Wood panels have become a timeless design element in both residential and commercial spaces. Their versatility, warmth, and natural aesthetic make them a perfect fit for various interior styles, from classic to contemporary. But what happens when you combine wood panels with other materials? The results can be stunning, creating depth, texture, and contrast that elevate any room. In this blog post, we will explore creative ways to combine wood panels with other materials for a sophisticated, cohesive look. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional, this guide will offer actionable tips to enhance your design projects.

Why Combine Wood Panels with Other Materials?

Wood panels have their own unique charm, but when paired with other materials, they can transform a room into something extraordinary. Here are a few reasons why mixing materials is beneficial:

1. Adds Visual Interest: Combining different textures and materials keeps a space from feeling flat. The contrast between wood and materials like metal or stone adds dimension to your design.
2. Enhances Functionality: Certain materials bring additional benefits, such as moisture resistance, durability, or soundproofing. For example, wood panels paired with glass can maintain a sleek, modern feel without losing the acoustic benefits of wood.
3. Increases Customization: Mixing materials offers more room for customization. You can tailor a room’s style to your specific tastes by playing with textures, finishes, and patterns.

Best Material Pairings with Wood Panels

1. Wood Panels and Metal: A Modern Contrast

One of the most popular ways to combine wood panels with another material is pairing them with metal. The warmth of wood contrasts beautifully with the sleek, industrial feel of metal elements like stainless steel, copper, or brass. This pairing works particularly well in modern or industrial design settings.

• Applications:
  • Use metal trims along the edges of wood panels to create clean lines.
  • Combine metal light fixtures with wood-paneled walls for a contemporary, urban vibe.
  • Incorporate metal shelving against wood panels in kitchens or offices.
• Best for: Modern homes, urban lofts, and industrial-themed spaces.

2. Wood Panels and Stone: Natural Elegance

For a more rustic or earthy look, combine wood panels with stone. The natural textures of wood and stone complement each other, creating a cozy yet luxurious environment. This combination is perfect for spaces where you want to emphasize natural materials and create a grounding atmosphere.

• Applications:
  • Install stone fireplaces framed by wood paneling.
  • Pair stone flooring with wood-paneled walls in entryways or kitchens.
  • Use stacked stone behind wood panels to create a feature wall.
• Best for: Country homes, rustic lodges, or nature-inspired interiors.

How to Integrate Wood Panels with Textiles for a Soft Touch

Another intriguing way to combine wood panels is by integrating textiles into the design. Soft furnishings like upholstered furniture, area rugs, and even fabric wall art contrast nicely with the hard surface of wood, bringing warmth and comfort to the room.

• Applications:
  • Use fabric-backed panels to improve the acoustics of a room while adding a layer of texture.
  • Pair wood-paneled walls with plush rugs and soft sofas for a cozy, inviting space.
  • Consider using woven tapestries as wall hangings next to wood panels for added depth.
• Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms, and media rooms where comfort is key.

Tips for Blending Wood Panels with Glass

Glass is another excellent material to pair with wood panels. This combination works exceptionally well in modern, minimalist designs where the goal is to create an open, airy space. The transparency of glass allows wood panels to stand out while still maintaining a light, clean aesthetic.

• Applications:
  • Combine glass and wood partitions in open-plan offices or homes to create separate areas while maintaining the flow of natural light.
  • Use glass doors or windows framed by wood panels to create a seamless indoor-outdoor transition.
  • Glass tabletops paired with wood-paneled walls create a striking modern dining area.
• Best for: Open spaces, modern homes, and minimalist interiors.

How to Mix Wood Panels and Concrete for an Industrial Edge

For those who prefer a bold, industrial look, combine wood panels with concrete. The cool, raw texture of concrete contrasts sharply with the warmth of wood, making it an ideal pairing for anyone seeking a unique, contemporary design.

