Archive for the ‘Home Improvement Resource’ Category
Black is “in” for up-to-date interiors
Black is “in” for up-to-date interiors
(NC)—Do you love the way you feel after slipping into your little black dress (LBD)? Black is not only a great shade onyou—it’s also a great shade for your home, say specialists in this field. The stylish finish is especially perfect in the kitchen—and can be seen in everything from kitchen appliances, to hardware… and now even the faucet. Make your kitchen feel just as good as you do in your favourite LBD with the magic of black.
Appliance Accents
Stainless steel appliances exude the aura of a high-end, professional kitchen. But the modern stainless appliance wouldn’t be complete without rich, black accents. From iron-work grates and griddles on stainless stoves, to refrigerators with black ice makers and handles, the
combination of black and stainless conveys professionalism and power.
A Dramatic Finish
The sink is, without a doubt, the most used area in the kitchen. From filling cups to washing dishes, rinsing fruits and vegetables to replenishing Fido’s bowl, the sink is used dozens of times per day. That said, it should be the first place we consider when it comes to décor… not just an afterthought. Since it’s such a central area, why not give your sink a bit of character by adding a dramatic black faucet? Very popular is the Arbor kitchen faucet in a Matte Black finish from Moen. It provides a streamlined appearance that coordinates perfectly with black or stainless/black kitchen appliances and accessories. The collection also features the Moen Reflex system on pullout and pulldown kitchen faucets. Reflex allows for unmatched performance that offers smooth operation, easy movement and secure retraction.
Sophisticated Surfaces
Countertops play a large role in the function of a kitchen, setting the stage for food preparation, the use and display of everything from toasters to tea pots, and activities from surfing the internet to entertaining guests. Black granite countertops can be a great addition to an already sophisticated kitchen. And, the options are far more extensive than basic black, ranging from midnight black to a more mixed shade, with secondary colours of grey, white, or even bolder hues, like sapphire.
Dramatic Radiance
Light fixtures can often set the tone for the entire room, both by the light they give off and the look of the fixture. Create a new appearance for your kitchen and dining area by adding a bold choice in lighting. Chandeliers with vintage-style ironwork, strings of black glass or crystal beads, or even dramatic black prints, can be a beautiful accent to an elegant kitchen—the pièce de résistance to tie the whole room together.
With just a few stylish, dark-hued accents, you can create a kitchen that stands out, instead of simply blending in. More information is available online at www.moen.ca.
www.newscanada.com
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Home improvement projects are more rewarding in summer
Home improvement projects are more rewarding in summer
(NC)—Shake off the winter blues and get ready for nicer weather with home improvement projects. Whether it’s a little tidying up, or a full-on home repair, now is the perfect time to get some work done. And here are some helpful tips to get you started.
A Perfect Patio
With nice weather on the horizon, now is the perfect time to update your deck or patio. While you were inside warm all winter, your patio was getting a beating from the harsh weather. If you have items, such as a bench, table or planters, that have seen better days, consider spray paint as the ideal choice to add new life to these patio favourites. To be sure that you achieve professional-looking and lasting results, choose a quality product. Popular for this reason is Krylon’s DualPaint and Primer. The ‘dual’ feature allows you to prime and paint in one single step – to save you time and ensure a beautiful finish that will last.
Roof Remedies
Although we rarely look up at our roofs and gutters, be sure to give them some attention after the winter. Wind and weather of the colder months can wreak havoc on these overhead areas – and no one wants to spend their summer dealing with inside water damage or worse – mold. Stop the drama before it starts by inspecting the roof and gutters and looking for damage such as holes, loose shingles or leaks.
A Cool Breeze
Don’t wait until it gets too hot – be sure to check your air conditioning as soon as possible to ensure that it’s still running smoothly. Your air conditioner is important because it not only keeps your home cool, it also dehumidifies your house and keeps mold from developing inside the walls.
First, check the filters and replace them if they appear dirty, since a dirty filter can cause damage to your air conditioner by making it work harder than necessary. Turn your air conditioner on for a test run; once it has been running for a while, check the refrigerant levels by feeling the pipe connected to your A/C unit. It should feel cool to the touch– if it doesn’t you may be low on refrigerant and will want to refill before the long, hot days of summer.
