Tag Archives: ecofriendly

Digging In, Seasonal

Digging In: Massachusetts May Planting Guide

Newbies and Green thumbs alike, it’s May, say farewell to frost, it’s time to get dirty with this May Planting Guide! The plants respond to the warmer weather with vigor and can now reliably be planted so that, with luck and attention, they will mature in time to pick your veggies, herbs, and flowers.

Veggies Galor.

Time to put in those tomatoes, peppers, cucumber and squash! These sun-loving plants will begin to flourish in the warmer, longer days of May and will bloom into such a full blown harvest by mid-summer that you will be sharing the bounty.

Free pile chinese cucumber photo
Organic vegetable patch, gardening by U.S. Department of Agriculture is licensed under CC-CC0 1.0

Flavor for Garden.

Lift your food game by planting fresh herbs: plant basil, cilantro, parsley and dill in May in 7a. They not only flavor food, they draw good insects to the garden. If you decide to plant mint, do it in a contained area such as a raised bed, away from other plants. Mint will spread thanks to rhizomes in the roots and overtake anything it can.

Make it Pretty.

If you have a garden, consider planting blooms, since the garden bed or container will welcome flowers soon. For Massachusetts gardeners, consider planting marigolds, zinnias, and petunias in May. These annuals will pleasure you with flower blooms in the garden through the summer! Adding bright colors and pollen producing florals to your garden will encourage pollinators to pull up a stool.

Zinnias
Zinnias by NASA Johnson is licensed under CC-BY-NC 2.0

Tip and Tricks for May Planting Guide

Before sowing seed or planting germinated seeds or transplants from the May Planting guide, prepare your soil by incorporating compost or some other type of organic matter. This will enrich the soil’s nutrient profile. It can also enhance the porosity of clay soils, helping them better absorb and retain moisture. After planting, water new seeds and transplants frequently, especially temporarily during hot or dry conditions.

And that’s your planting guide for Massachusetts in May, in Zone 7a, which is the last planting zone state-wide, assuming worst-case frosts. For more information or to participate in community gardens give one our fave non-profits a visit, BACKYARD GROWERS!

backyardgrowers.org

And don’t forget to plant some squash, but most of all have fun!

Lil' Contractors

Lil’ Contractors – April Vacation Activities

Leave a comment

Lil’ Contractors: Our series focusing on play to fuel kids curiosity and provide structured activities based around STEM activities.

April vacation is almost here which means lots and lots of time with your kids and we’ve taken some time to make sure you both make it through with our first installment of “Lil’ Contractors”, our series focusing on playing with kids to fuel their curiosity and provide structured activities based around STEM activities.

Today, we’re giving you some background, diving into the awesome world of play and STEM education for school-aged children. Yep, we’re talking about building blocks, contraptions, and a whole lot of fun learning. Let’s get into why these things are so darn important.

The Lowdown on Play

Alright Lil’ Contractors, let’s start with play . You might think it’s just goofing off, but it’s way more than that. Play is like the secret sauce of childhood development. It’s where kids learn to share, negotiate, and imagine all sorts of wild scenarios. Whether they’re playing make-believe, building epic forts, or running around outside, they’re honing some pretty important life skills. Ask how many contractors had Lincoln Logs as a kid, probably quite a few.

And get this—play isn’t just about having fun (although that’s a big part of it). It’s also super crucial for brain development. When kids play, their brains are firing on all cylinders, making connections and learning new stuff without even realizing it. So, yeah, playtime is serious business!

The Scoop on STEM

Now, let’s talk about STEM. That’s short for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. Sounds fancy, right? But really, it’s just about exploring how things work and solving cool puzzles. Think building robots, mixing potions (okay, maybe just colorful liquids), and figuring out how to make stuff fly.

STEM education is like giving kids superpowers. It teaches them to think critically, solve problems, and maybe even change the world someday. Plus, with technology becoming more and more a part of everyday life, giving kids a head start in STEM is like giving them a golden ticket to the future.

Why They’re a Dynamic Duo

So, what happens when you mix play and STEM together? You get a match made in education heaven! Seriously, it’s like peanut butter and jelly—perfect together. When kids play with STEM toys or do fun science experiments, they’re not just having a blast; they’re also learning valuable skills like teamwork, creativity, and perseverance.

By letting kids explore STEM concepts through play, we’re setting them up for success in school and beyond. Plus, it makes learning way more exciting. Who wouldn’t want to learn about gravity by building a marshmallow and toothpick tower and seeing how high it can go?

alt "a lil' contractor uses a captapult made of popsicle sticks and spoon to launch a tinfoil ball"

In a Nutshell

Alright, folks, here’s the deal: play and STEM are like the dynamic duo of childhood education. They’re not just important; they’re essential for helping kids grow, learn, and become awesome humans. So, grab your Lil’ Contractor, get out there and play with some contraptions, test some theories, and maybe learn a thing or two along the way!

