Month: January 2025

Why Landscaping Matters for Homes and Businesses

Keiran Price

Greensboro Landscaping is a great way to add value to your property. It can also improve your quality of life by providing a relaxing place to spend time.

Landscaping

Texture is a crucial element in landscape design. Different textures create contrast and visual interest. High-quality materials like premium mulch and compost cost more upfront, but they last longer than standard options.

A well-maintained, professionally landscaped property can significantly increase your home’s value. Studies have shown that homes with lush, luxurious landscaping sell faster and for a higher price than those without. This is especially true for properties in suburban areas, where the visual appeal of a community plays an important role in determining property values.

In addition, a landscape that features plants that change with the seasons can add year-round visual interest to your yard, making it more appealing to potential buyers. A landscape design that includes trees, shrubs, and flowers that bloom in spring, summer, fall, and winter will ensure that your home looks beautiful throughout the year, adding to its overall curb appeal.

Landscaping can also help reduce your energy costs by providing shade in the summer and reducing the need for air conditioning. A study conducted by Virginia Tech Horticulturist Alex Niemierski found that a properly maintained landscaping can give real estate properties a 15 percent boost in value. The amount of increase depends on the size, type, and design of the landscaping.

The exterior of your home is the first thing that potential buyers will see, and it’s important to make a good impression. Landscaping and outdoor living spaces, like patios and decks, can make your home stand out from the competition and attract buyers.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that over-improving your property could backfire and deter potential buyers. This is particularly true if your yard is over-cluttered or unorganized. In addition, too many hardscape features may impart an industrial ambiance to your yard and detract from its overall value.

Landscaping and outdoor living spaces are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners, and they can greatly increase your home’s value. In fact, the American Society of Landscape Architects recommends spending 10 percent of your home’s value on landscaping projects.

In addition, there are many low-cost DIY projects that you can undertake to improve your outdoor space. For example, mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, edging garden beds, and adding mulch are inexpensive ways to upgrade your landscaping. Adding lighting to your landscape can also be an affordable and effective way to increase your property’s value.

Enhancing the Aesthetics of Your Home

As the first thing potential buyers see, your landscape plays a critical role in creating a positive first impression. Lush lawns, vibrant flowers, and neatly trimmed shrubbery all contribute to your home’s aesthetic appeal. But this isn’t the only reason you should invest in landscaping; a well-designed landscape also elevates property value, attracts wildlife, and provides other important benefits.

Landscaping can include both hard materials and soft materials, such as wood, stone, brick, and gravel. Different textures create visual interest and add a touch of elegance to your landscape. They can also be used to draw attention to a focal point or highlight an architectural feature on your home. For example, using a combination of plants and hardscape elements to frame an entryway or window can give your home a more polished look.

When choosing the types of plants and flowers to include in your landscape, consider color, size, and shape. Aim for a balanced, harmonious design. Choose plants that thrive in your climate and soil conditions and are appropriate for the sun/shade and moisture levels in your yard. Properly planting and watering your plants will help them maintain their beauty and vitality.

The right trees and bushes can serve as a natural privacy barrier and reduce noise pollution from nearby roads or neighbors. They can also protect you from the sun and wind, and reduce energy costs by providing shade and lowering air temperatures. Lastly, the right plants can enhance your outdoor living space by attracting pollinators and promoting biodiversity.

The right mix of hardscaping and softscaping can make your property feel like a tranquil oasis. You can use patios, decks, pergolas, and trellises to provide a comfortable space for relaxing or entertaining, and you can incorporate a variety of flowering and evergreen plants to offer year-round color and texture. In addition, you can use permeable paving materials to reduce erosion and manage stormwater runoff. Ultimately, you can improve your quality of life by reducing stress and improving mental health with the therapeutic effects of nature. Moreover, spending time in your yard will encourage you to exercise and get outdoors more often, which has numerous health benefits.

