atlanta home
®
MAY 2016
A T L A N T A H O M E I M P R O V E M E N T. C O M
MPROVEMENT S M A R T
H O M E
I M P R O V E M E N T
S T A R T S
H E R E
On the Fence Surround Your Yard with Style and Security p. 32
Buying Guide: A New Spin on Washers & Dryers p. 47
Atlanta Home Improvement Magazine’s Office Gets a Cool, New Makeover p. 40
Good Night, Sleep Tight! Are the Sheets Just Right? p. 28
Over the Top
Your Roof Caps Off Your Home Design p. 18 P LU S! Hundreds of resources to help you with your home improvement projects p. 56
Buying Guide:
Exterior Doors Make a Great First Impression with Door Style and Design p. 51 This month’s cover is presented by: Vision Stairways & Millwork
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atlanta home
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MPROVEMENT S M A R T
H O M E
I M P R O V E M E N T
S T A R T S
H E R E
Southern Classic Floors & More
PRESIDENT/FOUNDER
We have it all for you…The best prices guaranteed
PUBLISHER
Major Brand Quality Floors | Sales Installation & Repairs FREE In-Home/Phone Estimates
Sherri Adair
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Katherine Michalak EDITORIAL/SOCIAL MEDIA ASSISTANT
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DIRECTOR OF CONTENT MARKETING
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WE WILL BEAT ANY OF OUR COMPETITORS PRICES!
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For print, email and digital advertising information contact us at: 80 West Wieuca Road, Suite 115 Atlanta, GA 30342 (404) 303-9333 x 15 FAX (404) 303-0030 info@homeimprovementmag.com
AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Atlanta Home Improvement magazine uses soy-based ink and is printed on 100 percent recyclable paper. Our print partner, Newpoint Media Group, recycles all excess paper, printing plates and any other recyclable materials used in the printing process.
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Replace old, worn carpet with soft and plush new carpet. Inquiries and submissions regarding advertising and editorial should be directed to the address above. Atlanta Home Improvement does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does Publisher assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Readers are encouraged to notify Publisher when they suspect false advertising. Atlanta Home Improvement reserves the right to edit editorial for clarity and space availability. No content i.e. articles, graphics, designs and information (any and all) in this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from Publisher.
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www.southernclassicflooring.com ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
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contents Photography by Brian Reeves, Perfect Day Photos.
Atlanta Home Improvement Office Gets a Makeover Photos courtesy of (top to bottom) Glazer Design & Construction. Photography by Nelson Salivia, Fotographik Arts; Peacock Alley.
18
6
features 18
Over the Top Your Roof Caps Off Your Home Design
28
Good Night, Sleep Tight! Are the Sheets Just Right?
32
On the Fence Surround Your Yard with Style and Security
47
Buying Guide A New Spin on Washers & Dryers
28
ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
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40
51
Buying Guide Opening Up Exterior Doors
ON THE COVER: This beautiful front door is a Katherine Double 5/0 x 8/0, Mahogany wood, seedy glass, 12 lite, with raised bottom panels and a custom arched transom. Built and installed by Vision Stairways and Millwork, LLC., 678-701-5520, VisionStairwaysAndMillwork.com AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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MAKE YOUR MOTHER’S DAY STYLISH! NORTH CAROLINA PRICES...WITHOUT THE DRIVE
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$397
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1240 Old Chattahoochee Ave. Atlanta, GA
Hours MON/SAT 10am to 5pm
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contents
S
NEW MIDTOWN SHOWROOM
15
Photo courte
sy of Atlanta
A H M S I H Z S D D W
Botanical Ga
rden.
54 in every issue 10 Editor’s Letter
Happy Landing in Atlanta
15 Home Front
Expert Tips, News and Happenings
54 The Payoff – Real Estate ROI
atlanta home
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MPROVEMENT S M A R T H O M E I M P R O V E M E N T S TA R T S H E R E
“Best of 2015” Winner
BEST SHOWER ENCLOSURE COMPANY
Ask about SHOWERGUARD Glass with LIFETIME WARRANTY against Corrosion from Soap Scum and Hard Water
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Five star reviews on kudzu.com 8
ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
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O A
W M E L F O
Frameless Shower Doors Antique Mirrors Cabinet Door Glass Glass Shelves and Tops Color Glass and Backsplashes
Photo courtesy of Home ReBuilders
W
Use Outdoor Space to Wow and Woo Buyers
56 Resource Finder
Find Help with Your Home-Improvement Projects
PLU
ED
What insiders want you to know
27 Top Ten Flooring Mistakes to Avoid (Part 1 of 3) By Enhance Floors & More
Smart home improvement starts here. ➚
Visit our website at AtlantaHomeImprovement.com AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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WHY CHOOSE US? Over 1000 Five Star Reviews All Employees Are Background Checked & Drug Tested We Service All Brands, ON KUDZU & GOOGLE+ Makes & Models 24/7 SERVICE EPA & NATE Certified Licensed, Insured & Bonded Free In-Home Consultation On The Spot Financing Available!
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Beautiful Moments LET THEM IN
Happy Landing in Atlanta I’m fairly new to the South—
Photography by Brian Reeves, Perfect Day Photos.
LIFE IS FULL OF
©2015 Marvin Windows and Doors. All rights reserved. ®Registered trademark of Marvin Windows and Doors.
editor’sletter and very new to Atlanta. I trace my roots back to California, where I raised my kids with my husband and worked as a freelance writer and landscape designer. I came to Atlanta to join the team here at Atlanta Home Improvement and I couldn’t be happier. This jolly group of talented writers, designers and account executives are devoted to all things renovation—inside and out. That’s right up my alley. I found that one of the pitfalls of working from home, like I used to do, was that it can be kind of lonely. Imagine my excitement to land in a place where water-cooler gossip involves the latest trend in roof lines, innovations in washers and dryers or secrets to choosing a new exterior door. Collaborating on articles about these subjects is my idea of fun, and I hope it shows (see our “Top It Off,” p. 18; “Buying Guide: Washers & Dryers,” p. 47; and “Buying Guide: Exterior Doors,” p. 51). Another pleasant surprise in my new job was having the chance to attend an Urban Agriculture Council meeting and talk given by horticulturist Dr. Allan Armitage. My colleagues teased me as I headed to the meeting, laughing at my enthusiasm about hanging out with fellow plant geeks and spouting Latin botanical names over dinner. They were right—my favorite Armitage anecdotes involved tracing the roots behind plants’ common names. Did you know that the
There are times that you cherish; they deserve the perfect frame. Marvin windows and doors elevate every space to enhance the lives within. Made-to-order, with innovative design and industry-leading energy efficiency.
cheerful little spring-bloomer called a “Pink” was named not for its color, but because its serrated petals look like fabric cut with pinking shears? This month, I’d like to hear from our readers about Atlanta’s top-notch home-improvement professionals. Beginning in May, you can nominate them for our Best of 2016 contest! We’ll post the nominees on Facebook so you can vote for your favorites.
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770-829-0878
WINDOWS | DOORS | SPECIALTY HARDWARE | MILLWORK Alpharetta | Buckhead | Blue Ridge
avimarvin.com
New locations in Columbus, GA and Franklin, NC
Happy Home-Improving!
Stacy Moser Managing Editor
We Want To Hear From YOU!
Best of 2016 Contest
atlanta home
®
MPROVEMENT S M A R T H O M E I M P R O V E M E N T S TA R T S H E R E
“Best of 2016” Winner
Nominations: Beginning in May Go to
AtlantaHomeImprovement.com 10
AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
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Photography by Brain Reeves, Perfect Day Photos.
Charles G. Crisp, President and Bella Lizasuain, General Manager
Splendor
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ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
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Craftsmanship…Remember Me?
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TRUE REFRIGERATION FOR THE HOME Preferred brand of top chefs, restaurants and hotels. Superior refrigeration for your everyday life. 70 YEARS of TRUE INNOVATION, EXPERTISE and PERFORMANCE. 14
ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
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WWW.TRUE-RESIDENTIAL.COM FIND U S O N AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
4/15/16 10:01 AM
homefront Expert Tips, News and Happenings from Atlanta’s Home Improvement Community Atlanta Botanical Garden: Gardens for Connoisseurs Tour Photo courtesy of Atlanta Botanical Garden.
