Sign of the design times for kitchens: Designing a kitchen that fits your style preferences

Keep an eye on trends

Traditional? Transitional? Contemporary? The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) recently surveyed more than 350 designers to identify the top trends and styles they tend to incorporate into their kitchen and bath designs. According to this survey, transitional style, a combination of traditional and contemporary, is now the most popular style in both kitchens and bathrooms.

This marks the first time (since the NKBA began tracking annual design trends) that "traditional" is no longer the most common type of design. The survey also showed that contemporary is the next most common style - with shaker, arts and crafts and cottage also following as frequently used styles.

Richer, warmer and darker wood species and finishes are dominating in popularity. "Hickory cabinets are catching on, as the dramatic grain variation is ideal for creating a rustic look," says Sarah Reep, director of designer relations and education for QualityCabinets. "Despite the growing trends, maple and cherry are still homeowner favorites for cabinetry."

Determine your style

While it's good to be aware of the trends, keep in mind that you are the one who will have to live with this kitchen. Incorporate design elements that you and your family will enjoy for years to come. If you don't plan to stay long, consider resale value and how kitchen design might help or hurt it.

Determining your personal style is the most crucial step before the kitchen remodeling process can begin (after budgeting, of course). Take pictures of other kitchens that you like and tear out pages from magazines. Scan home and design blogs to get ideas. Apartment Therapy recently revealed the best home design blogs with its award (as nominated and voted by readers), The Homies. These blogs are a good place to start.

Several websites offer great resources and inspiration galleries for homeowners trying to plan their kitchens. QualityCabinets has an Idea Gallery that showcases a wide range of options, from more formal and traditional to sleek and contemporary. Pinterest is another great place to collect home and design ideas and save them to later share with your designer.

Work with a professional designer

While many people think they know their desired kitchen style, many have a difficult time articulating and identifying exactly what they want. A professional designer can help you design a kitchen that is comprehensive and consistent in design style.

The difficult task is designing a room that comes together as a whole versus bits and pieces. This is where a designer comes in and can turn a nice-looking kitchen into one that is both stunning and functional. Designers can also help you add a personal flair through the accessories, organizational features, hardware and finishes you choose.

For more ideas for finding your design style, visit www.qualitycabinets.com.

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Why air conditioning costs are heating up

R-22 has been the refrigerant of choice for residential heat pump and air conditioning systems for more than four decades, but it has been identified as having a negative environmental impact, including contributing to ozone depletion. Under EPA regulations, R-22 is being phased out, with production totally prohibited soon.



This has added new considerations for homeowners who are considering whether to repair or replace an air conditioning unit. For instance, some refrigerant manufacturers have begun selling cheaper alternatives to R-22, often referred to as "drop-in" replacement refrigerants. But alternatives are cheaper only in the short run.



"Lennox, one of the leading air conditioning manufacturers, has conducted research that shows these cheaper alternate refrigerants are not compatible with the lubricating oil used in R-22 units," says Dave Moody, director of marketing for Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. "Recharging older air conditioners with these alternative refrigerants may actually damage the system and void your manufacturer's warranty. As a result, we've instructed our 2,500 technicians to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and use only R-22 when they recharge R-22 systems."



Moody also points out that reclaimed and recycled R-22 is expected to be available to repair existing systems after production ceases, but as the supply of new R-22 refrigerant continues to be reduced, costs of both new and recycled R-22 refrigerant will increase significantly.



All new air conditioning systems now use a more environmentally friendly refrigerant, R410A.-These newer systems offer many benefits, including greater energy efficiency, longer warranty periods and quieter operation, and may prove to be the wiser investment when homeowners are faced with repairing an older system that uses R-22 refrigerant. The Service Experts website at www.serviceexperts.com offers an interactive tool that allows homeowners to see how much they can save on utility bills by year based on the energy-efficiency rating of different new systems.



"There is no one-size-fits-all answer about whether to repair or replace your R-22 AC," says Moody. "It really does depend on the individual family, their home, their lifestyle and their budget. Service Experts technicians are trained to spend considerable time working through all these factors with our customers and help them make the most informed decision, and we're happy to answer homeowner questions on this topic."