• Applications:
  • Install concrete floors with wood-paneled walls to create an industrial-chic living room.
  • Combine concrete kitchen countertops with wood panels for a sleek, functional kitchen space.
  • Use concrete elements like planters or sculptures to complement wood-paneled walls in outdoor spaces.
• Best for: Industrial-themed homes, modern apartments, and outdoor living areas.

FAQ Section

1. What are the best materials to pair with wood panels for a modern look?

For a modern look, metal and glass are excellent choices to pair with wood panels. The sleek, shiny finish of metal and the transparency of glass create a contemporary, minimalist vibe.

• Can I combine wood panels with other materials in a small space?

Yes! In smaller spaces, focus on lighter materials like glass and metals with reflective qualities. This can make the space feel larger and more open.

• How do wood panels improve the acoustics of a room?

Wood panels, especially when paired with acoustic felt, can significantly dampen sound, making them a great choice for home offices or entertainment rooms.

• What’s the easiest way to combine wood panels with other materials in a DIY project?

Start with simple pairings like wood and metal trims or glass panels. These are easy to install and make a big impact without complicated construction.

• Can I use wood panels outdoors?

Yes, there are outdoor-friendly wood panel options, such as Wood-Plastic Composite (WPC) siding, which is designed to withstand the elements.

Conclusion

Combining wood panels with other materials opens up endless design possibilities, allowing you to create spaces that are both functional and stylish. By mixing wood with metal, stone, textiles, glass, or concrete, you can achieve a variety of looks, from modern and sleek to rustic and cozy. Whether you’re working on a small DIY project or a large professional installation, the key is to balance textures and materials to enhance the overall aesthetic of your space.

This is the year you’re going all out. You’re going to develop a deck, include an outdoor kitchen, put up a gazebo or lay a patio area. You’ve done the research study. It’s well within your capability and you’re looking forward to the satisfaction of creating a structure of charm.

Or not. Yes– you ‘d like to continue with an outdoor structure but for you, it isn’t a do-it-yourself job. How can you discover the best individual to do it for you? Here are 10 pointers for hiring and working with a contractor.

1. Plan your job carefully. Clip images, make sketches, compose a description. This will help you precisely communicate to the contractor what you want the finished item to be.

2. Make a list of contractors. Ask your neighbors or friends for the names of respectable tradesmen. Contact product suppliers– lumberyards, for instance– and request recommendations.

3. Get at least 3 written quotes for the project, but don’t succumb to the temptation to automatically accept the lowest bid. A greater quote may deserve the cost in much better materials, workmanship and reliability. If you get a really low bid, the contractor might have made a mistake or forgotten to bid on everything you desired. If they have intentionally low-bid, they may use cheaper materials or take faster ways to make a profit.

4. Click on Verify Contractors License. If licences are needed in your jurisdiction, be certain to ask to see your specialist’s licences and be sure that it’s not expired.

5. Request references and then examine them. Take a look at the projects and ask the previous clients if they are satisfied with the quality of work done, if it was begun and completed on schedule and if it is complete.

6. Get a signed, documented agreement and make sure you understand it. The Construction Contractors Board of California claims that the single biggest cause of homeowner-contractor conflicts is the documented agreement: not having one, having a bad one, or having one that everybody overlooks. A good contract ought to consist of: The company name, address (not a post workplace box) & phone number, the name of the professional, licence and builder number, if relevant An in-depth project

description A materials list A declaration that all necessary licenses and assessments are the obligation of the specialist Beginning and completion dates Warranties of craftsmanship, the length of the warranty, and particularly what’s covered and what’s not Professional’s warranty that he carries liability insurance coverage and worker’s compensation coverage

A declaration that clean-up will be done by the professional The overall cost and payment schedule Watch out for hourly, time and products or cost-plus prices where the last rate is not figured out up until completion of the job. Although it might seem higher, a fixed cost might give you the very best defense and price. Beware about in advance payments for more than 15% of the agreement price. The schedule and criteria for each instalment must be clearly defined in the agreement. Any instalments need to be not be needed on a specific date, but associated to work completion. Do not pay cash. A respectable builder will request for a check.

