DIY San Diego Blog

6 Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Windows

2022-06-30T17:17:46+00:00

Your home’s windows stand up to constant pressure and stress; they help insulate your home from outdoor temperatures, they resist foundation settlement and shifting of your wall framing, and they keep rain, snow, sun, and debris out of your living area. Unfortunately, all this stress means that windows will need to be replaced somewhat regularly, but many homeowners don’t know when they need replacement. Below, we’ll discuss six ways to tell if your windows need to be replaced and what each issue means.

1. You Notice Drafts

Windows are meant to minimize the energy transfer between your living space and the outside. However, as windows age, the seal they create gradually fails, and more heat can enter or escape your home’s interior. If you notice drafts coming from your windows in the winter or hot spots around your windows in the summer, it’s time to contact a window replacement company for an upgrade. This will reduce drafts, make your interior space more comfortable, and minimize the strain on your heating and AC systems.

2. Your Energy Bills Are Increasing

A more subtle sign that your windows need replacement is an increasing electric bill. Windows are your first line of defense against the outdoor temperatures, so increasing energy consumption or monthly bills are a clear sign that your window seals have failed. It’s wise to review your energy bills each season to see if your consumption has increased since the previous year. Just remember that you’ll experience natural fluctuations from season to season as you call on your heating and AC system at different times.

3. Your Windows Don’t Operate Normally

If you notice that your window sashes get stuck when you try to open them, or they slam closed and won’t stay open, your windows are likely old enough to warrant replacement. These are relatively minor issues in most cases that can be repaired, but they often only pop up on windows that are a decade or more old. If you start to notice these problems or other issues with normal window functionality, it’s a good sign that replacement will benefit you and help restore your home’s energy efficiency.

4. You Notice Condensation Between the Window Panes

Most modern windows have either double-pane or triple-pane glass, which means there are two or three layers of glass with a vacuum-sealed compartment between them filled with an insulative gas. If the seal between the panes fails, your window’s ability to minimize heat transfer between your living space and the exterior of your home will be diminished.

Along with reduced energy efficiency, you might also notice condensation forming between the panes that you can’t wipe off from the inside or the outside of the window. Windows fog if the interior or exterior temperature is significantly higher or lower than the other. Sealed double-pane and triple-pane windows rarely have condensation because of the added layer of insulation, but a failed seal will leave condensation between the panes. This is a clear sign that you need to replace your windows.

5. Visible Window Damage

It should go without saying that physical damage to your windows means that replacement is necessary. It’s a good idea to inspect your windows for visible damage, including chipped or cracked glass, chipping, peeling, or otherwise damaged window frames, and water spots, water damage, or mold around the wall opening. Any of these issues should trigger you to replace your windows immediately to protect your home and maintain a level of energy efficiency.

6. Outdoor Noises Are Suddenly Louder

Finally, if you notice that your living area is less peaceful, it could mean that your double- or triple-pane windows have failing seals. Insulated windows not only increase your home’s energy efficiency, but they also absorb sounds coming in from outdoors. If you find that neighbor conversations, road noise, or sounds from landscaping equipment are louder than they used to be, it’s a good sign that you need to replace your failing windows.

Window Maintenance Tips to Avoid Issues

Replacing windows can be expensive, so many homeowners will look for ways to minimize how often replacement is required. There are a few things you can do to prolong a window’s lifespan.

First, you can carry out regular cleaning and maintenance, even for issues that are seemingly insignificant. Cleaning the tracks and resealing your windows is a great practice for keeping up your home’s energy efficiency. Opting for a home warranty is often a good way to get this done and minimize costs. Some of the best home warranties are designed to keep your windows functioning properly for decades.

You can also inspect your windows regularly for issues. Look for and report cracking, chipping, peeling, and signs of leaking. Catching these issues early can mean a repair is possible rather than a full replacement.

For more information, contact one of our Windows Professionals at Dixieline Lumber and Home Centers. Visit us at https://www.dixieline.com/ or visit one of our convenient store locations.

