Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

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.

2024-05-01T10:23:00

(BPT) – From adding a touch of dimension on ceilings to making a bold statement on accent walls, texture is playing a larger role in home décor. The use of visual texture can help elevate a home’s elegance and style in a way that paint and wallpaper can’t. One of the ways homeowners can do this is with spray texture. Spray texture is an accessible and versatile material that can transform bland walls and ceilings into captivating focal points. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, spray texture also serves a practical purpose by concealing imperfections left behind during drywall finishing, making it an asset for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

What is spray texture?

Spray texture is a material applied to walls or ceilings to create a textured surface. It typically comes as a pre-mixed or ready-to-use substance in pressurized cans or sprayers. There are three common textures found in houses today: Orange Peel, Knockdown and Popcorn. Easily paintable, spray texture can be combined with the latest trends in wall and ceiling colors to help redefine any living space.

Is the popularity of spray texture growing in homes?

While texture is a popular design element all over the U.S., textured walls and ceilings tend to be more prevalent in the southern and particularly western states in the U.S., as textured surfaces complement the desert-inspired aesthetics and rustic decor often found in these regions. In fact, 50% of the spray texture market is in the west, and 29% is in the south.

Why would you use spray texture?

Texture is often added to interior drywall surfaces to add visual interest and aesthetic appeal, but it can also be used as part of the finishing process to hide any drywall imperfections from the installation process. Achieving flawless smooth surfaces can be challenging, and any mistakes made during the drywall finishing process become readily apparent. This is where wall and ceiling texture comes in. For DIY enthusiasts grappling with the intricacies of drywall finishing, texture can be a lifesaver. Handheld spray cans of spray texture, like the ones from DAP, provide a quick and easy way to apply and repair texture.

Where do you use spray texture in the home?

Spray texture can be used in various areas of the home to add visual interest to walls and ceilings. Some common areas where spray texture is applied include accent walls in living rooms, dining rooms or bedrooms to add depth and character to the space. It can also be used to help disguise uneven surfaces and add warmth to basement spaces, making them feel more inviting and comfortable. Overall, spray texture can be used throughout the home to enhance its aesthetic appeal and create a more dynamic and visually appealing environment.

How do you apply spray texture?

When applying spray texture, it’s important to start by choosing the right product for your needs. First, determine what type of texture you want to apply or repair — orange peel, knockdown or popcorn. Most people are familiar with popcorn, but orange peel texture resembles the surface of an orange with small, slightly raised bumps while knockdown texture features a smooth surface with intermittent flattened areas created by knocking down the texture while wet. After choosing the type of texture, look for user-friendly features such as an adjustable nozzle that also provides the ability to select the level of texture, like the line from DAP. When using DAP’s 2in1 spray textures, start by shaking the can for at least one full minute after hearing the marble, unlock the can, then adjust the 60-degree nozzle to the angle you need. Next, twist the nozzle to your desired level of texture whether fine, medium or heavy. Once shaken, you’re ready to spray! All of DAP’s water-based formulas are paint ready in just 30 minutes, and oil-based formulas are paint ready in five.

Best Practices (or Do’s & Don’ts) for Great Texture Results

• Shake can for at least 1 minute after hearing marble. Do not stop shaking just because you can hear the marble, and do not stop shaking even if you think the contents are mixed — the one minute is important!
• Shake the can during use to keep pressure consistency
• Spray at least 12 inches away from the wall — if you spray too close, texture could be runny and texture may not be as defined as desired
• Spray should be applied in short, intermittent bursts with random patterns such as circular sprays, up and down as well as left to right — it’s important to vary the spray motion with a combination of the patterns — do NOT spray in rows and do not spray in a continuous manner
• If using knockdown — be sure putty knife is parallel to the wall and NOT perpendicular — a perpendicular knife will remove the texture

For more information about spray texture and additional DIY tips, visit DAP.com.

2024-05-01T09:01:00

(BPT) – Buying a home may not be the wisest idea in today’s housing market. If you bought or refinanced your home in early 2022, you likely were able to take advantage of a low interest rate and lower your monthly payments. However, if you’re considering selling your current abode and finding your forever home now, the average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage has nearly doubled over the last two years.