Make the Inside Sparkle
Outside projects shouldn’t get all your attention. As you move inside, start off with small cleaning projects so you don’t get overwhelmed. Scrubbing your bathroom, vacuuming your carpets anddusting every inch of the house can take some time – which most of us don’t have. Simple tasks such as cleaning one room a day, clearing off cluttered countertops as you walk into the kitchen, creating an organizing system and donating unused products to charity can get your house ready in no time.
www.newscanada.com
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Clean your pool and spa regularly
Clean your pool and spa regularly
(NC)—For those fortunate enough to have a pool in their backyard, regular maintenance can be a hassle. But people using a swimming pool or spa can get sick if the water isn’t properly sanitized. Good cleaning reduces the number of microorganisms (like bacteria and viruses) to safe levels and prevents algae growth. Even inflatable and kiddie pools need to be kept clean.
Health Canada regulates the pool and spa products used to control microorganisms and algae – and from the website, you can download the guide called “Your Swimming Pool and Spa”. Go to www.healthcanada.gc.ca/pmra for tips on handling and storing pool and spa chemicals. You can also request a copy by calling the Health Canada’s Pest Management Information Service at 1-800-267-6315.
www.newscanada.com
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Vanity sanity
Vanity sanity
(NC)—It’s the room where you start and end your day, so it should be one of the most enjoyable…but admit it, most of the time, your bathroom is not the relaxing retreat you hoped it would be. Whether it’s overrun with towels and toiletries—or is tough to keep clean with smudged mirrors and faucets—today’s bathrooms are in need of some serious updates and organization. Luckily, a few simple tips and tricks can bring style and sanity to your bathroom vanity in no time.
Furniture Fix
Furniture pieces can add style, colour, warmth, and most importantly, a place to store your bathroom necessities out of sight. Even if your bathroom is small, you may still be able to find room for a small shelf or chest. Large bathrooms have the luxury of added storage space offered by a stylish cupboard, shelving unit or armoire.
Fancy Faucets
If you haven’t updated your bathroom fixtures in a while, take a look at some of the excitement in this area. For example, the new Boardwalk bath collection from Moen can take your faucets from drab to fab with their glamorous vintage looks. Moen designers tell us that the Boardwalk centreset and widespread faucets are certified to meet WaterSense criteria, reducing water usage by up to 32 percent. The company says the best part is the new Spot Resist finish that does just what it says—resists fingerprints and water spots. Now you can add style and sanity to the bath since you won’t waste time cleaning.
Organize Odds and Ends
Have your bathroom drawers become a catch-all for hotel samples and unused cosmetics? Then it’s time to sort, purge and organize. Once you’ve decided what you cannot live without, find a spot for everything. Try gathering your bathroom cleaning supplies and store them together in a handled tote under your sink or in an upper cupboard.
Store Items in Style
Don’t have much wall space? Freeing the floor can be simple. Store your items in style by installing racks, towel bars and robe hooks to hang extra towels, clothes or bathrobes. The back of the door is an often overlooked area to install these essentials.
For an updated bathroom, minus the mess, these quick tips will help you keep your sanity and organize your vanity. More information is available online at www.moen.ca.
www.newscanada.com
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What have you remodeled lately?
What have you remodeled lately?
(NC)—As the economy continues to shift, so does the taste of consumers. But, how are Canadians reacting? Are we more cautious in making new purchases or remodeling endeavors; and how does that affect our spending habits?
Kitchen upgrades still appear to be a top priority for homeowners, says Moen, the number one faucet brand in North America. But with the state of the economy, the company was also curious about homeowner choices and future plans when it comes to remodeling. Interested in both why and how Canadians are spending their hard-earned dollars, the recently conducted online survey queried 1,200 homeowners (age 25 and older) across the country about their remodeling activities throughout the past year and their intent to remodel within the next six months.
“While the economy is improving, consumers are still feeling the impact of the recession,” said Jack Suvak, senior director of research and insights at Moen. “Recent studies conducted by Boston Consulting Group and Bensimon Byrne reveal that one-third of Canadians feel financial insecurity, and only six in 10 consumers believe the economy is growing, a very sharp decrease from just three months ago. With this new information, we wanted to uncover how consumers are now prioritizing their home remodeling projects.”
Shifting Mindsets and Spending Power
When it comes to purchasing decisions in the Canadian home, most consumers have experienced a “spend shift,” and are carefully considering spending and weighing needs versus wants. Although 27 percent of homeowners are more optimistic about their future financial improvement, 57 percent of respondents still feel their current financial situation remained unchanged when compared to a year ago, and 27 percent actually feel it’s worse.