What Is the Best Material for an Outdoor Shed?

2022-06-09T20:53:55+00:00

A shed can be a great addition to your garden. It can take a while to decide whether to purchase a shed. There are many options. Materials such as concrete, metal, and wood are likely to be challenging.

Every material has its advantages and disadvantages. It is essential to consider these factors when deciding. You may base your decision on appearance, customization, durability, security, or a combination, and shed builders such as Urban Sheds offer the best sheds ensuring them.

Best Outdoor Shed Materials

There are many options for outdoor sheds. It is essential to weigh all the factors before deciding. We have compiled a guide of the various materials to help you make informed decisions.

Concrete Sheds

Concrete sheds offer the best security and durability for your belongings. You can build storage in your shed, as you would inside your home. These sheds are not as customizable as wooden or metal sheds. Custom cast stone could be an intelligent decision in this case. However, they can be purchased with windows and other options.

Wooden Sheds

Wood is the most common choice for garden sheds in the USA and UK. It is the traditional choice, adding to the garden’s overall aesthetics. It is customizable, can be easily modified, and easy to make a variety of storage solutions.

Wooden sheds are attractive and provide flexible storage options and customization options. Wooden sheds are more expensive than other types, while wood can be susceptible to the elements. Extreme weather can severely damage wooden sheds and rot. So, it requires the most care of all shed materials.

Metal Sheds

Metal sheds can be made from either steel or galvanized aluminum. It’s an affordable option for first shed purchases. They have been around for many years and are less intense than wooden or resin sheds. We recommend an anchoring kit for sheds constructed in stormy areas. Metal sheds can also be rusty and susceptible to denting.

Metal shed kits don’t have the same aesthetic appeal as resin or wooden sheds. They also come in smaller sizes and shapes. Although metal sheds can be painted in many colors, they are not as durable as wood or resin sheds. They also require regular repainting to keep their appearance fresh. You should consider the foundation that you will need to build your metal shed. Many metal shed kits don’t include any floor. A metal shed is not recommended to store lawn equipment with a gravel foundation.

It's challenging to assemble a metal shed kit. Because of its nature, a metal shed’s interior can be challenging to customize or accessorize because of its core.

Resin or vinyl sheds

Resin sheds can be called vinyl or plastic sheds, depending on where they are purchased and the manufacturer. High-density polyethylene is used to make lifetime sheds. The newest on the market, Resin sheds have quickly become the most sought-after shed type.

Resin sheds can be made from a high-quality, lightweight plastic material. They are more robust than wooden sheds and last longer. Lifetime, for example, uses integrated steel supports and a double-wall to increase strength and durability. Resin sheds require no maintenance. They are stain-resistant, UV-protected, and do not need to be painted or stained like metal or wood sheds.

There are many sizes of resin shed kits available. Some manufacturers, such as Lifetime, also offer expansion kits that allow you to make the shed even larger. Resin sheds can be built in a matter of minutes. This kit is quick and straightforward to assemble and requires fewer tools, time, and “carpentry” knowledge than a wooden shed. While resin shed kits are more affordable than wooden ones, they are still more expensive than metal.

Although resin sheds can withstand heavy loads, they are not as strong as wooden sheds. Some resin sheds have an overhead loft that allows for more storage space.

Although resin sheds can be painted or shingled to match the house, they cannot be painted or stained. They allow you to add upgraded accessories like skylights and windows, shelving, lighting, and peg strips without additional wiring, cutting, or drilling. They have a clean interior with floor and plastic walls.

Final Words

Urban Sheds can create various outdoor structures, such as sheds or carports. Our experts can help you make the ideal structure for your budget, style, and needs. Contact us today to learn more about the body, roof, trim, and colors that we offer.