7. Make any changes to the task in writing with a “work order change” to prevent misconceptions and surprises.

8. Keep pets and children away from the building website. In addition, it helps keep the job on schedule.

9. Examine the work routinely.

10. Pay the actual person owed and promptly according to the contract.

Above all, you ought to feel comfy communicating with your professional. It won’t get any better during the building and construction period if you sense he is being evasive when you are getting a quote. Discover somebody you understand and who comprehends you, and who is open and forthright.

For a commercial construction project, this general contractor is excellent for these type of services:

structural roof repair services

emergency shoring services

orange county earthquake retrofit

Dealing with a professional takes a little preparation, but following these actions is well worth it. Are you looking forward to your new outdoor area?

Firstly, it provides a steady and dependable water supply, reducing disruptions caused by sudden tank failures. 

In addition, prolonging the tank’s life reduces the environmental impact by limiting the need for frequent replacements, thus conserving resources and cutting down on waste. 

Additionally, it results in considerable financial benefits, as you avoid the cost of replacing water tank entirely. Furthermore, maintaining your tank’s life improves water quality by avoiding contamination that can occur when tanks degrade. To make sure it serves you well for years to come, it’s essential to maintain your cold water tank.  Speak direct here Titan Mechanical.

In this post, we’ll share six useful tips on how to prolong the life of your cold water tank. 

Tip 1 – Regular Visual Inspections 

The key to a durable water tank starts with regular visual inspections. Conduct routine checks to spot any signs of wear, corrosion or leaks. Check for cracks, rust, or loose fittings and fix these issues promptly to prevent further damage. Additionally, check the tank’s foundation is stable and solid, as an unstable base can lead to structural problems over time. 

Tip Two – Insulating Your Water Tank 

Adding insulation to your cold water tank is an easy way to reduce heat loss and reduce energy consumption, especially if it’s placed in an unheated space like an attic or basement. Adding insulation helps maintain a consistent water temperature, lowering the workload on your tank’s components and working to prolong your tank’s life. You can use specially designed tank jackets or blankets for insulation, or have our team to carry out this job professionally. 

Tip Three – Cleaning and Disinfecting 

Regular cleaning is just as crucial to stop sediment build-up, which can decrease the tank’s storage capacity and promote bacterial growth. Maintaining your tank at least once a year is recommended and is a key aspect of your water tank maintenance. This service could be carried out by our expert team, where we’ll provide you a comprehensive disinfection certificate and your own photographic completion report. 

Tip Four – Water Quality Monitoring 

Water quality can greatly affect on the lifespan of your water tank. If your water supply contains a lot of minerals or impurities, it can lead to scaling and sediment build-up inside the tank. Routinely test the quality of the water stored in the tank. This will allow you to identify any issues early, such as bacterial contamination or changes in chemical composition. 

Tip Five – Water Pressure Control 

High water pressure can damage your cold water tank and water system, causing leaks and unexpected failure. Install a pressure regulator to make sure that the water pressure entering your tank is within safe limits. Regularly check and tune the regulator as necessary to keep the safe pressure. 

Tip 6 – Reline Your Cold Water Tank 

In some cases, if you’re dealing with an older cold water tank with damaged or damaged interior surfaces, relining might be a good option. Relining means installing a new, protective lining to the inside of the tank. This lining will help stop further corrosion, leaks and prolong the total lifespan of the tank. That being said, relining should be performed by a professional like us and is commonly considered when other maintenance and repair options aren’t sufficient. 

We offer all our customers a decade-long guarantee for this service and are equipped with over 12 years of experience working with water tanks throughout the United Kingdom. For more info go here

Find out more

Gordy Roofing Company’s Tips for Choosing a Durable Home Roof

A well-built roof is one of the most critical components of your home’s longevity. Choosing the right roof is an important decision, as it will impact both the style and resilience of your house. With numerous Roofing choices available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Gordy Roofing’s experienced team can guide you in selecting the perfect roof for your home. In this article, we’ll explore the most important factors to consider when selecting the right roof for your home with Gordy Roofing Company.

