Home Improvement News Articles

What You Should Know When Shopping for a Water Heater

How often do you think about your water heater? You use it every day, usually multiple times a day. When was the last time you thought about how much energy it consumes or how well it's doing its job? Choosing the right water heater for your home and regularly maintaining it can help reduce your energy bills. What's more, you can actually get a tax break for choosing an energy-efficient water heater.

Published: 2009-04-22 00:00:00 read more...

Five Ways to Make Your Home and Wallet Greener

With tightened budgets, you may be surprised to learn that going green at home is not only good for the planet but also good for your pocket book. Here are five home improvement ideas that pay for themselves quickly and save you money in the long-run.

Published: 2009-04-14 00:00:00 read more...

New Deck Trends Help Define Your Outdoor Living Area

Just as your home's decor is a statement of your taste and personality, so is your backyard. As the trend for enjoying customized decks and outdoor living space grows, personalized outdoor living areas are the latest in home improvement upgrades.

Published: 2009-04-13 00:00:00 read more...

Strapped for Cash? HVAC Solutions Keep Costs Low and Comfort High

Like many Americans, you're probably thinking about ways you can reduce your living expenses. Heating and cooling costs account for more than 40 percent of the average home's energy bill, so finding ways to become more energy efficient can save you real cash.

Published: 2009-04-08 00:00:00 read more...

The Good News: Bath Remodels Remain Tops for ROI and Enjoyment

If you are among the majority of homeowners whose hard work and smart financing decisions will allow you to stay in your home through the recession and real estate downturn, you may actually have the wherewithal to make some improvements to your home. Low interest rates and increased competition among remodeling contractors make this a great time to enhance your house's value and your enjoyment of your home with some popular upgrades.

Published: 2009-04-06 00:00:00 read more...

Creative Ways to Maximize Space in Your Bathroom

Have you ever met anyone with too much space in their bathroom? Whether you're remodeling, updating or just need to make the most of the square footage you've got, there are creative ways to maximize the space in your bathroom to keep clutter in its place and create a relaxing, spa-like atmosphere.

Published: 2009-04-03 00:00:00 read more...

Simple Steps to Stylish and Affordable Outdoor Spaces

When the sun is shining and the summer breezes are blowing, it's difficult to resist the call to relax outdoors. But if you have a blank canvas of grass or a cement slab, it doesn't exactly call to mind visions of barbeques and family gatherings. Don't stare longingly out the windows this summer when you can expand your living space to include the outdoors in just a few simple steps.

Published: 2009-03-31 00:00:00 read more...

The Spring Cleaning Task that Can Save You Money

Spring cleaning season meets a recession - what better time to take care of some often-overlooked household cleaning tasks that can save you big bucks in the long run? When was the last time you had your cooling coils cleaned ? If you're not even sure what part of the system the coils are, where they're located or if they've ever been cleaned at all, spring is a good time to take care of this important maintenance item.

Published: 2009-03-31 00:00:00 read more...

Maintaining Fences and Gates a Smart Move

Good fences really can make good neighbors and neighborhoods. When was the last time you inspected fences, gates and gate hardware around your property to ensure they're still in good working condition? Ignoring fence and gate maintenance can be extremely costly. Taking measures that will help protect your home, property, children and pets is inexpensive, quick and easy to do.

Published: 2009-03-31 00:00:00 read more...

Solar Water Heating Can Save Money and Pay Off Big

Green-minded homeowners can continue to turn to the sky for help in coping with rising energy costs for years to come thanks to an extension of the solar tax credit program by Congress. Here's what you need to know about solar energy and how it can save you money.

Published: 2009-03-30 00:00:00 read more...

How to Make a Big Splash with Your Small Yard

A baby boomer couple downsizing, a working professional's downtown city condo, and a young family's starter home in a metro suburb -- the trend of people moving to smaller homes with smaller yards continues to grow. If you are one of them, how do you make the most out of your small outdoor green space? With the right tools and strategies, you'll find the possibilities are endless.

Published: 2009-03-30 00:00:00 read more...

Planning Spring Home Improvements? Know the Score First

Spring is a popular time to begin home improvement projects, especially if they'll upgrade outdoor living spaces. With the economy keeping more homeowners in place, rather than moving up to bigger, grander digs, improving your home can elevate both your enjoyment and its eventual resale value.

Published: 2009-03-23 00:00:00 read more...

Is Your Home in Need of a Home Design Stimulus Plan?

These days bailouts are common, but not many Americans have considered it for their home design. Does lifeless and cluttered design leave your home in need of a makeover? Here are some tips from a pro to help you out.

Published: 2009-03-23 00:00:00 read more...

American Hardwoods: Nature's 'Greenest' Choice

When it comes to "greening" a new or existing home, many consumers simply do not have the facts about American hardwood as an environmentally-friendly building material choice. Wood misconceptions abound. Here are the answers to your most common concerns.

Published: 2009-03-20 00:00:00 read more...

'Green' Equals Green with Ceramic Tile

For homeowners, good news has been hard to come by in this bleak economy. So it may come as a happy surprise to many to learn that the two most compelling trends in home remodeling and maintenance -- pinching pennies and going "green" -- are quite compatible with each other.

Published: 2009-03-20 00:00:00 read more...

Decrease Your Home's Carbon Footprint and Save

Recycling, driving less and bringing reusable bags to the grocery stores are great ways to reduce your family's carbon footprint, but did you know there are things you can do to reduce the impact your home has on the environment, not to mention your wallet?

Published: 2009-03-18 00:00:00 read more...

Asphalt Shingles -- Are They The Best Investment For Your Home?

Your roof provides up to 50 percent of your home's exterior protection. In a poor economy, it's more important than ever to maintain this important protection for your biggest investment.

Published: 2009-03-17 00:00:00 read more...

Four Ways to Add 'Wow!' to Your Kitchen

As you start to build your new home, or remodel an older house into the comfortable and elegant retreat you've been dreaming about, one of the main rooms to consider will be the look, feel and use of your kitchen. Whether you are empty-nesters or parents with children running through the house, the kitchen is your home's center for entertaining, gathering, communicating and cooking.

Published: 2009-03-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Inspection Helps Ensure Dream Deals Don't Turn into Nightmares

Buying a repossessed property, short sale or a home offered at a bargain price -- because of its condition -- can mean you're assuming much higher risks. Still, it is possible to get a dream deal on a distressed home. Before you sign on the dotted line, be sure to have the house thoroughly inspected by a professional, so you can reduce potential risks as well as financial costs.

Published: 2009-03-11 00:00:00 read more...

What Shade of Green Are You?

If you thought green was a trend primarily embraced by Gen X and Yers, think again. Information gathered by Moen Incorporated indicates that key values and financial status, rather than age, are the defining characteristics in determining consumers' level of interest in green products.

Published: 2009-03-11 00:00:00 read more...

Go Green This Spring Cleaning Season

Is your spring cleaning really as clean as you think it is? Spring cleaning is supposed to be a ritual of purging the accumulated dirt, germs and odor from a winter-weary home to create a clean and healthy living space. Unfortunately, the often caustic and toxic ingredients used in most conventional cleaning products can be just as harmful as the dirt and germs they are meant to eliminate.

Published: 2009-03-11 00:00:00 read more...

Greening Your Home can Earn You a Tax Credit

Spring is here, summer's just around the corner and it's time to break out of that winter funk. With Americans spending more time at home these days, many are investing in home upgrades. As household budgets tighten, consumers are cutting back on going out in favor of entertaining at home. And that means renovations like kitchen and bath makeovers or finishing basements to add living space are priorities on many "to do" lists.

Published: 2009-03-09 00:00:00 read more...

Kitchen Remodel Tips from the Pros

Now is a great time to invest in your home, and renovating your kitchen is usually the most cost-effective upgrade you can make. As the room where families spend the most time together, the kitchen can be enjoyed on a daily basis and much of the renovation cost can be recouped when you do decide to sell.

Published: 2009-03-04 00:00:00 read more...

How to Promote Sustainability without Sacrifice at Home

Spring is the perfect time to think green. The sun is shining and plants are in bloom -- so why not get inspired to consider adding a bit of green to your lifestyle? Here's a look at how you can reduce your consumption of the earth's resources to help preserve them for years to come.

Published: 2009-03-04 00:00:00 read more...

Stock Cabinetry -- an Affordable Kitchen Upgrade

Many families are choosing to stay home and cook instead of going out to eat. This trend has sparked demand for kitchens that can handle high traffic and store a wide array of cooking essentials. Homeowners looking to add spice to their kitchen can cut back on remodeling costs and still achieve a high end look.

Published: 2009-03-04 00:00:00 read more...

How to Prevent Hazards in the Bathroom

An elderly woman slipped in her bathroom while brushing her teeth and had to be rushed to the hospital. A month later, an older man couldn't get out of his bathtub and was stuck in it for five days surviving on water from the facet before a neighbor found him. We've all heard tragic stories of the elderly being injured in the bathroom. That might leave you to wonder, how safe is the bathroom in your home?

Published: 2009-03-03 00:00:00 read more...

A Home Improvement Project that Saves Big Money on Taxes

Wouldn't it be nice if adding style, curb appeal and energy efficiency to your home actually saved you money? In 2009 and 2010, it can. Thanks to the new 2009 stimulus legislation, American homeowners can earn up to a $1,500 tax credit for buying qualifying insulated garage doors.

Published: 2009-02-23 00:00:00 read more...

Is it Yard Graffiti or Not? How to Tell

Have you ever looked outside and noticed your neighbor's front yard painted with colorful lines or covered with flags? Despite its appearance, it's not yard graffiti, but rather temporary markings to show the approximate location of underground utility lines on the property. Underground utility lines can be found in the front or backyard and include all of the service lines such as water, gas and communication lines that bring service from the street into your home.

Published: 2009-02-23 00:00:00 read more...

The Guide to a Safe and Stylish Bathroom

The bathroom, often a place of relaxation and comfort, can also be a dangerous space. Whether your family members are 3 years old or 93, the risk of getting hurt in the bathroom is the same for all ages. So whether it's bath time for your little ones or their grandparents, the following tips will help you to create a safe bathroom that is fashionable and inviting.

Published: 2009-02-23 00:00:00 read more...

Six Reasons to Love Stainless Steel

Briefly deemed too industrial-looking by some designers to be included in contemporary, upscale kitchens, stainless steel is back, better and more beautiful than ever. Stainless steel is again enjoying a place of honor in American kitchens. Here are six reasons to love stainless steel.

Published: 2009-02-23 00:00:00 read more...

What to Know When Buying a Deck for Your Home

When it comes to home improvements, deck systems top the list with an estimated four million new decks built annually in the U.S. and 40 million remodeled decks gracing today's homes. This rising trend has led manufacturers to offer a wider variety of deck materials, styles, and options, but choices can be overwhelming. While wood has traditionally won the popularity contest for decks due to its natural appearance, vinyl is becoming a choice material for outdoor home entertaining due to its combination of carefree maintenance, aesthetics and value. Vinyl isn't just for windows and siding anymore.

Published: 2009-02-20 00:00:00 read more...

How to Create More Space in Rooms without Moving Walls

Bulky space-consuming furniture is on its way out. Beautiful space-saving wood cabinetry is in, taking its rightful place throughout the home, from formal dining rooms to mud rooms.

Published: 2009-02-20 00:00:00 read more...

Bathroom by Numbers

Thinking about updating your bathroom, but not sure what to budget -- or if you'll even recoup the costs in today's market? The good news is that modifying a bathroom not only adds daily enjoyment and comfort, but will enhance your home's value as well.

Published: 2009-02-11 00:00:00 read more...

Hardworking Kitchens with Style

Years ago, the kitchen served a very utilitarian function - a place to prepare food and clean the dishes. Today, it's truly the nerve center of the house where families eat meals, discuss the day's happenings, plan calendars, check e-mail and even entertain. As a result, more homeowners than ever seek ways to make their kitchens work harder so they can re-focus their energy away from cooking and cleaning, and put it more on their family and friends who have gathered.

Published: 2009-02-03 00:00:00 read more...

Expert Advice on Energy Saving Tips for the Home

What if you could easily save money and help the environment at the same time? You can. All it takes is a little expert advice on how to make your home more energy-efficient.

Published: 2009-01-30 00:00:00 read more...

Do-it-yourself Kitchen Projects Add Equity

A kitchen is one of the most used and important areas in a home. Even as home prices across the country decline, a kitchen remodel can still add value to your home.

Published: 2009-01-29 00:00:00 read more...

Window Shopping Made Easy

This year, as people are staying closer to home, why not try a home improvement project that involves little effort, makes your house more beautiful and efficient and can provide benefits for years to come -- replacing your windows.

Published: 2009-01-23 00:00:00 read more...

Now is the Time for Smaller Home Remodel Projects

While new home construction has come to a grinding halt in most of the country, smaller home-renovation projects are still a viable option for homeowners. For those who want to invest in their homes, it's tough to beat bathroom additions and remodels, which rank high on NAHB's list of the most prevalent remodeling jobs.

Published: 2009-01-20 00:00:00 read more...

Colorful Cabinets Offer Bright Pick-me-up in Down Economy

The economy may be down, but things are looking up for kitchens and baths as manufacturers provide affordable new ways to perk up cabinetry with colors that lift the spirits.

Published: 2009-01-14 00:00:00 read more...

Remodel Your Kitchen for a Great Return on Investment

Remodeling a current home instead of buying a new one is a popular decision among homeowners in today's economy and housing market. It's also a wise choice, for when the time comes to sell, the return on investment for many remodeling projects is significant, especially in the kitchen. Here are some things you should consider before you start your remodel.

Published: 2009-01-14 00:00:00 read more...

Common Dishwasher Myths Debunked

One of the most common disagreements among families is whether it's better to wash the dishes by hand or use the dishwasher. Some people think they are saving time, water and energy when washing by hand, but really the opposite is true. This isn't the only myth about this popular appliance that is misunderstood by consumers.

Published: 2009-01-13 00:00:00 read more...

Preparing Your Home for the Digital TV Transition

Many of us have been hearing about the digital TV transition for a long time now. With the date fast approaching, what does it mean for you and what are your plans for the TVs in your home?

Published: 2009-01-12 00:00:00 read more...

Will Your Kitchen Cabinets Withstand More Than the Test of Time?

The last thing you need to worry about is whether your kitchen cabinetry can stand up to everyday wear and tear in the kitchen. Here's what to look for to make sure your cabinets can perform.

Published: 2009-01-12 00:00:00 read more...

Tropical Hardwood Looks: The Next Hot Composite Deck Trend

If you're like many Americans, you'll likely curtail vacation plans this year in favor of staying home and saving money. But even economy-wary homeowners are still interested in improving their homes and they're looking for improvements with the biggest payback. Decks are often cited as delivering the highest return on investment and homeowner enjoyment.

Published: 2009-01-05 00:00:00 read more...

Ventilation -- The Secret to a Clean, Odor-free Kitchen

The kitchen is one of the most active rooms in your home -- one that is filled with the delicious, mouth-watering smells of what's cooking. But along with the good smells come the bad: smoke, steam and grease splatter. Homeowners who are tired of feeling the heat -- simply need to vent.

Published: 2008-12-19 00:00:00 read more...

Versatile Retaining Walls are a DIY Landscaper's Best Friend

Segmental retaining wall systems are one of the most versatile tools available to the do-it-yourself landscaper. Besides traditional walls designed to hold back soil, these innovative systems also can be used to build a whole array of landscaping features.

Published: 2008-12-12 00:00:00 read more...

Don't Let Cold Weather Stall Home Improvement Projects

Cold, harsh winter weather has arrived. Home improvement projects may not be at the top of your to-do list, but this is a great time of year to consider potential exterior enhancements.

Published: 2008-12-12 00:00:00 read more...

Winter Wake Up for Your Basement

Though the basement is often viewed as a rugged recreational room, it still deserves the same decorative and functional attention as the rest of the home; and the winter months provide the perfect opportunity to tackle some of those projects.

Published: 2008-12-09 00:00:00 read more...

Backyard Bliss

When you were a kid, your back yard was an adventure waiting to happen, a world of new and exciting things right outside your door. Just because you're an adult doesn't mean you have to give up on the idea of finding paradise on your own property. Here are some tips to turn your own yard into an outdoor oasis.

Published: 2008-05-19 00:00:00 read more...

The Benefits of Being Green

When it comes to modern remodeling, it's not only easy but beneficial to go green.

Published: 2008-05-19 00:00:00 read more...

Eye-Fooling Faux Designs Add Style and Savings

It has been said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. So when it comes to selecting the right home improvement materials for remodeling projects, more homeowners are discovering they can achieve fabulous looks by going faux.

Published: 2008-05-16 00:00:00 read more...

How to Reduce Anxiety When Replacing Doors and Windows

Not knowing what to expect during remodeling can be very daunting. Don't let fear hold you back from needed or desired home improvement projects like upgrading leaky windows or drafty doors. Here's what you should look for when evaluating a company to replace windows and doors.

Published: 2008-05-15 00:00:00 read more...

Make Sure Your Contractor is Fiscally Sound

In the current challenging housing market, many homeowners are looking to remodel their homes instead of building or buying. Consumers need to protect themselves from ending up with a half-finished project and a contractor who ends up in bankruptcy court.

Published: 2008-05-15 00:00:00 read more...

Better Than Moving: Get More Space with a Basement Remodel

Remodeling your home by finishing a basement can increase your living space without the hassle of moving or the expense and environmental impact of building an addition. Finishing a basement is one of the most cost-effective remodeling projects, according to Remodeling Magazine's 2007 Cost vs. Value report, with homeowners seeing an average 75 percent return on investment when they sell the home in the first year.

Published: 2008-05-14 00:00:00 read more...

Secrets of the Home Sale

Here are a few simple tricks that can help create a more appealing space and a more attractive listing in today's increasingly competitive housing market.

Published: 2008-05-14 00:00:00 read more...

The Humane Way to Take Control of a Pesky Bird Problem

Woodpecks can cause a lot of damage when they peck holes in cedar wood siding or the eaves of a home while looking for shelter, trying to find food, or when they're sending out a mating call to other birds. Here are some humane ways to keep them out of your yard.

Published: 2008-05-09 00:00:00 read more...

In the Dark about Outdoor Lighting? Tips for Brightening Up

Nothing says "summer" like outdoor entertaining. But if poor lighting means your outdoor activities end when the sun goes down, it may be time to brighten up.

Published: 2008-05-07 00:00:00 read more...

Skylights - Energy Efficient Lighting and Ventilation

Skylights don't only let light into otherwise dark areas. Here are some of the other great benefits they offer.

Published: 2008-05-05 00:00:00 read more...

It's Annual Fence Fix-up Time

If you've watched home improvement shows that focus on "curb appeal," you know that a coat of paint or stain on a fence can make a huge difference in the attractiveness of your home. But visual appeal isn't the only reason to renovate your fence --a worn out enclosure can also put the safety of your home and family at risk.

Published: 2008-05-02 00:00:00 read more...

Remodel While the Sun Shines: Summertime Home Fix-Ups

Summer often inspires the desire to remodel. Warm breezes blow through the windows to dry fresh coats of paint, and backyard picnics offer relaxing respite between projects. But beyond the weather, a shifting economy is also causing homeowners to remodel and make repairs.

Published: 2008-04-30 00:00:00 read more...

Affordable Bathroom Updates

With the slowdown in the real estate market, more people are looking for ways to add value to their homes and make them stand out from the rest. One area that is of high interest to both buyers and home investors is the bathroom.

Published: 2008-04-28 00:00:00 read more...

How to Improve your Outdoor Living Area

Feel like you're outgrowing your home? How about extending the use and value of your house by taking full advantage of the outdoor space that surrounds it?

Published: 2008-04-25 00:00:00 read more...

Easy Home Improvements that Add Value

Enjoy your home today and make it stand out from the rest in the future by considering these DIY home improvements.

Published: 2008-04-25 00:00:00 read more...

Hot Summer Deck Trends

Is installing a new deck, or freshening an existing one, in your summer spruce-up plans? If so, you're not alone. Decks are still among the most popular home improvements as the trend towards bigger and better outdoor living spaces continues. Here's what's hot in decks this summer.

Published: 2008-04-24 00:00:00 read more...

Steps You Can Take To Preserve the Value of Your Home

Since the value of your home is directly tied to its condition, there are steps you can take to help preserve that value.

Published: 2008-04-23 00:00:00 read more...

Small Updates Help a House Sell

Every seller wants to move fast and get top dollar. So, if you're getting ready to sell, among the best ways to improve your odds on both ends is to make sure you have great "curb appeal" and an inviting inside decor.

Published: 2008-04-23 00:00:00 read more...

Seize the Day, Help Save the Planet

We've all heard the saying, "What a difference a day makes." Today could be your opportunity to make a difference by reducing your home's impact on the environment. Surprisingly, one of the most beneficial ways is to use less energy to heat and cool your home … and it starts with adding insulation.

Published: 2008-04-22 00:00:00 read more...

Splashy Faucet Trends

Nature, runway designs, cityscapes, upholstery -- current home design trends draw from many influences. Check out how the latest trends are exemplified in state-of-the-art kitchen and bath products.

Published: 2008-04-22 00:00:00 read more...

The Latest Trends in Kitchens and Baths

The latest kitchen and bath design trends draw inspiration from numerous sources. Here are some of them.

Published: 2008-04-22 00:00:00 read more...

The Truth about Toilets: How to Pick the Best 'Throne' for Your Bathroom

Toilets may be the bathroom fixture homeowners use the most, but think about the least. With Americans spending more time and money remodeling their bathrooms, it's time to take a moment and think about how much you know about the features and functions of the hardest-working fixture in your bathroom.

Published: 2008-04-21 00:00:00 read more...

Doing a Bathroom Remodel? Here's What You Need to Know About Toilets

Toilets may be the bathroom fixture homeowners use the most, but think about the least. With Americans spending more time and money remodeling their bathrooms, it's time to take a moment and think about how much you know about the features and functions of the hardest-working fixture in your bathroom.

Published: 2008-04-21 00:00:00 read more...

Make the Most of Your Tax Rebate: Reinvest in Your Home

In an effort to jumpstart the struggling economy, the federal government has approved an economic stimulus package that will send rebate checks to qualifying taxpayers, some as early as May. Homeowners can use this refund to invest in home improvements that add value in a difficult housing market.

Published: 2008-04-18 00:00:00 read more...

Curb Appeal Takes Starring Role in Competitive Market

Curb appeal is taking on a bigger role in today's housing market. Upgrading curb appeal is proving to be a good investment when selling a home. Here are the top five curb appeal tips.

Published: 2008-04-17 00:00:00 read more...

Ways to Green Up Your Home

Green up your home now so next year's heating bills won't be as high.

Published: 2008-04-15 00:00:00 read more...

Outdoor Lighting Shines Bright this Summer

Homeowners' desire to extend their outdoor time well into the night is driving the trend towards more creative outdoor lighting.

Published: 2008-04-14 00:00:00 read more...

Secrets to Building an Eco-Friendly Home

Homeowners are embracing the green movement, not only opting for eco-friendly renovations when they improve existing homes, but choosing to go green from the ground up when they build a new house. Here are some secrets to embracing eco-friendly building.

Published: 2008-04-14 00:00:00 read more...

Green Your Home and Lower Your Cooling Bills

According to the EPA, the average house contributes twice as much to global warming as the average car. With hot summer weather just around the corner, now is the time to give your home a "check-up."

Published: 2008-04-14 00:00:00 read more...

'Right-sizing' Your HVAC System

Properly sizing your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system can lead to greater comfort, lower energy costs and better indoor air quality.

Published: 2008-04-10 00:00:00 read more...

Easy Backyard Upgrades Improve Outdoor Living

In today's tough housing market, many homeowners are choosing to upgrade rather than move. Home expansions can improve your lifestyle, add beauty as well as protect your investment. One of the easiest and least expensive ways to add living space is to create a backyard sanctuary using low-maintenance tools and materials.

Published: 2008-04-03 00:00:00 read more...

How to Choose and Use the Right Glue

How do you know what type of glue is right for your project? James and Morris Carey, home improvement gurus and hosts of the nationally syndicated radio program "On the House with the Carey Brothers" offer some advice.

Published: 2008-03-27 00:00:00 read more...

The Role Lighting Plays as You Work to Conserve Energy in the Home

If you had to choose a buzzword for 2008 it would be conservation. One of the easiest, and most obvious places to cut back is on the amount of electricity you use in the home, starting with the lighting.

Published: 2008-03-24 00:00:00 read more...

Solar Water Heating is Heating Up

There's another hot new trend in green homebuilding and remodeling. Advances in technology, coupled with rising energy prices, are resulting in growing interest in solar water-heating systems when green-minded consumers build or remodel homes.

Published: 2008-03-20 00:00:00 read more...

Stumped by Plumbing? Newer Technologies Make it Easier than Ever

Ask anyone if they have ever taken on a home plumbing project by themselves and they will likely say that they have. But how involved was the project? Plumbing is now easier than ever for do-it-yourselfers, thanks to new products and technologies.

Published: 2008-03-19 00:00:00 read more...

Let It Pour - Creating the Perfect Home Bar

The home bar is back and better than before, paving the way for casual cocktails and stylish home entertaining across the country.

Published: 2008-03-18 00:00:00 read more...

Make Spring Cleaning Easier: Rent Tools

As the temperatures rise many of us feel the urge to begin cleaning away the dust and dirt that has accumulated over the long winter months. It can be frustrating to clean things such as your siding, the deck, or embedded dirt in your carpet, but these chores do not need to be as time consuming as you might think.

Published: 2008-03-17 00:00:00 read more...

Your Front Entry: On Duty 24/7

Here are some ways to ensure your front entry has what it takes to provide security and protection 24/7:

Published: 2008-03-14 00:00:00 read more...

Your New Bathroom Addition Can Conserve Water and Cut Installation Costs

When it comes to saving water, every drop counts. The bathrooms in your home are a good target, because that's where a lot of water goes down the drain. Here's an easy option for you to help save the environment while saving some money at the same time.

Published: 2008-03-14 00:00:00 read more...

Out with the Old, in with the New Windows

When determining what remodeling projects are most deserving, homeowners should consider that windows offer some of the biggest payoffs.

Published: 2008-03-13 00:00:00 read more...

