Tag Archives: overland park

Avoiding Holiday Fire Hazards

Between scented candles and Christmas trees and electric lights and fireplaces, it’s no wonder the risk for fire increases exponentially during the holiday season. According to www.firesaftey.gov, fires in this short time frame injure 1,650 Americans, causing more than $990 million in damages.

fire

Below, we (literally) spell out some prevention measures to make sure this holiday season is a safe and merry one for you and your family.

Space heaters. Place them at least three feet away from anything flammable. Make sure an adult is in the room when heaters are on. Turn them off when you leave the room or go to sleep. The same goes for burning candles.
Alarms. Install at least one smoke alarm on each floor level of the home, including basements. Test the alarms monthly, and be sure to change batteries at least once a year.
Fires. Never burn unconventional items such as wrapping paper or boxes in the fireplace, as this could cause a chimney fire. Fireplaces are for wood only. The same applies to stoves and ovens—use these strictly for cooking, and not for heating.
Escape. Plan a home escape with two ways out of each room. Practice your exit plan with every member of the family to make sure it works. Invest in fire extinguishers, and know how to use them.
Trees. For artificial trees, only choose flame-retardant ones with a UL label. Cut trees should be watered daily to be kept fresh. Never use real candles on trees. Keep trees at a safe distance from fireplaces, other sources of heat, and doorways. Dispose of trees at an authorized recycling center.
Your lights. Inspect lights for wear and tear, such as frayed wires or gaps in insulation. Periodically check wires—they should not be warm to touch. Connect strings to an extension cord before plugging in.

For more information, visit firesafety.gov to keep your home fire-free this holiday season.

Spotlight on Decks: A Patio Primer

In Kansas City, harsh winters and extreme temperatures mean our porches and decks can take quite a beating. This means putting forth extra time and efforts towards making sure the materials used are extra tough—without sacrificing aesthetics.shellyafter

We’ve designed hundreds of decks and outdoor living spaces in the Kansas City area, so let us help you maximize the potential of your backyard, whether it’s a screened-in porch, room extension, multi-level deck or a hot tub and spa enclosure.

As you begin to settle in for a long winter’s rest, here’s a little primer from our friends at Kansas City Homes & Gardens on some of the most popular (and sustainable!) decking options out there—from mahogany and redwood to cedar or pressure-treated wood.

By Samantha Wells

Amazing Before And Afters

Be sure to see our Gallery for just a few of the transformations we’ve created. If you need even more ideas of the types of things we can do for your home, don’t forget to check our Awards page, too.
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Wintertime Outdoor Living

Looking to extend your outdoor entertaining and BBQ season into the cooler months? Here’s how to create warm, cozy outdoor living rooms this winter:

Outdoor Decorating

  • Think fireside chats. When temperatures dip, is there anything more festive than a crackling outdoor fire? Whether it’s a double-sided fireplace, freestanding firepit or charming chimenea, create a romantic focal point where family and friends can retreat and unwind on a cold winter’s day.
  • Add distinction with decorative elements. Outfit your outdoor living room as you would inside: Place decorative vases on the fireplace mantel. Choose comfortable seating with weather-resistant cushions for lounging. Stock plenty of candles for glass hurricanes, and keep cozy blankets on hand for extra ambiance.
  • Adjust your space for year-round living. Add a spit to the gas grill and use it to roast a Thanksgiving turkey. Heavy-weight curtains employed to block the summer sun can alternatively serve to discourage drafts in winter. Illuminate the space–without making it too glaring–with combination lighting such as lanterns, brick lighting or spread lighting.

What are some of the elements you would install in your ultimate outdoor entertaining spot to add warmth and beauty to your home this winter?

By Samantha Wells