4 Tips for Maintaining Hardwood Floors

Posted on July 6, 2018

Many homeowners ask, “How do I best take care of my new hardwood?” With proper maintenance, hardwood flooring can last a lifetime, serving as an enduring investment in your family’s comfort and property value. Here are 4 tips for maintaining your hardwood floors:

Use Mats and Rugs

Take preventative measures to protect your flooring. With the strategic placement of mats and rugs, you can protect your hardwood from debris and moisture. High-priority locations include:
Doormats should be placed near entryway, the longer the better, so that visitors have ample time to clean the bottoms of their shoes.
High-traffic areas, such as a mudroom or hallway.

Sweep and Mop Often

Another preventative measure is to remove dirt and grime from your floor before it can damage it. Our shoes carry particles of sand and grit that can wreck havoc on a beautiful hardwood finish. When mopping to remove particles from your floor, be sure to use a cleaning agent that will not stain hardwood or remove the finish. Chemicals to avoid include vinegar, citrus, silicon, acrylics, urethane, or tung oil. When vacuuming, take extra precautions to ensure you do not scratch the floor. Vacuum attachments, especially rolling brush heads, can easily scratch a finish.

Get Your Dog a Bed

Don’t let your hound sleep on the ground. The spots where our canine companions spend the most time are obvious because animal fur removes hardwood finishes over time. A dog bed is a sound investment for maintaining your beautiful hardwood flooring, as well as making you very popular with Fido. Pet owners should also be sure to regularly trim their pet’s nails, which leave unsightly marks on your floors.

Polish Your Floor

Applying a polish to your floor can help smooth a floor’s surface by filling in dings and scratches. Be sure that whatever you use is appropriate for the species of wood and the finish. For best results, hardwood floors should be polished every few months.
Floor Coverings International Winter Garden is dedicated to finding the perfect flooring for Orlando, Winter Garden, Windermere FL area homeowners. Learn more about your hardwood options by visiting their booth at the 9th Annual Orlando Fall Home & Garden Show, August 10-12, at the Orange County Convention Center!

10 Things You May Not Know About Solar Power

Posted on March 16, 2018

1. Solar power is the most abundant energy source on Earth.
Every hour, more solar energy hits the earth than all of humanity needs for an entire year. Solar panels harness this clean energy source by using photovoltaic cells.
2. You can use solar power to run your entire home.
It’s a cheaper, safer, and green solution to running air conditioners, hot water heaters, appliances, etc.
3. Solar power has a long history
The potential to harness solar power was first discovered in 1839 (a year after the first coal fired power plant was built) by Alexandre Edmond Becquererl. He found how to create an electrical current in a conductor that was hit by the sun rays, in other words, the photovoltaic effect. The creation of modern silicon photovoltaic cells was completed in 1954 at Bell Labs. Since then, the efficiency has increased more than four times, while the price has decreased significantly!
4. Solar is the world’s most popular form of new electricity generation
Due to decreased cost and increased efficiency, solar has quickly become the preferred new electricity generator. More than 73 gigawatts of new solar power was installed in 2016!
5. Solar power produces no pollution
Apart from the pollution given off during manufacturing, solar power is one of the cleanest, most sustainable, and most renewable resources in the world. However, not all panels are created equal. SunPower panels are the only solar panels to have achieved a Cradle to Cradle certification, meaning the panels are manufactured in the most sustainable, ethical way possible.
6. Solar power improves world health
The burning of fossil fuels creates toxic pollution, which has an impact on global health. Pollution affects as many people as HIV or malaria, and has serious consequences on children, older adults, and all living plants and animals. Solar power reduces the amount of fossil fuels used, meaning less pollution is going into the air, and into our lungs.
7. Solar panels can increase your home value
Initial studies have shown solar panels can increase your home value an average of $20,000, a higher payback percentage than a kitchen remodel.
8. Solar can help lower electric bills
Depending on where you live in Texas, you may be able to take advantage of net metering (your system is hooked up to the electric grid and you sell back excess energy you produce). If you decide to finance, there is a possibility your monthly loan payment will be less than your average electric bill. Solar can help you save money from day one!
9. Solar systems come with a warranty
Most solar systems come with a warranty. The warranty we offer at SunPower by Freedom Solar is a 25 year warranty on product (guarantees the quality of the system), 25 year warranty on service (repair or replace defective panels) and 25 year warranty on power (guarantees highest power production).
10. You don’t have to buy solar panels outright
There are multiple ways to afford solar, you don’t have to pay cash to reap the benefits. Low interest loans are available to solar system owners, as well as other financing options.
By: Freedom Solar
Contact them for the latest info!