Remodel Your Outdoor Spaces

With uncertainties in the housing market causing many homeowners to "hunker down" and stay put for a while, targeted improvements are becoming a popular way to add value to a home. An outdoor remodel is one improvement that nearly always offers a great return on investment.

Published: 2008-03-12 00:00:00 read more...

Spring 'Greening' Around the House

Making a few easy green improvements around your house can help you be friendly to the environment -- and your wallet. Here are some ideas.

Published: 2008-03-11 00:00:00 read more...

Add on a Bathroom Without Breaking the Bank

Whether you have one bathroom or three, the addition of a bathroom to a home offers both value and convenience. The good news is a bathroom addition doesn't have to break the bank. A do-it-yourselfer with moderate experience can complete some of the work to keep the budget in check. It's surprising how effortless many projects can be, such as installing the flooring, shower components, fixtures and finishing touches.

Published: 2008-03-10 00:00:00 read more...

Reduce, Reuse, Reclaim

There's no need to abandon a love of wood floors in an effort to "go green." Reclaimed wood floors -- salvaged from Industrial Revolution-era mills and factories, barns, piers, and other structures -- offer homeowners a way to do their part for the environment without compromising on style or durability.

Published: 2008-03-10 00:00:00 read more...

Go Green with Reclaimed Floors

There's no need to abandon a love of wood floors in an effort to "go green." Reclaimed wood floors -- salvaged from Industrial Revolution-era mills and factories, barns, piers, and other structures -- offer homeowners a way to do their part for the environment without compromising on style or durability.

Published: 2008-03-10 00:00:00 read more...

Paver Possibilities--Landscape Pavers Go Green

Stylish and versatile, landscape pavers can add tremendous utility and value to a home. But now, landscape pavers have gone green and can not only be used to beautify your home, but also help the environment.

Published: 2008-03-07 00:00:00 read more...

Need More Room? Don't Move - Improve

With the real estate market in a slump, many people are choosing to improve rather than move. Here's where they can find the money to do it.

Published: 2008-03-07 00:00:00 read more...

Add Warmth and Value with Easy Weekend Projects

You don't need to spend like a diva or wield a hammer like a home improvement show host to achieve a high-impact do-it-yourself project. Many value-enhancing, elegance-adding improvements can be made in the home in a single weekend with minimal effort and expense.

Published: 2008-03-06 00:00:00 read more...

Take a Vacation in Your Backyard

The housing market may be keeping you in your current home for awhile and fuel prices are rising, so why not enjoy your outdoor spaces and save money by taking a vacation right in your own backyard?

Published: 2008-03-06 00:00:00 read more...

A Cost-effective Way to Add More Living or Work Space

According to Remodeling Magazine's 2007 Cost vs. Value Report, the average home addition now costs upwards of $78,000. But what if you need more space and can't afford to spend that much money?

Published: 2008-03-06 00:00:00 read more...

'Sunscreen' for Your 'Green' Home

Just as sunscreen is critical outside to protect against skin and eye damage, the right protection for windows and doors helps to block powerful ultra-violet (UV) rays from causing irreversible damage to fabrics and furniture indoors.

Published: 2008-03-06 00:00:00 read more...

Living the Green Life

With a stagnant economy, American homeowners may not be in a buy/sell mode, but rather a remodel and stay put mentality, tackling projects that will add efficiency and value to their home, versus aesthetic sizzle. In many areas, that practicality translates into greater energy efficiency and living 'green.'

Published: 2008-03-05 00:00:00 read more...

Composite Decking Materials Help Homeowners Go Green

Spring is a favorite home improvement season, and a top project on many homeowners' lists is building a new deck or improving an existing one.

Published: 2008-03-05 00:00:00 read more...

Prepare Your House for Sale from the Ground Up

The housing sales slump continues. From Sacramento to Detroit to Atlanta, housing sales have taken a dive. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) predicts that a soft market for existing home sales will continue through the first half of the year. Whether you're selling now or decide to settle in while waiting for the housing market downturn to end, a few interior updates can do much to enhance your home's appeal in either situation.

Published: 2008-03-05 00:00:00 read more...

Latest Trends Add Outdoor Style

As homeowners makeover their outdoor living spaces, designers are encouraging them to make a statement by drawing on the latest trends. Here they are.

Published: 2008-03-05 00:00:00 read more...

From Cabinets to Countertops - Creating a Kitchen on a Budget

A remodeled kitchen increases the value of the home and makes it more enjoyable to cook, live and dine in. Here are some tips for controlling costs when remodeling the kitchen.

Published: 2008-03-05 00:00:00 read more...

Latest Trends in Glass Design

Walls that look like stacked ice cubes, staircases you can see through and bathrooms with tiles in all the colors of the rainbow. The use of glass in interior design and architecture has evolved in the past century with more and more designs featuring glittering, mirrored, frosted and colored glass. Here are the top trends designers are implementing.

Published: 2008-03-04 00:00:00 read more...

What's Tops in Tile? Organic Influence and Fashion Forward

Far beyond the bath - that's where creative homeowners and inventive interior designers are taking tile in 2008.

Published: 2008-03-04 00:00:00 read more...

Top Tips to Ease Common Bathroom Pet Peeves

He leaves the toilet seat up. She scatters make-up on the counter. If you're like most Americans, you love your mate - but you don't always love their daily bathroom habits. So what are the things that really drive men and women crazy in the bathroom? And how can we all solve these problems?

Published: 2008-03-03 00:00:00 read more...

A Home Improvement Idea for 2008 That Impresses

What is the most dramatic, eye-catching home improvement project you can launch into this year? It's an exterior upgrade that adds style and curb appeal to one-third or more of the front of homes: the garage door. Here's some ideas on new garage door trends and how they can make your house look great.

Published: 2008-02-29 00:00:00 read more...

Build an Environmentally Friendly and Easy to Care for Deck

Spring is just around the corner and with it comes visions of the great outdoors. The time is right for homeowners to plan and build a deck that will extend living spaces to the outdoors and create an environmentally friendly and easy to care for space to entertain friends and family.

Published: 2008-02-28 00:00:00 read more...

Home Sweet Dream Home

Home sweet home … it's your refuge that expresses your personal style. Dreaming of turning your ordinary safe haven into your dream house? Now is the time to make it a reality.

Published: 2008-02-27 00:00:00 read more...

In a Down Market, Just Add Color

When it comes to your home's exterior, color is currency. With millions of homes across the country currently on the market, smart homeowners are differentiating their houses and wowing potential buyers with color - from the roof all the way down to the landscaping.

Published: 2008-02-26 00:00:00 read more...

Spring Cleaning with Essential Oils

The best part of spring cleaning is opening the doors and windows to welcome fresh air and sunshine. Why not add to that spring freshness with essential oils?

Published: 2008-02-21 00:00:00 read more...

Your Credit Score: A Home Improvement Power Tool

What's the most powerful tool you can employ in your home improvement project? It's not a great contractor, creative architect or even a lot of do-it-yourself know-how--it's a good credit score.

Published: 2008-02-21 00:00:00 read more...

Decorate Your Home With Natural Light

With an increasing number of large homes being built on small lots, privacy is becoming more of an issue. Light from windows is rarely enough. Here's how to bring more light in.

Published: 2008-02-21 00:00:00 read more...

Backyard Landscaping Changes 'Blah' to 'Aha' With Hot Tubs

With the housing market in a slump, more homeowners are putting efforts into smart updates of their current property. For many, this means creating the ultimate relaxation destination right in their backyard. Hot tubs and strategic landscaping improvements are leading the trend as homeowners are changing their simple backyards into peaceful havens their family and friends can enjoy.

Published: 2008-02-21 00:00:00 read more...

Not Just for 'The Jetsons': Home Automation Solves Real Problems

Do the words "wireless home control" and "automation" make you think of "The Jetsons," complete with flying cars and a robot maid? New technology and more practical, affordable applications are now bringing the benefits of home automation to ordinary people.

Published: 2008-02-21 00:00:00 read more...

Spring Cleaning--Keep it Pure and Simple

The best part of spring cleaning is opening the doors and windows to welcome fresh air and sunshine. Why not add to that spring freshness with essential oils?

Published: 2008-02-21 00:00:00 read more...

Spring Cleaning -- Keep it Pure and Simple

The best part of spring cleaning is opening the doors and windows to welcome fresh air and sunshine. Why not add to that spring freshness with essential oils?

Published: 2008-02-21 00:00:00 read more...

Green Remodels are Rooted in Practical Sense

The American dream is no longer contained by a white picket fence. The dream is now green, and it is embedded in homes and lifestyles. Ninety percent of builders are incorporating green ideas into residential design and construction, a recent study by the National Association of Home Builders found. Building green is a hot trend right now. Here is what you need to know.

Published: 2008-02-14 00:00:00 read more...

Outdoor Living Cuts Yard Maintenance, Promotes Relaxation

Homeowners who want to reduce yard maintenance, bring natural environments into their living spaces, and expand their houses are reinventing the "great" in great outdoors. Here's some ideas to help you save time and relax more.

Published: 2008-02-14 00:00:00 read more...

Is Your Deck Safe?

As spring approaches, thoughts turn to sprucing up the yard, the garden, and spending more time outdoors. Part of gearing up for this time of year is making sure your deck is safe and well-maintained.

Published: 2008-02-12 00:00:00 read more...

Gazebos Bring Indoor Comfort Outside

For busy folks who don't have the time or the know-how to transform their outdoor space into a cozy garden room, outdoor structures like gazebos are a dream-come-true. Homeowners are turning to gazebos to transform their backyards into stylish outdoor living spaces, complete with indoor comforts.

Published: 2008-02-07 00:00:00 read more...

A Place for Everything and Everything in its Place

As spring reveals itself after a long winter so, too, does the need to begin outdoor chores for warmer weather. Here's a tool that will help you get the job done with ease.

Published: 2008-02-06 00:00:00 read more...

Tips to Make Yard Care Easier on the Body

It's no surprise that baby boomers who take care of the yard have plenty to complain about when it comes to aches and pains, including problems with backs, shoulders, arms, legs, hands and feet. And new research confirms what many of us know to be true -- that yard care can be tough on the body, particularly for adults in the baby boomer generation.

Published: 2008-02-05 00:00:00 read more...

Turn Your Used and Unwanted Electronics into Cash

Do you have used and unwanted electronics sitting around? Here's how to dispose of them responsibly.

Published: 2008-01-31 00:00:00 read more...

A Luxury Basement Addition that Doesn't Break the Bank

In today's homes, "comfort" and "serenity" are the hot new watchwords. From simply using more tranquil paint colors to the more ambitious addition of meditation and luxury spa retreats, the pursuit of well-being is increasingly figuring into the plans of American homeowners.

Published: 2008-01-29 00:00:00 read more...

Craving Concrete Countertops? You Can Do it Yourself

Do you love the look of concrete countertops, which is the hottest trend in kitchen and bath design, but the cost of professional installation puts them beyond your budget, and you're not sure if you're up to the task of doing it yourself? Don't despair. With planning, practice and a new crop of DIY-friendly materials, you can install your own concrete countertops.

Published: 2008-01-28 00:00:00 read more...

Take Steps Now to Combat Fire Ants

Temperatures are on the rise, more kids are playing outside, and before you know it, gardens will be flourishing. All these signs point to one glorious time of year -- spring. For people living in predominantly southern regions of the United States, spring also means that fire ants are back in force.

Published: 2008-01-22 00:00:00 read more...

Take Steps in Spring to Combat Fire Ants

Temperatures are on the rise, more kids are playing outside, and before you know it, gardens will be flourishing. All these signs point to one glorious time of year -- spring. For people living in predominantly southern regions of the United States, spring also means that fire ants are back in force.

Published: 2008-01-22 00:00:00 read more...

Don't Let Moles, Voles and Grubs Ruin Your Yard

As surely as spring will soon arrive, so will the critters that drive you crazy -- moles and voles. Make this the year you send them packing before they can cause damage in your yard. Here's how to do it.

Published: 2008-01-21 00:00:00 read more...

Protecting Your Home from Spring Windstorms

Like a scene from a Hollywood movie, winter winds rage through town, whipping up leaves, smacking shutters against siding and sending shingles flying. It's no mystery why scary movies often portray ominous scenes against a backdrop of a dark and stormy night. It's even more frightening in real life. With a few simple modifications and defensive strategies, homeowners can prepare their most valuable asset to stand up against even the harshest elements.

Published: 2008-01-18 00:00:00 read more...

Protecting Your Home from Winter Windstorms

Like a scene from a Hollywood movie, winter winds rage through town, whipping up leaves, smacking shutters against siding and sending shingles flying. It's no mystery why scary movies often portray ominous scenes against a backdrop of a dark and stormy night. It's even more frightening in real life. With a few simple modifications and defensive strategies, homeowners can prepare their most valuable asset to stand up against even the harshest elements.

Published: 2008-01-18 00:00:00 read more...

Make Sealing Your Kitchen and Bath Less of a Hassle

Hopefully you don't notice it, but it can be found in everyone's kitchen and bathroom. Problems and headaches for homeowners arise when it does become noticeable. Unsightly or missing caulk around the bathroom shower, tub, kitchen sink or countertop not only looks bad, but the real problems arise after years of water damage and neglect.

Published: 2008-01-17 00:00:00 read more...

Custom Showers: A Daily Dose of Luxury

While the bathtub still has a place in many homes, showers have emerged as a 'must have' in the bathroom. Particularly those capable of offering a daily dose of luxury.

Published: 2008-01-16 00:00:00 read more...

Have Two Minutes? DIY Solution for an Invigorating Shower

Homeowners usually target the bathroom when they set out to spruce the home up, according to a survey by Kitchen and Bath Business magazine. Bathroom improvements offer a dramatic return on the investment, especially when they are handled as do-it-yourself projects.

Published: 2008-01-15 00:00:00 read more...

Cloudy Windows? Clear the View by Preventing Mineral Deposits

Do your windows appear less than clear, even when you've just cleaned them? It's a problem that's more common than you may think, especially in communities where hard water is an issue. Here's what you can do.

Published: 2008-01-10 00:00:00 read more...

Movable Walls: Change Your Floor Plan in Minutes

While the walls of your home still can't talk, they can move -- thanks to advances in track technology and new thinking about how living spaces can be defined. The result is rooms that can serve multiple purposes and be virtually redesigned by simply sliding a wall panel.

Published: 2007-12-26 00:00:00 read more...

Garden Superstars for Spring 2008

From earth-friendly fertilizers to show-stopping roses, Spring 2008 promises to be an exciting year for garden lovers.

Published: 2007-12-14 00:00:00 read more...

New Home Communities Evolve as Real Estate Rebounds

Already, in some markets across the country real estate is rebounding, and many would-be homeowners are seeing some real opportunities in the changing new home market.

Published: 2007-12-11 00:00:00 read more...

Energy-Saving Tips for the Home Heating Season

Consumers are interested in the latest and greatest "green," energy-efficient products. While these products help homeowners make an impact, many consumers may overlook basic steps they can take to conserve energy in their home and lower energy costs, especially during winter months. Here's some steps to consider in your home.

Published: 2007-12-11 00:00:00 read more...

Caring for Your Hardwood Floors This Winter

Homeowners with hardwood floors are often concerned about damaging their floors during the winter season. Without proper care, winter's harsh elements -- slush, snow and salt -- can dull the varnish of hardwood floors and even cause warping and gapping. Rather than missing out on winter fun, here are a couple of simple steps you can take to protect your floors this winter.

Published: 2007-12-10 00:00:00 read more...

Remote Controlled Shutters Give Homeowners Complete Control

Homeowners across the country are discovering just how easy life can be if they invest in remote control shutters.

Published: 2007-12-07 00:00:00 read more...

Keep Your Plants Alive and Healthy This Winter

Winter is generally a harsh time for plants -- indoors and out, but gardening experts say there are simple ways to bundle up outdoor plants and healthy ways to care for indoor plants so they'll grow and bloom again for years to come.

Published: 2007-12-05 00:00:00 read more...

Four Ways to Find a Contractor You Can Love

Hire a questionable contractor and you could be setting yourself up for serious heartache. Find a contractor you can love and you'll be building the foundation of a lasting, happy relationship - not to mention the home of your dreams. Here are four steps towards building a lasting, happy relationship with a quality contractor.

Published: 2007-12-05 00:00:00 read more...

Hot New Looks, Green Value Bring Ceramic Tile Out of the Bath

As consumer demand continues to grow for innovative, versatile and "green" building products, ceramic tile is appearing in unusual locations and forms throughout the home.

Published: 2007-12-05 00:00:00 read more...

Now Is the Perfect Time to Check Your Home's Insulation

The cold and snow have arrived, which means it's a great time to make sure your home has enough insulation in the attic. If you can see the wood beams of the attic floor, it's probably under-insulated. What you find out will help you keep your house warmer and save you money for years to come.

Published: 2007-11-30 00:00:00 read more...

Tools Go Pretty and Powerful to Appeal to Women Do-it-yourselfers

If you think home renovation is still strictly a boy's club, think again . . . and check out the growing number of Web sites and tool manufacturers catering to female do-it-yourselfers.

Published: 2007-11-30 00:00:00 read more...

End the Year with a Weekend Project that Pays You Back

If you're looking for an easy home improvement project to tackle during your upcoming holiday break, why not choose one that pays you back? Adding insulation in your attic not only helps reduce your heating and cooling bills for years to come, but if you purchase qualifying insulation products before December 31, 2007, you may be eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $500. When was the last time one of your weekend projects gave you that kind of return?

Published: 2007-11-30 00:00:00 read more...

Dreaming of Green - A Garden Design and Care Primer

Green is the buzzword for today's gardener and landscaper. What is green gardening? Does walking into a nursery or browsing through plant catalogs give you a headache? Do you wonder how can you get your plants to look like, or somewhat like, those in the catalogs?

Published: 2007-11-30 00:00:00 read more...

Hidden Ways to Green-Up Your Home

Building or remodeling a home can be exciting -- and nerve wracking.But fortunately, it is not complicated to build a "green" home -- one that is energy efficient, uses renewable materials and is healthy for your family and the environment.

Published: 2007-11-29 00:00:00 read more...

Extreme Kitchen Makeovers on a Tight Budget

If your kitchen needs an extreme makeover, updating it might seem like an impossible task. The existing cabinets largely determine the overall feel of your kitchen, and replacing them can be enormously expensive. Luckily, there are easier, less expensive options for giving one of the most important rooms in your house the new look it deserves.

Published: 2007-11-29 00:00:00 read more...

Tips for Maintaining Home Safety

Winter here, which means more time spent indoors. Before you become housebound, take some time to conduct a safety check inside and around your home.

Published: 2007-11-28 00:00:00 read more...

Giving Your Home Curb Appeal: From The Inside

According to the National Association of Realtors, existing home sales have fallen to their lowest level in nearly 10 years. With more homes on the market, how can you make your home stand out? With the right improvements, you can give your kitchen just enough of an upgrade to make a great first impression on potential home buyers.

Published: 2007-11-28 00:00:00 read more...

What's Hot in the Home? Going Green, Getting Wired and Design Therapy

How you dress your home can be just as important as how you dress your body. Here are some of the trends on the cutting edge.

Published: 2007-11-28 00:00:00 read more...

How to Make Your Home Green

From floor plans to new furnishings, home remodeling comes with endless choices and possibilities. Whether it's a small project or a major addition, one important element to keep in mind as a homeowner makes those choices is green design.

Published: 2007-11-28 00:00:00 read more...

Save Energy This Winter without Spending a Dime

While there are plenty of costly ways to save on your utility bills this winter -- buying a high efficiency furnace, radiant floor heating system or solar-paneled roof -- there also are things you can do to cut energy usage that won't cost you a dime.

Published: 2007-11-20 00:00:00 read more...

Weather the Soaring Increase in Heating Costs

You'd be crazy to heat your home by burning dollar bills in the fireplace. Yet many homeowners are wasting money each year by paying for heat that escapes quickly due to inadequate insulation. The National Energy Assistance Directors' Association (NEADA) estimates that this winter's home heating fuel prices could rise as much as 47.3 percent. That statistic means it now makes more sense than ever for homeowners to think seriously about adding insulation.

Published: 2007-11-20 00:00:00 read more...

Build Your Own Backyard Retreat with Walls and Pavers

More and more, homeowners are finding new ways to entertain right outside their back door. Using a modern segmental retaining wall system in combination with concrete paving stones, even the most mundane yard can be transformed into a cozy, relaxing retreat for friends and family.

Published: 2007-11-20 00:00:00 read more...

Find Your Design Inspiration: Decorating Tips that Tap Into Your Personal Style

A favorite color, treasured art object or even a memento from a great vacation - any of these items can be the starting point for great design in your home. Find your design inspiration and use it to decorate in a way that speaks to your personal style. Here's some tips.

Published: 2007-11-20 00:00:00 read more...

Fix Up the Focus of Your Bathroom for Less

Many homes in America have a dirty little secret -- a dated, dingy, dark and dysfunctional bathroom. While the average return on investment of a bathroom remodel is 80 to 90 percent, the average cost -- $10,000 to $12,000 -- can easily put the brakes on the project before it's even started.

Published: 2007-11-19 00:00:00 read more...

Stylish and Eco-Friendly Floors for Every Room in the House

Floors are the forgotten workhouses in a home. They take a lot of abuse, stand up to wear and tear and withstand a variety of products and cleaning. When it is time to replace or upgrade the floors, stylish and eco-friendly options exist for every room of the house.

Published: 2007-11-15 00:00:00 read more...

Get More Out of Your ATV This Winter

As the long winter sets in, many all terrain vehicle owners are preparing their ATV for storage, but there are a growing number of ATV enthusiasts who desire to ride all year long. Now you can.

Published: 2007-11-15 00:00:00 read more...

Four Season Living Made Easy

Do you like to ski, snowshoe or snowmobile? Maybe you just enjoy the outdoors, even during the colder months. If you are looking for a way to enjoy nature in all seasons, but don't want to build a costly cabin, vacation home or addition, you do have options.

Published: 2007-11-13 00:00:00 read more...

Protect Wooden Yard Structures as Part of Fall Routine

Properly preparing wooden yard structures for winter protects them in much the same way as winterizing plants and water features and helps maintain their original appearance. Here are some tips that will help you do it.

Published: 2007-11-12 00:00:00 read more...

In Tight Housing Market, Remodels Catch Eyes, Add Value

As the nation's housing slump depresses home sales and prices, more owners look for ways to increase their homes' value and attract buyers. One of the best and most popular is remodeling, and here are some projects that pay off.

Published: 2007-11-12 00:00:00 read more...

Use Less Stuff While Shopping; Save Money and the Environment

If the desire to "go green" leaves you feeling a bit overwhelmed, keep it simple with a "less is more" attitude, advises Bob Lilienfeld, sustainability expert and author of "Use Less Stuff." You'll be amazed at how simple lifestyle changes can affect your impact on the environment and your budget. Here's how.

Published: 2007-11-02 00:00:00 read more...

Exploring the Mountain of Options for Mounting Your New Flat-Panel TV

So you finally bought that beautiful new flat-panel TV you've been eyeing for the past six months. Now what? Here are some ideas on how to put it on display.

Published: 2007-11-02 00:00:00 read more...

Happy Green Year

Out with the old and in with the new hits home for home improvement enthusiasts ready to tackle new projects in the New Year. Get rid of old, leaky windows or drafty doors, heave out furniture with no fashion sense and crack open a renovation project put off for years.

Published: 2007-11-01 00:00:00 read more...

Passive Light Gaining Ground in Green Building

Passive light is defined as light without the heat emitted by electrical sources. It's a form of natural light, but in this age of green building it has acquired an upscale name. No matter what it's called, it's still one of the best lighting methods available. It's free. It's effective. It's efficient; and it's easy to bring into homes through tubular skylights without flipping an electrical switch, especially to smaller interior areas that don't normally get a lot of natural light, including hallways, laundry rooms, closets, or windowless bathrooms.

Published: 2007-10-31 00:00:00 read more...

The Newest Thing in Green Building is an Ancient Material

Consumer demand for green homes has more builders and designers than ever before looking to create homes that are good for the environment and the occupants' health. While many modern solutions to decades-old environmental concerns rely on leading edge technology, green-minded homeowners are finding a fit with a time-tested product that has been around for 4,000 years: ceramic tile.

Published: 2007-10-31 00:00:00 read more...

It's Easy Being Green When Painting

As we become more aware of the impact our choices have on the world around us, there are plenty of simple do-it-yourself projects to embrace that can beautify a home while still being kind to the environment. Here's some ideas.

Published: 2007-10-30 00:00:00 read more...

From Record Albums to Maintenance-Free Homes, Vinyl and Baby Boomers Come Full Circle

Baby boomers want a maintenance-free lifestyle, allowing them to travel, socialize and pursue active lifestyles. As a result, boomers are increasingly choosing vinyl siding for their new homes, or to give their existing homes a much-needed facelift.

Published: 2007-10-29 00:00:00 read more...

How to Create Your Dream Fireplace

A fireplace is a focal point in a home. Not only is it a visually appealing central gathering place, but it provides a backdrop for cherished memories. From family portraits to opening presents during the holidays, there is an emotional connection to fireplaces. If you are contemplating adding a fireplace to your home, there's no need to feel overwhelmed by the process. Here's everything you need to know.

Published: 2007-10-26 00:00:00 read more...

Designing a Kitchen that Works Hard

If you're looking for ideas on how to make your kitchen more functional and stylish, consider integrating these options into your kitchen remodeling plan.

Published: 2007-10-23 00:00:00 read more...

Deck Talk for Gen X Homeowners

You're a member of the new, up-and-coming generation of homeowners: Generation X. You and your peers are rewriting home ownership and home improvement. Clearly, you won't be settling for the high-maintenance, homogenous-looking decks of your parents' hey day.

Published: 2007-10-23 00:00:00 read more...

Now is the Time to Get Your Home Ready for Next Spring

Before the next change of season arrives, there are a few things you should do to make sure your house will make it through the winter and have an easy transition to spring. Here are some of the more important tasks you should put on your to-do list.

Published: 2007-10-22 00:00:00 read more...

A New Year's Resolution You Should Definitely Keep

Time to sit down and come up with your official list of New Year's resolutions, and if you own your home, you should also make a resolution or two involving it. Her are some ideas for what should be on it.

Published: 2007-10-22 00:00:00 read more...

