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Start a Toolbox for Your Child to Give Lifelong Help

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 02:26:12 GMT

As a parent, you are undoubtedly interested in preparing your children for a successful life on their own. While there are many facets to this - including preparing them financially, educationally, and emotionally - some of the more practical aspects of being an adult may fall through the cracks in today's busy and technologically focused world.

One timeless and practical preparation key is helping your child learn how to operate basic tools and start their own toolbox. To help you get started, here are five essential tools to work with alongside your child - and an idea where to go next.

Hammer

The humble hammer is still one of the most widely used and practical tools anyone can use. Teach your child from a young age how to properly swing a hammer and hit targets. Small hammers with synthetic handles are great for younger kids or those with less upper body strength, so take them with you to buy any hammers intended for little hands. Get high quality, adult hammers as they take on more serious projects.

Screwdrivers

Next to the hammer, the screwdriver is one of the most used elements of a tool box. Get your little one a small screwdriver set that includes flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers of various sizes. Let them start helping out around the house when things need to be tightened, replaced, or removed.

Knife

Most young children shouldn't handle knives until they get older, of course. But a knife will be an important part of any toolbox as kids get older and especially as they move out. Look for age-appropriate knives and small ways they start cutting as necessary. Teach proper care, use, and respect of all blades. The teenage years are probably a good time to gift your kids a pocket knife or utility blade, either for their own use or as part of their designated toolbox.

Pliers

Pliers will come in handy more than most people expect. They run the gamut, from delicate needle-nose pliers that your child can maneuver, crimp, and strip small parts with, to vise grip pliers that serve as an extra hand. Teach kids to use pliers as a go-to tool to loosen and tighten items, clamp on things, and protect their hands.

Cordless Drill

Once your child knows the basics about screws, nails, bolts, and cutting things, it's time to introduce them to the labor-saving cordless drill. Opt for a good quality brand of cordless tools and stick with it. As a starter drill, you may want to buy a smaller voltage drill - perhaps 12 volt - to make sure it's not too heavy for kids to work with.

Specialty Items

As you work with your child over the years, you'll get a sense of what their individualized needs are through their interests. A kid with a fondness for working with woods may benefit from adding sanding equipment. If he or she is a little more interested in wiring and tech, a soldering gun is a must-have.

No matter what home or hobby activity they enjoy in the garage - from upcycling backyard treasures to tinkering on their first car - you can foster it by adding specialized tools just for them.

When you are ready to start finding some tools for your child's essential tool kit, visit the inventory at Lyon's Lumber Co . We have a wide variety of powered and non-powered tools so that you can find the right pieces for every member of your family. The gift you give your child will surely offer them self-reliance and resiliency. Visit today to learn more.

Windows and Doors Are Important to Your Home Security

Wed, 23 Jan 2019 09:02:50 GMT

Improved home security begins with strengthening weak areas throughout your home. Doors and windows need to be as durable and break-in proof as possible if you are going to feel safer when you lock up at night and each time you leave the residence.

Not all criminals care about being quiet when they break in. In fact, the louder a criminal is, the more worrisome the situation can be. A loud criminal may be high on drugs, in the middle of a mental breakdown, or feel they have nothing to lose. This type of criminal will pose the greatest risk to your safety.

There is an upside to a criminal being loud and that is it gives you more time to call the police and hide or get out of the house safely. The information below will educate you on ways you can make it more difficult for a criminal to enter your home, giving you more time to react.

Doors Must Be Solid

Hollow doors make it easy for a criminal to bow the door inward and pop it open through force. Hollow doors can also be kicked through and even if the door doesn't open, the criminal can crawl through the door. Have your hollow doors replaced with solid wood doors to enhance your home security. Verify the doors have high-quality deadbolts on them to prevent crafty criminals from picking the lock to enter.

Door Frames Must Be Strong

A door is only as secure as the frame it is attached to. When you have your new wood doors installed, verify the frames are free of previous damage or weak areas. Otherwise, the door may hold up well if a great deal of pressure is applied to it, but the frame won't hold out. As soon as the frame separates from the wall, the criminal can enter the house.

Garage Doors Must Be Secure

Garages are often chosen as the point of entry for many criminals because the garage is closed off from the house by a door most people keep shut. This allows criminals to enter the garage without being seen or heard, then they can steal what they want from the garage.

Criminals can also take their time getting into the home using the entrance door to the house. Since they will be working from inside the garage, they won't have to worry about neighbors or people driving by reporting them. Replace the entrance door from the garage with a solid wood door with a quality deadbolt to prevent burglars from entering your home from the garage.