Design 101 by Carmina Marie Interior Design

Posted on January 19, 2018

Design 101:

How to break down a design scheme for your home

We live in a time of convenience, where next day shipping, lightning fast search engines and social media are the norm. That means you can find inspiration in less than a second with a few keywords. This leads to tons of ideas, pinning and inspiration for home décor. We even have hashtags that make it that much easier for you to search for the latest trends in kitchens, bathrooms and living spaces.

But, with all that inspo and options, there inevitably comes, indecision. With our screens filled with amazing work from designers, we want to copy and paste it into our own homes. But unfortunately, that isn’t how it works. What looks and feels right in one space, cannot always be transferred to another. The question is, how can you take that décor from your dream space and bring it into your actual space?

There are three main parts of decorative scheme that can help you get there.

Color (just kidding, it is important but it isn’t number one) It’s actually Texture:
1. So, what does that actually mean? Be aware of all the different textures around you, right now. From the floor, to the chair to the table. All of these different textures add something different to your space. A wood floor can visually add warmth to a room or a soft accent pillow can add comfort. A space that has little texture, will lack dimension and interest.
2. Try a textured natural linen table runner or two-toned metal lighting accents to bring more visual interest to a room.
Shape
1. This is the best way to stay within a scheme that you like, from rustic to transitional to ultra modern. Your furniture choices can really define the overall look of a space. Mid-century modern pieces are iconic because of their form. Placing them in a room will immediately change the whole feel.
2. Don’t be afraid of patterns. Looking at small samples, don’t always do the designs justice. Remember to always try to bring bigger samples into the actual room before using it in something like a curtain or a sofa.
Last but not least, Color
1. Deciding on the right color scheme is essential to setting the right tone and mood for a space. I have my clients pick out at least 3 colors that they would like to incorporate into their space. From these colors, we build on what might compliment or contrast with them.
2. The color scheme seems to fall into place once the client has decided on textures and shapes for their space.

Those are the basics of a design scheme. A good interior designer will always talk through these points with you and guide you through the whole design process. It never hurts to get a head start on designing your dream space.

An Inspiring Letter From Celebrity Kim Lewis

Posted on December 29, 2017

Hey Everyone!

What is ‘ethical design’ really?

Well, I say it is an art form of design that goes far deeper than the surface. As a designer, I remember that moment in my career when I questioned whether or not my work really mattered. How does it leave a positive impact on the world? How can I use my work to help people? How do I “create with purpose?”.

A few short months after leaving ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition“, I found myself in a van on a red dirt road in Ghana, West Africa. Pencil in hand, volunteering with my team; in a 3 day journey to Kumasi, we drew an art therapy center for children who had been rescued from trafficking. We saw firsthand how creativity can empower lives and awaken souls.

The art center was such a success another non-profit asked us to design one for girls who had been rescued from sex trafficking in Cambodia. A year later, I found myself in the jungles of Southeast Asia. Renovating a tiny boat outside of Battambang, the art center offers just enough space to transform bruised souls, inspiring confidence and worthiness through a crayon.

Ethical design is a choice, and one we all have the power to make. Whether you travel overseas to create, or you’re right here spreading your gift in the industry, you have the power to change lives through design!

After being the Production Designer for several television shows, I found myself on FYI’s “Tiny House Nation”. Cramming a dining table, stairwell and pantry into 90 SF on paper, I was intrigued, challenged, and for the first time, drawing a house I could see myself living in.

Two years later, and I just moved into my own tiny home, with my new husband and an 80 lb lab puppy. It’s a lifestyle you may or may not choose for yourself, but I’m excited to share honestly how it’s been. “The good, the bad, and the ugly,” as ‘they’ say…

With our local “Community First! Village” and tiny home initiatives around the country spreading like wildflowers, I’m excited to make you a believer. My hope is to challenge you to see this tiny home ‘trend’ as another way to foster ethical design choices for our community and nation.

