5 Ways to Save Money "and" Stay Warm This Winter!

Saving money these days is on the top of everyone’s list…and the cold weather has already taken hold here on the Northeast. So, today we are going to talk about the various ways you can save money and stay warm this winter!

Too Obvious
We all know the typical ways to save money are installing programmable thermostats or replacing the insulation in your attic with new material, but did you know there are many quick and easy things you can do right now to help you and your family stay warm, while saving money, all winter long!

Try Eating at Home!
This tip doesn’t quite seem like the idea you’d hear every day, but it’s true! Cooking dinner, baking cookies or baking a pie will help heat your home by using the residual heat from your stove to warm you up! (The cookies won’t hurt either!)

Add a Throw Rug or Carpet!
Another simple idea that seems obvious, but some folks don’t consider, is throwing a cozy rug down onto the areas of your home that lose heat through thin or un-insulated flooring. Doing this can help prevent heat loss through the floor and will also provide a warm surface to walk on while in your home.

Dress Warm!
Mom and Dad always said, “Put on an extra sweater” or “Throw on another pair of socks”. They may have been on to something (but we didn’t know it at the time, or we were just too stubborn to listen-LOL!). So, why not pester the kids (and your spouse) to throw on a hooded sweatshirt, some fuzzy socks or a thick robe, your own body heat will rise to keep you warm! Plus, you’ll be able to lower the thermostat a degree or two.

Let the Sunshine In!
Another obvious, yet simple solution? Open your curtains and let the sunshine in! The heat from the Sun will help heat up your home- the natural way - and the best part…it’s free! (Thank you Mother Nature!)

Grab a Furry Friend!
Take a hold of your favorite puppy or kitty-cat and cozy up on the couch! Grab a blanket and the TV remote and let the heat from both your bodies work their magic! You’ll stay warm and get some relaxation-in-at-the-same-time. And while you’re at it…grab one of those cookies you baked earlier and make a whole day of it!

If you have any other tips we may have missed, please feel free to leave us a note below! Suggestions are always welcome! Hey, we don’t know everything!?

Watch the video here:

Your Home Center-Mr & Mrs McFadden Review Your Home Center

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The Mcfadden's talk to us today about Your Home Center and how they came in for a bathroom and decided to re-do their entire kitchen. They loved Your Home Center and felt soooo comfortable when they arrived that remodeling their Kitchen was a no-brainer! Thanks folks!

Your Home Center-Reindeer Gift Bottles

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This Week Katey shows you how to make these adorable reindeer Gift Bottles that ANYONE can make! You can make these before a holiday party to leave on the table OR have the kids make a bunch before you go to grandmas for the holidays and more! All the supplies you need you may already have around the house, but this project will cost you less than $15.00 and they look GREAT! Happy Holidays everyone from Your Home Center!

Your Home Center-Keep Plants Healthy All Winter!

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This week Katey shares some awesome tips for keeping your indoor plants healthy all winter long! Ya know, being shut-in all winter folks are longing to get outside and enjoy the good weather and green grass...but while it is winter here in the northeast you can create a jungle oasis INSIDE till spring comes. So, give a listen to Katey's ideas for keeping the inside of your home more like the outdoors this winter! Share these tips with family and loved ones this year and you'll all live better while shut indoors this winter.

Your Home Center-Kitchen Fun Facts

Did you ever wonder!?! Well, wonder no more! Katey has the answers!

5 Ways to Save Money and Stay Warm This Winter!

Saving money these days is on the top of everyone’s list…and the cold weather has already started here on the Northeast. So, today we are going to talk about the various ways you can save money and stay warm this winter!

 

Too Obvious?

We all know the typical ways to save money are installing programmable thermostats or replacing the insulation in your attic with new material, but did you know there are many quick and easy things you can do right now to help you and your family stay warm, while saving money, all winter long!

Try Eating at Home!

This tip doesn’t quite seem like the idea you’d hear every day, but it’s true! Cooking dinner, baking cookies or a pie will help heat your home by using the residual heat from your stove to warm you up! (The cookies won’t hurt either!)

Add a Throw Rug or Carpet!

Another simple idea that seems obvious, but some folks don’t consider is throwing a cozy rug down onto the areas of your home that lose heat through thin or un-insulated flooring. Doing this can help prevent heat loss through the floor and will also provide a warm surface to walk on while in your home.

Dress Warm!