Replace older automatic garage door openers with newer ones. The newer technology will automatically change the codes regularly, so criminals can't hack the system with their own remote-control.

Windows Must be Durable

Windows are one of the easiest areas to break in to most homes. Criminals may rarely use rocks or other nearby heavy objects to break the glass of the window. However, more often they will use your window's loose frame to push the window open or remove it entirely.

Safety glass can prevent criminals from breaking the window. Double-paned windows even make it more difficult and louder for criminals to break through the window. New windows and frames with high-quality locks help prevent criminals from breaking into your home through a window by securing the frame.

If you're ready to get started on improving your home's security by having more secure doors and windows installed, then you should contact us now . We are here to discuss your needs and to help you select the best ones for your needs and to install them for you.

Why Paint Your Home's Exterior a Light Color

Thu, 22 Nov 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The type of siding you have on your home determines how frequently your home's exterior needs to be painted. Wood siding, for example, should be repainted every three to seven years , while brick paint jobs can last upwards of a decade.

Whether you want to paint your home's exterior for personal enjoyment or to preserve your home's siding, the right paint color is key to keeping your home's curb appeal fresh, modern, and inviting. If you're stuck on what hue to paint your home's outside, consider classic white, light gray, or other lighter colors. Here are reasons why light tones are best for your home's exterior.

You Hide Minor Siding Flaws

Any cracks, blemishes, dents, stains from mold or mildew, or missing siding panel issues will not alleviate themselves with a fresh coat of paint. However, lighter paint colors will diminish the appearance of minor siding flaws to give your home a more renovated, well-kept appeal. Softer colors reflect light, allowing blemishes to be more hidden by visual trickery.

Before painting your home's exterior, power wash your siding and fill large cracks or crevices with cement putty or other filler. You can buy your paint and hardware supplies from your local lumberyard or home improvement store.

You Highlight Landscape Features

The main reason for painting your home's exterior is to add curb appeal. Your home isn't the only part of your property that improves with fresh paint, however. The surrounding landscape benefits as well.

What are the main focal points you want highlighted in your yard? A decorative rock garden near your front entryway? A charming stone walking path? If you paint your home a too-dark hue, like navy or brick red, the focal points in your main yard get lost in the rich color tones.

Lighter paint colors, like eggshell white, buttercream yellow, and pastel shades of darker colors, create a soft backdrop for your landscape features. Your home blends into the background, allowing your landscape to become the best focal point of your property.

You Highlight Dimensional Home Features

A lighter color will make your home's unique features stand out. An ornate glass door, window shutters, bump-out additions or bay windows, and other home features are given grander appeal when you select a lighter shade for your entire home.

The key to painting your home a lighter color to highlight the property itself is this: select the same color for the entire main part of the home's exterior, then choose a neutral dark color - consider slate gray, navy, or rich brown - for all trim work. Your home is given a more clean, uniform appeal without appearing too busy.

You Stay Trendy

Color trends come and go. A classic neutral shade of tan, cement gray, or another light tone for your home's exterior allows you to stay on top of decorative trends. Your home's exterior is also less likely to clash with interior renovations and style upgrades as trends change, allowing you to keep your current paint color until your siding choice indicates it's time for a paint touch-up.

When painting your home's exterior, the finish you choose for your paint job is as important as the paint color itself. Finishes vary from a high gloss to a pure matte design; speak to your painting specialist to see which type of finish is best for your home. A slight sheen is easy to clean and reflective, creating an ideal finish for your home's lighter shade.

Always use paint designed for outdoor use on your home. Our paint mixing specialists will select the right color and finish for your home’s exterior and help you select the right amount of paint for the job. Visit us at Lyons Lumber Co. today.

Design Ideas fora Rustic-Style Patio

Tue, 02 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Rustic design features an emphasis on nature-inspired beauty by incorporating natural materials, especially wood and stone. While informal, the rustic style can convey an ambience of homey elegance. The design style is ideal for outdoor spaces, such as the patio. A rustic patio can complement different house styles, including ranch, contemporary, and cabin.

Wood Flooring

The flooring of your patio sets the tone for the style. One option is to have wood flooring installed. While you can use standard lumber or even reclaimed hardwood, you'll get increased durability with a hardwood such as ipe. Also known as Brazilian walnut, ipe is a hardwood commonly used for decking. Properly maintained, an ipe floor can last decades.

