Wood

Hardwood floors are a popular, durable option that are always visually appealing. Oak and cherry give off a natural feel in any home. Hardwood floors often come as planks, parquets or prefinished boards that can be expensive and difficult to install. Theyre subject to moisture damage, so they are better installed in parts of the home that dont get wet often from showers or kitchen sinks.

Over time, they can get scratches or dents that may be expensive to fix, but these floors can be refurbished every several years and last decades.

Laminate floors are a less expensive alternative that seeks to achieve that wood-floor look. The material is composed of wood-based materials that are laminated together then layered with an imprint that mimics wood grains.

Besides wood grain, laminate floors come in a variety of colors and styles. Theyre durable and easier to install than hardwood. Although laminate is useful in high-traffic areas, its subject to moisture damage in kitchens or bathrooms where the floor gets wet often.

Engineered wood floors are made up of plywood planks that are layered on top with a real but very thin hardwood veneer. Theyre a great option for those who want something in-between laminate and hardwood. Because they have real hardwood layered on top, they more closely resemble real hardwood floors at a fraction of the cost. Unlike hardwood, refurbishing these floors usually requires replacement of the surface.

Tile is a popular option for many homeowners. Materials range from porcelain, terra cotta, marble, granite to slate. Glazed porcelain is the most cost-effective. Its nonporous, waterproof (making it great for kitchens and bathrooms) and sturdy enough for high-trafficked parts of a home.

Tiles come in a wide range of textures, shapes and finishes allowing a homeowner to be creative with tile selection. Overall tile floors are durable, but they can be expensive and difficult to install. Chips and scratches can damage tile and are difficult to repair.

Vinyl flooring is easy to clean and has a softer underfoot compared to tile or stone. Vinyl is a popular choice for basements, bathrooms or kitchens where moisture can be an issue. Its generally affordable and comes in sheets or self-stick tiles, which makes vinyl a great DIY choice. Vinyl flooring is sold in a range of widths and thicknesses. Choose a thicker vinyl for high-trafficked areas.

Concrete floors have become popular, offering long-lasting durability and lower maintenance compared to other popular flooring types. Gray concrete can be stamped or stained to look like other expensive materials like marble, granite, stone or brick.

Carpet is a common floor type in colder climates, especially in bedrooms. Carpet is cost-effective and is soft and warm underfoot. Carpet comes in a myriad of colors and styles and some are stain-resistant, which is preferable in homes with young children or pets. Carpets can be difficult to maintain; its best to have carpet professionally cleaned at least once a year.

Bamboo is an extremely durable floor type thats made from a lightweight woody grass. It can resist swelling and contractions that often happens to hardwood floors in warm, humid climates. Bamboo is also moisture-resistant making it a good option for wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Cork floors are an eco-friendly alternative. They have a light, cushiony feel that absorbs vibrations and sound. If cork floors get dented, they can often bounce back over a short period of time. Its natural, non-slip surface is ideal for wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Linoleum is another eco-friendly flooring alternative. Linoleum is made from all-natural materials that make it antistatic and resistant to water, dings or scratches. Linoleum floors are often found in commercial buildings, like hospitals, because theyre easy to clean, comfortable underfoot and come in a variety of colors.

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Best Flooring Installation Companies Of 2021 Forbes Advisor - Forbes

Although Kit Chua and her husband had lived in their Chicago home for several years, shed never set up her home office properly. Once the pandemic hit, and Ms. Chua, an education consultant, was forced to work from home, where her husband was also working and their two daughters, ages 9 and 12, were engaged in remote school, it became clear that she needed a viable office set-up.

When Ms. Chua, 46, hired interior designer Alice Benjamin to help design her office last spring, she realized that there were other spaces in the home that also needed attention. "Our living and dining room had become the kids space over the years," says Ms. Chua. "It can be pretty stressful to have the biggest and best space in your home filled with kids stuff especially during a pandemic." Ms. Benjamin created a plan in which the tucked-away family room was transformed into a study and hang-out zone for the girls while the dining and living room got a dramatic refresh. The overall project cost roughly $250,000.

Ms. Benjamin took cues from commercial workspaces for the design of the girls area where she incorporated rectangular booths fitted with cushions. "The kids each have one where they can stretch out or sit up and do their schoolwork at writing desks positioned in front," says Ms. Benjamin. Sconces illuminate the cocoon-like booths and charging stations ensure there is always a spot to plug in. Colorful cubbies nailed to the wall provide storage and the walls are covered in cloud wallpaper.

In the living room, a movie screen and projector were installed along with a custom sectional. "We werent a big TV-watching family before Covid," says Ms. Chua. "But now that we have such a nice screen, we watch a lot of shows and movies all together." Additionally, Ms. Chuas Peloton software hooks up to the projector and while in quarantine during the colder months, the family has been doing yoga. "When the kids are home for remote school and I need to be their P.E. teacher, we do dance cardio," she says.