Expert Q&A
Q:
What should I look for in a refrigerator?
A:
When shopping for a new
refrigerator, first consider finding a brand
Whether you’re a landscape
with a great warranty
aficionado or just curious
and local customer care.
about gardens, the Gardens
Also think about
for Connoisseurs Tour, on May 9–10, will delight you. This Atlanta Botanical Garden
features you may
event will exhibit 12 spectacular private gardens designed by talented landscape
need—an ice-and-water
architects, garden designers and local gardeners. Details: AtlantaBG.org
dispenser on the door, adjustable half shelves, accessibility by children
Through the Garden Gate
or capacity for large
The Master Gardener Volunteers of Cobb County
Usability of your
are hosting their 14th annual Through the Garden
refrigerator and
Gate tour on May 7. These “teaching gardens” are
configuration are
designed to provide real-life lessons and inspiration
important factors as
as well as demonstrate how the master gardeners
well. Will you be able to
maintain their own landscapes. The tour will
reach all areas of your
consist of several private gardens and various
refrigerator’s shelves?
projects. Tickets are $15 in advance/$20 day of tour.
Will it fit in your existing
Details: CobbMasterGardeners.com
refrigerator space? Does
items like pizza boxes.
it provide good lighting? Dual refrigeration systems are best for
Atlanta Decorative Arts Center Sample Sale The Atlanta Decorative Arts Center (ADAC)
fresh food preservation and provide higher humidity and uniformity in the refrigerator with less freezer burn.
hosts its 33rd Annual Sample Sale from May 13–15. Find discounted pricing on high-end designer products including rugs, lighting, interior and outdoor furnishings and accessories. Take advantage of once-a-year reduced prices and bring home some bargains to enhance your space. This event is open to the public and benefits Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Details: ADACAtlanta.com AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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—Rick Alexander, co-owner of Distinctive Appliances. DAAtl.com ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
15
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homefront The 14th Annual Kirkwood Spring Fling & Tour of Homes Join your family, friends and neighbors at the 14th Annual Kirkwood Spring Fling, May 14–15! Start your day on the right foot with a 5K, followed by a stroll through the artists’ market, where you can catch live music and a bite to eat from local food trucks. You can also explore more about what makes the Kirkwood neighborhood distinct by joining their Tour of Homes. Best of all, the festival’s admission is free!
Photo courtesy of Kirkwood Spring Fling. Photography by Erin Crews.
Details: KirkwoodFling.com
WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS MONTH May 3–5 The Spring Immediate Delivery Show®, A Cash & Carry Event AmericasMart Atlanta AmericasMart.com May 6–8 Sweet Auburn SpringFest Historic Auburn Avenue District SweetAuburn.com May 7 14th Annual “Through the Garden Gate” Tour 10 a.m.–5 p.m. CobbMasterGardeners.com
May 7–8 Chastain Park Arts Festival Saturday 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Chastain Park ChastainParkArtsFestival.com May 7–8 Gardens for Connoisseurs Tour 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Atlanta Botanical Garden AtlantaBG.org May 13–15 Atlanta Decorative Arts Center Sample Sale
Atlanta Decorative Arts Center ADACAtlanta.com May 14–15 Kirkwood Spring Fling, 5K & Tour of Homes 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Bessie Branham Park KirkwoodFling.com May 28–29 Decatur Arts Festival Saturday 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Downtown Decatur DecaturArtsFestival.com
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28 Full Size Displays Numerous Styles of Glass Vanity Mirrors • Mirrored Walls Glass Shelves • Glass Tabletops Photography by Anastasia Alkema
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ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
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WE ACCEPT:
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DC Enclosures, Inc. has built thousands of enclosures in Metro Atlanta since 1988
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4/15/16 10:01 AM
TOP IT OFF
Photo courtesy of Glazer Design & Construction. Photography by Nelson Salivia, Fotographik Arts.
From traditional to contemporary— your roof makes a statement about your home
18
A
home’s roof is like a hat. Just as you would don a cap for warmth, shade or to make a statement as an accessory—a roof serves those purposes for your home. If you’re looking to replace your existing roof, don’t miss the opportunity to make that roof work hard for you, but show off some style too.
Before you make any big decisions, cross the street and examine your roof from a distance: Is it one large expanse that could benefit from features like dormers or copper gutters to
ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
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4/18/16 1:23 PM
Laminated (Asphalt Shingles)
+ Beautiful appearance -
Light weight | Less expensive Looks like slate or wood Vulnerable to high winds
break it up? Does your roof’s color and texture contrast nicely with the paint or materials on the outside of your house? Face it, a boring beige roof on a boring beige house isn’t going to win any style contests. But take a boring beige house and top it with a dramatic “hat” of dark-brown textured shingles and you’ll have the neighbors doing a double-take. We’ve got some expert advice to help you consider your choices in roof materials and design. AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Come Hail or High Water From a functional viewpoint, a roof serves a crucial purpose. And, in our climate, it must be up to the task. From the minute the roof is installed, it starts to deteriorate—much like the proverbial new car driving off the showroom lot. Georgia weather can be tough on a roof, no matter what the material. In the summer, the hot Southern sun can bake a roof in temperatures above 200oF; in the winter, it can be subjected to frost and snow, not to mention heavy winds, hailstorms and blowing debris that impacts a roof’s integrity all year long. Grab a pair of binoculars and get a close look at what you’re up against—if you see cracked or peeling shingles, you’ve got a problem that needs immediate attention. Putting off roof repairs can cost you big if you give rain a chance to seep beneath the shingles. “The best thing you can do for your roof is to keep debris off of it and routinely inspect it for any broken or cracked sealants, torn shingles or exposed nails,” says Natalie Lagace of Hicks Roofing. Repairs that could run you a few hundred dollars now might save you tens of thousands of dollars down the road.
Be Square To get a quick idea of how much a new shingled roof will cost, start with the area (length multiplied by width) of each part of the roof to be covered by shingles. It’s wise to add 10 percent to that number to allow for wasted material. Roofing manufacturers sell shingles in bundles that will cover 100 square feet (called “squares”), so divide your roof’s area by 100 to decide how many squares of roofing
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material you’ll need. According to the Consumer Reports 2015 Roof Buying Guide, “Figure on about 30 squares for a typical 2,300-square-foot house, plus roughly $3,500 to $10,000 for labor. Figure on an extra $100 or more per 100 square feet to strip off and dispose of the old shingles. … Keep an extra bundle of shingles for minor repairs, particularly after a heavy storm.”
Don’t Stress Shingles can be heavy. Materials such as wood, slate or some laminates can weigh enough to require extra support to be built into a roof’s infrastructure. Placing a new roofing material over an old one can stress trusses and joists that support the roof— potentially causing them to buckle or crack.
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That’s one reason most local building codes require you to remove all the existing layers of roofing materials before putting on a new one. Another reason to completely remove existing roof layers is so you can check for rot and water or insect damage that would otherwise go unnoticed.
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M A D E
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. AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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thrilled about it.” Another big advantage of metal shingles is that they reflect light, which helps keep a roof cool during the hot months of the year. Copper as a roofing material is very expensive; yet, over time, the characteristic patina developed adds a high-end
Wood Shingles
design detail to the house.
+ Natural, rustic look -
No doubt about it, real wood and slate
Copper can be used to
Comes from renewable resource Stands up to weather
accentuate a roof line as
Can be pricey May be less resistant to fire
cover exposed pipes if the
edging or flashing and to budget allows.
panels or shingles have a beautiful look, but they can be cost prohibitive. Even if you opt for costly cedar shingles (known to last longer than most wood types), you’re signing up for a roof that will need to be kept clean of debris and mold on a regular basis so it will last as long as possible. Lessexpensive roofing options, like traditional asphalt or some laminated (“architectural”) shingles and more expensive metal shingles, will not only give you the textured look of the real thing, but will weigh less and be easier to install and maintain. Metal shingles (steel, aluminum, alloy or copper) weigh even less than asphalt shingles and, importantly, won’t burn. They can be dented by flying debris or hail but, according to Consumer Reports, “Although the steel strips we tested dented easily, their textured surface hid minor damage quite well.” The CR buying guide recommends purchasing materials with the highest fire rating—
Dormers Add Space Inside, Interest Outside Dormers are a roof’s opportunity to showcase some style. Top-floor rooms benefit from the addition of dormers with windows as they provide extra headroom and sunlight. But where dormers really make an impact is on the outside of the house. These protrusions in the slope of a roofline can be simple, with clean lines, or elaborate, with fancy detailing and paint treatments. Sometimes dormers without windows (a blind or false dormer) can be used to break up the slope of a large roof or to emphasize traditional house designs, as with Cape Cod or Craftsman styles. If dormers aren’t original to your house, you can purchase kits or prefab dormer units and install them yourself or have them put in professionally.