Wooden Pergola

Incorporating shade ensures your patio gets use even in the sunniest parts of the day. If you don't want to cover your patio completely, consider a wooden pergola. Such an installation is ideal over dining or hot tub areas. You could choose rough-hewn logs for a strong rustic appeal. However, a simple construction with stained boards also conveys that homey ambience.

You can incorporate many different elements with your pergola. For example, you could replace the traditional board top with a lattice screen. Reed or slatted wood screens on the sides also help create a shady nook. Likewise, many homeowners either train plants to grow over the wood or install hooks to hang planters from the beams.

Ceiling Beams

Many homeowners incorporate a ceiling over at least part of their patio - for example, over their outdoor kitchen. Wooden beams are a common element of rustic décor. Consider having exposed wooden beams installed in your ceiling. The goal is to replicate the rustic look of a log cabin ceiling. Indeed, you could visit a lumber yard to find beams that match your vision.

Stone Fireplace

A fireplace is an excellent way to convey a sense of hominess. An outdoor fireplace can be part of an outdoor kitchen or lounge area. New technology in fireboxes means you have increased potential for where you locate the fireplace. For example, you could have it stand alone as an informal barrier at one end of your patio.

The classic material for a fireplace is stone. You can have the entire structure built of stone or cover a concrete fireplace with a stone veneer. Since your goal is to create a rustic atmosphere, avoid the mortared, formal stone look. Instead, consider stacked stone for the façade. A stacked stone fireplace gives the illusion that you may have even built it yourself.

Rustic Light Fixtures

On the practical side, you'll need to incorporate lighting as part of your patio design. Layered illumination is the standard of lighting, so plan to install fixtures on the wall, ceiling, and around the perimeter. Look for fixtures that look like they've been rescued from the family farm, such as lantern-style lights. Indeed, a distressed finish furthers that found-object appeal.

Transitional Landscaping

Your patio is a transitional area, as it is the threshold from indoor to outdoor living. Therefore, you want the patio to feel like a natural extension of both the house and the yard. Transitional landscaping can help you achieve this effect.

The goal is to recreate the feeling of a patio located in nature. So you'll want to block the view of fencing or other standard backyard features. You can do this with naturalistic plantings of native plants and trees. Use the landscaping as a screen so that your view from the patio is primarily of plant life.

Porch Swing

A wooden porch swing can make a charming addition to a rustic patio. Look for one that appears to be constructed from rough-hewn wood, or consider making the swing a do-it-yourself project. Locate the wooden swing so that you get a good view of your transitional landscaping.

Create a welcoming ambience to your outdoor living with a rustic-style patio. Visit Lyons Lumber Co. for the materials you need to create your rustic patio.

Which Paint Finish Is Right for Your Home's Interior?

Thu, 26 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Painting your home's interior is a cost-effective way to upgrade your living space. You may have already decided on the paint you want and now you're ready to purchase your paint and start revamping your home's interior walls.

Before you have paint mixed, you need to know the type of finish you want. The finish is the sheen that paint colors give off, especially when light is shone on them. Some paints are shinier than others and therefore more appropriate with certain colors or applied in particular rooms.

Here is a guide to help you choose the best finish for your interior paint depending on your needs and desires for each room.

Matte

A matte paint finish gives off little or no sheen at all, providing a flat, even reflection when light is shone on it. Matte finishes can be applied in any room but are best when put in darker paints where you want the natural tone of your custom colors to stand out.

Matte paint finishes are somewhat forgiving. Because this type of paint finish doesn't reflect much light, any flaws in your walls, such as scratches or uneven texturing, will be hidden if you choose matte for your paint application. Choose a matte finish for larger rooms where lighting is not a concern.

However, matte walls are harder to clean than higher-gloss finished walls are, so keep this in mind if you have pets or children in the home who might frequently touch the walls with messy hands or dirty fur.

Eggshell

Eggshell paint finish is named for an actual egg. An egg is mainly matte in appearance but has a low sheen when light is shone on it. Eggshell may be the best paint finish for your home project if you cannot decide whether a gloss or matte finish is best for your needs.

Eggshell is slightly easier to clean than matte paint is. This finish is ideal for bedrooms and guest areas adorned in any paint color. Pastels and muted paint colors respond well to an eggshell paint finish.

Semi-gloss

A highly reflective paint finish, semi-gloss is ideal for rooms that have plenty of natural light already, such as living areas, dining rooms, and kitchens. Because this paint finish is highly reflective, use semigloss in paint colors that are light and bright, such as white, salmon, dusty rose, and mint green.