Ms. Chua says her office, equipped with a desk at which she can either sit or stand, is now her dream space. It has floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and a sliding ladder. To expand the workspace, Ms. Benjamin transformed the adjacent room into a room where Ms. Chua participates in podcasts and video conferences. Dry-erase paint turned the walls into a blank canvas that she uses to map out ideas; the girls also enjoy writing on the walls and doing school projects at the adjustable table in the room where they can spin on swivel stools.

More:New York City Boasts Highest Concentration of Homeowners Worth $30M or More

After spending a couple of months on lockdown at his home in Newton, Mass., Stephen Sullivan felt it was time to turn the finished basement into a room the whole family would enjoy and appreciate more. "It was a nice big open space with a tile floor, but it didnt feel homey," says Mr. Sullivan, who shares the house with his partner, Michelle DeSimone, and her 19-year-old daughter, Caitlyn, and 22-year-old son, Michael.

Mismatched couches from Mr. Sullivan and Ms. DeSimones previous homes provided the rooms seating and an exercise bike and treadmill gave the space a disjointed feel. While Ms. DeSimones children already spent time in the basement, "once Covid hit, we realized the area could be so much more; a place where we could all hang out together," says Mr. Sullivan, who enlisted interior designer Elizabeth Georgantas to transform the expansive main room into a home theater.

"Its a great opportunity to make a forgotten space into something useful and beautiful," says Ms. Georgantas. To add depth to the stark white box-like room, millwork painted grey-blue was added to the walls and wall-to-wall carpeting was installed to soften the space. A new wet bar has an icemaker, refrigerator, sink, and microwave. A counterwith seating for fouris topped with a blend of marble, granite, and natural quartz that echoes the rooms hues.

Mr. Sullivan worked with MGI Systems to select a 120-inch screen with a projector and sound system for the room and Ms. Georgantas replaced the furniture with tiered, stain-resistant seating that can accommodate at least 14 people--"Much more if youre willing to squeeze close," she says.

The rooms focal point is an 81-inch-by-81-inch original poster from the 1965 James Bond film, Thunderball starring Sean Connery. The piece also functions as a sliding door to the adjacent gym. Previously, the double-wide opening to the gym was awkward. "If someone was working out while someone else was watching a movie, it would be distracting and uncomfortable," says Mr. Sullivan. Ms. Geograntas found the poster on 1stDibs from a gallery in London. "We then had to send it to a backer to cover in plexiglass. But all of the plexiglass at the time was being used for PPE. So we had to wait months to get it," says Ms. Georgantas.

When the poster finally arrived at Mr. Sullivans home in October, an on-site craftsman made it into a sliding door. "The kids love it down here and now we want to use it as much as possible, too. Its a very versatile space. We watch football games and movies, and the kids use the karaoke machine that hooks up to the screen."

The theater, which cost about $235,000 to create, is also a quiet spot to seek refuge. The seating is equipped with docking stations in the armrests. "Sometimes, Ill sneak down here and plug my laptop into a chair, stretch out and work," says Mr. Sullivan, a principal with PwC who hasnt been to his office since March.

In August, Eric Clough took advantage of the pandemics impact on the rental market when he moved with his wife, Kate Fenner, and their 14-year-old son, Lucien, from their home in New York Citys West Village to SoHo. "We were fortunate to get an apartment with one-third more space, for one-third less than what we were paying previously," says Mr. Clough, an architectural designer and founder of 212box, a multi-disciplinary firm that has designed 161 Christian Louboutin boutiques worldwide as well as other commercial and residential spaces.

When it came to allocating space in the new loft, Mr. Cloughs top priority was carving out a room that suited all of Luciens needs. Lucien, a freshman in high school, alternates between in-person schooling and remote learning on a rotating cycle. "We knew hed be spending a lot of time in here due to Covid so we wanted his room to give him ample space for studying and schoolwork, a place to hang out, and a sleeping space," says Mr. Clough. He used modular elements and wedges to keep furniture nestled close to wallsit all has a built-in-look, but nothing is actually screwed in. "The rooms millwork was built by an outfit out of state and trucked in. A local installer pieced it together like a kit of Legos using our drawings as an assembly set."

From Penta:Sothebys to Sell Peter Blake-Labeled Macallan to Benefit the Guggenheim

Storage was also key. "Lucien is a fanatic about organizing his Legos. In the old house, he didnt have a good way to store them, so everything was everywhere," says Mr. Clough. He designed a system of 45 drawers to categorize the colorful pieces. A ladder rising from a bookcase inspired by an Instagram photo Lucien sent his father connects to the lofted sleeping space. "Since the room has 12-foot ceilings, we were able to accommodate two levels," says Mr. Clough.

During the shutdown last spring, Mr. Clough spent time cleaning out his offices and sorting through materials left over from some of his firms projects. He incorporated several of these castoffs in Luciens room, including a batch of reclaimed tin which was installed on the wall behind the bed and a rug emblazoned with a tiger that never made it into a mens store on which his firm was working. Bookshelves are 18-inches deep, which is a bit deeper than a standard 13-inch library shelf. "We wanted Lucien to have a lot of display area to incorporate keepsakes hes collected," says Mr. Clough.