For more information, visit one of our Dixieline Lumber and Home Centers locations and speak with the pros. They will give you the assistance you need. For more information, browse our website at https://www.dixieline.com/.<

Autumn Roof Inspection and Repair

2020-12-03T21:27:16+00:00

Autumn Roof Inspection and Repair

When the winds become harsher, and the weather feels drier, you realize winter is practically here. It is the time of the year when you button up your home to protect it from the chill the same way you wear a hoodie to keep the cold from affecting you.

You can begin by seasonal repair and maintenance of your roof.

Why is Roof Maintenance Essential?

The roof is a big deal, and it just cannot be forgotten. A visual check from the ground is not enough. You might not even be able to see the obvious problems from ground level. It is recommended you or a professional goes up on the roof to inspect it properly.

Minor issues left unhandled and delayed can turn into stressful circumstances. For example, tiny holes or missing shingles can make your roof vulnerable. It will provide a space for the moisture to enter your home that can ruin paint, carpets, furniture, and even your electronic appliances. At first, you might only notice some slight discoloration on your ceiling, but as time passes, it starts to look like a water stain and then boom your roof starts leaking.

The routine maintenance and repairs can strengthen and extend the life of your roof. So even if your roof does not seem problematic, give it a check, it will not cost you a fortune but can surely save you one.

Why is the Autumn Season Ideal?

Here in Southern California, autumn marks the time of the Santa Ana Winds, and it is the ideal chance to assess any damage that may have occurred. The approaching winter rains can worsen the weight on an already compromised roof and can cause costly damage.

Roof repairs and preventive maintenance are more accessible to do in the fall months rather than during cold winter months, so make this a tradition every autumn. It is a great time to make sure that your roof is properly sealed and maintained before the winter rains arrive. The majority of roofs can handle all kinds of storms, hail, or rain, but there is always some wear and tear. The longer you delay roof repairs, the worse the damage will get.

We have listed some of the most common and essential things that you need to take care of during your roof inspection and repair process.

Shingles & Tiles

Inspect your roof visually and look for any missing or damaged shingles and tiles. Be sure to examine if they are installed correctly and functioning properly. Shingles curl and crack with their age, and winds shift tiles. Missing shingles and tiles let the rainwater begin soaking into the roof, and your roof is left vulnerable. Check with Dixieline Lumber's roofing professionals for a recommendation of replacement shingles and other products. Make repairs to your loose shingles and tiles while checking for other problems, including underlying materials that may require a replacement or repair. If you need to replace your roll roofing paper consider products from from Owens Corning, DuPoint, or Protecto Wrap. Also, check for the flashing around skylights, lighting tubes, and pipes, if you have any leaks or gaps, rainwater will find its way inside your home. Dixieline Lumber also carries many roof adhesives, coatings, fabrics, and sealants from companies like Henry, Gaco, and Through the Roof!

Roof Leaks

You can inspect leaks in the roof from discoloration, mold, and water running down from the ceiling inside the home. Identify the source and repair the leaks. Do it yourself, or you can call a professional if your roof is steep, more than two stories high, or even if you do not have the right tools or the knowledge of roof repair.

Overhanging Tree Branches

Tree branches can fall on your roof and cause damage, especially when there’s heavy snow, wind, and rain. The pouring storm can thrash limbs around or pull them from the tree entirely onto the roof structure resulting in substantial damage. Along with that, you may also be inviting animals like raccoons, squirrels, or rats to visit your roof. If you want to avoid these situations, cut, or trim any tree branches overhanging the rooftop so that there is no damage during a rainstorm.

Cleaning the Chimney

Do not ignore the chimney situation on your rooftop. Professionals say that chimney inspection is due at least once a year to find any blockages in the shaft and removing debris. The removal of creosote is also essential to prevent a risky fire into your home through the channel. Alongside, be sure that the chimney is covered from the top so that there is no entry to wildlife.