You can also use a semi-gloss in jewel tones, such as turquoise or eggplant, but keep in mind that the more reflective a paint is, the less color saturation you get in a room. This can be negative when you are decorating in darker paint tones.

Semi-gloss paint finishes have the added bonus of being extremely easy to clean, so keep this finish in mind when painting a bathroom, kitchen, or dining area that needs regular maintenance.

High Gloss

The shiniest of all paint sheen applications, a high gloss is often used in accent painting, such as for baseboards, trim, and interior doors. Because high gloss paint is very reflective, only apply this style of paint finish on walls or other parts of your home that are free of cracks and other flaws. Otherwise, flaws will stand out, especially when under any kind of lighting.

High gloss paint is perhaps the easiest to keep clean, so children's rooms, kitchens, and other areas of the home that get frequent use will benefit from this paint finish.

Before painting your home's interior, speak with our painting specialist to find the right finish for your project. See us at Lyon's Lumber today for all your home renovation needs.

Expand Living Space in a Tiny Home With a Porch or Sunroom

Sat, 02 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

One way to increase your tiny home's living space is by making use of the space you have outside. Exterior living spaces, via porches and sunrooms, provide just the right amount of extra-room that many homeowners crave. Get creative and pick up building materials and hardware to augment your tiny home with an outdoor space that you and those close to you will enjoy spending time in.

Keep Things Simple

If you want to start enjoying your new outdoor space by the weekend, then keep it simple. Go with an overhead structure that has a roof. Then buy lumber and materials to frame-up your project. This is an easy and inexpensive DIY project, but if you lack building expertise, you can get it done quickly by hiring a contractor.

Buy What You Need

An even-faster approach is to buy a prefabricated storage shed, pergola, or outdoor structure that can be converted to a clever and cohesive four-season space. This structure can be attached or adjacent to your primary structure. Greenhouse frames also make an efficient structure that can be used as a sheltered, outdoor space.

While some vendors may deliver and set-up your structure for free, others may not, so remember to figure in the costs of having your purchase delivered to your property.

Go Custom

Work with a carpenter that specializes in custom projects to optimize the space outside and around your tiny home. Visit lumber retailers that offer custom millwork that fits your needs, and is cohesive with the primary structure that you are augmenting.

Try to Be Green

Make your porch or sunroom an environmentally-friendly project by using recycled materials to save money and reduce your carbon footprint. It is possible to build a cool and contemporary sunroom from salvaged windows, purchasing or recycling lumber to frame your space. Old barn wood is always a good find, but it may be a better accent or finishing material.

Go Up

It may be possible to execute a two-story porch, particularly if your tiny home has a loft, gambrel, or high-pitch. This won't be as feasible in homes on axles that are mobile but can add significant storage potential for homeowners. Talk to a contractor about plans, or visit retailers for lumber, supplies, and scaffolding

Consider Permanence

Is your tiny home permanently situated or are you mobile? This makes a big difference in the mostpractical approach for your home's living space. For example, fold-down porches are easily moved for non-permanent tiny home situations, only requiring basic skills and lumber to implement.

You can go a bit bigger than the standard three-foot-square fold-down porches seen on many tiny houses; consider fold-downs for the entire length of your home, rather than the width, for space that you can lounge and move-around on.

Get Cozy

If you are concerned that your sunroom or addition will be chilly during inclement weather, then your addition could be the ideal spot for a fireplace. The fireplace could be enough heat to warm spaces with only half-walls or partitions in some milder climates. Again, this is an endeavor that is reserved for tiny homes in permanent locations.

Creating Connections

f there is more than one tiny home or property on your lot, consider adding an open-air sunroom to connect two structures, two homes, or even two storage trailers. Many tiny homeowners are finding that two tiny houses are far better than one, and the sunny, glassed-in space between is the perfect breezeway adding additional footage to their home.

Visit Lyons Lumber Co. to find exactly what supplies you need to add to your tiny home. A porch or sunroom can provide enough extra space for entertaining, everyday living, and your future needs.

When To Use Pressure Treated Lumber And When To Avoid It

Wed, 04 Apr 2018 00:00:00 GMT

When it comes to choosing the right lumber for a specific home project, the decision begins with the type of wood. All lumber, from the common 2x4 to specialty marine plywood, is either pressure treated or not. Pressure treated wood does last longer without rotting and resists insect damage, but it's not right for every purpose either.

Not sure whether you need pressure treated wood or should avoid it for a particular use? Learn when to use both types of lumber, so your project goes smoothly, lasts as long as possible, and puts you and your family at as little risk as possible.

