Category: Current Articles

    Russ and Wendy Fortier are both Francis Marion University graduates and have two sons, Tyler and Davis. They have lived in the Florence area for more than 30 years. Together they own Fresh Coat Florence, SC, which is a national franchise based in Cincinnati, OH. They purchased the franchise and brought it to Florence in December of 2017, then launched their business in April.

    Fresh Coat offers residential and commercial painting services including: interior and exterior painting, light commercial painting (offices, small stores, apartments), wood staining and finishing (deck, fence), popcorn ceiling removal, wallpaper removal, small drywall repair. and more. Russ and Wendy are committed to providing the best customer experience possible and leaving customers with a finished project they will love every day.

    Russ Fortier shares with us his expertise on “painting done right.”

What basic supplies are needed for an indoor and outdoor DIY painting project?

    “The key is to purchase tools and paint that are quality products, not the cheapest you can find.  At a minimum you’ll want:

•  Quality brushes (3 inch is a must, but smaller brushes can also be helpful). Make sure that the brush is designed for the paint you’ll be using.

•  5-gallon bucket with paint screen

•  Cut bucket (small bucket you can hold in your hand for cutting trim)

•  Contractor grade roller handle (cheap rollers flex when applying paint and can leave streaks in your work)

•  Sanding blocks or sandpaper (for prepping your surface and finishing out your application

•  Drop cloths

•  Plastic sheeting (cover your furniture and valuables)

•  Roller handle extensions

•  A four or six-foot step ladder”

What are the different types of sheens and what surfaces are they best for? 

    “There are multiple descriptions in sheens across all paint products. You’ll want to consult with a local paint store representative for advice on sheens to use. Here are some to consider:

•  Flat- for walls and ceilings. Flats hide imperfections better than other sheens.

•  Satin, Matte, Egg-Shell- used commonly on walls. Each has a slightly higher sheen and is a personal choice of the home owner. Check also for durability in each paint sheen/brand. You may want to use something with a high “scrubbability” rating for bathrooms and kitchen walls.

•  Semi-Gloss & Gloss – commonly used for trim, doors, windows and cabinets.”

What steps should we take when searching for exterior paint before jumping in and painting our entire house?

    “If you are doing it yourself, definitely talk with your local paint store. I recommend them over the big box stores. They work with both paint contractors and homeowners and they are experts in their products. They’ll also be able to give you advice on cleaning and preparation for painting, optimal outside temperatures for applications, dry time (keep in mind you are going to be watching the weather on exterior projects), and other items such as the degree of mildew resistance in their product (in the south, mildew resistance is an important factor).”

How can we identify if we have lead paint? What steps do we take with a lead renovation project that would be different from a regular project?

    “If your house was built before 1978, there is a chance you may have lead paint present. The farther back in time your house was built, the more likely it is that you have lead paint. In Florence, we encounter lead paint with most of the houses in the downtown district. Lead paint projects require a contractor who is lead certified. A certified lead contractor can test for lead prior to the beginning of your project. If lead is present, they are required to notify you of the presence of lead and take additional precautions on the project to contain the lead dust and lead paint according to EPA rules. You can test for lead paint yourself with a simple kit available online or in some paint stores. Lead paint renovation projects will cost more, because the contractor must contain the area where any lead paint surface is being disturbed, contain the dust, and perform the appropriate cleaning techniques to ensure that the area is no longer contaminated. There’s also the disposal of the lead paint materials that has to be done as well.”

What qualities make a reliable paint contractor and why is it necessary to have one?

Here are some basic things to ask for:

•  How long has the contractor been in business? How much experience do the painters have?

•  Does the contractor require money upfront? How much?

•  Are consumable supplies and paint included in the price? If not, be prepared to have additional cost added to the project.

•  Is this estimate firm? Meaning, is the price turnkey for the entire project.

