Color and Trends 2018 Digitsl_Design_Color_Trends | Page 28

UPDATE YOUR EXTERIOR WITH THESE TRENDY LOOKS FOR 2019! If you've never wintered a pond before, here are a few things you should know: FISH You will need to use your kh test equipment to make sure the water is not acidic and add calcium carbonate to buffer your water for the rainy season. When the water temperature drops below 10 degrees, stop feeding your fish. Fish enter hibernation at this time and cannot digest food. The uneaten food will simply dirty the water. MATTE BLACK FINISHES Matte black is the hottest new finish in décor with everything from faucets to door hardware coming out in this trendy finish. If you're looking to give your exterior a contemporary look that is both trendy and timeless, matte black is a great choice for light fixtures, window and door frames and other accent pieces on the exterior of your home. PLANTS Plants also go dormant in winter so you want to cut them back to the water line and check to ensure the clay in your plant pots is full so the roots are protected. The use of plant food pond tabs is essential as well. EQUIPMENT If possible, you want to keep your pump running over the winter months to keep the water moving. Before the cold sets in, ensure your filter is clean and then cover it with some insulation and a tarp to prevent it from freezing. If you have UV lighting, remove and store inside for the winter season. Each pond is unique. If you're not sure what is best for your pond, a local pond expert can help you with a custom plan that is best for your specific pond's needs! - Jordan Ninkovich and Robert Anderson, Fraser Valley Ponds/Cambie Water Gardens If you're hoping to renovate in 2019, now is time to ensure you have a solid plan in place! Union Lighting and Furnishings, www.unionlf.com NATURAL MATERIALS The natural look is popular for exteriors right now with stone veneers, natural wood accents and well planned landscaping working together to create a cohesive look. Traditional brick is also making a comeback, providing a more industrial look when paired with modern accents and matte black finishes. SET A BUDGET Determine a reasonable budget for your project that takes into consideration available funds, financing options and the expected cost of your project. SECURE A CONTRACTOR A reputable, experienced contractor or renovator is an important aspect of any renovation. Waiting until the last minute may leave you with less options. Research contractors now and secure your contractor early to ensure your project starts and finishes on time. PERMITS In some areas, acquiring permits can take 6 months or longer! Begin the permit process early to avoid delays. SECURE FINANCING Ensure proper financing is in place before you begin. A home equity loan is a popular choice for funding home upgrades and renovations. With Tribecca, you can obtain a home equity loan in a matter of days but beginning this process early will allow you to set a proper budget and ensure you know all of your options. - Amit Anand, www.tribecca.ca Stone Selex, www.stoneselex.com