Class A. “Metal roofing shingles are a great light-weight, low-
Isolate the Space
maintenance option, but something to think about is
It’s a good idea to consider what happens to all that
how they sound when it rains,” Randy Glazer, owner
hot air in your attic when temps soar. A well-designed
of Glazer Design and Construction, points out. “Some
attic ventilation system prevents seeping of air to
people love how they can really hear the rain with metal shingles, but others aren’t that
Metal Strips
+ Ultra-light weight -
Fire resistant Reflects sun’s rays, so is energy efficient Expensive | Can dent
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Let the Sun Shine In Plastic bubble skylights have come a long way since their first appearance on rooftops in the 1960s. For those interested in energy efficiency, solar-powered skylighting products don’t just harness the sun’s energy to light the home’s interior like
Skylights
Photo courtesy of Velux. Photo courtesy of Velux America.
a good, old-fashioned
+ Eco-friendly addition for
window. Now, skylight
-
light tubes, solar tubes
options are plentiful—
natural light
Leakage if not sealed properly
or tubular daylighting devices (TDDs) collect
and from your living space. Ideally, the attic space
light on the roof, then refract and
should be completely isolated from the rest of your
reflect it into the space below. These lights look
house—the floor of the attic should be sealed well
like recessed can lights, but require no electricity
(especially around pipes or other openings) and
to light a room. Skylights can be installed on flat
plenty of insulation should be used to create a thick
or peaked roofs and many offer opening windows
boundary between your ceiling and the roof. This
and retractable shades that allow total control of
ensures that cooler, air-conditioned air stays in the
the light and air flowing into a room from above.
house and doesn’t rise through the roof, wasting
High-end options include skylight windows that
energy and encouraging condensation. Likewise, in
convert sunlight into the power source for opening
winter you don’t want warmed air to rise into the
and closing the skylight. Some have rain sensors
attic—a warm rooftop will melt snow and frost and
that automatically shut the window in inclement
also cause moisture and condensation problems
weather. And even skylights aren’t safe from
inside your attic.
smartphones—many brands can be programmed with a companion app.
Venting Your Hot Air A hard-working component of a successful roof ecosystem is the vent. As a roof is heated by the sun, air inside the attic warms and escapes through either a gable vent in the attic wall, a rooftop vent pipe or a ridge vent that runs along the peak of the roof line. Gable vents, which can be seen from the
Another bit of good news on the energy-saving front is that you can receive up to a 30 percent federal tax credit on your energy-efficient “solar electric property” expenditures now through December 31, 2016. Save your receipts and consult the IRS website for more information.
outside of the house, not only provide an opening
The Final Word
for airflow, but can also be a decorative architectural
Protect yourself by reading any warranties
element. Soffit vents, hidden where exterior walls
presented by roof manufacturers or installers.
meet the roof, act as an inlet for outside air to enter
Roofing warranties usually offer full
the attic and then flow up and out. A “whole-house”
reimbursement for labor and materials, but for a
fan installed in your attic can help pull cool air up to
limited time. Check to see if the warranty covers
the attic so that hot air is forced out through vents to
storms where winds exceed 85 mph, as that’s a
the outside. Remember that poor attic ventilation can
common exclusion. Manufacturers won’t warranty
create an increased risk of combustion back-drafting,
faulty installation work, so be a smart shopper and
especially for a fireplace with an exterior chimney.
get a warranty from the installer.
RESOURCES Glazer Design & Construction | GlazerConstruction.com AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Hicks Roofing | HicksRoofing.net
Velux | Velux.com
ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
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DESIGN NOTES
Good Night, Sleep Tight‌
Are e Sheets Just Right? By Katherine Michalak
Photo courtesy of Peacock Alley.
W
ho among us does not adore climbing
The pros at Peacock Alley literally wrote the book
into bed after a long day? If you don’t
on producing fine linens in America. That book,
instantly feel relaxed at tuck-in time,
Uncommon Threads by company founder Mary Ella
maybe you need to re-examine your
Gabler, lays out the origins of the Peacock Alley
dreamscape. Creating an environment conducive
brand’s signature style. It delves into her deep
to healthy sleep is a matter of more than blissful
appreciation for the exquisite handmade quilts of
relaxation—sound sleep can make all the difference
her Pennsylvania childhood and her reverence for the
between a productive day and one spent in a haze.
sewing of her mother and grandmother.
The cumulative effect of chronic sleep deprivation
Through stories and advice, Gabler shows her
can even have clinical repercussions. This month is
commitment to educating consumers on the benefits
National Sleep Awareness Month, so let’s chat about
of a well-made bed.
getting ZZZs. Our February Buying Guide laid out the details on picking a mattress, the foundation of well-supported sleep, but what you spread out atop that mattress can either regale or ruin your restful state. Yes, the sheets matter. In fact, the layering of the entire bed linen set truly matters. Pay
attention to the details— this is not a time to “make do.� If you opt for linens that feel good and look good, you’ll be on your way to a great snooze. 28
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The team at Atlanta’s Peacock Alley Design Studio, one of only three in the country, shares Gabler’s vision. Their knowledge and resources at the studio— samples of every product and details about its production—simplify sheet-shopping. They advocate building a linen collection over time by adding quality pieces that have meaning to you. When cared for well, those linens will last a lifetime and become vintage treasures, much like the quilts and laces that inspired Gabler to start her company 40 years ago. AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
4/19/16 11:19 AM
Photos courtesy of Peacock Alley.
A Perfectly Prepped Bed Piles On: Mattress Cover and/ or Pad: Covering the mattress protects it from damage and extends its wear; adding a mattress pad gives one more layer of comfort and support. Heed the mattress manufacturer’s instructions; some mattress types (such as some memory foams) require very specific covers and may not function well with certain pads. Sheet Set (Fitted and Flat): Choose the variety you like and take care of them. Make sure corner pockets of the fitted sheet support the depth of your mattress and mattress pad so that everything stays nicely tucked. Launder regularly without bleaching (which weakens the thread), and iron AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
0516_028-031_Linens.indd 29
them if possible. Yes, your grandmother was right, ironing the sheets does make them softer—it’s the combination of heat and steam with the weight of the iron that brings the fibers to their full glory. Blanket: Again with the mantra “Quality, Quality, Quality.” Depending on your climate and optimal sleeping temperature, you may want a lightweight cotton knit for summer and wool for the winter months. Quilt or Coverlet: Use one for style and sentimentality and also for extra weight if desired. Get those heirlooms out of the trunks when possible and fold them at the end of the bed. Look at new
pieces that work with the items you already own, perhaps adding a neutral-toned matelassé. The quilted look of a matelassé may seem delicate, but a quality product is actually quite tough—some boast a triple weave that stands up to kids and dogs and whatever else decides to flop across the bed. Comforter: You can opt for a comforter for a cozy, warm, final touch— particularly in colder climates or winter’s chilly months. A duvet cover functions like a giant pillowcase for a comforter and can increase its longevity and make cleaning easier—just take it off and toss it in the wash.
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4/19/16 11:19 AM
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DESIGN NOTES Forego that matchy-matchy, bed-in-a-bag look; choose elements that comfort you and reflect your lifestyle. Photo courtesy of Peacock Alley.
