(NewsUSA) - Making the nursery and other children’s spaces safe, healthy, and beautiful is every parent’s goal. Strong and natural, American Hardwoods™ can help achieve it: from the reassuring solidity of a crib to the cozy ease of bunk beds, from the satisfying feel of carved toys to the charm of kid-size furniture, and from the tidiness of well-conceived storage to the warmth of architectural millwork. “Materials matter for those who matter most,” says Ian Faight of the American Hardwood Information Center. “Hardwoods like oak, maple, cherry, and walnut offer durability, low-emission performance, and an organic sense of comfort—qualities that support children’s well-being and safety while standing up to everyday use.” Here are six examples of hardwood doing just that.

The Childspose panel crib by Green Cradle Organic Home and Baby (greencradle.com) is as gorgeous—and as safe—a nursery essential as you could wish for. Made in the U.S. from 100 percent solid hardwood, it’s not only sturdy and durable but also finished with non-toxic, VOC-free natural linseed oil, so baby—and you—can breathe easy. Offered in maple, oak, cherry, or walnut, the crib is an heirloom in the making. Photograph courtesy of Green Cradle

Growing kids need furniture that can keep up. Waverly bunk beds by Room & Board (roomandboard.com) do just that, with solid hardwood construction—walnut or natural or painted maple—and smart, space-saving twin-over-twin or twin-over-full configurations. Suitable for ages 6 and up, the versatile piece delivers safety and ease while giving a shared room a fun, vertical lift. Photograph courtesy of Room & Board

The solid maple Kiddie Car from Community Playthings (communityplaythings.com) taps into something timeless: the simple pleasure of a wooden toy built to be touched, pushed, and passed along. Rounded edges and a nontoxic finish highlight the wood’s warmth, recalling generations of hand-carved playthings that gained character through use. Available in two sizes—for ages 1–2 and 2–4—it’s robust, tactile, and appealingly uncomplicated, a reminder that the best toys often begin with honest wood. Photograph courtesy of Community Playthings

The Kids Set by EARL (earl-home.com) brings sophisticated design and superb craftsmanship into a child’s everyday world. With a round table and chairs in meticulously finished hardwood—walnut/maple, white oak or ebonized oak—it gives children a tangible introduction to thoughtful material and joinery. Aesthetically elevated, yet durable and entirely approachable, it encourages play, creativity, and early appreciation for well-made objects. Photograph by Jenny Kim

The custom wall-mounted storage unit in this Miami kids’ room by Agsia Design (agsia.com) brings shipshape order with a welcome burst of energy. Crafted in solid oak, the mix of drawers, cabinets, and open cubbies keeps toys and supplies within easy reach, while the glossy enamel paint on the doors and drawer fronts animates the room with bright color, inviting kids to dive into whatever enticements the compartments may hold. Photograph by Moris Moreno

In this remodeled Washington, DC, basement rec room, Wentworth Architects & Builders (wentworthstudio.com) use hardwood millwork to create a space that suits kids and adults alike. Wrapping the structural columns in solid maple slats introduces a sense of play and discovery for children while giving the room the clean visual order grownups prefer—equally ready for games and crafts or quiet conversation and a cup of coffee. Photograph by Stacy Zarin Goldberg.

Visit www.hardwoodinfo.com for more about using American hardwoods in your home.

(NewsUSA) - Want a home exterior that looks distinctive, contemporary, and inviting yet stands up reliably to real-world conditions? As an architectural material, cypress slats deliver a rare balance of great looks and lasting performance, bringing rhythm, shade, privacy, and an airy lightness to façades, porches, balconies, and garden structures. “Cypress is naturally resistant to moisture, insects, and decay, making it exceptionally well suited to exterior use—and it looks beautiful doing the job,” says Ian Faight of the Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association. The wood also is ideal for the increasingly popular shou sugi ban charring treatment, which creates a range of finishes that further enhance its character and durability. Here are six compelling projects that show what cypress slats can do.