You don’t have to compromise your dreams. With some planning, you can turn your house into your forever home without breaking the bank.

For example, you may consider adding a laundry room, bathroom or outdoor kitchen. Not only do these renovations make your home more enjoyable, but they can also add value to your home. According to the National Association of Realtors, homeowners would recover 75% of the cost of a kitchen renovation and 71% of a bathroom renovation in their home’s increased value.

Of course, adding, renovating or moving a kitchen, bathroom or laundry room has its challenges. A common roadblock you may face during remodeling is plumbing limitations.

Plumbing challenges

If you want to add a new bathroom or kitchen, you may find the space doesn’t have below-floor draining. According to Tom McGuire, a seasoned plumbing professional and owner of McGuire Group LLC, adding below-floor drainage for sinks, showers, tubs and toilets can cost a pretty penny.

When adding a laundry room to a 50-year-old home, McGuire estimated that installing new conventional plumbing drainage would require him to rip up and replace his hardwood floors. That process, he estimates, would have cost at least $5,000, plus an additional $6,000 to cut the concrete beneath and run new piping.

Similarly, homeowners must consider the lack of conventional plumbing lines when installing a kitchen, indoors or outdoors. When New Jersey residents Katie and Patrick Comer wanted to add a wet bar with a sink to their finished basement, they found their home’s plumbing limited their options.

Because the basement floor was below the home’s existing sewer line, wastewater from the bar sink would have to be discharged vertically into the home’s plumbing drainage. In order to connect the below-floor line to the closest sewer access, the project would have to be outsourced to a contractor, increasing costs significantly.

DIY couple Amber and Trey Masciarelli encountered similar problems when adding a bathroom to their basement. With cost- and time-savings in mind, the Masciarellis had to decide if the conventional route of breaking through the basement’s concrete floor to install drainage fit into their remodeling plan or if they’d have to give up the project.

An affordable alternative to traditional plumbing

When conventional below-floor plumbing hinders homeowners’ forever home plans, it’s time to consider alternatives. What is the best, most affordable solution to these potential problems? Above-floor plumbing.

Unlike below-floor plumbing, above-floor plumbing pumps waste and water up and out to the nearest sewer line. During McGuire’s remodel project, he chose a Saniflo gray water drain pump to handle drainage from his home’s washing machine. This solution allowed him to avoid cutting up the hardwood floor and concrete and easily install a new line to the local sewer line.

In the Comers’ project, Katie’s father and brother helped the couple with a Saniflo heavy-duty gray water drain pump. The simple, compact solution didn’t take up a lot of space in the basement and solved their drainage problems. “Bringing the vision of my dream basement to life has been a wonderful experience,” said Katie Comer. “Not only is the bar fully functional, but it’s also aesthetically pleasing, and we didn’t have to break the bank to make our vision a reality.”

The Masciarellis were pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to install the Sanibest Pro. They completed the installation in just two days. “When you first look at the unit, it can be intimidating,” explains Amber. “But we watched the online videos, read the instructions and started dry-fitting components. We soon realized how easy it is to install.”

Choose the best products for your dream home renovations

If you plan to use above-floor plumbing to add a kitchen, laundry room or bathroom to your home, pick durable, affordable and reliable products like Saniflo Drain Pumps and Macerators and Grinders.

If you’re planning kitchen and bathroom projects, you’ll want a rugged, affordable and easy-to-install solution like the Saniswift Pro.

With Saniflo’s above-floor plumbing technology, you can decide where a new kitchen or laundry room will go. The Saniswift Pro’s pump design offers quick installation in hard-to-reach, below-sink spaces.

You’re no longer limited to locations where downhill drainage or gravity evacuates waste. The pump also does not need to be near the main waste pipe as it can discharge waste up to 14 feet vertically and/or 140 feet horizontally. Also, the Saniswift Pro is engineered to extend the pump’s overall lifecycle while eliminating unwanted odors. Servicing can be done without disconnecting any piping to the unit.