“Budgets for entertainment, clothes and dining have already been cut or monitored closely in most households, and 42 percent of consumers plan to reduce non-essential spending throughout 2012,” Suvak said. “It seems even though the recession’s over, there’s still a strong ‘buckle down’ mentality across the country, especially with Gen-Xers (33—45 years old).”
Home Remodeling Priorities
Finding and spending the time and money to complete home remodeling projects may be difficult; but according to the survey, we are still doing both. However, increasing financial stress has caused the number of projects completed to decrease slightly from March 2010. But the reasonswhy homeowners are remodeling remain the same, compared to one year ago; 85 percent remodel to make their homes fit their lifestyles and 77 percent remodel to increase the value of the property.
“Regardless of their motivations, we’re seeing homeowners take a more planned approach to remodeling by refreshing rooms and undertaking small projects, but still achieving impactful results in terms of both style and functionality,” Suvak explained. “Canadians have embraced this ‘Remodel-Lite’ methodology. They’re spending their hard-earned dollars on items used in their daily lives and are making strategic updates.”
More than half of homeowners completed interior painting (54 percent) or gardening/landscaping projects (61 percent) in the last 12 months. Bathroom and kitchen remodeling activity also remained significant, at 25 and 17 percent, respectively with homeowners bringing the “remodel-lite” mindset to both these rooms:
• Top kitchen remodel projects completed included: installing a new faucet (62 percent), painting (60 percent) and new lighting (55 percent).
• In the bath they’re tackling similar projects, like painting (69 percent), installing a new faucet (68 percent), sink (56 percent) and lighting (53 percent).
Future Plans
The future remodeling sentiment of Canadians for major home improvement projects is higher overall when compared to one year ago; however, homeowners plan to invest less money on projects that improve property value and curb appeal.
“The global economic uncertainty might be influencing homeowners’ remodeling budgets,” Suvak points out.
According to the survey, 14 percent of homeowners plan to complete a kitchen remodel soon, with new countertops (62 percent), painting (49 percent) and installing a new faucet (39 percent) on their prominent project to-do list.
The outlook for bathroom projects is also positive, with more than 18 percent planning to remodel within the next six months. Projects topping that list include painting (78 percent), installing a new faucet (62 percent) and adding new lighting (52 percent).
“Canadian homeowners are cautious, yet optimistic, about spending and about their future financial improvement,” Suvak continued. “And our survey confirmed that we still see home remodeling as a key investment strategy. Homeowners are also looking for trusted brands that will increase their projects’ impact on their homes, with long-lasting value and durability. At Moen, we strive to be the brand consumers rely on by developing a wide range of products to fit the needs and lifestyles of all generations.”
More information is available online at www.moen.ca.
www.newscanada.com
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Five renovations to make an even bigger splash with your backyard pool
Five renovations to make an even bigger splash with your backyard pool
(ARA) – If you added a pool to your home in the past few years, or moved into a house with an existing pool, you may wonder what more you can do to enhance the value and enjoyment your pool brings to your home and family. You may even think there’s not much you can do beyond keeping it clean and well maintained.
“Pools are a great investment, and the vast majority of owners say their pool is a great place to entertain,” says Bill Weber, president and CEO of the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP). “Fortunately, some simple upgrades and renovations can help pool owners enjoy their investment even more.”
APSP points to five renovations that can offer homeowners the most satisfaction and value for their investment. The Association suggests homeowners consult with and hire an APSP-certified professional for the best possible results from any of these renovations:
1. Resurfacing – If your in-ground pool is made from concrete, time and use can cause the surface to deteriorate and become rough or even cracked. Resurfacing can restore the beauty and comfort of the pool and extend its functional life. Choose options that provide durability, and consider multiple manufacturers’ products to ensure the best selection. For pools with a vinyl interior, a host of new patterns, available for replacement liners, can transform the appearance of the pool overnight. Fiberglass pool owners also have several resurfacing options. Consult with an APSP-certified professional to determine the best product to make your fiberglass pool look like new.
2. New tile – Just as a kitchen backsplash can transform the overall look of the room, tile can set the tone for how your pool looks. Pool tile options are vast, and changing the tile is one of the most dramatic improvements you can make; it will give you the biggest bang for your buck in terms of appearance.
3. Change the look of the pool deck – The current design trend is to extend the look of interior flooring out into the pool area to create the effect of an outdoor family room. Deck choices range from man-made and natural materials to staining existing concrete. Know that old concrete does not necessarily need to be removed. Often you can fix unsightly cracks and dated concrete decks with a thick overlay and new finish.