Set in a Texas Hill Country meadow, this striking residence by Miró Rivera Architects (@miroriveraarch) is a contemporary take on barns, shotgun cottages, and other traditional rural buildings. Its centerpiece is a screen porch with a soaring 30-foot-high pitched roof. Warm cypress siding sets the volume apart from the rest of the house, which is clad in white corrugated aluminum, while cypress slats reinterpret the classic vented gable, keeping the space light and airy. Photograph by Paul Finkel

A brise-soleil of shou sugi ban–treated cypress slats runs the full length of this sprawling beach house in Bridgehampton, New York, by BMA Architects (@bma.architects). With its rhythm of carefully spaced vertical elements extending past both ends of the two-story residence, the dramatic, dark-hued screen unites the home’s three wings without adding visual bulk, while providing privacy and shade yet still allowing ocean breezes to pass through. Photograph by Michael Stavaridis

Dane Spencer Landscape Architecture (danespencer-landscapearchitect.com) uses cypress slats to elegant effect in this handsome arched portal in a Sarasota, Florida, garden. Finished with Sherwin-Williams WoodScapes exterior stain, the structure frames and partially screens the backyard, adding both privacy and a hint of intrigue. The slats are robust enough to give the arch heft without creating heaviness, while the “keyhole” for the branch is a particularly charming detail. Photograph by Giovanni Lunardi

Shou sugi ban cypress siding with an overlay of slender battens gives this Montauk, New York, beach house by Desai Chia Architecture (@desaichiaarchitecture) a distinctive slatted look. The play of ridges and shadows enlivens the timber skin without overwhelming the home’s crisp, modern form, which nods to the simple silhouettes of the local community’s cottages and shacks, while the color and texture of the charred finish evoke the weathered character of longtime oceanside structures. Photograph by Eric Striffler

Commissioned with renovating the exterior of a mid-century house in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Christian Dean Architecture (@christiandeanarchitecture) created a dynamic composition by cladding individual volumes in different materials—dark cement board, gray stucco, and blonde cypress siding. But the architects framed the large, second-floor terrace and balcony with slatted cypress railings that lighten and visually “dematerialize” these elements, adding texture and depth to the rectilinear structure without increasing its apparent mass. Photograph by Chad Holder

With its stripes, bright colors, and playful angles, this backyard addition to a Hollywood, California, house by Hughes Umbanhowar Architects (@huumarchitects) crackles with showbiz energy. Overlooking the pool, the full-width balcony off the second-floor is framed by a trellis of shou sugi ban cypress slats whose spacing widens as the structure projects outward. By diffusing sunlight, casting atmospheric shadows, and providing privacy from neighboring houses, the slats make the space an inviting gathering spot. Photograph by Eszter + David

Visit www.cypressinfo.org for more about using cypress in your home.

(NewsUSA) - In the United States, severe weather events continue to increase on an annual basis, and with that comes the growing threat of power outages. During National Preparedness Month in September, experts recommend developing a plan to stay safe during a storm-induced power outage, including determining the best backup power options for your home and lifestyle.

A recent study from Texas A&M University found that the U.S. has experienced a 20% annual increase in power outage severity since 2019. With that has come increases in the length and frequency of power outages with more customers being affected annually.

Areas that have reported some of the highest risks of weather-induced blackouts fall along the coastlines and in the Great Lakes regions – areas that commonly see severe weather like hurricanes, tornadoes or powerful thunderstorms.

“As the number of severe weather events rise, so too has the number of blackouts,” said Kyle Raabe, President of Consumer Power for Generac Power Systems. “In 2024, the U.S. had nearly 1.5 billion electric outage hours, which was the most since Generac began tracking this statistic. Homeowners should prioritize backup power to plan for their own safety and security during a storm-induced outage.”

For National Preparedness Month, the power outage experts at Generac advise people to make a plan for severe weather that includes a source of backup power and to identify the backup power option that will best fit their home’s needs in the next outage.

Several options exist for those looking to secure backup power in emergency situations. Each has advantages and drawbacks, and the choice will depend on individual needs, budget and the specific risks posed by the local climate.

• Home Standby Generators are not only a more permanent solution but also the most reliable option. These units are installed outside the home and are connected directly to the electrical panel. Standby generators are powered by natural gas or propane and automatically activate when utility power is disrupted, allowing for continuous power for extended periods of time. This makes them ideal for homes in areas prone to frequent or prolonged outages.
• Portable Generators, also known as open frame generators, are an ideal option for emergency backup power. Fueled by gasoline or liquid propane, portable generators can power the whole home or connect to individual appliances with an extension cord. While larger than inverters and portable power stations, portable generators include features like handles and tires for easy positioning.
• Inverter Generators are an efficient, lightweight portable generator, perfect for those who want a compact but powerful backup power solution. Unlike classic portable generators, inverter generators are fully enclosed and operate quietly. The easy start function is a distinct benefit of inverter generators, which start with the turn of a dial instead of the manual pull cord used on larger generators.
• Battery-Powered Portable Power Stations are an emission-free option that doesn’t require fuel, offering a backup power source designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Ideal for condos or apartments, they are even quieter than inverter generators, operating without any sound. Portable power stations are the smallest backup power option and can power a wide range of electronics that are crucial during an outage, including phones, refrigerators, sump pumps, laptops and more.