Mom and Dad always said, “Put on an extra sweater” or “Throw on another pair of socks”. They may have been on to something (but we didn’t know it at the time, or we were just too stubborn to listen-LOL!). So, why not pester the kids (and your spouse) to throw on a hooded sweatshirt, some fuzzy socks or a thick robe, that’ll help your own body heat to rise and keep you warm! Plus, you’ll be able to lower the thermostat a degree or two.

Let the Sunshine In!

Another obvious, yet simple solution! Opening your curtains and letting the sunshine-in will help heat up your home- the natural way - and the best part…it’s free! Thank you Mother Nature!

Grab a Furry Friend!

Take a hold of your favorite puppy or kitty-cat and cozy up on the couch! Grab a blanket and the TV remote and let the heat from both your bodies work their magic! You’ll stay warm and get some relaxation-in-at-the-same-time. And while you’re at it…grab one of those cookies you baked earlier and make a whole day of it!

If you have any other tips we may have missed, please feel free to leave us a note below! Suggestions are always welcome! Hey, we don’t know everything!

YOUR HOME CENTER

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Here's an easy way to transition from Summer to Fall!! Katey walks you through the process step-by step! 

 

Job Openings!

We Have Job Openings!

email resume to: Rhonda@shellsonly.com

Or Call: 631-422-9190

 



RETAIL KITCHEN AND BATHROOM SALES

Experienced in Retail Sales. Must have extensive knowledge of Kitchen, Bathroom, Home Decorating and Design.
Showroom experience, excellent communication skills, problem solver and pleasant customer interaction skills a must.

Clean/Neat/Professional Appearance, a Positive Attitude. 'Closing' Ability mandatory.

SALES MANAGER

This is an excellent opportunity for a proven Sales Manager with 10+ years of Home   Improvement Management experience. This is a long-term, stable position with a well known, established name brand company in the industry.

You must possess an extensive knowledge of modern construction techniques and home improvement methods to be considered. The Sales Manager must be able to communicate ‘best sales practices’ and sales skills that motivate an established sales team to help increase closing ratio.

Applicant must be able to hit the ground running and ready to roll up their sleeves. You must be self motivated, able to motivate a staff, run at a fast pace and posses problem-solving skills with no personal baggage please. This is defiantly not a 9 to 5 position. Competitive salary/benefits package for the right candidate.
 

Mason/Working Foreman

Mason/Working Foreman at a busy Home Improvement Company. Experience with Block Foundations, Rapid Forms, Chimney Raises, Pavers, Cultured Stone, Flat Work and all around Masonry Tech. Dependable/Hard-Worker! Clean Driver License required. Good salary and benefits available.

Carpenter

Carpenters wanted for busy Home Improvement Company. Must have a minimum of 5 years experience building Dormers and Extensions from foundation to completion. Clean drivers license a must! Excellent salary, great working environment.

Your Home Center-Designer versus Decorator

Your Home Center-Clean the Faucets in Your Home! In just 3 Minutes!

YOUR HOME CENTER-Choose the Right Color for any Room!

Designer vs. Decorator (What’s the Difference?)

Folks always ask us, "What's the difference between an “Interior Designer” and a “Decorator”!
 
Ok, well... I’m here to help!

The main differences between the two are…

Interior Design is the art and science of understanding how folks interact with their living space while in their homes, as well as a home’s overall functionality for its residents.

Interior Decoration (or) "Decorating", is the furnishing or beautifying of an individual space in the home. Some would say… enhancing a home with fashionable or attractive things.

To review…, Interior Designers may decorate, but Decorators do not necessarily design.

Some other major differences are…

Interior Designers apply creative and technical solutions that become beneficial to a families quality of life.

Decorators can also be creative but in a more visual and organic way…bringing splashes of color or life to a room.

Important to note, if you’re hiring an Interior Designer to work in your home, please make sure you ask them for their certificate or license as many states have passed laws requiring Interior Designers be licensed to perform this service in your home. (You don't want to break the law just to save a couple of bucks now do you?) Plus, if things go horribly wrong you will not have a legal leg to stand on.

Conversely, Interior Decorators require no formal training or license. It doesn't mean they are not qualified, it just means choose your Decorator carefully!

Have a thought, or individual experience you want to share...Let us know (below)!

 

The Best Way To Clean the Faucets in Your Home!

Sometimes the easiest tasks in your home seem to the most complicated. But it doesn't have to be this way! Especially since cleaning the faucets in your home is so easy!

With a few simple steps and a short list of supplies, you'll be done in no time at all! Either way, using the tips we have outlined (below), your faucets will shine and stay clean longer.

