Tips for Building a Shed

Sheds are extremely useful and with some helpful tips, not that hard to build. The success of your shed depends on the time and thought you put into the front end and planning of the shed. Check out zoning and legal restrictions for your area. Your area may have regulations that can affect the placement, design, materials used, etc.

Once you know what is allowed, look for a level spot where you can avoid poor drainage. Consider what the shed will be used for when deciding on placement and size. Your shed's appearance is based on basic proportions, roof shape, door, window style, roof, wall finishes and surfaces. Do you want to build the shed to match your home or use a different architectural style? All are good considerations.

Sketch a detailed plan, the more accurate the plan, the easier time you will have shoping at the lumberyard. When it comes to building, here are some pointers.

• Build a firm foundation - There are many different foundation options, including concrete slab, footings, posts in the grounds or rocks. Whatever you use, make sure your foundation is solid and reasonably level.


• Keep the building square, plumb and level - Take the time to get this right. Square off your rim joists by measuring for equal diagonals. Some foundations may require you to add shims to get the rim level. Before the walls are raised, square them up and add temporary diagonal braces.


• Work efficiently - Keep all tools, materials and equipment in designated places. Don't add to your frustration by having to dig for what you need.


• Consider critter-proofing - Place a metal screen over vents. If your shed is raised off the ground, screen or block off the area under the building.


• Take your time - If this is the first time you have built, then estimate the time you think each phase should take you and take twice that on each phase.
  
• Above all, work safely - Be cautious!

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Spring Lawn Mower Maintenance

It is important to remember that as spring nears, gas mower maintenance is important. It can save on gas and cut pollution by as much as 50%. This is significant considering a push mower can produce as much pollution per hour as 11 cars!

Below are four easy steps you can take to help improve fuel efficiency and cut down on one of the largest sources of residential pollution. Keep in mind the only way to significantly cut down on the pollution is by trading in your mower for an electric or self-propelled mower.

1. Change the oil: Just like a car, dirty oil cuts down on engine performance


2. Check the filter: Consult your owners manual for specifics, but regularly clean your air filter and consider replacing it at least every two years.


3. Swap the spark plugs: Old spark plugs should be replaced


4. Sharpen your blade: This will make sure the grass is cut at first pass and leaves the grass in a healthier state for growth

This Tip of the Week is brought to you by The Daily Green. Visit www.countrylivingassociation.org for past tips. Have one to share? E-mail CLA

Cooking Fish

After last week's tip regarding filleting fish, the next step is finding a good method to cook your fish. Fresh fish, not frozen, is always the best! The taste of freshly cleaned fish can not be duplicated. The way you cook fish comes down to your preference: baking, broiling, grilling or frying. There are a wide variety of fish coatings and batters in existence that create a special taste. Use Internet search engines to locate several options as well as recipes.

If you are frying the fish, an important key is to get the cooking pil hot and fry briefly, turning as necessary. Below is a batter for friend fish called Fried Fish in Three Cheese Blend.

Ingredients:
1/2 cup flour
1 cup of Kraft's Three Cheese Blend: Parmesan, Romano and Asiago
1/2 tsp of salt
3/4 tsp of pepper

Directions:
Make sure the fillets are damp when they are put into the breading mix. Put just enough oil in the pan so that the fillets don't stick and get the oil up to 350 degrees before placing the fish in the frying pan.

This meal is served well with coleslaw and/or a baked potato.

This Tip of the Week was brought to you by Acreage. Have one to share? E-mail CLA.

Welcome to the new Country Living Association Blog

The Country Living Association is the premier organization for rural lifestyle enthusiasts. CLA seeks to connect people who share a passion for living the country life.

Here we will post weekly "how-to" tips with information about diverse topics such as pest control, animal nutrition and connectivity.

Enjoy.