The 2025 fall and winter seasons are expected to bring a high risk of extreme weather events, making backup power solutions a preparedness priority. Hurricanes and severe storms can significantly damage the power grid, leaving homes without electricity for days or weeks.

A backup power source is not just about convenience; it’s about being prepared for the unexpected. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you can maintain essential functions, such as heating, cooking, and communication, during a power outage is invaluable. Generac is a global leader in energy technology and offers information and resources at https://www.generac.com/prepare/

(NewsUSA) - As heatwaves intensify and storms grow more severe, the risk of prolonged power outages continues to climb. Forecasters across the country are sounding the alarm that extreme weather is no longer the exception, but the norm. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) projects that a highly active Atlantic hurricane season will persist through 2025, with elevated potential for disruption to the power grid.

With these climate patterns in mind, reliable backup power is becoming a necessity. And while home standby generators receive much of the attention in conversations about emergency preparedness, a reliable transfer switch is just as essential to providing reliable, automatic power and home comfort during an outage.

Why the Transfer Switch Matters
A standby generator may be the muscle of your backup power system, but the transfer switch is the mechanism that enables the automatic backup experience. The system detects the loss of utility power and automatically reroutes the home's electrical power from the generator without the need for manual, owner intervention.

Generac, the leader in residential backup power, has long understood this critical connection. That’s why the company has introduced its most advanced line of residential home standby generators and automatic transfer switches. Now, the industry’s first all-new residential automatic transfer switch features factory-installed, full-home integrated surge protection to help protect both the home and the generator itself from harmful power surges.  The average US home has $15,000 worth of equipment that can be potentially damaged by power surges, according to the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA).  

Choosing the Right Generator System
Home standby generators are powered by natural gas or propane, providing a continuous fuel supply via direct utility or on-site storage for extended runtime during grid failures. When integrated with a high-performance automatic transfer switch, a home standby generator forms a closed-loop system that delivers immediate, automatic power to full home and essential home systems. This makes them ideal for homes in areas prone to frequent or prolonged outages. While more costly than portable generators, they offer powerful peace of mind and convenience.

When evaluating backup power options, it’s important to first consider the size of your home and your household’s potential needs during an outage. Start by identifying the essential loads you want to keep powered, which might include heating or air conditioning systems, refrigeration for food preservation, lighting, and any critical equipment or supplies. Then review your typical energy consumption patterns to understand what level of power output your generator must support. This includes factoring in whether you want to maintain full-home functionality or focus only on priority systems. Accurately sizing your system from the start helps ensure optimal performance, safety, and long-term reliability.

Powering Resilience and the Future of the Grid
In addition to protecting home comfort during outages, new programs allow many homeowners to leverage their backup power systems to support broader energy resilience through Virtual Power Plant (VPP) programs. These utility-led initiatives, where available, enable participating generators to supply power back to the grid during periods of high demand, thereby helping to stabilize local infrastructure and potentially earning financial incentives in the process.

A key component to participating in these programs efficiently and safely is an automatic transfer switch. Generac’s new automatic transfer switches are designed to instantly detect utility loss and transition the home to generator power. This hands-free operation is not only ideal for outage preparedness but also critical for meeting the responsiveness and automation standards many VPP programs require.

For homeowners looking to future-proof their homes while contributing to grid stability, a standby generator paired with a high-performance transfer switch offers the best of both worlds: uninterrupted comfort during outages, and meaningful participation in tomorrow’s energy ecosystem.
 

(NewsUSA) - If you’re looking to freshen up your living space, it’s easy to get swept away in on-trend designs. But while trends come and go, savvy homebuilders and designers agree that there’s one thing that never goes out of style: natural wood details, such as those crafted from a versatile species like cypress. Here are a handful of helpful tips to flip your home from drab to fab.  