Nice Threads Confused about the high thread-count hype? You’re not alone. A sheet’s thread count is measured by the number of Photos courtesy of Peacock Alley.
threads running through a oneinch square of material—half the count in the vertical line of the weave and the other half
in the horizontal line. A 200-thread count means that there are 100 strands of thread going in each direction. Increasing a thread count, though, doesn’t necessarily improve the sheeting. On the contrary, many so-called “high thread-count sheets” actually have thread fibers that are split apart before the weave, making them thinner and weaker in the process. It’s the type of fibers that determines the quality of the sheeting. Egyptian long-staple cotton reigns as the supreme crop for weaving luxury linens because its fibers stand the test of time while retaining their strength and beauty. Other natural-fiber selections include bamboo, linen and silk— all of which drape softly over the body and allow for skin to “breathe” while sleeping.
“
My very first set of ‘good sheets’ was given to me as a college graduation gift and they spent
17
years in the bed-making rotation: 17 years x 26 weeks of use per year x 7 days a week = 3,094 nights of sleeping fabulousity. THAT’s strong ROI!
”
You don’t necessarily need a boutique to find high-quality sheets—stores such as HomeGoods, Tuesday Morning and Bed Bath & Beyond often carry great selections. Avoid synthetic materials whenever possible; these are made using harsh chemicals that should probably stay in a lab, not be wrapped around you all night long. The price of those sheets are cheap for a reason. If you can, invest in quality linens. Think about it: if you’d spend $100 on a dress you might only wear a few times, why not spend money on a set of sheets you will use daily and enjoy for years? (My very first set of “good sheets” was given to me as a college graduation gift and they spent 17 years in the bed-making rotation: 17 years x 26 weeks of use per year x 7 days a week = 3,094 nights of sleeping fabulousity. THAT’s strong ROI!) RESOURCES National Sleep Foundation | SleepFoundation.org Peacock Alley | PeacockAlley.com The Better Sleep Council | BetterSleep.org WebMD.com AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Shaking It All Out Bamboo Sheeting: Pulp of the plant breaks down into fibers that are spun into thread. Cotton Sheeting: Most common and readily available—quality determined by grade of fiber and thread count. Wide range of prices and patterns. Deep-Pocket Sheets: Fitted sheets with extra-wide corner depth; allows full coverage and secure fit over plush mattresses. Duvet Cover: Removable sheeting encasement for comforter. Flannel: Thickly woven cotton or wool fabric; brushed to produce a soft, “fuzzy” texture. Jersey: Fabric produced by interlocking knit threads instead of weaving. Linen Sheeting: Fibers cultivated from flax plants—extremely durable, absorbent and hypoallergenic; stiff at first but softens over time. The European use of linen fabric for sheeting is where the term “linens” originated. Momme-weight: Japanese standard weight of silk; silk threads are extremely fine, so the quality of silk is determined by the weight of finished lengths measured 100 yards long by 45 inches wide. If that yardage weighs 10 pounds, the silk is graded as 10 momme. Matelassé: French term for quilted or cushioned fabric. Usually several layers of sturdy cotton or silk handstitched together in delicate patterns. Percale: Produced by flat cotton-fiber threads woven in a basketweave technique; creates a crisp, yet soft, texture similar to that of classic dress shirts. Sateen: Twisting cotton-fiber threads prior to weaving produces a glossy, smooth feel with a subtle sheen. “Satin” is not a fabric itself, it’s the weaving of silk threads with this technique. Silk: Long, continuous filament of protein substance produced by worms; harvested and wound into textile fibers. Thread Count: Number of threads running through an inch (horizontally and vertically) of woven sheeting material. ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
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4/19/16 11:19 AM
On the
Fence
You’ve heard the old adage: Good fences make for good neighbors. But they do more than that—they announce your sense of style.
A
fence establishes the relationship between the environment outside your home and the neighborhood where your home was built. A fence around the front yard can beckon, “C’mon in!” Or it can send a firm signal: “Privacy is our top priority—stay out.” If
it’s time to refurbish your existing fence or install a new one, it’s important to consider what your message is.
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Metal Pro: Long-lasting material; lends itself to modern or formal architectural design; is not combustible Con: More expensive to install Photo courtesy of Landscape Studio.
The first order of business when considering a fence is generally to figure out why you need it. For most homeowners, a fence will create a boundary between neighboring properties and usually will provide some privacy. Fences can also block unsightly views, protect pets and children from
Chain-link Pro: Cheapest to install; can be used as a support for vines; good for pets who need a view of the street; utilitarian look Con: Can rust and warp over time. Might have sharp edges
harm and flatter the look of your home’s exterior. They can even be used to help control Mother Nature—blocking wind and providing shade from the setting sun. If privacy is your number-one priority, fences with tightly spaced slats will hide your yard from the street. Height restrictions vary from city to city, but typically fences in front yards below 3½ feet tall and in back yards below 6 feet tall won’t need a permit to install. Fences with trellising at the top provide a peek-a-boo view of adjoining property AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Organic materials Pro: Great for a DIY project involving found organic objects, like driftwood or stone; lends itself to eclectic architecture Con: Hard to create uniform look; repairs can be difficult if materials are scarce
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Wood Pro: Less expensive to install; easily available; lends itself to a more casual look Con: Extensive maintenance—power washing, painting or staining and application of sealant is needed every few years; may have to be replaced in 7 to 10 years; combustible in a fire Photo courtesy of Chatham Landscape Services, Inc. Photography by Chris Voith Photography.
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Vinyl Pro: Clean, modern look; always looks wellmaintained; no splinters; no painting, staining or chemical treatments needed Con: More expensive to install; looks man-made up close; can have mildew or mold build-up— must be cleaned (soap and water)
and can give a vine a place to climb in order to soften the look of the fence. If you like the idea of dividing your garden and yard space into outdoor rooms
or sections, a fence made entirely of an open, trellis-type pattern of slats defines the space without closing it off completely. Keep in mind that fences can work well to frame a view (or block it) in conjunction with plants that you put next to them. Scott Chatham, Photo courtesy of CertainTeed.
president of Chatham Landscape Services, explains, ”You can plant tall, tree-form shrubs, like Burford Hollies, next to a fence to screen the fence itself or the view of a neighboring structure.”
Stylish Concerns If you want to enclose your property with a sturdy fence, it doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style for security. As a matter of fact, most fence designers and contractors will tell you that today’s high-style fence materials are stronger and safer than ever before. Entire showrooms, like Chamblee Fence Company in Atlanta, are filled with samples of fence options so you can ask questions and formulate ideas. There are also online apps, like CertainTeed’s “CurbAppeal” app, that allows you to check out Photo courtesy of Outside Landscape Group. Photography by Rick Kaldrovics.
fence options and play with color, height and material choices virtually.
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4/19/16 11:22 AM
Composite
Consider the style of your
Pro: Ecofriendly—made from reclaimed wood and recycled plastic; fire retardant; long-lasting
home’s façade—a fence should
Con: Can scratch— repairs require new plank; more expensive than wood
of a Tudor-style brick house is
Photo courtesy of Trex Company.
blend with the home’s materials and design so it doesn’t clash and look like an afterthought. A classic, low-slung, white picket fence around the front yard too petite and does nothing to enhance the elegance of the architecture. Likewise, a country-cottage style house will look imprisoned by a chain-link or heavy, wrought-iron fence.
Take stock of the hardscape (or inanimate) design features of your house, such as any masonry or woodwork on doors, windows, the roof or walls. If your front door has features like plaster pilasters flanking it, consider using plaster columns as fence posts to mimic that classic design feature. If the architecture of your home has a modern vibe, check out “zen-like” options to complement that style—steel and bamboo are materials that are often used for that purpose. Keep the design of this type of fence clean (no fussy ornamentation like finials on top of posts) and minimalistic (stick to one or two materials or colors) to bring the contemporary feel of the house out into the yard. Even fences that aren’t completely solid can provide a visual barrier around a property. If you aren’t worried about pets and kids escaping, try spacing posts of the fence in wider-than-normal intervals to provide interest. Or think
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Make your about using organic materials, like boulders or reclaimed wood timbers, to use as posts. Some of the most interesting fences combine features from different materials altogether,
scape
like a fence with brick posts and decorative metal rails.
