Page 24 - February Magazine 2020
P. 24
A Brief History Of Futons
Originally from Japan, Futons are and a bean- or plastic bead-filled a couch and a bed. Western futons
like bed mattresses but used and pillow (makura). This is equivalent to are constructed larger and thicker
made differently than in their home a western bed set. than Japanese futons, and are cheap
country. compared to regular mattresses or
Japanese futons are usually stored beds.
Japanese Futons in a closet, but must be left to air
in the sunlight when not put away. Western futons are common now in
Measuring two inches (5 cm) These futons are typically beaten with Japan. These futons, hand-made, have
thick and filled with cotton and/or bamboo to keep them in shape. no synthetic filling; they are stuffed
synthetic batting, Japanese futons primarily with cotton. Western futons
are typically flat and are designed Western Futons in Japan are sold as “earth-friendly,”
to be spread out on tatami flooring, and are not composed of any
which is a special kind of flooring Western futons are closer to chemicals whatsoever, distinguishing
indigenous to Japanese architecture. mattresses; they are also stuffed them from the traditional bed set.
with multiple layers of foam and/or
Japanese futons are usually sold batting, but they do not have springs. Futons are otherwise most convenient
in sets consisting of the futon Western futons are placed on an and economical and therefore
mattress (shikibuton), a comforter adjustable frame resembling that preferable to people on-the-go or
(kakebuton) or blanket (moku), a of a couch, and are designed in the living in small spaces. They’re not
summer towel-like blanket (towelket), fashion of a sofa-bed—to be used as only for the Japanese anymore!
A Clear View On Vinyl
Window Options
Windows are an investment in your but don’t get overwhelmed. Know styles, including single- and double-
home’s real estate value. your facts and work with a qualified hung, horizontal sliding, casement,
contractor so you can be prepared architectural shapes and more,
They add style- both indoors and out. for your next window replacement even custom shapes and those with
But old, leaky windows can also add project. decorative glass.
to home heating and cooling costs by
as much as 30 to 40 percent. One of today’s most popular and For energy conscious consumers,
versatile window materials is vinyl. vinyl is hard to beat. As an example,
And with energy costs inching Compared to wood or aluminum, CertainTeed vinyl windows with
upward, windows are getting more vinyl windows are virtually Thermaflect® low “E” glazing system
attention than ever. maintenance free and long lasting. help keep homes cooler in summer
and warmer in winter.
Windows come in many shapes, Pioneered by CertainTeed in the
sizes and styles and are made from a 1970s, millions have been installed In fact, these windows can reduce
variety of materials. and the demand continues to grow. heating and cooling costs by as much
as 15 percent each year and come
Choosing appropriate windows for Advanced manufacturing techniques with the Environmental Protection
your home is a significant decision, shape vinyl windows into different Agency’s Energy Star rating.