Enhancing the Functionality of Your Outdoor Space

Landscaping doesn’t just improve the look of your property; it can also provide a range of functional benefits. For example, a well-designed outdoor space can help reduce stress levels and promote mental health. In addition, spending time in green spaces can increase vitamin D intake, which is important for a healthy immune system. Moreover, landscaping can make your home more energy efficient by reducing the need for air conditioning.

In addition, plants and trees can act as natural air filters by removing carbon dioxide and releasing life-giving oxygen. Furthermore, they can capture dust and smoke particles to create a healthier living environment. Landscaping professionals can design your yard to ensure a balance between nature and the structure of your house, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.

Additionally, hardscape features like pathways and patios can improve the usability of your property by creating distinct areas for dining, entertainment, and recreation. They can even help enhance privacy by separating you from your neighbors or passersby. Furthermore, incorporating native plants into your garden can minimize the use of water, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers.

A well-designed landscape can also mitigate noise pollution from roads or nearby homes by using trees and shrubs to block sound waves. Incorporating drought-resistant species can also help reduce the amount of water used for irrigation and prevent soil erosion.

Lastly, landscaping can add value to your property by enhancing its curb appeal and improving the first impressions of visitors or potential buyers. However, to achieve this, it’s essential to work with a professional landscaping company that has years of experience and a strong understanding of plant selection and installation techniques.

When you choose the right landscapers, you can transform your yard into a beautiful and inviting space that will boost your property’s value and enhance your quality of life. At Whitwell Landscaping, we combine a deep knowledge of local vegetation with creative design and professional construction to create unique outdoor spaces that meet your needs. Contact us today to discover how we can transform your yard into a stunning and thriving oasis.

Enhancing Your Quality of Life

A well-maintained landscape enhances your home and adds value to it. It also helps to improve your quality of life in various ways. From reducing stress to improving your social life, landscaping has many benefits that you can enjoy for years to come.

Landscaping is both art and science, combining design elements with functional features to create an aesthetically pleasing environment. It can range from the simple arrangement of grass and flower beds to constructing outdoor structures such as patios, decks, and pergolas. It can even include a water feature or retaining wall. The practice of landscaping has been around for thousands of years, with evidence of human manipulation of the environment dating back to ancient times.

One of the most important aspects of a landscape is its ability to provide a visual transition between the dwelling and the surrounding natural environment. The goal of landscape design is to strike a balance between nature and the house, making each element appear to be equal in importance. This balance can be achieved by incorporating natural and man-made elements into the landscape, such as plants, trees, paving materials, and fencing.

While the primary reason for landscaping a property is to increase its curb appeal, there are several other benefits as well. For example, the judicious use of flowers and grasses can help to reduce pollution by absorbing dust, smoke, and other harmful substances. Furthermore, the planting of trees and shrubs can help to minimize noise, as they absorb sound and act as a barrier between homes.

Another benefit of landscaping is that it can save you money on your energy bills. The shade provided by trees and plants can keep your home cooler in the summer, reducing the need for air conditioning. In the winter, trees can block wind and reduce heating bills as well.

In addition, landscaping can also enhance your social life by creating areas for entertaining friends and family. For example, a pergola can be used as a comfortable place to relax after work, while outdoor kitchens and fire pits provide an ideal setting for cooking and spending time with loved ones.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Bathroom Remodeling Project

Douglas Vance

When it comes to improving your home’s function and increasing resale value, few projects yield the same return on investment as bathroom remodeling. Consult with experienced remodel professionals to gain valuable insight into achieving your desired results.

There are two main services offered by renovators: build service and design service. Choosing the right contractor can make or break your renovation experience. Visit https://stellarkitchenandbaths.com/ to learn more.

Bathroom Remodeling

A bathroom remodel is an excellent way to boost resale value and create a functional space for your family. However, it can be costly. It’s important to know how much a bathroom renovation costs before you begin, and to set a budget ahead of time. There are many variables to consider, including the size of your bathroom, materials, installation, and more.

The biggest variable in a bathroom remodel is the cost of labor. Labor usually accounts for 40% to 65% of your overall project costs, Johnson says. A DIYer can save some money by taking on the majority of the labor themselves, but it’s often worth hiring a professional to ensure you get the best results and avoid expensive mistakes.

