CVRN111026_consumer how to

A Special Supplement to the COMOX VALLEY RECORD ❯❯ FALL 2011

inside

how to

How to buy a water effi cient toilet 2 How to choose window coverings 4Prepare for autumn/winter driving conditions 6How to shop for new appliances 8How to choose a college 10How to purchase a new vehicle 12What to consider when purchasing

a pre-owned vehicle 14How to choose a carpet cleaner 16How to choose tires 18How to invest with a clear conscience 20How to choose hardwood fl ooring 22

mA Special Supplem

Consumer

COMOXVALLEYRECORD.comC O V E R T O C O V E R O N - L I N EC O V E R T O C O V E R O N - L I N E

PAPER

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Consumer Guide ❯❯

1. Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth

2. Repair dripping taps

3. Only using a full load when turning on your dishwasher or washing machine

4. Washing fruits and vegetables in a bowl rather than under a running tap

5. Reducing your shower time and having less baths

How to buy aWater Eff icient Toilet

Most toilets work by means of gravity. Water is stored in a tank at a higher level than the water in the bowl. Once fl ushed, the water moves from the tank to the bowl and pulled from the bowl to the drain. An-other style of toilet works on a pressure system. The water in the tank and in the bowl is kept at the same pressure. When fl ushed, the pressure from the fl ush forces power through the bowl.

Before going to the store you should do a rough measurement of your toilet space. This will ensure that your new toilet will fi t properly. There are also personal preferences to consider: 1. Single or double piece: One piece toilets, where the tank and

bowl come as one unit, can be easier to clean and may have less opportunity to leak, however they can be more expen-sive and heavier and harder to install than the two piece system.

2. Bowl height: There are two options, regular or comfort

height. Comfort height bowls are higher and some people fi nd them more com-fortable. They are also useful for people with back or knee injuries or for other disabilities.

3. Bowl Shape: There are two styles, elongated or round.

This is a matter of personal preference, however some elongated toilets may not fi t in the space you have allowed for your toilet.

4. Lined or unlined: Some toilets come insulated or “lined”.

This prevents condensation that can form outside the tank. A lined tank is necessary if you have a hot or humid environment or your water supply to your toilet is cold. You many not require a lined toilet if your house is air condi-tioned or the house environment is dry and not humid.

About 30% of all the water used in the household is fl ushed down the toilet, therefore it makes sense to install a water effi cient model.

There are some concerns that water ef-fi cient toilets do not provide enough water and pressure to transport waste effi ciently. Extensive testing has proven that water ef-fi cient toilets provide more than enough water. If your toilet is constantly getting plugged it is more likely that your drain-pipes are blocked or not functioning prop-erly.

The Comox Valley Regional District off ers a toilet rebate program. Their aim is to as-sist residents to use water more effi ciently

in order to reduce water consumption anddemand. By replacing your old toilet with a13 litre dual fl ush or a high effi ciency toiletyou can reduce water usage by 18 percent.A limited amount of rebates will be avail-able for the 2011 program. Applicationsand detailed information can be found atwww.comoxvalleyrd.ca/rebates or by call-ing 250-334-6000.

Dual fl ush toilets is another option, how-ever there are single fl ush toilets that useonly 4.8 litres of water that is comparableto the saving of a dual fl ush system.

Your decision in choosing the right toiletcan save you money and protect the envi-ronment.

“When the well’s dry, we know the worth of water. ”

Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790), Poor Richard’s Almanac, 1746

Available at:Available at:

780 30th Street,Courtenay250-334-3353A division of Andrew Sheret Ltd.

610 Anderton Avenue,Courtenay250-334-4416

Central Builders’

2 Wednesday, October 26, 2011 • COMOX VALLEY RECORD www.comoxvalleyrecord.com

Follow comoxvalleyrd

The CVRD toilet rebate program will help residents to use water more efficiently. Replacing a 13 litre toilet with a dual flush or high-efficiency (4.8 litre or less) toilet could reduce indoor use by approximately 18 percent. Homes with older 20 litre flush toilets could experience even larger reductions.

Only high efficiency (4.8 litre or less) and dual flush toilets are eligible. A maximum of two toilet rebates per installation address, including those toilet rebates received under the 2009 and 2010 programs, will be accepted.

Old toilets must be taken to the Comox Valley Waste Management Centre (2400 Pidgeon Lake Road, Cumberland) for proper disposal and a date stamped receipt. Rebates are only available to registered owners of properties connected to the Comox Valley water system and Black Creek - Oyster Bay local water service area. A limited number of rebates are available for the program. To download the 2011 eligibility requirements and the rebate form visit www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/rebates or call 250-334-6000.

REPLACE YOUR WATER-GUZZLING TOILET (13 LITRE OR MORE) WITH A NEW WATER-EFFICIENT MODEL AND RECEIVE A $75 REBATE FROM THE COMOX VALLEY REGIONAL DISTRICT (CVRD).

www.comoxvalleyrecord.com COMOX VALLEY RECORD • Wednesday, October 26, 2011 3

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1. Certain window treatments will actas insulation.

2. When selecting window treatments, check the R value. R value measures the ability to resist heat fl ow, so, the higher the R value, the better insulating eff ect a window treatment has.

3. Solar heat gainwarms your home during summer months.A product’s Solar Heat Gain Coeffi cient measures it’s ability to keep the heat out.

4. Window treatments will prevent sun damage from UV exposure.

5. Properly selected window treatments will help you save energy by preventing excess heating and cooling all year long.

We have fair everyday pricing and quality and service worth remembering!Tracey McGinnis

Blinds, Billiards and Baubles

How to choosewindow coverings

Saving Your Hard-Earned Energy DollarsRising energy costs are aff ecting every-

one’s pocketbook. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, sunny windows make air conditioners work two to three times harder. In colder seasons, heat lost through windows can account for 10 to 25% of your heating bill.

Liza Bowles, President of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Re-search Center, stresses the importance of window coverings. “Especially with the larger windows so prevalent today, shades and blinds are necessary to add energy ef-fi ciency to a home,” said Bowles. “And, dur-ing the summer months, keep them fully closed on south and west-facing windows to prevent heat gain.”

When it comes to energy-effi cient win-dow fashions, Hunter Douglas has the an-swer. In fact, in 1985 the company created the fi rst highly energy-effi cient window coverings — soft, durable Duette® honey-comb shades. Since then, the product has spurred an entirely new category of win-dow coverings and the many fabric, color, style and hardware options available in Duette Honeycomb Shades just keeps ex-panding.