•  Is the contractor licensed, bonded and insured? Ask for copies of each of these before accepting any proposal. Check for coverage limits and make sure that the certificate of insurance dates are valid. This is for your protection if something should happen to any painter or your property. If they aren’t insured, your homeowner policy may be required to cover the loss.

•  If your project involves disturbing lead base surfaces, request copies of the Lead Renovator Certificate and the firm’s lead certification

•  Lastly, request references and check them out. Ask questions like: Does the contractor show up when scheduled? Did they complete the project in a reasonable timeframe (or as promised)? Did the crew respect and maintain the homeowner’s property? Were you satisfied with the outcome of the project?

    As autumn approaches with more appealing temperatures, it is a reminder to spruce up our outdoor living spaces for better enjoyment. Plants and lighting can make a major difference in how much time you spend in your yard. Scott Brokaw, owner of Innovative Landscape Design (ILD) in Florence, shares a few tips on how to make our spaces fit our lifestyles, and educates us on planting techniques and maintenance.

    Scott recommends the upcoming fall months as the best time to plant for the best results. “While some plants can tolerate the stress of summer planting, the majority of plants have most of their root development through the fall and winter. The longer they have in the ground to acclimate to their new environment, the better they will do,” explains Scott. Planting in the extreme heat of summer is generally not recommended because it places undue stress upon a plant. “We live in a world where people expect instant gratification, but waiting until fall will give you much better results in the long run.”

    Additionally, amending existing soil with compost prior to planting is very important. “We have seen excellent results when we add two to four inches of compost and till the entire planting area. You can also add compost directly to the planting hole. The plant itself is as important as the soil you place it in.” Scott explains that the number one cause of plant failure is planting too deep. He suggests digging a hole a minimum of twice the width of the root ball, but no deeper, and setting the top of the root ball even with ground level. This will allow better airflow and root growth. “I would rather see two inches of root ball out of the ground than see dirt on top of what came from the nursery. When a plant is at a nursery, it is usually living in optimal conditions. It has food, water, and air. When you take it away from that nursery and put it in the ground, you take at least one of those key elements away. Air. When a plant can’t breathe, it will suffer.” In addition to not adding soil on top of what comes from the nursery, watering the plant well after initial planting is key.

    Lastly, outdoor lighting can make a major difference in the appearance and functionality of outdoor spaces and is one of Scott’s favorite parts of his business. Scott explains, “There is much more to it than just pointing light at a house. Lighting is meant to provide security, safety, and beauty. When done correctly you can achieve all three.” He explains that the type of fixture, lamp selection, and the location are all crucial to good lighting. He also suggests that a professional install it. “Aside from what you see, correct installation will ensure a safe system that will last a long time,” says Scott. “A lot of what you can buy at retailers isn’t meant to last more than a few years at best. We almost exclusively use CAST Landscape Lighting product. CAST Manufactures solid bronze fixtures that carry a Lifetime Warranty. I have systems dating back to 2003 that are operating as well as the day they were installed.”

    ILD has served the Florence area for over 10 years and specializes in landscape design, irrigation, lighting, hardscapes, water features and maintenance. If you want your dream yard or landscape, they can bring it to life! Scott explains that both form and function are qualities that make a great outdoor space. “Just like people, every space is different,” says Scott. “What someone wants out of a space is pivotal in determining exactly what makes a space great.” ILD works with each individual customer to make their vision a reality and strives to provide creative solutions and high-quality professional service. Scott’s fundamentals are simple and have grown the company to what it is today. He believes in hard work, honesty, and doing things for the right reasons.

Scott may be reached at 843.230.1036.

    One of the largest investments we make in our lifetime is our home. At our Agency, we like to help our homebuyers understand the many options available with their homeowner’s policy. Especially this time of year there are hurricanes, hail storms, all sorts of weather that can affect our homes in many ways. In addition, we are outside much more and enjoying outdoor activities. These are some questions that we answer for our clients on a daily basis.