Direct Contact with a Source of Moisture

Use pressure treated wood in any situation where there's direct contact between the wood and anything that could supply moisture. This means posts in contact or buried underground obviously, but it also includes any lumber touching concrete or masonry since it's porous and wicks water like a sponge.

As long as there's a good chance that moisture can reach the wood, it should be pressure treated. This is why the International Building Code requires that siding and structural lumber used for the last six inches of the structure above the ground is pressure treated. Subflooring in the kitchen and bathroom may also be pressure treated since water leaks are common in these rooms and subflooring is inaccessible to the residents.

Opportunity for Contact with People and Pets

So if pressure treated wood resists the damaging effects of moisture and insects, why isn't it used for your entire home? It's because the chemicals used to pressure treat wood aren't safe for humans. You can find arsenic in all older pressure treated lumber and some new materials, while copper is widely used in even the newest pressure treatment formulas.

If you touch the wood and pick up these chemicals and then rub your eyes or eat some food, you could ingest something that could make you sick over time. This is why non-pressure treated wood is still required for use indoors, and why builders recommended that you only use pressure treated lumber for the support structure of a deck and switch to untreated wood for the surface.

Any location where pets and kids spend time regularly should be built with non-treated wood. This includes play sets, decks, raised beds in gardens, and more. Using a naturally rot-resistant wood, like cedar is a better compromise that is potentially putting your loved ones at risk for serious health problems.

Sealant to Increase Safety

Of course, sometimes you just can't build something safely without using pressure treated lumber. It's better to use treated lumber and know your deck will be secure in a few years than try to use untreated wood for the supports and watch them rot away rapidly. If you're using pressure treated lumber and are concerned about its risks, applying an oil-based sealant is the best protective measure.

Oil-based sealants have been shown to limit the amount of arsenic, copper, and other compounds reaching the surface of the wood. Since the primary risk from treated wood involves touching the surface to transfer the chemicals, a suitable sealant is enough to protect you and your family.

There's no need to worry about making treated wood safer that is completely covered in other materials and hidden from access, such as subflooring. Pressure treated wood doesn't release any gases or particulates that could harm you and your family. If you're not touching the wood or exposed to its sawdust, there's basically no risk.

Regardless of whether you need pressure treated or untreated lumber for your project, we have both types in stock in every size and shape here at Lyons Lumber Co .

Need New Blinds? 4 Things You Should Consider First

Fri, 02 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Since window treatments are one of the only indoor fixtures that are partially visible from the street, you might be more than a little nervous about choosing the right blinds for your home. Fortunately, by knowing what to look for, you can streamline your shopping experience. Here are four things you should consider before investing in new blinds for your home.

Desired Light Level

One of the first things you will need to decide when you shop for blinds is the desired level of light inside of your place. While some people like blinds or shutters that let the light pour in, others like window treatments that block the harsh rays of the sun.

Keep in mind that larger slats will let more light in, while smaller slats create more of an ambient glow inside of your home. Additionally, some blinds are better behind things like curtains, so if you intend to hang some, ask the window treatment professionals you work with which ones would be best.

Your Energy Bill

In addition to filtering the light into your home, blinds can also be a powerful source of energy savings. Since some blinds are made of solid wood and others are created to provide insulating pockets of air against the window, the blinds you choose could help you to cut down on your monthly power bill.

In fact, honeycomb blinds have been shown to shield as much as 62% of heat transfer, keeping carefully heated air indoors during the winter and heat-generating UV light outside during the summer. If energy savings is a priority for you, look for window treatments with blackout technology or a high R-Value.

Décor Aesthetic

Unfortunately, even the most energy efficient blinds might cause buyer's remorse if you can't stand to look at them. Before you head to the window treatment store, think carefully about your home décor and design aesthetic. As you shop, look for blinds that would meld with your style.

For example, if you have a clean, modern home, honeycomb shades might lend a gentle touch to the windows, while large, wooden slats may throw off the look of your home. To make the shopping process easier, take note of the materials used throughout the rest of your home, including hardware, crown molding, and trim.

Consider matching materials and color shades if you can to make your blinds blend in. For instance, if you have white trim and crown molding throughout your home, white wooden blinds might be the perfect addition.

Your Cleaning Commitment

Those newly installed blinds might look gorgeous now, but after a few months, you might be faced with a serious Saturday cleaning project on your hands. Over time, dust and debris build up on window treatments, and kids with sticky hands and curious fingers can make a mess of your blinds fast.