Pool Protectors If you’ve got a pool or spa, keeping kids and pets safe is, of course, of the utmost importance. It’s critical to keep young children from falling in and it’s important to control access to older kids (teenagers and swimming pools sometimes go together when you don’t want them to). Georgia state law requires that the fence around a pool be at least four feet tall and it has to begin no more than four inches above the ground in order to prevent kids or animals from squeezing through. And all gates in the pool fence should push open to the outside and have child-proof latches that are placed at least four feet high. You can count your house as part of the fence surrounding a pool as long as you have an alarm on the door leading from the home’s interior to the pool, so you know who’s coming and going.
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Glass Pro: Provides adjacent views; great for modern architecture Con: Keeping it clean is timeconsuming; expensive to install
Go Green—The Problem with Wood Back in the day, when timber resources were numerous, wood fences were typically built using top-grade wood and they lasted for decades with very little maintenance. But these days, says Doug Mucher, marketing manager for CertainTeed Outdoor Living, “The wood typically used in fence construction is of lower quality and is more prone to warp, fade and split after exposure to the elements. The repair work is costly over the life of a wood fence. Also, from an environmental perspective, the chemicals found in products used to wash, color and seal fences can be AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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problematic, leaching into the ground and potentially exposing families to harmful side effects.” Vinyl fences offer an environmentally friendly option for homeowners who want to put the planet first. “It may seem counter-intuitive that vinyl is an environmentally responsible option for fences,” Mucher admits. “But the recycled PVC included in some vinyl fence products, like CertainTeed materials, has a much lower carbon footprint than virgin PVC.” Reduced usage of virgin PVC means reduced consumption of nonrenewable petroleum resources. And, says Mucher, “Manufacturing fence materials made with vinyl lessens the number of trees that have to be harvested, as well as the related energy costs of processing and transporting raw lumber.” If you opt for vinyl fencing, it’s likely you won’t have to maintain or replace the fence for many years, unlike with the wood option.
Like a Good Neighbor
Photo courtesy of CertainTeed.
And remember, the expense of installing a fence can be shared by neighbors on both sides of it; so, in a perfect world, coming to a friendly agreement with the Joneses about how you want the fence to look, where it will be placed and how it will be made should be your goal. Look at the big picture when you think about fence materials and styles—surround your yard with security and style. RESOURCES CertainTeed CertainTeed.com
Chatham Landscape Services ChathamLandscapes.com
Outside Landscape Group OutsideLandscapeGroup.com
Chamblee Fence Co. ChambleeFence.com
Landscape Studio LandscapeStudioGroup.com
Trex Trex.com
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|
Call today: 678-896-8352 ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
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4/18/16 3:50 PM
➊ Time for a Cool Change By Katherine Michalak
W
hen I first came on board with Atlanta Best Media—publisher of Atlanta Home Improvement
and Best Self Atlanta magazines—everyone renovations, telling me, “We’re about to change everything!” After talking to the company leaders, Sherri Adair and Patti Stephens, I learned that they hadn’t changed much of anything since first moving into the building in 2002 and it was time for an update. The office design needed to reflect the vibrant personalities of the people working here and the dynamic magazines produced. Atlanta Best Media was ready for some “Home Improvement” in order to showcase its “Best Self.” Adair and Stephens had new business developments on the horizon and wanted the office
1. Room to Move Wide-open space invites collaboration, with colorful IKEA furnishings that can easily be rearranged as needed. Carpet tiles add a subtle pattern and clever functionality— if an area is damaged or stained, those tiles can be pulled up and replaced.
BEFORE
buzzed about the upcoming office
And, the needs of the office staff had changed considerably over the years. Workflow moved throughout the magazine departments differently than it had when they first launched. No longer effective was the sea of cubicles accommodating large desktop computers and heavy CPUs. Most of the account executives now used laptops, tablets and smartphones, providing better flexibility for sales calls. Rows of filing cabinets took up space and
2. Warm Welcome The entrance foyer glows with touches of bling: a sparkling, transitionalstyle chandelier, mosaic-tile wall accents and colored glass. The hide rug warms up the space.
gathered dust now that crucial files were backed up onto servers. The editorial and production teams also streamlined their process with larger screens and enhanced digital capacity replacing sketchbooks and planning boards. The conference room, situated in the center of the office, could no longer seat the entire staff, with narrow hallways winding around it— leaving the departments closed off from each other.
40
3. Loungin’ Around Cozy seating allows the waiting area to double as a small meeting space; the TV is able to stream as a computer screen.
Photography by Brian Reeves, Perfect Day Photos. Hair and makeup by The Green Room Agency.
space to grow along with their vision.
➋
ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
0516_040-045_Homeowners story.indd 40
4/19/16 11:51 AM
Jessi
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0516_040-045_Homeowners story.indd 41
4/19/16 11:51 AM
“Hard Surface” Sale
May 1-31, 2016
Adair and Stephens called on Jessie LaFalce of REVIVE Design-Build to help them with a new design and to manage the renovation. LaFalce noted: “This office has been part of the Atlanta Best Media family for 15 years, but it needed a facelift after all this time. It felt like a library—it was Jani
dark and dated. We mixed modern
Pre-finished Hardwoods | Tile | Stone | Laminate | Luxury Vinyl Planks
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LaFalce coordinated everything
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➍
BEFORE
➏
➎
BEFORE
4. Times Are Changin’ | Our storage area transformed into a new workspace with mounted desk surfaces and docking stations for phones, tablets and laptops. Tim
5. Now You See It, Now You Don’t | A glass garage-door “wall” gives the conference room the flexibility to open up and become part of the entertaining flow.
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6. Orange You Glam | The restrooms gained sophisticated tile treatments and pops of color on the orange mirror frames.
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during the holiday season. Adair raves about her efforts: “Jessie worked night and day to make this happen for us. She kept every detail on track and within our budget, managing all areas of the project. Her fresh ideas and incredible energy kept us so excited. It turned out better than we could have ever imagined possible. I can hardly believe what Jessie accomplished here! What a feat.”
7. A Sweet Spot for Beautiful Designs Our production area also got a fresh update with new walnut-stained countertops, neutral paint tones and streamlined storage.
➐
We all returned to celebrate the New Year of 2016 in a beautiful, new office space. BEFORE
LaFalce applied an “open floor plan” approach to the office, much like those in high demand for residential renovations. Opening up the space immediately changed the energy and enlivened the environment. The new flow allows for a variety of office events, from client conferences and larger staff meetings to magazine photo and video shoots to casual entertaining. Staff members now collaborate in comfortable seating areas, instead of
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crammed into cubicles. Departments are more accessible to each
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other, encouraging brainstorming and group participation. The
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casual, postive mood matches the tone of our publications, as
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well as supports our evolving media company as we develop new print and digital products to provide additional resources
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for readers across the city.
DISPOSAL SYSTEM Bin There Dump That, 404-692-2838 AtlantaDumpsterRentals.net ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Mister Sparky, 770-882-2489 MisterSparkyAtlanta.com
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Laundry Collection
“My expert advice? Rely on an expert.”
AMY MATTHEWS TV Host and Licensed General Contractor
TV host and Licensed General Contractor Amy Matthews has built and remodeled lots of homes over the years. As an expert, she knows better than anyone the value of working with professionals – like the ones at Ferguson. Our product experts will help you find the perfect products from the finest bath, kitchen and lighting brands in the world, so you can take pride in your home – on every level. Set up your appointment with Ferguson today, and let us show you the possibilities for your next project. Visit FergusonShowrooms.com and request your appointment today.
©2016 Ferguson Enterprises, Inc. 0416 158153
0516_046-049_Buying-guide-Washer-Dryer.indd 46
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buyingguide A New Spin on Washers
& Dryers
The clothes pile up. That clunky, rattling noise reverberating from your washer and dryer grows harder to avoid. It sounds like it’s time for a laundry-room upgrade. We’re here to lighten the load—you have plenty of choices when it comes to new laundry appliances and features that match your household’s requirements.