1. Why Your Home’s Style Influences Roof Selection

The first thing when choosing the right roof is how your roof complements your house’s design. The professionals at Gordy Roofing will help you select a roof that enhances your home’s design.

An example of this is, a traditional home might look best with classic asphalt shingles. Certain roofing materials suit specific styles based on the design of your property. Gordy Roofing’s experts can ensure that the roof you decide on not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but also adds value to your home.

2. How Weather Impacts Your Roof Choice

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a roof is the strength and longevity of the material. The team at Gordy Roofing provides a range of durable roofing materials that can handle your area’s specific climate.

For example, for homes located in high wind zones, metal roofing or slate may be the best option. For areas with intense sunlight and heat, lighter-colored roofing or reflective materials can help keep your home cooler. Gordy Roofing’s specialists will assist you in selecting the most durable roof for your specific weather conditions.

3. How Your Roof Affects Energy Efficiency

energy efficiency is a growing priority for homeowners, and the type of roof you install can have a big effect on your heating and cooling costs. Gordy Roofing Company offers energy-efficient roofing Solutions that will keep your home’s energy costs in check.

For example, metal roofing with reflective coatings can help keep your home cooler in the summer. For homes in colder areas, roofing options with high insulation values will keep warmth inside, reducing your heating bills. The team at Gordy Roofing can help you determine the right roofing solution to maximize your home’s energy efficiency.

4. Budget and Cost Considerations

Your budget is an important consideration when choosing a new roof. The professionals at Gordy Roofing has roofing solutions for every budget, helping you get the best roof for your budget.

One affordable option, traditional asphalt shingles provide reliable protection at a reasonable price, and premium materials like metal, tile, or slate provide superior longevity and style. Gordy Roofing’s team will help you navigate your options that works within your price range while guaranteeing your home’s protection.

5. Professional Installation and Warranty

After selecting the perfect roof for your home, ensuring proper installation is critical for long-term performance. Gordy Roofing provides expert installation, ensuring your roof is installed correctly.

On top of professional installation, you’ll receive a full warranty on your new roof, ensuring your roof investment is protected. If any problems arise, you’ll have the warranty to cover repairs, ensuring you’re never left vulnerable.

Overall, deciding on the best roof is a crucial step for your property’s long-term value. With the help of Gordy Roofing Company, you can find the best roofing option for your design, durability, and budget needs.

The media in the U.S. is reporting that possible legislation from the House of Representatives could potentially cut Social Security benefits, but, that may not be the full story.

The legislation that the House is looking to pass is bill H.R.5779 – Fiscal Commission Act of 2023.

The Fiscal Commission Act of 2023 is calling for the creation of a 4 person commission that will design a pathway to a balanced budget “at the earliest reasonable date.”

The requirements of this commission will be to “stabilize the debt-to-GDP ratio at or below 100% by the end of the 10-year period”.

As of the 3^rd Quarter of 2023, according to the St. Louis Federal Reserve that U.S. debt-to-GDP is at 120.13%. Meaning that the U.S. is spending well more than what it is taking in.

Is the Fiscal Commission going to be all Republicans?

The construction of the commission, according to the bill, will consist of “3 individuals from among the members of the Senate, and 1 outside expert”.

The Senate Majority Leader, Charles (Chuck) Schumer, will have the responsibility of selecting all members of the commission.

Yes, this is a Republican bill, but the power and control this bill will create will reside within the confines of the Senate Majority Leader and only that person, which until the next election is going to be a Democrat.

Will this commission begin cutting Social Security benefits?

There is nothing specific within the Act to Social Security nor is there any mention of cuts, cutting or even the word cut throughout the entire bill.

Again, the bill from the House is simply requesting that the Senate Majority Leader hand select 4 individuals to devise a plan on how to bring down the country’s debt.

Are Social Security benefits going to be cut?

According to the Social Security Board of Trustees (SSBT), the Social Security program has enough funding to continue benefits as they are today through at least 2034.