When you shop for blinds, think carefully about your personal commitment to cleaning, and what you are willing to do when it comes to your blinds. Keep in mind that some blinds have special cleaning needs because they are made from porous materials like wood.

After you have an idea of what you are willing to do when it comes to your blinds, look for window treatments that match your level of commitment. For example, if you have a busy lifestyle and a packed schedule, consider picking blinds that are easy to wipe down in a hurry. On the other hand, if you like a more formal look and have the time to handle more in-depth deep cleanings, shop to your heart's content without worry.

When you have an idea of the blinds you want for your home, visit Lyons Lumber Co. In addition to carrying a wide array of building materials including premium lumber, fasteners, and shingles, this friendly hardware store also offers a massive selection of high-end paints, window treatments, hand tools, cleaning supplies, and light fixtures.

6 Reasons to Choose Plantation Shutters for Your Windows

Fri, 06 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

If you're ready to change the window treatments in your home and you want something that looks elegant and requires little maintenance, then you should look into plantation shutters. These wood shutters are custom-made for your windows and they're available in a variety of colors and wood stains so you can match the shutters to the rest of your décor.

Here are a few more reasons you should consider installing plantation shutters .

1. The Shutters Fit Windows of All Shapes

You can put plantation shutters on all the windows in your home for a uniform appearance throughout. This even gives your home enhanced curb appeal from the outside.

The shutters are customized, so they fit arched windows, small windows, doors with lever handles, round windows, and window walls. This allows you to put the shutters in every room of your home, even bathrooms that have small windows with unusual shapes.

2. Plantation Shutters Let in Light But Maintain Privacy

The louvers on plantation shutters can be placed at any angle so just the right amount of light enters your home. When the shutters are closed, all light is blocked for complete privacy and ease of sleeping during the day.

When you're ready to let light flood in, you can open the louvers fully or open the shutters themselves to let in as much light as you like. Shutters are even designed so you can close the lower portion to give you privacy but open the top half to let in sunlight.

3. Wood Plantation Shutters Are Easy to Keep Clean

Unlike cloth draperies, plantation shutters are not magnets for pet hair and dust. This is a nice benefit if someone in your home has allergies. The wood is easy to clean by dusting them regularly just as you do the rest of your home.

Also, since the shutters swing or fold open, it is easy to reach all areas of the shutters to clean them, and it makes it easy to clean your windows thoroughly as well.

4. Some Models Can Be Controlled Remotely

If you like to keep up with the latest technology, then you'll like plantation shutters that you control remotely. These can be programmed to open and close at various times of the day. This allows you to open the louvers automatically each morning, or make sure the shutters are closed when night falls.

You can even press a button and all the shutters in your home will open or close simultaneously. Remote operation is a handy feature to have, but it isn't necessary. The louvers can also be operated manually, and it is done without the need for unsightly and dangerous cords like those found on traditional blinds.

5. Plantation Shutters Can Help With Climate Control

Plantation shutters can also help maintain the comfort in your home. When they're closed, they act as additional insulation that keeps out chilly drafts in the winter. The closed shutters block UV rays in the summer so your home stays cooler.

Since the shutters are made to fit snugly into the window openings, light and air won't seep around the corners as happens with traditional blinds or drapes. This helps keep warm air inside during the winter and hot air outside during the summer.

6. Plantation Shutters Add Beauty to Your Home

All of these benefits of plantation shutters are enticing, but the best reason of all to have them put in your home is their classic beauty. Whether they are open or closed, they add a touch of luxury to your home.

A room or home full of the shutters creates a look that nothing else can match, especially when they are open to a stunning outdoor view. However, if you're not sure you want to give up traditional drapes, you can certainly add them alongside the shutters or simply top the shutters with a decorative valance.

When you're ready to add these attractive and functional shutters to your home, the first step is to call Lyons Lumber for an in-home consultation with a design specialist.

Lumber as a Renewable Resource

Mon, 07 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Lumber has always been a staple in the construction industry, and it’s becoming an ever-more popular material in homes and businesses. Lumber gives any space a contemporary yet luxurious and warm ambaince, but you may be worried about its sustainability.

If you want to incorporate more wood in your home, read on to learn how it could actually be the most sustainable building material you could choose and how to make sure it’s 100% eco-friendly.

Wood Is a Completely Renewable Resource

When harvested properly, wood is much more sustainable than its metal alternatives. Materials like steel and aluminum also require a lot more energy to produce. Forests can be carefully planted, harvested and replanted to produce a consistent stream of resources without negatively impacting the environment.