Safe Can be Stylish in the Bath

When it comes to updating your bathroom, style is most likely your first consideration. But it shouldn't be! After all, this frequently used room is where most home injuries occur. Luckily, safe can be stylish. Here's how.

Published: 2007-10-18 00:00:00 read more...

The Luxury Kitchen of Tomorrow Can Be Yours Today

The kitchen of tomorrow can be yours today if you make just a few changes. A good place to start is by replacing your conventional cook top and oven with an automatic cooker that can do everything from making omelets and cooking pasta to grilling steaks and baking cookies at the touch of a button.

Published: 2007-10-18 00:00:00 read more...

Winter Tips for Staying Warm and Comfy at Home

Winter brings lower temperatures and higher energy bills, as well as hectic schedules and guests coming to your home for holiday gatherings. Luckily, there are easy ways you can eliminate some household stresses to make the season more comfortable and enjoyable.

Published: 2007-10-15 00:00:00 read more...

For Guys, Luxury Equals Romance in Valentine's Gifts

When it comes to Valentine's Day gifts, guys like a little romance just as much as the gals do. And for many men, nothing says "romance" like luxury - from their grooming items right down to their power tools.

Published: 2007-10-12 00:00:00 read more...

'Green' Your Home with Natural, Sustainable American Hardwoods

Looking for an earth-friendly way to add beauty and warmth to your home? Green, sustainable American hardwood floors, cabinetry and trim add natural elegance to today's interiors.

Published: 2007-10-11 00:00:00 read more...

Easy, Do-it-Yourself Upgrades to Make Your Home More Functional

The age-old argument of form versus function need not apply while upgrading your home. There are easy, do-it-yourself ways to improve your living spaces while making your home more beautiful and functional. Whether your home is a small apartment or a large estate there are many simple, low-cost projects that can have a big impact.

Published: 2007-10-11 00:00:00 read more...

Decking DIY: Easy Tips for Extending the Decking Season

Most people associate spring or early summer with the decking season, but with the advent of backyard decks now becoming outdoor living spaces complete with covered areas, outdoor fireplaces and patio heaters, decking season now spans across several months not normally associated with enjoying outside spaces comfortably. Consider the following tips for your deck.

Published: 2007-10-01 00:00:00 read more...

Residing Your Home in the Manufactured Stone-Age

While new home sales have edged up in recent months, most experts agree that the housing market slump is far from over. Although it may not be the ideal time to try to sell your house, experts also say that you shouldn't just sit on your biggest investment either. Siding replacement consistently scores as one of the highest rated projects in terms of return on investment and owner enjoyment.

Published: 2007-09-27 00:00:00 read more...

Replace Your Home's Biggest Water Waster

Ready to make your home more environmentally friendly? If you're planning to join the ranks of those who want to do their part for Planet Earth, the bathroom is a good place to start. Here are five things to keep in mind as you shop for a new toilet.

Published: 2007-09-27 00:00:00 read more...

Modern Materials Ease Homeowners into Fall Deck Building

The end of summer no longer means the end of deck building season. Homeowners considering expanding their living space outdoors now have more choices than ever to build decks that look great and keep their families comfortable for longer periods of the year.

Published: 2007-09-17 00:00:00 read more...

Modern Materials Ease Homeowners into Deck Building

Cool weather no longer means the end of deck building season. Homeowners considering expanding their living space outdoors now have more choices than ever to build decks that look great and keep their families comfortable for longer periods of the year.

Published: 2007-09-17 00:00:00 read more...

How to Get Your Driveway in Tip Top Shape for the Winter

Winter is quickly approaching and that means time is running out for those all-important DIY projects that you need to complete before the first frost. Here's what you need to do to get your driveway ready for winter.

Published: 2007-09-13 00:00:00 read more...

Easy Tips for a Clean Workbench

Clutter is not a welcome part of any home, and one of the hardest areas to keep organized is the home workbench. With an array of tools, supplies and other necessary household items, it can easily become one of the messiest areas in the house. But don't dismiss this area as one that can't be tidy. Simple organizational steps can create a workspace that is useful and clean.

Published: 2007-09-12 00:00:00 read more...

Roof Now, Pay Later

Because your roof protects the rest of your home, keeping it functioning properly should be a top priority, but roof shingles have a finite lifespan and sooner or later will need to be replaced. Fortunately, homeowners have a number of financing options that won't require tapping into the kids' college funds.

Published: 2007-09-12 00:00:00 read more...

How to Give Your Garage Floor a New Life

Winter is the worst time of year for your garage, especially if you park your cars in it. Here's a way you can protect the concrete floor's integrity for years to come.

Published: 2007-09-10 00:00:00 read more...

Carpet Care Made Easy

Carpeting is a practical and aesthetic addition to any home. Utilized for its comfortable surface, it also beautifies interior spaces by adding to the décor. Proper upkeep and care ensures that your carpet will last for years to come, adding to your home's value.

Published: 2007-09-07 00:00:00 read more...

Greening Your Replacement Windows

With rising energy costs and the return of cooler weather fast approaching, many homeowners are actively looking for ways to reduce their monthly heating bills. You can make the biggest impact by looking out the window.

Published: 2007-09-06 00:00:00 read more...

Rodents Head Indoors for Fall and Winter

A cozy home is the perfect escape when temperatures begin to dip. Unfortunately, rodents think so too. Here's how to handle this pesky situation.

Published: 2007-09-05 00:00:00 read more...

Functional Luxury in the Bathroom

These days, what used to be the most forgotten room in the house is getting a lot of attention. One of the most popular trends in home improvement is to turn the bathroom into a luxurious getaway. Here are some ideas on how to do it.

Published: 2007-08-31 00:00:00 read more...

Protecting America from Damage by Birds

When the news first hit, it sounded like something out of a Hitchcockian nightmare: a build up of pigeon droppings may have contributed to the collapse of the I-35W bridge over the Mississippi River in Minneapolis. While many people may be aware of the health concerns associated with bird droppings, fewer fully understand the physical damage droppings can do to man-made structures.

Published: 2007-08-27 00:00:00 read more...

Protect Your Home with Secure Fences and Gates in Good Working Order

A fence is an investment most homeowners make only once or twice in their lives. Fences provide protection, privacy and "curb appeal." They can define property lines and enhance security, keeping children and pets in and unwelcome intruders out. A good fence, especially an isolation fence around a swimming pool, can also reduce homeowners' liability. Here's what to consider so you get the best fence for you.

Published: 2007-08-27 00:00:00 read more...

Eeeeck I Have Squeaks

As you delicately try to tiptoe past that familiar creak in the floor, your foot is inevitably drawn right to it and that terrible squeak is heard, loud as ever, throughout the house. It's happened to everybody, and at times it wakes up the newborn (or anyone else who is asleep), interrupts home-office calls, and lets everyone in the house know about your midnight snack run to the fridge.

Published: 2007-08-24 00:00:00 read more...

Made in the Shade: Certified Vinyl Siding Keeps Its Color

Want to cover your home in the latest shade of barn red or hunter green? Put away your paintbrush! Smart homeowners are finding that the easiest way to get -- and keep -- today's fresh colors is with certified vinyl siding.

Published: 2007-08-24 00:00:00 read more...

How to Find Great Windows -- It's All About Research

Replacing your home's existing windows or choosing windows for a new home is an important decision. The materials, features and options are vast and understanding which windows and patio doors may be best can be difficult. Here's advice on getting started and finding the right windows for your home.

Published: 2007-08-24 00:00:00 read more...

Coordinated Bathrooms Offer Luxury and Convenience

Homeowners are spending billions each year on residential improvements, but bathrooms have not always been top priority. The bathroom's utilitarian function once caused it to be seen as a room of necessity rather than luxury. A growing remodeling trend is creating luxurious retreats in the home. The bathroom's being viewed as a place of relaxation, and consumers are investing more time and money to create a place of seclusion and escape.

Published: 2007-08-24 00:00:00 read more...

How to Mouse-proof Naturally With Peppermint

As the weather turns cooler, mice begin to seek cozier surroundings -- and the perfect place to settle is your home. Even seemingly well-sealed houses are susceptible, as mice are excellent swimmers and climbers, are able to jump over a foot off the floor and can squeeze through openings as small as 1/4 of an inch. That's about the diameter of a pencil! Here's how to naturally repel them.

Published: 2007-08-23 00:00:00 read more...

Wood: A Renewable, Efficient, Clean Energy Source

With colder temperatures on the way, many people are considering more efficient and more economic ways to heat their homes. The roller coaster of energy prices combined with the strain on the planet's energy sources and the increased pollution can leave you feeling cold.

Published: 2007-08-23 00:00:00 read more...

Tips and Tactics to Finding the Right Exterior Door

A beautiful entryway can make a memorable first impression; it is after all one of the first things people see. It is also essential in boosting the curb appeal of a home when it's for sale, and can help add value through heating and cooling efficiencies. But when it comes to exterior doors, how do you know which one is the best for your home?

Published: 2007-08-23 00:00:00 read more...

Hot New Trend: Interior Décor for the Garage

The garage is very often the last place to be recognized as a space you can decorate. Indoors and out our houses are decorated with state-of-the-art updates -- even patios have outdoor kitchens and stylish stone underfoot. The garage is one of the highest traffic areas of your home, so adding the same style there increases square footage and value to your property.

Published: 2007-08-23 00:00:00 read more...

How to Avoid Big Homeowner Headaches This Winter

Colder weather will soon be setting in over many parts of the country. For homeowners, this means they'll be facing a long list of home improvement and maintenance activities in preparation for winter. Here are some tips to getting ready for winter.

Published: 2007-08-22 00:00:00 read more...

When It's Time to Upgrade Your Bathroom Lighting

Proper lighting is essential to the look and function of the room where you get ready to face the world everyday. So why do so many people put up with uneven shadows and having to strain to see their faces in the mirror every morning?

Published: 2007-08-22 00:00:00 read more...

How to Turn Your Favorite Room into a Luxurious Place to Spend the Winter

Normally, this change of season is a signal that you'll soon have to abandon any favorite room that isn't comfortably heated -- the three-season porch, or study in a cool location, for example. Make this the year you take back that space by adding a source of warmth and comfort. Here's an easy way to do it.

Published: 2007-08-21 00:00:00 read more...

The Three Rs for Your Roof This Fall: Review and Repair or Replace

Sandwiched between summer storms and winter snow, fall typically offers a nice break in the weather that's ideal for home repairs. To avoid heading into winter without the protection of a properly functioning roof, homeowners should use this season to assess their roof for damage and then prioritize any needed repairs. But, how do you evaluate your roof?

Published: 2007-08-20 00:00:00 read more...

Elegance and Nature Go Hand-in-Hand with Hybrid Log and Timber Homes

The hybrid home, which incorporates the wisdom of modern construction with log and timber accents, has become a popular choice for those planning to build. Here's what you need to know to create your own personalized hybrid home.

Published: 2007-08-17 00:00:00 read more...

Throwing Money Out the Window?

Ever wonder where your hard earned money is going? Take a look around your home at the windows and doors. Here's how to figure out if it's time to replace them.

Published: 2007-08-07 00:00:00 read more...

Next Generation Pressure-treated Lumber Boasts New Advantages

For many years, the most popular product for building fences, decks, planter boxes and other outdoor structures has been pressure-treated wood. But now there's a new alternative gaining in popularity.

Published: 2007-08-06 00:00:00 read more...

How to Keep Your Home Pest-free this Winter

Cooler weather is on the way and with it - unwelcome houseguests. And it won't just be your Uncle Bob and his brood of eight settling in for the holidays. Critters - from rodents to insects - will be looking to join the party too.

Published: 2007-08-02 00:00:00 read more...

Products For Your Home: Choice Words for Choosy Buyers

If you want to increase the value of your home by adding a few bells and whistles here and there, don't go into it blindly. To choose products that give the most bang for your buck, think in this order: health, wealth and happiness.

Published: 2007-08-01 00:00:00 read more...

Redwood: A Beautiful, Environmentally Smart Fencing Option

A fence can be one of the hardest working features of your home. The right fence will define your space, create privacy and shade, and retain its beauty while standing up to even the harshest weather. The perfect fence will also reflect your commitment to living "green." Here are some tips and reasons why redwood is the ideal wood for such a project.

Published: 2007-07-31 00:00:00 read more...

Alternative Heat Source Warms Homes and Hearts

Winter is coming and with it cooler temperatures. Contractors are gearing up to help homeowners renovate their heating systems for a more efficient, comfortable and cozy winter. Many situations, such as the age of your home and the heat source you have, call for creative heating solutions.

Published: 2007-07-30 00:00:00 read more...

Does Your Garage Need Organizing?

Garage organization projects are one of the fastest growing segments of the home renovation industry. Here are some tips for getting yours in order.

Published: 2007-07-26 00:00:00 read more...

Renovation of Unfinished Basement Creates Two-Bath, Home-within-a-Home for Extended Family

Bathroom additions rank among the most common home improvements, and the investment almost always pays off at resale. But when it comes to basement renovations, the expense and mess of digging for plumbing drainage lines makes adding a bathroom financially impractical for many homeowners. As a result, homes with plenty of sub-level promise remain underutilized.

Published: 2007-07-25 00:00:00 read more...

Cut Kitchen Chaos with Orderly Cabinets

Over the years, the kitchen has morphed from a space strictly used to chop, dice, chat and dine, into a domestic sanctuary where all household activity takes place. This increase in activity has made the kitchen a very busy place. In order to keep kitchen chaos to a minimum, cabinet manufacturers are offering more time-saving accessories to make cabinetry more functional and practical without compromising style. Here are some tips to organize your kitchen.

Published: 2007-07-25 00:00:00 read more...

Affordable Upgrades Put Your Home's Best Face Forward

Buying a home is often the largest single purchase you'll ever make. But after investing all that hard-earned money just to get inside the door, how can you add value to your investment without breaking the bank? Whether it's customizing to fit your personal style or adding to its durability for years to come, choosing a few affordable upgrades will help you put your home's best face forward.

Published: 2007-07-24 00:00:00 read more...

Make Design Easy: Putting Fun in Kitchen, Bath Remodeling

When starting on a kitchen or bathroom remodeling project, finding inspiration, good ideas and quality products can sometimes be a daunting challenge. It's easy to get overwhelmed by the process. But when you take a step back and get organized, the experience can be fun.

Published: 2007-07-24 00:00:00 read more...

Add Living Space Without All the Headaches of a Remodel

With the average home addition now costing upwards of $74,000, according to Remodeling Magazine's "2006 Cost vs. Value Report," there's a more cost effective way to add more living space to your home. Purchase a yurt.

Published: 2007-07-23 00:00:00 read more...

Small but Dramatic Kitchen Changes Can Really Make a Difference

You can make some dramatic changes in the kitchen just by focusing on one of the attention-getting trends highlighted at the annual Kitchen Industry Show and Convention in Las Vegas -- the lighting.

Published: 2007-07-18 00:00:00 read more...

How to Choose an Extension Pole for Your DIY Project

Extension poles are very versatile tools that allow you to safely reach high access areas to complete many different tasks. R.D. Newman, inventor and founder of Mr. LongArm, developed and manufactured the first extension pole in 1958. He saw the need for painters to reach high places without having to use a ladder. Today, there are many different styles of extension poles to choose from and they are used for much more than just painting. But how do you decide which one will best fit your needs?

Published: 2007-07-09 00:00:00 read more...

Gazebos: The New Gathering Place Away from Home

Many homeowners wish to turn their backyards into outdoor living spaces, bringing indoor comforts into the fresh outdoor air. Gazebos are uniquely suited to do this by providing a covered retreat that adds distinction to the outdoor living space.

Published: 2007-07-06 00:00:00 read more...

'Greening' the Outdoors Begins in Your Own Backyard

Nurturing the environment starts at home, right in your backyard. There are countless steps the entire family can take to develop and care for their outdoor haven.

Published: 2007-06-25 00:00:00 read more...

Mastering the Mix of Bathroom Design

Trendy designs for the home combine furnishings from a variety of periods and materials. Finding the right mix takes confidence, a spirit of adventure and savvy eye. This is particularly true in the bath. Whether home spa, master suite, powder room or his and her space, the bathroom requires practical design solutions given its utilitarian function. But it's a style matchmaker's field of dreams where virtually anything goes thanks to today's products and designs.

Published: 2007-06-22 00:00:00 read more...

Innovations Make it Easier than Ever to Do It Yourself

Home improvement by homeowners has evolved. Innovative, high-tech ways to add curb appeal are the hottest new trend in the world of do-it-yourself. Here are some cutting-edge innovative products homeowners are using.

Published: 2007-06-22 00:00:00 read more...

Choosing a Home-Comfort System Based on How and Where You Live

Selecting a heating and air conditioning system that meets your family's needs can be tricky. Here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing a new heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system based on how and where your family lives.

Published: 2007-06-22 00:00:00 read more...

Yesterday's Luxurious Home Accents are Today's Quick and Easy Upgrades

Decorative accents like crown molding, chair rails and ceiling medallions can give your dining room, den or living room an elegant upgrade without investing in a whole room makeover. And one of them is easier to install for the do-it-yourselfer than the others.

Published: 2007-06-18 00:00:00 read more...

Make Summer Home Improvement Projects Quick and Easy

As the weather keeps getting warmer, home improvement projects keep getting added to many people's to-do lists. From cleaning out gutters to painting to cleaning the house from top to bottom, the project list seems never ending. Here are some new tools and tips to make the most common summer home improvement projects a breeze so you can enjoy the warm weather with family and friends.

Published: 2007-06-15 00:00:00 read more...

Don't Let Extreme Weather Leave Your Home in the Dark

In a world of high dependence on technology, an increasing number of homeowners and small business owners are installing a permanent standby power generator -- and even more are considering one. Here's what you should consider before buying one.

Published: 2007-06-15 00:00:00 read more...

How To Protect Your Home From Mother Nature

Hurricanes are the storms that make headlines, but homeowners in almost every region of the country need to focus on storm preparedness this year. To help protect a home, choosing the right storm protection features for windows and doors is essential.

Published: 2007-06-14 00:00:00 read more...

Nature's Fury: How to Protect Your Home

Hurricanes are the storms that make headlines, but homeowners in almost every region of the country need to focus on storm preparedness this year. To help protect a home, choosing the right storm protection features for windows and doors is essential.

Published: 2007-06-14 00:00:00 read more...

DIY Projects for Increasing Your Home's Resale Value

With housing prices on the decline, homeowners are looking for ways to ensure top dollar when selling their homes. There are many DIY projects homeowners can easily do in a weekend that will increase the value of their property.

Published: 2007-06-12 00:00:00 read more...

Home Sellers Yield High Returns Investing in Curb Appeal

Realtors in a nationwide survey say replacing your garage door prior to listing your home can increase its curb appeal and the asking price -- anywhere from one to four percent. That's no surprise considering homeowner demand for more storage space has made three-car garages an architectural standard, not to mention, a major design focal point.

Published: 2007-06-11 00:00:00 read more...

Weekend Painting Projects Made Easy

Outdoor painting projects can be intimidating. But now that the weather is warm, why not take them head on? In fact, with the right tools and planning, you could complete a project in just one weekend. Here are some examples to get you started, so you can paint quickly and easily, leaving you the rest of your weekend to enjoy your yard.

Published: 2007-06-11 00:00:00 read more...

Summer Projects Made Simple

Summer is the time of year when outdoor projects, big and small, come to our attention. Small improvements such as fixing concrete steps, sealing driveway cracks and straightening fence posts can make a big difference in your home's overall appearance or resale value. If you know how to do it right, these kinds of DIY projects can easily be finished on a Saturday morning.

Published: 2007-06-11 00:00:00 read more...

Retractable Awnings Add Space without the Costly Addition

When looking at summer home improvements, many times we think about adding an addition to expand our livable space. But building an addition can be inconvenient, costly and take a long time. A new trend with consumers is to add retractable awnings to their home's exterior.

Published: 2007-06-08 00:00:00 read more...

Kitchen Problems Solved

Building your kitchen seemed like it would be fun and easy, until you ran into an unanticipated problem. The winners of this year's "Design with Decora' Contest" illustrate how smart design can solve some of the most common problems kitchen builders and remodelers face.

Published: 2007-06-07 00:00:00 read more...

How to DIY Like a Pro

Home improvement season has arrived, and as do-it-yourselfers take on their much anticipated projects, they may hit a few road blocks along the way. DIY home improvement is challenging and, even with the best intentions, it's difficult to attain professional-looking results. Lisa LaPorta, design expert and co-host of HGTV's "Designed to Sell," offers the following tips to give DIY warriors an edge on their next renovation endeavor...

Published: 2007-06-07 00:00:00 read more...

Conservation Starts at Home: Everyday Tips for Going Green

Environmentalism is here in full force, and by the looks of things, it's here to stay. If you are looking for a way to go green around the house, start by taking steps to conserve water and energy. Try out these easy ways to care for the earth, enjoy your home and save money.

Published: 2007-06-06 00:00:00 read more...

Protect Your Roof from Seasonal Storms

It's officially storm season and, depending on the region in which you live, hurricanes, tornadoes, high winds and hail can cause tremendous damage to your home.

Published: 2007-06-04 00:00:00 read more...

Learn How to Turn Any Back Yard into the Ultimate Outdoor Living Experience

With home improvement season upon us, homeowners are eager to make their outdoor living areas as inviting as the inside of their homes. Before visiting the local home and garden center or hiring a professional to create a backyard paradise, consider taking the DIY approach.

Published: 2007-05-31 00:00:00 read more...

Your Patio Can Look Great and Give Back to the Environment

During the last year alone, more than 290 million scrap tires ended up in landfills according the Environmental Protection Agency. Adding to the volume of municipal waste is an ever greater percentage of plastic household items, about 26.7 million tons per year. As our available landfill space shrinks, finding new ways to reuse and reduce this waste will become increasingly important.

Published: 2007-05-30 00:00:00 read more...

Women Increasingly Drive Home Improvement Industry

Men have traditionally taken the lead on home improvement projects -- in many cases at the insistence of the women in their lives. But today, women are not only involved in the decision-making process of what needs to be done and whether to do-it-yourself or hire it done, but are also making the actual purchases. Women account for more than $70 billion worth of purchases in the home improvement industry, up from approximately $55 billion in 1995.

Published: 2007-05-30 00:00:00 read more...

Curbside Wow: Boost Your Home's Look With New Shingles

If you buy a new car, you don't drive around with bald tires. When you buy a new suit, you don't wear it with old tennis shoes. So, when it comes time to remodel your home's exterior, don't forget the roof. Updating the roof can have a tremendous impact on the overall look of your home. With that in mind, you should approach your exterior color choices with the same care given when choosing interior colors.

Published: 2007-05-30 00:00:00 read more...

Simple Tips for Saving Water

When it comes to water conservation, there are many things you can do to make a difference, especially in the bathroom. Daily habits started today will keep water in supply for generations if you follow a few simple guidelines.

Published: 2007-05-25 00:00:00 read more...

Building Your Dream Home? Don't Forget to Look Behind the Walls

Imagine the excitement and anticipation of building a new home. After a long wait and hundreds of thousands of dollars, the day arrives when you unlock the door and step inside. As you walk in, the floor creaks and feels bouncy. Everything else seems perfect, but a squeaky floor makes you wonder about the quality of the home. You can avoid this and similar disappointments by taking time up front to ask your builder some simple, yet critical, questions about the home's structural framing.

Published: 2007-05-25 00:00:00 read more...

Vinyl Windows: Not All the Same

Over 50 percent of windows purchased today are vinyl windows. Choosing a superior vinyl window can be difficult if you don't know what to look for. It can prove even more frustrating if you purchase and install your vinyl windows only to find that they're poor quality, uneven and already fading in appearance. You might also face the realization that a bigger name is not always better and price is only one of several considerations.

Published: 2007-05-25 00:00:00 read more...

How to Choose the Right Painting Supplies

So you've decided to tackle a painting project. Maybe it was the drab color in the kitchen that finally got to you, or the dated design in the bathroom that did nothing to brighten your mornings. A new coat of paint will freshen it up without breaking the budget, but do you have the right supplies? Getting the correct tools before you start can save you time, and, in the end, produce a higher-quality result.

Published: 2007-05-24 00:00:00 read more...

New Solar Technology Helps Homeowners Save Money

If you're both eco-conscious and money-conscious, it's time to take a fresh look at solar energy. You could save up to 50 percent on your water heating bills and qualify for federal solar energy tax credits.

Published: 2007-05-24 00:00:00 read more...

Improving the Quality of Natural Light and Ventilation with Skylights

Everyone talks about the outdoor environment but homeowners who are paying attention to the green building trend sweeping the country are taking indoor air quality just as seriously.

Published: 2007-05-23 00:00:00 read more...

How to Paint Like a Pro

You're standing in the aisle at your local paint dealer or hardware store trying to decide which brand of paint to buy for your living room remodel. Naturally, you want to save money, so you gravitate towards the less costly product. But top quality finishes are much easier to work with and offer superior long-term performance.

Published: 2007-05-23 00:00:00 read more...

Even Plumbing Systems Should be Green

Seems like the whole home building industry is going "green" these days. There are energy-efficient doors and windows, high-efficiency refrigerators, redesigned toilets and showerheads that use less water. Even behind the walls we have "greener" options.

Published: 2007-05-23 00:00:00 read more...

Home Improvement 101

Is it time to tackle a home improvement project that will boost both resale value and your enjoyment of your house? What home improvements will provide the biggest returns? And how should you pay for the improvements? Here are some tips.

Published: 2007-05-23 00:00:00 read more...

Style With a Conscience

Functional used to be the best word to describe "green" home design and décor. But, luckily, "green" has been undergoing a glamorous transformation. With more demand for environmentally-friendly products, designers and manufacturers are introducing upscale and luxurious options that prove stylish and "good for the earth" can go hand in hand.

Published: 2007-05-22 00:00:00 read more...

Customized Kitchen Cabinetry for the Ultimate in Organization

One of the beauties of custom cabinetry is the ability to create the look you want with the storage solutions you need. Consumers remodeling or building a kitchen crave the ability to maximize space options. Not all kitchen cabinetry allows for solutions that are personalized to your special requirements.

Published: 2007-05-22 00:00:00 read more...