Material costs can also add up quickly. The type and quality of vanity, cabinets, and countertops significantly impact your costs. For example, custom vanities are more expensive than stock models, and granite or quartz countertops require a significant investment. New tile can add up as well. Larger tiles cost more per square foot, and decorative options like mosaic patterns can push the price even higher.

You’ll also want to factor in energy efficiency. Older toilets can use up to 5-7 gallons per flush, but you can save water and money by replacing them with new high-efficiency units. Replacing light fixtures with LED bulbs will also save you money and reduce your energy consumption.

Don’t forget to include any necessary unforeseen expenses in your budget. Plumbing issues, structural repairs, and hidden water damage are common costs that could increase your renovation’s final cost. To help mitigate these costs, perform a thorough inspection before starting your project and consider hiring a professional to check for any potential problems.

A comprehensive remodeling plan and clear communication with your contractors can prevent budget surprises and help you stay on track for a successful bathroom remodel. Ultimately, the benefits of your renovation will far outweigh the initial investment.

Design

A bathroom remodel typically involves replacing old fixtures or introducing new elements into the space. For instance, if you want to replace your tub with a walk-in shower, this is considered a remodel. The goal of a bath remodel is to improve the style and function of the room.

Some homeowners opt for a sleek, modern look, while others prefer classic styles that boost resale value. Others like to introduce pops of color that elevate the style of a bath. In this small bathroom remodel, a DIY mindset allowed the homeowners to transform their space for a fraction of the cost. They used a navy-and-gray damask-print wallpaper on the ceiling, which tied in with the blue floor tiles and accented the new beaded-board wainscoting.

Swapping out textiles is a budget-friendly yet impactful way to upgrade a bathroom. For example, adding hand or bath towels in a designer print or a color that complements the existing tiles can make a big difference to your overall design. In addition, adding lounge seating, such as a bench in a bay window or plush ottomans or stools under floating vanities, can help create a more inviting feel.

Another consideration is your long-term plans for your home. If you plan to sell soon, a renovation may be sufficient. If you plan to live in your home for a long time, a full remodel might be worth the investment. Regardless of your goals, consulting professionals can help you navigate the process and make informed decisions.

Materials

The materials used in your bathroom remodeling project will greatly affect the overall look and feel of your new space. The best materials combine looks with function and durability. From flooring to vanity cabinets, the right materials can create a functional and comfortable room that is easy to keep clean and beautiful.

The first step in choosing the right materials for your remodel is determining what design you want to achieve. Choose a color scheme and design elements that will work well together and reflect your personal style. Consider adding natural elements like a stone sink or a wooden counter to add texture and warmth to your bathroom.

Having the right materials will also help you stay within your budget. While you may be tempted to buy the most expensive materials during your upgrade, it is important to balance costs with quality. The quality of the materials you use will affect how long your bathroom lasts and will have a big impact on the value of your home.

Some of the most popular materials for bathroom remodeling include porcelain, ceramic and glass tile. They are all water resistant and come in a wide range of colors and patterns that will fit any style. Porcelain tile is especially durable, and it can withstand moisture without becoming damaged or deteriorating over time.

Another great material to consider for your bathroom is concrete. This material is naturally water-resistant and can be molded into any shape or design you desire. It is also a very eco-friendly choice.

For countertops, consider granite or quartz. These materials are durable and scratch-resistant. They are also easy to maintain and can withstand heavy use. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider laminate countertops. They are inexpensive and easy to maintain.

It’s also a good idea to invest in waterproof fixtures, such as showerheads and faucets. These will protect your home from mold and mildew, and they will make it easier to clean and maintain your bathroom. In addition, you should also consider installing a vapor barrier to prevent leaks and reduce the risk of water damage.

Installation

The bathroom remodeling process can be lengthy and messy, but it’s important to set clear expectations with your contractor. It’s also crucial to make contingency plans for delays and issues that may arise during the project. Experienced contractors can help you navigate challenges like unexpected discoveries and changes in scope. They’ll also ensure that your project is completed on time and within budget.