However, the Trustee are also reporting that the program’s operating expenses will increase by 5.42% annually while the payroll tax revenue to fund it will only grow by 3.80% over the next 9 years.

Coupling this issue is the demographics within the United States as the Trustees are also stating that the country’s fertility rate will only be 1.99% going forward.

This means that the current Social Security program is in the death spiral of having more and more people aging into the program while less and less people are taking their place to fund the benefits.

Eventually, when it comes to the Social Security benefits, something has to give as it appears that there just won’t be enough revenue from taxes to continue to paying out the same amounts when it comes to benefits.

But, again, there is nothing in this bill that even suggests that Congress will be cutting Social Security benefits.

IRMAA may be able save the Social Security program.

By law Social Security benefits automatically pay Medicare premiums on a monthly basis.

Medicare also has a tax on income through Medicare’s Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA).

IRMAA is simply a surcharge that is added to a retiree’s Part B and or Part D premium if they are earning too much income.

Currently, you have to qualify for IRMAA by generating $103, 000 in income a year if you are an individual and $206, 000 for couples.

The more income you generate after these initial qualifying points the higher the chances that your Medicare premiums increase even higher.

Saving the Social Security program or at least lowering the obligations of the program can literally just come down to changing the IRMAA qualifications.

You may have heard by now that there are proposed cuts to social Security and are not sure if this true or not, well, unfortunately, it is actually true.

Social Security is in trouble.

Before diving into the who’s and what’s of these proposed cuts to Social Security it must be stated that something needs to be done really soon as the program is in big trouble on paper.

Since 2018 the part of the Social Security program that provides Retirement benefits (OASI) is and will be running at a loss each and every year.

This means that the amount of benefits that the OASI is providing to retirees is greater than the amount of money that the program brings in.

To provide some clarity on this huuuuge problem:

In 2018, according to the Trustees of Social Security:

• The total cost to provide benefits within the OASI program = $853.4 million.
• Total revenue for that year = $831.0 million.

There is an obvious shortfall of $22 million and the problem is not getting better, in fact the gap between benefits verse revenue is widening.

By 2022, according to the Trustees, the problem became:

• The total cost to provide benefits within the OASI program =. $1, 097.5 billion
• Total revenue for the year = $1, 056.7 billion.

The shortfall grew to $40.8 million in just 4 years and, again, the problem is growing larger annually.

The Trustees of Social Security, in its 2023 Annual Report, is reporting that:

1. The costs to run the program are going to inflate by over 6.40%
2. The revenue to provide benefits is only going to grow by 4.90%.

At these rates by 2032 the shortfall for the OASI part of Social Security will be $428.3 billion!

This is why the media is reporting that by 2032 the Social Security program may become insolvent.

What are the current proposed cuts to Social Security?

The Social Security Administration has 9 proposals for cuts to the program which all begin by the end of 2024 and they are:

1st Proposal: Reduce the annual COLA by 1 percentage point.

• This option will decrease Social Security benefits for retirees.

2nd Proposal: Reduce the annual COLA by 0.5 percentage point.

• Like Option #1, this proposal will decrease Social Security benefits for retirees. The only difference is the decrease will be half of Option #1.

3rd Proposal: Compute the COLA using a chained version of the consumer price index for wage and salary workers (CPI-W).

• The Social Security cost of living adjustment (COLA) uses the 3^rd Quarter monthly averages of the Consumer Price Index for Workers (CPI-W).
• Social Security takes the averages of these 3 months in the 3^rd Quarter and compares them to the previous year’s 3^rd Quarter.
• If the average is greater than the previous year, then there will be a COLA for those receiving benefits.
• Chained Weighted CPI-W is a more accurate average where certain averages are disregarded if they are not in the norm.
• This proposal will decrease benefits going forward.

4th Proposal: Compute the COLA using a chained version of the consumer price index for wage and salary workers (CPI-W) but start it in 2026 instead of 2024.

• This proposal will decrease Social Security benefits for retirees, but will start 2 years later.