Cleaning the Gutters

Regularly check and clean the gutters. Make sure that the gutter system is unblocked by any collection of leaves, debris, and bugs because they create a clog very quickly. When the season changes, the tree leaves also change from beautiful yellow to orange and then reds before falling off the trees, ending up in the gutters around your space. When the rain pours, and water overflows the gutter, it damages the roof trim and siding, which adds more weight, causing gutters to pull loose and eventually collapse. Clogged drains are also one of the significant causes of ice dams, which again cause expensive damages to the roof.

Dixieline Lumber offers a broad selection of replacement gutter materials including downspouts, connectors, gutter guards, and strainers from manufacturers such as Frost King, Gutterstuff, Amerimax and Able Sheet Metal.

So, when the leaves fall, ensure to clean your gutters, or consider installing gutter guards to prevent the debris from invading in the first place.

These are the Roof Repairs Every Home Eventually Needs.

If you have any questions about roof repair, gutter service, damaged shingles, chimney repair, tree trimming, roof maintenance, or home improvements, contact us. We will be happy to help you with the best solutions for your home.

We know that roofing maintenance can be a daunting task to do and finding the right company for it just doubles the weight. Dixieline Lumber has been in business for over 80 years, which means we have seen it all, and we can fix it all for you. Please request a quote or give us a call!

We Look Forward to Becoming your Roofing Partner for a Lifetime!

Building Creative Shelving with Galvanized Pipe and Lumber

2020-11-20T18:34:08+00:00

Building Creative Shelving with Galvanized Pipe and Lumber

Pipe shelving is the latest hot trend for homeowners and students to create that cool industrial or Steam Punk look. It is easy to build any shelving configuration you require with common galvanized pipe and quality hardwood boards. Add some creativity painting the piping and staining the wood to make it look just right.

Everyone needs a place for books, house plants and photos. We all have that special memento or art piece that we enjoy sharing with friends. A shelf built with galvanized pipe is a great way to make your living space your own. Have some fun by adding plumbing valves and gauges to the piping configuration to give it your own unique look!

Pipe shelving works great in bedrooms, bathrooms, and offices. It also works well in game rooms, garages, and man caves. There is no limit to the creative ways you can make these shelving systems work other than your imagination.

If you recently had construction or plumbing projects completed in your home, you might have galvanized pipes and lumber left over. Recycle those extra pieces and add some spunk to an otherwise dreary space. If you do not have these materials nearby, then you can always visit a Dixieline Lumber and Home Center location and our professionals will be happy to help get what you need.

Here, is a step by step guide for you to get started:

Materials Punch List:

Step #1: Create a Plan

Look at the space and sketch out a design that will fit properly. Go online and search for “galvanized pipe shelves” for inspiration and to see various configurations. Once you have a blueprint, then you can measure the length of piping and boards that you will need. You can also figure how many elbow fittings and tee fittings are necessary. Plus, you will need flanges so the system can attach to the wall and the boards can attach to the piping. As you design your plan, consider where the studs are in the wall to give you target areas to place the flanges. This will help you create your shopping list. Make sure your shopping list also includes stain, paint, sanding materials, screws, tools and a stud finder.

Step #2: Visit Your Local Dixieline Lumber to Get Your Materials

Bring your shopping list and blueprint with you. One of our friendly professionals will help you select all of the items on your shopping list and offer advice along the way. There are many different types of hardwood you can choose from including ash, birch, maple, oak, poplar, teak, and pine. You can also choose from a wide selection of stains and spray paint colors. Did you know the pros at Dixieline Lumber can also cut your lumber to size to fit your design? That is a big step that will save you time.

Step #3: Cut the Boards (if necessary)

If you are a true Do-It-Yourselfer and enjoy the process, then you can cut the boards yourself. Consult your blueprint and then remeasure along the wall to confirm your design will fit properly. Then cut the boards accordingly. Remember, measure twice, cut once! A circular saw from Milwaukee, Makita, Skilsaw, DeWalt or Bosch will all work great.