Sustainable timber must be planted and harvested in very specific ways in order to retain its eco-friendly status. Clearcutting, the practice of removing all the trees in an area, is prohibited. Instead, buffer zones of trees that will not be harvested are planted around any bodies of water to prevent erosion. In eco-friendly timber operations, regeneration is a priority. That means trees are replanted as quickly as they are harvested and harvest levels do not exceed what can be sustained.

Great care is also taken in protecting any fragile ecosystems in the area. Areas that are known habitats for animals and plants are left to flourish, and forest managers turn their attention to planting and harvesting elsewhere. Responsible forest managers also ensure that they maintain the natural plant diversity and water quality in the areas they are planting and harvesting.

Wood Is Easily Recycled and Repurposed

Timber is one building material very conducive to recycling and repurposing. Extra lumber ordered for construction can be used for other projects or by other builders. Pallets, old barn wood and old hardwood floors can be repurposed into countless furnishings, including tables, wine racks, headboards and shelving, just to name a few.

You can find wood to recycle at salvage yards, through remodeling contractors and by placing ads for reclaimed lumber. If you offer to do all the labor, like loading the wood and hauling it away, you can often get it for free or at a deep discount. If you want to fill your home with the warmth of timber in the most sustainable ways possible, reclaimed wood is the way to go.

Eco-Friendly Wood Is Verifiable

If you’re concerned about whether the lumber being used for your home’s construction is coming from a sustainable forest, make sure that the lumber is certified. Certification by entities like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) guarantee the lumber was harvested in responsibly managed forests.

These programs are committed to conservation and prioritize biodiversity, forest regeneration and the protection of wildlife and their habitats. Groups like these also make their work completely transparent. Their audit summaries (provided by third-party, accredited certifiers) are available to the public.

You can also look for the chain-of-custody certification, which tracks the timber’s journey in its entirety. You’ll know every step from forest to furniture. This paper trail provides concrete evidence that the lumber came from a sustainable forest.

Verified sustainable lumber is, unfortunately, often more expensive than other options. However, with more businesses committing to these standards, those prices are coming down.

Finding a lumber supplier who is transparent about where their wood comes from is most important when it comes to protecting the environment while still enjoying the beauty and comfort lumber brings to a home.

Here at Lyons Lumber , we take pride in conducting our business ethically and lawfully with honesty and integrity. We value the concerns of our customers and are happy to provide you with all the information you need about our lumber and other building supplies.

4 Reasons To Choose Timber Windows For Your Home

Fri, 23 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

If you need to replace the windows on your home, then you have probably given a lot of thought to which material will make the best choice. There is a wide range of different styles available and it can be difficult to evaluate the benefits and disadvantages involved with each type.

Timber was once the only material available for windows but modern materials such as aluminum and vinyl have become more commonly used in recent decades. While both materials have their benefits, timber windows are well worth considering as an option for your home. Here are four excellent reasons why timber is a great choice for your home's new windows.

1. Timber Is A Highly Sustainable Product

Timber is arguably the most sustainable choice when it comes to building materials. Timber is an abundantly available natural resource that is completely renewable. Most timber used these days comes from plantations or sustainable forests, with trees that are harvested for timber being replaced with new growth.

Timber has a very low carbon footprint because it doesn't require a great deal of processing to create a usable building material. The manufacturing of timber products produces very limited amounts of emissions that can damage the environment. As trees grow, they also capture and store carbon from the air which is another boost for timber's eco-credentials.

2. Timber Provides Excellent Insulation

Timber has naturally high insulation properties. The internal structure of the wood contains small air pockets which provide an effective barrier against the transfer of heat and cold. Timber is around 1700 times more effective as insulation than aluminum.

While timber windows are slightly more expensive than aluminum or vinyl windows, the cost will be recouped over time with savings made on heating and cooling your home. It's possible to buy insulated aluminum and vinyl windows, but these are more expensive than the uninsulated varieties which makes the price comparison with timber windows negligible.

3. Timber Is A Durable Material

Although timber may be commonly seen as a material that isn't as durable as sturdier modern materials, this is, in fact, a fallacy. Timber will consistently outlast many other materials and has a lifespan of more than 100 years in many applications.

On average, vinyl windows will last between 20 to 40 years and aluminum windows between 15 and 20 years. Timber has a comparative lifespan of around 30 years. However, with good upkeep and maintenance, they can stay functional and attractive for a far longer time.