5th Proposal: Add 1 percentage point to the annual COLA for beneficiaries who have lived past a “specified age”.

• It appears that only certain retirees who are a certain age and older will receive a COLA going forward.
• This proposal may lower benefits across the board for retirees, but the good news, those retirees who reach the specific age may receive a COLA that would be higher than before.

6th Proposal: Compute the COLA using the Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E).

• The CPI-E tracks the expenses specifically for Americans who are 62 years of age or older.
• Historically this Index is much lower than what the Social Security Administration uses and may lead to lower Social Security benefits for retirees.

The Italian carmaker Alfa Romeo, famous for its stylish design and thrilling performance, has emerged as a popular automaker among auto enthusiasts. For individuals who aspire to drive an Alfa Romeo but are not ready to commit to purchasing one, leasing provides a compelling alternative. This write-up will examine the available leasing deals for Alfa Romeo vehicles, providing a comprehensive insight of the advantages, choices, and important aspects. Find some of the best on this site.

Summary of Alfa Romeo Leasing Offers

• Benefits of leasing an Alfa Romeo
• Current leasing deals and promotions
• Popular models to lease
• Leasing terms and conditions
• Choosing the best lease deal

Benefits of Leasing an Alfa Romeo

Choosing to lease an Alfa Romeo offers multiple benefits. You can not only enjoy the latest models with modern features and gadgets, but they also take advantage of more affordable monthly payments in contrast to buying. Leases generally come with warranty coverage, cutting down on personal expenses for fixes and maintenance. Additionally, at the end of the lease term, lessees have the ability to switch to a new car without the trouble of disposing of their car.

Current Leasing Deals and Promotions

Alfa Romeo regularly has enticing lease promotions to make their automobiles more affordable. These promotions often include low monthly payments, minimal down payments, and extra incentives for loyal customers or those moving from another Brand. For example, the Spring Leasing Event by Alfa Romeo may feature exclusive rates on popular models like the Giulia sedan and Stelvio vehicle, making it an ideal time to explore leasing options.

Key Models Available for Lease

Several Alfa Romeo models are available for lease, each delivering a special combination of performance, style, and luxury. Here are some of the standout options:

Giulia by Alfa Romeo

The Giulia sedan is a dynamic sedan that merges stylish design with exhilarating performance. It boasts a powerful turbo engine, advanced safety systems, and a plush interior, making it a popular choice for leasing.

Stelvio by Alfa Romeo

The Stelvio SUV is a dynamic SUV that blends SUV versatility with sports car handling. It features a range of high-tech features and a spacious, upscale cabin.

4C Spider by Alfa Romeo

For individuals wanting a unique driving experience, the 4C convertible is a sporty convertible that offers thrilling speed and control, paired with Alfa Romeo’s signature Italian style.

Lease Agreement Details

When thinking about leasing an Alfa Romeo, it is crucial to know the contract details. Leasing contracts often cover 24 to 36 months, with annual mileage restrictions that can change. Going over these limits can incur extra charges. Lessees are also obligated to maintain the automobile properly, and any noticeable deterioration could result in additional fees. It’s essential to review the lease contract meticulously and address any issues with the leasing agent to guarantee a hassle-free lease process.

Picking the Ideal Lease Deal

Selecting the right leasing option requires evaluating your driving patterns, budget, and needs. Think about the yearly mileage you anticipate and select a lease with the right mileage allowance. Consider the overall lease cost, covering the down payment, monthly rates, and possible end-of-lease charges. Additionally, consider the car features and specs that matter most to you, guaranteeing the selected model fits your life and driving habits.

Leasing provides a fantastic opportunity to experience Alfa Romeo’s performance and luxury without the extended commitment of buying. By knowing the pros, present deals, and main points, you can choose wisely and experience an Alfa Romeo with certainty.