Step #4: Sand the Boards

Often the wood surfaces are rough and don’t give a finished look even after you paint it. Lightly sand the wooden boards with sandpaper to smooth the surface and especially the cut edges. With just a little effort, your shelves will appear as if a professional carpenter did them.

Step #5: Apply the Stain

Once the boards are cut and sanded, then apply a coat of stain. Consider the look and feel of the room to get an idea of the coloring you want to achieve. A product from Old Masters, MinWax or Zar will work very well. Danish oil, boiled linseed oil or a clear acrylic finish also will look fantastic. Be sure to apply additional coats and give proper time to dry according to the instructions.

Step #6: Paint the Pipe, Fittings and Flanges

While the boards are left to dry, apply a coat of spray paint to the pipes and the pipe clamps. Your color choice can be aligned with the room’s coloring or choose a contrasting color for a burst of creativity. Many spray paints from Rust-oleum also include textured finishes to give the piping a more realistic, industrial look. Apply two coats to get the best coverage while doing your best to avoid painting the threads.

Step #7: Assemble the Pipes

Now the fun really starts! Join the pipes together, matching the design you selected. Make sure they are appropriately fixed and screwed together securely. Remember, these will be bearing weight, so they need to be put together properly. If a part seems faulty, replace it right away.

Step #8: Screw the Flanges to the Wall

Mark the places you will need to place the screws. Reconfirm these are at the proper place for a stud. Use a level to make sure the flanges will be placed properly so the shelving is level. Then carefully screw the flanges to the wall.

Step #9: Attach the Boards

With the pipes assembled on the wall, lightly place the boards on the flanges and make sure they are positioned properly. Then mark the locations you will need to screw the board to the flange. You may want to use a small drill bit in each spot to make the screw go in easier. Be sure to test the system by place some objects on the shelves. Make sure the system is steady, level and will support weight.

Step #10: Decorate

Once your galvanized pipe shelving passes the test, decorate it! Add books, artwork, plants, and other knick-knacks to personalize your space and make it feel like home.

Top 10 Creative Uses of Decking Material

2020-11-05T22:51:52+00:00

Top 10 Creative Uses of Composite Decking Material

Decking products from Trex, TimberTech, Fiberon and AZEK are not used only for patio flooring. Often these composite decking boards can transform a home project from good to great. As a bonus, you will save money with little maintenance and it will look great for a long time.

Our lumber and outdoor living pros at Dixieline Lumber have seen a wide range of creative applications for decking material. Our DIY homeowner and contractor customers have created amazing projects. Here are some ideas to help you get inspiration for your next project.

#1: Planter Boxes

A little touch of greenery on your deck adds color and life to your outdoor living space. Rather than potted plants that leak and leave marks on your decking, consider building planter boxes with composite decking material. These beautiful structures can contain seasonal flowers, herbs, a small vegetable garden or any number of other creative plant options. Attach a small bench seat along the side to invite your guests to relax and enjoy the relaxing energy. These composite decking planter boxes can perfectly match your existing composite decking flooring or be used as a contrasting design choice to complement your brick or decorative concrete patio flooring.

#2: Bird Houses

This is a fun project to use up any scrap decking material from your recent decking installation. Adding colorful birdhouses to your outdoor living space may be just the right creative touch to make your project shine. Why buy a generic birdhouse when you can create something special yourself that your guests will enjoy? Creating a funky birdhouses is a perfect project for a DIY homeowner and their children or grandchildren to do together.

#3: Storage Shed and Storage Containers

There is no such thing as too much storage space. You can use composite decking material to create a beautiful, long lasting shed to store your outdoor landscaping tools. If you want to get really creative, consider building a small standalone structure for your outdoor mancave and attach composite decking boards as siding to give it an artistic touch. If you do not have space to build a storage shed, you can construct smaller storage containers to keep toys, cushions, and other outdoor materials for the rainy months.

#4: Furniture

Our outdoor living professionals have seen customers design a range of interesting furniture with outdoor decking materials. Building benches along the edge of the deck is an obvious choice. Consider creating coffee tables, picnic benches, Adirondack chairs or even an outdoor desk.