A fluted glass door opens into Luciens room, which cost roughly $85,000 to build out. Strategic lighting ensures that the room is a bright, ambient space day or night. "Lucien is much more organized here. Hes really good about going to his room to work on long projects," says Mr. Clough. "When he has remote school he is in there six to seven hours a day and hes back again in the evenings for two to three hours. His friends hang out with him in the lounge area by his desk."

Lucien is so happy with his room that he thanks his father often for creating it, says Mr. Clough, "I get to be the best dad, which is pretty great to hear."

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These Families are Stuck at Home During Covid, But Have Plenty of Places to Go - Mansion Global

AMHERST The Emily Dickinson Museum, which has made a number of improvements to its facilities and grounds in recent years to increase their historical accuracy, is about to embark on what staff are calling its most significant restoration project to date.

From the installation of period-style wallpaper and carpets, to the inclusion of decorative items and furnishings appropriate to the 1850s, the estimated $2 million project aims to return the home of Amhersts most famous resident more fully to the look and feel it had during the poets adult lifetime.

We see this as an opportunity, along with the renovations weve already made, to let visitors really see Emily Dickinson in her own landscape and her own time, said Jane Wald, the museums executive director.

Wald says the work on the Homestead, where Dickinson composed much of her poetry from the 1850s through the mid 1860s, is expected to start this spring and run through most of 2021. The museum, which includes the Homestead and the nearby house known as The Evergreens, the home of Dickinsons brother Austin and his family, has been closed since the pandemic arrived and will remain shut while the restoration work progresses, Wald said.

But when the museum reopens, hopefully, in March 2022, she added, visitors to the Homestead will be able to view about three times as much fully restored space as can currently be seen, and new details will be available for understanding Dickinsons daily life.

Funding for the work will come in part from an endowed $22 million fund the museum received a few years ago as part of a $25 million gift left to Amherst College, which owns the museum, from the late Amherst alum William McC. Vickery. The museum will also tap some other sources and do some fundraising for the new restorations, Wald noted.

Work is slated for a number of places in the Homestead, including hallways, parlor rooms, and whats known as the Northwest Chamber, a second-floor room adjacent to Dickinsons bedroom where her mother, Emily Norcross Dickinson, spent the last years of her life.

In all these spaces, period-style wallpaper that matches or closely resembles the original decor will be installed, and in some cases modern floorboards will be replaced, new paint schemes will be applied to some of the woodwork, and various period furnishings and decor will be put in place.

Many of those furnishings will be moved over from The Evergreens, where later generations of Dickinsons extended family had moved them from the Homestead in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Wald noted.

The parlors in particular will be decorated with wallpaper that Dickinsons niece described as white with large figures and a carpet woven with a great basket of flowers, from which roses were spilling all over the floor to a border of more flowers at the edge.

Wald said some of the wallpaper patterns, or fragments of them, were found amidst several old layers of wallpaper that were uncovered in these rooms and spaces. Working with architectural specialists and other consultants, she said, Weve been able to pinpoint which patterns would have been in use in the mid-19th century.

Some of the discoveries have been unearthed over time and others by accident; when a ceiling of one of the parlors collapsed in 2009, Wald related, museum staff were able to get a firsthand look at some of the original construction and decorative elements previously hidden.

Another key part of the upcoming work is bringing in 21st-century technology thats designed to preserve 19th-century history. New heating and cooling systems for the Homestead and The Evergreens will provide much better temperature and humidity control than the current systems, Wald said a key need considering the antique furnishings in the museum.

Though shes been disappointed the museum has been closed for in-person visits for so long, Wald said shes been excited to see people engaging with the historic center through a range of online programs the museum has developed, including virtual tours of the property. When the museum held its annual Tell itSlant Poetry Festival last fall online, We had people from 49 states and dozens of other countries participating, she said.

The upcoming restoration work is also coming amid continued interest in Dickinson in popular culture, Wald says. She points to the Apple TV+ series Dickinson, the connections between the poet and Taylor Swifts new album Evermore, and the philanthropy of MacKenzie Scott.

The famously reclusive poet has also received some renewed cachet during the pandemic. Shes been called The Queen of Quarantine, Wald said with a laugh. The poet has also been dubbed The Original Queen of Social Distancing.

Ideally the restoration work will bring an even greater level of understanding to the history of Dickinson, her family, her home and the details and circumstances of her daily life, Wald said: Were anxious to show that to visitors when we reopen. We think that can help make Amherst more of a cultural destination than ever.

Steve Pfarrer can be reached at spfarrer@gazettenet.com.