Disclaimer:
Building Center, herein referred to as “the Company,” is a reputable provider of building materials catering to homeowners and industry professionals alike. The contents of this blog is intended solely for the purpose of informing and assisting individuals engaged in various building projects.

It is imperative to emphasize that the information presented herein is provided strictly for informational purposes. While the Company endeavors to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the content to the best of its ability, it must be acknowledged that inadvertent omissions, errors, or inaccuracies may occur.

Therefore, it is strongly advised that individuals seek the counsel and guidance of qualified professionals before embarking on any course of action based on the information provided in this blog. Safety considerations must always take precedence in all building endeavors.

Accordingly, any actions undertaken based on the information presented within this blog are executed at the sole risk and discretion of the reader.

The Company, its affiliates, and its representatives shall not be held liable or accountable for any adverse consequences, damages, or losses incurred as a result of reliance on the information contained in this blog.

By accessing and utilizing this blog, the reader acknowledges and agrees to hold the Company harmless from any and all liabilities arising from such reliance.

Renovations

Embrace the Future: Top 5 Trends for Home Renovation in 2024

Leave a comment

The top 5 trends can help you stay ahead of the curve. It’s essential for creating spaces that are not only stylish but also functional and future-proof. As we step into 2024, a new wave of trends is reshaping the way we approach revamping our living spaces. From sustainable designs to advanced technology integration, here are the top five trends dominating the landscape of home renovation this year.

1. Eco-Friendly Materials Take Center Stage

In Home Trends 2024, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a way of life. Homeowners are increasingly opting for eco-friendly materials that minimize environmental impact without compromising aesthetics. From the locally recycled glass countertops in our Showroom, to energy-efficient appliances, and low VOC paints there’s a growing demand for products that promote green living. Incorporating these sustainable elements not only reduces carbon footprint but also adds a unique charm to your home.

2. Smart Homes Get Smarter

The rise of smart home technology continues to revolutionize the way we interact with our living spaces. In 2024, we’re seeing a surge in demand for integrated smart home systems that offer seamless connectivity and control. From voice-activated assistants and automated lighting to smart thermostats and security systems, homeowners are embracing technology to enhance convenience, comfort, and security. Investing in smart home upgrades not only adds value to your property but also ensures a more connected and efficient lifestyle.

3. Flexible Living Spaces for Remote Work

The shift towards remote work has transformed the way we use our homes, giving rise to the need for versatile living spaces that cater to both work and leisure. Home Trends 2024, home renovation trends are focusing on creating multifunctional areas that can easily adapt to changing needs. From convertible home offices and modular furniture to designated relaxation zones, homeowners are seeking ways to maximize space and functionality without sacrificing style. By embracing flexible living concepts, you can create a home environment that seamlessly accommodates your evolving lifestyle.

4. Biophilic Design Brings the Outdoors In

In an increasingly urbanized world, reconnecting with nature has never been more important. Biophilic design, which incorporates elements of nature into the built environment, is gaining popularity as homeowners seek to create spaces that promote health and well-being. In 2024, we’re seeing a surge in biophilic design elements such as indoor gardens, natural materials, and ample natural light. By blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, biophilic design creates a sense of harmony and tranquility that enhances overall quality of life.

BC Gloucester - Summer

5. Personalized Touches Reflect Individuality

In a world of mass production, personalization is key to creating a home that truly reflects your unique personality and lifestyle. In 2024, homeowners are moving away from cookie-cutter designs in favor of personalized touches that add character and charm to their spaces. Whether it’s custom-built furniture, bespoke finishes, or handcrafted accents, incorporating elements that speak to your individual taste is a trend that’s here to stay. By infusing your home with personal touches, you can create a space that feels truly one-of-a-kind.

The world of home trends 2024 is marked by a commitment to sustainability, embracing smart technology, and a focus on creating spaces that adapt to our evolving lifestyles. By embracing these top five trends, homeowners can transform their living spaces into havens of style, functionality, and comfort for years to come.

Building Center, herein referred to as “the Company,” is a reputable provider of building materials catering to homeowners and industry professionals alike. The contents of this blog is intended solely for the purpose of informing and assisting individuals engaged in various building projects. It is imperative to emphasize that the information presented herein is provided strictly for informational purposes. While the Company endeavors to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the content to the best of its ability, it must be acknowledged that inadvertent omissions, errors, or inaccuracies may occur.

Therefore, it is strongly advised that individuals seek the counsel and guidance of qualified professionals before embarking on any course of action based on the information provided in this blog. Safety considerations must always take precedence in all building endeavors. Accordingly, any actions undertaken based on the information presented within this blog are executed at the sole risk and discretion of the reader.

The Company, its affiliates, and its representatives shall not be held liable or accountable for any adverse consequences, damages, or losses incurred as a result of reliance on the information contained in this blog. By accessing and utilizing this blog, the reader acknowledges and agrees to hold the Company harmless from any and all liabilities arising from such reliance.