How to choose a chainsaw

Millions of chainsaws are sold every year and - although not every purchase is punctuated with a Tim "The Tool Man" Taylor grunt - it is clear Canadian men (and some women) still love their chainsaws.



So is Tim right? Is it always just about "more power"?

Not according to Edward Andria from Husqvarna, a company that is reported to be the world's largest producer of outdoor power products: "There are many factors to consider when buying a chainsaw, but the first question you should ask is: What kind of work do I need the saw for? Models range from full-time professional saws to leisure or hobby saws and you want to make sure you get the right one."

Here are few more tips to help you choose the right saw:

• Unless you are very experienced with a chainsaw, go for a lighter saw which will be much easier to handle.

• Ergonomic engineering and design, such as low vibration levels in the handles and a slim and well-balanced saw body, are welcome features, even if you only use the saw part-time. Good ergonomics can be just as important as low weight.

• Efficient kickback protection is a requirement in most countries. Also pay attention to small details. For example, how easy it is to replace a simple part like a chain catcher stud? Do you have easy access to controls?

• Is the saw easy to maintain and service? Good access to the air filter and spark plug, and easy chain tensioning save time and effort.

• Look for approved protective equipment like safety trousers, safety boots, helmets with visors, hearing protection, and gloves.

• And don't forget, your saw will appreciate regular service by a qualified professional, so look to purchase one from a dealer that can service it.

More information is available online at Husqvarna.ca.

Washing your car at home can do more harm than good

A study by the city of Federal Way, Wash., found that residential car washing led to numerous pollutants being released each year into the city's storm sewer system, including 190 gallons of gasoline, diesel and motor oil; 400 pounds of phosphorus and nitrogen; and 60 pounds of ammonia.



These numbers are startling for a community of just 62,000 passenger cars. With more than 300 million registered passenger vehicles in North America, the pollution is sizable. So is it possible to keep your vehicle clean and protect the environment at the same time?



You may be surprised to learn that professional car washes are typically a much greener option for washing vehicles than washing your car in the driveway at home. Washing at home with a garden hose can use more than 60 gallons in as little as five minutes, but most professional car washes treat and recycle water, virtually eliminating waste. The average homeowner uses 116 gallons of water to wash a car, according to the Mid-America Regional Council, and most commercial car washes use 60 percent less water for the entire process than a homeowner uses just to rinse the car.



WaterSavers professional car washes use only 40 gallons or less of fresh water per car wash - that's less than the typical home washing machine uses per load. The process cleans and re-uses the water for future car washes, or it undergoes treatment prior to returning it clean to the environment. For more information and to find a certified location near you, visit WashWithWaterSavers.com.



Another question eco-conscious car owners ask is how often they should wash their vehicles. While this is a simple question, there is no easy answer. How frequently you drive, the type of environment you drive in, and what the manufacturer recommends, are all factors to consider.



As a general rule, vehicles should be washed when the paint starts looking dirty from two car lengths away, according to J.D. Power & Associates, or immediately if contaminants like bird droppings, winter salt or tar are present.



Keep in mind many professional car washes offer discount days during the week, special pricing if you're purchasing gasoline also, or bulk packages that allow you to buy multiple washes for a highly reduced rate.



This summer, instead of grabbing a bucket and hose, take your car to a local professional car wash to help save water, protect aquatic life and preserve the environment.

Mix and match trend revolutionizing deck design

When it comes to fashion faux pas, the only thing worse than clashing patterns is overly matching every item. Mixing and matching creates exciting contrast - and not just when you dress yourself, but also when you "dress up" your home. The trend toward mixing colors and materials has made its way outdoors, with enterprising homeowners getting creative with their decks.



When it comes to building a deck, or refurbishing an existing one, options abound. Design choices beyond simple considerations such as wood or composite, square or rectangular, open the door to creative outdoor environments that are truly unique and reflect your personal style.



The deck design experts at Deckorators point to several popular looks emerging in the mix-and-match trend:



Mixed materials



Retire that old rule that says all the materials you use for your deck must match. Your railing no longer needs to be made from the same material as your decking. Pairing wooden deck planks stained in a natural hue with a metallic railing and decorative balusters creates a fresh, exciting look. Dress up basic wood and vinyl deck posts with fiber-reinforced concrete postcovers that provide the look and feel of real stacked stone.



