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Solar lights make everything brighter After spring has sprung, more or less, you can turn your attention to your outdoor lighting. While there are other options to choose from, solar-powered lights offer a simple solution to most night-time dilemmas. How they work Outdoor solar lighting is unique because it runs exclusively on solar energy, convert- ing sunlight into electricity. Using a small photovoltaic panel, each light is able to absorb direct sunlight throughout the day, charging its solar cell and energizing its bat- tery in the process. When night falls, these lights will automatically turn on and remain lit anywhere from eight to 10 hours. Because solar-powered lights only work as long as their solar cells receive sunlight, you must place these lights in an area that receives a lot of direct sunlight during the day. Place them away from tall trees, shrubs or anything else that may interfere with their exposure to direct sunlight. How will you benefit? 1. They require minimal maintenance. 2. They provide quality light. 3. Solar lights are cost-effective. 4. They're versatile and can be placed most anywhere sunlight is prevalent. Like other outdoor lighting they are high- lighters, but with more room to roam from electrical wiring.They can outline a side- walk or path, frame your front door, accent your landscaping or garden beds. Solar lighting is available in a variety of shapes and styles, from low-lying path lights to bright task lights. 5. They're good for the environment. They counteract, to a degree, your impact on the environment. The average American will release up to 36,000 pounds of carbon dioxide each year, the leading global warm- ing pollutant. You can minimize your car- bon footprint a bit by swapping your electric outdoor lights for solar lights while also sav- ing money on your electric bill. Of the items you can put into your home, one that can cost you relatively little but save big bucks and time spent on repairs is a gutter. Houses with properly installed and maintained gutters will decrease the likelihood of wood rot to your home's soffits, fascia, caulking or paint. Plus, moving water away from your home is healthy for your foundation. Types of gutters 1. Aluminum gutters are low-mainte- nance and come in a variety of colors to accent your home. They are: ■ The most common gutter product used today in the United States; ■ Never rust or need to be painted; ■ Come in many color options. 2. In comparison, copper gutters add elegance and class to your home. Copper gutters are: ■ Incredibly durable, making it a sound choice for parts of construction that are subject to excessive wear and tear or significant rainfall; ■ Although a bit more expensive than other options, they are longer-lasting and will not need to be repainted or resealed. 3. Meanwhile, steel gutters are strong, durable, long-lasting and can withstand a variety of weather conditions. Choose them if these traits top your list: ■ Durability that makes them more resistant to damage from hail, ice and snow; ■ Resistant to damage from other sources such as ladders or heavy branches. 4. Vinyl gutters will not rust and are easy to cut to size for any home, They are a good choice because they: ■ Weigh very little, making them easy to install; ■ Do not rust nor require painting; ■ The lowest-cost gutters. When it comes to vinyl gutters, keep them cleaned out as leaves and debris can clog them. APRIL 2017 HOMES PLUS 7 REMODEL • REPLACE • RETHINK REMODEL. REPLACE. RETHINK your windows. Bliffert Lumber offers quality products from Marvin ® . Call or visit us today to learn more. Marvin Windows and Doors, Warroad, MN 56763 ©2011 Marvin Windows and Doors. All rights reserved. ® Registered trademark of Marvin Windows and Doors 253767005 548 W. Sunset Dr. Waukesha, WI 53189 (262) 542-6666 www.bliffertlumber.com K i t c h e n s | B a t h s | D e n s | C a b i n s | O f f i c e s | R e c R o o m s Work With Experienced Design Professionals "We Specialize in Cabinetry" 1005 Richards Road, Hartland | 262.367.9439 www.kitchencreators.com Cabinetry For Every Room, Every Budget! WE OFFER: NORCRAFT CABINETRY MID CONTINENT CABINETRY OMEGA CABINETRY DYNASTY CABINETRY WOODLAND CABINETRY 254794003 We Beat All Big Box Stores and all Competitors | Visit Our Showroom By Appointment Make an appointment today and learn about the new trends and cabinet specials. A little rain may fall, but it doesn't have to cause damage Keep in mind they need sunny spot to give hours of light

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