Window onto a better life
Thirty-five local artists — including Dean McCready, above — created works from recycled doors, windows, cabinets and other materials found at Habitat ReStore home improvement outlets for Opening Doors, an art auction Sunday benefiting Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver. All net proceeds from the auction will go toward the construction of homes for low-income families. The works are already on view. This event is free and open to the public. 2 to 4 p.m. at the Denver ReStore, 70 Rio Grande Boulevard.
Point and click color guide
“FRESH Home Exterior Colors” is the name of a new, 30-page guide available online from DaVinci Roofscapes and industry partners. The booklet is designed to help homeowners, remodelers and builders select a home’s ideal exterior colors, a la the look of Beaver Creek’s Elk Track Condos in this photograph. It was written by national color expert Kate Smith from Sensational Color. Users will learn how to coordinate fixed features, select a regionally specific palette, and factor environmental elements and home style in to the decision-making. Look for the guide at , , , and .
Sprinkler blow-out tips
A word of caution from the Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado: Early autumn freezes can wreak havoc on unattended sprinkler systems causing freezing pipes, backflow problem and extensive damage. Repair costs can range from $300 to more than $1,000, said Nate Caldwell, owner of Foothills Landscape Maintenance, in a prepared statement. Follow these steps for proper sprinkler system winterization:
• While sprinklers are on, wrap your Backflow prevention devices (BFPs) in 3 to 4 inches of building-type insulation, cover with plastic, and wrap with duct tape.
• Have your system winterized by having the lines blown out with an air compressor. Average fees to winterize a residential system range from $40 to $100. Do-it-yourselfers can use a standard shop compressor.
• Once sprinklers are off, water shrubs and trees by hand during dry spells between October and April. For tips or professional referrals, visit .