When tackling a full or half bathroom installation, the heavy-duty Sanibest Pro is an excellent, adaptable solution. The grinder pump combines a rear-discharge toilet with a 1-horsepower pump system usually situated on the floor.

Designed for bathrooms frequently used by visitors and full-time home residents, the system can provide drainage for a complete bathroom, including a toilet, sink, and tub or shower. The wastewater from the toilet drains into the pump unit, which incorporates a powerful clog-fighting grinder system to quickly reduce the incoming effluent before discharging it to a sewer or septic system.

Not only is the Sanibest Pro a great alternative to traditional bathroom plumbing, but it’s also a great replacement for an existing macerator. When Scott Wright was searching for an above-ground grinder pump toilet to replace his loud and inefficient macerator, he knew he needed a heavy-duty model that could handle frequent usage.

Wright eventually settled on the Sanibest Pro and was excited when it solved his noise and flooding issues. “It flushes better, it cleans the bowl better, and it’s not as bulky as the previous unit. The other day, even my son noticed it’s much quieter than the one we had before.”

Don’t let below-ground plumbing hold you back from turning your house into your forever home. To learn more about how above-floor plumbing can help you add a kitchen, bath or laundry room to your current space, visit Saniflo.com.

2024-05-01T08:01:00

(BPT) – Healthy, natural turfgrass is more than just a pleasing addition to your yard and home’s curb appeal. Natural turfgrass is among the most resilient plant materials and provides many benefits that can improve your quality of life and the environment. There are countless turfgrass species and cultivars that are adapted to different climates and uses, and researchers from universities and companies like ScottsMiracle-Gro are driving innovation in this area as the environment and consumer needs continue to shift.

“Natural turfgrass is often misunderstood,” says Dr. Kelly Kopp, Extension Water Conservation and Turfgrass Specialist at Utah State University. “Misconceptions and misinformation have given it a bad reputation in some circles. But the truth is that natural turfgrass has the potential to foster a healthier environment and provides a multitude of benefits to the individual, local communities, and the planet.”

The benefits of natural turfgrass

According to Dr. Kopp, natural turfgrass can be a powerful tool for promoting sustainability. As a groundcover, it prevents soil erosion, slows the flow of stormwater, filters nutrients out of stormwater, and improves soil structure. Like all living plants, it also absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen, trapping carbon underground and reducing atmospheric concentrations. It is also proven to lower atmospheric temperatures, which are increasing in certain areas known as urban heat islands.

Ecosystems also benefit from natural turfgrass. It provides a habitat for wildlife, from bees to birds to bugs, while also supporting the growth of native species of plants.

Growing natural turfgrass helps create a more resilient environment, too. During a storm, the roots stabilize soil, slowing water runoff and preventing erosion. They also act as natural water filters, keeping contaminants from entering local water systems. Dr. Matthew Koch, Director of Biotechnology, Genetics, and Grass Seed at The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, explains that diverse varieties of natural turfgrass species are even more beneficial for rainwater absorption than one species alone. Dr. Koch explains, “Different natural turfgrass species have different root structures. Some are deeper and more extensive, while others are shallower. The diversity of roots helps to improve soil structure which reduces erosion and enhances water absorption.”

Along with the many ecological and environmental benefits, natural turfgrass is also beneficial for mental health and well-being. According to Scotts’ The Benefits of Lawn report, natural grasses and other ornamental plants can reduce noise levels by 20-30%,[1] creating a tranquil environment, which is especially helpful in loud, urban areas, and allows for outdoor play and recreation. Studies have also shown that spending time in natural environments can reduce cortisol levels, which are associated with stress.

Cultivating sponge cities with natural turfgrass

Natural turfgrass has an important role to play in cities, says Dr. Kopp, especially in large urban areas prone to storms.

Many urban areas face challenges when excessive rainfall overwhelms inadequate stormwater management systems. During a heavy storm, rain cannot infiltrate the concrete and asphalt that dominate traditional urban areas, and this causes flooding. Instead of building more impervious surfaces, Dr. Kopp says cities should utilize the water retention and infiltration properties that natural turfgrass provides by increasing its use in green spaces and cultivating “sponge cities.”

