Not all homeowners insurance policies are created equal. When it comes time to file a claim, many Maui homeowners find that their policy covers only certain types of damage. As a homeowner, you should thoroughly read your policy before you need it. Review your declarations page in order to fully understand what your policy covers and what your deductible will be for various types of losses.

When an unfortunate event happens, you’ll likely file a claim with your insurance company. But your life will be even more stressful if you make a mistake filing the claim or aren’t familiar with what your policy covers. Here are some insurance claims do’s and don’ts for Maui homeowners.

Do: Keep Good Records

There’s no such thing as overdocumenting when it comes to claims. Your smartphone can be a handy tool to document each and every detail. It’s also a good idea to get organized and create a separate folder to keep all your documented items together. Document all related expenses, save all receipts related to temporary repairs, alternative living expenses, contractors, plumbers, electricians, etc.

Don’t: Procrastinate

When an incident causing damage happens, you should report it immediately. Most insurance policies don’t put a time limit on how long you have to file a claim. A good rule of thumb is to file within one year of the incident. Some policies even state the homeowner may be held responsible for subsequent damages due to delayed reporting or failure to make reasonable temporary repairs to prevent further damage.

Do: Enlist Professionals

When damage happens, there’s so much to do and take care of. But don’t go at it alone. Claims representatives can help walk you through the process. The insurance adjuster, mitigation contractor, insurance experts, and building inspectors should all be able to get in contact with you.

The claims process can be long and stressful, so you should prepare a list of questions to ask claims professionals. For example: “Does my home insurance cover temporary living expenses?” Or, “When will an adjuster come to my house?”

Don’t: Pay For Incomplete Work

Your insurance company will be paying for some, or all, of the repairs. Yes, the money won’t be coming out of your pocket, but that doesn’t mean the insurance company should pay for a job half-done. Be careful not to pay in full or sign on the dotted line before work is actually done to your home. Make sure there is a plan for the work being done, and get all the details in writing.

Autumn is hardly the time for Maui homeowners to ignore their lawns and landscapes. In fact, what they do now will determine the quality of their family yard next spring and summer. During the pandemic, homeowners have been rediscovering the importance of connecting to the outdoors. That has translated into record sales in yard and garden equipment and supplies.

Here are a few simple tips to ensure your yard is ready for next spring:

Keep mowing

Continue to cut the grass until the first hard frost. Find the just-right length for the grass species—typically 2 to 3 inches—to keep it healthy as the weather turns cold.

Prepare outdoor power equipment

Clean and inspect the mower, trimmer, leaf blower, pruner, and hedger. Make sure accessories used in the fall, such as aerators and mulching attachments, are in good shape as well. Take any equipment that needs it to an authorized service representative. When it’s time to store the mower for winter, be sure to empty the fuel tank; fuel left in the mower can thicken and damage the equipment.

Aerate the lawn

Aeration prevents soil from becoming compacted and covered with thatch—a thick layer of roots, stems, and debris that blocks water, oxygen, and nutrients from reaching the soil.

Mulch leaves

Put down that rake. Mulching leaves and leaving them on the grass rather than raking and bagging them is good for the lawn and the environment. As shredded leaves decompose, they feed the yard naturally. Now is the time to shop for a mulching attachment or a mulching mower.

Trim up trees and bushes

Fall is the right time to look for and trim low-hanging branches that might break in the winter and cause damage. Call a tree service if needed.

Paint company Sherwin-Williams announced its 2021 color of the year: “urbane bronze.” The hue is said to instill calmness and has ties to nature, Sherwin-Williams says.

“The home is now the ultimate retreat from the world, and color is an easy and effective way to create a personal haven,” says Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams. “Urbane bronze encourages you to create a sanctuary space for mindful reflection and renewal.”

The color trends of 2020 ushered in a return to bolder hues, moving away from the popularity of cooler neutrals that dominated most of the 2010s. Now, Sherwin-Williams describes the 2021 choice as “bold and understated at the same time.”

“Urbane bronze is a comforting color, drawing from nature for a feeling of relaxation and serenity,” Wadden says. “There’s also reassurance in its sentimentality, with nostalgic ties to the design of the ’70s and ’90s, but with gray undertones that give it a distinctly modern twist.”

Urbane bronze can work inside or out in a home, used as a primary or accent color in bedrooms, living rooms, dens, or home offices, Sherwin-Williams says. Wadden also points out it can be used to accentuate window trim, columns, and accent walls in commercial or residential spaces.

“Complement the simplicity of urbane bronze with natural materials—like wood finishes, organic stone accents, or woven textiles—and a variety of mixed metals to create a serene space grounded in nature,” Wadden says.