Where Do I Start? Begin your search for a new washer and dryer by sorting through your needs. Washers and dryers are an investment, so think about how much use the appliance will get today and in the future. If you’re single now, your laundry needs are probably light. But if your family is going to expand, planning ahead for a laundry system with a large capacity and more high-end features (like a special cycle for delicate baby clothes) will pay off in the end. If you’re debating whether to purchase both appliances at the same time, keep in mind that a laundry set is designed to work together—the
s p i T t r e p x E
capacity of a dryer is determined by the capacity of the washer, so it’s best to buy the pair if budget allows. And manufacturers often offer a rebate on sets, making your upgrade more affordable.
•
Make sure you have room for side-by-side appliances—if space is limited, opt for a space-saving model, like a stackable washer and dryer. Measure the area and consider the space around the doorframe and baseboards—those tiny few inches can make a huge difference when appliances are delivered. Take note of
for
top-loading washers. • dates of sales and pre-sales in stores and online. •
where your water hookup and exhaust vent for the dryer are so they align with your plans.
Newer models are released during this time and distributors are eager to clear their inventory of the previous year’s models. •
At Capacity If you face an endless heap of laundry every day or have an athlete in the house, a high-capacity washer could make your life easier. If
®
This means that these machines meet requirements for efficiency, saving water and energy.
your washer and dryer don’t see regular use, choose a smaller-capacity set and save energy and water. Don’t rely on a manufacturer’s marketing terms to describe the size of the appliance (such as “extra” or “super”)—for a true comparison, analyze appliance capacities in cubic feet. A good way to visualize that capacity is to picture a load of bath towels. A compact washer will hold about 7 towels (1.5 to 3 cubic feet); a standard washer’s capacity could accommodate 14 to 17 towels (about 3.1 to 4 cubic feet of space) and a very large-capacity washer could hold 24 towels (over 5 cubic feet). AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
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Whether or not you’re buying a set or purchasing a single
TYPE OF MACHINE
Standard top-load washer
How it works
Tub fills with water twice (wash & rinse), agitator moves items through the water
Doesn’t fill with water like a standard machine, determines how much water the load needs
Next Generation
Budget range
$399–$1699
$699–$1499
Much has changed in the washer-and-dryer market. If you want
Advantages
• Lower initial price • Easy to add forgotten item • Unload from a standing position, no bending
• Gentle treatment of clothes • Greater capacity • Less water usage than standard models • Faster spin
• High water usage • More wear and tear on clothes due to agitator • Longer dry time as clothes retain more water after spin cycle
• Higher initial price • HE detergent required • Deep tubs make it harder to reach inside
appliance, make sure your dryer has up to twice the capacity of the washer. You may end up with a dryer that’s a little larger than you usually need, but that’s better than struggling with a wet comforter that doesn’t fit in the dryer.
to fill your home with smart appliances, features like a quiet cycle, steam dryers and even Wi-Fi are now available. Some newer models even have dual chambers that handle large loads and delicates simultaneously. Before you pick a machine with complex features, like the washer that can sense what type of fabric is inside, be careful what you wish for—too many bells and Disadvantages
whistles might turn this chore into a rocket-science project.
WHERE TO FIND IN AT L A N TA Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery Ferguson.com | See ad p. 46 Howard Payne | HowardPayne.com | See ad p. 14
High-efficiency (HE) top-load washer
Noland | 770-458-2111 | See ad p. 49 NorthPoint Kitchens | NorthPointKitchens.com See ad p. 22
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ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
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AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
4/19/16 11:53 AM
HE) er
nt
y e
High-efficiency (HE) front-load washer
Electric dryer
Determines how much water is needed for a load lifts clothes to the top to loosen dirt and mi es detergent to create concentrated solution
Heated air passes through the drum
$699–$1499
$399–$1499
• Highest potential for utility savings • Less water usage than standard models • Greatest capacity • Able to stack to save space
• Higher initial price • HE detergent re uired • ay e tra for a drawer stand that raises the washer so loading and unloading doesn t re uire bending
Stacked laundry center
Gas dryer Hooks up to your natural gas connection for heat
ompact machines stack one on top of the other to save space
•
osts less than gas model • ransfers heat to surrounding rooms
• osts less to operate • Heats faster than electric • Dries clothes fast • an be converted to li uid propane
• E cellent space saver
•
• Initial costs are more than electric • e uires e ternal e haust vent • e uires three prong plug
• •
akes longer to dry clothes • osts more to operate • e uires three or four prong volt outlet
maller washing capacity tandard hookups needed
Simplicity is the new luxury.
The Bosch kitchen. Pure, simple, truly flush design. Unrivaled European design, offering both substance and style. With every detail thoughtfully considered to make it the kitchen designed around your life. boschappliances.com © 2016 BSH Home Appliances. #16-BOS-0637 4/16 Your Personal Kitchen & Bath Design Center 4084 Presidential Parkway, Atlanta, GA Phone: 770.458.2111
ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MA 49 4/14/16 3:29 PM
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0516_046-049_Buying-guide-Washer-Dryer.indd 49
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buyingguide Exterior Doors Your home’s front door can command a fabulous first impression or it can fail to draw much notice. Replacing the door as an upgrade to your home’s look is a decision that often pays for itself. More than almost any other feature on the front of a house, a stylish entry door can increase your home’s value by establishing your positive curb appeal. Unlock our tips for picking just the right exterior door.
Knock on This Exterior doors are available in these common materials: wood, fiberglass and steel. Which surface is right for your needs? Make the debate easier by referring to our chart (p. 52) to help you choose a door based on your budget, the door’s maintenance levels and other pros and cons.
Saving Energy Your exterior door choice can save you energy and money. Warmth leaks through the cracks between doors and their surrounding frames, not through the door itself; so to prevent cold air from seeping in and to maximize savings, choose a door that is Energy Star® rated. These models are tested and certified, offering frames that fit tightly, with energy-efficient cores and insulation to reduce heat transfer. Steel and fiberglass doors typically insulate your home better than wood doors, but if your door isn’t Energy Star® certified, you may not save as much money on utility bills as possible. AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
0516_050-053_Exterior Door.indd 51
s p i T t r e p x E •
—this added expense can range from low end, about $30, to high end, up to $600.
•
that separates the inside and outside doors, preventing outside cold and heat from seeping through the frame and rain from saturating it. ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
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4/18/16 1:57 PM
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Adding an Accent You want your new door to grab the neighbor’s eye, so pay attention to the details. There are plenty of door styles and options available to customize your entryway to your liking. • Glass—Many types of doors are available with decorative glass options, whether it be one large opening or glass separated into several panels. Glass inserts are very attractive, but they add to the cost of the door. They also cut the door’s insulating value, even though most have insulated glass for additional energy efficiency.
770.713.1704 • www.MudjackAtlanta.com
TYPES OF DOORS Material Steel
Budget ange
epairs Maintenance
Least expensive
• ypically low maintenance, but dents are hard to fix • aint or apply a finish to protect against outdoor elements
• Ine pensive • Energy ef cient but adding glass panels cuts insulation value • Good choice for most climates • ust resistant but scratches may rust if they aren’t painted promptly • e uires minor upkeep if dents are likely at your house
• e uires little maintenance • Dent resistant • ealing with a finish will keep door looking new
• esists wear and tear better than steel • ithstands any climate well— hot or cold, wet or dry • Most practical choice for the look and feel of genuine wood without the upkeep • an crack under severe pressure
• e uires regular painting or varnishing to look good • Least likely to dent and scratch, but easy to repair if there is a scratch
• olid wood doors are best at resisting wear and tear • rovide a high end look that other materials try to imitate • Available in a variety of species, such as fir, pine or mahogany, making them uni ue in appearance • ood can e pand or contract, depending on weather
$150– $1200
beaut ify
Tips to help you . your house from the outside in…
Smart home improvement starts here.
Fiberglass
Mid range cost $300– $1400
Wood
Most expensive $700– $2500
52
atlanta home Improvement MAY 2016
0516_050-053_Exterior Door.indd 52
ros
ons
AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
4/18/16 1:57 PM
Safety First
It’s Better than paint!
While steel is stronger than wood or fiberglass, all three materials are tough enough to keep the bad guys out. It’s usually not the door itself that allows criminals entry to your home (unless your door is hollow).
