Not everyone is an expert at landscaping, gardening and home maintenance - but there are clearly people in our area with a lot of knowledge and experience - we'd like to tap into their experience and provide access to advice and tips from people who've already done the same.
Visit our forums to ask for advice on contractors, home improvement tips or anything else you can think of from our neighbors.
Spring Flowers!
Written by Administrator
Monday, 18 May 2009 02:11
For gorgeous spring time flowers plant them in the fall. Plant hyacinth, tulips, daffodils, and hibiscus in the late fall (mid-October until late November) in layers starting about 7 inches deep and every 2-3 inches above the bottom bulbs. Leave them alone until spring. In early spring (approximately mid-February), the daffodils will start to pop through the soil first. When they start to pop up, start to water them two or three times per week. Hyacinth, and hibiscus will start to pop up next. Tulips will start to show by March. After the flowers have bloomed and the leaves have started turning brown, trim the leaves down to soil so that the bulbs will start to regenerate. The flowers will bloom again for another year or two. After three years, it is recommended that the bulbs be dug up and replaced.
Home Tips and Tricks Forum
In addition to the articles below, please visit the forum on this topic for more ideas from your neighbors. Home Tips and Tricks Forum.
Landscape Lining
Monday, 18 May 2009 00:54
Use the plastic sheeting instead of fabric underlayment when landscaping your yard. The fabric underlayment is more expensive and does not keep weeds and volunteers out. Personnel at landscape centers will claim the fabric underlayment is better but it's not.
14x24 Air Filters
Sunday, 17 May 2009 23:36
Some of the Artistic homes use an odd sized air filter for the air ducts that are not available at all home improvement or hardware stores. The size of the air filter is 14"x24"x1".
These size filters can be bought at the following locations:
Lomas True Value
5112 Lomas Boulevard NE Ste B
Albuquerque NM 87710-6452
Or you can make your own filter by modifying a 14"x25"x1" filter. The picture below below shows a 14x24 filter on the left and a 14x25 filter on the right. Notice how the 25" filter is slightly longer than the filter we need.
The 25" filter can be cut with a pair of household scissors. The frames of these filters are 1 inch wide, so just trimm of one of the frames on the short 14 inch side.
This results in a slightly shorter filter.
The manufactured 14x24 filter may not fit into the duct work very will. Notice how the filter bulges inward and the frame buckles because it is a little too large.
The trimmed 14x25 filter fits much more nicely.
One question is how often should I replace my air filter? Well, everyone has different habits. Filters should be replaced once every three months or as necessary (i.e. dirty).
Last Updated on Monday, 18 May 2009 00:54
Thinking About Solar?
Written by Administrator
Tuesday, 28 April 2009 03:55
Were you thinking that your ability to add photovoltaic or solar thermal panels to your home were restricted by the HOA? If so, you're in luck. New Mexico's laws prohibit HOAs from preventing the installation of solar capabilities. It is your "solar right."
Home Improvement Tips & Tricks