The 2021 selection, Urbane Bronze SW 7048, is the 11th official Color of the Year. The list of previously selected colors includes:

• 2011: Indigo Batik SW 7602
• 2012: Argyle SW 6747
• 2013: Aloe SW 6464
• 2014: Exclusive Plum SW 6263
• 2015: Coral Reef SW 6606
• 2016: Alabaster SW 7008
• 2017: Poised Taupe SW 6039
• 2018: Oceanside SW 6496
• 2019: Cavern Clay SW 7701
• 2020: Naval SW 6244

Source: Sherwin Williams

The summer heat is slowly dissipating, and now it’s time to start prepping your air conditioner for the cooler fall temperatures. Depending on where you live in the U.S., you might not expect to use your AC unit much this fall, and you might not use it at all during the winter. Take some time to get ready to shut it down for the season while ensuring the unit is in good condition for next year.

Check Performance

Turn on your AC specifically to study how it performs. How long does it take to reach the temperature you’ve set on the thermostat? Is the air adequately cool? Does the unit make funny noises or emit strange sounds? Take note of anything out of the ordinary that needs attention before you turn it off for good this fall. It’s better to address issues now when repair or replacement costs will be lower than when business picks up again next spring.

Monitor Thermostat

As you check your AC unit, keep an eye on the thermostat to see if the temperature stays where you want it to. If the room temperature vacillates or if the unit seems to run for several minutes before cooling the air to the specified temperature, you may have a problem. A thermostat that does not register the actual temperature or maintain the programmed temperature should be checked by a technician.

Schedule Maintenance

An annual inspection and assessment of your AC equipment is a good idea even when everything seems to be working fine. You may have gotten used to a small motor whine or a faint burning smell; this usually suggests that the unit is working extra hard to do its job. A yearly check can reassure you that all is well and ready for the next warm season. Small problems can be diagnosed with recommendations by the expert.

Perform Repairs

If a problem is detected during the inspection, have the AC repair work done promptly. Waiting for warm weather to roll around again could allow the problem to get worse and, as mentioned, service and equipment prices could go up in price. Having the work done now means that your air conditioning will be ready for you to enjoy on the first hot day next year.

Article from: Anita Ginsburg

It’s hard work becoming a homeowner. After you move into your new Maui house, realize that the work may not be completely finished yet. Here are a few things you should take a look at right away in order to maintain your new home.

Gutters

Your gutters are an important part of your home. They’re designed to prevent water from damaging the foundation of your home by redirecting the flow away from the base. They’ll also prevent ice dams from forming on your roof by creating a path for the water to flow off of your roof. You should inspect your gutters and clean them if necessary, as gutters can become easily clogged with leaves and branches – and even sustain damage over time if not taken care of.

Air Conditioner

Unless the air conditioner is brand new, you should ensure that it gets maintenance. You’ll need to have the filter changed, since it’s responsible for removing dirt, dust and allergens from the air. A dirty filter will cause your HVAC system to work harder, as well as produce poor air quality. You may also need to have your HVAC system inspected and serviced by a professional. Air conditioner maintenance will help you save money because the unit will use less energy and last a lot longer.

Water Heater

Your water heater likely needs to be drained if it’s been used before. Sediment has a tendency to build up in water heaters over time, and few sellers have this taken care of before they sell their home. If the sediment hardens, your water heater will become less efficient. Draining the water heater will help get rid of the sediment and ensure your heater works normally long after you move into your new home.

Plumbing

Inspecting the pipes in a property you’ve just moved into is crucial. Look under your sinks to make sure the pipes aren’t leaking. Additionally, you’ll need to check your faucets for drips. If you notice any problems, call a plumber who can ensure that your sinks, toilets and pipes are in good working condition. Plumbing maintenance can help you save a lot of time and money further down the road.

Behr Paint Co. unveiled 21 versatile colors on Monday to make up its Color Trends 2021 Palette. The colors include neutrals mixed with some lavish bolds to create “energizing, yet comforting” focal points in a home, Behr says.

“This has been a year of unpredictability and 2020 has significantly changed our relationship with home,” says Erika Woelfel, vice president of color at Behr. “When our color team began exploring a palette for the coming year, we knew it needed to be grounded in what we’ve been craving: comfort and personalization. A new, ‘elevated’ articulation of ‘comfort’ goes beyond traditional beige, gray, and green hues and embraces color in a way that can redefine and enhance any type of space inside or outside the home.”

Behr says color will play an increasing role in setting a mood for a space, creating a positive atmosphere, and providing a sense of well-being that ensures living and workspaces feel “pleasant, light, and productive.”

