While it’s tempting to let summer’s leaves pile up, raking them prevents the soil from becoming oversaturated and encouraging mold. It’s also a good time to check outdoor stairs, railings and the driveway for safety issues. Before the really cold temperatures arrive, shut off and drain spigots to avoid damage from freezing temperatures, and empty […]
Transform a small stretch of wall at the base of your stairs into storage or a cozy nook. This space is ideal for a wide variety of projects, including: Turn this area into a pantry to store extra kitchen items that wouldn’t fit in your cupboards. Then, install mirrored doors to make the room feel […]
A chimney is a vital part of your home’s ventilation system. Understanding the parts of a chimney and their purposes will help you spot problems and keep your chimney working efficiently. The chimney crown is the cement part at the top of the chimney. This should be routinely checked to ensure it doesn’t leak water […]
Add rosy reds, yellows and oranges to your yard landscaping for fall colors that will beautify your outdoor decor. Yellow, orange and red autumn-themed accessories make great outdoor decorating ideas for porches or gazebos and will also set a cozy mood for patio ideas when entertaining family and friends. No autumn landscape is complete without […]
Radon is a radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer over time. It comes from the ground and can enter your home through cracks in floors, walls or foundations. Households are most affected by radon because indoor air pressure is lower than outdoor pressure, allowing radon to be drawn in. Building materials like concrete, wallboard […]
Whether you have a large walk-in closet or a tiny studio apartment closet, there are plenty of ideas for closet organization to keep your clothes and accessories neat. Try using clothing dividers to categorize and declutter, as well as hook organizers for organizing hats, bags and scarves. Clothes arranged by priority and occasion have been […]
There are many types of hardwood flooring, each with its own unique characteristics. Understanding these differences can help you determine what wood floor is right for your home. Oak is a common choice because of its durability and color versatility. Its varied grain pattern helps to hide scratches. Maple is a light-colored wood that complements […]
Spray foam insulation expands to fill gaps and cracks in a home or building. It also seals off areas where hot air can escape or cold air can enter, preventing condensation that can lead to mold and wood rot. This type of insulation can be sprayed in an attic, crawl space, and rim joist in […]
It seems like a small decision, but the finish of faucets, sinks, and hardware has a big impact on your home. Choosing the right finish is especially important when it comes to heavy metal rooms like kitchens and bathrooms. The good news is that it doesn’t have to match exactly. Mixing metals can add character […]
There’s a nip in the air, and it’s time to get your home ready for fall. Start by checking smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (and replacing batteries). Add a roof inspection to your list to prevent water damage, mold growth and more. Then, seal and caulk cracks around windows, doors and where pipes and wires […]