Here’s a list of what you’ll need...
• A Spray Bottle
• Dental Floss and a used Toothbrush (for cleaning those small crevices)
• All Purpose Flour
• Salt
• A can of Cola (for Drinking and for Cleaning!)
• And, some clean Dry Cloth’s

First, let’s determine the type of finish that is on your faucet. Is it Chrome, Nickel, Bronze, Stainless Steel or Copper?


If You're Cleaning a Chrome or Nickel Faucet...

Use white vinegar and water… Spray the entire fixture, allow the mixture to sit on the faucet for
about 5 to 10 minutes and wipe with a clean dry cloth. That’s it!




Cleaning a Copper or Stainless Steel Faucet?

Fill a spray bottle with regular Cola (seriously!). Spray the faucet and let it sit for a few minutes. Rinse with water, gently rub a wet cloth over the surface, then dry the entire faucet with a clean dry cloth. Gentle, Do Not Rub Too Hard as You Will Scratch The Finish.

Are You Cleaning a Brass or Bronze Faucet?

Mix a tablespoon of vinegar, a tablespoon of salt and a tablespoon of all-purpose flour in a small bowl. Wipe on using a gentle buffing motion rather than an intense scrub, then, just dry the faucet thoroughly.


And, don’t forget the Screen! This is often overlooked when cleaning your faucets! Just remove the screen (or aerator) brush with the toothbrush you have set aside for cleaning, rinse and replace!

Use the Dental Floss to reach the spaces under the handles and hard to reach areas to remove soap scum and hard water stains.

We hope these tips were helpful. If you have any other questions or other tips we haven't covered here, please feel free to let us know! Or Log on to www.yourhomecenter.net and drop us a line!

Your Home Center-Customer Review! Robert!

Top 5 ways to get a Streak Free Shine!

You’ve just purchased that brand new mirror for your Living Room, Bathroom or Bedroom and after you get it home, you want to keep it looking great with that streak free shine!

And while there are many ways to get this done, you have to understand there are some variables that impact the appearance of your mirror in your home. What works for some, may not work for others.

First, consider the position of the mirror in your home, the way it absorbs and reflects light. Whether your home is dusty, what the climate is in your area (is it humid, or is it dry) …These are all factors to keeping your windows and mirrors shiny and clean!

So, today we’re going to run down the top 5 ways to clean your mirror to a Streak Free shine…

Number 5!

Distilling!

Distilling is not just for whiskey and bourbon, using Distilled products to clean your glass gets you off to a good start! 

Number 4!

Vinegar!

Using a Distilled Vinegar and Water mix on your mirror works really well! Then go ahead and dress that salad, you’ve got the vinegar out anyway.

Number 3!

Diapers!

Have you potty trained your little one yet, Great! Don’t throw the cloth diapers away, they make great cloths to shine your mirrors! (Nice!)

 

Number 2!

Less is more!

Too much of a good thing can be bad… so don’t use too much cleaner as it will hinder your shining ability! Really! It's true!

And the number 1 way to get a streak free shine on your mirrors…

Coffee!

What!?!

Coffee’ filters’ to be exact! (Now) I’ve never personally tried this method, but if it doesn’t keep the streaks off your mirror (no worries) just grab a cup of coffee and relax! Plus, coffee filters (for the moment anyway) are pretty inexpensive. So no great loss if it doesn't work out!

 

I'm sure there are more ideas...why not share them below with the rest ofthe group!

 

Thanks folks, see you next time!

Flexible Payment Options (what's not to love)

Your Home Center-Tara's Review

In this interview with Tara, she tells us about the best gift she ever received and what she does to pass the time on the weekends.

Choosing the right Cabinets for your Home Improvement Project!

Lee has something on her mind...so we listened!

Tips for adding a Kitchen Island to Your Home

Kitchen Islands Reduce Clutter

Say goodbye to clutter on your countertops! Kitchen appliances like a toaster or coffee maker can be organized and built as part of your new kitchen island. Cookware, utensils, spices, cookbooks, wine and more can all be accommodated in your island. Kitchen Islands can also house a built‑in spice rack, pasta storage containers, knife racks, paper towel holders and more! The possibilities to save counter space are endless!

Kitchen Islands, your new Breakfast Bar

Today’s busy families just love kitchen islands because they can be used as informal places to eat a quick meal before work or school. Kitchen Islands also provide charming areas to sit, eat, chat, pay bills-they can even function as a small buffet table when needed. After school, they make the ideal location for snacks and homework. Having the children stationed at your Kitchen Island leaves your dining room table clear as you prepare for the family dinner.