The weakest link is the type of lock on your door or any glass features it has. Using a lock with a one-inch-long deadbolt is great for doors without glass, but if you’re considering buying a door with glass near the doorknob or sidelites, add a double-cylinder deadbolt lock to it. This way you’ll need a key to open this lock—whether you’re inside or outside—so a burglar can’t simply break the glass to reach in and open the door.
• Si elites—These vertical windows that flank a door allow natural light in and give the homeowner a view of who’s knocking. • tra s
i
Protection for your home with
—This horizontal window above a door
comes in three distinct shapes: an arch, box or ellipse. • I
Glass li
THE PERMANENT
s—Adjustable blinds sandwiched between
two glass panels.
Paint Replacement System
• S i g—The direction the door swings when it opens— outward or inward. Most homes are built to accommodate inward-swinging doors.
Installation Once you’ve picked out the perfect entry door, you’ll be eager to add its welcoming touch, but think twice about installing it yourself. Installation of a new door in your old door frame is a tough DIY project—aligning the hinges and getting the door plumb is not as simple as it seems. If you really want to do the job yourself, spring for a door that comes already hung in its own frame. Home centers generally offer installation or referral services if you want to hire a pro. Remember that you’ll probably need to pay extra for a door knob and deadbolt, too.
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WHERE TO FIND IN AT L A N TA AVI Architectural Visions Inc. AVIMarvin.com | See ad p. 10 Carolina Lumber & Supply Co. CarolinaLumber.com | See ad p. 50 Jennifer's Glassworks JennifersGlassWorks.com | See ad p. 14 Vision Stairways and Millwork, LLC. VisionStairwaysandMillwork.com | See Front Cover AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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ThePayoff – Real Estate ROI Use Outdoor Space to Wow and Woo Buyers When selling their home, many people make sure that their kitchen and bathrooms are updated to be fresh and modern. But there’s an often-overlooked opportunity to entice a buyer, and it’s waiting just past your sliding-glass doors—Mother Nature. Appealing to a potential buyer will be that much easier if those doors open to reveal a real wow factor. Imagine the delight of potential homebuyers when they step outside your back door and find themselves in a gorgeous, wellplanned and colorfully landscaped outdoor living area.
Who Is Your Buyer? Outdoor living can be enjoyed here in Georgia almost year round, and many executives and active adults—seek an outdoor retreat as part of their home. Think about the buyer you want to attract to your home and design an outdoor space just
steps, sturdy railings, wider paths and raised planting beds make the space easily accessible, even if the buyer might experience mobility issues in the future.
for them.
Outdoor Entertaining
Calm Creation
Your outdoor living room can also be a flexible
If your potential buyer is likely to want a rest from the rat race, you may want to create a peaceful, serene outdoor escape. A bubbling fountain and planters brimming with vines and sweet-smelling flowers or herbs can enhance the space. Use organic materials to add that zen feel—like beach pebbles or gravel as a paving material instead of concrete.
Warm and Inviting Harness the universal appeal of a comfortable seating area around an outdoor firepit. You don’t have to break the bank—look for a high-quality portable firepit that suits the space. If you’re lucky enough to have an outdoor fireplace already (or if it’s in the budget to have one built) remember
entertainment space. Create multiple seating areas in the yard to look out over a well-maintained garden or pool and appeal to buyers who enjoy hosting parties. And everybody enjoys al fresco dining—an inviting eating area will definitely impress when you add portable heaters, dimmable lighting or surround-sound speakers.
Keep It Simple Don’t be concerned if your outdoor space isn’t large or your budget isn’t bountiful. A few well-placed essentials, like a colorful container with a beautiful plant and a few new patio chairs with coordinating cushions, can take a small space from blah to elegant.
that a mantle is an opportunity to display outdoor art or candles. Even better, use the space above a fireplace for an outdoor-friendly, flat-screen TV to remind the buyer where the best seat in the house is during football season.
Appeal to the Down-Sizer Today’s boomers, many of them looking to “right-size” from larger homes, will appreciate an outdoor living area with thoughtful features that will age-proof a yard. Lighted 54
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Collette McDonald is widely recognized for her in-depth knowledge of the entire metro Atlanta real-estate market. Collette grew up in Wisconsin and moved to Atlanta in 1995. Her direct, engaged and charismatic personality shines through in her work as a REALTOR®, local community advocate, television expert and small-business owner. Collette@ColletteMcDonald.com
Photography by Michael A. Schwarz.
buyers—growing families, corporate
AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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resourcefinder To find out more about these advertisers Air Conditioning and Heating Cool Air Mechanical...................... 9 Sears®............................................ 48
Appliances Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery...........................46
➚ Howard Payne Company ............ 14 ➚ Noland Company ............................ 49 NorthPoint Kitchens ....................... 22
Arborist
➚ Enhance Floors & More .................27 Florida Tile .......................................11
➚ MODA Floors & Interiors ............ 42 Southern Classic Floors & More... 5
Concrete/Concrete Resurfacing/Repair Aquaguard Foundation Solutions .....................................38 B-Level Concrete ......................... 57 Mudjack ........................................ 52 P.O.P.S. Landscaping .................... 37
Sesmas Tree Service & Turf Care ................................... 39
Bars ➚ Classic Bars
➚ go to AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
Countertops Cabinet & Stone City .................... 2 Luxury without the expense
...............................22
Basements Aquaguard Foundation Solutions ....................................38 Benjamin Andrew Construction Co. ..................... 36
➚ Totally Dependable Contracting Services ................................... 24
Bathrooms Benjamin Andrew Construction Co. ..................... 36 Cabinet & Stone City .................... 2 Luxury without the expense
Chattahoochee Shower Doors...16
➚ DCD Kitchen & Bath Design
Studio ............................................3
➚ Decks & More ..................................35 Drexler Shower Door .................... 8 Custom glass shower and tub enclosures, mirrors, restoration glass and much more
➚ Enhance Floors & More .................27 Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery...........................46 Jose's Painting ............................... 4
➚ Noland Company ............................ 49 RENU Atlanta ............................... 21 RFS Cabinets ................................ 42
➚ Seven Stone, Inc .......................... 12 Life is better with beautiful countertops
➚ Totally Dependable Contracting Services ................................... 24
Building Supplies Ace Hardware .............................. 57 Architectural Visions, Inc. .......... 10 Carolina Lumber & Supply Co. .. 50
Cabinets Cabinet & Stone City .................... 2 Luxury without the expense
➚ DCD Kitchen & Bath Design
Studio ............................................3
➚ Enhance Floors & More .................27
➚ DCD Kitchen & Bath Design
Studio ............................................3
➚ Seven Stone, Inc .......................... 12 Life is better with beautiful countertops
Decks/Patios/Porches Benjamin Andrew Construction Co. ..................... 36 Carolina Lumber & Supply Co. .. 50 DC Enclosures.............................. 17
➚ Decks & More ..................................35 Jose's Painting .............................. 4
➚ Totally Dependable Contracting Services ................................... 24
Disaster Restoration Aquaguard Foundation Solutions .................................. 38
Electrical Contractor Mister Sparky .............................. 44
Energy Efficiency Cool Air Mechanical...................... 9 Jackson EMC ................................ 26
Fabric/Upholstery Artéé Fabrics & Home................. 11 Cornerstone Furniture ................. 7 North Carolina Prices Without the Drive!
Floor Refinishing ➚ MODA Floors & Interiors ............ 42 Southern Classic Floors & More .. 5
Flooring Designer Rug Warehouse ........... 30 Daniels Floors .............................. 52
➚ Enhance Floors & More .................27 Florida Tile .......................................11
Foundation Repair B-Level Concrete ......................... 57
Furniture/Accessories Atlanta Audio & Automation .... 58
ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016
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NorthPoint Kitchens ....................... 22 RFS Cabinets ................................ 42
➚ Seven Stone, Inc .......................... 12
Glass/Mirrors
➚ Totally Dependable Contracting
Atlanta ....................................... 59
Chattahoochee Shower Doors... 16 Drexler Shower Door. ................... 8 Custom glass shower and tub enclosures, mirrors, restoration glass and much more
➚ Jennifer’s Glassworks ................. 14
Green Remodelers, Products & Services Jackson EMC ................................ 26
Gutters Painting Plus ................................ 22
Hardscapes
Life is better with beautiful countertops
Services ................................... 24 US Go Goal Cabinetry ................. 20
Landscape: Maintenance/Design Fern Valley Landscapes & Interiors.................................... 38 Legacy Landscape Management Group ................ 34 P.O.P.S. Landscaping .................... 37 Sesmas Tree Service & Turf Care ................................... 39 Splendor Koi & Pond................... 11
Landscape Supplies
Architectural Visions, Inc. .......... 10
Belgard Hardscapes .................... 13
Atlas Pools.................................... 37
➚ NG Turf ......................................... 55 ➚ Night Vision Outdoor
Belgard Hardscapes .................... 13 Legacy Landscape Management Group ................ 34 P.O.P.S. Landscaping .................... 37 Splendor Koi & Pond................... 11
Home Automation Atlanta Audio & Automation .... 58
Home Decor/Design Cornerstone Furniture ................. 7 North Carolina Prices Without the Drive!