The idea behind sponge cities is fairly simple: increase green spaces using natural turfgrass and other plants, replacing impervious concrete and asphalt where possible, to reduce flooding. By increasing green spaces in cities and large urban areas with trees, plants, natural turfgrass and other green infrastructure, the landscape is better equipped to absorb rainfall and filter water efficiently. Similarly to the way grass prevents soil erosion during storms on your lawn, natural turfgrass and other green elements can reduce the burden on stormwater runoff systems and mitigate flooding. In fact, lawns can balance out 100% of runoff from roofs, drives, and streets that are connected to storm sewers and convey stormwater directly to streams or lakes (see Footnote 1).

Combating urban heat islands

Flooding isn’t the only challenge cities face that natural turfgrass can help solve. Because concrete and asphalt materials can’t absorb and release water efficiently, they can’t cool the environment. In fact, these impermeable materials retain a great amount of heat. Combined with high population densities, cities with large impervious areas can easily turn into heat islands.

Urban heat islands occur when cities experience warmer temperatures than nearby rural areas, which tend to be less developed and have more green space. In turn, those green spaces hold less heat and have grasses, trees, shrubs, and other natural features that keep the area cooler than nearby cities. According to Climate Central’s Hot Zones: Urban Heat Islands report, trees and vegetation, alone or in combination with shading, can help reduce peak summer temperatures by 2–9°F (1–5°C) in an urban area.[2]

Adding natural turfgrass can help reduce city temperature, preventing the urban heat island effect. Dr. Kopp explains that when natural turfgrass absorbs water through its roots, it moves through the plant becoming water vapor that is then released into the air through grass leaves, naturally cooling the environment. Whether in parks, greenways, or lawns, more natural turfgrass in urban landscapes can keep the environment cooler and reduce heat-related risks.

Transform your landscape for the better

From promoting sustainability and biodiversity to mitigating flooding and combating urban heat islands, natural turfgrass has much to offer.

Scotts, a leader in lawn care for more than a century and a half, leverages scientific research and qualified experts to educate and inform the public about the benefits of natural turfgrass while continuously innovating its products to adapt to the changing environment and homeowners’ needs.

To learn more about the power of natural turfgrass and how you can transform your landscape for the better, visit Scotts.com.

2024-04-29T12:01:00

(BPT) – Spring is all about renewal — whether that means cleaning and organizing your house, or making improvements that enhance your home’s efficiency and security. Thanks to the latest technological innovations, you can find a variety of ways to improve many of the processes you use daily in your home.

Here’s how technology can make revamping your household systems a breeze.

Not your parents’ vacuum

If you’ve dreamed of automating household chores to free up time for things you love to do, the Eufy Omni Robot Vacuum S1 Pro is the answer. This new robot vacuums, mops and self-cleans, and can be controlled through its app with features like multi-floor mapping, spot cleaning, customized cleaning modes, scheduling and setting no-go zones. The Omni Robot Vacuum S1 Pro combines efficiency with compact design to blend unobtrusively into your home as it cleans with an impressive 8,000 Pa suction power.

But it doesn’t stop there — it also comes with a TurboWash Roller Mop which rotates at a speed of 170 RPM, designed to mimic the action of human scrubbing to remove tough dirt and stains. This TurboWash Roller Mop also cleans the mop as it cleans the floor. This is achieved by harnessing water’s dynamic power by creating a water circulation system that uses air pressure for smart water absorption and drainage — allowing the robot vacuum to efficiently clean the mop with fresh water, while swiftly collecting wastewater in the sewage tank.

Best yet, the unit comes with 3D MatrixEye™ Obstacle Avoidance and Navigation, 3D MatrixEye Depth Perception System and TrueCourse™ Mapping, all helping it deftly maneuver around obstacles, pets and kids as it cleans. Thanks to its Uniclean Station charging base, the robot docks at the Omni Station to automatically empty the dustbin, which can go up to 68 days before needing a bag change. It disposes of wastewater and cleans mopping pads using a built-in Eco-Clean Ozone™ generator, drying them with hot air to inhibit bacterial growth and odors. It then refills with a cleaning solution to be ready for the next use.