Depending on the scope of your project, you may choose to hire a full-service design-build firm or a renovation specialist. Design-build firms offer a seamless transition between design and construction, which reduces timelines and costs. They can also assist you with finding vetted contractors and navigating permitting processes and board approvals, if necessary.

A rip and replace project is simpler than a full-scale renovation, and usually involves removing and replacing existing fixtures, such as vanities, toilets, or showers, without changing the layout. This type of project is typically the least expensive. However, it can take weeks or even months to complete.

Before you begin a rip and replace, you’ll need to remove all items from the bathroom, including personal items, toiletries, towels, and furniture. You’ll also need to empty and clean out the cabinetry, which can be a significant undertaking. If your bathroom is the only one in your home, consider making arrangements to use alternate facilities during the remodeling process.

Once the drywall is removed and all electrical connections are made, it’s time to install the new fixtures. This can be a time-consuming task, especially if you’re installing a large tub. It’s best to plan ahead, and try to schedule a few days or weeks for the installation of your tub, shower, and toilet.

Once the plumbing and electrical are installed, you can finish up the details, such as painting or installing trim. You’ll also want to clean and wipe down the new surfaces to ensure they’re dust-free and ready for use. Lastly, you’ll need to replace any outlet receptacles and light switches, and touch up any caulking or nail holes in the trim. Once the job is done, you can give your wife a bubble bath and celebrate the completion of your remodel!

The Importance of Gutter Cleaning

Margie Pope

Gutter Cleaning is an essential maintenance task that safeguards a home’s foundation and structural integrity. Regular gutter cleaning removes debris, clogs, and standing water to ensure unobstructed flow off the roof and prevents damage.

After a thorough inspection and identifying trouble spots, technicians mount ladders equipped with safety gear to tackle the job. Then, high-powered blowers unleash a powerful airstream that blasts away leaves and twigs while clearing downspouts of any blockages. Visit https://www.stlouisguttercleaningservices.com/ to learn more.

Gutter Cleaning

Gutters seem like an inconspicuous part of a home’s exterior, but they play a vital role in protecting the foundation and structural integrity of a building. Clogged gutters prevent the proper flow of rainwater, which can lead to a number of problems that can be costly to fix.

Rainwater that collects around a building’s foundation can cause settlement and cracks to develop over time. Gutters help prevent this by collecting and redirecting rainwater away from a building’s foundation and landscaping.

The proper flow of rainwater is also important to the health of a house’s roof and structure. Rainwater that isn’t properly channeled can saturate the soil underneath shingles, lifting them and causing wood rot. The water can also seep into basements and crawl spaces, resulting in dampness and mold growth. Gutters that are regularly cleaned prevent this from happening, ensuring that water is properly channeled and preventing moisture damage to the structure of a home.

In addition to the issues listed above, clogged gutters can create the perfect breeding ground for pests like mosquitoes and rodents. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water, and rodents seek shelter in the debris and twigs that clogged gutters can provide. Regular gutter cleaning can keep these pests away from a home, preventing them from creating breeding grounds and posing a risk to the health and safety of household members.

Gutter cleaning is an easy task that can be performed by homeowners, although it’s recommended that they use ladder safety principles, including keeping their body between the side rails and working on level ground. Those that don’t feel comfortable doing this themselves can hire professional gutter cleaners. Regardless of how the job is performed, it’s essential to maintain this maintenance routine to avoid expensive foundation damage and other costly repairs. It’s also a great way to protect a property’s curb appeal and make it look well-maintained and healthy.

Prevents Water Damage

Gutters play a vital role in protecting your property from water damage. When they’re working properly, gutters direct rainwater away from foundations, walls and roofs, preventing soil erosion and basement flooding. However, if your gutters become clogged with debris, they can’t perform their job, and this can lead to water infiltration that causes structural damage. Regular cleaning can help prevent this damage, saving you from costly repairs in the future.