    This time of year, we receive many questions about wind and hail coverage and flood coverage. Many homeowner’s policies have separate wind and hail deductibles. This means that in the event of a wind or hail claim the deductible is higher than it would be for another type of claim. For example, a $200,000 policy with 1% wind hail deductible is a $2,000 deductible in the event of a wind claim, whereas a fire claim would have the lower deductible. This is a way for policy holders to save money on the homeowner premium because they incur a larger out of pocket expense in the event of a wind or hail claim.

    As you make improvements to your home, make a file and save your receipts. The most common upgrades that can impact your insurance premium are your roof, heating and cooling, plumbing upgrades, and electrical upgrades. These improvements can help lower your cost as they mean that you are caring for and maintaining your home. Many times, carriers look for evidence of pride of ownership. A well-maintained home is much easier to cover than one that has been neglected. One thing that clients forget to provide their agent is the proof of upgrade even after a claim. So, for example there is a wind claim and the roof is replaced. The claim is paid and closed. Take the next step and send the receipt to your agent. Then you will be assured that your premium is rating correctly for that improvement.

We always get questions about pools. These are acceptable by most carriers. They do require a four-foot-high fence with a locking gate. This is as much for your protection as the carrier. A pool is attractive in so many ways, but you need to protect yourself against uninvited guests (both the two legged and the four-legged kind). The liability of an unfenced pool is unacceptable for almost all homeowner’s carriers. Accidental drownings peak during summer months and fencing doesn’t protect you from that but it certainly provides more security and peace of mind for you the owner.

    As we get closer to the wonderful fall weather, trees begin to shed and leaves and pine straw collect on our roofs and gutters. The additional weight can contribute to many issues. The weight of leaves and pine straw on your roof increases with each rain storm. As debris collects on the roof and becomes wet, the pine straw and leaves adhere to the roof and can cause possible leaking and damage. Make sure to clean your gutters properly and blow any debris from your roof. This can prevent unnecessary roof damage and keeps your home well maintained.

    As you travel this fall, remember that making your home appear to be occupied is a wonderful deterrent for crime. Have your neighbor collect your mail and newspapers. Set your lights up on a timer. Outside lighting that illuminates your property is a clever upgrade to security. These are some of the items that can help keep you and your home safe this fall.

    

2405 2nd Loop Rd, Florence 843.665.7992

220 W Home Ave, Hartsville  843.332.9802

305 E Broad St, Hemmingway 843.558.7761

505 N Longstreet St, Kingstree 843.355.6673

www.hodgeethridgeagency.com

Homeownership is a big investment, decision, and responsibility.

    The process may appear complex at first, but the more you know about it, the better your experience will be.  A REALTOR® can help guide you throughout the entire process in order to make smart decisions before and after you buy. Palmetto Realty shares with us the value in working with a REALTOR® during your home buying process.

The Importance of Having a REALTOR® in the Home Buying Process

•  REALTORS® are members of the Pee Dee REALTORS® Association, South Carolina REALTORS® Association, and National Association of REALTORS®

•  Adhere to a Strict Code of Ethics, professionalism & honesty

•  Provide professional responsibilities: Accountability, Confidentiality, Disclosure, Loyalty, and Obedience.

•  Knowledgeable and Experienced with the real estate market

•  Provide buyers with a list of bank lenders and mortgage professionals to assist buyers with their pre-approval and mortgage decisions.

•  Discuss with buyers their specific interest and Search the Market for the best properties for the buyer.

•  Show buyers the properties of their interest…Buyers don’t need multiple agents for this, their REALTOR® can show them ALL LISTINGS ON THE MARKET.

•  Prepare Purchase Agreement to safeguard buyers

•  Present and Negotiate all terms on behalf of buyer’s best interest.

•  Order Inspections and negotiate repairs

•  Work with attorney and bank lenders throughout the closing on the buyer’s behalf throughout the home buying process.