Accentuate Walls
For decades, accent walls have been a popular way to jazz up a room. But, today’s homeowners are ditching bold paints in favor of a wooden backdrop that can create a cozy setting in any room. “A shiplap wall can completely transform a mundane room,” says Stephen Ellis of MGB Fine Custom Homes in Sarasota, Florida. “I like working with shiplap cypress with a nickel gap. It’s available in multiple grades—offering the perfect combination of visual interest and texture without being overbearing—and it stands up to dings and dents better than drywall.”

Make a Statement with Ceilings
Accent walls are one thing, but have you heard of statement ceilings? Top designers are crafting elegant ceilings with wood. “Cypress is lightweight and easy to work with, making it ideal for ceiling treatments ranging from planks and beams to intricate coffers,” says Charlotte, North Carolina-based designer Vicki Payne. “I recently completed a chic dining room that features a tray ceiling enhanced with cypress. The wood—with its rich grain and natural color—is the showpiece of the space.”

Top Off the Kitchen
When it comes to designing the heart of your home, architect Michelle Bultman from Stuart, Florida, relies on a few principles. “Simple lines, uncluttered counters, and modern materials,” she says. “Overall, I believe simplicity is the ultimate form of elegance, but ceilings often offer untapped potential in kitchens. I prefer working with neutral tones—whites and grays—on most surfaces, but introducing a wood element, such as a tongue-and-groove cypress ceiling, can add complementary warmth and character to an otherwise cool, modern palette.”

Rethink Doors
If simple swinging doors are too basic, consider installing an eye-catching barn door instead. “I’ve been including sliding barn doors in many projects,” says architect Geoff Chick from Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. “They work great for closets, laundry rooms, wet bars, room partitions, and other semi-private spaces. Most often, I custom fabricate barn doors out of cypress because of the wood’s natural beauty and ability to accept a variety of finishes.” 

Enjoy the Outdoors
Outdoor living space is one of the most sought after features in a new or renovated home. And when it comes to specifying materials to create stunning spaces, Stephen Ellis chooses cypress. “With porches and patios, ceilings are often an afterthought,” he says. “I like to add a finished look with cypress for multiple reasons. First, not only is cypress naturally resistant to insect infestation, but it’s also an incredibly stable wood that performs well in areas with constantly changing humidity levels. One of my recent projects is all cypress—porch ceilings, beams, and board-and-batten siding. Cypress’ natural characteristics and good looks enhance the relaxing vibe almost as much as the ocean views.”

“Wood is a timeless building material,” says Mark Tuck of the Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association, “and when you’re talking about a versatile species like cypress, it provides aesthetic warmth, lasting value, and dependable performance in—or out of—the house. Small upgrades can make a big impact—and they’re more affordable than a full-on remodel.” 

Is it time to upgrade your living space? Think cypress! Visit www.CypressInfo.org to get inspired.

(NewsUSA) - Backyards are getting a serious glow-up—and pools are leading the charge. From modern designs with resort-worthy features to automation that practically runs the show, today’s pools are all about style and simplicity. The best part? They're easier than ever to own with less upkeep and more “ahhh.”

Whether you're planning a new pool or thinking about an upgrade, here are five trends making waves on the pool scene, according to the experts at Latham, The Pool Company:

Bold Colors & Custom Patterns

Say goodbye to bland and hello to bold. Sleek, modern pool shapes—from rectangles to abstract curves—are pairing with rich, dark blue hues for a dramatic look. Homeowners are also ditching tile borders for seamless, continuous interior patterns, with contrasting accents on steps and ledges to create a high-end, custom vibe.

Plunge Pools with Big Appeal

Don’t have a massive backyard? No problem. Plunge pools offer all the perks of a traditional pool in a smaller, more efficient footprint. Latham’s new plunge designs feature built-in seating, slip-resistant steps, and stylish finishes. Bonus: They use less water, are cheaper to heat, and are easier to maintain—making them a smart, sustainable choice.

Pool & Spa Combos

Why choose between a pool and a spa when you can have both? Combo designs bring together the best of both worlds—relaxing jets, tanning ledges, and spillover spas that add visual appeal and soothing sounds. Whether you're cooling off or winding down, this trend turns your backyard into a five-star escape.