4. Add a water feature – Installing a waterfall or fountain is a great way to bring the sound and beauty of moving water to your outdoor environment. Water features also create a strong focal point for the pool. A dramatic spillover or sheer water feature can be dynamic additions to an ordinary pool.
5. Lighting – While safety is a primary function of lights, today’s pool lighting also adds touches of beauty and pizzazz. Standard incandescent and halogen pool lights are functional staples, and fiber optic lighting can add striking color to a nighttime poolscape. Fiber optics are especially great around pools and landscaping because there’s no electrical current to worry about. Long-lasting LED replacement lights can typically be installed with little or no modification to the existing pool. The colored LED lights can create an entirely new mood around your pool while providing energy savings at the same time.
“Of course, there are many more renovations and improvements to consider,” Weber says. “Digital controls make operating pool equipment easier than ever, allowing you to control lighting, heating and cleaning with the touch of the button. And upgrades like adding a salt chlorinator system, solar cover and heater can improve the functionality and efficiency of a pool.”
Keep in mind, you don’t have to do everything at once. Pool renovations can be done over several seasons, allowing you to make the improvements and fund your investment at a pace that works for you. Of course, to ensure you get the most for your money, you’ll want to hire an experienced pool contractor. You can find an APSP certified building or service professional through the organization’s website, www.apsp.org. APSP-certified professionals are required to demonstrate proven knowledge of design, construction and service, follow a strict code of ethics, and must engage in continuing education to maintain their certification.
“Most renovations are quite affordable, and can dramatically change the look of your backyard,” Weber says. “It’s important to ensure your project is performed by a certified professional who can help you turn your vision into reality safely, efficiently and cost-effectively.”
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Upgraded decking materials offer enduring quality and beauty
Upgraded decking materials offer enduring quality and beauty
(ARA) – Tackling your home improvement list this summer likely includes doing some work on your outdoor spaces. If replacing or updating a deck is your focus, it’s wise to look into new products that help ensure your efforts will be enjoyed for many seasons to come.
Eighty-three percent of Americans say low-maintenance qualities are important when considering outdoor home improvement projects, according to a Trex Company survey. Durable, hassle-free composite decks are more popular than ever among time-challenged homeowners because of their low-maintenance qualities. You might not know, however, that composite materials have evolved significantly since their introduction almost two decades ago.
“The newest generation of composite decking offers a superior combination of beauty and performance due to significant advances made in fade and stain resistance,” says Adam Zambanini, vice president of marketing for Trex, the inventor and leading brand of the composite decking category. “Today’s composites look ‘like new’ for much longer – making them the perfect upgrade for both wood deck owners and homeowners who love their existing composite decks.”
Following are four key attributes to look for when purchasing composite decking:
* Superior durability – Spilled food, dropped grill tools and wet planter pots are no match for newer composites like the high-performance Trex Transcend collection. Transcend offers an unprecedented combination of fade, stain and mold resistance thanks to its exclusive protective shell and high-traffic formulation. Regardless of harsh weather conditions or daily wear and tear, Transcend also will not rot, warp or scratch.
* Realistic colors and textures – With high-definition wood grain patterns and rich, saturated colors inspired by the outdoors, today’s composites look more natural than ever before and boast a vibrancy that remains unchanged for years. Color options range from deep earth tones to warm umbers, spicy reds and pristine greys – while some boards offer the distinct streaked look of tropical hardwoods and others provide an appearance with less color variation. When combined with a modular composite railing system that provides similar high performance and long-lasting beauty, composite decking offers endless mix-and-match options for incredible design flexibility to suit the style of any home.
* Ultra-low maintenance – The newest composites retain their beauty for decades with minimal upkeep, meaning you’ll spend more time enjoying – rather than maintaining – your deck this summer and for years to come. In fact, you never need to worry about sanding, staining or painting – just do a simple soap and water cleaning twice a year. Since spills, splashes and other mishaps are inevitable, it’s extremely important to select a composite that guarantees no-fade color – so that your decking remains looking the same for decades as it did on the day it was installed.
* Strong warranties – Lengthy warranties on next generation composites guarantee enduring good looks and offer additional peace-of-mind. In fact, Trex Transcend decking is backed by a 25-year Limited Fade and Stain Warranty, which is unprecedented in the industry and adds another layer of protection to Transcend’s standard 25-year warranty – resulting in the ultimate assurance of lasting beauty.