Wendell Colson, Hunter Douglas Vice President of Product Development, fi rst developed the concept for Duette Honey-comb Shades during the energy crisis of the late 70s as a young architect and inven-tor in Massachusetts renovating big, drafty Victorians. “One night as I was shivering in bed, a double curtain came together in a regular folding pattern, capturing air between those folds in a honeycomb-like confi guration,” said Colson. “I saw this ver-tically, but I thought if we put it together horizontally you would have a highly ener-gy-effi cient treatment because air would literally be trapped in the honeycomb cells.” Today, Duette Honeycomb Shades are even available in triple layers of hon-eycombs. These Duette triple honeycomb shades are the most energy-effi cient hon-eycomb product on the market today.Keep Cool in Summer

Summer shading coeffi cients measure a window treatment’s ability to protect against solar heat passing through the window into the home. During the hottest months of the year, it has been estimated that 53% of all heat entering a home comes in through the windows. A window treat-ment with a low summer shading coeffi -cient is most eff ective in shading against heat gain, refl ecting heat and shading the interior. The percentage of heat reduction

is calculated, subtracted from 100, and turned into a decimal. For example, if a window treatment reduces heat gain by 80 to 95%, this translates into a shading coeffi cient of .20 to .05. Duette triple hon-eycomb shades boast a low .24 shading coeffi cient and Duette Honeycomb Shades in an opaque fabric with a metallized core have a coeffi cient of .23.

Where direct sunlight is a problem, the best materials will be metallized or white backings that can refl ect the greatest amount of sunshine, while still shading the interior. Known for their myriad fabrics and textures, some Brilliance® Pleated Shades also can be highly energy-effi cient window treatments because they off er a thin layer of aluminum permanently bonded to the rear of the face fabric. Many Hunter Doug-las products, including Duette Honeycomb Shades and soft, billowy Vignette® Modern Roman Shades, have neutral white energy-effi cient fabric backings.Warming Up for Winter

“Forty percent of the heat in a home es-capes through the windows on average, and windows are typically 20 percent of wall space,” said Colson. “So energy dol-lars are literally pouring out the window.” Window coverings with a high R-value can provide much needed insulation and sig-nifi cantly reduce heat loss. The “R-value” (resistance value) measures a product’s resistance to heat loss when in a closed (lowered) position. The higher the R-value,

the more insulation a window product pro-vides. A single layer of uncovered windowglass has a winter R-value of about 0.88,while a double-glazed window has a valueof about 1.75. By selecting an energy-effi -cient window treatment, you can help in-crease the R-value one to fi ve points.

Wood and vinyl are insulating materialsand fabric shades with metallized or room-darkening linings are also good insula-tors. But, again, honeycomb fabric shades,which “trap” air in the honeycomb cells,provide the best insulation. Super energy-effi cient Duette triple-honeycomb shadesaff ord a winter R-value of 4.8 on double-glazed windows.There’s More to the Story

In addition to saving hard-earned energy dollars, Hunter Douglas window coveringscan also save on having to replace fabrics,carpets and other fi ne furnishings and pre-serve precious heirlooms for posterity. Ul-traviolet light is often called “the invisibleenemy” as it is the invisible component ofthe sun’s radiation and can be extremelydamaging. Ultraviolet literally means “be-yond the violet” in the visible spectrumof light. It enters the house as sunlightbut will eventually fade fl oors, furniture,upholstery and drapery fabrics, carpetingand valuable artwork. With prolonged sunexposure, natural, undyed fabrics typicallybecome yellowed. Later, fi bers will weaken,making furnishings look old and worn be-fore their time.


Only At Your Hunter DouglasGallery

Save Time. Save Money.For the best choice in quality, style, value and exceptional service, you’ll fi nd it allat a Hunter Douglas Gallery.

Visit us today and let our highly-trained professionals help you fi nd the right lookfor your home at the very best price.

We also offer:■ 20/20 Gallery Gold Guarantee ■ Exclusive Alustra™ Collection Dealer ■Duette® Honeycomb Shades ■ Luminette® Privacy Sheers ■ Silhouette®Window Shadings ■ Vignette® Tailored Window Shadings

© Copyright 2006 Hunter Douglas Inc., ® Registered Trademark of Hunter Douglas Inc., TM Trademark of Hunter Douglas 4756

SALES, REPAIRS & CLEANING

221C Church St.,

Comox, BC

250-941-7824blindsbilliardsandbaubles.com


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1. Warming up a vehicle in an enclosed area is dangerous. Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless gas that builds up and can kill humans and animals quickly and silently

2. If you have a vehicle with 4WD or AWD drive, don’t get overconfi dent and rely on its abilites to get you out of a problem. While the traction and force created by all four wheels driving instead of two helps you get going from a stop, it does not assist your vehicle’s braking ability.

3. Cruise-control should never be used in wet or frosty driving conditions.

4. In winter, bridges and overpasses freeze fi rst.

5. Using your wipers to clear built-up snow and ice from your windshield causes excessive strain on the wiper motor and wiper blades.

It is time once again to prepare for the inevitable. The rains of Autumn and snow and ice of Winter will soon be upon us. Time to shake the moths from the sweaters and store away the patio furniture. Winter weather is hard on your vehicle and its engine, make sure that your vehicle is up to the challenges that wet/cold weather driving conditions can and will present. A full inspection of your vehicle will de-termine if your windshield wipers/washer system, exterior and interior lights, an-ti-freeze and cooling system, brakes, front steering and suspension components, tires, etc are all in good condition and functioning correctly.

Making the time to have your vehicle inspected on a regular basis may seem time consuming but when planned and scheduled it proves to be much less in-convenient than a roadside breakdown. and is a small step that will allow you to be confi dent regarding the safety and reliability of your vehicle for you and your passengers.

Batteries have a harder time starting your vehicle in cold weather. The chemical reactions inside of batteries take place more slowly when the battery is cold, so the battery produces fewer electrons. The result is your starter motor has less energy to work with when it tries to start the engine and causes the engine to crank slowly

Lubrication is one of the most important things when driving in winter. Oil gets a lot thicker in cold weather. When you try to start a cold engine, the engine has to push around the cold oil and that makes it harder for the engine to spin. Using a multiviscosity 10W30 or 5W30 oil will help you with engine startup. When temperatures go below zero, you need to have lubrication like fully synthetic oils to protect your engine. When you use low viscosity oils, the oil fl ows quickly giving you more speed with startup which in turn reduces wear and tear on your vehicle engine parts

When starting out, allow your vehicle to idle and warm for a few moments. This will ensure that lubrication has gone through the engine

Keeping your fuel tank topped up will help to avoid condensation and moist air on the inside of the tank, which can cause fuel lines to freeze and other serious issues. This will also enable you to run the vehicle periodically to keep you and your passengers warm while you wait for assistance if you are stuck or delayed in traffi c for an extended period of time.

Turn on your headlights. Your headlights are brighter than your daytime running

lights and this also turns on your taillights making you more visible to drivers both in front and behind you.