Formidable Fiberglass

Fiberglass pools are having a major moment, and for good reason. They’re strong, stylish, and incredibly easy to maintain. Thanks to their smooth, non-porous surface, they resist algae and need fewer chemicals than concrete pools. Even better? They can be installed in just a few days, so you can dive in sooner—and with less hassle.

Awesome Automation

Automation is making pool ownership simpler than ever. With tools like The Attendant, you can monitor and adjust your pool’s chemistry, temperature, and settings—all from the convenience of your phone. Add an automatic safety cover and you’ve got a pool that practically runs itself while saving on energy and maintenance.

Ready to bring your backyard to life? Visit www.LathamPool.com for more inspiration and to learn about financing partners who can help you get funding quickly so you can be splashing in your new pool in no time.

(NewsUSA) - Trying to be better organized and looking to overcome your storage dilemma with more than a dull metal rack or a makeshift cubby? Take your cue from these design pros. Throughout the home, they’re creating functional and beautiful storage solutions. How? They’re doing it with all-natural cypress. And you can, too!

Starting at the Entryway

A well-designed mudroom—crafted to handle the mess of rain, mud, snow, and sand—can be warm, welcoming, and functional, as well. Ian Faight of the Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association, www.CypressInfo.org, suggests using cypress to dress up that high-traffic space. “Cypress is a beautiful wood, perfect for cabinets and cubbies, flooring, paneling, and ceilings,” he explains. “And it’s a durable material that can stand up to everyday use—and look good doing it.” Photo courtesy of Bob Gothard

Cypress in the Kitchen

At the heart of it all, and integral to any practical kitchen layout, is the island—that all-encompassing oasis used for storing pots and pans, preparing meals, and working on homework. “In the kitchen, homeowners are looking for functional design with as much storage space as possible,” says Ellie Schroder from Maison de Reve Buildings, Abita Springs, Louisiana. “If you have modern, painted cabinets, set off the island in a complementary color and a textured wood like pecky cypress, so that the island is like a piece of fine furniture that’s different from the rest of the kitchen.” Photo courtesy Julie D. Philippus

In the Bedroom

Closets and dressers are great for keeping clothes out of sight, but they don’t offer much storage for knickknacks, picture frames, and other personal items. Woodworker Julie Philippus from Mandeville, Louisiana, suggests building into the walls for rooms lacking storage. “Built-ins can be an inexpensive way to add extra storage and a custom look to bedrooms—or any rooms—that are short on space,” she says. “To dress up basic shelving, I like adding pecky cypress backboards to create a one-of-a-kind look.” Photo courtesy Julie D. Philippus

For the (Home) Spa

Whether outfitting a guest bath—or splurging on your master—creating a luxurious, spa-like sanctuary involves more than fancy faucets and fixtures! Enhance your space with a custom vanity that provides aesthetic warmth, as well as plenty of storage. “Vanities serve a utilitarian purpose,” says woodworker Jason Straw of Gainesville, Florida. “But a custom, modern vanity crafted from real wood is similar to art. When relaxing in the tub, you can sit back and enjoy its presence.”

And no worries about crafting cabinetry for wet zones. Straw believes cypress is the best choice. “It’s not only beautiful,” Straw says, “but the cypressene oil found in its heartwood naturally protects it from water damage and mildew.”

For the Finishing Touch

If you work from home or need to put in extra hours, a home office is a must-have—offering a quiet space to stay on task and organized. According to Jane Frederick of Frederick + Frederick Architects in Beaufort, South Carolina—and a past president of the American Institute of Architects—design and comfort are two primary considerations when it comes to picking out a high-quality desk.

“Touching a solid surface speaks to the quality of construction,” Frederick says. “And the finishes make a big difference. I once designed a desk made out of solid, river-recovered cypress, with a live-edge walnut top. In addition to being built to last, it’s stunningly beautiful.”

Whether building a dream home, renovating an existing one, or simply trying to be better organized, look to cypress for creating functional and beautiful storage stunners. Visit www.CypressInfo.org to see how.

(NewsUSA) - Winter holidays are fast approaching, and while you’re busy planning meals, buying gifts and decorating, there’s one more preparation that shouldn’t be overlooked: cleaning your home top to bottom to prepare for the influx of guests. While we tend to focus on the obvious areas – like the kitchen counters and toilets – there are several overlooked spots that are prone to grime, odors and buildup that can make or break your hosting experience.

