the Ring app and link them to your Ring doorbells and cameras so if one of your smart lights detects motion, it can trigger your camera or doorbell to record.

Test and upgrade smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

The U.S. Fire Administration recommends testing smoke detectors at least once a month and replacing batteries once or twice a year, so make sure to set calendar reminders. For added peace of mind, consider replacing standard detectors with Wi-Fi enabled smart smoke detectors, which give you real-time notifications to your smartphone if smoke or carbon monoxide is detected — which is especially important if you’re not at home.

Increase comfort and save money with a smart thermostat

Smart thermostats make it far easier not only to program times when you want to reduce heat or cooling (such as when nobody’s home), but they can even sense when your house is empty to switch to energy-saving mode. This can save energy and money over time. You can also adjust temperatures right from your smartphone, so you’ll never forget to adjust the thermostat when you head out on vacation — and you can make changes as needed wherever you are. Even better, you can start warming up (or cooling down) the house when you’re on your way home again, so you’ll be comfortable the moment you arrive.

Putting these smart features in place before or shortly after you move into your new house will help you feel confident that you and your family will be able to relax and enjoy your new environment, so everyone will feel right at home.

2024-05-02T16:01:02

(BPT) – With rising energy costs and an increasing awareness of homeowners’ environmental impact, creating a greener home isn’t just a trend — it’s a responsible choice for both your wallet and the earth. In fact, homeowners who implemented energy-saving systems and products in their home saved 8%-16% on heating and cooling bills through high use of the scheduling feature on the Honeywell Home T5 and T6 thermostats in a 2019 study in Indiana and Ohio. Whether you’re motivated by reducing your carbon footprint or simply looking to cut down on utility bills, transforming your home into a “green” home may be more achievable than you think with just a few helpful tips.

Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

One of the easiest and most effective ways to save energy is by installing a smart thermostat. With its programmable features, thermostats like the Honeywell Home T9 Smart Thermostat allow you to easily set and adjust the temperature during different parts of the day, decreasing the need for constant heating and cooling when you aren’t at home. The U.S. Department of Energy explains that by simply turning your thermostat down 7°-10°F from its normal setting for eight hours a day, you can save as much as 10% on heating and cooling costs a year. Depending on where they live, users can also connect their T9 Smart Thermostat to their utility company to reduce energy use when needed and earn rewards, maximizing energy savings without sacrificing comfort.

Add Insulation

By acting as a barrier against heat transfer and helping to seal cracks, insulation helps optimize heating or cooling investment, leading to lower energy consumption and decreased energy bills. You can supplement existing insulation or add new layers to many areas of your home, but be sure to research what the right type, quality and depth is first. If needed, you can rent an insulation blower from your local hardware store or reach out to your local contractor for help.

Detect and Address Water Leaks

While often overlooked, water leaks can also waste resources. Leaky faucets, pipes or appliances waste heated and treated water, and large leaks can cost homeowners tens of thousands of dollars in repairs and water usage. Regularly inspect your plumbing fixtures and appliances for signs of leaks, such as damp spots, mold growth or unusually high water bills. Consider utilizing smart leak detection devices, such as the First Alert L1 WiFi Water Leak and Freeze Detector, that monitor temperatures and can alert you of leaks in real time via your smartphone. Adding one of these detectors may also save you money on homeowner’s insurance as insurance providers value proactive and protective measures.

Prioritize Air Quality with Proper Filtration

Improving indoor air quality can also contribute to energy efficiency. Invest in high-quality air filters for your HVAC system to trap dust, pollen and other airborne particles effectively. And don’t forget that regular maintenance of your HVAC system ensures optimal airflow and energy performance. For example, replacing a clogged, dirty air filter with a clean one can lower an air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5%-15%. Cleaner, fresher air not only enhances current comfort but also reduces the strain on your heating and cooling equipment, prolonging its lifespan and saving cost and energy in the long run.

Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances

When it comes to household appliances, opt for energy-efficient models that bear the ENERGY STAR^® label. These appliances meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and can significantly reduce your energy consumption. From refrigerators and washing machines to thermostats and water heaters, there’s a wide range of ENERGY STAR-certified appliances available to suit your needs.

To learn more about how you can save energy in your home, visit Honeywellhome.com.