If you’re a skeptic of tiny homes, come sit on the front row of my seminars at the Austin Home & Garden Show, Jan 13 & 14 at the Palmer Events Center. Click here for appearance schedule!

Can’t wait to see y’all there!
Be inspired,
Kim Lewis

Check Out Our New Look!!

Posted on December 1, 2017

We don’t like the term “rebranding” because our brand remains the same, same great company, same great employees, same great home shows… however we have updated our look! So, when you see the new fun flower, it’s still us!
We are getting ready for an awesome Spring season, sporting our new look!
Click Here For Our Spring Season Schedule

Thanks!
Show Technology Productions

Taste The Holidays!

Posted on November 13, 2017

With the holidays approaching fast, everyone is in the spirit for spirited spirits! Here’s a little inspiration!
Rocks Hard Cider
Hard Apple Cider (your favorite)
Rocks Mai Tai Mixer
Cinnamon Schnapps (optional)
Mix equal parts cider to equal parts Rocks Cocktail Mix. Add a splash of cinnamon schnapps (optional). Serve hot or cold. If serving hot, do not bring to a boil.
Let It Snow Martini
3 oz Pineapple Vodka
1 oz Coconut Vodka
4 oz Rocks Ultimate Mixer
2 oz Cream of Coconut
Put all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Mix it up and strain
into chilled glass. Toasted coconut garnish optional…Enjoy
Red Sangria
3 oz. Rocks Mai Tai Mix
3 oz. red wine (red blends are best!)
Pour Mai Tai Mix and wine into a glass; blend well.
Add frozen grapes to glass to act as ice for your sangria.

To find the Rocks products listed in these ingredients visit the San Antonio Christmas Showcase at the Freeman Coliseum Expo Hall this weekend, November 18 & 19! Rocks Brands International can be found in booth #812!

It's That Time! Here's A Holiday Recipe!

Posted on October 27, 2017

The holidays are a time for family, for fun and for food! But deciding what to bring to your family’s gathering is often easier said than done, which is why the 39^th Annual San Antonio Christmas Showcase presented by At Home® is bringing you a place to shop for those delicious dishes and treats that will leave everyone asking you for the recipe. Like the local Texas Brew Blue n’ Blackberry Sauce, a rich blend of blackberry puree and blueberries with a hint of lavender is bold, yet delicate. Delicate enough to transform a blasé, run of the mill, store bought, frozen cheesecake into a dessert scrumptious and beautiful enough to serve at any event. Imagine a beautiful cheesecake drizzled with Blue n’ Blackberry Sauce topped with fresh blueberries and whipped cream. The possibilities are endless. In a hurry, how about making beautiful parfaits or simply pouring over ice cream. Or, perhaps, with a little more effort, preparing a Texas Brew Seared Blue n’ Blackberry Pork Tenderloin.

Texas Brew Seared Blue/Blackberry Pork Tenderloin
1 small pork tenderloin
Adams Reserve All Purpose House Rub
Texas Brew Blue N’ Blackberry Sauce

Preheat oven to 500°F
Sprinkle roast liberally with AR All Purpose House Rub and sear in a hot skillet.
Place tenderloin on baking sheet and baste with Texas Brew Blue n’ Blackberry Sauce
Bake till internal temp reaches 145° to 160°. Remove from oven and rest. (about 15 minutes depending on size of tenderloin
Serve sliced and drizzled with warmed TB Blue N’ Blackberry Sauce

Baking times will vary due to the size of your tenderloin and preferred method of cooking.
To get your hands on a jar of Texas Brew Blue n’ Blackberry Sauce come down to “The Big One”, the 39^th Annual Christmas Showcase November 18^th-19^th at the Freeman Coliseum. Get a jump on your holiday shopping, with hundreds of unique gifts and a package check for those bulky items you don’t want to carry while you finish shopping. Create holiday memories at Craft Workshops or at the Kids Zone, grab a bite at the Holiday Food Court or with Wine or Tamale tasting. It’s the best way to make your list and check it twice!
About Texas Brew
Texas Brew Products a multiple award winning company, founded by Brenda Craig prides itself in uniqueness, freshness and quality. In addition to producing very unique Fire Roasted Kale and Bloody Mary Salsas we are most proud of our newest sauces: Blue n’ Blackberry, Strawberry Chipotle and Baja Pina Colada. Exquisite and versatile enough to be used on and in delicate desserts to finishing or glazing sauces for virtually any protein.
Brenda grew up on a farm abundant with fresh vegetables and blackberries, her favorite fruit. Her love of fresh veggies and fruit has inspired her to create many scrumptious salsas and sauces. Her mother taught her to cook from a very young age but it wasn’t till a few years ago she began creating exclusive salsas and sauces for HEB.

