| When planning to construct a new home? |
| When
planning to construct a new home, research the type of heating and
cooling system you want prior to the architectÕs final design. To
many times people want radiant heat for example, but are to far along
in the construction process to utilize the best methods. DonÕt assume
it will be too costly till you get a quote. DonÕt be afraid to include
the sub-contractor in the design and specifications phase.
Makdad Industrial Supply Co., Inc. |
Landscaping Design Tip |
| When
laying out new plantings, be sure to allow for each plantÕs mature
size. Giving plants enough space to spread vertically and horizontally
will reduce maintenance in years to come, especially trimming of shrubbery
close to windows, walkways, and other plants. If newly planted beds
look bare, fill in space with annuals or perennial flowers, which
can easily be transplanted when the shrubs mature.
Stephanie Weber, Wertz Landscaping |
Composting |
| Besides
accepting yard waste and brush to make compost and mulch, the Blair
County Yard Waste Compost Recycling Facility accepts the following
materials for recycling: newspapers & phone books, magazines & catalogs,
junk mail, used motor oil (including transmission fluid and power
steering fluid), #1 and #2 plastic bottles, steel & aluminum cans,
and corrugated cardboard. New materials accepted for recycling at
the Facility include used cooking oil (under 3 gallons is free, 3
to 5 gallons - $1 charge, each additional 5 gallons - $1) and oil
filters (1-5 filters - $1, 6-10 filters - $2, etc.). Directions to
the Facility: From Altoona, take Route 36 North to Skyline Drive.
Make a right onto Skyline Drive then a quick left onto Blacksnake
Road. The Compost Facility is located about 1/4 mile down Blacksnake
Road. Call 941-6675 for hours and days of operation.
Compost can be used as a conditioner to improve the moisture-retention properties of soil. In addition, compost adds valuable nutrients to soil to promote healthy plant growth. Jan Arnold, Blair County Department of Solid Waste & Recycling*Every ton of glass recycled saves the equivalent of 9 gallons of fuel oil needed to make glass from virgin materials. ¥
At least 30% of glass containers on grocery store shelves have been
recycled. |