Water infiltration also increases your risk of mold growth. Moist environments encourage the growth of fungus, which can destroy shingles and underlayment, and leak into the house. In addition, leaking water can cause wood damage, rot and staining on the roof and walls of your home. By keeping your gutters clean and free of debris, you can reduce the risk of water infiltration and protect your property from damage caused by mold and fungus.

Gutter cleaning also protects your landscaping and exterior features. If your gutters are clogged, water can overflow and spill onto walkways and driveways, causing them to become eroded and damaged. Additionally, clogged gutters can cause water to back up under the roof, destroying shingles and ceilings.

Clogged gutters can also be a breeding ground for pests, attracting mosquitoes and other insects that can carry harmful diseases. In addition, stagnant water in clogged gutters can become an ideal environment for rodents like squirrels and rats. Gutter cleaning can prevent pest infestation by removing their habitat and keeping water flowing freely.

In addition to protecting your home, gutters can also help protect the environment by reducing the amount of rainwater that flows into streams and rivers. This is important in areas with high rainfall, as too much water can cause flooding and water pollution. Regular maintenance and cleaning can ensure that your gutters are working as they should, directing water away from your home and into the ground where it belongs. Gutter cleaning can also save you money on expensive waterproofing treatments and remediation services. As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Prevents Pest Infestation

Gutters are designed to funnel rainwater away from structures, ensuring their longevity and safeguarding landscapes and foundations. But clogged gutters can cause water-related damage to the roof, foundation, and structure of buildings. In addition, they serve as breeding grounds for pests. Regular gutter cleaning prevents clogs, water overflow, and pest infestation.

Gutter debris – including leaves, twigs, and branches – provides nesting materials for pests like birds, mice, rats, and mosquitoes, which can carry deadly diseases. In addition, clogged gutters decompose to form organic material that supports the growth of fungi, tree seedlings, and weeds. These invasive plants can damage your roof and overtake your landscaping, making them a nuisance. Regular gutter cleaning eliminates these breeding areas and keeps the ecosystem around your property healthy and thriving.

Standing water in clogged gutters serves as a magnet for mosquitoes and other pests, which breed in the stagnant water and spread disease to humans and pets. Regular gutter cleaning removes this breeding ground and discourages pest infestations from developing in your home or office. In addition, you should trim back any bushes or trees that are too close to your building and regularly mow your lawn to eliminate the opportunity for pests to enter your living spaces.

Gutter cleaning is a dirty, time-consuming task that requires the use of ladders and power tools. However, it’s a crucial part of safeguarding your property and improving the aesthetic appeal of your home or business. Professional gutter cleaners have the experience, skillset, and specialized equipment to quickly clean your gutters while eliminating the risk of injury and damage. They’ll also leave your gutters looking like new, saving you the time and money it takes to replace damaged gutters.

The benefits of proper gutter maintenance are endless. Regular cleaning and servicing reduces wear and tear, minimizes blockages, and extends the lifespan of your gutter system. Gutter cleaning also protects your landscaping and foundation, prevents mold growth, and improves the appearance of your property. In addition, hiring professionals to perform this important task ensures that your gutters are free-flowing and properly functioning.

Prevents Mold Growth

Clogged gutters trap water against the roof structure, causing wood rot and lifting of shingles. Water also seeps into basements and crawl spaces, resulting in flooded areas, mold growth and damage to belongings stored in these areas. Regular gutter cleaning prevents overflow and channeling of water away from the house, preventing structural damages as well as protecting contents from mold and mildew.

Gutter cleaning is a messy job that involves climbing and working on ladders, so protective gear is recommended. Rubber-soled shoes are a good choice, as they grip better on the rungs or steps of ladders than sandals. It is best to work with an experienced partner, especially if you are not used to climbing ladders. It is recommended to always wear eye protection, as debris from clogged gutters can be very dangerous. It is also important to follow ladder safety protocol, such as keeping the body between the side rails and working on level ground whenever possible.

Another benefit of regularly cleaning your home’s gutters is that it helps to keep humidity under control. Mold thrives in damp conditions, and mold spores can trigger respiratory issues like chronic coughing or irritated eyes. Keeping the humidity in your home below 50% will starve mold, preventing it from growing and spreading throughout your living spaces.

