September 2024 Newsletter

We’ve had our first taste of fall with some cooler temps. It might be time to start bringing out cozy throws and swapping lighter-weight bedding for flannel. Thicker area rugs and curtains not only help the home feel warmer, but they can also help save on energy bills. If you have older windows in your home, adding new weatherstripping can help retain heat and stop drafts.

If you have a wood stove or fireplace, now would be a good time to order wood. There should be plenty available after our storm last month. Also, schedule an inspection or cleaning by a chimney sweep so you’re ready for those fall fires.

Kids are back to school — giving them a dedicated homework area that’s comfortable and organized will help them focus. If the dining room table is the best option, have a space nearby where supplies can be kept.

If you haven’t done so, inspect your roof and gutters for debris or sticks that could block water flow. Schedule any repairs now so your home will be ready when winter comes.

September is a great time to plan ahead for next year’s lawn. Seeding now will give new grass time to get established before winter without being exposed to harsh summer temperatures.

The Remodelers Council Golf Tournament was held at Holmes Lake Golf Course in August. Willet was represented by (from left to right) Jenny Huls, Jenny Samek, Jeremy Carpenter, and Eric McMann. The proceeds from this event provide scholarships for high school and college students. The Lincoln Home Builders Care Foundation’s mission is to support the educational and charitable activities of the Home Builders Association of Lincoln.

Featured Project: Striking Siding

Here is our featured project for September: Striking Siding.

Design Corner

The theme this month is Industrial. This is a more minimalist and masculine style with lots of metal, rustic wood, and leather. Aside from moving into an old factory building, you can achieve an industrial look by incorporating exposed elements like brick, pipes, or ducts. Including open shelving and simple seating contributes to an open and airy feeling. Adding vintage lighting or factory windows to an interior wall will add to the industrial ambiance.

Fun Fact

You’ve probably heard of shiplap, but have you heard of barge board? Back in the 19th century, barges would carry goods down the Mississippi River to New Orleans. Since there wasn’t a way to get them back up the river, they were dismantled, and their lumber was used to build houses.

The poplar or pine planks would be about 2” thick and up to 20’ long, so they could extend the full height of a two-story house. No additional support would be needed for windows and doors, so the framing would stand out from the walls when inserted. Clapboard siding would be applied directly to the exterior, and wallpaper would be applied directly to the rough interior with adhesive.