Banish a Boring Bath

If your bathroom looks better with the door closed, it may be time for an update. Make some big impact changes without spending big bucks. A trip to your home improvement store and a weekend of elbow grease is all you need to transform your bath from boring to beautiful.

Published: 2007-05-22 00:00:00 read more...

Take the Chill Out of Buying a New Refrigerator

Buying a refrigerator can be a chilling experience. When you think about it, it is a pretty big investment of time, money and effort. With so many brands and features to choose from, selecting the right appliance can be daunting. You can make it a more pleasant venture by getting educated about the variety of options before visiting your local appliance retailer.

Published: 2007-05-21 00:00:00 read more...

Get the Most Value from Your Deck Project

More and more, outdoor living is no longer considered a luxury, but a way of life for homeowners across the country. Families are spending more time at home enjoying the freedom of relaxing and entertaining on their backyard deck.

Published: 2007-05-16 00:00:00 read more...

How to Add Drama to The Bath

Small changes in your bathroom can make a big difference in refreshing the busiest room in the house. Focus on the details, and you'll be able to customize this space, making it more stylish while reflecting your personal taste.

Published: 2007-05-16 00:00:00 read more...

Wake Up a Tired Front Entry with a New Front Door

The old saying "You can't judge a book by its cover" isn't always true in the housing market. A weary-looking home with a tired front door is sometimes a clear signal to the neighborhood, and to prospective homebuyers, that a house is in need of major repairs or updating.

Published: 2007-05-16 00:00:00 read more...

Saving Money With Energy Efficient Windows

When newlyweds Rob and Holly Fanjoy purchased their 1955 Cape Cod home, they were not wearing rose-colored glasses. They knew the 1,100-square foot house needed extensive work. One of their first challenges was to replace the drafty original wood windows. More than 50 years old, the leaky single-glazed windows were no match for frosty Michigan winters.

Published: 2007-05-15 00:00:00 read more...

Create an Outdoor Living Space in Your Own Backyard

Today, almost everything you do inside your home is coming outdoors. From showers to kitchen sinks and everything in between, today's homeowners are utilizing the backyard to get more life out of their homes.

Published: 2007-05-10 00:00:00 read more...

Trying to Sell Your Home? Give it Scentmosphere!

(ARA) - Looking to sell your home? All you hear these days in the news and from friends is how bad the housing market is, and for good reason. There are too many existing houses on the market, builders have had to get more aggressive in selling new homes, interest rates and gas prices are up … these are not ideal conditions.

Published: 2007-05-10 00:00:00 read more...

Create an Outdoor Living Space in Your Own Back Yard

Today, almost everything you do inside your home is coming outdoors. From showers to kitchen sinks and everything in between, today's homeowners are utilizing the back yard to get more life out of their homes.

Published: 2007-05-10 00:00:00 read more...

Easy Steps to Lower Your Cooling Bills

With hot summer weather just around the corner, now is the time to give your home a "check-up." Here are six tips from the Comfort Institute to make sure your air conditioning bills don't blow your cool!

Published: 2007-05-09 00:00:00 read more...

High Tech Decks: Gen X Homeowners Fuel a Trend

Pragmatic, practical and particular, Generation X homeowners want to spend their free time relaxing, not working. When it comes to home maintenance, less is definitely more.

Published: 2007-05-09 00:00:00 read more...

Winterize Your Home's Exterior with Easy DIY Steps

Nothing protects a home's exterior like a new coat of paint. Why then do so many of us put off this task? What seems complicated can be easy with a little planning and the right tools.

Published: 2007-05-07 00:00:00 read more...

Twelve Steps for Easy Home Painting

Nothing freshens a home's exterior appearance like a fresh coat of paint. Why then do so many of us put off this task? What seems complicated can be easy with a little planning and the right tools.

Published: 2007-05-07 00:00:00 read more...

Selling Your Home in a Buyer's Market

By now you've read the headlines announcing the current housing rut. Too many homes are on the market, causing slow sales and falling asking prices. While it's the perfect time to buy a home, it is certainly more challenging to sell your home. But don't despair.

Published: 2007-05-07 00:00:00 read more...

Staged to Sell In a Soft Real Estate Market

Selling your home can be a challenge that may seem especially daunting in a softer real estate market. If you decide now is the time to sell, there are several aspects that can make your home more attractive to potential buyers. Following this advice may help justify your asking price and attract buyers.

Published: 2007-05-03 00:00:00 read more...

Tips for a Safe Summer Season on Your Deck

Gas prices are on the rise again, the number of people traveling is down and families are choosing to spend more time at home enjoying their decks. And with so many accessories available that make the yard an oasis -- from solar fountains and fire pit tables to stainless gas grills -- the deck extends the living space and creates an at-home vacation spot.

Published: 2007-04-23 00:00:00 read more...

How to Better Protect Your Home and Family from Fire

More than 3,000 American lives are lost each year in home fires. Many of those deaths could have been easily prevented. The use of a smoke alarm and fire sprinkler system together reduces the risk of death in a home fire by more than 80 percent.

Published: 2007-04-20 00:00:00 read more...

Classic Outdoor Living Made Easy

If you're thinking about making some home improvements this year, consider increasing the value of your home with the addition of a deck. A deck can give you more living space and bring the feeling of the great outdoors right to your back yard.

Published: 2007-04-20 00:00:00 read more...

Ten Easy Steps for Reconditioning Your Fence or Deck

As the weather gets warmer, we begin to spend more time outdoors. The best part of having a yard is enjoying it during these months, but when items in your yard such as your deck and fence look worn and drab, it takes away from the pleasure.

Published: 2007-04-18 00:00:00 read more...

Five Quick Fixes That Improve Curb Appeal for Under $500

It's a known fact: Good-looking, well-maintained homes sell faster (and command a higher price) than houses that appear worn down and tired. In today's attractive roller coaster real-estate market enhancing curb appeal -- the first impression of a house as seen from the street -- can mean the difference between attracting serious buyers and resulting in a sale, or having the property languish for months as unsold.

Published: 2007-04-17 00:00:00 read more...

It's Not Your Father's Garage Door

In the "Leave it to Beaver" era, garage doors were little more than heavy slabs of wood that sealed your garage shut from the elements. White, heavy and mostly flat. Little had changed to garage doors by the time the "Brady Bunch" arrived in the 1970s or even the "Cosby" generation years later.

Published: 2007-04-16 00:00:00 read more...

Improve the Curb Appeal of Your Home with Outdoor Lighting

Every year, as spring arrives, homeowners busy themselves with an array of home improvement projects. Beautiful trees, gardens and landscaping are once again a source of enjoyment and home beautification. But according to the lighting experts of Nite Time Decor, a little outdoor lighting can increase the value of the investments these homeowners make in their landscaping.

Published: 2007-04-12 00:00:00 read more...

Designing High-Tech, High-Style Bathrooms

Gadgetry and good design are inseparable today. Every room in the house can be smart, stylish and comfortable -- even the bathroom, which is evolving from a functional space into a personal spa.

Published: 2007-04-10 00:00:00 read more...

Simple Ways to Save Energy on a Shoestring

We all want to do our part to save energy, but time and money often prevent us from making energy-efficient home improvements. If we lack the time to research such projects and the funds to complete them, they tend to remain on our never-ending "things-to-do" list.

Published: 2007-04-04 00:00:00 read more...

How to Keep Your Family Cool and Comfy This Summer

Ahh, summer. It's time for family vacations, warm-weather activities and a much-needed break from school. It's also time for rising temperatures that can make your family lose their cool and make your home feel uncomfortable.

Published: 2007-04-03 00:00:00 read more...

Have You Inspected Your Fences and Gates Lately?

Weather extremes over the past winter were brutal on exterior landscaping, even in areas with relatively few storms. Fencing around the home was especially vulnerable to weather-related damage. Rain hastens rust, and ground freezing and thawing or high winds can affect gate alignment.

Published: 2007-04-03 00:00:00 read more...

How to Protect Your Home From Pesky Birds

Birds and associated diseases are hot news right now. People worry and wonder about bird flu jumping species -- but in fact there are already over 60 different human diseases associated with birds and their droppings, some of which can be fatal.

Published: 2007-04-02 00:00:00 read more...

An Easy Upgrade that Will Give Your Home a Custom Feel

Ever walked into a model home and been wowed by all the custom upgrades? You know, the custom spice rack in the kitchen, the built-in bookcases in the den, those special alcoves above and around the fireplace -- and the flat panel TV that's flush against the wall in the family room?

Published: 2007-04-02 00:00:00 read more...

Transforming Your Old Home into Your Dream Home

It wasn't uncommon a few years ago to upgrade your home by simply visiting your local realtor to find out what bigger and better homes were available in the area.

Published: 2007-03-29 00:00:00 read more...

Has Your Guest Bath Overstayed Its Welcome?

If your guest bath is trapped in the past -- don't despair! There are some quick and inexpensive changes you can make that will trick your guests into thinking you spent the time and money on a major remodel. Just follow this timeline and soon you will be showing the old bath the door.

Published: 2007-03-27 00:00:00 read more...

Boosting Your Home's Bottom Line: Big Ideas for Making a Good First Impression

A home's exterior makes or breaks the first impression when prospective buyers see your home initially. If you're looking to add value to your home without spending a lot of money, consider enhancing its curb appeal with a new front door. A spruced-up entryway can add as much as $24,000 to a home's perceived value, according to research commissioned by Therma-Tru Doors.

Published: 2007-03-26 00:00:00 read more...

These Boots Were Made for Walking - on the Roof

A lot of home owners won't go up on the roof to do those simple jobs like retrieving a lost Frisbee, cleaning the gutters or putting up Christmas lights because they're afraid they'll fall; but Roland Thompson of Arlington, Va., feels as comfortable on his rooftop as he does walking on the ground. It wasn't always like that for him though.

Published: 2007-03-23 00:00:00 read more...

Planning to Build? Make Sure You Hire the Right Architect

When you make the decision to build a new home, there are a lot of things to consider. Among them, is the neighborhood right for you? What kind of lot do you want? Will you be close enough to work, school and shopping?

Published: 2007-03-22 00:00:00 read more...

Environmentally Friendly House Cleaning

Warmer temperatures remind us of the annual rite of seasonal cleaning. They invite open windows to freshen the air, picking up winter debris strewn through the yard, and cleaning house.

Published: 2007-03-20 00:00:00 read more...

Environmentally Friendly Home Spring Cleaning

With spring just around the corner, warmer temperatures remind us of the annual rite of spring cleaning. It invites open windows to freshen the air, picking up winter debris strewn through the yard, and cleaning house.

Published: 2007-03-20 00:00:00 read more...

Life Outdoors: The Elements of the Do-It-Yourself Backyard

When it's time for the "outdoor season," garden shows and home improvement stores are a great place to get inspired, but the sheer variety of what's available can be nearly mind-boggling.

Published: 2007-03-16 00:00:00 read more...

Increase Your Home's Value with Exterior Home Improvements

Spring -- typically a time for cleaning and de-cluttering -- is just around the corner. In addition to sprucing up your home's interior, you should also think about what you can do outside the walls of your house.

Published: 2007-03-16 00:00:00 read more...

How Savvy Are You When it Comes to Choosing a Plumbing System?

Without a doubt, today's homeowners are better educated than ever before. But people often focus on the color of their carpet and cabinets and overlook choices for basic necessities. Homeowners can avoid problems down the road if they take a few moments to become educated about their plumbing.

Published: 2007-03-16 00:00:00 read more...

New Technologies Mean More Bang for Entertainment Bucks

Shortly after good old Alex Bell first transmitted the human voice, people realized the entertainment value of new technology. In a historical blink of an eye, technology, ever evolving and improving, became an integral part of our leisure life.

Published: 2007-03-15 00:00:00 read more...

Windows Vista Brings Your Favorite Entertainment to Life

Growing up, many people had television consoles that were a marvel of home electronics. People had their TV, radio and stereo all in one beautiful cabinet. They showed it off to friends and loved having all the entertainment in one attractive piece of furniture.

Published: 2007-03-15 00:00:00 read more...

Want the Job Done Right? Rent the Right Tools

A lot of people have big home improvement projects on their wish lists. Maybe you want to build a deck, pressure wash the house exterior, install a retaining wall around the flower garden, build a storage shed for the lawn mower and tools cluttering your garage or finally take care of that backyard drainage problem.

Published: 2007-03-13 00:00:00 read more...

A New Bathroom in a Snap!

Remodeling bathrooms are often at the top of the home-improvement list for do-it-yourself enthusiasts. But even seasoned DIY'ers find the task daunting, particularly when it comes to the bath and shower area. Today there are many options to make this project easier.

Published: 2007-03-13 00:00:00 read more...

Small Changes, Big Design Differences

Small changes in your bathroom or kitchen can make a big difference in refreshing the busiest room in the house. In the bathroom, older toilets and out-of-date faucets are among the easiest items to replace for a quick face-lift. In the kitchen, new faucets provide a fresher, cleaner look.

Published: 2007-03-13 00:00:00 read more...

How to Save Money While Tackling Your "Honey-do" List

The warmer temperatures outside signal more than just a change of season. Do-it-yourselfers everywhere are itching to get started on their "Honey-do" lists. The lawn needs aerating, the front walk needs pressure washing, the gutters need cleaning, those cracked tiles in the foyer need replacing and the list goes on.

Published: 2007-03-13 00:00:00 read more...

Little Change, Big Difference!

One bold splash of color can warm up an entire room. One perfectly placed piece of art can brighten up an entire foyer. It's amazing the difference little changes can make. It's even more amazing when little changes pay you back -- big time! With a nip here and a tuck there, you can enjoy the comforts of your home with some extra cha-ching in your wallet.

Published: 2007-03-12 00:00:00 read more...

Small Fixes that Make a Big Difference in Your Home

One bold splash of color can warm up an entire room. One perfectly placed piece of art can brighten up an entire foyer. It's amazing the difference little changes can make. It's even more amazing when little changes pay you back -- big time! With a nip here and a tuck there, you can enjoy the comforts of your home with some extra cha-ching in your wallet.

Published: 2007-03-12 00:00:00 read more...

VSI Certified Installers Bring Out the Best in Your Home

If you're thinking about a makeover for your home this spring, vinyl siding offers a valuable investment for your new exterior. According to "Remodeling" magazine, homeowners who re-side their homes with vinyl typically recover more than 95 percent of the cost when selling their homes.

Published: 2007-03-09 00:00:00 read more...

Japanese Beetles: A Gardener's Worst Enemy

Japanese Beetles can't bite people because their jaws aren't strong enough to break through human skin. However, Japanese Beetles chomp on everything else including some 238 different kinds of foliage.

Published: 2007-03-08 00:00:00 read more...

Have a Japanese Beetle Problem? Here's How to Get Rid of Them

Japanese Beetles can't bite people because their jaws aren't strong enough to break through human skin. However, Japanese Beetles chomp on everything else including some 238 different kinds of foliage.

Published: 2007-03-08 00:00:00 read more...

Model Home Tricks Help Maximize Your Home's Value

Perfectly manicured, emerald green lawns flanked by floral beds. Acres of granite counter top and gleaming stainless steel appliances. And everywhere you look are surfaces clean enough to eat off - that's the appeal of the model home.

Published: 2007-03-07 00:00:00 read more...

Things are Looking Up! The Ceiling's Role in Your Room's Decor

It's hanging over your head every day - a bland, lackluster ceiling. The ceiling is often one of the most overlooked areas of a room when it comes to interior decorating. Yet if you look beyond the popcorn ceiling and water stains, you may find your ceiling can be an outlet for your most inspired creativity.

Published: 2007-03-07 00:00:00 read more...

Perfect Home Survey Says Garage Doors Must Be Durable

When it comes to garage doors, homeowners want durability first and foremost. Homeowners across the country have spoken in the Perfect Home Survey. The largest number of respondents, 45 percent, said durability is the number-one attribute they look for in a garage door, followed by appearance and energy efficiency.

Published: 2007-03-07 00:00:00 read more...

Renovating First Impressions

In the age of the popular home makeover television shows many homeowners may be intimidated by home "makeovers" or renovations. But they don't need to be.

Published: 2007-03-07 00:00:00 read more...

How to Handle a Home Remodel

Whoever coined the phrase "a man's home is his castle" probably never imagined how close to true that phrase would become in modern home building. "More" seems to be the operative word in new home design these days, from more living space and rooms to increased upgrades, bells and whistles.

Published: 2007-03-06 00:00:00 read more...

Window, Roof Window, and Skylight Selection Basics

Homeowners are sometimes reluctant to cut a hole in a perfectly good roof. They don't question cutting dozens of holes in the walls for windows and doors, and more holes in the roof for chimneys, ventilation fans or plumbing vent pipes. So what's so scary about a hole for a skylight?

Published: 2007-03-06 00:00:00 read more...

Why You Should Shop Online for Your Next Home Improvement Project

The last time you went into a store seeking help for a home improvement project, what kind of experience did you have? If it was anything like what happened to Doug and Diana Johnson of Battle Lake, Minn., it wasn't good.

Published: 2007-03-06 00:00:00 read more...

Inexpensive Remodeling Tips to Get Your House Ready to Sell

As many homeowners prepare to put their homes on the market, they often realize to get more "bang for their buck" they may need to do some remodeling. According to Realtor Magazine Online, the average cost for a mid-range kitchen remodel in 2006 was $52,000, while a mid-range bathroom remodel cost about $13,000.

Published: 2007-03-05 00:00:00 read more...

Six Steps to Successful Outdoor Painting Projects

Home improvement tasks can be intimidating, and part of your to-do list most likely includes painting projects. As the weather begins to turn warmer outside, outdoor painting projects become key.

Published: 2007-03-05 00:00:00 read more...

Professional Advice for a Top-Notch Lawn

Top-notch gardening tools, expert landscaping advice and high-speed Internet -- whether gardening is your life's passion or just a now-and-then hobby, today's homeowners have everything they need to maintain a beautiful lawn and garden right at their fingertips.

Published: 2007-03-02 00:00:00 read more...

Personal Finance: Shop for Credit Card Rewards Program That Offers Best Pay Back

Rewards credit card programs have enjoyed an unheard level of popularity over the past few years. The tide may be turning though as the level of frustration with many of the most popular programs, such as airline miles, is growing.

Published: 2007-03-02 00:00:00 read more...

A Buyer's Market and Remodeling Wave Benefits Everyone

The advantage typically tilts toward those buying homes in today's housing market. Interest rates are low and housing inventories are up. But the tricky part for everyone is that buyers are often also the sellers and typically depend on selling their existing home to buy a new one.

Published: 2007-03-01 00:00:00 read more...

Easy as 1-2-3: Get an Upscale Shower without Remodeling

Tired of starting your day with a lackluster shower? Want to upgrade to the invigorating showers you see in magazines or hotels without remodeling your bath? Luckily, creating a luxurious shower environment is as easy as 1-2-3. By simply upgrading your shower with a new showerhead, you'll have the robust experience you've always dreamed of for your daily escape in no time at all.

Published: 2007-02-28 00:00:00 read more...

How to Easily Clean Your Deck

Spring is right around the corner and behind it summer fun. It's the time to clean up after the long winter and prepare the yard for enjoyment. Most people don't build a beautiful deck so they can spend time cleaning it, but proper deck care is essential to maintain its appearance and the life of the wood.

Published: 2007-02-27 00:00:00 read more...

This Spring Work Smarter, Not Harder

Spring; with it comes a long list of lawn and garden chores. Whether it's planting a new garden, taking on a landscape project, or just completing routine spring lawn and garden maintenance, already time-starved homeowners can spend countless hours working around the yard rather than enjoying the warmer weather.

Published: 2007-02-22 00:00:00 read more...

An Extreme Exterior Makeover on a Not-So-Extreme Budget

How does a real-life home makeover with a celebrity designer play out when the television cameras aren't rolling?

Published: 2007-02-20 00:00:00 read more...

How to Put that New Flat Panel TV on Display

If you don't already have one, this spring would be a great time to invest in a flat screen TV. Prices have come down dramatically on these high-tech wonders, and if you watch a lot of television, you're sure to appreciate the crisper picture, better color and sound.

Published: 2007-02-16 00:00:00 read more...

Adding a Bath Where None Exists?

If a bathroom addition is on your project list, consider a Saniflo above-floor plumbing system -- especially for a basement remodel or any other room where you don't have accessible, below-floor plumbing.

Published: 2007-02-14 00:00:00 read more...

Top Products Stand Out At 2007 International Builder's Show

Professional builders and contractors always look for anything that can make jobs easier and one good place to find them is the annual International Builder's Show in Orlando.

Published: 2007-02-08 00:00:00 read more...

Facelift for the Middle-Aged Door

These days, baby boomers aren't the only ones worried about showing their age. When it comes to the middle-aged home, the front door is often the first to go.

Published: 2007-02-06 00:00:00 read more...

Want a Great Looking Lawn Without All the Hassle?

It's the age-old question: where does our money go? Although there's not always a simple answer, the annual Consumer Expenditure Survey from the Bureau of Labor Statistics provides a representative response for the average American household. And the annual survey not only presents hard numbers, but also suggests trends for future consumer spending.

Published: 2007-02-02 00:00:00 read more...

Cutting Edge Technology Makes Grass Cutting Easier

Industry forecasters are optimistic that lawn and garden maintenance will continue to take precedence with American families this spring -- the season when most homeowners focus on their yard work. And with the latest outdoor power equipment featuring advanced technology, it's easy to see why.

Published: 2007-02-02 00:00:00 read more...

How to Eliminate Your Weed Problems

Spending time on your yard making your landscape look superb can add to your house's curb appeal as well as your own enjoyment. But nothing is worse than putting in all that time and effort only to deal with weed problems.

Published: 2007-02-01 00:00:00 read more...

Eliminate Weed Problems with the Right Landscape Fabric

Spending time on your yard making your landscape look superb can add to your house's curb appeal as well as your own enjoyment. But nothing is worse than putting in all that time and effort only to deal with weed problems.

Published: 2007-02-01 00:00:00 read more...

Springtime Signals Home Improvement Season

With warmer weather just around the corner, Americans are dusting off their home improvement to-do lists and finding that a large number of projects fell through the cracks in 2006.

Published: 2007-02-01 00:00:00 read more...

Clean Up Your Old Bathtub Before Replacing It

If you have an older home, you may be considering ripping out and replacing the tile and plumbing fixtures. People often replace them because they have many years' build up of dinge or minor blemishes and they don't think they'll ever get clean again.

Published: 2007-02-01 00:00:00 read more...

Save Energy by Cleaning Your Home Air System

As energy costs rise, many of us cringe at the thought of opening our monthly utility bill. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling account for about 56 percent of the energy use in a typical U.S. home, making it the largest energy expense for most homes.

Published: 2007-01-30 00:00:00 read more...

The Next Level in Spa Bath Trends

Consumers continue to crave increasingly luxurious home bath experiences. Whether they are refurbishing the bath in preparation for a sale, or feathering a nest they intend to live in for decades to come, homeowners have embraced the concept of spa-like bathrooms.

Published: 2007-01-30 00:00:00 read more...

This Year's Home Improvement: Embrace Your Outdoor Space

With spring just around the corner, it's time to start planning this year's home improvement projects.

Published: 2007-01-25 00:00:00 read more...

Space Saving Tips to Create an Efficient Kitchen Office

The kitchen is the heart of a home, a central gathering place to tackle the family finances, plan schedules and oversee homework. As a temporary workspace, the kitchen table can convert into the command center until the next mealtime. Eliminate the chaos and shuffling of projects and papers, with a kitchen office.

Published: 2007-01-25 00:00:00 read more...

Give All the Wood in Your Home a Like-New Glow

When Vicki Lewis decided her 15-year-old kitchen cabinets were beyond salvaging, she started pricing new cabinets and quickly discovered that replacing her cabinets would be too expensive.

Published: 2007-01-23 00:00:00 read more...

Five Tips to Turn Your Bedroom into a Blissful Oasis

If your bedroom is more like a catastrophe than oasis, it may be time to wake up and take on the chaos. Designers and sleep experts agree that your bedroom should be a peaceful refuge, a restful retreat that creates an atmosphere conducive to sleep and relaxation.

Published: 2007-01-23 00:00:00 read more...

Give Your Kitchen Cabinets and all your Wood Surfaces a New Lease on Life Just in Time for Spring

When Vicki Lewis decided her 15-year-old kitchen cabinets were beyond salvaging, she started pricing new cabinets and quickly discovered that replacing her cabinets would be too expensive.

Published: 2007-01-23 00:00:00 read more...

Tile for Every Room in the Home is a Hot Design Trend

Today's recent design trends have sparked a passion for innovation in the world of ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiles are no longer simple, white squares protecting kitchen countertops. They have evolved into an art form encompassing the personality and creativity of homeowners through textures, their use of light, and their ability to mimic natural aesthetics.

Published: 2007-01-17 00:00:00 read more...

New Concept for Linoleum with Do-it-Yourself Version

The word "linoleum" may call to mind the indestructible -- yet nondescript -- hallways of your high school. Or, you may say "that's what we have on our kitchen floor." Either image misses the mark when it comes to modern incarnations of this durable, environmentally friendly natural product.

Published: 2007-01-16 00:00:00 read more...

'Generation Young' Goes DIY

Across the country, first-time homeowners are moving into houses that all too often look their age -- much older than the new occupants. To make these homes fit today's modern lifestyles, Generation Y is going DIY.

Published: 2007-01-16 00:00:00 read more...

Helpful Tool that Will Make Your Kitchen Remodel a Breeze

Thinking about remodeling your kitchen but not sure where to start? You may be tempted to just turn the project over to the experts, but a lot of people will tell you that's the last thing you should do.

Published: 2007-01-15 00:00:00 read more...

Retaining Walls Give Front Entry More Curb Appeal

Want to give your home a facelift without undergoing a total remodel or taking out a second mortgage? Consider replacing your old front stoop with a front-entry courtyard that's both eye-catching and functional.

Published: 2007-01-12 00:00:00 read more...

Remodeling Your Kitchen on a Budget

Tired of the look and feel of your kitchen? Want to try something different? If so, you're not alone. Kitchen remodels are one of this country's most popular home improvement projects, but they aren't cheap.

Published: 2007-01-12 00:00:00 read more...

Designer Sinks and Faucets Add Functional Flair to Your Home

Do you want to fall in love all over again with your kitchen or bathroom, but can't afford a complete remodel? For the easiest and most dramatic change, consider upgrading your sinks and faucets.