An inset of deck stones in the floor creates contrast and interest - as well as a functional, durable spot for outdoor kitchens, grilling areas and raised fire pits.-



Pairing metal or glass balusters with a wood or composite railing is another striking way to add personality to a deck. The combination is the perfect marriage of rustic and modern, incorporating the classic natural appeal of wood with the modern flair of metal and glass.



Playing with color



Metal balusters also allow you to experiment with color. Available in finishes that mimic popular metals such as bronze, copper and stainless steel, as well as basic black or white, metal balusters also resist insect damage and rot - making them practical as well as pretty.



There's also no rule that says all your balusters have to match. For even more personality, try mixing balusters: alternate different styles of glass or metal, or mix regular metal or glass balusters with lighted balusters. Using energy-efficient LED technology, lighted balusters connect to a standard 12-volt power source to create a soft glow.



Exploring accessories



Accessories like post caps and planters are great ways to enhance a deck's visual appeal and usability. While metal and glass post caps are traditionally thought of as great complements for metal and glass balusters, they can also add pops of color to a monochrome deck. Available in a variety of colors such as copper, pewter, black and white, metal post caps also coordinate well with wood and composite deck materials.



Or, for an even more colorful accent, consider glass post caps. Deckorators offers a line of glass post caps that mimic timeless Tiffany styles. They are also available in basic colors and styles, as well as illuminated versions that coordinate well with regular or lighted balusters.



While you're experimenting with accessories, don't overlook the opportunity to mix things up with a variety of sizes, shapes, colors and materials for built-in planters and seating.



Need help visualizing how your deck might look all dolled up using the mix-and-match trend? Deckorators offers a simple online tool, the Deck Visualizer, which allows you to mix different decking, balusters and post caps and see in advance how your personalized outdoor space might look. Log on to www.deckorators.com to learn more.

The buzz on battling flying, stinging summer bugs

Summer picnic season is upon us, and that means it is time to grab the sunglasses, cooler and sunscreen, and head outdoors. But people are not the only ones who want to enjoy the warm weather. Flying, stinging insects like bees and wasps are abuzz, and make their presence known when collecting pollen and nectar as the weather warms.



"In the proper environment, bees, wasps and yellow jackets can be very beneficial," says Ron Harrison, entomologist and Orkin technical services director. "In addition to pollinating flowers and plants, they eat grubs, flies and other harmful pests. It is when they are aggravated or feel threatened that they can be a bigger problem."

There are more than 20,000 known bee species around the world. Their stings can be painful and may cause allergic reactions. About 2 million Americans are allergic to insect stings, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, and many of them are at risk of life-threatening reactions.

Carpenter bees are fairly large and are often mistaken for bumble bees. They can cause significant damage to decks, siding, landscape timbers and even lawn furniture, but males - even though they are aggressive - do not have stingers, and the females rarely sting. Females bore holes in wood to deposit their eggs.

Yellow jackets can sting multiple times and aggressively protect their colonies, but otherwise, are not quick to sting. They commonly nest on or near the ground under porches or steps, in sidewalk cracks, around railroad ties, or at the base of trees. Yellow jackets are also scavengers, so they can be found near garbage cans and picnics.

Paper wasps look similar to yellow jackets in that they are narrow and dark brown with black wings and yellow markings. Paper wasp nests are made from small wood or plant fibers combined with saliva and appear to be made from paper. Their nests - frequently found in sheltered areas like tree branches and eaves of houses - include numerous compartments where they lay their eggs and rear their young.

Be sure to contact a pest professional like Orkin before attempting to address a bee infestation or hive. Harrison offers the following tips to help avoid flying and stinging pests:

* Use a weed trimmer to thin vegetation near your home, as thick vegetation provides a place for both bees and wasps to nest.

* Don't leave food or drink containers uncovered for long periods of time. Pests are attracted to human food sources and stinging pests can often enter cans unseen, so it is best to pour your drink into a glass.

* Fit screens and tighten seals properly on doors and windows to prevent pests from entering into your home.

* For those at risk of an allergic reaction, apply an EPA-registered insect repellent on clothing and exposed skin to deter bites and stings.