This new product is available for pre-order at a discount on Kickstarter, to be available for purchase in May 2024 on eufy.com.

Level up your energy storage capability

If you already have solar panels or are planning to install them, it’s crucial to consider the best way to store the energy your panels generate. The Anker SOLIX X1 Home Energy Storage System is a modular battery wall system that can be expanded from 5 kilowatt-hours (kWh) up to 180 kWh. The average American home uses 899 kWh of energy per month, so 30 kWh is about the amount of energy needed to power a home for one day.

You can store solar energy during the day for nighttime or off-grid use. The system’s InfiniPower™ Thermal Performance allows for a continuous power supply at 1.1 times the rated output, and it’s built to function in extreme heat and cold. The X1 is designed to redefine backup power for homes, bringing you energy savings and freedom — so you’ll be ready for spring and summer storms.

Bedside charging with style

Simplify and streamline charging of multiple devices using a sleek, aesthetically pleasing “tree-like” charging station that allows seamless, and wireless, charging for your iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods, all at once — and significantly faster at up to 15 watts for the latest Qi2 devices. The Anker MagGo Wireless Charging Station (3-in-1 Stand) comes with a 40W USB-C charger, 5 feet USB-C to USB-C cable, welcome guide and a 24-month warranty. Anker’s Proprietary ActiveShield technology monitors temperatures over 3,000,000 times per day to ensure the safest charging. Efficiency never looked so good on your bedside table.

Revamp your security system with cutting-edge cameras

For greater peace of mind, consider upgrading to dual-camera devices from eufy Security, including the world’s first home surveillance mesh powered by local AI. The devices in eufy’s lineup feature both wide-angle and telephoto lenses, enhancing its surveillance capabilities. Wide-angle view helps reduce blind spots and covers more area in a single view, while telephoto viewing lets you see details clearly, including hybrid zoom to see better at a distance. With Dual Viewing you get the best of both worlds, seeing the wide-angle and telephoto feeds together.

The series also introduces eufy Security’s proprietary AI cross-camera tracking, a groundbreaking feature that seamlessly tracks people and events across multiple devices, giving you a single auto-edited video notification. All these features add up to improved safety and security for your property.

Embracing technology can mean making upgrades you may not have known were possible — helping your household run more cleanly, safely and efficiently every day.

2024-04-29T14:01:00

(BPT) – In these economically and environmentally challenging times, the cost of running a home is rising just as swiftly as interest rates. The costs associated with maintaining our homes are growing, driven by increases in energy prices and the escalating expense of non-sustainable building materials. Yet, Earth Month presents an opportunity to examine how we live. Mercury Insurance is assisting homeowners by offering practical ways to reduce their bills and their environmental impact.

“We’re highlighting the crucial role individual choices play in global sustainability,” said Steven Ward, director, strategic planning and ERM at Mercury Insurance. “By adopting eco-friendly home improvements, homeowners can decrease their environmental footprint while enhancing their home’s efficiency and reducing operational costs.”

Mercury Insurance is supporting these initiatives with discounts like the Green Home Discount, rewarding those who achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) or National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) green certifications. Not all discounts are available in all states; please check with your local Mercury agent.

“These certifications are not just plaques on the wall — they signify a home’s reduced greenhouse gas emissions and lower resource consumption, which can also lead to savings on insurance premiums,” Ward explained.

Moreover, the Digital Discount encourages customers to reduce paper waste by opting for digital account management, further lessening the ecological footprint and aligning with modern, sustainable practices.