#5: Shelving

Imagine a composite decking shelving system attached along the side of your house displaying plants and other outdoor art. Get creative indoors using decking boards and galvanized piping to build shelves in a bedroom or an office.

#6: Doghouse

Did you enjoy building the bird house and now want to create something larger? Consider a doghouse build from composite decking boards. Get creative with door and window openings, alternating colors for an A-frame roof, or even a mini deck attached to the doghouse for your family pet to enjoy.

#7: Cornhole Set

This is an easy project to enhance your outdoor deck with a fun game your whole family can enjoy. A Cornhole Set made of the same composite decking boards as your flooring will look spectacular while resisting the elements. Get creative and add a composite decking score board with a chalkboard mounted on the boards or inside a small case with closing doors like a dartboard system.

#8: Pickup Truck Bed

Have you seen old pickups that have wooden flooring in their pickup bed? We have seen truck enthusiasts instead use composite decking material for both newer and vintage pickup trucks. This gives the truck a craftsman’s look with some great styling.

#9: Trash Bin Enclosure

Consider building a small fence and gate with composite decking material to surround the area where you keep your trash containers. This will hide the site of trash and recyclables while adding a cool look to an otherwise mundane space.

#10: Home Siding

Many architects will use wood siding on a house to give it a warm, textured design element that catches the eye. Using composite decking boards rather than traditional wood ensures your siding will last a long time without the need for significant maintenance.

There are so many other options including backyard fencing, outdoor dividers, decking for a meandering pathway or a fun tree house. Your only limit is your imagination.

For more information, contact one of our Outdoor Living Professionals at Dixieline Lumber and Home Centers. Visit us at https://www.dixieline.com/ or visit one of our convenient store locations.

Top 10 Issues when Buying a Front Door

2020-10-19T16:44:57+00:00

Top 10 Issues when Buying a New Front Door

They say that the first impression is everything and your front door is one of the first things a visitor sees when entering your house. The right door can make a great first impression as well as validate your personal style. Your front door is a representation of your home, your life, and you.

When installing a new front door entrance, you have to keep in mind that the new door complements both the interior and the exterior of the house. The décor, quality, budget, climate conditions, fixtures, and finish all play an important part in your decision. Although there are not any set rules when purchasing the door, there are few factors that one should keep in mind.

Our Dixieline Lumber and Home Center Door Experts put together this handy Top 10 list to help you make the right decision for your new front door.

#1: Front Door Style

It all starts with style. The design aesthetic of your door should match your home’s architecture but still offer a creative style that showcases your personality. Generally, the simplest advice is to get a door that complements the existing property style. Designs that match the aesthetics of your house add more depth to the details. There are doors available in a selection of shades or can be customized according to your décor. Choose between double entry doors, decorative doors, entry doors with sidelights and transom, elegant front doors with glass panels, or even a speakeasy door with a small opening window.

#2: Front Door Size

After deciding the style, next consider the size of your front door. Is your space wide enough for a double entry door? Could you consider an extra wide single door? Is there space around the door opening for glass panels? You have a blank slate when you are constructing a new house, but if you are remodeling you may be constrained by the physical limitations of the space of your entry.

#3: Front Door Material

When choosing the material for your door, it is highly recommended that you consider the exposure your door has to the elements. A wood door will work well if it is beneath an overhang where it is protected from the rain and it gets shade on a continuous basis. Hardwoods like oak or mahogany are mostly preferred by homeowners, but there is a huge variety of materials in the market to choose from. If your front door will get significant sun or rain exposure, it is recommended you consider a composite material that is much more resistant to the elements. Composite front doors look just like real wood and rarely lose their luster. Steel front doors are always an option for those that want extra security and durability.