When stuck in mud or snow, don’t make the problem worse by damaging an expensive component. Gently rocking in an attempt to free the car is fi ne. But if it looks as though you’re really stuck, don’t keep at it. Throwing your car from forward to reverse repeatedly, as well as spinning tires at hight speeds, can generate a lot of heat and spell trouble for transmissions, clutches and diff erentials. It may be less expensive in the long run to call for a tow truck rather than risking causing damage that could require an expensive repair. It’s a good idea to carry a traction aid, such as sand, gravel or cat litter with you. Your fl oor matts can also be used as a traction aid in a pinch.Be prepared by packing a winter survival kit. Suggested items include:• Emergency kit containing non-perishable

food, blankets and fi rst aid supplies • Windshield scraper and snow brush • Extra windshield washer fl uid • Flares and matches or lighter • Tire chains and gloves • Shovel and traction mat, sand or kitty litter • Flashlight and extra batteries • Battery jumper cables • Spare tire, wheel wrench and jack • Extra clothing and footwear • Sandbags for extra weight

Preserve your door and window seals by wiping with a rubber protectant or silicone on door and window weatherstripping to keep it is good condition. Oil-based products such as WD-40 can damage the rubber and

are not recommended for this application.Regular cleaning and treatment of yourvehicle’s weatherstripping can also lessenthe likelihood of your door sticking to itsrubber seal in cold weather, a commoncause of damage to the rubber.

We all know that water expands whenit freezes. Washing your vehicle duringfreezing conditions can result in damageto exterior seals and trims. If you mustwash your vehicle, it is recommendedit be done at a time during the day thatwill allow for drying time prior to freezingtemperatures.

Reading your owner’s manual willfamiliarize you with the recommendationsmade by the manufacturer that will assistyou in maintaining and prolonging the lifeof your vehicle.

Knowledge is power. Familiarizingyourself with your vehicle’s needs andbeing prepared keeps you in the driver’sseat. You are in control. There is no suchthing as a dumb question. If you don’tknow the answer…..ask the question. Aprofessional facility should provide answersto all your questions no matter how simpleor complex they seem.

Don’t trust your automobile which carriesyour family through life’s daily trips, to justanyone. Choose your maintenance/repairfacility like you would your family doctor.In the long run, this approach saves younot only money, but time and aggravation.Even more importantly, a well maintainedvehicle is a safer one.

Ensure yourself of safe and happy winterdriving experiences. Be prepared and becareful out there.

Prepare for autumn/winterdriving conditions

Get your car winter ready with a mainte-nance check up. Preventative maintenance is key. Make sure your battery, brakes, lights and fuses, cooling and heating systems, electrical and exhaust systems, belts and hoses are in tip-top shape.

Install winter tires. Use four matched winter tires that carry the winter tire logo, even when driving a 4 X 4.

Winter tires improve driving safety by providing better traction in snow, slush and icy conditions. Check for wear before installing the tires and check tire air pres-sure frequently, as it decreases in cold weather.Change your wiper blades to winter blades. They are heavier and push snow and ice more easily. Using your wiper blades to clear built-up snow and ice from

your windshield causes excessive strainon the wiper motor and wiper bladesClear snow and ice from all windows,lights, mirrors, hood and the roof. Afterstarting your vehicle, wait for the win-dows to defrost completely to allow clearvisibility all around.Make sure your water reservoir is full, and carry extra windshield washer fluidin your vehicle.

Here are some tips and suggestions to assist in keeping you safely and reliably on the road:

“A maintenance customer is an educated customer who saves real money by maintaining their vehicle”


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How to Shopfor New Appliances

Buying new or replacing home appli-ances can be a major decision for families. When shopping look for appliances that fi t your family’s lifestyle.

Trends in Kitchen Appliances: The kitch-en has long been seen as an important hub for activity in the home. Kitchens have be-come both the centerpiece and showplace. So naturally the role of appliances in the kitchen has risen beyond simply function to more of an expression of personal style and versatility.

Today’s trend has shifted toward luxury style appliances or high-end functionality. We can see this with the popularity of stain-less steel refrigerators, dishwashers, and in the pro-style ranges with large stainless steel hoods. Stainless steel appliances of-fer a professional look and performance for the ultimate foodie.

Another feature in luxury kitchens that has really shot up in popularity, especially in an open concept living space, is appli-

ances with an integrated look. Cabinet fronts or panels are formed for refrigera-tors and dishwashers for an increasingly custom appearance and blend beautifully in a small or large kitchen.

Cabinets can be fashioned to disguise most kitchen appliances even trash com-pactors, and small beverage fridges. The overall concept achieves an uninterrupted fl ow, keeping most appliances out of sight and shifting emphasis to cabinetry itself with pro style range and hood now be-coming the highlight and focal points of the kitchen.

Many manufacturers already off er a great selection in cabinet panel-ready re-frigerators and dishwashers to match the style of the whole kitchen. Homeowners are also exploring other options, such as hidden ventilation hoods that are con-cealed within cabinetry as well.

Another shift is clearly apparent with manufacturers now off ering induction

ceran tops for both ranges and cooktops.These cooking surfaces use electromag-netic energy that heat food very quicklyand use less energy than gas or conven-tional electric tops.

As the idea of home entertaining be-comes more attractive, many residentialkitchens see features that are normallyassociated with professional kitchen; forexample, the Chef-technique cooking fea-tures six-burner gas tops with front con-trols. This same can be said for use of multi-ple dishwashing units, two becomes betterthan one, with kitchen islands a main stayequipped with microwave drawers anddish-drawers which are gaining popular-ity.

With this multitude of trends, the op-tions for the right appliances for your hubthat refl ect your style and accommodateyour needs are out there. With careful plan-ning you can create the dream kitchen youalways wanted.

1. Select kitchen appliances with attention to how you cook and live. Current cooking and design trends may completely reconfi gure kitchen space and traffi c patterns.

2. Check the space available for the appliance to make sure you select the right size unit and make sure halls and doorways allow clearance for entry and installation.

3. Look online for specifi cation sheets from the manufacturers who make the appliances you plan to purchase. Compare available features, designs and capacities.

4. Select brands that are serviceable in your area, particularly if you live in remote areas.

5. Read the warranty before fi nalizing your decision. Does the warranty cover the entire product? Only certain parts? Is labour included? How long does the warranty last?

Chantelle Mailer, Courtenay Appliances

Darryl Bennett, Chantelle Mailer, Hennie Herselman

“Whatever your lifestyle and your tastes, Courtenay Appliances can help you cook up your dream kitchen.”


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Where do you want to go?Whether your goal is to

learn a trade, get a degree, or retrain for a new career, college can give you a head start on success. Selecting a college that will help you meet your goals is one of the most important deci-sions you’ll ever make. The right college should help you develop your interests, match your learning style, and provide the support you need to succeed.

What do you want to do? When you are consid-

ering college, explore its course and program off er-ings fi rst. Choose a program that matches your interests to improve your chances of success.

Many colleges off er more than one way to get where you want to go. At your local college, you can get guar-anteed entry to university while you attend college, take individual courses towards a univer-sity degree, enrol in a certifi cate program and be trained to enter the workplace within a year, or complete an entire four-year degree where you live. Explore all of your college’s off erings before deciding your path.

