Page 24 THE VILLADOM TIMES II & IV • May 19, 2010 Spring Home Improvement (NAPSI) According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the typical family spends about $1,900 a year on home utility bills. Each year, electricity generated by fossil fuels for a single home puts more carbon dioxide into the air than two cars. Proper insulation, weather stripping, caulking, and using a programmable thermostat will help save money. Trees, shrubs, and plants will make a difference, too. In fact, the government says shading from trees can reduce surrounding air temperatures as much as nine degrees. That saves money on air-conditioning costs. Shrubs placed near the base of the house can lower the wind chill near the home in the winter. Trees and shrubs additionally absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen into the air. Things to consider: • Check with your local nursery or cooperative extension service for advice on the best trees for your home and your specific needs. For example, you shouldn’t plant an ash tree in an area that’s under quarantine from a devastating insect called the Emerald Ash Borer. Reduce cooling and heating costs with landscaping Decorating & LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION, INC. Full Service Landscape Professionals since 1978 E � ����������� • Deciduous trees, the kind that have full canopies during the hot summer months, should be planted on the east and west sides of the house to help keep it cool in the summer and allow the sun to shine in the windows in the winter. • The Department of Energy says shading the air-conditioning unit can increase its efficiency by as much as 10 percent. • Plant trees a minimum of 10 feet from your house to prevent overcrowding or damage to your home from roots. • Space trees and shrubs according to what they’ll look like when fully grown, not what they look like now. “Trees are investments that need protection from destructive insects like beetles and borers,” says Lance Walheim, Bayer Advanced™ Garden Expert and co-author of “Landscaping for Dummies.” “Preventing insect problems can save your trees and save you money in the long run.” Paul Banach Construction, LLC Home Remodeling Waldwick • 201-689-0765 • Windows • Doors • Garage Doors • • Finish Carpentry • Crown Moldings, Cabinetry, Walk-In-Closets, etc... • Kitchen & Bathroom Renovations • LANDSCAPE DESIGN CUSTOM LANDSCAPE MASONRY IRRIGATION AND LIGHTING FULL SERVICE PROPERTY MAINTENANCE ESIGN CENTER 413 Godwin Avenue, Midland Park • 201.891.1199 ANDSCAPE G ALLERY AND GARDEN S 11 Barnstable Court, Saddle River • 201.825.4440 www.jacobsenlandscape.com Take advantage of the Energy Tax Credit in 2010 www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_tax_credits Speak to your tax advisor to ascertain if you qualify, as these credits will make a project more economical for you! 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