Published: 2007-01-11 00:00:00 read more...

Remodel with Designer Faucets without Designer Prices

Do you want to fall in love all over again with your kitchen or bathroom, but can't afford a complete remodel? For the easiest and most dramatic change, consider upgrading your sinks and faucets.

Published: 2007-01-11 00:00:00 read more...

Enjoy the Great Outdoors This Spring

Winter got you down? Tired of being cooped up indoors all the time? If so, you're not alone. According to the National Institutes of Health, 25 percent of the population at the middle-to-northern latitudes of the United States experience winter doldrums.

Published: 2007-01-09 00:00:00 read more...

Winter Home Projects Free Up Summer Time

Many people think of summer as the primary time to tackle household projects. But in reality, many can be completed during the winter months when we are stuck in the house anyway. Free up some time this summer by working on home projects now.

Published: 2007-01-09 00:00:00 read more...

In 2007, Style Is All Natural

Spring brings a re-born rejuvenation to tackle home improvement projects previously put off. Now's the perfect time to take on indoor projects, be it a room makeover or a new addition. And as long as you're doing it, you might as well do it in style. Do-it-yourself trends for 2007 have three recurring themes: nature, comfort and "green."

Published: 2007-01-09 00:00:00 read more...

Start the New Year in Natural Style

The New Year brings a re-born rejuvenation to tackle home improvement projects previously put off. Now's the perfect time to take on indoor projects, be it a room makeover or a new addition. And as long as you're doing it, you might as well do it in style. Do-it-yourself trends for 2007 have three recurring themes: nature, comfort and "green."

Published: 2007-01-09 00:00:00 read more...

Indoor Home Projects Free Up Summer Time

Many people think of summer as the primary time to tackle household projects. But in reality, many can be completed during the cooler months when we are stuck in the house anyway. Free up some time this summer by working on home projects now.

Published: 2007-01-09 00:00:00 read more...

Custom Wood Flooring Lends Authenticity

Product authenticity is the latest luxury in home design. Consumers demand more for their money, seeking quality, originality and above all the "real thing." They want the original product that started a trend, such as a hand-made fisherman's sweater from Ireland, a Lora Piana cashmere shawl, Todd's driving moccasins or a Limoges platter. Authenticity is in demand in all aspects of the luxury market today.

Published: 2007-01-05 00:00:00 read more...

Spring Landscape Tips for This Winter

Preparations for spring landscaping vary depending on where you live, but no matter where you are, there are a few things to do before spring arrives. Here are a few tips from the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) to keep the cooped up gardener happy.

Published: 2007-01-03 00:00:00 read more...

Spring Landscape Tips

Preparations for spring landscaping vary depending on where you live, but no matter where you are, there are a few things to do before spring arrives. Here are a few tips from the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) to keep the cooped up gardener happy.

Published: 2007-01-03 00:00:00 read more...

From Apple Farm to "Green" Flooring: Recycled Wood is in Demand

Reclaimed wood floors are a popular option for homeowners and for public buildings as well. The floors give a sense of history to any building. The craftsmen at Carlisle Wide Plank Floors understand the importance of maintaining that history.

Published: 2006-12-28 00:00:00 read more...

Five New Solutions To Cold & Drafty Rooms

With cold winter weather now upon us, are you suffering from rooms that are cold and drafty? Many mistakenly assume that this is unavoidable, since every home they ever lived in had uneven temperatures.

Published: 2006-12-27 00:00:00 read more...

Dream Up a Personalized Valentine's Day Gift for Your Sweetheart

This year, couples are breaking away from the standard red rose bouquet and looking at Valentine's Day as an opportunity to treat one another to memorable experiences or non-traditional gifts that offer lasting enjoyment throughout the year.

Published: 2006-12-27 00:00:00 read more...

Bathroom Style Fix-Up With Fixtures

When it comes to self expression, there's no place like home. We all want our homes to be comfortable and reflect our personal styles. But as our tastes evolve, we can't deny the urge to redecorate. It's not always possible or desirable to start over from scratch. Setting a budget can help you decide what to keep and what to get rid of, and how to mix and match the new with the old.

Published: 2006-12-27 00:00:00 read more...

Five New Solutions To Cold and Drafty Rooms

With cold winter weather now upon us, are you suffering from rooms that are cold and drafty? Many mistakenly assume that this is unavoidable, since every home they ever lived in had uneven temperatures.

Published: 2006-12-27 00:00:00 read more...

Outdoor Living Takes a New Twist in 2007

From dinner on city rooftop gardens to watching football in suburban outdoor living rooms, Americans have once again fallen in love with the great outdoors.

Published: 2006-12-21 00:00:00 read more...

The Big Picture on Energy Efficiency at Home

We live in a world where convenience is a high priority regardless of its cost. According to the U.S. Green Building Council, on average each home in the United States consumes about 11,000 KwH of electricity a year. The monetary cost for homeowners is roughly $900.

Published: 2006-12-18 00:00:00 read more...

Energy-Efficiency Trek 2006: Garage Doors - the Final Frontier

Caulk around doors and windows. Check. Blow extra insulation in the attic. Did it years ago. Make sure the damper is closed when not using the fireplace. Always do. Turn down the thermostat a little more. C'mon, how low do I need to go?

Published: 2006-12-14 00:00:00 read more...

Energy-Efficiency Trek 2007: Garage Doors - the Final Frontier

Caulk around doors and windows. Check. Blow extra insulation in the attic. Did it years ago. Make sure the damper is closed when not using the fireplace. Always do. Turn down the thermostat a little more. C'mon, how low do I need to go?

Published: 2006-12-14 00:00:00 read more...

Mirrors Making a Design Comeback

you think of mirrors as just a way to check your outfit on the way out the door, think again. Designers are rediscovering the many decorative uses for this everyday object. "Mirrors have unique properties unlike other design elements," says Brian Pitman, director of marketing and communications for the Glass Association of North America (GANA).

Published: 2006-12-14 00:00:00 read more...

Soapstone Countertops Provide Beauty, Durability

The kitchen is probably the hardest working room in your house. It's the main gathering spot for family and friends, and it's used for everything from preparing meals to doing homework to working on craft projects.

Published: 2006-12-13 00:00:00 read more...

Home Improvements Provide Sound Investment

According to national statistics, new home sales are down and existing home values have dropped. That makes home ownership a confusing investment. Should you buy, sell, or hold tight in your current home?

Published: 2006-12-08 00:00:00 read more...

Set Up a Home Theater Anywhere in the House

If the current trends continue, one of the hottest home improvement projects in the New Year will be to add a home theater. In fact, the Consumer Electronics Manufacturer's Association is predicting that by the year 2010, 30 million American households will have a connected entertainment network in their homes.

Published: 2006-12-05 00:00:00 read more...

Home Improvements that Pay You Back

Purchasing a home is perhaps the most significant investment you'll ever make. One way that millions of Americans are increasing the return and value of their homes is through remodeling. Remodeling is not only a great way to enhance your investment, but it can also provide you with greater satisfaction with your living environment. But before you call the contractor, there are a few other things to consider.

Published: 2006-12-04 00:00:00 read more...

Control Your Energy Costs By Creating Shade

Winter will be here before you know it, and because of rising fuel costs, the U.S. Department of Energy is warning that heating bills will be higher this year.

Published: 2006-11-13 00:00:00 read more...

Is Your Basement a Blast From the Past?

Unless your name is Carol Brady, retro relics like green shag carpet and dark wood paneling have probably disappeared from your home's decor. But venture into many a basement and prepare to enter a time warp.

Published: 2006-11-07 00:00:00 read more...

Bring the Stadium Home

- Football season is here. For die-hard as well as casual fans, football is as much an excuse to get together as it is to watch the game, and while it's certainly exciting to go to the stadium, the majority watch the game from the comfort of their own home.

Published: 2006-11-06 00:00:00 read more...

Gifts for the Do-it-Yourselfer on Your Holiday List

While you're making your list and checking it twice this holiday season, don't forget the do-it-yourselfers on your list. Cool weather seldom chills the DYIer's enthusiasm for home improvement projects. The work of creating one's castle simply moves inside.

Published: 2006-11-06 00:00:00 read more...

Nip And Tuck Your Home For Lasting Beauty

Advances in science and technology have allowed millions of people to enhance their appearance almost immediately through cosmetic surgery. In 2005, Americans spent more than $12.5 billion to make themselves more attractive. Thanks to a cooling housing market and the resulting surge in home improvement projects, this same obsession with appearances can be applied to home exterior renovations...

Published: 2006-10-31 00:00:00 read more...

Blizzards and Ice Storms and Rain - Oh My!

Freak wind storms, cold snaps, snow storms or gully-washers. No matter where you live, Mother Nature is bound to throw some form of severe winter weather your way.

Published: 2006-10-30 00:00:00 read more...

Lighting Design Tips You Can Use to Feng Shui Your Home

Traditional Feng Shui utilizes the five elements of wood, fire, earth, metal and water as remedies to energetic issues in a house or building. The basic concepts are simple: use common sense in furniture placement, keep it free of clutter and make sure the room's flow or arrangement allows for conversation.

Published: 2006-10-27 00:00:00 read more...

Preparing for Power Outages: Portable Versus Home Generator Systems

According to the Electric Power Research Institute, about 3.5 million people in the United States lose power each week. As power outages become a way of life in some areas of the country, more homeowners are switching from their portable generators to permanent, home generator systems.

Published: 2006-10-26 00:00:00 read more...

You've Heard of Thinking Outside the Box, but How About Beyond the Walls?

The last time you were in an electronics store, you probably ooo-ed and ahh-ed when you walked past the flat-panel TVs. With their clear, crisp pictures, big screens and theater-quality sound, who wouldn't?

Published: 2006-10-25 00:00:00 read more...

Hottest Bathroom Trend: The Spa Experience at Home

The housing bubble has finally burst, experts agree. Homeowners who once might have "moved up" to a bigger, better house as their needs and financial resources grew, are increasingly staying put, choosing instead to "improve, not move."

Published: 2006-10-23 00:00:00 read more...

Five-Star Hotel Luxuries for Your Bath

Staying at a five-star luxury hotel can quickly introduce you to the finer things in life. But the vacation doesn't have to end once you leave.

Published: 2006-10-16 00:00:00 read more...

Treat Your Septic System with Environmentally Friendly Products

The National Water Quality Inventory Report to Congress stated, ". . . poorly maintained septic systems are believed to cause substantial and widespread nutrient and microbial contamination to ground water."

Published: 2006-10-10 00:00:00 read more...

Don't Let a Clogged Drain Ruin Your Party

There's never a good time to have a clogged drain, but some times are worse than others. For example, when your kitchen sink decides to back up during the middle of a dinner party, or when your toilet clogs and overflows while you're hosting house guests. Not only can this embarrass you and your guests, it also puts a serious damper on the festivities!

Published: 2006-10-10 00:00:00 read more...

Gift Ideas for Frantic Holiday Shoppers

Feeling frantic about finding just the right holiday gift for those hard-to-buy-for folks on your list? Not to worry. If you're stumped for ideas, today's companies are making holiday shopping easy by providing a myriad of choices.

Published: 2006-10-10 00:00:00 read more...

How to Cut Water Costs and Preserve the Environment

Most of us give little thought to how much water we use. Compared to other utilities, like heating, water bills are relatively inexpensive for homeowners. Renters typically don't pay for water at all. These factors and the seeming abundance of water in many areas tend to put water conservation under the radar for most of us.

Published: 2006-10-09 00:00:00 read more...

Understanding Fireclay Apron Sinks

Fireclay sinks have been crafted and treasured in England for years, but until recently, have been somewhat overlooked in the United States. Today these kitchen classics are finding their way into wonderfully restored antique farmhouses, newly built luxury manses in suburbia and downtown urban townhouses looking to bring a bit of the charm and elegance of the 19th century home.

Published: 2006-10-09 00:00:00 read more...

Getting Ready for a Kitchen Remodel?

If cooking in limited space is a challenge, your countertops are cluttered and you have no cabinet space left, it may be time for a kitchen remodel. According to the national trade publication "Kitchen & Bath Business," an estimated 6 million households will embark on said adventure in the coming year.

Published: 2006-10-06 00:00:00 read more...

Shower Your Loved Ones This Holiday Season

It's that time of year again -- time to deck the halls and be jolly! Searching for the perfect gifts for your friends and family can take the "happy" out of the holidays, however.

Published: 2006-10-06 00:00:00 read more...

The Perfect Recipe for Making Life Easier in the Kitchen

Today, more and more women are working two jobs: one outside the home; the other right at home. And instead of laptops and conference calls at their 'nine to five' job, this second job involves countertops and cleaning the halls.

Published: 2006-10-03 00:00:00 read more...

Technology Brings the Spa Experience to Your Bathroom

Technology has become so integrated into our daily lives that we hardly even notice it anymore. From cell phones that keep us in constant communication to laptop computers with instant access to the Internet to MP3 players and other personal forms of entertainment, we are surrounded by gadgets that we take for granted, even though they were rare less than a decade ago.

Published: 2006-10-03 00:00:00 read more...

Is It Time for a Fireplace Facelift?

A great fireplace not only adds value and warmth to your home, it's a natural focal point for winter entertaining. But if you're having a hard time envisioning your guests sipping cocktails around your straight-out-of-the-'70s hearth, it may be time for a fireplace facelift.

Published: 2006-09-26 00:00:00 read more...

Extend the Enjoyment of Outdoor Living Spaces This Fall with the Right Design Elements

With the increasing popularity of outdoor living spaces, it's no surprise that homeowners are putting more effort into choosing the best outside decor for relaxing and entertaining at home on their decks - and not just in the summer time.

Published: 2006-09-25 00:00:00 read more...

One of the Easiest Ways to Spruce Up a Bathroom

The holiday season will be here before you know it and guess what that means... time to get the house ready for all the guests who will soon descend upon you, and there's a lot to do.

Published: 2006-09-25 00:00:00 read more...

Extend the Enjoyment of Outdoor Living Spaces with the Right Design Elements

With the increasing popularity of outdoor living spaces, it's no surprise that homeowners are putting more effort into choosing the best outside decor for relaxing and entertaining at home on their decks - and not just in the summer time.

Published: 2006-09-25 00:00:00 read more...

Building 101: Top Considerations in New Construction and Remodeling

I recently met with a newly married couple, Ted and Jen, to help them design their dream home, which they are building on the upper Mississippi River this year. Plans for the Mediterranean-inspired home are nearly complete, and they asked me about choosing the finishing touches and fixtures.

Published: 2006-09-25 00:00:00 read more...

Make the Holiday Season Merry and Bright: Holiday Home Safety Tips

Home decorations help make the holidays joyful and festive for friends and family. While you are stringing the lights and spreading warmth and cheer, one of the most important considerations is how to keep your house and family safe from fire and injury.

Published: 2006-09-22 00:00:00 read more...

Housing Trend: Americans Are Improving Rather than Moving

Published: 2006-09-21 00:00:00 read more...

Ladder Safety Can Prevent Serious Injury

You may not think of cleaning out the gutters or hanging holiday decorations as high-risk tasks, but the fact is that any job around the house that involves climbing a ladder has the potential for injury.

Published: 2006-09-21 00:00:00 read more...

Reduce Hidden Dangers in the Home

As parents attempt to reduce the risk of home accidents for children, they need to remember that dangers lurk in even the least expected places. However, most of the accidents that occur in the home are preventable. Proactive parents can play a critical role in avoiding these accidents by closely examining their own home for potential dangers.

Published: 2006-09-18 00:00:00 read more...

Hot New Alternative Heating Option: Multi-Fuel Stoves

If environmental, cost and convenience concerns put the damper on your love affair with your wood burning stove, take heart. New energy efficient multi-fuel stoves that burn environmentally friendly, renewable fuel could re-ignite your passion.

Published: 2006-09-12 00:00:00 read more...

What's Wrong with My Windows?

Did you know that a family of four can generate up to 18 gallons of water in the form of humidity inside a home in a week? All that water stemming from cooking, showering, washing and drying clothes, and even breathing, has to go somewhere.

Published: 2006-09-11 00:00:00 read more...

A Unique Gift Idea for that Special Kid in Your Life

The time of year when relatives get to play Santa for the little ones in their lives is almost upon us, and if you're racking your brain to come up with a gift idea that will make a huge impact, look no further than the back yard.

Published: 2006-09-07 00:00:00 read more...

Laminate Floors Offer Beauty as Well as Durability

You might not give your floors much thought -- until it comes time to replace them. Then you realize that there are many options out there. For busy families whose floors need to stand up to kids and pets, laminate flooring is an excellent choice.

Published: 2006-09-01 00:00:00 read more...

Home Heating Costs Burning Up Your Budget?

With home heating costs soaring, more homeowners are looking at installing wood-burning stoves. But saving money isn't the only reason to consider this time-honored method of heating your home. What could be more welcoming on a cold winter day than the warmth and glow of a crackling fire?

Published: 2006-08-31 00:00:00 read more...

Energy Saving Tips For Homeowners

With escalating energy costs and rising prices for home improvement projects, everyone is looking for ways to conserve and cut costs without breaking the bank on the initial investment. Adding a simple storm door may be the answer.

Published: 2006-08-31 00:00:00 read more...

Peppermint Serves as Natural Deterrent to Mice

The scurrying of tiny mice feet on a kitchen floor or the not-so-subtle droppings in the corner of the living room are enough to make even the most grounded homeowners shudder and launch into a wild-goose chase to find the mice that have invaded their home.

Published: 2006-08-30 00:00:00 read more...

Invest in Home Improvements, Not in Tools for the Job

Many smart homeowners see fall as the year's last chance to fix that leaky roof, resurface the driveway, restain the deck, clean the chimney and tidy the yard. But while all your last-minute winterizing chores probably won't break your back, they could break the bank if you try to buy all the tools you'll need to get the jobs done.

Published: 2006-08-30 00:00:00 read more...

Built On Love

Among the clipped lawns and traditional style homes of Green Bay, a cozy log home nestled in the woods is a rarity indeed. Equally rare are the steps the owners have taken to protect their original retreat.

Published: 2006-08-25 00:00:00 read more...

How to Create Your Dream Home

Among the clipped lawns and traditional style homes of Green Bay, a cozy log home nestled in the woods is a rarity indeed. Equally rare are the steps the owners have taken to protect their original retreat.

Published: 2006-08-25 00:00:00 read more...

Copper No Longer Practical for Plumbing

With copper hitting record high prices in recent months, not only is it becoming a more expensive plumbing option, but also a more attractive theft item. The Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries estimates that copper thefts are at their highest level in more than a decade. Unfortunately, it's impossible for recyclers to know which copper items have been stolen as they don't carry any identifier.

Published: 2006-08-24 00:00:00 read more...

Five Can't-Miss Tips for Brightening Your Bath

Most homeowners know by now that improvements to bathrooms can bring big returns on investment when it comes time to resell a house. But there's another equally compelling, often-overlooked reason to freshen your bath - it just feels good.

Published: 2006-08-23 00:00:00 read more...

Take the 'Squeak' Out of Your Squeaky Floors

As you delicately try to tiptoe past that familiar creak in the floor, your foot is inevitably drawn right to it and that terrible squeak is heard, loud as ever, throughout the house. It's happened to everybody, and at times it wakes up the newborn (or anyone else who's asleep), interrupts home-office calls, and lets everyone in the house know about your midnight snack run to the fridge.

Published: 2006-08-22 00:00:00 read more...

Preparing Your Backyard for Winter

As the weather cools, many homeowners already have a system in place to help prepare their home's exterior for the looming winter season. Making sure outdoor furniture is stored away and bushes and young trees are wrapped in burlap are just a few common tasks many homeowners automatically check off.

Published: 2006-08-22 00:00:00 read more...

Energy Savings with a Flick of the Switch

From energy efficient lighting to energy-saving appliances, today's homeowners are living in a new era when it comes to maintaining their homes. Now more than ever, diminishing energy supplies are taking a toll on the nation's power grid, pushing gas and electric bills to all-time highs and forcing new energy regulations.

Published: 2006-08-21 00:00:00 read more...

Easy Fall Spruce Ups for Your Home

Fall is the time for cleaning up the yard and garden, and sprucing up the inside and outside of your home. That means fall is also the time to deal with that peeling paint in the kitchen or the dated décor in the bathroom.

Published: 2006-08-21 00:00:00 read more...

Comfort and Conservation Meet in New Low-Flow Products

Would you like to reduce your home water bill and do something good for the environment at the same time? Consider cutting costly water wastage at the most common source - in your bathroom.

Published: 2006-08-21 00:00:00 read more...

Hunker Down and Heat Efficiently to Save Money

Winter can bring on a bitter reminder of potential heat loss in a home and ultimately, higher utility costs. Any leaky window or gaping door can affect your heating bill when temperatures drop.

Published: 2006-08-15 00:00:00 read more...

Texturing Walls and Ceilings: Good Looks without the Hard Work

When it comes to home decorating, texturing can do for your walls what a good coat of wax can do for your car's finish - hide a host of flaws. Poorly patched holes, uneven sheetrock, ugly wallpaper and even multiple layers of peeling paint can all be hidden beneath a beautiful layer of texture.

Published: 2006-08-11 00:00:00 read more...

Spring into Fall with 'Ground Breaking' News for Lawn Care: Liquid Aeration

Lawn-loving homeowners know it takes a lot of care to keep their lawns in tiptop condition during the summer, but in the fall homeowners' thoughts turn to other things. That's a big mistake, according to lawn specialists, because how you care for your lawn in autumn determines to a great extent its health in the upcoming year.

Published: 2006-08-07 00:00:00 read more...

Spring into Fall with "Ground Breaking" News for Lawn Care: Liquid Aeration

Lawn-loving homeowners know it takes a lot of care to keep their lawns in tiptop condition during the summer, but in the fall homeowners' thoughts turn to other things. That's a big mistake, according to lawn specialists, because how you care for your lawn in autumn determines to a great extent its health in the upcoming year.

Published: 2006-08-07 00:00:00 read more...

How to Turn an Average Garage Into a Great Home Workshop

Today, a garage is no longer just four walls and a roof in which to park the car and store seasonal items. A garage workshop often becomes a second home for the enthusiast. It's prime space to house tools and workstations.

Published: 2006-08-04 00:00:00 read more...

Modern Techniques Give New Floors the Look of Old Wood

The warm patina of old traditional wood floors is an in-demand look for today's homes. The appeal of a uniquely worn floor is easy to understand. The pockets, undulations, dips and softened edges in a wide plank floor convey a sense of history and a certain depth of character.

Published: 2006-08-03 00:00:00 read more...

No Tools Required: Make Your Bathroom Safe Without Calling a Contractor

Sometimes it seems like you have an endless list of home repair projects in need of outside assistance. Now, you can check home safety off of your list. In fact, there are some simple, inexpensive and easy-to-install things you can do - without calling a contractor. It's as easy as 1-2-3.

Published: 2006-08-02 00:00:00 read more...

New Lighting Provides a Quick and Easy Home Makeover

When was the last time you installed lighting to create ambiance in your home? It is frequently considered a functional necessity, but lighting often remains an overlooked element in setting the mood for every room in your house.

Published: 2006-08-02 00:00:00 read more...

Using Tile with Style

When you think of tile, does your design sense go immediately to the bath or kitchen? Yes, it is a perfect material for use in those rooms -- but what about the living room, dining room, bedroom, mudroom, patio or garage?

Published: 2006-08-01 00:00:00 read more...

Finding a Study Spot for Kids is as Easy as ABC

As school buses start rolling out, the homework will start rolling in. According to the U.S. Department of Education, kids who complete more homework score better on standardized tests and get better grades than students who do less.

Published: 2006-07-31 00:00:00 read more...

Energy-Saving Window Replacement Tips

Looking to save money on your soaring energy bills? Then start by evaluating the effectiveness of your home's windows. If you feel air through the windows or see faded areas on your carpet, then your windows may not be working hard enough to keep you and your family comfortable.

Published: 2006-07-28 00:00:00 read more...

Hurricane Preparedness More Crucial Than Ever

Despite the increase in force and numbers of hurricanes, the popularity of owning a second home near the waterfront is increasing. Properly protecting your home, whether it's your primary residence or a vacation home, may be one of the most important precautions you take this hurricane season.

Published: 2006-07-28 00:00:00 read more...

Garages Go Gorgeous: Garage Door Makeovers Have a Dramatic Impact on Curb Appeal

If the home is where style lives, then the garage is where it parks. With more than 65 million one-, two- or three-car garages in the United States, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the potential for garages as a focal point of the home is enormous.

Published: 2006-07-28 00:00:00 read more...

How to Make Your Septic Tank Environmentally Friendly

The National Water Quality Inventory Report to Congress stated, ". . . poorly maintained septic systems are believed to cause substantial and widespread nutrient and microbial contamination to ground water." Poorly maintained septic systems are "the second most frequently cited contamination source [of ground water]."

Published: 2006-07-27 00:00:00 read more...

Cook Up the Kitchen of Your Dreams

We've all seen the exquisitely-designed, high-end kitchens in magazines or on television. They may have the latest gadgets, such as digital ovens or refrigerators with internet access. But, don't you wonder how they really cook in that kitchen?

Published: 2006-07-27 00:00:00 read more...

Choosing the Right Toilet Seat

Did you read that headline and think to yourself "how hard is it to pick a toilet seat"? If you haven't shopped for one recently, you will be surprised at how many options you have.

Published: 2006-07-21 00:00:00 read more...

Today's Do-It-Yourselfers are Floored by Laminates

Imagine a beautiful wood-look floor that can be quickly installed, is durable enough to stand up to everyday life, and can be maintained with just a damp cloth. It may sound too good to be true, but today's laminate flooring offers all of this and more, and is fast becoming one of the hottest home improvement projects among do-it-yourselfers.

Published: 2006-07-21 00:00:00 read more...

Furniture Moves into the Bathroom

Bathrooms have gone from cramped rooms tucked away at the end of the hall that merely served their purpose, to large, airy showplaces. From state-of-the-art showers and whirlpool tubs to high-end countertops and cabinetry, the bathroom has become a haven where homeowners can relax and enjoy the room's amenities.

Published: 2006-07-21 00:00:00 read more...