Luckily, citric acid is here to save the day. Naturally derived, citric acid is a powerhouse cleaner that’s effective and safe when used as instructed, which is why it’s the main grime-fighting ingredient in all of Lemi Shine’s products. It’s also an incredibly versatile cleaner, effective for everything from tough mineral buildup and rust stains to deodorizing your appliances. Unlike harsh chemical cleaners, citric acid is biodegradable and won’t leave behind harmful residues. Here’s how you can use citric acid in five areas you may have missed during your holiday prep.

1. The Garbage Disposal

Hosting a holiday dinner means your garbage disposal will be working overtime with leftovers of all sorts going down the drain. Any food and grime that is left clinging to your disposal can lead to unpleasant odors that linger long after the meal is over.

Citric acid is perfect for eliminating any funky smells in your garbage disposal. It works by breaking down organic matter and dissolving mineral deposits that can cause unwanted buildup. Simply drop Lemi Shine’s Garbage Disposal Cleaner into the drain, let it fizz, and enjoy a fresh, clean sink.

2. The Dishwasher Filter

If your dishwasher filter gets clogged with grease, soap scum, or food particles, your glassware won’t shine like it should, leaving you with dishes that look dull or streaky. No one wants to serve guests with cloudy glasses, especially during the holiday season.

Citric acid is excellent at dissolving mineral deposits and tough buildup that can form in your dishwasher over time. It breaks down hard water stains and limescale, leaving your machine spotless. Using Lemi Shine’s Dishwasher Cleaner ensures that your dishwasher will run smoothly and your dishes will come out sparkling.

3. The Coffee Machine

From morning coffee to evening cocoa, your coffee machine sees a lot of action during the holidays. However, mineral buildup caused by hard water can clog your machine, impacting its performance and negatively affecting the taste of your beverages.

Citric acid easily dissolves mineral deposits, limescale, and rust, ensuring that your machine stays in top shape. Using Lemi Shine’s Coffee Descaler will leave your coffee tasting fresh and smooth, like it should. Plus, it’s safe to use on any type of coffee maker, from drip brewers to single-serve machines, and won’t leave any harmful residues behind. Just make sure to review your machine’s specific instructions prior to use.

4. Bathroom Fixtures

With more guests visiting your home, the bathroom inevitably sees more traffic. Unfortunately, this means water spots, soap scum and rust stains will build up quickly on faucets, mirrors and shower tiles.

You guessed it, citric acid breaks down hard water stains, soap scum and rust. It can easily be applied to faucets, showerheads and mirrors leaving them looking new again without the use of harsh chemicals. Lemi Shine products are septic safe as well, which is key since a backup is the last thing you want when company is visiting.

5. The Washing Machine

'Tis the season for extra laundry – whether it's washing sheets and towels from visiting guests or linens for the dining table working overtime. But if your washing machine hasn’t been cleaned properly, it can develop smells or mildew, leaving your laundry less than fresh.

Citric acid attacks buildup in your washing machine, including soap scum and mineral deposits. By using Lemi Shine’s Washing Machine Cleaner, you can eliminate musty smells and ensure your laundry comes out fresh and clean every time.

This holiday season, go beyond the basics and give your home the deep clean it deserves that’s sure to leave guests impressed. For more tips and tricks, visit LemiShine.com. Happy holidays!

(NewsUSA) - Thermally modified Real American Hardwood^® is a durable, sustainable product gaining traction in U.S. home design. Developed in Finland in the 1990s, the process involves heating wood to over 400°F in a low-oxygen chamber, permanently altering its cellular structure to boost resistance to moisture, decay, and insects—without chemicals. It’s also more dimensionally stable, making it less likely to warp or twist. “Thermally modified hardwood is an eco-friendly alternative to pressure-treated wood,” notes Ian Faight of the American Hardwood Information Center. “For homeowners, this versatile, low-maintenance material is an excellent choice for exterior applications like decking, siding, and outdoor furniture, as well as for interior uses like flooring and cabinetry.” Here are six examples of its remarkable adaptability and great looks.