Preparing for a gutter cleaning ahead of time can also help streamline the process and ensure it is done thoroughly. Clearing out any obstructions or impediments will allow technicians to reach the gutters more easily and efficiently, while marking areas that may have persistent clogs or signs of damage will alert them to pay special attention to these spots during the cleaning process.

Gutter cleaning is a service that every homeowner should consider in order to protect their property, avoid costly repairs and maintain the value of their home. A professional cleaning company provides a comprehensive service, from emptying and rinsing the gutters to cleaning and restoring fascia boards, using high powered water fed pole technology. By regularly cleaning the gutters and preventing clogs, you can help prolong the lifespan of your roof, ensuring it serves you well for years to come.

Natalie Wood Death in 1981

Conrad Blanchard

Natalie Wood Death stunned Hollywood. The coroner’s report concluded she slipped into the dinghy while trying to get in and drowned. However, there is much speculation and innuendo surrounding her death.

Natalie Wood

Co-produced by her younger sister Lana, this documentary delves into her life and her tragic death. It examines new witnesses and reveals attempts by Wagner, Walken and Davern to distance themselves from blame with magazine interviews and books.

Natalie Wood was an American icon. Her acting career took off at a young age, and she worked with legendary directors like John Ford, Elia Kazan and others. Her romantic conquests included Warren Beatty, Richard Gregson and Robert Wagner (her husband at the time of her death). She had two children with Gregson and one with Wagner. She was also an activist, working for civil rights and environmental causes.

Then, in 1981 at the age of 43, she went on a yachting trip off California’s Catalina Island and drowned. For decades, her cause of death was a mystery. But now authorities believe that her death was a homicide.

Investigators say that her body was covered in bruises and a swollen left cheek. They have also uncovered evidence of sexual assault. They are now questioning her ex-husband, actor Robert Wagner. The investigation is based on new witness statements that have emerged.

Authorities have reopened the case because they believe that new witnesses have stepped forward with information that does not jibe with the official story of what happened. The new witness, boat captain Dennis Davern, said that he and Wagner fought before she slipped off a dinghy into the water. He told NBC News that he had lied to police in the initial investigation of Wood’s death. Wagner has refused to speak to investigators since the case was reopened.

In the initial investigation, investigators believed that she slipped off of the yacht and struggled to get into a rubber dinghy. The dinghy bore scratch marks on its side that seemed consistent with this theory. But in a 2013 report, the coroner’s investigators noted that nail clippings were not taken from Wood’s body to determine if they were made by her and that the dinghy was no longer available to be examined. The investigators now think that she probably died soon after she entered the water and that the dinghy did not play a role in her death.

The story behind the investigation is complicated. Several Hollywood fixers—including Peter Pitchess, who was a Los Angeles County sheriff at the time of the incident—had cozy relationships with Wagner and others in the film industry. They were able to influence the investigation and the official cause of death.

Causes of Drowning

Natalie Wood’s mysterious death at the age of 43 in 1981 left behind a lingering mystery. While it is widely believed that the actress fell off her boat and drowned, many question whether foul play was involved.

On the Thanksgiving weekend of that year, Wood was on a boating trip aboard her husband Robert Wagner’s 60-foot yacht, Splendour, off the coast of California’s Catalina Island. She was joined by her actor co-star Christopher Walken and the boat’s captain, Dennis Davern.

According to her sister, Lana, Wood was terrified of water. This, combined with her heavy drinking on the night of her death, makes it highly unlikely that she slipped off the boat and into the water. She also had bruises on her body and a swollen cheek, which would indicate she was the victim of an assault.

In a 2011 interview, Davern told NBC News that he and Wood had argued on the boat before she went to bed and slipped into the water. However, he has refused to talk to investigators since the case was reopened in 2011, and he has not been arrested for any connection to the actress’s death.