4. Timber Is Naturally Beautiful

One of the main attractions of timber building materials is the warmth and beauty they add to a home. They can be painted in any color you desire or they can be left unpainted to let you enjoy the natural beauty of the wood. Timber is also wonderful to touch with a warm and smooth surface that can't be replicated by even the most attractive aluminum or vinyl finishes.

Timber windows also add charm and character to a home. Stunning period homes can have their appearance and attractiveness negatively impacted by the addition of non-traditional window styles. Conversely, an unremarkable modern house can be transformed into an appealing and aesthetically pleasing home by adding stylish timber windows.

If you think that timber may be the ideal material for your home's new windows, then contact the team at Lyon's Lumber Co. They have a large selection of windows available in different styles and sizes to select from. They can also custom make timber windows to your exact specifications if you want to create a look for your home that's unique, elegant and timeless.

What to Look for in a New Front Door

Fri, 24 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Your front door says a lot about your tastes and attitudes, and it's also one of the most important parts of a house's appearance. There's also a lot more that goes into these widely underestimated architectural features than meets the eye.

Insulation

Doors and windows have long been known as a major point of heat or air conditioning loss. Contemporary front doors have many innovative features to help keep the weather out, from durable seals to insulated cores.

Material

A heavy wooden door can provide a sense of weight and security, while metals and other contemporary materials are a little easier on the pocketbook. Your initial choice of materials will also determine how easy it will be for you to refinish your door down the line.

Style

A door with multiple panels is great for many architectural styles, such as neoclassical or Victorian homes. A bungalow might be better suited by a plain door with a small window. The perfect fit for a Kentucky modern home might incorporate long panels or be simple and unadorned.

The door you choose should work for you personally as well as working visually and practically for your home. It's the first thing you'll see when you get home, after all. To find the perfect door, review your options and get advice from Lyons Lumber and Hardware.

When to Replace Your Windows

Thu, 29 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMT

As a homeowner, making sure that your windows are maintained is just a regular part of home upkeep. If you have an older home or if it’s been awhile since you’ve replaced your windows, you may want to start paying close attention to their condition. After all, it may be time to replace them.

Are They Working Properly?

One of the first questions you should ask yourself is how are your windows performing? If you find it hard to open or close your windows, then it may be time to look at something new. The same goes for if air is making its way through.

Are Their Appearances up to Your Standards?

The look of your windows is important. If your windows are damaged or if they have deteriorated in a way that is subtracting value from your home, new windows could refresh your home and add value.

Are They Energy Efficient?

If you are losing money heating or cooling your home, your windows may be at fault. Older windows aren’t as energy efficient as they are now. With newer windows, you are more likely to keep your home a steady temperature.

At the end of the day, new windows can add value and comfort to your home. If you’re interested in learning about window installation, contact Lyons Lumber and Hardware.

Top 10 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Winter

Fri, 04 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Temperatures are dropping and it is time to start thinking about preparing for winter. Here are 10 ways to prepare your home for winter:

Call your local HVAC and have a tuneup on your unit. Make sure it is clean, charged and ready for maximum performance. You don't want to wait until the first time you turn on the heat to realize that your system is working properly.
Do you have a fireplace or stove heater? Clean them and make sure the vent systems and chimneys are clear.
Change your air filters. Did you know that dirty air/furnace filters can cause your system to freeze and cost you hundreds of dollars in repairs? Prevention is key. New air filters are the answer. Lyons Lumber and Hardware stores have a full selection of air filters in stock and we can special order unique sizes and have them within the week.
Caulk around your doors and windows. Replace weather stripping on your doors.
Clear you gutters of leaves and debris. When snow and ice melt, you want a clear path for the water to flow.
Consider a programmable thermostat. Some studies have shown that you can save as much as $300-400 per year. The first year savings would cover the cost of the thermostat and the installation charges. Lyons has these in stock for you.
Add door mats and/or rubber boot trays so you can leave wet shoes/boots at the door when you come inside. Find a decorative basket or container as easy access to hold gloves, mittens, hats and scarves.
Drain your irrigation systems and water hoses to prevent freezing.
Check your snow shovel (and car scrapers) to make sure they aren't broken. If you have a snow blower, take it for a routine maintenance check to ensure it is working correctly. Restock rock salt for sidewalks. Lyons can help you with these too!
Bring outdoor furniture, plants, grills and anything else that may be affected by weather.

The Famer's Almanac says the 2016-17 winter season will be one of the most difficult winters on record. Preparation in advance will ensure you have great winter!