#4: Front Door Security

Security is an essential element for every homeowner. You must keep in mind that even the strongest door is only as good as the strength of the frame and the quality of the installation into the property. You can fortify your home with a sturdy and robust front door that has features such as multi-point locks. You can also replace the traditional spy hole with a front door security camera and a smartphone app to see who is knocking on your door, whether you are at home or not. Many other wireless or touch screen locks are available that use the latest technology. These new technologies can be especially handy if you use your home as an Airbnb rental and need to avoid keys and continuously change your security code.

#5: Front Door Handles and Hinges

As for the fixtures and fittings, the number of choices is nearly unlimited. Most homeowners choose decorative hardware that complement the door, but some like to choose handles and hinges that make a bold contrast. You might choose to remove some of the usual fixtures and fittings the door comes with and replace them with upgraded styles. For example, you can choose a larger door handle on a plain door and individually select the details such as door hinges, draught strips, locks, etc. With so many options to choose from, you do not need to compromise on design - there is something for every situation.

#6: Front Door Installation

It is important that your door installer has an excellent reputation for quality. Installing a front door is no easy task and requires a specialized skills to get it right. Front door installers will need to prepare the rough opening, cut stucco, install a sill, add weather proofing, level/square/plumb the frame, add insulation, use trip edge guards to cover edges and then paint both the door and the house around the door opening. Be sure to check references on your installer or consulting with your door salesperson for assistance.

#7: Front Door Glazing

If the design of your front door includes glass, proper glazing can completely change the whole look and feel of the front entrance. You can choose from clear, tinted, frosted, and patterned glass available in three different formats. While doing so, consider balancing factors such as the natural light gained from clear glass with the look and privacy from patterned or obscured glazing.

#8: Front Door Durability

The doors need to be sturdy and durable enough so that they can withstand wear and tear. Whether you decide to get wood, steel, fiberglass, or even faux wood for your door, you should make sure the material you are choosing is durable enough with high shelf life. If you are choosing a wood material, be prepared to do periodic maintenance, such as staining and sealing, to ensure your front door is protected from rain and sun exposure.

#9: Front Door Cost

A good quality front door is a long-term investment; there will be a significant return on the initial cost over the years of usage. A great looking front door has tremendous curb appeal for that day when you need to sell your home. So be sure to get this right. Opting for a door that is initially cheap may cost you more in the long run as these doors make savings using lower-quality materials, manufacture, or installation that may affect the structure, insulation, and security.

#10: Front Door Maintenance

Last but not least, the most important factor to consider while buying doors is that they need to have low maintenance. As a front door is a one-time investment, you must choose the right material, and plan the door installation in a manner that minimizes its maintenance cost.

Conclusion

Your front door will be the first thing visitors will see, and it will definitely leave an impression. Make your decision wisely, but still have some fun doing it and add your artistic flair. With so many choices and opportunities to give your house the perfect door, you will find the right one in no time.

For more information, contact one of our Door Professionals at Dixieline Lumber. Visit us at https://www.dixieline.com/front-doors-and-entry-doors or visit one of our convenient store locations.

Composting 101

2020-07-22T19:18:00+00:00

Composting 101

Consider placement of the compost pile carefully. It should be convenient to add to the pile and must have easy access for watering, turning and removal of the compost. Drainage must also be considered. Be sure water won’t pool around it – compost should be kept only about as wet as a wrung-out sponge.

To ensure that there is enough air for the microbes to work, turn the pile every week or so with a pitchfork or shovel. This may slow the process in the center temporarily, but you will have much better results with the entire compost. You may want to add sticks or poke holes in the pile with a pole to ensure that it is aerated.

“Food” for the compost (nitrogen and carbon) comes from green and brown organic matter. The “green” (nitrogen) is usually moist or wet materials and the “brown” (carbon) is the source of energy for the microbes and is dry and bulky materials which may need to be watered when added into the compost.