A yacht’s crew members have remained silent on the matter for decades, but new information has recently emerged that could shed light on the circumstances surrounding Wood’s disappearance. In particular, the authors of a 2012 book titled Drowning in Secrecy examine forensic evidence including never-before-seen photos of Natalie’s autopsy report, revealing that the bruising and other injuries were likely caused by an assault. They also highlight the glaring discrepancies between the initial statements made by Wagner, Walken and Davern and conclude that a cover-up of the truth is at play.

In addition to the forensics, the authors reveal eye-opening facts about lead detective Duane Rasure’s actions and conduct in the original investigation. They also provide details on a directive that appeared in the file from Sheriff Pitchess to his investigator, indicating that there was a clear attempt to close the case as an accident. They also expose a series of inconsistencies between Wagner’s and Walken’s accounts of what happened the night of the incident, and show how the Los Angeles County coroner misinterpreted the evidence and changed the cause of death to undetermined causes.

Symptoms of Drowning

Actress Natalie Wood’s mysterious death off the coast of Santa Catalina island in 1981 remains one of Hollywood’s most enduring mysteries. She starred in such classic films as Rebel Without A Cause, Splendor in the Grass and West Side Story and was beloved by generations of fans. Her death was officially ruled an accident, but conspiracy theories abound and it is still unclear what happened to the star.

On the evening of her death, Wood was aboard her husband’s yacht with her Brainstorm co-star Christopher Walken and the boat’s captain, Dennis Davern. At some point during the night, a fight broke out between Wagner and Wood over something trivial. The argument became heated and they argued in front of Davern, who told police that Wood took off in her dinghy afterward. When she didn’t return, Wagner went looking for her but found nothing. He then sent Davern to look in the water but refused to turn on his boat’s floodlights or call for help, as he didn’t want to raise suspicion that they were aground.

When a person drowns, they usually don’t thrash around as is depicted in many movies and television shows. The reason is that the victim has already expended all their energy trying to keep their head above water and may have been unable to shout for help due to a spasm of their upper airway or larynx. The spasm then relaxes, allowing water to pass through the throat into the trachea and then lungs.

After the actress’s body was discovered, authorities concluded that she had accidentally fallen overboard from her own dinghy and had been trapped in the water for several hours. However, investigators also noted that there were fresh bruises and abrasions on her body and that she looked as though she had been assaulted. The investigation was reopened in 2011 when Davern came forward and confessed that he had fought with Wood just before her death. Detectives told 48 Hours that over 100 tips have been received since the investigation was reopened and that they have made progress.

Signs of Drowning

The 1981 death of Natalie Wood, who was 43, off the coast of Santa Catalina Island, has always been one of Hollywood’s most enduring mysteries. Wood had starred in some of the most beloved films of the era, including Rebel Without a Cause, Splendor in the Grass and West Side Story.

The harrowing details of her death made headlines around the world and, for decades, the cause of the actress’s tragic end has been debated. Her cause of death was ruled accidental drowning, but the circumstances surrounding her sudden and mysterious disappearance remain murky to this day.

Wood was last seen alive on Thanksgiving weekend in 1981, sailing aboard her husband Robert Wagner’s yacht with her Brainstorm co-star Christopher Walken and the boat’s captain, Dennis Davern. A few days later, her body was found floating in the water off the coast of California’s Catalina Island, about a mile from her vessel.

The day before she was discovered, Wood and her family had gone to a restaurant in Two Harbors called Doug’s Harbor Reef. The restaurant owner told police that the group drank and that at some point a fight broke out between Wood and her husband Wagner, who was also acting on the boat.

It’s unclear what happened to Wood that fateful night, but she never returned to the yacht. Her body was pulled from the water the following morning wearing a flannel nightgown and a down jacket. She had bruises on her body, and scratch marks were found on the rubber dinghy that was recovered from the water.

Despite speculation that the bruises and scratch marks were caused by a struggle, investigators concluded she simply fell off the boat and into the water. Her autopsy report also noted she was not drunk at the time of her death.

The case took a new turn this week when Los Angeles County Sheriff’s officials announced 87-year-old Wagner, who was married to Wood twice, is a person of interest in her death. His lawyer didn’t return a message left for him at his St. Augustine business on Friday.