No one wants to be a victim of fraud. Unfortunately, criminal scammers are continuously evolving their tactics and technology to find new ways to commit fraud. Recently, we’ve been getting reports from our members at Canopy Credit Union that scammers have been targeting some of them by spoofing Canopy’s main phone number and pretending to be representatives of Canopy. These scammers are taking advantage of the trust our members have when they see our phone number flash on their caller IDs, with no way to tell that it’s a fake number. The scammers are using information they’ve gleaned about the members they are contacting, which can include names, addresses and other details, in order to convince the members to give them additional sensitive data, such as login information, account numbers, social Security numbers, or card numbers.

Your Security is Our Top Priority

Canopy takes all security risks seriously and treats all threats with the highest priority. We want our members to know that we will never ask for personal details over the phone or through e-mail communications. If someone reaches out to you and requests information that feels suspicious, such as your account password, social security number, credit or debit card details, or accounts numbers, hang up immediately. Reach out to us afterwards with a phone call to 509.328.2900 or through the secure online chat at canopycu.com. Actual representatives from Canopy will never ask you for this kind of information over the phone. 

HOW TO TELL IF IT’S REALLY US

When a representative from Canopy is legitimately reaches out to a member because of a suspicious transaction alert, we provide you with the exact merchant the transaction was charged from, the date the purchase took place, and amount of the transaction in question. If it turns out that the transaction is the result of fraud, we will ask if the address we have on file for you is the correct one to send a new card out to, and we will state the address in full, checking with you only if it needs to be updated.

As always, if a member does not feel comfortable communicating over the phone, we applaud them for being cautious. With so many scammers learning more and more about everyone through data breaches on the dark web, it is always better to be safe than sorry. If for any reason you feel unsure about a phone call that appears to be from Canopy, hang up and call us back or come into a branch to speak with a member of our team in person. 

FRAUDSTERS USE YOUR INFORMATION TO SOUND LEGITIMATE

To make themselves sound more legitimate, fraudsters are giving fake case numbers, names, and asking members to call them back on a different line than Canopy’s. If you receive a voicemail message asking you to call back on a number that is not Canopy’s main phone line of 509.328.2900, treat it with suspicion and call us directly instead.

To minimize the chances of becoming a target for fraudsters, it’s important that you are diligent about where and how often you share sensitive information on the web. Fraudsters work full time obtaining as much information about their targets as they can before reaching out to them. They look for addresses, family tree information, search through social media, and gather data from the dark web released in data breaches. When they have a list of targets, they research which financial institutions their targets may belong to and reach out to them, pretending to be from one of their trusted banks or credit unions. 

What You Can Do to Protect Yourself

One of the best things members can do to protect their sensitive data is sign up for a service that scans for their information on the dark web and will alert them to take action when it’s found. At Canopy we offer this service through Norton LifeLock for free when our members obtain one of our credit cards, but even then, members need to be wary of scammers impersonating Norton as well.

Canopy is always striving to provide the highest level of security possible for our members. Even so, it’s vital that our members remain vigilant and alert regarding any suspicious callers or e-mailers requesting any specific information about accounts or personal identity. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the security of any of your accounts or information at Canopy, please feel free to reach out to us by phone, chat, or by stopping into to any of our branches.

Canopy Credit Union

International Timber softwood is renowned in the construction and interior design industries for its flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and inherent beauty. Its broad application across numerous Building projects demonstrates its ability to meet the varied needs of developers, designers, and homeowners.

International Timber provides an extensive selection of softwood species, from the light shades of Pine to the rich tones of Cedar, offering a range of options that cater to different aesthetic preferences and functional requirements. Each species possesses unique traits that enhance both the look and practicality of any endeavor.

A principal advantage of International Timber softwood is its ease of use. Due to its lighter density and consistent grain, softwood is particularly manageable, making it ideal for detailed construction tasks. It is especially useful for projects that demand precision and adaptability, such as structural frameworks, external paneling, or intricate joinery, positioning it as a top choice for both effective and economical building efforts.

Despite being softer than hardwood, International Timber softwood stands strong in terms of durability and structural integrity. With appropriate treatment, it can withstand wear and environmental elements, maintaining its quality and extending its lifespan.