•  Attend a walk through with the buyers on the purchasing property and attend closing with buyers

•  As we say at Palmetto Realty “Service Beyond the Sale”, we offer any assistance in any other home-related services after closing is final.

    Be sure to take advantage of the knowledge, experience, and professionalism of a REALTOR®.

125 North 5th Street, Hartsville | scpalmettorealty.com | (843) 917-0274

    From Trunks To Trays LLC is a family owned business that sells handmade, hand chiseled wooden bowls and trays. Cindy Lawrimore, part owner along with her husband Carroll, completes the finishing work on the products. Carroll is the designer and carver. The two have been married for 39 years and share a love for family and family history. Original dough or bread bowls were a crucial part of family food preparation and it was a common practice for a future husband to carve a wooden dough bowl for his bride as a wedding gift. Today Cindy and Carroll have been able to carry on history by creating beautiful, individually-unique bowls and trays for a variety of modern day purposes.

     The idea for the business sparked after they received a family dough bowl that was passed down from three generations. The old bowl had a hole in it and Carroll wanted to find someone to help him fix it. After Carroll began researching the history of the bowls, he set out to find a teacher and mentor when he discovered Mr. Buddy Davis of Stuckey, SC. “Mr. Buddy” has been creating bowls for over 25 years and is still active in the trade. Mr. Buddy explained that Carroll wouldn’t be able to fix that bowl, but he could teach him how to build a new one. Carroll spent much time with Mr. Buddy learning the basics and absorbing as much information as possible. Mr. Buddy helped Carroll carve his first bowl/tray in August of 2015.   

    While the bowls and trays are still used for dough making, the variety of shapes and sizes that From Trunks To Trays creates makes them a popular option for serving BBQ, ribs, low country boils, salads, and hors d’oeurves. Additionally, many people simply enjoy the pieces as home décor. They also make wood serving charcuterie trays for meats, cheeses, and fruits.

    The pieces are made from a variety of wood such as tupelo, ash, elm, black walnut, cherry, chinaberry, maple, pecan, poplar, and sycamore. Because they are hand-carved and not turned on a lathe, no two pieces look alike. “We love the natural flaws and imperfections,” says Carroll. “It really is the wood that makes the piece. It’s all about the wood.” The majority of the wood is from trees that are damaged from natural disaster, with most being from the Hemingway area. For certain pieces they either saw entire trees or they just use remnants of tree trunks. The trees are usually sawed right on their property using a portable saw mill. Once the wood cures, they use a variety of saws to remove bark and unwanted excess. Carroll then lets the pieces help him decide what shape they will take on. A pattern is hand-drawn on the wood, the wood is scored and hand-chiseled for removal of the center part of the piece, then Carroll passes the pieces off to Cindy for several rounds of additional sanding.  The final sanding and oiling are done by hand with multiple applications of food-safe mineral oil to cure the wood. A top coat of Bees Oil (a mixture of bees wax and mineral oil) is added to give the pieces a more durable, water-resistant finish. “We choose mineral oil maintenance as it is easy and inexpensive for our customers to use as they maintain their pieces,” explains Cindy. “We also use this finish to maintain the natural beauty of the wood. All of our products are food safe.”

    Learning a new skill takes time, patience and a lot of practice. Carroll says he has yet to “master” the skill and continues to learn something new each day. He shares, “Some pieces turn out exactly like you envision them and others make it to the scrap pile. It’s hard to predict what the final product will look like as the individual characteristics of the wood can’t be anticipated. This is what we love about the process.” Areas in the wood that may seem like a flaw or blemish actually give a piece the most beautiful character. Learning the finishing skill came from hours of reading, research, and a lot of trial and error. “If you want to learn this wonderful craft, find a good teacher and mentor,” suggests Carroll. “Be patient, as finding the right wood can be time-consuming. Also, waiting for your perfect piece of wood to cure takes months-often a couple of years.”