“Today’s composite decking is proof that sometimes the best can get even better,” says Zambanini. “It combines unprecedented performance and aesthetics – taking the outdoor living experience to a whole new level for homeowners.”
For more information about the latest innovations in outdoor living products – and for other ideas on how to spruce up your outdoor space with deck lighting, furniture, pergolas and more – visit trex.com.
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Considering a pool, spa or hot tub? What you should know before you hire a contractor
Considering a pool, spa or hot tub? What you should know before you hire a contractor
(ARA) – Does your dream backyard include a lush lawn, lovely landscaping and – at the heart of the action – a pool, spa or hot tub? If so, you’re not alone, and this might be your year to turn that dream into reality.
A recent survey by the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) found that 82 percent of homeowners said they would use their backyard more if they had a pool, spa or hot tub. Nearly as many believe that adding one of those features would turn their backyard into an everyday vacation spot. The good news is that the right APSP certified professional can help make that backyard dream achievable and affordable.
“Owning a pool, spa or hot tub is less expensive than you may think,” says Bill Weber, APSP president and CEO. “Advances in technology have improved ease of operation and energy efficiency making the backyard pool, spa and hot tub experience within reach of more homeowners than ever before.”
If you’ve been dreaming of a pool, spa or hot tub, this is your year to make it happen. APSP offers insider tips to use when you call that special contractor to do the job.
* Experience – Experience is more than just the number of years someone’s been in business. Does the contractor you’re considering have experience building pools or installing hot tubs in backyard environments similar to yours? Ask to see samples of past work and look for yards with conditions similar to yours, especially if your home or yard has unique challenges like slopes or drainage issues.
* Cost – Has the contractor considered all factors in the cost estimate? Keep in mind factors that influence price go beyond just the size and shape of the installation; your contractor should also consider the quality of the materials, design, construction and installation time, durability and warranties into your cost estimate.
* Safety – Safety is a key concern for pool, spa and hot tub owners. Is your contractor bonded, insured and versed in all applicable installation/building regulations and standards for your state and community? Does he or she understand any unique safety concerns you may have, such as the presence of a special needs child in the home or a high-traffic corner lot where your pool may be an attractive temptation to neighborhood children?
* Vision – Does your contractor understand your vision for your backyard pool, spa or hot tub and can he or she help make it as cost-effective as possible? Your contractor should be able to advise you on the best location for your new pool, spa or hot tub, and provide you with sketches or even a video of your yard to help you envision the customized finished product.
* Education and professionalism – Does your contractor participate in continuing education to stay abreast of the newest technologies, efficiencies and design trends in the industry?
* Professional certification – Is the contractor you’re considering an APSP certified professional? Contractors who achieve the APSP certification have proven knowledge of design and construction, are committed to continuing education to maintain their certification, and adhere to a stringent code of ethics. To find an APSP certified professional in your area, visit www.APSP.org/memberlocator.
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Top trends to make your windows look hot this summer
Top trends to make your windows look hot this summer
(ARA) – Windows do a lot more than just let the light in and keep the weather out. They’re both key elements in your home’s overall design and in the unique look of each individual room. If you’re redecorating for warm weather, updating your window treatments is a great, cost-effective way to completely change the look of a space.
“People often switch their window treatments when the seasons change, but may only think of replacing heavy winter drapes with some frothy sheers,” says Lauren Foster, a home design consultant with Blinds.com. “Today’s versatile window shades offer ample opportunities to create a truly unique, seasonally appropriate look quickly and easily.”
When warm weather arrives, it’s time to open windows and let the sun shine in. Leaving windows curtain-free, and decorating with window shades instead, allows you to welcome the season into the room and show off the window’s intrinsic beauty. Foster points to the window shade treatment trends that will be hot this spring and summer:
* Prints and patterns – Long gone are the days when window shades were drab solid white or cream. Today, you can find a plethora of colors, patterns and even textures. Websites like Blinds.com stock a huge inventory of options, from Roman shades in passionate purple and energy-efficient cellular shades in celery green, to roller shades in sprightly floral patterns. Brands like Laura Ashley, Bali and Graber literally offer dozens of color, pattern and style combinations, making it possible to find a window shade to complement virtually any design theme.