10 Weeks 'Til Christmas?!

Posted on October 20, 2017

That’s right! But don’t panic! The At Home Christmas Showcase in San Antonio is back and bigger than ever!! And it is now produced by the same folks as your favorite Home & Garden Show!!
November 18 & 19, 2017 check off your Christmas list all in one place!
Find unique gifts for everyone on your Christmas list in one place. With over 500 booths featuring holiday decorations, Texas artisans, jewlery and apparel you can get a jump start on your holiday list. Plus, this event is fun and chock full of holiday cheer. You won’t want to miss out on craft workshops, a holiday food court with everything from strudel to lobster, even a package check to store those must-have items while you continue shopping! And there is something for everyone, with a kids zone to entertain even the youngest members of your family. The at home Christmas showcase, November 18^th and 19^th at the freeman coliseum. Get your tickets today at Christmas showcase dot com.
Don’t miss out, see you there!

That Surface Can Be Slip-Resistant!

Posted on October 6, 2017

Imagine a slip-resistant surface that not only enhances the look of your playground, splash pad, pool deck, patio, entrance or walkway but also provides comfort, resilience and style!
Rubaroc® combines proprietary high tech polymer resins with high quality colorfast rubber granules. It is poured-in-place then hand troweled to create a beautiful, resilient, non-skid surface that is virtually indestructible.
Originally innovated as poured-in-place Rubber Safety Surfacing for swimming pool decks, Rubaroc® quickly grew its applications and today you will find Rubaroc® Rubber Safety Surfaces being used in a wide variety of applications from water parks, playgrounds, schools, childcare facilities, golf clubs and hotels, private and public housing associations and so much more.
Rubaroc is skid-resistant when wet, much like your bath mat, which makes rubber surfacing perfect for wet deck applications. The surface is comfortable to walk on in bare feet, even on the hottest summer day.
Rubaroc is professionally installed by Rubaroc Professionals over your new or existing surface. When finished, it expands and contracts to accommodate temperature changes and ground movement. Rubaroc bonds directly to any solid substrate material including concrete, asphalt, epoxy stone, brick, wood, steel, tarmac, chipboard, and aluminum.
Find solutions to your home projects like this one and many more at the Show Technology Home & Garden Shows across the nation! Click Here For Show Schedule

Surfin' for Turf?

Posted on September 15, 2017

What are factors that I should consider in choosing an artificial grass for my garden?

With many environmental and economic concerns in mind, artificial grass is becoming an increasingly popular solution for both commercial and residential properties alike. However, it is important to consider several factors when choosing the right artificial grass to create the garden of your dreams. Here are some important factors you should consider:
1. Your budget – If you are going to make an investment into artificial turf for your garden you want to make sure you are staying within your own spending comfort level. Make sure and create a reasonable range of prices to help stick to your budget.
2. Durability and the warranty provided – Always ask about the durability of the grass you are researching and how long the warranty is to make sure you get the most bang for your grass buck.
3. How you use your garden – Are you going to play a game of soccer on your grass or have a relaxing summer picnic? How your garden is going to be used is crucial to what type of grass you choose.
4. Who uses your garden – Do you have young children or pets? If so, you should take that into consideration when choosing your grass.
5. How you want it to look – You should love the way your new grass looks and it should add to the overall aesthetics of your residence. Choosing samples of grass can help you decide what you want before buying.
To learn more about this and get all your Home & Garden #projectssolved, come to the San Antonio Fall Home & Garden Show Sept. 29-Oct. 1st at the Alamodome. This article was provided by Hill Horticulture who will be there to consult on turfgrass and many other landscaping options!