Upgrade Your Toilet Seat for Affordable Luxury

When you think of adding a touch of luxury to your bathroom, a new toilet seat may not be the first change that comes to mind. But if you haven't shopped for one recently, you will be surprised at how many options you have and how a new toilet seat can change the ambience of your bathroom.

Published: 2006-07-21 00:00:00 read more...

Dress Up Your Outdoor Living Space

Now that summer is here, people are once again turning their attention towards things they can do outside. So it should come as no surprise that the experts are predicting one of the hottest trends in home improvement will continue to be creating outdoor living spaces.

Published: 2006-07-19 00:00:00 read more...

Professional-grade Kitchens that Really Cook

Gourmet chefs are no longer the only ones enjoying the conveniences of a professional kitchen. Whether you're a cooking connoisseur, a 20-minute wonder cook or an occasional entertainer, today's amenity-packed kitchen designs can make cooking at home simpler and more efficient.

Published: 2006-07-17 00:00:00 read more...

Seven Smart Strategies to Dust-Proof Your Home

It's a common complaint. Just a few days after a thorough house cleaning, that unsightly dust is back, settling on every surface in your house. Dust can also contribute to respiratory allergy suffering. Although the visible dust is most obvious, health scientists now say it is the very small invisible particulates and noxious gases we should be most worried about. What's the answer? Here are seven proven ways to greatly reduce dust and breathe easier in your home.

Published: 2006-07-06 00:00:00 read more...

Tips and Tools for DIY Women Homeowners

Gone are the days when women went from their parents' house to their married homestead without living on their own in between. Today, women not only buy their own homes, they also do their own home repairs. There are an estimated 17 million woman homeowners in the United States, and women do-it-yourselfers are the fastest growing segment of the home improvement market.

Published: 2006-07-05 00:00:00 read more...

Tips and Tools for DIY Woman Homeowners

Gone are the days when women went from their parents' house to their married homestead without living on their own in between. Today, women not only buy their own homes, they also do their own home repairs. There are an estimated 17 million woman homeowners in the United States, and women do-it-yourselfers are the fastest growing segment of the home improvement market.

Published: 2006-07-05 00:00:00 read more...

Up on the Roof-top: Drip, Drip, Drip . . .

Summer's here and the living is easy. Or at least it would be if you hadn't put off that list of spring home repairs. Some you'll take care of yourself. The plugged utility drain is disgusting, but doable and the leaky faucet just takes a trip to the hardware store and some elbow grease.

Published: 2006-06-30 00:00:00 read more...

Wood Flooring Goes 'Green'

Home building has gone green. Environmentally conscience consumers are driving builders and home product manufacturers to emphasize environmental responsibility. Even products like hardwood flooring - that might not seem to lend themselves to a "green" lifestyle - are getting an environment-friendly makeover.

Published: 2006-06-29 00:00:00 read more...

Home Improvement Tips to Save You Time and Money

little preparation and pre-project know-how can help save the average do-it-yourselfer time and money, both of which can be used to enjoy more time with family and friends and less time working around the house.

Published: 2006-06-23 00:00:00 read more...

Summer-Saver Home Improvement Tips

Summer. With it comes a bevy of home improvement activities and projects. Whether it's building a deck, remodeling a kitchen, taking on a landscape project, or just completing routine maintenance, homeowners can spend countless hours working around the house rather than lounging and enjoying the warm weather.

Published: 2006-06-23 00:00:00 read more...

Garage Door Can Be Home's Weakest Link in Hurricane Hot Spot

The garage door is the largest moving part on your home and may pose a major threat to your property if you live in a hurricane prone region. According to the Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA), the loss of a garage door during a hurricane can cause an uncontrolled buildup of internal pressure resulting in a blowout of the roof and supporting walls.

Published: 2006-06-14 00:00:00 read more...

HydroTherapy: The Ultimate Stress Reliever

With today's kinetic multitasking lifestyle, it's no wonder a recent study by the National Women's Health Resource Center found that nine out of 10 adults have experienced serious stress, with four out of the 10 suffering adverse health affects as a direct result. Relief could be as close as the backyard.

Published: 2006-06-12 00:00:00 read more...

Entertain Outdoors in Freestyle this Summer

The term freestyle usually evokes images of swimming laps or spontaneous dancing. However, this summer think freestyle in terms of preparing outdoor spaces for a bustling season of casual barbecues, poolside soirees and zesty fiestas. Freestyle decorating is a potpourri of the old and new, combined with vision, creativity and individual flair. The result is a one-of-a-kind center stage to host all of your outdoor gatherings this season.

Published: 2006-06-08 00:00:00 read more...

Walls Get in Step with Fashion

Fashion and home décor trends are so closely aligned now that we can add a favorite new look or color scheme to both our wardrobes and our homes at the same time. One day you're shopping for shoes in the hottest color and the next day you find yourself reaching for throw pillows in a matching shade.

Published: 2006-06-07 00:00:00 read more...

Warm Weather Brings Indoor Air Woes for Many

Warm weather brings sunshine, green grass, blooming flowers and time to enjoy the outdoors. However, during summer, many allergy and asthma sufferers minimize outdoor activity and retreat indoors in search of cleaner air. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, approximately 75 percent of all allergy sufferers have indoor or outdoor allergies as their primary allergy.

Published: 2006-06-06 00:00:00 read more...

Real Kitchens, Real Trends

It's easy to open decorating magazines and daydream about all the expensive, cutting-edge kitchens inside. But when it comes time to put their cash on the barrelhead for a new kitchen, what are consumers actually willing to pay for?

Published: 2006-06-02 00:00:00 read more...

Keeping Your Floor Looking New

When most people purchase new flooring, they are determined to keep it looking brand new as long as they can. They make sure not to walk on it with dirty shoes, vacuum regularly and clean up spills the second they occur. But what happens when that determination starts to wear off?

Published: 2006-06-01 00:00:00 read more...

Redwood Fences from Practical to Elegant

When you build a redwood fence, it's almost always because of a specific need. You need to keep the dog in the yard. You need a boundary between your house and the street. You need a tad more privacy. How you build your fence is a matter of taste. Redwood fences range in design from the practical to the elegant.

Published: 2006-05-31 00:00:00 read more...

Keep Your House Cool during the Dog Days of Summer

It's not easy keeping a house cool during the long, hot, dog-days of summer, but according to interior design experts at The Art Institutes, there are steps you can take to not only make your house cooler, but also more environmentally-friendly, energy-efficient and enjoyable to be in.

Published: 2006-05-31 00:00:00 read more...

Decorating with Natural Light in Your Home

The benefits of having abundant daylight in our homes are well documented. Studies show that students learn better, adults suffer less Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), and older Americans have less trouble reading and getting around when rooms are filled with natural light. But aside from documented psychological and physical benefits, it's obvious that living and working in a naturally brightly lit space just makes life feel better.

Published: 2006-05-31 00:00:00 read more...

Time to Repaint the House? Tips to Make It Easy, Professional-Looking

Are you hosting a graduation party this summer? Or perhaps you're welcoming out-of-town relatives or throwing a wedding shower for your best friend. Nothing motivates homeowners to spruce up their house like the prospect of entertaining.

Published: 2006-05-31 00:00:00 read more...

More Natural Light Used in Remodeling

Home remodeling and improvements totaled a record $275 billion in 2005, an almost 20 percent increase from the previous year. And, according to Kermit Baker, a senior research fellow at Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies, remodeling now accounts for 40 percent of U.S. residential construction annually. "We expect that share of activity to grow," Baker says.

Published: 2006-05-31 00:00:00 read more...

The 48-Hour Facelift

Turn on your TV, and you'll be inundated with home decorating shows promising "a new bathroom in just two days!" While these shows offer great ideas - they also feature a crew of painters, carpenters and plumbers to get the job done.

Published: 2006-05-31 00:00:00 read more...

A Room of His Own

It used to be a man's home was his castle. But then the Decorating Divas swept in and insisted that a house just isn't a home until the duvet covers and pillows match the valance, the walls are painted 'Marigold Sunset' with cream accents, and the TV is tucked into an armoire. After his comfy old recliner has been banished, where's a guy supposed to sit?

Published: 2006-05-30 00:00:00 read more...

Sunrooms: A Top Summer Home Improvement Project

Drive around any neighborhood in your hometown and chances are good you'll see work trucks in your neighbors' yards. With the kids home from school and life at a more casual pace, summer is one of the most popular times of year to take on a home improvement project.

Published: 2006-05-30 00:00:00 read more...

Enhance Your Living Space with a Sunroom

Before you know it, the flakes will be flying, so people across the country are rushing to get their home improvement projects done, and the most popular projects this time of year are those that enhance living space.

Published: 2006-05-30 00:00:00 read more...

An Investment You Can Enjoy Today that Will Pay Dividends Tomorrow - A Finished Basement

Can you put a price on peace? Family time? Extra room in your home? What if you could be reasonably certain that the price you paid to upgrade your home to enjoy today would pay dividends tomorrow? Turns out finishing your basement may be just such an investment.

Published: 2006-05-30 00:00:00 read more...

One of the Best Home Improvement Projects You Can Do

Drive around any neighborhood in your hometown and chances are good you'll see work trucks in your neighbors' yards. With the kids home from school and life at a more casual pace, summer is one of the most popular times of year to take on a home improvement project.

Published: 2006-05-30 00:00:00 read more...

Survey Says: Americans Need to "Brush Up" on Home Improvement Skills

Call them weekend warriors. Millions of Americans tackle home improvement projects every year spending $214 billion, but when it comes to admiring their work, the reviews are mixed.

Published: 2006-05-25 00:00:00 read more...

Saturate Your Bedroom with Color

Your bedroom should be a place to go and unwind at the end of the day, a retreat from the outside world that makes you feel relaxed and content. But that doesn't mean that your bedroom has to be done in boring neutral shades. Instead, pick colors that make you happy and express your personality.

Published: 2006-05-25 00:00:00 read more...

Personalizing Your Most Personal Space: The Bathroom

"Know yourself" may be an old adage, but it's great advice when it comes to personalizing the space within your home. After all, design is about your own preferences and tastes. The more you know what you like and dislike, the better chance you'll have of creating rooms that reflect your personality and work within your budget and space.

Published: 2006-05-23 00:00:00 read more...

Adding Value to Your Home with a Deck

The warmer weather is a good catalyst to get you itching to do those home improvement projects, especially those that prolong and enhance your outdoor living experience.

Published: 2006-05-23 00:00:00 read more...

Toilet System Gives Family Caregivers Total Flexibility to Care for Ailing Loved Ones in the Home

When Carl Pearson's ailing mother could no longer live alone safely, he and his wife Rita brought her to their home in Dallas so they could care for her. Wanting to preserve his mother's independence and protect the couple's privacy, Pearson converted a billiard room in the remodeled garage into a spacious bedroom suite.

Published: 2006-05-23 00:00:00 read more...

Make Life Easier on Those Caring for Ailing Loved Ones

When Carl Pearson's ailing mother could no longer live alone safely, he and his wife Rita brought her to their home in Dallas so they could care for her. Wanting to preserve his mother's independence and protect the couple's privacy, Pearson converted a billiard room in the remodeled garage into a spacious bedroom suite.

Published: 2006-05-23 00:00:00 read more...

How to Protect Your Roof from Heavy Hurricane Rains

When Hurricane Katrina rolled ashore in Louisiana August 29th packing 140 mph winds and dumping an inch an hour of rain along much of the Gulf Coast, America held its breath. Only a few years earlier, a hurricane narrowly missed New Orleans. The latest storm would result in property damage and recovery costs far exceeding the $32 billion caused by Andrew in 1992 as it battered the Southeast.

Published: 2006-05-22 00:00:00 read more...

Save Money on Cooling Costs this Summer

Maximize your energy savings by replacing your old room air conditioner with a new energy efficient model. Despite rising electricity costs, a typical new room air conditioner only costs about $45 per year to operate, compared to over $90 in 1980. Before buying a new unit, consider two important factors, cooling capacity and efficiency. A room air conditioner's cooling capacity is a measure of the cooling effect delivered to a room.

Published: 2006-05-19 00:00:00 read more...

Energy Cents: Saving Money with Room Air Conditioners

Maximize your energy savings by replacing your old room air conditioner with a new energy efficient model. Despite rising electricity costs, a typical new room air conditioner only costs about $45 per year to operate, compared to over $90 in 1980. Before buying a new unit, consider two important factors, cooling capacity and efficiency. A room air conditioner's cooling capacity is a measure of the cooling effect delivered to a room.

Published: 2006-05-19 00:00:00 read more...

How to Squeeze a Chain Saw

People know how to select most products they buy. They check the "sell by" date on milk. They try on a pair of pants. They squeeze a melon. But chain saws? They don't know how to shop for chain saws.

Published: 2006-05-19 00:00:00 read more...

Made in the Shade: Canopies Add Value to Outdoor Living Space

Decided to get on board with the movement towards outdoor living spaces? While designing your outdoor environment, keep this in mind: Sun is not always fun.

Published: 2006-05-18 00:00:00 read more...

Get Three Times the Pay Back for Replacing Old Windows

Many factors have converged to make 2006 a great time for home remodeling. Projects completed this fall will increase a home's curb appeal, make it more energy efficient and reduce the homeowner's tax burden.

Published: 2006-05-18 00:00:00 read more...

Use Your Home Equity Wisely

For most Americans, their home is their biggest investment and their most valuable asset. Home equity, or the value of your home after all loans have been paid off, can be a source of value and long-term wealth. In fact, according to SMR Research, Americans have more than $11.2 trillion in home equity.

Published: 2006-05-17 00:00:00 read more...

New Tool Makes Home Improvement Jobs Easier

How many times have you been working on a project around the house, or on the job, only to find yourself frustrated by trying to find the hammer you put down who knows where. It happens to the best of us, even the professionals.

Published: 2006-05-15 00:00:00 read more...

The Real Deal with Curb Appeal

Most architects and real estate experts agree curb appeal is the most important first impression of a home. The outside -- from the home's landscaping to the exterior, to the windows, front door and outdoor lighting -- all impact whether a prospective buyer gets out of the car to take a look or keeps driving.

Published: 2006-05-15 00:00:00 read more...

A Must-Have Tool for Laying Down Tile

There are certain home improvement projects do-it-yourselfers tackle on a regular basis - not only to save money, but for the satisfaction they get out of doing them. Among the most popular, painting and laying down floor tile.

Published: 2006-05-15 00:00:00 read more...

Study Shows Garage Door Appearance Impacts Home's Sale Value

The garage door may not be the first item you think of dressing up when you're putting your house up for sale, but realtors say it's worth giving it some attention.

Published: 2006-05-11 00:00:00 read more...

Roll Out a Vacation in Your Own Back Yard

The rising cost of fuel is going to hit a lot of Americans hard this summer. According to the motor club AAA, gas prices are 18 percent higher now than they were this time last year -- and recent reports indicate we can expect them to go up another 25 cents by the end of the summer.

Published: 2006-05-08 00:00:00 read more...

Hard-Surface Flooring Gains Popularity for Style and Versatility in Home

For many homeowners, the thought of replacing the flooring in their homes is a daunting prospect. Yet, updating the floors is a highly decorative, cost effective way to improve the look and value of your home.

Published: 2006-05-04 00:00:00 read more...

Outdoor Living Advice: Creating a Room of Your Own

Homeowners are getting creative about where they find livable square footage, and increasingly, they're finding it in the great outdoors. As a result, the backyard or a fully furnished patio are becoming the family's new living and dining rooms -- places to entertain or create a shady retreat.

Published: 2006-05-01 00:00:00 read more...

Summer Calls for a Clear View of the Outdoors

One of the biggest home maintenance tasks of the summer just got easier, with a few points of practical advice on the proper cleaning of windows and doors.

Published: 2006-05-01 00:00:00 read more...

Summer Calls for a Clear View of the Outdoors: Window Cleaning and Care

One of the biggest home maintenance tasks of the summer just got easier, with a few points of practical advice on the proper cleaning of windows and doors.

Published: 2006-05-01 00:00:00 read more...

Tips to Make the Most of Your Deck

Decks have become a staple of the American back yard. In keeping with the trend towards outdoor living spaces that mimic the indoors, decks are dressing up. From decorative railings to drainage systems and a greater variety of building materials, today's decks go way beyond simple wood platforms for a portable grill and some patio furniture.

Published: 2006-04-27 00:00:00 read more...

Deck Trends for New Decks and Makeovers

Decks have become a summer staple for the American back yard. In keeping with the trend towards outdoor living spaces that mimic the indoors, decks are dressing up. From decorative railings to drainage systems and a greater variety of building materials, today's decks go way beyond simple wood platforms for a portable grill and some patio furniture.

Published: 2006-04-27 00:00:00 read more...

Make Gardening a Family Affair

School's out! So now what do you do with the kids for the next three months that doesn't cost a fortune? Why not teach them to garden? From preparing the soil to selecting the plants and watering them to watching them grow, gardening is great wholesome entertainment the whole family can enjoy.

Published: 2006-04-25 00:00:00 read more...

Uncover Hidden Spaces to Find Instant Storage Solutions

What most Americans need is a space program on the home front. Space for all our stuff, that is. Whether it's clothes, paperwork, tech toys, sports gear, hobby tools - or all of the above and more - our possessions need a place of their own, so our homes and our lives are easier to manage.

Published: 2006-04-24 00:00:00 read more...

Sell that House! Clean up with a Pressure Washer to Increase Curb Appeal

People putting a house on the market can increase the likelihood of getting a better purchase price it they first scour the exterior and surroundings with a pressure washer.

Published: 2006-04-21 00:00:00 read more...

Tips to Make Painting Easier

Summer is the season of the "do-it-yourselfer." Handy homeowners come into their own as the weather warms and they can embark on all those home improvement and maintenance tasks that languished all winter. Painting tops the list for many homeowners; it not only protects your interiors, painting is a great way to liven things up.

Published: 2006-04-21 00:00:00 read more...

How to Expand Your Living Space Using the Outdoors

Admit it. You love the great outdoors. Entertaining friends. Watching the kids run through the sprinkler. Napping on your patio. There's a host of life happening outside the home, and more homeowners than ever are seizing the opportunity to make their patios and yards extensions of their living space.

Published: 2006-04-20 00:00:00 read more...

Outdoor Living Made Simple

Admit it. You love the great outdoors. Entertaining friends. Watching the kids run through the sprinkler. Napping on your patio. There's a host of life happening outside the home, and more homeowners than ever are seizing the opportunity to make their patios and yards extensions of their living space.

Published: 2006-04-20 00:00:00 read more...

Brighten Up Your Home In No Time

If you're a homeowner with an area in your home that needs more natural light -- say a hallway, laundry room, closet, or a windowless bath, an easy-to-install skylight could be the answer. And if you're one of the millions of handy do-it-yourselfers in America, you can handle the installation in a weekend morning.

Published: 2006-04-18 00:00:00 read more...

Let There Be Light (in a Weekend Morning)

If you're a homeowner with an area in your home that needs more natural light -- say a hallway, laundry room, closet, or a windowless bath, an easy-to-install skylight could be the answer. And if you're one of the millions of handy do-it-yourselfers in America, you can handle the installation in a weekend morning.

Published: 2006-04-18 00:00:00 read more...

A New Dimension in Home Elegance

The trend in decorating rooms today is to add architectural details that give a new dimension to any space. Crown moulding, chandelier medallions, chair rails and wall niches are just a few examples of the types of details today's homeowners are adding to their rooms to differentiate them from the ordinary.

Published: 2006-04-17 00:00:00 read more...

Express Your Outdoor Living Space with Color

Summer is just around the corner and the longer days and warm summer breezes will definitely draw more family activity outdoors. Many homeowners are building new decks or adding on to existing ones to accommodate larger seating arrangements and BBQ grills. Decks extend the living space of the home and therefore, homeowners want to bring their interior decorating style to their outdoor environment.

Published: 2006-04-17 00:00:00 read more...

Making Your Home More "Green"

As energy costs continue to rise, homeowners should consider alternative ways to help lower their bills -- and help the environment -- by making their homes more "green." In recognition of National Landscape Architecture Month, the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) is raising awareness of the need for sustainable, environmentally sensitive design and how homeowners can help achieve this goal.

Published: 2006-04-17 00:00:00 read more...

Unseen Benefits of Energy Efficient Windows and Doors

When it comes to protecting your home from the damaging effects of the sun, what you can't see - invisible ultraviolet (UV) rays - can definitely impact you. Thankfully, there's an easy and practical solution that provides built-in "sunblock" for the home.

Published: 2006-04-12 00:00:00 read more...

Sunblock for Your Home: Unseen Benefits of Energy Efficient Windows and Doors

When it comes to protecting your home from the damaging effects of the sun, what you can't see - invisible ultraviolet (UV) rays - can definitely impact you. Thankfully, there's an easy and practical solution that provides built-in "sunblock" for the home.

Published: 2006-04-12 00:00:00 read more...

A New Generation of Clematis Meets Modern-Day Garden Design

Flowers and vegetables are popping-up on rooftop gardens in the city, decorating outdoor living rooms in the suburbs and making guest appearances at homes and businesses everywhere in between this spring.

Published: 2006-04-06 00:00:00 read more...

Keep Your Yard Beautiful and Save Water

The old saw "April showers bring May flowers," says it all. Spend the rainy days now planning how you'll enjoy your yard once everything starts blooming, and the sunny days taking care of spring chores that will pay off in the months to come.

Published: 2006-04-05 00:00:00 read more...

Gaining Efficiency in the Kitchen and Bath Without Losing Comfort

In every room of your home there are hidden places where efficiencies can impact your quality of life and your wallet. Energy, water and space are valuable commodities that every consumer has to make decisions about in the lifetime of home ownership and maintenance.

Published: 2006-04-04 00:00:00 read more...

Spring Zing: Small-Scale Home Improvement Projects with Big Results

After bundling up all winter, spring elicits feelings of joy and excitement with its promise of sunshine, warmth and renewed life. Take the cue from Mother Nature and rejuvenate your home this season. Without spending an overwhelming amount of time and money on an extreme remodel, achieve high-impact results with small-scale home improvement projects sure to give any home zing this spring -- inside or out.

Published: 2006-04-03 00:00:00 read more...

Latest Trend in Home Décor: Go Green

Homeowners who want to do something good for the environment, but feel overwhelmed by the task are turning to "green" home products as a way to help conserve natural resources and add beauty to their homes at the same time.

Published: 2006-03-28 00:00:00 read more...

The Look of Logs Without the Work

Who doesn't love the romantic look of a log home perched on a prairie or lake? But no one probably enjoys the work involved in maintaining a log home: caulking, chinking, sanding, sealing, staining, cleaning and battling bugs are never-ending chores. It makes you wonder how old Abe Lincoln ever found the time to leave his log home and run for President.

Published: 2006-03-23 00:00:00 read more...

Chandeliers Make a Comeback

The chandelier is a celebratory lighting fixture that is making a huge comeback in the modern design world. Whether you are selecting a chandelier or light fixture for your dining room or foyer/entry hall, it can be confusing to decide on which size or style is best. Then, once you determine the correct size of light fixture, how do you determine at what height to hang it?

Published: 2006-03-23 00:00:00 read more...

Americans Stepping into Dirty Showers to Get 'Clean'

Americans are cleaning themselves in less than ideal conditions according to the "American Shower Report," a survey of more than 1,000 Americans conducted by Synovate. Results show almost one-third of the respondents admitted to cleaning the shower once a month or less - basically owning up to a dirty shower.

Published: 2006-03-22 00:00:00 read more...

Ready-to-Use Grout Makes it Easy to Install Beautiful Tile or Stone

Nothing makes a statement like the beauty of ceramic tile and natural stone. While many homeowners view designing a room and choosing tile as an exciting way to personalize and enhance the home, they're often nervous about the idea of selecting installation materials and actually setting tile.

Published: 2006-03-21 00:00:00 read more...

Newer, Better Ways to Plumb Your Home

In many ways, today's modern baths seem a far cry from the outdated, germ-ridden plumbing systems of the past. Yet, archaeologists have confirmed that the first operational toilet dates back more than 2,800 years.

Published: 2006-03-21 00:00:00 read more...

Building Your Dream House? Four Important Ideals Not to Overlook...

Few things offer a greater sense of accomplishment than designing, building or customizing a home to your specific desires. Done properly, a home can offer decades of enjoyment to you and your family - with little or no need for major updating or improvements.

Published: 2006-03-17 00:00:00 read more...

Threshold to Luxurious Living

What does your front door say about you? In a culture where customization reigns supreme, discerning homeowners are now choosing more upscale, custom entry doors to make bold statements about their homes and their lifestyles. Homeowners now seek a varying array of options and features in their entry door -- from distinctive hardware to custom wood carvings -- to set the overall tone for their home and enhance curb appeal.

Published: 2006-03-16 00:00:00 read more...

All Decked Out

A deck can add value and usability to a home. It is one of the most basic structures in home construction, and most do-it-yourselfers have the skills to build or embellish one.

Published: 2006-03-16 00:00:00 read more...

Spouting Out Faucet Frustrations

Day in and day out, kitchen faucets get called into action for the toughest and most common household chores: cleaning dishes, rinsing vegetables, washing hands. With so much interaction, consumers are looking at their faucets in new ways - and demanding more functionality and satisfaction than ever before.

Published: 2006-03-15 00:00:00 read more...

Make Sure the Next Level You Buy is 'On the Level'

Levels, those hand tools with bubbles encased in blue or yellow fluid that move when you tilt them, make up a fraction of the 4.7 billion dollars do-it-yourselfers and professionals spend on tools each year, but these handy precision instruments can mean the difference between a job done well and a job done over.

Published: 2006-03-15 00:00:00 read more...

Is Your Toolbox Ready to Take on Springtime Chores?

The long winter months give you plenty of time puttering around the house to notice what needs to be fixed come spring. Since some fix-ups have to wait for warmer weather, now is the time to make sure your toolbox is stocked with supplies and your tools are in good repair and ready to be put to use. Taking inventory now means you won't have to waste time running to the hardware store in the middle of a project.

Published: 2006-03-15 00:00:00 read more...

Stretch the Useful Life of Your Outdoor Power Equipment

The fundamentals of getting outdoor handheld power equipment ready for another season are simple and straightforward: a new spark plug, new fuel and air filters. Fill the tank with fresh fuel/oil premix and go to work. Equipment manufacturers make it even easier by providing the correct parts in a single kit, available from any dealer.