Home Energy Audit Jackson EMC ................................ 26
Home Security Atlanta Audio & Automation .... 58 Jackson EMC ................................ 26
Home Theater Atlanta Audio & Automation .... 58
Insulation/Home Sealing Jackson EMC ................................ 26
Interior Design ➚ Fern Valley Landscapes & Interiors .................................. 38
➚ MODA Floors & Interiors ............ 42
Kitchens
Rubber Floors & More ................. 34 Southern Classic Floors & More .. 5
➚ Noland Company ............................ 49
➚ Overhead Door of
Cabinet & Stone City ........................ 2
US Go Goal Cabinetry ................. 20
56
Garage Doors
Benjamin Andrew Construction Co. ..................... 36
RFS Cabinets ................................ 42
Designer Rug Warehouse ........... 30
North Carolina Prices Without the Drive!
➚ MODA Floors & Interiors ............ 42
Aquaguard Foundation Solutions .................................. 38
Carpets/Rugs/Tiles
Cornerstone Furniture ................. 7
Luxury without the expense
➚ DCD Kitchen & Bath Design
Lighting .........................Back cover
Lighting Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery...........................46
Mattresses Cornerstone Furniture ................. 7 North Carolina Prices Without the Drive!
NARI Contractors Aquaguard Foundation Solutions ....................................38 Benjamin Andrew Construction Co. ..................... 36
➚ Seven Stone, Inc .......................... 12 Life is better with beautiful countertops
➚ Totally Dependable Contracting Services ................................... 24 Vision Stairways & Millwork ...................Front Cover
NKBA Members ➚ DCD Kitchen & Bath Design
Studio ............................................3
➚ Howard Payne Company ............ 14 ➚ Noland Company ............................ 49 ➚ Seven Stone, Inc .......................... 12 Life is better with beautiful countertops
➚ Totally Dependable Contracting Services ................................... 24
Nurseries ➚ NG Turf ......................................... 55
Outdoor Furniture/ Accessories
Studio ............................................3
➚ Atlanta Teak Furniture ............... 38
➚ Decks & More ..................................35 ➚ Enhance Floors & More .................27
Cornerstone Furniture ................. 7
Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery...........................46
➚ Howard Payne Company. ........... 14 Jose's Painting .............................. 4
North Carolina Prices Without the Drive!
➚ Night Vision Outdoor
Lighting ........................Back cover
Outdoor Grills ➚ Howard Payne Company ............ 14 AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Concrete Lifting & Leveling
Don’t allow settling to ruin your concrete! Atlas Pools.................................... 37 DC Enclosures.............................. 17
➚ Howard Payne Company ............ 14 ➚ Noland Company ............................ 49 P.O.P.S. Landscaping .................... 37
➚ Seven Stone, Inc .......................... 12 Life is better with beautiful countertops
Outdoor Lighting Architectural Transformations .................... 50 Legacy Landscape Management Group ................ 34
➚ Night Vision Outdoor
Lighting .........................Back cover
Outdoor Living Atlas Pools.................................... 37 Legacy Landscape Management Group ................ 34
Painting Jose's Painting ............................... 4 Painting Plus ................................ 22
➚ Rhino Shield ................................ 53
Ponds Splendor Koi & Pond................... 11
Pools/Spas Atlas Pools.................................... 37
Plumbing Distributors Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery...........................46
➚ Noland Company ............................ 49
Professional Assoc. National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI)....................................... 48 Urban AG Council (UAC)............. 36
Retaining Walls Belgard Hardscapes .................... 13
Renovation/ Remodeling Aquaguard Foundation Solutions .................................. 38 Benjamin Andrew Construction Co. ..................... 36 Cabinet & Stone City .................... 2 Luxury without the expense
DC Enclosures.............................. 17
➚ Enhance Floors & More .................27 Jose's Painting .............................. 4
➚ Totally Dependable Contracting Services ................................... 24
Roofing Painting Plus ................................ 22
Shower Enclosures Chattahoochee Shower Doors ......................................... 16
AtlantaHomeImprovement.com
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Drexler Shower Door. ................... 8
Sidewalks, Driveways, Pool Decks, Floors, Steps, Patios, Porches, Basements, Garages and More!
Custom glass shower and tub enclosures, mirrors, restoration glass and much more
RENU Atlanta ............................... 21
Showrooms ➚ DCD Kitchen & Bath Design Studio..............................................3 DC Enclosures.............................. 17
➚ Enhance Floors & More .................27
Before
Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery...........................46
➚ Howard Payne Company ............ 14 ➚ Noland Company ............................ 49 NorthPoint Kitchens ....................... 22 RFS Cabinets ................................ 42
➚ Seven Stone, Inc .......................... 12 Life is better with beautiful countertops
Siding Painting Plus ................................ 22
➚ Rhino Shield ................................ 53
Sod Distributor
AFTER PLUS… Are your block walls bowed? Call us to fix them.
Repair your existing concrete and
SAVE 30-70%
➚ NG Turf ......................................... 55
Staircases
FREE ESTIMATES
All Work Guaranteed
➚ Enhance Floors & More .................27 Southern Classic Floors & More ......5
770-516-4476
Vision Stairways & Millwork ...................Front Cover
www.b-levelse.com
Sunrooms/Screened Porches DC Enclosures.............................. 17
➚ Decks & More............................... 35 Jose's Painting .............................. 4
Good advice is the best tool.
Tile/Ceramic ➚ Enhance Floors & More .................27 Florida Tile .......................................11
➚ MODA Floors & Interiors ............ 42 Southern Classic Floors & More ......5
Tree Services Sesmas Tree Service & Turf Care ................................... 39
Utilities Jackson EMC ................................ 26
Water Garden Splendor Koi & Pond................... 11
Windows/Doors Architectural Visions, Inc. .......... 10 Carolina Lumber & Supply Co. .. 50
➚ Jennifer’s Glassworks ............... 14 Painting Plus ................................ 22 Vision Stairways & Millwork ...................Front Cover
Window Treatments Artéé Fabrics & Home................. 11
➚ MODA Floors & Interiors ............ 42
Call 1-866-LOCATE ACE to find your nearest store or visit us at www.acehardware.com © 2004. Ace Hardware Corporation.
Outdoor Kitchens
Client: AD #: Title: Media: Pubs:
Ace ACEHDW 74 "Pegboard" 4/C pg Various
Prod. Manager: Renata Robinson
Size:
live: 7 1/8” x 9 3/4” trim: 7 3/4” x 10 1/2” bleed: 8 1/2” x 11 1/8”
Digital Artist: Peg Oberste ATLANTA HOME IMPROVEMENT MAY 2016 Art Director: Kris Wixom Copywriter: Engraver:
57
Alisa Sengel XYZ Graphics
Prepared by Goodby, Silverstein & Partners. 2003. All rights reserved. 415-392-0669
4/19/16 10:36 AM
BRING THE ENTERTAINMENT OUTDOORS… Audio and Video that don’t care about the weather
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GENUINE • ORIGINAL • EXCEPTIONAL
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Illuminate the beauty of your home. *10 Lights for $1,695 plus 1 free path light.
Award winning outdoor lighting company with 14 years experience lighting over 5000 Atlanta homes.
iLoveNightVision.com
678-505-1891
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