How do you learn?Every student is diff erent; not only in

what they take but also in the way they learn and the type of study that works best for them. Some students benefi t from traditional classroom courses, while others have work or family commitments that require evening classes, distance, or online learning.

If classroom learning suits your style, know that colleges generally have small-er classes than universities. Students get more interaction with university-trained faculty and their fellow classmates in a dynamic learning environment. Knowing your instructors and classmates can make a big diff erence to your success.

What do you need?Choosing the right educational path can

be a little intimidating. Good colleges have student services centres, where you can access the support you need to succeed in your studies. Even at smaller colleges, students should have access to libraries, computer labs, advisors, assessment ser-

“Education can take you anywhere. Whatever your goal, a public college off ers a range of options that will give you an excellent start on any adventure.”

1. Research post-secondary institutions by visiting www.educationplanner.ca

2. How much will tuition cost? How many scholarships and government student loans are available?

3. What kind of access do you have to programs at BC universities?

4. How will the college help you meet your career goals?

5. Who recognizes your degree or credential on graduation?

Dr. Jan Lindsay, President, North Island College

How to choose a college

vices, fi nancial aid, a student association, and other vital educational resources.

Student advisors should be available to answer all your questions, big and small, and help you make the most of your aca-demic choices. They off er invaluable one-on-one advising, customized study and transfer plans, information about loans, grants, and bursaries, and step-by-step help in applying or registering for class.

Don’t forget about your personal sup-port system and how it aff ects your aca-demic success. Entering college or uni-versity is a time of great change for many students. Some people do well with heightened academic expectations and new living arrangements, while others benefi t from the stability of their family, friends, and home community. Even if you plan to study in another location, consider whether you would benefi t from a tran-sitional year at a local college, where you can concentrate on your studies from the comforts of home.

How much does it cost?You can save up to $20,000 in tuition

and living expenses by attending a local college for two years and earn the exact same degree as student who attended university for four years. Students at pub-licly funded colleges generally pay lower tuition than students who attend private post-secondary institutions or universi-

ties while earning provincially recog-nized credentials.

Public colleges off er access to a hugearray of university entrance awardsthrough special agreements with selectuniversities, in addition to their ownscholarship and bursary opportunities.

If real-world employment contacts areimportant to you, fi nd out if the collegeoff ers paid career-related work experi-ence at home or internationally throughaccredited co-op programs. Many colleg-es off er ways for students to earn moneywhile they travel and earn employableskills.

Quality education, close to homeNorth Island College is home to 4,649

students from here and around theworld.

As the largest public post-secondary institution on northern Vancouver Is-land, North Island College off ers over 900courses and 70 credit programs in trades,health care, fi ne arts, business, tourism,and university studies. Its extensive se-lection of general interest and industrytraining courses help students discovernew interests and keep their skills cur-rent.

Explore college programs and coursesright for you—where you live. www.nic.bc.ca/advisorswww.nic.bc.ca/programs


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Choose from over 70 programs and 900 courses, plus dozens of university partnerships and opportunities available exclusively at NIC:

Browse all your options at www.nic.bc.ca/programs or call 250-334-5000

Quality education,close to home.

Start your college future with NIC’s discussion-friendly classes, and instructors who inspire you to learn.

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Start your college future with NIC’s discussion-friendly classes, and instructors who inspire you to learn.


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1. Do your assessment of needs and wants

2. Plan your budget

3. Research your shortlist

4. Protect your new car investment

5. Meet the service staff

How to purchasea New Vehicle

Too many of us joke about how frustrat-ing it can be to purchase a new vehicle. The experience need not be as bad as our jokes, and in fact, it can be satisfying – if you do your homework, set up a plan and stick to it.

Next to a home, a vehicle is one of the most expensive items most of us will ever purchase.

Research and planning is key. If you walk into a car dealership and you have no idea of what you want and how much you can aff ord, you may end up buying something out of sheer frustration. Assess your life-style, work habits and recreation needs and be sure the vehicle you want will fi t the bill based on your weighted importance of all three of the categories.

Be sure of your needs. If you are replac-ing a vehicle, consider what you liked about your present vehicle. What do you wish you had and what can you do with-out. Consider your work habits; how far and how long do you travel to and from work?

And do you also use your vehicle for work? Also consider your lifestyle and recreation activities to help draw a picture of what the ideal vehicle is for you.

Budget considerations are very impor-tant. What can you comfortably aff ord in consideration of your monthly expenses and savings. Write down the budget num-bers you have come up with to see what down payment you can comfortably make and what monthly payments you are able to aff ord (example: $3,000 down from sav-ings leaves a $250 bi-weekly payment after your household budget has been fi gured). Remember, a down payment will bring your monthly payments down and can make a diff erence in the future when its trade in time again.

Also take into consideration long term ownership. Look into the added benefi t of an extended mechanical breakdown (war-ranty) protection and also consider pro-tecting your investment with products that will preserve and enhance the interior and

exterior look of your vehicle such as paintand fabric protection. Not only will all threeof these items ensure many years of trou-ble free driving and a look that won’t wearout, your overall satisfaction with your pur-chase won’t end when your car is paid off .Additionally, these items may even addsome extra resale value at trade in time.

Remember, you will probably have more satisfaction buying and owning a new carthat you already know is what you wantand need, at the price you can aff ord. Ad-vance work on your vehicle needs and fi -nancing will save you money and betterprepare you.

The fi nal thing you need to consider isservice. Take a tour of the dealership andmeet key service personnel. They will al-ways be there to take care of your servicingneeds for years of trouble free ownership.

Remember, a good car dealer wants tobe your car dealer for life. A car sale lasts aday, but customer service lasts a lifetime.

Kia has some of the most refreshing and bold award winning designs on the market and their passion is to be a global leader in product quality. Kia’s increasing sales continue to defy the

global economy. Kia truly has “The Power to Surprise”.Jean-Louis Lamoureux, Kia Motors

Front row: Sheila Rivers, John Renton, Wayne GrabowskiSecond row: Dan Fitzgerald, Jean-Louis Lamoureux, Daniel Earl, Brad Taddeo

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ALL VEHICLES INCLUDE:

LIMIT

ED

TIME O

FFER

GO O CO

Off e

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vaila

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Off e

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deale

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ages

show

n may

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ther

taxe

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ll 201

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clude

s $50

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tail c

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elect

new

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urch

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nan

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ver a

36-,

48- o

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able

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turn

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eir ve

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gove

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Retu

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not a

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e pro

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any o

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less

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dea

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purch

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rice f

or 20

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clude

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dea

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appr

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cred

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onus

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at a

valu

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750/

$1,25

0 for

any c

urre

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ners

towa

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he pu

rchas

e or l

ease

of a

new

2012

MY So

rent

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us off

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able

to ca

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ancin

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ore

Octo

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ff er i

s tra

nsfe

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in sa

me h

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hold

only

(mus

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of ad

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mit

of on

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hous

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petit

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new

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Optim

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rid m

odels

at a

value

of $1

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ore t

ax) f

or ow

ners

of an

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rent

com

petit

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brid

vehic

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th pr

oof o

f own

ersh

ip. S

ee de

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or el

igibi

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f com

petit

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an

d full

prog

ram

deta

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erta

in re

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pply.