Pennsylvania poplar siding from Americana^™ Thermally Modified Hardwoods envelops this contemporary residence in Biltmore Forest, North Carolina, by Vellum Architecture and Design. The poplar’s rich tones and clean lines enhance the home’s modern aesthetic, while its durability and stability—achieved through heat treatment—ensure lasting performance against moisture, decay, and warping. Photo courtesy of 161 Photography

VikingWood^™ thermally modified sweet gum flooring enhances the covered porch of this Lake Lanier, Georgia, family home, offering a natural, chemical-free alternative to treated wood. The thermal process adds structural stability and fungal resistance while producing a deep, chocolate hue that helps create a warm, inviting setting for the retreat designed by Jillian Mitchell of Details Design. Photo courtesy of VikingWood, AHC Hardwood Group

An architecturally complicated space, the renovated entertainment area of a Las Vegas, Nevada, residence is given a sense of unity by cladding the ceiling, soffits, and columns with thermally modified Pennsylvania poplar from Americana. The heat-treated hardwood not only enhances the space’s aesthetics with its burnished, natural tones, but also provides improved resistance to warping, decay, and insects—ideal for the desert climate. Photo courtesy of Henri Sagalow Photography

About 4,000 square feet of thermally modified Appalachian ash decking, also from Americana, creates a seamless flow around the pool of a Sonoma County, California, residence. Part of a multilevel wrap-around terrace designed and built by Deck Supply Warehouse, the deck’s heat-treated timber means the space will retain its glamorous looks and structural integrity for many years to come. Photo courtesy of Americana Thermally Modified Hardwoods

Thermally modified hardwood’s resistance to moisture, decay, and warping make it ideal for outdoor furniture, as does another attribute: During the heating process, natural sugars in the wood caramelize, giving the timber a warmer, more pronounced hue—a phenomenon showcased in these classic Adirondack chairs made from VikingWood thermally modified ash, which has acquired a rich, coffee-like hue that accentuates its characterful grain. Photo courtesy of VikingWood, AHC Hardwood Group

By using thermally modified ash from Arbor Wood Co. to clad both the interior ceiling and the exterior roof overhang of this lake house in Riverside, Texas, Collaborative Designworks gives a master class in creating continuous indoor-outdoor living. The treated hardwood not only frames the water views perfectly, it also makes those deep soffits as low-maintenance as they are spectacular. Photo courtesy of Joe Aker/Aker Imaging

Visit www.hardwoodinfo.com for more about using American hardwoods in your home.

(NewsUSA) - Cold weather is coming, and homeowners need to prepare now for potential power outages.

According to NOAA's 2024-2025 Winter Outlook, a slow-developing La Nina is expected to impact winter weather conditions across most of the United States. Much of the Great Lakes and Pacific Northwest is expected to receive above-average precipitation, while the Pacific Northwest through the Great Plains are expected to receive below-average temperatures this winter. Both factors can potentially contribute to power outage events, as high precipitation can damage an aging power infrastructure, and cold weather can create greater demand on the electrical grid.

"Americans experienced an all-time high of 1.2 billion hours without power in the first nine months of the year, and we only expect that to continue to rise through the winter," said Kyle Raabe, president of Consumer Power for Generac. "As low temperatures and harsh conditions strain the country's electrical grids, winter power outage preparation has become more important than ever."

Power outages can be especially dangerous during winter weather and can have far-reaching consequences that affect nearly every aspect of modern living. Without electricity, homes are left without heating, refrigeration, and lighting. Power loss can lead to dangerous living conditions in colder climates, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly or those with young children and even pets. For this reason, it's critical for homeowners to have an emergency plan. 

Below are six essential steps to take when preparing for winter power outages: 

• Identify your nearest warming centers, when they will open and, if applicable, which ones allow pets.
• If you use a fireplace or wood stove for heating, be sure to have your chimney or flue inspected annually ahead of cold weather.
• Build an emergency kit with essential components like food and water, first aid supplies, and any specialty needs for pets and children. 
• Have relevant family and trusted contact information handy in a wallet or purse. Create a communication plan in case of an outage.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms on each level of your home and outside separate sleeping areas. Test alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed.
• Consider investing in a source of backup power, like a portable or home standby generator, to power critical loads during an outage.

In order to make outage preparation easy, Generac has created a Cold Weather Preparedness Guide, which contains an abundance of facts, tips, and checklists to help homeowners understand the potential impacts of winter weather on the power grid and prepare for blackouts. To access the guide and learn more about how to prepare for cold weather power outages, visit https://www.generac.com/prepare/winter-storm-guide.