The 2021 Behr color palette is organized into six color themes: casual comfort, subtle focus, optimistic view, quiet haven, calm zone, and outdoor escape.

Here’s a breakdown of each theme, according to Behr:

• Casual comfort: Light and cozy neutrals that strive to offer an updated take on the casual farmhouse look (warm-toned hues like Almond Wisp and Sierra).

• Optimistic view: An eclectic mix of bright hues that allude to a Mediterranean or ’70s “glam” vibe (Saffron Strands or Kalahari Sunset).

• Subtle focus: Soft pastels that are inspired by modern versions of art deco design (Seaside Villa and Wishful Green).

• Calm zone: Nurturing blues and greens continue to trend in creating calm, restorative spaces (Jojoba and Voyage).

• Quiet haven: Darker, evocative colors are presented as fit for traditional and maximalist decor (Royal Orchard and Broadway).

• Outdoor escape: Behr says that any of its 2021 color picks also can be used for exterior spaces and in expanding a home’s livable space outside too (Barnwood Gray or Cellini Gold).

Source: Behr

Many Americans turned their attention to their homes during the pandemic. Home improvement big-box retailers reported a swarm of traffic as homeowners looked to spruce up their nests while sheltering in.

What were homeowners working on?

Outdoor spaces were fueling much of the demand, according to Houzz, an online home remodeling platform. For example, new decks or patios, pools, and fences have gotten a lot of attention.

Homeowner Justin Sullivan shared with CNBC his feelings about his pool, home gym, and sauna projects. “When you’re not able to go out, your house is an enjoyable space where you can live bunker-style and still be active, still feel comfortable, and still enjoy,” Sullivan says. “The kids will have spaces to make sure they can work from home, and when it gets really hot in the summertime, they’ll have a place where they can cool off.”

Houzz reports a 58% annual increase in project leads for home professionals in June as homeowners looked to update their spaces. Searches for pool and spa professionals tripled this summer compared to a year ago, Houzz reports. Deck and patio professionals saw more than double the demand.

Also, demand for interest in fence installation and repairs jumped 166%, Houzz notes.

The desire for more space has been common for homeowners during the pandemic. That may explain why Houzz has seen a 52% increase in professionals being called in for home extensions and additions.

Kitchen and bath remodels also have been popular, seeing a 40% jump in demand in June compared to a year ago, Houzz reports.

Homeowners have seen record high amounts of home equity during the pandemic, which may be one motivating factor to tackle more house projects. More than 15 million residential properties—or 27.5% of all mortgaged homes–were considered equity-rich in the second quarter, according to ATTOM Data Solutions. (That means the mortgages on those properties is 50% or less than the value of the home.)

Homeowners don’t appear to be done sprucing up their nests. More than three-quarters of homeowners recently surveyed say they plan to tackle a new house project over the next 12 months, according to Porch.com, a home remodeling website. Their top motivators were “finally having time,” “adding value to the home,” and a desire to make their home “feel more cozy.”

Source: “Pandemic Home Remodeling Is Booming: Here’s What Your Neighbors Are Doing,” CNBC (Aug. 7, 2020)

You finally have the time to work on home improvement projects, but you don’t want to stretch the budget. The good news is you can make a big difference and enhance your Maui home with these easy DIY projects.

Change Out Lighting

Replace those dated ceiling lights with modern fixtures. Make sure you choose lighting that can handle the space and light requirements, and stay within the wattage guidelines when you install bulbs. And whenever you work on electrical projects, turn off the power before starting.

Redo Bathroom Caulking

Bathroom caulk can attract mold and will yellow with age. Cracked caulk lines will allow water to soak behind walls and floors, causing more grief in the future. Remove the old caulk with a putty knife or similar tool, and clean the area with a bleach and water solution before replacing it with a clean new bead of silicone caulk.

Upgrade The Thermostat

Energy Star reports that homeowners can save up to 8% of their heating and cooling bills by switching to a smart thermostat. Programmable thermostats are available for less than $30, so it’s a win on the savings front.

Change Door Hardware

Changing the interior and exterior doorknobs to matching finishes and styles can make a bigger difference than you might think. Plus, you’ll add a level of security by replacing loose keyed knobs and adding deadbolts to the exterior doors.

Replace Cabinet Pulls

Replace those old cabinet knobs or pulls with classic choices to immediately update the kitchen. Measure the “spread” between the two screws on your existing hardware, or take one with you to compare to new ones. Make sure the attached screws are the same length as the old ones or buy proper lengths of screws for your cabinets.

Drain Your Water Heater

No one will notice this project, but it will save you money and help you avoid plumbing problems. Drain a few gallons of water from your water heater two or three times per year to clear sediment at the bottom of the tank. This keeps the buildup to a minimum and allows the heater to work efficiently and last longer. Turn the gas and pilot light off or unplug the unit before starting and check the heater for leaks, which could cause headaches down the road.