Homeowners looking to make a substantial impact might consider the following Mercury-recommended improvements:

• Energy-Efficient Appliances: Installing ENERGY STAR-rated appliances can cut energy consumption by up to 30%, lowering energy bills (Source: U.S. Department of Energy).
• Solar Panel Installation: Reducing reliance on fossil fuels through solar energy can decrease electricity bills by 50%-90% (Source: U.S. Department of Energy).
• Water Conservation Measures: Equipping homes with low-flow fixtures and intelligent irrigation systems can save up to 50% in outdoor water usage (Source: Environmental Protection Agency).
• Sustainable Building Materials: Opting for recycled content or responsibly sourced timber can reduce emissions by up to 50% and operational costs by up to 30% (World Green Building Council).

For those interested in embracing these eco-friendly improvements, visit mercuryinsurance.com or speak with a Mercury Insurance agent to discover if these initiatives are accessible in your state and learn more about the potential reductions in your insurance expenses.

2024-04-23T07:01:00

(BPT) – How’s your office working for you? According to a recent survey from organizational solution brand, Mind Reader, 86 percent of people see their workspace as having an impact on their happiness — which makes an organized office at home or at work essential to keeping a positive mood. If you’re setting up your workday in different spots at home throughout the day (18 percent), hunkering down at your dining table (17 percent), or working exclusively from bed (16 percent) it might be time to revamp your workspace to an ergonomic, organized and functional area. Your overall health, well-being, and productivity will thank you.

A comfortable home office not only supports a positive mindset but can allow you to maintain good posture throughout the day, reducing strain on your neck, back, and shoulders and helping you feel your best when powering through a busy day. Positioning your computer correctly, whether you’re using a monitor or a laptop, can reduce eye and arm strain and fatigue, not to mention the extra focus you’ll get when you’re not hunched over your screen all day long. Even something as simple as organizing your office supplies cuts down on wasted time and frustration.

According to the survey from Mind Reader, 83 percent feel more productive if their workspace is organized and — if it were more organized — believe they could increase their productivity by 38 percent. Creating an ergonomic, organized workspace at home or in the office doesn’t have to be complicated or fancy. It’s about finding simple, intuitive solutions that you can use to transform a corner of your home or apartment into a place where you can focus on your work and get the job done in comfort.

Here are a few simple ways to create a comfortable, ergonomic home office.

Desk. Start with the basics. You do not need an enormous mahogany desk suitable for the Oval Office. Just a work surface big enough for your laptop or monitor, or both, where you can comfortably type with your arms at a 90-degree angle. If you prefer a standing desk, you can find models for under $50 that are adjustable and portable.

Chair. A supportive, ergonomic chair is half the battle. You’ll be sitting in it for much of the day, so make it work for you. But, you don’t have to invest hundreds of dollars in a new office chair. You can transform the chair you already have with inexpensive back supports and cushions. Mind Reader, the experts in creating organized, ergonomic home workspaces, offers a few varieties of backrests and cushions, all for under about $40. It’s that affordable and easy.

Screens. Now let’s talk about your screens. To avoid eye strain, you should position your monitor or laptop at eye level. Oftentimes, this means you need a monitor stand. You can make it dual-functioning by finding one that has drawers underneath for paper and pens. That handled, be mindful of how long you stare at that screen. Eye professionals recommend using the 20-20-20 rule — every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This gives your eyes a reset from all of that screen time.

Foot rest. You will be surprised by how much difference an ergonomic foot rest makes when you’re sitting at your desk all day. It helps you maintain correct posture and reduces the strain on your back and legs, alleviating swelling in your ankles and feet. Many models are adjustable and come with massage rollers for an added boost. Again, these don’t have to be expensive. This Mind Reader Foot Rest is under $30, adjustable, and includes those massage rollers.

Cables. All of those tangled cords are just plain messy and disruptive to look at. Wrangle them with a cable tray you can position under your desk, a cable management snake, or ties and clips to keep them under control and out of your line of sight.

Storage. If you’re set up at your kitchen table, where are all of your office supplies? The solution is a wheeled storage cart with drawers. You can pop your office supplies like printer paper, notepads, pens, and whatever else you use into the drawers. Roll it out when you need to use it, and tuck it into the corner when you end your workday.

With these simple tips, you can create a better home workspace that will elevate your productivity and contribute to your health and well-being, too. For more ideas, visit Mind Reader.