* Bringing the outdoors in – Wood blinds have been a design staple for decades, and with good reason: they’re durable, beautiful and practical. This year, wood blinds play to the trend of bringing the outdoors in. Woven roller shades that feature bamboo, sisal, grass, jute and straw are versatile enough to create both rustic and sophisticated effects in any room.
* Exterior shades – Sometimes, the inside of windows isn’t the only spot where you could use some shade. Exterior shades will be “in” this season, as homeowners seek to maximize the appeal and design impact of their outdoor living spaces. Exterior shades not only provide much-needed protection from the sun for patios and porches, they can help underscore an outdoor space’s status as an important element of your home’s overall design.
* Cordless – Cordless shades have been available for a while, but their popularity is growing among homeowners and interior designers for a number of reasons. Cord-free blinds and shades create a clean, uncluttered look, allowing the beauty of the shade to shine without visual distraction. The cord-free adjustment mechanism holds blinds and shades securely in position, eliminating the need to constantly adjust them, and making it easier to raise them evenly. Finally, eliminating cords improves safety for children and pets, making cordless shades and blinds a must for children’s bedrooms and play areas.
“The arrival of warm weather is a great time to redecorate, and few updates make it easier to freshen a room than changing shades and blinds,” Foster says.
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The stinky truth about a common pest
The stinky truth about a common pest
(ARA) – Warmer, longer days, flowers blooming, birds chirping and the onset of the garden season are all glorious signs that cold weather is behind us. And, while taking in the sights, sounds and smells of Mother Nature at work is refreshing, the good does bring a few, less-than-ideal issues – a major one being stink bugs. Unfortunately, this year may see the largest population of stink bugs across the U.S. to date thanks to the very mild winter weather pattern most of the country experienced.
Stink bug origin
Stink bugs have not always been a familiar sight to those of us in North America. Originally from Southeast Asia, they are thought to have taken refuge on a container ship that traveled to the U.S. The first population of stink bugs was spotted in Allentown, Pa., in 1998, and the bugs have since spread feverishly with a reported presence in at least 33 states. The majority of states infested with these smelly insects are coastal, but that is quickly changing.
Stink bugs earned their name from the foul odor they omit when they are disturbed, frightened or squashed. Their glands, which are located on the underside of their thorax, create a strong fragrance that repels predators. The most common stink bug is the brown marmorated stink bug, but it is only one of 250 species that can be found in the U.S., and one of 4,700 species worldwide.
Although stink bugs are problematic for various reasons, people primarily find them a nuisance in their homes. Adult stink bugs are mainly interested in mating, so they enter your home looking for a warm place to reproduce. While taking refuge, they can be heard running into things as they fly around clumsily hitting walls, lamps, etc. Simply squishing them will not solve the issue, because their smell acts as a pheromone, and causes others to flock to your home.
Their diet
Stink bugs enjoy feasting on all sorts of foods, from apples to carrots and leaves to cabbage; their diets are hardly picky. Farmers find these insects to be an enemy to their crops, and rightfully so. Some trade groups hold stink bugs responsible for a reported $ 37 million of damage to apple crops in 2010. According to the USDA, an estimated value of $ 21 billion of crops are at risk where stink bugs have been recorded.
Control options
Some people believe they’re unable to control stink bug populations without the use of chemicals and harmful substances. Most chemicals are increasingly ineffective against stink bugs and some traps may not always work. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to lower the risk of stink bugs entering your home, as well as organic methods to treat the stink bug population in your home. Make sure all windows and entryways are sealed tightly and check that fireplaces are closed. It is also beneficial to rake away any debris or edible vegetation from your home’s foundation to avoid attracting unwanted bugs.
Further indoor control of stink bugs can be handled using a trap, like the Victor Ultimate Stink Bug Trap. This more advanced trap uses heat, light and a powerful lure to attract stink bugs without using harmful chemicals. The benefits of a trap like this include a budget friendly price point as well as safety around pets and children.
There are also traps that help control outdoor populations like the Safer Brand Stink Bug Magnet. Through years of engineering and testing, proper pheromones have been discovered to create a powerful and effective lure that attracts and traps stink bugs without exposing gardens to destructive substances. This reusable trap can be hung from a tree to attract adults or set in a garden to attract nymphs.
Using chemicals to control stink bug populations is increasingly frowned upon because it can disrupt your home and can be dangerous to your health. Increasing demand for advanced technology has sparked innovation for products to trap these bugs and diminish their reproductive possibilities. This season, try using an organic approach to your stink bug control and help keep the environment, and your home, safe.
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