Many associate cleaning with springtime, but summer cleaning tasks are just as important. With warmer temperatures and longer days ahead, there’s no better time to open the windows, throw on a pair of gloves, and get to work. Cleaning your Maui home is important, but don’t forget to take care of heavy-duty home maintenance tasks as well. As you cross items off your summer maintenance checklist this year, be sure to add these tasks as well.

Examine Your Home’s Exterior

Power washing is a relatively easy and inexpensive way to give the exterior of your home a quick refresh. Blast off any residual grime that may have built up during those spring showers. However, be sure to do this before the very hot months make extraneous water use irresponsible. Keep an eye out for any chips or cracks in the exterior paint—exposed wood and siding can be subject to rot, so protect areas with a fresh coat of paint, if needed.

Rain and snow can lead to branches, leaves and other debris clogging foundation vents, gutters and downspouts. Clogs and leaks in your gutter system can lead to expensive damage to the roof or even the interior of your home. Check your gutters and downspouts for any accumulated gunk that might cause an issue—you’ll want to make sure they’re prepared to drain properly for those spring showers. If you do come across a clog in your gutters, try removing the debris or using a garden hose to force out any built-up material. If the debris proves to be too difficult to remove on your own, consider hiring a professional.

Spruce Up Your Outdoor Areas

Spring isn’t the only season known for its beautiful blooms, so tackle those annual landscaping tasks to boost your curb appeal. Summer landscaping can include planting drought-resistant plants, covering gardens with mulch to protect roots from the hot sun and picking out summer-ready flowers like sunflowers and lavender. Make sure branches and shrubs are trimmed away from your roofing and siding to prevent moisture damage and provide pest control.

Mowing and weeding your grass now will help you stay on top of any sudden growth that takes place when the weather warms up. Planting annual perennials, which love the summer heat, is a low maintenance way to give a dash of color to your yard and increase your property’s curb appeal as you begin to enjoy the outdoors more and more.

Have Your HVAC Inspected

Your Maui home’s heating and cooling system should be inspected, serviced and cleaned at least once a year, and it makes sense to do so when the temperatures will be changing drastically. Your heating system likely worked hard all winter, and as you switch to your cooling system, regular maintenance can extend the life of your furnace and postpone expensive replacements.

Change the air filters regularly to prevent major HVAC issues. If your home has foundation vents, be sure to clean them by hand or with a shop vacuum. Foundation vents usually have screens that become a catch-all for leaves, twigs and assorted debris.

Article provided by Brentnie Daggett

Even though the country is reopening, we’ve all had plenty of time to stare at the walls in every room in the house. For families desperate to create a new gathering spot that they’re not sick of being in, the basement offers plenty of potential. Here are a few projects to transform your Maui basement into a light-filled, inviting space for relaxation and fun.

HVAC Upgrade

If your family complains about hanging out in the basement because it’s too chilly, too damp, or just plain not cozy enough, this might be the perfect time to upgrade your heating, cooling, and ventilation (HVAC) system. Boosting the air efficiency in your home makes an immediate difference and your basement should feel just as comfortable as the rest of your Maui house. Check into multizone HVAC equipment and creating a separate zone for the basement that can be controlled by its own smart thermostat.

Lighten Things Up

Think of the word “basement” and the first thing that probably comes to mind is … dark. Luckily, this is one of the quickest and least expensive things to fix. Roll on a coat of fresh paint for instant impact. Wood paneling all but disappears under white or light-colored paint, making the room appear much larger. Many basements make do with lamps, but it’s worth paying more to illuminate your space properly. Use recessed lighting, it’s stylish, and it doesn’t take up precious space in the ceiling.

Create a game room

If you already have a separate room in your basement that can’t become a legal bedroom, that could make a pretty awesome gaming room your kids will thank you for. Paint this room dark and dramatic, throw in a few oversized bean bag chairs, and your kids may have a new favorite spot in your home. This setup is also perfect for watching movies, or for a man cave, where you don’t need much light.

Repurpose Your Wet Bar

If you’re lucky enough to have a finished basement that just needs a modern face-lift, there are affordable ways to do it. For example, remember when many basements featured a massive bar as a focal point? You can incorporate this into your remodel. Bars generally have pre-existing plumbing in them that can be re-routed. Add a new granite counter with seating, and then put in a kitchenette by adding a cooktop, a small refrigerator, and a sink. Having a kitchenette in the basement works especially well if you also have a bedroom and bathroom downstairs, as it makes the perfect guest suite.