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Emily Dickinson museum plans $2M project to restore period wallpaper, floor coverings and other decor - GazetteNET

CENTRAL CITY - William H. "Bill" Ceder, 80, of Central City died at his home Feb. 17, 2021.Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 23, at Solt-Wagner Funeral Home in Central City with the Rev. Dave Ohlman officiating.Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday from 11 a.m.1 p.m. Memorials are suggested to the Central City Volunteer Fire Department. Condolences may be sent to the family at http://www.soltwagnerfuneral.com.William Howard was born Oct. 27, 1940, in Genoa to Howard Earl and Eunice Isabella (Peterson) Ceder. Bill grew up in Central City and graduated from Central City High School in 1958. Following his schooling, Bill remained in Central City, where he began a livestock and equipment business. He also worked with his parents at their appliance store, repairing appliances and installing carpet. He later went on to selling agriculture and livestock equipment for many different companies. On Feb. 7, 1960, Bill married Joan Nitzel in Archer. They made their home in Central City for all 61 years of their married life.Bill was a member of the Sons of American Legion, Lone Tree Rodeo Association, The Saddle Club and Rodeo Stock Contractor. He enjoyed hunting, horses, rodeos and grilling, but his greatest love was getting to spend time with his family. He especially enjoyed getting to spend time with his grandchildren down at the river.Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Joan, of Central City; his children, Tony Ceder of Casper, Wyo., Melodie Carlin of Grand Island, and Faith Oberg of Dunning; his grandchildren, A.W. Ceder, Ethan Ceder, Katie (Zachary) Zdorik, Sara Oberg, Emma Ceder, Cody Clark, Michael Oberg, Tyler Carlin; and one brother, Larry (Nancy) Ceder of Smith Center, Kan.He was preceded in death by his parents; and one son, Thomas Lee Ceder.

Published by The Grand Island Independent on Feb. 20, 2021.

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William Ceder Obituary - (1940 - 2021) - Central City, NE - The Grand Island Independent - Legacy.com

There are tips you can keep in mind regardless if you're still dealing with freezing weather or if you're preparing for the next storm.

The south has experienced devastating winter storms this week and power outages caused by the storms have left people cold and in danger.

Much of the power has since been restored, but there are still places without any. Regardless, many places that are strangers to below freezing temperatures have yet to warm up.

And winter storms are still moving through the country as cold air remains. So people have been sharing tips to stay warm and keep safe across social media to help those who find themselves in tough spots.

But not all tips are safe.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a list of recommendations to follow during snow storms to stay safe indoors, and some of their tips include things to consider when losing power and heat.

Among the main guidelines, the website asks people to install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector to protect yourself and your family from CO poisoning, although every home should be equipped with a working one already.

This is an important first step because many devices that might be useful to you in a winter power outage release carbon monoxide, which is both colorless and odorless. That includes generators, gas ovens or ranges, grills and cars. The CDC says dont run a car inside your garage, dont run a generator in your home or even next to a window, dont run a grill inside your home or garage, and dont run a gas oven or range without proper ventilation.

HEATING YOUR HOME

The CDC strongly cautions against using a gas stove or oven to heat a home because its unsafe. The CDC adds that fireplaces or wood stoves should only be used to heat a home if they are properly vented to the outside and dont leak gas from the flue or exhaust into the indoor air space.

As stated above, gas or charcoal grills shouldnt be used indoors. Neither should camp stoves.

If you must use a kerosene heater, make sure you have proper ventilation. The CDC also recommends to use the fuel designed for the heater, dont substitute it for something else.

In fact, electric portable space heaters are a good go-to when your home needs heat. The CDC stresses they should have automatic shut-off switches, non-glowing elements and are kept away from flammable materials.

Its best to keep them uncovered and at least three feet away from drapes, furniture, bedding or water. Dont leave them on top of furniture, dont leave children unattended near a space heater, avoid using extension cords if you have the option to plug it in and make sure the cord is not in a place where its a tripping hazard or has to run under a carpet or rug.

CONSERVING HEAT

Its also important to prevent heat from escaping, especially if your access to devices that can warm you up is limited.

Keep yourself bundled with layers. A winter storm power outage is the perfect time to bust out extra blankets, sleeping bags and winter coats.

You should avoid unnecessarily opening doors and windows. In fact, you can stuff towels and rags underneath doors to better prevent heat from escaping. You should also close off unneeded rooms so there is a smaller space to heat.

Also, be sure to close draperies or cover windows with blankets at night to keep the heat in.

WHAT ABOUT MY CAR?

Many people have used their cars for warmth and a recharge during these winter storms. Never leave the car on in your garage if you plan to use it.

But even if your car is outside, keep your stays in it limited. Running the heater for too long still poses the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

The CDC suggests running the motor and heater of the car for 10 minutes per hour and opening one window slightly to let in air. It also says you should double-check to make sure the exhaust pipe of your car isnt blocked with snow. These tips are recommended for people stranded in their cars during a snowstorm to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, but its also good advice to follow if you feel forced to use your car for warmth.