Recommended Compostable Materials

"Brown" (high in carbon)	"Green" (high in nitrogen)
Corncobs	Bread & Pastas
Corn Stalks	Coffee Grounds & Tea Bags
Dry Weeds	Eggshells
Fallen Leaves	Fruit Scraps
Hay and Straw	Grain Waste
Nutshells	Grass Clippings
Pine Needles	Green Weeds
Sawdust (not from treated wood)	Hair (pet and human)
Twigs and Branches (dry)	Manure
Vegetable Stalks	Seaweed (rinsed)
	Vegetable Scraps

Do not add pet or human waste, diseased plants, meat scraps, bones, grease, fat, coal ashes from the grill or dairy products to your compost. “When in doubt – leave it out!”

The minimum size for a compost pile is three cubic feet. This size will allow for the microbes to heat up for a faster composting process. Begin with some branches and twigs to help with airflow. Mix about six inches of brown and two to three inches of green materials together and add a compost activator to start the process. Cover with approximately two inches of soil to control odors. Keep the center concave to reduce run-off. Sprinkle with water but don’t soak.

By chopping up kitchen scraps and woody material larger than ¼” in diameter before adding them, you will help speed up the decomposition process. Turn and sprinkle the pile with water once a week. When the pile is no longer hot and the materials are dark, crumbly and smell like rich soil with no odor, the compost is finished. The entire process takes approximately three to six months to complete.

If your compost is healthy, you shouldn’t have any problems with odor, flies, rodents or animals. When adding grass clippings, mix them in thoroughly so they don’t mat up. Too much moisture can make the compost rot rather than decompose. If you have large quantities of clippings, you may not want to add them all at one time. Bury food scraps 6-12” into the center to prevent flies.

Dixieline Lumber offers these quality products to ensure your composting is a success!

for turning and stirring:

for composting:

Waste Disposal and Composters

Planting and Growing Your Bare Root Tree

2020-07-22T00:28:37+00:00

Selection
Choose a variety that stands a good chance of performing well in your area – check the information for each variety, remembering that the San Diego area has a multitude of microclimates. How much heat do you get? How much winter chill do you get? How heavy is your soil? Does your tree need a pollinizer? Does your planting site have enough sun?

Planting

In virtually every soil, including sand and clay, bare root trees are best planted in your native soil. Less is more when it comes to amending your soil.

You want your tree’s roots to reach far into the surrounding soil, and if you have added too much the roots will tend to grow only in the richest soil right around the trunk.

A tree planted from bare root will grow into a more vigorous, strongly rooted tree that will reach for its own water and nutrients more aggressively than a spring or summer planted container tree. Root Zone is an excellent product to add into your soil for encouraging root growth, as it will “enliven” your soil via living mycrohizzal organisms. Avoid adding fruit fertilizer until you see plump, developing buds already forming on your tree.

The soil at planting time should be moist and crumbly, not saturated. Saturated soil is indicated by water standing for more than three hours after a rain.

Dig a hole three times larger than the root’s spread, and break up all clumps. Set aside the dirt from the top 3” as you are digging – you will place this back on top once the tree has been planted in the hole, mimicking the natural layers of the soil.

Place some dirt back into the hole and tamp it down. Place your tree in the hole and shake it gently while adding soil so that the soil will fall in between the roots. Gently tamp it down.

The soil surface should be slightly higher than or level with, the native soil when you are finished. If settling creates a basin, fill it with soil. The graft should face north to avoid sunburning and be 2-6” above ground.

Stake your tree to keep the roots from breaking off as the tree rocks in the wind. A four foot stake driven two feet deep is usually sufficient. Smaller semi-dwarf varieties may need substantial staking their entire lives.

Watering
Begin watering the tree when the soil a few inches down begins to dry. During the growing season, water deeply as needed, usually at 3-4 week intervals (sandy soils may require more frequent watering). Once established, some trees in this area will require little or no irrigation, although a post-harvest drenching can increase next year’s bloom. Infrequent, deep waterings are much better for your tree than frequent, shallow watering.

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Waste Disposal and Composters

Planting and Growing Your Bare Root Tree