Off e

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ferra

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sam

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of of

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Lim

it of

one b

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per c

usto

mer

or ho

useh

old. O

ff er n

ot co

mbi

nabl

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any o

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loya

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s Octo

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1, 20

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co-C

redi

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2011

Optim

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d is a

pplic

able

to th

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chas

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ease

of a

new

2011

Kia O

ptim

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rid. A

vaila

ble a

t par

ticip

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deale

rs. Ce

rtain

restr

iction

s app

ly. Se

e de

aler f

or de

tails

. Hi

ghwa

y/cit

y fue

l con

sum

ption

of th

ese v

ehicl

es m

ay va

ry. T

hese

estim

ates

are b

ased

on th

e Gov

ernm

ent o

f Can

ada’s

appr

oved

crite

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d tes

ting m

etho

ds. R

efer

to th

e Gov

ernm

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f Can

ada p

ublic

ation

Ener

Guide

Fuel

Cons

umpt

ion Gu

ide. ^

2011

Kia S

oul/2

011 K

ia So

rent

o/20

11 Op

tima a

ward

ed th

e Top

Safe

ty Pi

ck by

the I

nsur

ance

Insti

tute

for H

ighw

ay Sa

fety

. The

awar

d is a

pplic

able

to al

l 201

1 Sor

ento

mod

els m

anuf

actu

red a

fter M

arch

2010

. Vi

sit w

ww.iih

s.org

for f

ull de

tails

. 20

11 Ki

a Spo

rtage

awar

ded C

ar of

the Y

ear b

y Mot

oring

2011

for B

est S

UV/C

UV (u

nder

$40,0

00) a

nd ov

erall

Car o

f the

Year

. Visi

t www

.mot

oring

tv.co

m fo

r full

deta

ils. »

2011

Optim

a Hyb

rid aw

arde

d the

Guin

ness

Boo

k of W

orld

Reco

rds f

or th

e Low

est F

uel C

onsu

mpt

ion in

a hy

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gaso

line v

ehicl

e whil

e driv

ing th

roug

h all 4

8 adj

oinin

g U.S.

stat

es. °

The B

luet

ooth

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Som

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o the

$500

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rogr

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d $75

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rogr

am. S

ee de

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. Info

rmat

ion in

this

adve

rtise

men

t is be

lieve

d to b

e acc

urat

e at t

he ti

me o

f prin

t. Fo

r mor

e inf

orm

ation

on ou

r 5-y

ear w

arra

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visit k

ia.ca

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ratio

n

Visit kia.ca to learn more.

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5youneedknowto


1. Needs VS. Wants. Do an assessment of what you really want and really need.

2. Do your homework. Know your budget and stay within it.

3. Know what you’re buying. Research is key. You should know what you want and fi nd vehicles to look at that vehicle fi t the bill.

4. Meet all the service staff of the dealership. The thrill of a good deal quickly wears off if your service needs cannot be met.

5. Research and ask questions. The more you know the better!

What to consider whenpurchasing a pre-owned vehicle

Today’s used cars and trucks are built much better than say, 10 or 15 years ago, for sure. Many are still under factory war-ranty and for others, the cost of an extend-ed warranty is very reasonable.

Yes it is a used car, but at the same time you’re not paying a new car price! Some-one else has paid for the “New Car Smell” and absorbed the fi rst few years of depre-ciation for you, meaning you’re getting a like-new car at a used car price.

Buying from a private seller out of the driveway? Well if you are absolutely 100% sure that it is what the seller says it is, you might be ok. If it’s someone you know and trust like a good friend or family member, your chances of a safe, reliable vehicle and a reasonable price are good.

However, most private sales are from strangers who have no interest in anything more than selling the car and taking your cash.

Conversely, reputable car dealers have a lot more at stake to ensure your satisfaction and future business. Most dealerships off er a Carproof or Car Fax vehicle history report as well as a full report on vehicle condition, based on an in-shop inspection. Also, car dealers and car salespeople in BC are li-censed by the BC Vehicle Sales Authority , a watchdog of the retail car industry. Needs Vs. Wants: The battle of the Choices.

Draw a line down the middle of a clean sheet of paper. Make 2 columns; Needs and Wants. Needs... How far do you drive

and how often? Let’s say you travel a long distance 3-4 days a week. Fuel effi ciency, comfort and safety are primary concerns. On the needs side, write “fuel economy, air-bags, antilock brakes, comfortable seats.” Consider also the non-work time you may use your vehicle for. Perhaps you have chil-dren (soccer mom or dad!)... In the needs column you may write, “lots of seating”. You get the idea. Think about your lifestyle and picture your new vehicle as being part of that lifestyle.

Now, wants... It has been said that peo-ple will consider the vehicle they drive as an extension of their personality, or fi ts their personality; in other words perhaps “what” you drive is like a suit jacket or outfi t that displays your personal taste. “Wants” can include such things as style, color, performance, etc. True decision making is a balance of both columns of “needs” and “wants”; a balance of rational and emo-tional motivators.Financing: Do your homework

Probably the most overlooked and un-der emphasized part of the buying process is budgeting. Budget what you can aff ord to pay for your “new to you vehicle”.

If you know what your monthly budget can support, making the fi nal buying deci-sion will be that much easier and will make you feel like you are defi nitely making the right buying decision. It will take the pres-sure off thinking you need to “go home and think it over”. Basically, you will have done the “thinking” before you start shopping.

So plan the budget. Consider your pay-day frequency; is it monthly, semi-monthly(end of month, middle of month) or bi-weekly (every 2 weeks). In any case, thepayments of your car can be tailored to fi tyour pay day schedule.

Also consider the down payment. Themore you put down, the faster the car ispaid for and the less interest you will ac-crue.Know what you’re buying

After your needs and wants assessmentand planning your budget, start yoursearch. Use the internet to help you nar-row down your choices to a shortlist priorto ever going to a car lot.

Once you know what you’re lookingfor and how much you have budgeted tospend on it, the rest is easy. Email the deal-erships that have the vehicle you want andset appointments to view and test drive.

When you arrive at your appointment,take time to discuss your needs and wantsas well as your budget with your salesper-son. Having done the work up front willreally pay off here because you’re workingfrom your short list, the selection processis pretty much already done. Discuss yourtrade, (if you have one) but don’t get toowrapped up in the trade value. Remem-ber to stick closely to your plans and beupfront with the salesperson; explain thatyou have done your homework and youhave a budget. This will make the buyingprocess painless and enjoyable for bothparties.