North Dakotas winter storm information guide warns you shouldnt fall asleep with the heater running. It adds that your ventilating window should be on the upwind side of your car as a downwind open window could actually lead to exhaust blowing into your car. It also reminds you that car batteries are weaker in cold weather and repeatedly starting and stopping the engine will put stress on it and could repeatedly melt and refreeze snow over top of the engine. So keep in mind cold weather will pose risks to your car starting on top of the risks you may have of running out of fuel to keep it running.

HOW DO I MAKE SURE I CAN DRINK CLEAN WATER?

The CDC suggests that you dont thaw frozen pipes with a torch. Instead, thaw the pipes slowly with warm air and an electric hair dryer.

You can work to reduce the likelihood of pipes freezing in the first place by leaving all faucets and water taps slightly open so the water is dripping continuously. You can also let more heated air get to the pipes by leaving the cabinets under your sink open.

That might still not be enough and your pipes may freeze anyway. If that happens, the best thing to do is rely on bottled water or get water from a neighbor.

But if those arent options, or if your city is issuing a boil water advisory, youre going to have to get a bit more creative.

As an emergency measure, if no other water is available, snow can be melted for water, the CDC says. Bringing water to a rolling boil for one minute will kill most germs but wont get rid of chemicals sometimes found in snow.

When boiling water, the CDC suggests you keep it boiling for three minutes if your altitude is about 6,500 feet and you store in clear, sanitized containers after letting it cool. Note that the CDC mentions nothing about adding salt in the water to make it boil faster.

Thats because it doesnt actually help speed along the process much if at all. Several school science experiment guides describe that salt raises the boiling point of water while also making it less heat resistant. Ultimately, your water needs just as long to boil but is now saltier.

Thats not entirely a bad thing in very limited quantities; however, the CDC says you can improve the flat taste of boiled water by pouring it from one clean, disinfected container to another and then allowing it to stand for a few hours, OR by adding a pinch of salt for each quart or liter of boiled water.

Boiling water may be harder if you are also suffering from a power outage. If you have appliances off of the grid to boil it, keep in mind the above guidelines not to use those appliances inside the house. If you use candles, never leave them unattended.

You can also freeze water in a container before the storm hits. Not only will that help keep your fridge and freezer cold for longer if the power goes out, but the FDA says this also gives you access to clean water once you melt it if the local water supply is contaminated.

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How to stay safe and warm both with or without power - KARE11.com

The Shawnee News-Star

With temperatures set below zero for a few more days the American Red Cross has steps to help prevent frozen pipes and how to thaw them safely.

With a few more days of cold weather frozen water pipes can become a real problem and it is putting many homeowners at risk of damage to their home with burst pipes and flooding , said Brittney Rochell, regional communications director of the American Red Cross of Kansas and Oklahoma. The main thing to prevent water pipes from freezing is to keep them warm and we have easy tips do that along with how to safely thaw any frozen pipes in your home.

PROTECT PIPES FROM FREEZING IN YOUR HOME

Protect pipes from freezing by taking the following precautions:

Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.

Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.

When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent pipes from freezing.

Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.

If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55 F.

See additional tips online.

HOW TO SAFELY THAW FROZEN PIPES

The following steps are suggested to help pipes thaw:

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.

Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.

Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device.

Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you cant thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.

Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

OTHER COLD WEATHER AND SAFETY TIPS

Assemble an emergency preparedness kit.Full details here.

Stay indoors and wear warm clothes. Layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing will keep you warmer than a bulky sweater. If you feel too warm, remove layers to avoid sweating; if you feel chilled, add layers.

Check on relatives, neighbors, and friends, particularly if they are elderly or if they live alone.

STAY SAFE OUTSIDE

If you must go outside, protect yourself from winter storm hazards:

Wear layered clothing, mittens or gloves, and a hat. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent. Mittens or gloves and a hat will prevent the loss of body heat.

Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from severely cold air. Avoid taking deep breaths; minimize talking.

Watch for signs of hypothermia and frostbite.

Know the signs of hypothermia - confusion, dizziness, exhaustion and severe shivering. If someone has these symptoms, they should get immediate medical attention.

Watch for symptoms of frostbite including numbness, flushed gray, white, blue or yellow skin discoloration, numbness or waxy feeling skin.

Keep dry. Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Wet clothing loses much of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly away from the body.

POWER OUTAGE TIPS

Sudden power outages can be frustrating, troublesome and even dangerous. If a power outage is two hours of less, you need not be concerned about the loss of perishable foods. However, for prolonged outages, there are steps you can take to keep all members of your household safe and comfortable (More home power outage safety tipshere):

Preserve perishable food items with ice in the cooler or refrigerator. Inexpensive Styrofoam coolers work well.

Put together a home emergency preparedness kit: water (one gallon per person per day), non-perishable food (three-day supply for evacuation, two-week supply for home), flashlight, battery-powered or hand-cranked radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible), extra batteries, first aid kit, medications, cell phone chargers, important health documents, family emergency contact information and some extra cash.

If someone at home is dependent on electric-powered life-sustaining equipment, remember to include back-up power in your evacuation plan.