Published: 2006-03-15 00:00:00 read more...

Add Safety to Your Spring Cleaning 'To Do' List

Ah, spring. The flowers come up. The leaves come out. And, the sun shines brightly into your home - highlighting the fact that it's time for some spring cleaning. While you're ridding the house of winter's dust and grime, it's also a good time to take a fresh look at something else your home may be in need of - a thorough safety checkup.

Published: 2006-03-15 00:00:00 read more...

Make this the Year You Actually Finish those Home Improvement Projects

Have you spent the winter months making a mental list of all the home improvement projects you want to tackle once the weather improves? To make sure your good intentions stay on track and those important projects get completed, now is the time to write those things down and start making serious plans.

Published: 2006-03-15 00:00:00 read more...

Tips for Taming Home Improvement Costs

Have you spent the winter months making a mental list of all the home improvement projects you want to tackle once the weather improves? To make sure your good intentions stay on track and those important projects get completed, now is the time to write those things down and start making serious plans.

Published: 2006-03-15 00:00:00 read more...

Get Your Toolbox Ready for Summer Spruce-Ups

The long winter months give you plenty of time puttering around the house to notice what needs to be fixed come spring. Since some fix-ups have to wait for warmer weather, now is the time to make sure your toolbox is stocked with supplies and your tools are in good repair and ready to be put to use. Taking inventory now means you won't have to waste time running to the hardware store in the middle of a project.

Published: 2006-03-15 00:00:00 read more...

Considering a Home Remodel? Make Sure It Will Pay Off

If your family has to wait in line to take a shower, or if you're storing pots and pans in the laundry room due to lack of cabinet space, it could be time to consider a home remodeling project. Not only will an updated space make your house more pleasant for you and your family, it can pay off in higher resale value.

Published: 2006-03-14 00:00:00 read more...

Protecting Your Home and Your Pocketbook

Spring is nearly here. Time to crack open the windows and clean the screens. Does your looming list of spring cleaning also involve home improvement projects? If not, consider adding energy-saving techniques to the list and you'll spare yourself the shock of this season's high energy bills.

Published: 2006-03-10 00:00:00 read more...

What's In Your Window?

When building a new home or updating an existing space, homeowners can become overwhelmed with choices and decisions. From electrical outlet locations to countertop colors to ceiling heights - each decision seems monumental. But if you plan to be in the home long-term, then the agonizing is likely worth it to have exactly what you want and where you want it in your home.

Published: 2006-03-09 00:00:00 read more...

Restoring for Reliability: Tips for Home Renovations in Harsh Climates

Driving rain, gale-force winds, sun exposure and high humidity. For residents in harsh climates, these destructive forces can be dreaded and frequent occurrences. Moreover, last year's hurricanes vividly illustrated to homeowners nationwide the need for protection from the worst that weather can offer.

Published: 2006-03-08 00:00:00 read more...

Why Live with Bathroom Clutter and Chaos?

Maybe it's that pile of used bath towels on the floor. Or the shrine to shampoo that lurks behind your shower curtain. Somewhere in your home, it exists: that scary, clutter-filled bathroom. And, chances are, it's probably your master or your child's bathroom.

Published: 2006-03-08 00:00:00 read more...

Restoring for Reliability: Tips for Home Renovations

Driving rain, gale-force winds, sun exposure and high humidity. For many homeowners, these destructive forces can be dreaded and frequent occurrences. If windows and doors aren't performing, they can cause major problems.

Published: 2006-03-08 00:00:00 read more...

Don't Let Your Home Be Underinsured

With the home improvement season upon us, there is no better time than now to review your homeowners insurance to make sure you have the coverage you need. While Americans spent more than $198 billion in 2004 for home improvements and repairs, only 31 percent said they changed their homeowners coverage to reflect the increased value, according to a recent, national survey of 1,000 people by Farmers Insurance Group.

Published: 2006-03-08 00:00:00 read more...

Year-round Home Energy Saving Tips

With spring in the air, many Americans are ready to breathe a sigh of relief at the thought of warmer weather and lower utility bills.

Published: 2006-03-03 00:00:00 read more...

Dust Off Your Cleaning Supplies and Prepare for the Rite of Spring

Spring cleaning season is here but not everyone is grabbing the mop. According to a recent Web-based survey of 1,000 adults (conducted by TNS *Taylor Nelson Sofres), more than half of the respondents felt spring was the best time of year to clean and organize the home.

Published: 2006-03-03 00:00:00 read more...

Personal Decorating Touches Make a House a Home

No matter what the style of your house - southwestern, Victorian, traditional, modern or contemporary - it's the personal touches you add that make it a home. Design touches drawn from personal experiences, family history, hobbies and interests make your home décor unique and comforting.

Published: 2006-02-28 00:00:00 read more...

Painting Pointers for Spring Projects

Spring is around the corner. Soon, the home improvement expos will return, the season's first brave do-it-yourselfers will appear, and homeowners' fancy will lightly turn to thoughts of painting.

Published: 2006-02-28 00:00:00 read more...

Now's the Time to Plan a Redwood Deck

Building a deck is one of the most popular do-it-yourself projects. It involves relatively simple construction skills, tools and materials. It's also a satisfying and economical way to extend your living activities outdoors. Choose redwood and you'll discover the advantages of working with a quality building material.

Published: 2006-02-27 00:00:00 read more...

NASCAR Driver Michael Waltrip to Mow Race Fan's Lawn

Want your lawn to be the talk of the town? It will be if Michael Waltrip shows up to mow your yard. That's right. NASCAR veteran Michael Waltrip will put his driving skills to work behind the wheel of a Yard-Man mower as he cuts the lawn of one lucky winner of the Yard-Man "Honey, Is That Michael Waltrip Mowing Our Lawn?" sweepstakes.

Published: 2006-02-27 00:00:00 read more...

Installing a New Basement Bathroom?

If you're remodeling the basement of your home and thinking about adding a new bathroom or powder room, that's a smart move. According to Remodel Magazine's "2005 Cost vs. Value" report, homeowners can recoup more than 86 percent of the cost of a bathroom addition.

Published: 2006-02-24 00:00:00 read more...

Simple, Affordable Home Improvements

Ready to trade your mittens for rubber gloves? As spring arrives, along with it comes the spring cleaning season. Not surprisingly, more than 75 percent of Americans set aside specific time to complete an annual cleaning, according to a recent survey. And, the bathroom is the first place homeowners look to make drastic changes.

Published: 2006-02-17 00:00:00 read more...

Make the Most of Your Outdoor Space

If you had to name the biggest wasted space in your home, what would it be? If you have a second story deck, you probably immediately think of the space underneath it. You know, that space that would be perfect for storage, or for a nice comfy chair in the shade, or even a screened in porch - if only it didn't get soaked every time it rains.

Published: 2006-02-16 00:00:00 read more...

Treat Your Home to the Hottest Decorating Trends

Home fashions, like clothing fashions, are always changing. There are updated silhouettes, new color palettes, and fresh fabric designs. And just as with fashion, you need to find a way to personalize the latest trends in a way that fits your home and your lifestyle. What better time than spring to breathe some fresh air into your décor? Get rid of the dark colors and heavy fabrics that kept you cozy during the winter, and lighten it up for spring.

Published: 2006-02-16 00:00:00 read more...

Tile is Tops in Beauty, Flexibility; Least in Lifetime Cost

If you'd been born in the early days of tile (around 4,000 years ago) you could never have afforded the luxury. Once reserved for royalty and the wealthy, ceramic tile is now the most economical type of flooring available, according to an independent study commissioned by the Tile Council of North America.

Published: 2006-02-15 00:00:00 read more...

Create a State-of-the-Art Kitchen with Historical-Style Details

Vintage or period motifs have become one of the hottest trends in home kitchen design, but your Old-World kitchen doesn't need to feature modern-looking faucets to take advantage of the latest technology. Whether creating an original design, restoring an old kitchen, or merely redecorating, more homeowners are turning to new period-style plumbing that offers traditional style with all the modern conveniences.

Published: 2006-02-13 00:00:00 read more...

Designer Decorating: Faux or No?

They say there's nothing like the real thing, but when it comes to today's home decorating trends, the "fools" rule. Homeowners who want beautiful, yet low-maintenance, products are turning to manmade look-alikes for everything from garden pots to garage doors. With many performance and price advantages, faux isn't faux pas anymore.

Published: 2006-02-13 00:00:00 read more...

Fabulous Fakes - Can You Spot the Imitation?

They say there's nothing like the real thing, but when it comes to today's home decorating trends, the "fools" rule. Homeowners who want beautiful, yet low-maintenance, products are turning to manmade look-alikes for everything from garden pots to garage doors. With many performance and price advantages, faux isn't faux pas anymore.

Published: 2006-02-13 00:00:00 read more...

Seven Things Consumers Should Know About Green Spaces

As more and more land in the United States is developed, our appreciation for well-managed and maintained green spaces is growing. The term "green spaces" encompasses elements of the landscape from home and commercial lawns to golf courses, parks and sports turf. And one national non-profit alliance -- Project EverGreen -- is embarking on a mission to raise awareness of the environmental, economic and lifestyle benefits of preserving and enhancing green space in the U.S.

Published: 2006-02-07 00:00:00 read more...

How to Water Wisely for a Better Lawn and Cost Savings

On average, nearly a third of the water used by households nationwide goes to maintaining landscapes and lawns. Improving outdoor watering efficiency is one of the easiest ways for homeowners to reduce their overall water usage-and save money.

Published: 2006-02-07 00:00:00 read more...

Is Your Lawn Going Hungry?

If you're concerned about our global environment, try taking better care of your own lawn -- how you take care of your lawn can make our world a cleaner place. Thick, healthy grass reduces erosion, filters pollutants, provides natural cooling and cleaner air. One of the keys to thick, healthy turf is to follow an annual fertilizing program.

Published: 2006-02-07 00:00:00 read more...

Curb Appeal 101: Exquisite Exteriors Add Charm, Character and Value to the Home

The next time you drive through an upscale neighborhood in your community, take the time to admire a few particular homes that seem to stand out from the crowd. Though you may not recognize it at the time, there's often a common reason why these properties catch your eye. More than likely, the homes incorporate exterior materials and designs that embrace the natural environment, creating a look that is a harmonious blend of architecture and nature.

Published: 2006-02-06 00:00:00 read more...

Celebrity Designer Offers Tips for Creating Curb Appeal on a Budget

If improving your home's curb appeal tops your list of projects to do around the house, take note: creating curb appeal doesn't have to be extensive or expensive.

Published: 2006-02-01 00:00:00 read more...

Springtime Projects that Bring Families Together

Now that Spring has arrived, people everywhere are reintroducing themselves to the great outdoors. Whether you're into sports, gardening or just socializing, there's something for everyone, even the little ones, to do at this time of year.

Published: 2006-01-31 00:00:00 read more...

Don't Let Spring Thaw Damage Your Basement

About this time of year, people start wishing for spring thaw and nicer weather. Spring brings lots of good things, but it can also highlight water problems, especially in basements. Whether it comes from the melting snow that finds its way into your home through cracks in the foundation or humidity which comes in through the walls and the concrete floor, moisture is a bad thing.

Published: 2006-01-31 00:00:00 read more...

The Hottest Trend in New Home Construction

If you're in the market for a new home and planning to build, you'll be pleasantly surprised by all the options available to you. These days, builders are offering all kinds of incentives to get customers through the door.

Published: 2006-01-31 00:00:00 read more...

Don't Let Clogged Drains Ruin Your Party

There's never a good time to have a clogged drain, but some times are worse than others. For example, when your kitchen sink decides to back up during the middle of a dinner party, or when your toilet clogs and overflows while you're hosting house guests.

Published: 2006-01-26 00:00:00 read more...

Update Your Kitchen or Bath with Easy Faucet Installation Tips

Changing a faucet is one of the best ways to update a kitchen or bath without the time, expense and inconvenience of a full-scale renovation. Faucets serve as a focal point in the kitchen and bath, and stylish new fixtures with matching accessories can give these important rooms a refreshing new appearance.

Published: 2006-01-25 00:00:00 read more...

Homeowners Get Cooking with Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor cooking areas are the hottest trend in residential landscape design, thanks in no small part to the versatility of segmental retaining wall systems (SRWs). They can range from a modest firepit to a full-blown outdoor kitchen that will rival the most lavish indoor cooking areas, complete with stainless-steel appliances, granite countertops and fully plumbed sinks.

Published: 2006-01-24 00:00:00 read more...

Tool Talk for Women

When it comes to basic home maintenance and home improvement projects, more and more women are doing it for themselves. Tapping this trend, many tool manufacturers now offer a range of products designed to appeal to this fastest-growing segment of the home improvement market.

Published: 2006-01-24 00:00:00 read more...

Outdoor Painting Prep Made Easier

Painting a home's exterior is a big project, but one that pays off in curb appeal as well as protection for your home. Having the right tools can make the job easier, faster and produce more professional-looking results.

Published: 2006-01-10 00:00:00 read more...

What's Hot in Home Decor For 2006

For months, industry experts have kept a close barometer on the fashion world, trade shows and other key indicators to help forecast home decor trends for the coming year. And the weather report is in. Within a prevailing climate of personalization, the outlook is both spirited and sassy, serene and stylish.

Published: 2006-01-03 00:00:00 read more...

Warm Up Any Room with a Fireplace

What's hot for your home? A second fireplace installed anywhere in the house. Traditionally, homes have been built with one wood-burning fireplace in the living or family room.

Published: 2006-01-03 00:00:00 read more...

Make Your Floor a Showpiece

Sometimes older is better (ask any wine connoisseur). But sometimes, new technology and techniques create a product that is better than the original.

Published: 2006-01-02 00:00:00 read more...

Wide Plank Floors and Radiant Heat - a Great Combination

Wide plank floors are prized for their weathered patina and the sense of history and character that they add to a room. Among the many attributes of wide plank floors is the fact that they can be used with radiant heat.

Published: 2006-01-02 00:00:00 read more...

Old Wood Gets New Life as Reclaimed Antique Flooring

Where some might see a crumbling old barn or a dilapidated factory, Don Carlisle sees an opportunity to preserve history and beautify a home at the same time. Carlisle's Stoddard, N.H. based company has been reclaiming antique wood and turning it into new floors for nearly 40 years.

Published: 2006-01-02 00:00:00 read more...

Everything New is Old Again

"Distress" is not necessarily a bad thing if you are talking about wide plank hardwood floors. In fact, hand-distressing - the process of making new wood appear old is an increasingly popular design technique.

Published: 2006-01-02 00:00:00 read more...

Tips for Remodeling Projects That Add Value to Your Home

Whether you are planning to sell your home or just want a new look, remodeling can lend one of the greatest returns on your investments and puts your home equity to work for you. The best returns come from updated flooring and remodeled kitchens and bathrooms, which, upon sale of your home, typically recover an average of 90 percent of the costs.

Published: 2005-12-28 00:00:00 read more...

New Government Mandate Affects Home Cooling Systems, Efficiency

About 50 percent of the energy used in a typical home today is spent on heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It's no wonder that your utility bills can be as unpredictable as the weather! Now is the time to learn a little bit about the new government standards affecting air conditioners and heat pumps and to consider purchasing a new home comfort system that could help you save substantial money over the years ahead.

Published: 2005-12-22 00:00:00 read more...

Ways to Save on Home Cooling

About 50 percent of the energy used in a typical home today is spent on heating and cooling, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It's no wonder that your utility bills can be as unpredictable as the weather! Now is the time to learn a little bit about the new government standards affecting air conditioners and heat pumps and to consider purchasing a new home comfort system that could help you save substantial money over the years ahead.

Published: 2005-12-22 00:00:00 read more...

Ten Tips to Liven Up Your Deck

Your kitchen might be the heart of your house, but your deck is the heart of your backyard. It's the place where you gather with friends and family, enjoy home-cooked meals, and relax after a long day at work.

Published: 2005-12-20 00:00:00 read more...

More Protection Needed from Household Fires

Fire-related deaths in this country have decreased in recent years thanks to better technologies and consumer education, but the U.S. fire problem remains one of the worst in the industrial world on a per capita basis.

Published: 2005-12-14 00:00:00 read more...

Avoiding Slips and Falls

'Tis the season . . . for family visits and festive gatherings. It's also the time of year for Mother Nature's worst. Rain, sleet and ice coupled with less sunlight may have you worried about company - or yourself - slipping on sidewalks or driveways. But did you know there's another area of your home that poses a greater risk for falls and accidents than anywhere else? And it's the one place you and your visitors can't avoid - the bathroom.

Published: 2005-11-30 00:00:00 read more...

Come in Out of the Dark This Winter

Ever feel uncomfortable entering a dark, empty house? Chances are you have, whether in the pit of your stomach or somewhere in the back of your mind. So then why is it that you don't feel uncomfortable when entering a well lit home?

Published: 2005-11-30 00:00:00 read more...

Avoiding Slips and Falls This Holiday Season

'Tis the season . . . for family visits and festive gatherings. It's also the time of year for Mother Nature's worst. Rain, sleet and ice coupled with less sunlight may have you worried about company - or yourself - slipping on sidewalks or driveways. But did you know there's another area of your home that poses a greater risk for falls and accidents than anywhere else? And it's the one place you and your visitors can't avoid - the bathroom.

Published: 2005-11-30 00:00:00 read more...

New Generation of Track Lighting Blends Beauty and Versatility

Jewel-toned glass pendants, suspended by a slender, graceful cable from a sinuous silver track - clearly, this is "not your father's" track lighting. The new generation of track lighting brings design-friendly beauty to what has always been one of the most versatile lighting styles available.

Published: 2005-11-29 00:00:00 read more...

Holiday Gift Ideas for the Handyperson

Is there someone on your holiday list who thrives on home improvement projects? Chances are, your favorite handyperson is always eager for a new tool.

Published: 2005-11-23 00:00:00 read more...

Buying a Home and Looking for More in a Home Builder

This year an estimated 2 million Americans are expected to build a new home. As with any home decision, the choice of a home builder will largely be based on three popular criteria: neighborhood location, cost and design style.

Published: 2005-11-23 00:00:00 read more...

Don't Get Left Out in the Cold - Study Provides Energy Saving Suggestions for Winter

With winter heating costs projected to reach all-time highs this year, many Americans will have more to shiver about than just the cold temperatures.

Published: 2005-11-18 00:00:00 read more...

Get the High-end Kitchen Look for Less

The kitchen has long been considered the heart of the home. What, then, is its soul? A recent survey by Whirlpool home appliances shows new homebuyers consider ovens the most important kitchen appliances.

Published: 2005-11-17 00:00:00 read more...

Holidays Got You Squeezed? Finish Your Basement in the Nick of Time!

'Tis the season for visiting relatives . . . neighborhood open houses . . . friends gathered for bowl games . . . and the sinking feeling that you need more room in your house.

Published: 2005-11-09 00:00:00 read more...

Take Back Your Home

If your home has been damaged by hurricanes, flooding or even leaky plumbing, there's a good chance that it's harboring mold growth. Homeowners can take back their property -- and prevent mold from coming back -- by taking a systematic approach.

Published: 2005-10-31 00:00:00 read more...

Quick Tips to Get Your Bathroom Ready for Holiday Entertaining

Chances are you'll be welcoming guests into your home during the winter holiday season that lasts from Thanksgiving to the New Year. As you think about sprucing up your home for holiday entertaining, don't forget about the bathroom. After all, it's a good bet that's one part of your home that just about every guest will visit.

Published: 2005-10-18 00:00:00 read more...

Storm Doors Help Cut Heating Costs

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that home heating prices will jump by 47.5 percent this winter, the biggest one-year increase in three decades. But not everyone is going to be severely impacted.

Published: 2005-10-18 00:00:00 read more...

Outfitting a Tool Box: What to Consider When Selecting Tools for Household Tasks

- Homeowners are increasingly becoming do-it-yourselfers, choosing to take on more home improvement and repair projects by themselves. According to a 2004 national study on consumer usage of tools by Mintel, an international market research firm, 74 percent of men and 65 percent of women reported doing home repair or improvement projects themselves.

Published: 2005-10-13 00:00:00 read more...

The Real Story Behind ABC's

The show ABC is hoping will be one of the biggest hits of the season has raised a lot of eyebrows in Chicago. "Hot Properties," a sitcom about four women who run a Manhattan real estate office, just debuted this fall. It takes its title from a company that has become synonymous with residential real estate in the Chicagoland area.

Published: 2005-10-07 00:00:00 read more...

The Real Story Behind ABC's 'Hot Properties'

The show ABC is hoping will be one of the biggest hits of the season has raised a lot of eyebrows in Chicago. "Hot Properties," a sitcom about four women who run a Manhattan real estate office, just debuted this fall. It takes its title from a company that has become synonymous with residential real estate in the Chicagoland area.

Published: 2005-10-07 00:00:00 read more...

Make Your House a Hot Property

The show ABC is hoping will be one of the biggest hits of the season has raised a lot of eyebrows in Chicago. "Hot Properties," a sitcom about four women who run a Manhattan real estate office, just debuted this fall. It takes its title from a company that has become synonymous with residential real estate in the Chicagoland area.

Published: 2005-10-07 00:00:00 read more...

Give Your Child a Gift that Will Help Him or Her Learn and Grow This Holiday Season

From the day a child is born, it is the parents' job to help their child grow and develop. Early on, the nurturing is done through close contact, speech and touch; as the child gets older, by providing him or her with an environment in which to thrive.

Published: 2005-10-05 00:00:00 read more...

Time to Turn on the Heat!

It happens every year. The winter months come and we watch our heating bills double or triple in costs. The Energy Information Administration is already predicting that the cost of natural gas this winter could increase by as much as 70 percent in the Midwest and 30 percent in the Northeast.

Published: 2005-10-04 00:00:00 read more...

Why It's So Important to Protect Your Home From Moisture

Right now it's pretty dry outside; but when winter ends and spring begins, chances are good you'll have problems with moisture in your basement. Whether it comes from the melting snow that finds its way into your home through cracks in the foundation or humidity which comes in through the walls and the concrete floor, moisture is a bad thing.

Published: 2005-09-28 00:00:00 read more...

Enjoy a Trip to a Relaxing Spa -- in Your Own Bathroom

Have you ever enjoyed an hour or even a day at a spa, then returned home thinking, "Wow! I could use this kind of treatment every day!" Well you can. It doesn't take a lot of money or time to turn your so-so bathroom into your personal spa. Here's how to do it.

Published: 2005-09-26 00:00:00 read more...

Winter Wellness

Why is it that winter seems to take so much out of us? Is it the holidays, the cold weather, or the continuous fight to keep from catching a cold or getting the flu? For whatever reason it's more work to be healthy in the wintertime than in the summer months.

Published: 2005-09-22 00:00:00 read more...

Movies for the Great Indoors

As the seasons change, so do movie viewing habits -- from movie theaters to home theaters. According to a recent Associated Press-America Online poll, 73 percent of adults said they prefer watching movies at home rather than in theaters.

Published: 2005-09-21 00:00:00 read more...

Fall Home Deck-orating: Creating an Outdoor Space for All Seasons

Does the approaching season not only cool the air but also chill your spirits? If the first cold snap sends you indoors to embrace warm blankets, you'll be happy to know your enjoyment of outdoor living spaces doesn't need to succumb to the elements.

Published: 2005-09-21 00:00:00 read more...

Turn Your Powder Room into a Showstopper

You spend hours setting the perfect table, scrubbing your hardwood floors and wiping the dust from your bookshelves, but what will your dinner guests notice the most? A welcoming and beautiful powder room.

Published: 2005-09-16 00:00:00 read more...

Seven Tips to Slash Soaring Home Heating Bills

The bad news from Hurricane Katrina is now spreading across the country. The Department of Energy states natural gas prices will leap up to 71 percent this fall and winter, due to damage caused by the storm. This translates into a $600 jump in home heating for most homeowners, according to the Georgia Public Service Commission.

Published: 2005-09-16 00:00:00 read more...

How to Welcome Friends and Influence Neighbors

Ever wonder what's the secret to a warm, welcoming entry way? Wonder no more. Use these design tips from notable experts to best package your front door for a first impression that not only says welcome, but wow!

Published: 2005-09-08 00:00:00 read more...

Intelligent Appliances Coming Soon to a Home Near You

Twenty years ago, the idea of a world where machines did most of the work, leaving you with more leisure time, was an extraordinary concept. Technology that cut down so much work that we'd actually have time on our hands was an idea meant solely for the Jetson's.

Published: 2005-09-07 00:00:00 read more...

Tailor Your Home this Fall

If you're looking for the latest trend in home design, take a look around the men's department next time you're at the mall. "Menswear trends are making the transition to home styles this year," says Chris Tennyson, director of visual merchandising for Bombay.

Published: 2005-09-06 00:00:00 read more...

Don't 'Fall' Behind on Plumbing Maintenance

Cool autumn weekends are ideal for catching up on home maintenance projects that were better avoided during the dog days of summer. One item that should be on every homeowner's "to do" list is protecting your home's plumbing system from cold temperatures, which can cause pipes to freeze and burst.

Published: 2005-09-06 00:00:00 read more...

Get Your Deck and House Ready for Winter - and Spring

As the temperatures cool down, you may be thinking your list of outdoor chores is coming to an end - no more mowing the lawn, no more weeding the flower beds. You may also be tempted to leave the refinishing of your deck or the repainting of your home until next spring, too.

Published: 2005-09-01 00:00:00 read more...

Small Home Improvement Fix Ups can Help Avert Big Winter Woes

With winter quickly approaching, most homeowners are painfully aware of the preparation work that needs to be done before the cold weather arrives. From painting to weatherproofing to putting in storm windows and organizing the garage, there are plenty of challenging home improvement projects to tackle before winter settles in.

Published: 2005-08-30 00:00:00 read more...

A Loo that Says "You"

After years of fashion experimentation, fitting rooms, and perhaps some dubious lapses in judgment, most of us have developed a unique personal style -- we know what works for us. But when it comes to decorating our homes, particularly our bathrooms, style preferences can be harder to pin down.

Published: 2005-08-30 00:00:00 read more...

Turn Underutilized Space into a Recreation Room, Home Office or Extra Bedroom

Attics and bonus rooms lurk in the darkness in many homes. But with the additional natural light and fresh air skylights and roof windows provide, underutilized, gloomy space easily becomes a playroom for children, a recreation room or an inviting, productive work area.