“Do your homework-know what you need/what and what your budget can support. This bit of homework will take the pressure off thinking you need to “go home and think it over”... Basically, you will have done the “thinking” before you start shopping. Dave Derhak, Island Honda

From left to right. Thomas Cliff e, Detail; Jeff Kurbatoff , Serv. Advisor; Allen Derhak, Detail; Jeff Keenan, Serv. Advisor; Vicki Little, Finance Manager; Jason King , Technician; Brian Haftner, Fix Ops Manager;

Jordan Theedom, General Sales Manager; Mike Freels, Technician; Ted Willoghby, Parts Manager; Paul Harris, Technician; Hank Ewert, Sales Asscociate; Mark Breadmore , Sales Ascociate; Dave Derhak, General Manager.


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2008 Acura TL 2008 BMW 355i 2007 Acura RL Sedan

2005 CRV EX AWD 2007 Ridgeline EX-L 2007 Chrysler Aspen Ltd.

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5youneedknowto


“You’ve seen our Big Truck driving around town… and yes, size does matter!”

1. It is best not to choose a carpet cleaner based on a single telephone call. Instead, invite the person to your home and ask for a specifi c written quotation.

2. Hot water does not damage your carpets; it cleans them thoroughly when the proper equipment is used to suction all the water out.

3. Living creatures, such as dust mites, fl eas and germs live and breed in your carpets – vacuuming alone is not enough.

4. Always choose a carpet cleaning company that off ers a risk-free guarantee, and that will stand behind every job 100%.

5. Choose a company that is certifi ed by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certifi cation (IICRC).

Choosing a carpet cleaner isn’t easy. Hopefully this information will help you make an informed, intelligent decision.

The Importance of Value and Price.Price is what you pay. Value is what you get.

When you select a carpet cleaner, you’ll choose from a wide variety of cleaning methods and prices. Shaw Industries, the world’s largest carpet manufacturer, recommends hot water extraction from a truck-mounted unit, and using a por-table unit only in areas where the truck-mounted unit won’t reach.

Here’s why: a truck-mounted unit cleans much better than a portable unit for three reasons:

(1) It heats the water to a higher tem-perature. For every 18 degree increase in temperature above 118 degrees F, you double the water’s cleaning ability.

So if the water temperature is 136 de-grees F, it will clean twice as well as water that is 118 degrees F. 154 degree water will clean four times as well as 118 degree

How to choose acarpet cleaner

water, and so on, un-til you reach a water temperature of 240 degrees F.

(2) It shoots the cleaning solution into your carpet at higher pressures, which breaks up the dirt, bacteria, chemicals and pol-lens. 300 to 400 pounds per square inch is the optimum pressure for truck-mount hot water extraction.

(3) The machine uses stronger suc-tion to draw the dirt, chemicals, bacteria, pollens and tobacco smoke residue out of your carpet.

Not surprisingly, having your carpet thoroughly cleaned with truck-mount hot water extraction costs more than renting a sham-pooer at the corner grocery store. If you

bought the cheapest carpeting you could fi nd, then renting a small shampooer might be all you need. No question, it will get out some of the dirt – but it will not get out many of the pollens, chemi-cals, bacteria and dust mite residues.

On the other hand, if you want your carpet to look good and give you years of dependable service, then you need to take extra good care of it.

You should have it cleaned by a skilled, qualifi ed technician at least every six months to one year, depending on the amount of soiling and foot traffi c it re-ceives. And you need to have it cleaned and sanitized, as only a truck-mount hot water extractor can do.

3 COSTLY MISCONCEPTIONSABOUT CARPET CLEANING

MISCONCEPTION #1:You should wait as long as possible be-

fore cleaning your carpet. No. Dirt is as abrasive as sandpaper.

Every time you step on your carpet, you grind dirt into the carpet fi bers. This

cuts your carpet, just as if you had useda knife. This cutting causes your carpetto wear out faster. A dirty carpet will notlast as long as a clean carpet. And whilevacuuming helps by itself, it’s simply notenough. The longer you wait to have yourcarpet cleaned the more damage you doto the carpet and the faster it wears out.

MISCONCEPTION #2: The only reason to clean carpets is to

remove dirt.No. As you probably know, outdoor

air contains pollens, fungus, bacteria, airpollution, cigarette smoke, car exhaustand hundreds of other chemicals. Whenyou come into your home, you carrythose pollens, bacteria and chemicals inyour hair and on your skin, clothing andshoes.

Not surprisingly, all those chemicals and toxins wind up in your carpet. Ifyou have allergies, asthma, emphysema,and other breathing problems, one ma-jor source of your problem could be thepollens, fungus, smoke and chemicals inyour carpet.

MISCONCEPTION # 3:The Company that off ers the lowest

price is the company you should hire. No. Many problems can arise from the

lowest bid. To some degree, all of us areattracted by low price because we wantto work within a budget. But be awarethat the price advertised may not be theprice you pay.

Many homeowners have learned that the low price they saw advertised lastedonly until the carpet cleaner got intotheir home. They were quoted one price(usually per room) and then, once in yourhome, it would be suggested you buy avariety of “add-ons”.

Also know that honest, reputable car-pet cleaning companies almost neverprice carpet cleaning by the room. In-stead, carpet cleaning is usually pricedby the square foot - they need to knowthe exact number of square feet that youwant cleaned to give you an accurate costof cleaning your carpet.

Then ask for a specifi c quote in writing. A written quote gives the assurance thatyou’ll know exactly what your job willcost – no surprises.

Before you choose a carpet cleaner, ask for references or read comments from cur-rent customers to ensure you are going toget a quality job and that you can dependon the carpet cleaner and his work.

Nathan Holley, OwnerGreen Earth Carpet Cleaning


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How to Choose Tires

Selecting the right tires for your vehicle is an important decision. Your safety, as well as driving enjoyment over the coming years and thousands of kilometres will be determined by this decision. The information provided here will ensure you select tires that match your vehicle and the way you drive it!

How many tires do you need?Since tires aff ect the performance of your

vehicle, all four tires should be as identical as possible or handling problems may arise. If your tires don’t match, it is possible that one end of your vehicle won’t respond as quickly or completely as the other, making it more diffi cult to control.JUST ONE TIRE?

If your tires have a lot of remaining tread depth, but you need to replace just one that has been damaged by an accident, road haz-ard or a vandal, you should replace it with a tire that exactly matches the others. Select a replacement tire of the same brand, line, size and speed rating. While there may be a less expensive tire available, it wouldn’t be a bar-gain this time because it would be diff erent than the other three tires on your vehicle.A PAIR OF TIRES?

If two of your tires have a lot of remaining tread depth, but you need to replace the oth-er two because they were damaged or have worn out, you should replace them with a pair of tires that come as close as possible to matching your existing tires. While identical new tires are desirable, others of the same size and type can also provide good results. Only consider selecting new tires that are from the same tire category as your existing tires. New tires should be installed on the rear axle.

While your vehicle is being serviced ask your mechanic why one pair of tires have worn faster than the others. Was it caused by a lack of tire rotation, out-of-spec wheel align-ment or loose mechanical parts?

Once the problem has been found, it can be corrected before it damages your new tires. Keep in mind that your ultimate goal is that all of your tires always wear out at the same time so they can be replaced as a set.A SET OF TIRES?