Keep your cars gas tank full.

HEATYOUR HOME SAFELY

Its that time of year when many people resort to space heaters and other sources to keep their homes warm.To reduce the risk of heating related fires, the Red Cross recommends these steps (More home fire safety information availablehere):

All heaters need space. Keep children, pets and things that can burn (paper, matches, bedding, furniture, clothing, carpets, and rugs) at least three feet away from heating equipment.

If you must use a space heater, place it on a level, hard and nonflammable surface (such as ceramic tile floor), not on rugs, carpets or near bedding or drapes. Plug power cords directly into outlets - never into an extension cord.

Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended and use a glass or metal fire screen to keep fire and embers in the fireplace.

Never use a cooking range or oven to heat your home.

Turn off portable space heaters every time you leave the room or go to sleep.

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Red Cross: Winter storms and preventing, thawing frozen pipes - Shawnee News Star

Staff and wire| Akron Beacon Journal

Winter driving tips

Here are several winter driving tips to help you safely navigate icy and snowy roads.

Wochit

Temperatures this brutally cold in Ohiocan cause water pipes to freeze, particularly pipes that lead to outdoor spigots or pipes in unheated spaces.

Pay particular attention to pipes on outside walls. Open the doors of under-sink cabinets to allow warm air inside, and turn faucets on just enough to produce a trickle of hot and cold water overnight. And just for these frigid nights, its a good idea not to turn the thermostat back at night as you usually do. The extra money youll pay for water and heat is far less than the cost of a plumbing repair.

Ohio weather: Here's a look at road conditions as snow moves in

Disconnect hoses from outdoor spigots so the freezing water in the hoses doesnt damage the plumbing when it expands. Turn on the spigots, and then go inside and shut off the water supply to them. You can do that by turning the valve on the supply line that leads to each spigot.

If a pipe bursts, immediately turn off the water, using the shutoff valve for the individual pipe or the houses main shutoff valve. Its found where the water supply enters the house, usually near the water meter.

The meter is usually along the basement wall nearest the street.

If you dont have a basement, the shutoff is probably near the water heater but might also be under a sink.

More: How much snow will Ohio get? A look at the winter storm forecast

If youre lucky enough to discover a frozen pipe before the pipe breaks, shut off the water first, just in case the pipe has already split and you dont know it. Then try thawing the frozen section by directing warm air from a hair dryer parallel to the area you suspect is frozen, or by pointing an infrared heat lamp or space heater at the section.

As a last resort, wrap rags around the pipe and pour on boiling water, but be prepared for a mess and slow results.

Heres how to stay safe during this cold snap:

Source: The American Red Cross, U.S. Fire Administration, National Fire Protection Association

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Ohio weather: How to stop your pipes from freezing and tips on staying warm during a cold snap - Akron Beacon Journal

Carpet weaving in Indiadates back to the 16th century, when Mughal emperor Akbar tried bringing weavers from Persia to make rugs for his palace. Today, India is a hub of carpets that have much demand in the international market.

According to a report by Mordor Intelligence, almost 90 percent of carpets made in India are exported, with overseas shipments worth Rs 64,407.19 crore ($916.15 million) duringApril-November 2019.

Indian handmade rugs have wide international appeal, despite competition from countries such as Turkey, China, and the US that specialise in machine-made carpets. SMBStory curatesa list of four domestic manufacturers that export India-made rugs to several countries.

Gaurav Sharma, MD, Obeetee

A hundred years ago, on the banks of the Ganges, three British men started a small, carpet-making enterprise. It was 1920, shortly after World War I, and the founders were looking to capitalise on the rising popularity of Indian carpets in the West.

FH Oakley, FH Bowden, and JAL Taylor gathered the finest local craftsmen in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, and began manufacturing carpets. Their business was started as Oakley Bowden & Taylor, and the enterprise derived its brand name, Obeetee, from the founders initials, OBT.

Over the last century, Obeetee has built its legacy as one of Indias largest handmade carpet and rug makers. Its primary factory in Gopiganj, Uttar Pradesh, has 1,100 employees and the brand works with 20,000 artisans, who manufacture the handmade products.

The Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi is home to two Obeetee rugs, the larger one of which measures 452 square metres and contains 100 million intricate knots. The US is a large market for the company.

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Monty and Radhe Rathi, Co-founders, Kaleen Group

Until 1994, Radhe Rathi was involved in his familys textile business, handling its exports arm. But due to some differences, he decided to move out. Radhe, who had been living and working in the US, saw an opportunity in the rugs market when a trading project accidentally fell into his hands.

He dived into the industry and started exploring new avenues. In 1996, he established Kaleen India, a rug manufacturing and sales business. Although the company started out trading rugs in the overseas markets, it gradually moved into manufacturing.

In 2000, Radhes younger brother, Monty Rathi, Chief Operating Officer of Kaleen Group, joined the business and the duo shifted base from the US to Mumbai, setting up manufacturing units in Panipat, Mirzapur, and Bikaner. At present, Radhe divides his time between the US and India.