The aesthetic appeal of softwood cannot be overlooked. Its natural grain patterns and varied hues bring a warm and inviting feel to spaces, enhancing them with a natural charm. This versatility makes softwood suitable for a range of design themes, from indoor décor to outdoor finishes and landscaping projects.

Sustainability is also a key consideration in choosing International Timber softwood. Harvested with a commitment to environmental stewardship, softwood promotes forest regeneration and reduces ecological impact, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.

In summary, International Timber softwood exemplifies the lasting value and versatility of natural materials in the realms of building and design. Known for its adaptability, affordability, and environmental friendliness, softwood remains a favored choice for projects that seek to marry aesthetic grace with practical functionality. Whether employed in foundational structures, decorative features, or naturalistic outdoor environments, softwood makes a lasting impact with its timeless charm. For more information, please visit

International Timber

Ever wondered why some numbers in finance seem to shift every year? The OASDI limit for 2023 is one such figure that’s crucial yet often misunderstood. For those scratching their heads, OASDI stands for Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability insurance – essentially social Security. This year brings a fresh twist you’ll definitely want to get cozy with.

The OASDI limit marks the ceiling of your earnings taxed for Social Security purposes. Understanding this number is more than just ticking a box for the sake of it; it’s about smartly mapping out your financial journey ahead. In the same way you manage your credit cards to optimize credit health, understanding the OASDI limit helps optimize your financial health.

Understanding the Social Security Tax Limit 2023

The limit on Social Security tax isn’t something to shrug off. It’s the maximum amount of your earnings that are subject to the Social Security tax each year.

That limit is $160,200. A nice chunk of change, right?

What Is the Social Security Tax Limit?

Let’s break it down. If your earnings hit that $160,200 cap, you’ll pay a maximum of $9,932.40 in Social Security taxes for the year. Your employer will kick in the same amount, for a total of $19,864.80 paid into the system on your behalf.

But if you’re self-employed, you’re on the hook for the whole enchilada – 12.4% of your earnings up to that $160,200 limit. The silver lining? You get to deduct half of that amount on your tax return. Every cloud, my friend. This is akin to how wisely managing your credit can lead to significant savings over time.

Now, let’s say you’re an overachiever and earn more than $160,200. Congrats. But here’s the thing: you don’t pay Social Security taxes on anything over that amount. It’s like hitting the jackpot, tax-wise.

How the Increase Affects Payroll Taxes

So, how does this compare to last year? In 2022, the Social Security tax limit was $147,000. That means the limit jumped by $13,200 for 2023. Not too shabby.

But wait, there’s more. If you’re a high earner, you could pay up to $818 more in Social Security taxes this year compared to 2022. It’s all thanks to that increase in the wage base limit.

So, what does this mean for your paycheck? If you earn $160,200 or more, you’ll see 6.2% taken out for Social Security taxes until you hit that magic number. Then, poof. No more Social Security tax withholdings for the rest of the year. It’s like a little bonus, right? Much like how responsibly using credit cards for monthly expenses can help manage cash flow effectively.

Changes in Social Security Benefits in 2023

Now, let’s talk about the fun part: Social Security benefits. Benefits are getting a boost.

Thanks to a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), benefits will increase by 8.7%. That’s the biggest jump since 1981. It’s like giving your monthly check a caffeine boost.

Retirement Earnings Test Thresholds for 2023

But wait, there’s a catch. If you’re under your full retirement age and still working, the retirement earnings test comes into play. This quiz is all about figuring out if earning a bit more cash will mean your benefits take a hit.

The earnings limit is $21,240 per year or $1,770 per month for those under full retirement age. If you hit that limit, your benefits will be reduced by $1 for every $2 you earn over the threshold. Ouch.

But once you reach full retirement age, the earnings test disappears like magic. Poof. You can earn as much as you want without any reduction in benefits. It’s like hitting the retirement jackpot. Similar to how managing credit effectively can increase your purchasing power over time.