If all of your tires are wearing out together, you have the greatest fl exibility in tire selec-tion. If you were happy with the original tires, simply replace them. If you want longer tread-wear, a smoother ride or more handling, there are tires that will help you accomplish that. Review the tire category types until you fi nd a category description that describes a tire that fi ts your needs.WHAT IS THE RIGHT SIZE FOR MYVEHICLE?

Buying the correct tire size can get compli-cated, especially if you decide to upgrade from your vehicle’s original equipment size

A tire’s fi rst requirement is that it must be able to carry the weight of your vehicle. No matter how good a tire you select, if its capa-bilities are “overworked” just carrying the load, it will have little reserve capacity to help your vehicle respond to quick emergency. So when you are in the selection process, make certain that your new tire’s size is designed to carry the weight of your vehicle! Don’t undersize.

The other size consideration is overall tire diameter.

Since many of the functions of today’s ve-hicles are highly computerized, maintaining accurate speed data going into the computer

assures accurate instructions coming out. And an important part of the speed equa-

tion is your tire’s overall tire diameter.Do I need summer tires, winter tires, all-

season tires?Do you drive your car only in sunshine, or

also through rain and snow? Do you driveyour vehicle on the road, off the road, or areyou the one responsible for clearing the landto build the roads? To successfully meet eachof these driving conditions requires a diff er-ent type of tire.

Ask yourself this question to determine which performance category you shouldchoose from:

What is the worst driving condition I willencounter?

The important thing to do is to select yourtires so that they match the worst driving con-dition you expect to encounter. When you’restuck in the snow because your tires don’thave the appropriate capabilities, you’ll cursetheir limited performance.COMMON SENSE

As a tire wears it is important to realize thatwhile its dry traction and handling will im-prove . . . its ability to perform in rain andsnow will diminish. At 2/32” of remainingtread depth, resistance to hydroplaning in therain at highway speeds has been signifi cantlyreduced and traction in heavy snow has beenvirtually eliminated.

If rain and wet roads are a concern, youshould consider replacing your tires whenthey reach approximately 4/32” of remainingtread depth.

If snow is a concern, you should consider replacing your tires when they reach approxi-mately 6/32” of remaining tread depth.

A good set of winter tires is always recommended for the best traction in icy or snowy conditions. Canadian Tire off ers the largest selection of tires in Canada. We also have a large selection of steel and aluminum rims to fi t most vehicles.

1. Wet weather tires are essential when living in a climate such as ours where it rains often. All-season tires are the best option for wet climates. If you drive in an area where it snows often, then you should also have a set of winter tires that you will switch for during the colder season.

2. Passenger-car and light-truck tires are very diff erent. Pickup and SUV owners will generally select passenger-car tires because they are less costly and off er a smoother ride. However, if a vehicle will consistently be loaded with cargo or will be asked to pull a heavy trailer, then perhaps the higher load carrying capacity of a light-truck tire would be the better choice.

3. The most common way of damaging tires is improper infl ation. As tires lose pressure over time it causes them to experience irregular and early treadwear, and also give you poor gas mileage.

4. Improper alignment on either the front or rear wheels can result in unusual tread wear, damage to your suspension, and poor handling.

5. Keep in mind that any tire selection is a balance between ride quality, noise suppression, fuel economy, wear, load capability and cost. It’s always best to talk to a tire-store expert to aid in your selection of a tire that is the right balance of each.

Dan Shoemaker,Auto Service Manager, Canadian Tire


Don’t know your tire size?Find it at canadiantire.ca/tires

TIRE SELECTORFIND TIRES

Wheel Alignment

1/2 PRICEwith purchase of any 4 tires*

Can Help:

• Improve fuel economy• Extend tire lifeMost Vehicles. See store for details.Expires Nov. 30, 2011

Installed. Balancng extra. See store for details Tire studding extra. Sale ends November 30, 2011.

SAVE $30-$70ON A SET OF 4

GOODYEAR NORDICWINTER TIRES

P175/70R13 82S 79.99 72.49

P175/65R14 81S 94.99 84.99

P205/70R15 95S 112.99 100.49

P195/65R15 89S 112.99 100.49

P205/55R16 89S 136.99 121.99

P215/65R16 98S 136.99 121.99

P225/60R17 98S 169.99 152.49

*See in store for more sizes

GOODYEARNORDIC*

Reg.price,each

Sale.price,each

WINTER

,Sale.price,

Store Hours:Monday - Friday 8am - 9pm

Saturday 8am - 8pm • Sunday 9am - 6pm

Service Dept. Hours:Monday - Saturday 8am - 6pm

Sunday 9am - 5pm

278 N. Island Hwy., CourtenayService: 250-338-6553 Store: 250-338-0101

No PaymentsNo InterestNo Fee*

on ALL tires totalling$200 or more.Cardmembers only. Apply in store. Expires Jan. 28, 2012

months*12for

N RDICN RDIC❄❄

WINTERPREP SALE

MOTOMASTERM

FREEOil Change*

Thank you for purchasing 4 tires.We look forward to servicingyour vehicle in the future.*Most vehicles. Offer ends Nov. 30, 2011.Must be used betweenJan. 1 and March 15, 2012.


5youneedknowto


“The human race is challenged more than ever before to demonstrate our mastery,

not over nature but of ourselves.”

1. With Socially Responsible Investing, you can reach your goals while investing in a sustainable future.

2. There is a wide range of SRI investments available for every type of investor. Their main diff erence is they keep companies they invest in accountable.

3. SRI managers screen possible investments to avoid weapons, tobacco, pornography or nuclear power. The may also favour sustainable companies.

4. SRI managers use their voting power to infl uence companies in a positive way.

5. Socially Responsible Investments give back to the community, both at home and around the globe.

How to Investwith a Clear Conscience

Socially responsible investing (“SRI”) is the integration of an investor’s societal, en-vironmental and ethical values with their investment decisions. Socially responsible investing is the process of making invest-ment decisions in pursuit of social and en-vironmental returns in addition to seeking fi nancial returns producing a “triple bot-tom line”.

There are many approaches to SRI in-vesting in Canada. One of the more robust ways of implementing an SRI mandate is through a three pillar approach includ-ing: Screening, Shareholder Advocacy, and Community Development Investment (CDI).

SRI managers screen the investment universe using both negative and positive criteria. Negative screens highlight com-panies to avoid, and positive screens high-light companies to include.

For example, SRI managers may avoid companies involved in activities such as: weapons contracting; tobacco manufac-turing; pornography; and nuclear power. On the other hand, positive screening is a proactive process to select companies that show leadership on various social and en-vironmental issues.

Shareholder advocacy is the process of using shareholder infl uence to help bring about positive social and environmental change at corporations. Post the 2008 global fi nancial crisis, we have seen an in-crease in advocacy regarding executive compensation with say-on-pay voting at annual shareholder meetings.