Radhe emphasises that Kaleen Indias USPis leveraging technology in a largely traditional business segment. The company specialises in machine-made and handmade carpets using techniques such as hand-knotting, hand-tufting on broadlooms, pit looms, and power looms.

In FY20, the group clocked a turnover of Rs 250 crore.

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Aditya Gupta, Director, The Rug Republic

Aditya Gupta got attuned to carpets and rugs while growing up in Meerut. His parents, JK Gupta and Meenakshi Gupta, had started making carpets at their home in 1983, when Aditya was in Class X. Eight years later, after completing his education from the Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, and Faculty of Management Studies, Delhi, Aditya joined the business with his brother, Ashish Gupta. Their company came to be known as Sharda Exports.

The business was earlier focused on the domestic market, until there was an opportunity to showcase its collection atan exhibition in Germany. Sharda thus entered the overseasmarket in 1991.

Shardas first international clients included Swedish furniture brand IKEA and UK-based household furnishings company Habitat. Between 2013 and 2014, Sharda was renamed The Rug Republic.

Currently, The Rug Republic manufactures five lakh carpets a year and exports to 85 countries. Aditya doesnt disclose the turnover, but saysthe companys growth rate is around 20 percent year-on-year. The Rug Republic has an exclusive showroom in Delhi andmore than 10,000 retail stores worldwide.

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Asif Rahman, CEO, Insigne Carpets

Asif Rahmans association with carpets started in 1988, when he was frantically looking for job opportunities after graduating from Calcutta University. One day, he stopped outsidea rug store on Kolkatas Park Street and started checking out the carpets through the glass window. Intrigued, the owner called him inside and after a brief conversation, offered him a job to head his carpet installation team. Asif started working with the team to install carpets at five-star hotels. Thus began a three-decade-long journey in the carpet industry.

Asif launched Insigne Carpets in 2011 with a primary investment of Rs 35 lakh from personal savings.The Gurugram-based luxury brand is an end-to-end solutions provideroffering consultation, manufacturing, installation of carpets, and other services.

The company has an impressive clienteleacross the entertainment, hospitality, commercial, residential and other sectors.It has designed and created carpets for luxury projects such as La Samaritaine (Paris), The Pierre (New York), Wynn Casino (Las Vegas), and Salalah International Airport (Oman). The companys USP, Asif tells SMBStory, is customisation. He claims that the company makes only one piece of a particular design and doesnt recreate it again.

Insigne Carpets manufacturing unit in China has a capacity to produce 5,000 square metres of carpets, whereas the Indian unit can manufacture 1,000 square metres.

Read the full story here.

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The Indian carpet makers weaving their magic globally - YourStory

NETFLIX PARTNERS WITH ACCLAIMED BRITISH ASIAN ARTISTS

INKQUISITIVE AND CHILA KUMARI BURMAN

TO CREATE STUNNING SUV INSTALLATIONS INSPIRED BY HIT FILM THE WHITE TIGER

To celebrate the recent launch of critically acclaimed Netflix Original Film THE WHITE TIGER, which is based on the New York Times bestseller and 2008 Man Booker Prize-winning novel of the same name, Netflix has partnered with two leading British Asian artists, Inkquisitive and Chila Kumari Burman, to explore the concepts of ambition, class, society and entrepreneurship from the film by creating visually stunning interpretations of the infamous White Tiger Driver car and putting their own distinct style on two otherwise ordinary looking cars.

In THE WHITE TIGER, which has just been longlisted for 7 BAFTA awards (including Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor and Best Supporting Actress), the car represents Balrams (played by newcomer Adarsh Gourav) submission to servitude as he tries to climb the social ladder whilst being confined to driving his rich masters (Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Rajkummar Rao).

With a legion of worldwide fans and celebrity following of his unique artwork, Inkquisitive AKA Amandeep Singh, is known for his abstract and vibrant ink sketches and using his artwork as a creative platform for commentary on faith, popular culture and global issues.

I had heard about the book so when the opportunity arose to work on The White Tiger, I knew it would be something special. says Inkquisitive. I loved the film the themes of the underdog, ambition, and hustle amongst the wider social context of India. I wanted to focus on the storyline of the main character in my art; exploring the duality of Balrams humble beginnings in the village to what he does and what he becomes - using striking imagery and bright colours, peppered with words that resonate closely to the film, and finishing with the white tiger at the top of the car, to reflect Balrams final status in society.

Its great that Netflix is giving British Asian artists a platform to share their work its been a decade since I started creating my art, and this unique partnership has been an incredible way to celebrate my journey thus far. says Inkquisitive.

With a lauded body of work over the years, 2020 saw Chila decorate Tate Britains iconic faade as part of the Winter Commission project. Challenging stereotypical assumptions of Asian women, her experimental and distinctive pop art work is informed by popular culture, Bollywood, fashion, gender and identity.