Kitchen Islands are the Life of the Party

Place food and dishes on the kitchen island when entertaining, this allows your guests to help themselves. Or, turn your island into a bar for serving your guests wine, mixed drinks, or fancy coffees and desserts.  Don’t be surprised when your guests won’t leave – your island is a great gathering and conversation spot!

Choosing the right Material or Finish for your Kitchen Island

Choosing the proper combination of stone, tile and fixtures may seem like a daunting task but remember, there is no right or wrong choice when it comes to your home-that’s what makes you… you! A good rule of thumb is to choose the material that fits within your budget and will provide the durability you need and longevity you expect to protect your investment. Below is a list of material that you can choose to help make your Kitchen Island exclusively yours!

Kitchen Island Countertops can be…

·         Cultured Stone

·         Granite

·         Laminate

·         Natural Stone

·         Stainless Steel

·         Tile

·         Wood

Kitchen Island Finish choices are…

·         Cherry

·         Cottage Oak

·         Distressed Oak

·         Knotty Pine

·         Maple

·         Natural Wood

·         Oak

Kitchen Island Accessories

·         Bar Equipment

·         Bar Sinks and Faucets

·         Cutting Boards

·         Wine Racks and more!

 

Contributing Writer-Kevin Marty 

Gift Idea for Father's Day

How to Choose the Right Countertop? Jill Helps you Decide!

Introducing Jenn

Jenn has some great ideas that'll save you money!

And who doesn't like to save money!?! Right!?!

Stay tuned for the surprise ending!

Burn candles more slowly and save money!

While in our showroom, Darrin asked…

Available in our showroom!

“My wife burns candles all the time! She buys new ones so often, I’m guessing that’s because they burn down so quickly! Is there a way to help candles burn more slowly and save me some money!?!” J

Great question Darrin... Yes, in fact, there are some tips and tricks that will help candles burn more efficiently and help them last longer.

1)       Choose the right candle.
Um, What? Aren’t they all alike? Well not really. Choose a candle that burns more smoothly (not a fancy shape or design). You can also buy candles with multiple wicks, to help them burn evenly.

2)      Refrigerate the candle.
I know, right? Who knew! If you can refrigerate your candles for at least one or two hours prior to lighting that will help slow the burning and melting of the wax. (Make sure you tell your wife you’re doing this first, before she turns the house upside down looking for her favorite illumination device!)

 

3)       Clip the Wick!
Trim the candle's wick before each use to reduce smoking and increase oxygen flow to the candle flame.  (I know very technical right!?!)

4)      Don’t burn your candles too long.
This sounds like the problem you’re having already, right Darrin? The ideal scenario is to only light your candles for 2 to 3 hours at a clip. If you do this, they will definitely last longer!

 

5)      Extinguish your candle safely.
When you finally get her to ‘blow out the candles’, make sure you do it right. Don’t just ‘blow’ the flame out and spread hot-wax everywhere, use a ‘candle snuffer’ to extinguish the flame. They make some great looking, crazy-cool, candle snuffers these days. (Hey, there’s a great gift idea for her too!)

Thanks Darrin…hope that helps!

Keep the questions coming folks…we love to hear from you!

Jill talks to Designers!

Your Home Center-Interview with Jill

How to Clean Granite Countertops

The best way to clean your Granite Countertops without damaging the surface with harsh chemicals or abrasives?

The easiest way to do this is first…, prepare your countertops for proper cleaning by moving appliances and any obstructions so you can clean the entire surface. Next you’ll want to remove surface dirt with warm water, mild dish soap, a sponge and dry with a lint free cloth.
The most important part of cleaning is to remember that you want PH neutral cleaners, ones that do not have any acid or acidic chemicals. At your local dollar store you can purchase a squeeze bottle (if you have a ‘clean’ one on hand, feel free to use that).

Prepare a homemade mixture of warm water (filtered water would be even better), a mild dish-soap and rubbing alcohol. Combine the water, along with three parts dish-soap to one part standard rubbing alcohol (do not use ammonia, vinegar or lemon…”remember the acid rule above”).
Spray a clean, lint-free, white cloth (preferably a cloth that will not lose fibers, like a cloth diaper or microfiber cloth), with the cleaning solution you’ve prepared and wring the cloth out if filled to excess.

Proceed to wipe your counters, (pay extra attention to tough stains, you can use your clean bare hand to rub the stain if need be). After this step is completed it is time to grab a dry cloth (fiber free of course) and dry up the remaining solution. This will also help to ‘buff’ and bring out the shine!

We hope that helps! If you have any further questions please feel free to Contact Us!