Community Development Investment (CDI) is the investment of money into com-munity development or micro-credit initia-tives that contribute to the growth and well being of disadvantaged communities. The magnitude of impact CDI can have is far greater than the actual dollars and cents.

Have you ever considered that $10 could change a life? A $90 micro-fi nance loan and a Tanzanian mother supporting her family of nine (9) are living proof of the validity of this statement. Today she has a shop full of produce, a fl eet of rental bi-cycles and a solid base of customers but it wasn’t always this easy for this mom to run her own business.

In 2006, her produce was damaged by a combination of bad weather conditions and poor transportation. After various ef-forts fell short, she became aware of a micro-fi nance program available from her

local savings and credit cooperative. Upon complying with compulsory share and savings component to join the coopera-tive she received her fi rst loan for 150,000 Tanzanian shillings - equivalent to approxi-mately $90 Canadian – which enabled her to rebuild her business over the following year, and generate enough capital to run a sustainable enterprise. Today, she holds 1.26 million Tanzanian shillings in savings with the cooperative, has bought a plot of land and provided basic requirements for her family.

Socially Responsible Investing is an avenue to invest in your fi nancial future through a socially just, environmentally friendly and ethical vehicle.

The information contained in this article is provided by OceanRock Investments Inc. (OceanRock) for general informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon as providing, legal, accounting, tax, fi nancial,investment or other advice, or a solicitation to buy or sell any securities. The information was obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but cannot be guaranteed to be current, accurate or complete. OceanRock is not responsible for anyerrors or omissions contained herein.Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and pastperformance may not be repeated. Publication date October 2011.

Ivan VazquezWealth Management Specialist,

First Insurance Agencies Ltd.

Rachel Carson (1907-1964)


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1. When purchasing hardwood fl ooring take the time to get two quotes (on the same quality of wood and work) and check references.

2. Clean your wood fl oors periodically with a professional wood fl oor cleaning product recommended by a wood fl ooring professional.

3. Keep humidity levels as close to 45 to 55 per cent relative humidity. At best, avoid extreme humidity changes ( 30 per cent or more).

4. Buffi ng, recoating and resanding a hardwood fl oor should be performed by an experienced hardwood fl oor professional.

5. Take your outside shoes off to preserve a nicely fi nished hardwood fl oor.

How to chooseHardwood Flooring

Distinctive graining, rich natural colours, wood fl oors provide a unique inherent character to a room that never goes out of style and is an investment for generations. From the vintage look of hand-scraped wood to popular oaks and maples, there is a wood fl ooring solution for any décor style, for any room in the home. Most of today’s wood fl ooring is delivered from the factory with a multi-layered surface fi nish topped with a tough wear-resistant layer that requires very little maintenance. Colours, species, grains, widths, fi nishes and shapes, the possibilities are endless.

Where to ShopQ: Where should I shop for my hardwood

fl oor?A: Look for a store that specializes in fl oor-

ing and has knowledgeable sales staff and factory-trained installers.

Installing hardwood fl oorsQ: Can anyone install hardwood fl ooring?A: Hardwood is a specialty item. Manufac-

tures do recommend it be profession-ally installed, however there are some hardwoods that are available with a clicking system allowing for a DIY instal-lation if desired.

Hardwood fl oors on the West CoastQ: Can I have hardwood fl oors in my home

if I live on the west coast?A: Absolutely, yes! The proper choice of

products as well as proper installation is critical. An engineered hardwood over a solid hardwood is recommended for our climate due to the stability of the product.

Engineered HardwoodQ: What is engineered hardwood?A: Engineered wood fl ooring is composed

of two or more layers of wood in the form of a plank. The top layer is the wood that is visible when the fl ooring is installed, and is adhered to the core which provides the stability. An engi-neered hardwood core can consist of layers of plywood or a high density fi -ber core which both allow the product to be very stable.

“Beautiful and long-lasting, hardwood fl oors make an elegant choice for nearly any room in your home.”

Moisture a Problem?Q: Can moisture be a problem?A: Yes. There are numerous methods of

testing the moisture content in your subfl oor. A qualifi ed specialty retailer will have the proper equipment to per-form these measurements.

Floating fl oorQ: What is a fl oating fl oor?A: This can be a laminate or engineered

wood fl oor that is held together by the tongue and groove or a clicking system on the side of the boards. This prod-uct is not adhered to the subfl oor. It is installed over an under layment and moisture barrier.

Laminate vs Engineered HardwoodQ: Is a laminate fl oor the same as an engi-

neered fl oor?A: No. A laminate fl oor has a wear surface

over a photograph of a wood grain or tile pattern.

Refi nishingQ: Can I refi nish an engineered hardwood

fl oor?A: Small gouges or dings can easily be

repaired by a professional. An engi-neered or solid hardwood with layers of urethane can be refi nished numerous times. However, this is usually not nec-essary for 15 to 25 years.

Wood fl oors in kitchensQ: Can wood fl oors be installed in a kitch-

en?A: Yes. New fi nishes on hardwood fl oors

make it easy to clean up spills. Somemanufactures go the extent of includ-ing an antimicrobial agent that inhibitsthe risk of microbe and mildew growth on the fi nished surface.

Cleaning/MaintenanceQ: How do I clean a hardwood fl oor?A: Only use products recommended by

the manufacturer. Beware of off -the-shelf cleaners that will void any warran-ties. Recommended cleaning products are available from a specialty fl ooring store.

Advantages of HardwoodQ: What are the advantages of a hardwood

fl oor?A: Hardwood fl oors off er natural beauty

and durability, and will add to the ap-praised value of your home whichlets you enjoy a sound investment foryears.

SOLID HARDWOOD

ENGINEEREDWITH HARDWOOD CORE

ENGINEERED WITH HDF CORE

SOLID VS. ENGINEERED

Anthony McCutheon, Store Manager, United Carpets


Laminate: Adorn - Paradise Birch

Area Rug: Ikat Panel - Light Multi

You are formally invited to view HGTV’s first collection of flooring products made exclusively by

Shaw Floors. Get inspired, get educated, get ready to enjoy beautiful, new flooring.

Visit your authorized HGTV HOME Flooring by Shaw Dealer today and choose Shaw floors for

beauty, comfort and lifetime warranties that protect against . . . life.

FLOORING BY

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Collection by SHAW FLOORS

carpet | area rugs | hardwood | laminate | shawfl oors.com/HGTVHGTV HOME Flooring by Shaw is a trademark of Scripps Networks, LLC used under license to Shaw Industries, Inc.

carpet | area rugs | hardwood | laminate | shawfl oors.com/HGTVHGTV HOME Flooring by Shaw is a trademark of Scripps Networks, LLC used under license to Shaw Industries, Inc.

Serving the Comox Valley since 1976362-B 10th St. Courtenay

[email protected]

www.courtenayfl ooring.comwww.unitedcarpet.ca


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for kitchens, vanity countertops, shower walls... We do it all. Call us!

Quartz, Laminate & Granite Surfaces

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