The collaboration with Netflix has been wonderful the whole time I was making my car. says Chila. Ive taken inspiration from every scene in the film and tried to cover its main themes, from capitalism and corruption to injustice and poverty. Using imagination and creativity, Ive handcrafted digitally and transferred my ideas onto the car with fun and dynamism. The animated tiger on the roof captures the solitary pounce of the white tiger and contrasts with the bold neon, colour, and overall design of the car.

Netflix UK is exploring options to display the cars once the national lockdown has eased. The creation of the cars and assets adhered to government COVID guidelines.

Find Inkquisitive on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube And Chila Kumari Burman on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

James Gillham - Still Moving / Netflix

The White Tiger Film Page

THE WHITE TIGER is on Netflix now

About The White TigerBalram Halwai (Adarsh Gourav) narrates his epic and darkly humorous rise from poor villager to successful entrepreneur in modern India. Cunning and ambitious, our young hero jockeys his way into becoming a driver for Ashok (Rajkummar Rao) and Pinky (Priyanka Chopra Jonas), who have just returned from America. Society has trained Balram to be one thing a servant so he makes himself indispensable to his rich masters. But after a night of betrayal, he realizes the corrupt lengths they will go to trap him and save themselves. On the verge of losing everything, Balram rebels against a rigged and unequal system to rise up and become a new kind of master. Based on the New York Times bestseller and 2008 Man Booker Prize-winning novel.

About NetflixNetflix is the world's leading streaming entertainment service with 204 million paid memberships in over 190 countries enjoying TV series, documentaries and feature films across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can watch as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, on any internet-connected screen. Members can play, pause and resume watching, all without adverts or commitments.

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Netflix Partners With British Asian Artists INKQUISITIVE + CHILA KUMARI BURMAN To Create SUV Installations Inspired By THE WHITE TIGER - The Fan...

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Long considered carpeting's least attractive form, outdoor carpet has made great leaps forward in quality and style over the past few years. Durable and low-maintenance, this soft floor covering is an easy way to add a cozy feel to your patio or deck.

"Given that we will be spending more time in our homes for the foreseeable future, it's important to truly use the space you have," advises interior designer and HGTV host Arlene Gibbs. "An outdoor rug will help your outdoor spaces feel more like an extension of your home."

If you're considering outdoor carpet for your outdoor living space, here's what you need to know:

Water-resistant and UV-stable, outdoor carpet is made with materials that can withstand anything Mother Nature throws at it. Its low-pile or densely woven synthetic or natural fibers help repel dirt and water and resist mold and mildew. However, "outdoor rugs made of natural fibers like seagrass are not as strong as their synthetic counterparts and could have issues with mold," Gibbs says.

Most outdoor carpet is low-pile loop (or Berber), cut and loop patterned or flat woven. All handle the wear and tear of weather and foot traffic better than plush or deep-pile carpet types. For completely exposed areas or high-humidity climates, choose a carpet with all-weather marine backing to resist moisture.

"The pros of outdoor carpet far outweigh the cons in my book," says Gibbs. Here are a few factors to consider if you're thinking about buying outdoor carpet:

Resistant to the elements, sun, pets and people. Gibbs even suggests considering outdoor carpet as an indoor option "for high traffic areas in your home, like a den/family room, kids' room, playroom, etc."

Low maintenance and easy to clean.

Variety of colors, styles and sizes to fit the space and dcor.

Price points for any budget.

Can protect your deck or patio from wear and tear.

Requires a special adhesive or double-sided tape for carpets or anti-slip underlay for area rugs.

Water-resistant but not waterproof, so it can have issues with mold or mildew in extremely damp climates.

Less plush than indoor carpets due to dirt- and moisture-blocking low pile or flat weave.

You can install outdoor carpet on any hard, flat surface from wood to concrete, although some surfaces may need weathering from 30 to 60 days first. The straightforward installation requires a few basic tools, a rented 100-lb. roller and special adhesive or double-sided carpet tape. An intermediate-level DIYer can do it in a day. Some tile or plank carpets come with a self-adhesive backing, making them even easier to install.

Otherwise, consider that professional installation costs an average of $400 to $600 for a 300-sq.-ft. patio or deck.

Little to no maintenance and easy cleaning are two of the biggest selling points of outdoor carpeting. These carpets are resistant, but food and beverages often leave stains, so spot-clean larger spills immediately.

Set up grills or smokers away from the carpet as flying embers melt holes in the synthetic fibers. Standing water can damage even the most water-resistant carpets; use a push broom to remove puddles after a heavy rainfall.

To clean, first go over your carpet with a broom to get rid of blown leaves, twigs or other large debris. Then vacuum using the regular floor head (not the rotating brush) to remove dirt and dust.

For mud or stains, mix dish detergent with lukewarm water. Scrub with a brush or push broom, then use a sponge or garden hose to rinse the suds. If you are cleaning a smaller area rug, hang it in the sun after a rainstorm or hose rinsing to fully dry.

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Homeowner's Guide to Outdoor Carpet The Family Handyman - msnNOW