Published: 2005-08-29 00:00:00 read more...

Bring the Benefits of Natural Light into Your Home

When you think of skylights you may picture them as unattractive, inefficient, fading plastic bubbles that leak. If so, you're probably thinking, to paraphrase an old auto commercial, of "your father's skylights."

Published: 2005-08-29 00:00:00 read more...

Selecting the Best Type of Replacement Window for Your Home

So you've decided to replace your rotted, leaky windows. That decision was relatively easy considering new windows provide returns through energy cost savings and even greater returns in an increased home value. You've made a wise decision.

Published: 2005-08-29 00:00:00 read more...

Natural Light from Above Important for Health

Bringing more natural light into our daily lives may be more important for our health than we realize. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is known to be related to how much sunlight we receive. Individuals with SAD may experience emotional depression, a drop in physical energy, increased appetite, and increased need for sleep.

Published: 2005-08-29 00:00:00 read more...

Creating the Perfect Space for Today's Nesting Baby Boomer

More than 79 million baby boomers are remodeling or purchasing homes favorable to the changes in their lifestyle once the kids have left for college and they plan ahead for retirement. As such, there are several factors to consider when creating the perfect nest.

Published: 2005-08-29 00:00:00 read more...

Five Reasons Why Your Home Needs New Siding

It's not too late for homeowners to evaluate their home this year and make it more energy efficient. While a barrel of oil is at an all-time high and natural gas prices nearly doubled, homeowners should take action to save money and make their home more beautiful.

Published: 2005-08-29 00:00:00 read more...

Beyond Fads: 5 Trends in Kitchen Design That Are Here to Stay

We've all seen them…the decorating TV shows that trumpet the latest high fashion trends in kitchens -- from glass countertops to microwaves that double as flat screen televisions. It's easy to get caught up in the hype for the latest high-priced item, but what trends are worth your attention and investment?

Published: 2005-08-26 00:00:00 read more...

Gas Heating Appliances: Keep Your Money from Going up the Chimney

What you don't know about your chimney can hurt you, especially if you have a gas-heating appliance that uses your masonry chimney as a venting system. Every day, without any visible signs, acid produced by your gas appliance may be eating away at the inside of your chimney.

Published: 2005-08-26 00:00:00 read more...

If You're Looking for a Quieter Home, Start with the Right Plumbing

With the cost of building the average home higher than ever, buyers are demanding higher quality in both the materials used during construction, as well as the workmanship. Although quality is subjective, there are some tangible ways to help consumers compare homes. One measurement that is receiving more focus these days is the noise level within the home.

Published: 2005-08-25 00:00:00 read more...

Composite Decks Leave Lasting Impression

Matthew Grocki's a handy guy, so he's usually eager to tackle projects around his New Hampshire home; but he wasn't looking forward to replacing his backyard deck this past spring. It was made of pressure-treated wood and after ten years of battling harsh winters, his deck was cracked and warped.

Published: 2005-08-25 00:00:00 read more...

Easy Tips for Taking Your Deck from "Autumn Drab" to "Fall Fab"

Spring may be the time for renewal but when it comes to your backyard deck a pinch of care, a dash of improvements and a touch of TLC is just the right recipe for taking your deck from "Autumn Drab" to "Fall Fab."

Published: 2005-08-25 00:00:00 read more...

Proper Install Improves It All

Fall's seasonable temperatures offer a great opportunity to help get your home ready for the rigors of winter. Spend a few weekends winterizing your home now and you'll reap the benefits of lower energy bills and a highly efficient home no matter what the season.

Published: 2005-08-24 00:00:00 read more...

Polywood Shutters: A Beautiful Year-round Solution for Seasonal Energy Conservation

Winterizing your home to save on energy bills does not always have to be a seasonal hassle, or one that is repeated year after year. An important way to start preparing for winter weather is to properly insulate your windows, a common escape route for warm air inside your house.

Published: 2005-08-24 00:00:00 read more...

Beautify Your Home Exterior in No Time

Do you ever wonder what your neighbors think of your home when they drive by? Is the home's exterior well kept or in need of repair? Beautifying your home is easier than you think. There are a number of time-saving, cost-effective ways to enhance your home's curb appeal and increase its value over the long term.

Published: 2005-08-24 00:00:00 read more...

Fall Into Gear: Tips for Making Your Home Energy Efficient

Fall is upon us, and with this finicky weather comes the great debate: Do we retreat indoors to escape sultry Indian-summer temps or find solace from frost-laden dew? Whether you're pumping up the heat or blasting cool air, we've got some energy-efficient tips to help you prepare your home for the coming change in season.

Published: 2005-08-19 00:00:00 read more...

How to Create the Home of Your Dreams

Options, accessories, alterations, choices, selection -- call it whatever you want, how we live today is all about customization. Whether you are shopping for a pair of shoes, an automobile or even a home, you can have it made your way. The options we have in front of us are limited only by our imagination.

Published: 2005-08-18 00:00:00 read more...

Quick Tips for Easy Home Winterization

With cooler temperatures and shorter days looming on the horizon, it's time to get started on those projects to winterize your home. Home winterization is often overlooked, yet it is very important for the upkeep of your house. Fall is the perfect time for these projects, and there are many things you can do now to ready your home for the many cold months ahead.

Published: 2005-08-18 00:00:00 read more...

Fall Tune-Up Tips for Your Home Will Ensure Comfort All Winter Long

Homeowners are creatures of comfort, and with colder days ahead, now is the time to ensure your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are in tip-top shape to provide a comfortable indoor environment all winter long.

Published: 2005-08-16 00:00:00 read more...

Outdoor Home Renovations Gaining in Popularity

The latest trend in home remodeling is to -- as they say in the business world -- "think outside the box." According to the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University, while kitchen and bathroom remodels remain the top two home improvement projects, more and more people are updating their exteriors as well.

Published: 2005-08-09 00:00:00 read more...

Choosing Custom Cabinetry for the Kitchen of your Dreams

Kitchen cabinets are the most visible and used part of any kitchen. They represent your largest kitchen investment and are probably the most confusing of all the decisions you'll make for a new kitchen. So, before you take the leap, do your homework.

Published: 2005-08-01 00:00:00 read more...

Trend in Garage Redesign Drives Thousands of Homeowners to 'America's Ultimate Garage' Contest

When John Crilly of Wheaton, Ill., entered "America's Ultimate Garage" contest in 2004, he had big dreams of winning an amazing garage makeover. Then it happened. He was chosen as the grand prize winner among the more than 10,000 entries submitted, and his "ultimate garage" makeover has just begun.

Published: 2005-07-29 00:00:00 read more...

Two Minute DIY Solution for an Invigorating Shower

Homeowners usually target the bathroom when they set out to spruce the home up, according to a survey by Kitchen and Bath Business magazine. Bathroom improvements offer a dramatic return on the investment, especially when they are handled as do-it-yourself projects.

Published: 2005-07-28 00:00:00 read more...

Unleash a Flood of Possibilities When You Update Your Bathroom

The bathrooms in our home can be one of the most noticeably outdated rooms in the house. That pretty pink tile that's cracked beyond repair. The faucet that shines a bright shiny brass, yet showcases some nice green tarnish spots. And, the tiny, neglected showerhead that has residue build-up in it from 1972.

Published: 2005-07-26 00:00:00 read more...

Update Your Kitchen with Stainless Steel Hardware

So you took the plunge and have a new stainless steel refrigerator, dishwasher, range or countertop in your kitchen. Its cool, sleek look provides a centerpiece for one of the most-used rooms in the house, but don't overlook the details.

Published: 2005-07-25 00:00:00 read more...

Budget Baths with Beautiful Results

While you may envision your ideal bathroom with a sunken tub, steam shower and marble floors, many homeowners don't have the budget for these dream rooms. However, a modest budget doesn't mean you can't create a bathroom that is stylish, updated and enjoyable.

Published: 2005-07-25 00:00:00 read more...

Tips for Increasing Your Home's Resale Value

Selling your house? There are many ways to get top dollar for your home without spending a lot of time and money. All it takes is a little bit of ingenuity and a few tried-and-true home improvement tips.

Published: 2005-07-25 00:00:00 read more...

Create a Seamless Transition from Indoor to Outdoor Kitchen

The outdoor kitchen continues to gain in popularity as an enhancement for new homes and remodeling projects. The heart of the home is expanding to the great outdoors with cooking and lounging areas, often with nothing but blue skies for walls and ceilings.

Published: 2005-07-22 00:00:00 read more...

The Perfect Shower Every Time

Ahh, the shower. It can wake you up, soothe your senses or relax your body -- and it starts the minute you step into the water. But, do you prefer a powerful spray, a gentle rainshower or a pulsating massage? With so many options to choose from, today's showers do more than get you clean.

Published: 2005-07-21 00:00:00 read more...

Take the Chore Out of Doing Laundry with a Well-designed Utility Room

Laundry. It's a never-ending chore; but today's laundry rooms are making this mundane task more efficient and convenient. Rising from the basement to the first -- and even second floors -- these rooms are being transformed into multi-purpose centers where homeowners not only have room to store cleaning and pet supplies but also have space for craft and sewing projects. Learn how storage and small details can make your laundry room more useful.

Published: 2005-07-21 00:00:00 read more...

Cleaning Up: How to Update a Bathroom without Demolition

Do you have any skeletons in your closet? Or, more specifically, your bathroom? If you feel the need to scurry guests away from a dilapidated bathroom and suffer from extreme embarrassment at the thought of its discovery, it is probably time to address the problem head-on.

Published: 2005-07-21 00:00:00 read more...

Get a Grip on Bathroom Storage to Clean Up Your Clutter

Have you been bitten by the organizing bug? Are you constantly searching for new spots in your home for storage? If so, you're not alone. Suddenly, organizing your home spaces is "in" and there are entire television shows, magazines and stores devoted to helping homeowners clean up their act.

Published: 2005-07-18 00:00:00 read more...

Liven Up Your Kitchen or Bathroom with Creative Flooring

The next time you get the urge to update the look in your kitchen or bathroom, you don't have to start pricing out cabinets and fixtures. There's a new design trend sweeping the nation. These days more and more people are setting the stage for a new look by replacing their flooring.

Published: 2005-07-15 00:00:00 read more...

Make Fall Cleanup Easier

Summer goes by so quickly, you don't want to miss a minute of it. But as the days get shorter and the temperatures cool down, the signs are unmistakable - fall is on its way. And even though you know you need to be preparing your lawn, garden and home for the coming months, who wants to waste precious summer days doing chores? Here are some tips to get those pesky tasks finished quickly so you can enjoy your weekends.

Published: 2005-07-14 00:00:00 read more...

Outdoor Living Made Easy

Outdoor living spaces have never been more popular. According to one recent study, nearly half of all new homes are either built with an attached deck or the new homeowners add one within five years. That's a lot of new decks.

Published: 2005-07-14 00:00:00 read more...

Improving the Quality of Natural Light in Your Home

In today's homes, many of which are on small lots with close-by neighbors, privacy is sometimes hard to find without closing the doors and covering the windows. And privacy in bedrooms and bathrooms is not just a convenience, it's a necessity. What's the answer? Simply look up.

Published: 2005-07-13 00:00:00 read more...

How to Make Cleaning Up Life's Little Messes Easier

If you had to venture a guess, which room in the house would you consider the dirtiest? Most people would probably say the bathroom, but according to a recent study by the Lysol Corporation, it actually comes in second. The dubious distinction goes to the place where you prepare food for your family -- the kitchen.

Published: 2005-07-06 00:00:00 read more...

One of the Best Kept Secrets in the Cleaning Industry

When your son or daughter draws on the walls with crayons, you drop a bowl of spaghetti on the floor sending sauce flying everywhere, or you finally get tired of the mildew stains in the shower, what do you do? Most people run to the cupboard and grab paper towels and the cleaner they feel is most appropriate, then are left frustrated when the stain doesn't come out.

Published: 2005-07-06 00:00:00 read more...

Don't Replace Your Vinyl Siding, Renew It

Getting tired of that faded vinyl siding on your home? Many homeowners believe their only alternative is to replace siding that has lost its luster as a result of UV radiation and acid rain. But there is a less expensive solution.

Published: 2005-06-29 00:00:00 read more...

Prevent Power Disturbances from Damaging Electronics during Summer Storm Season

Summer is storm season and with it comes power disturbances. While many know to stay away from downed lines, flooding and debris, small businesses and home-offices are often in the dark about knowing what to do to protect electronic office equipment, such as computers and printers, from power disturbances.

Published: 2005-06-23 00:00:00 read more...

Keeping Your Cool This Summer

The heat is on! Summer is upon us and many homeowners worry as the temperature continues to rise, so will their utility bills. No need to panic. There are several ways to control the comfort level of your indoor air while still keeping energy consumption down.

Published: 2005-06-23 00:00:00 read more...

Putting the New Generation of TVs on Display

These days, when you go into a store to buy a new TV, the decisions you make have less to do with brand and more to do with type. While the old-style cathode ray tube (CRT) TVs that most people grew up with are still strong sellers, a new generation of television sets is gaining in popularity.

Published: 2005-06-22 00:00:00 read more...

Transform Your Space with Decorative Lighting

Now that summer is here, a lot of people are considering home improvement projects, but you don't have to tear down walls or rearrange the furniture to make a statement. In most cases, reworking the lighting is all it will take to transform a room from "drab" to "fab."

Published: 2005-06-10 00:00:00 read more...

Outdoor Lighting Provides Safety, Security and Style

Outdoor lighting products can be used for a variety of reasons. They help accentuate gardens, fountains and landscaping so you can enjoy the beauty of your outdoor living space. In addition, many studies have shown that a well-lit house will deter criminals. Plus, a lit pathway can help show the way through the yard and keep you from trampling your garden or from tripping and falling.

Published: 2005-06-10 00:00:00 read more...

Celebrity Designer, Vern Yip Shares Secrets on What's Hot and What's Not in Kitchens and Bathrooms

When it comes to kitchens and bathrooms, the product options are endless, and choosing the right styles can be overwhelming. Luckily, celebrity designer and author, Vern Yip comes to the rescue with quick tips that are functional and practical for your design style.

Published: 2005-06-09 00:00:00 read more...

Proper Care Ensures Long Life for Vinyl Pool Liners

Homeowners with backyard swimming pools depend on vinyl pool liners to keep their pools looking beautiful season after season. Nearly 70 percent of the residential pools in the United States rely on durable and easy to clean printed flexible vinyl to protect the interior pool surface from environmental elements and manmade conditions.

Published: 2005-06-06 00:00:00 read more...

Innovation Makes Kitchens Convenient, Functional and Stylish

The kitchen has become the center of the action in today's home. It's used for everything from entertaining to doing homework. Oh, and cooking, too. The amenities found in the kitchen reflect this multi-tasking. You're likely to find a computer and a television in the room in addition to more traditional appliances.

Published: 2005-06-06 00:00:00 read more...

Demand for Composite Decking on the Rise

Few products have had such a dramatic effect on the home improvement industry as composite decking over the last few years. With few exceptions, building products generally change very little from year to year.

Published: 2005-06-03 00:00:00 read more...

Hidden Dangers to Address When Building Your New Home

When building our new homes, we focus most on the aesthetics -- the size of the bedroom, the color of the walls, the countertop materials. But there are other more important and often ignored structural aspects that need to be addressed first, in order to build homes that are strong, durable and well-protected.

Published: 2005-06-03 00:00:00 read more...

Would Your Roof Make it Through a Natural Disaster?

Mother Nature hasn't been too kind to homeowners or insurance companies during the past year, most recently to Hurricane Katrina victims along the Gulf Coast.

Published: 2005-05-25 00:00:00 read more...

Would Your Roof Make it Through a Hail Storm?

Mother nature hasn't been too kind to homeowners or insurance companies in the past year or so.

Published: 2005-05-25 00:00:00 read more...

The Paint Professional's Guide to Exterior Painting

After a long winter and temperamental spring, the summer season has arrived and offers a great opportunity for tackling exterior painting before hosting those backyard barbeques and summer get-togethers.

Published: 2005-05-25 00:00:00 read more...

Peace and Quiet ... in the Bathroom!

If the trend in upgrading the bathroom to a bigger more tranquil area continues, it won't be long before high-end bathrooms replace formal dining rooms. Options abound for the bath including steam saunas, air bath therapy, tubs with lighting and fragrances and sinks and toilets at every price level.

Published: 2005-05-24 00:00:00 read more...

Today's Laminate Flooring -- Long on Style, Short on Installation and Maintenance

Today's homeowners want it all -- the time-tested beauty of natural finishes as well as easy installation, exceptional durability and low maintenance. Laminate flooring is an ideal flooring solution, uniquely engineered to offer "it all" for busy, design-savvy families.

Published: 2005-05-23 00:00:00 read more...

Outdoor Painting Made Easy

Is your home's exterior a bit worse for the wear after winter's onslaught of snow, ice and wind? Or perhaps it just needs a little freshening up to welcome the new season. Either way, it pays to invest in tools that will help you do a professional job, and get it done quickly so you can enjoy the fruits of your labors.

Published: 2005-05-23 00:00:00 read more...

Designing the Gourmet Kitchen -- From the Inside, Out

Gourmet cooking and entertaining can be frustrating, even for the seasoned cook. With guests now congregating in the kitchen while the meal is being prepared, fumbling around in the back of your cabinets for that long lost spice jar, gadget or serving tray can turn cooking into a chore.

Published: 2005-05-20 00:00:00 read more...

Don't Get Soaked: Hot Water Tanks and Washing Machines are Costing Home Owners More Time and Money

When Robert and Rosalinda Wells moved into their new home in West Linn, Ore., last Thanksgiving, it was the realization of a dream. After a three-week trip back to California to pack up their belongings, they were looking forward to enjoying their new home.

Published: 2005-05-20 00:00:00 read more...

Retractable Awnings Turn Decks and Patios into Added Living Space

These days, more and more homeowners are expanding their space not with additions but retractable awnings.

Published: 2005-05-20 00:00:00 read more...

Walk-in Baths a Boon to those with Limited Mobility

There's nothing quite like a long, relaxing soak in the bath to ease aches and pains, wash away stress and promote well-being. However, for many individuals, climbing in and out of a conventional tub is too dangerous or physically impossible.

Published: 2005-05-19 00:00:00 read more...

1950s Design Grows Up to Meet the Needs of Today's Families

In the middle of the last century, American homes enjoyed a rise in design and technology. Modern conveniences such as televisions, dishwashers and small appliances found their way into every home.

Published: 2005-05-18 00:00:00 read more...

Why Laminate Countertops are Coming Back -- Even Though They Never Went Away

If you've been shopping for new countertops, chances are you've been shown the latest in granite, artificial stone, or even cement. But has anyone reminded you about the advantages of and advancements in the most popular countertop surface today -- decorative laminate?

Published: 2005-05-18 00:00:00 read more...

The Beauty of this Floor Isn't Only Skin-Deep

A lot of floors look good - but as your mother always told you, looks aren't everything. A floor should also be comfortable to walk and sit on, easy to care for, simple to install and durable. In short, it should appeal to all your senses.

Published: 2005-05-18 00:00:00 read more...

A Simple Way to Increase Outdoor Living Space

For those homeowners looking to add to their living space, improve their lifestyle and increase the resale value of their home, the perfect solution is to extend your living area outdoors through the addition of decks, patios, outdoor kitchens and entertainment areas.

Published: 2005-05-18 00:00:00 read more...

A Thorough Cleaning Can Make Your Home Look Like New

Warmer weather means home improvement for many Americans. But, before you hire workers or purchase expensive tools to transform your home, consider the little things you can do that may make a big difference.

Published: 2005-05-18 00:00:00 read more...

Eliminate the Summer Task You're Dreading the Most

Before you know it, summer will be here and there'll be no more excuses for avoiding those outdoor projects you've been meaning to complete. Time to put weather stripping on the windows, clean out the gutters, reseal the driveway and restain the deck.

Published: 2005-05-17 00:00:00 read more...

New Three-in-one Product Makes it Easier to Hit the Deck

Spring showers might have brought summer flowers, but odds are the raindrops haven't been beading on the surface of most decks. Studies show that nearly 40 million American homes have wood decks, yet only 25 percent of those decks are stained and sealed each year.

Published: 2005-05-17 00:00:00 read more...

Corrosion, Low Water Flow Top Reasons to Repipe Home

Plumbing systems don't typically fail overnight. Rather, failure is often a long, gradual process of corrosion and scale forming inside and around copper pipes that run throughout the home.

Published: 2005-05-16 00:00:00 read more...

Window Shopping: What to Know Before You Go

While window shopping may seem as clear as glass, there a number of things that homeowners should consider when determining the window that best meets their building or remodeling project needs. Different styles of windows and types of frames and glass create a myriad of choices.

Published: 2005-05-16 00:00:00 read more...

Give Your House a Real Makeover This Summer

Thanks to America's aging housing inventory, more and more homes are in need of improvements to bring them up to date with the times. Now that summer is here, it only makes sense that home remodeling projects are on a lot of people's minds.

Published: 2005-05-16 00:00:00 read more...

Keep Summer Heat Outside with Shutters Inside

From the intense dry heat of the Southwest to the hot, humid climate of the East Coast and Midwest, summer means battling the heat! This time of year, homeowners across the country are fighting to lower air conditioning bills, protect furniture from the harsh rays of the sun, and keep their families cool and comfortable.

Published: 2005-05-11 00:00:00 read more...

Texture, Texture on the Wall: It's the Hottest Look of All

Do-it-yourself decorators are discovering what A-list interior designers have known for years: Naturally textured wallpapers do much more than add instant glamour. They hide problem walls, absorb noise, and add depth and dimension like no other wall surface.

Published: 2005-05-10 00:00:00 read more...

Mold and Fungus on Homes Pose Problems

"What is this black stuff on my roof?" It's a question many homeowners all over the country are asking -- and it's a question Vincent R. Valles, Sr. hears often.

Published: 2005-05-10 00:00:00 read more...

Laundry Room "Living Spaces" a Growing Trend

According to a National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) consumer preference survey, 95 percent of respondents desire or must have a separate laundry room in their new home.

Published: 2005-05-09 00:00:00 read more...

Brilliant Driveways -- An Easy Do-It-Yourself Project

Every homeowner wants a beautiful, maintenance-free blacktop driveway, but most asphalt driveways suffer from pavement discolorations like skid marks and oil stains, or damage like rock salt pits, scrapes, gouges and cracks.

Published: 2005-05-04 00:00:00 read more...

Beautify Your Home

Whether you're spending time in the yard or just lounging on your deck, you want your house looking its best. That's why now's the perfect time to spruce up your home's exterior and impress your neighbors.

Published: 2005-05-03 00:00:00 read more...

How to Keep Your Home Cooling Costs Under Control

Cooling costs are expected to be high this summer. Here are some tips that will help your readers keep their bills under control.

Published: 2005-05-02 00:00:00 read more...

Outdoor Electric Grilling Brings Great Meals to Life

For several really good reasons outdoor cooking on an electric grill makes more sense than ever.

Published: 2005-04-29 00:00:00 read more...

Adding Classic Styling to Porches and Patios

As the home improvement craze continues to sweep the nation, a lot of homeowners are beginning to look beyond sheer size and focus on ways to improve their home's styling. One of the more popular upgrades these days are exterior doors, and not just the ones on the front of the house but also those leading to outdoor living spaces

Published: 2005-04-29 00:00:00 read more...

Bring the Islands to You This Summer

If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you be? One of the most popular answers to that question is on vacation in the islands, basking in the sun, bobbing in the waves and enjoying warm tropical breezes; but even people who live close to the shore can't get out there every day.

Published: 2005-04-29 00:00:00 read more...

Eliminating Faucet Fear

Don't be afraid. Put down the remote and walk away from the TV. Yes, they make installing a kitchen faucet look so easy, but even the average "DIYer" can tackle this project.

Published: 2005-04-27 00:00:00 read more...

Use These Tips to Create Professional Quality Window Treatments

Choosing a window treatment can be a scary proposition - not only will the style and fabric you choose help set the tone for the decor of your room, but you'll be spending a fair amount of money.

Published: 2005-04-22 00:00:00 read more...

When the Brady Bunch Calls a Designer

During the 1970s, more than 17 million new homes were built in the U.S., which means there is an abundance of split-level and ranch style homes that need updating today. Many of these homes were designed with small sinks, odd-sized tubs, small windows and dark earthy décor that can feel downright cave-like in comparison to today's modern home.

Published: 2005-04-20 00:00:00 read more...

Summer Honey-do's: "Honey, it's done" -- and then some!

Summer is home improvement time. Generally speaking, this falls into major categories such as: Cleaning, Lawn and Garden Work, Maintenance and Repairs, Upgrades and the "Honey-do List" of accumulated small things.

Published: 2005-04-20 00:00:00 read more...

Running Out of Storage Space?

If you are like most people, you're probably close to, or have already run out of room to store "stuff" in your house. The china cabinet and drawers are full, the closets are jam-packed, and you have so many boxes in the garage, they are touching the ceiling.

Published: 2005-04-19 00:00:00 read more...

The Greening of the American Office

Americans have become more environmentally conscious, and can be very creative about recycling and reuse. Many cities and towns make it easy to recycle household waste. But once you leave the confinements of "home sweet home," what can you do from 9 to 5 to continue your "green" way of life?

Published: 2005-03-24 00:00:00 read more...

Putting on the Glitz - With the Comfort of Jeans

American women are embracing elegance and living the simple life with style. Stilettos are sitting beside sneakers in closets all across the country. Women are reaching for red lipstick -- on their way to the grocery store - to bring the glitz of silver screen starlets into their world.

Published: 2005-03-10 00:00:00 read more...

Keep Up with the "Honey-do" List by Using Rented Tools

Want to tackle a do-it-yourself project but don't have the proper tools to get the job done? That's no reason to put aside the "honey-do" list, according to the American Rental Association (ARA). ARA recommends that cost-conscious do-it-yourselfers consider renting tools instead of buying them.

Published: 2004-12-21 00:00:00 read more...

Make Gutter Clean-up Easier and Safer

Owning a home may be the American dream, but taking care of it can be a nightmare. Across the country, warm weather is prime time for clean-up and home improvement projects.

Published: 2004-03-09 00:00:00 read more...