Fourth of July: take a step toward energy ‘Independence’
Originally published on July 1, 2011
The Fourth of July — Independence Day — is a great time to reflect on how lucky we are to live in the United States of America, and what we can do to make our nation better, stronger, and more prosperous. As President Kennedy famously said many years ago, “Ask what you can do for your country.”
Read More →Holiday cleaning: tips for a guest-ready home
Originally published on December 14, 2011
How deep do you go when cleaning for holiday guests? There are some who take it to the extreme — but you can have a clean home without going overboard.
Read More →10 tips for saving energy in the kitchen
Originally published on August 28, 2009
Maintaining your large kitchen appliances is part of a smart home energy efficiency plan.
Read More →Why lose time waiting for the cable guy? 5 ways to take back that time
Originally published on November 21, 2011
Americans waste almost five hours a year waiting for service people to show up. Use that time wisely by tackling these home maintenance tasks.
Read More →Replacing plumbing: are your water pipes plumb worn out?
Originally published on November 12, 2010
Inspect the pipes in your home regularly to determine if all is well, or if replacing your plumbing is a reality and not just a pipe dream. Here are a few tips to make sure your water is running smoothly.
Read More →The Contractor Bond: when a handshake isn’t enough assurance
Originally published on February 24, 2011
“Word is bond,” the saying goes, but with home improvements, the contractor bond should be in writing.
Read More →Must-have drywall tools
Originally published on December 29, 2010
The correct drywall tools will easily repair the cracks and holes that inevitably appear in your walls. Here’s a look at the drywall tools that will do the job.
Read More →Green cleaning makes showers and baths shine
December 10, 2010
Try these green cleaning techniques and homemade products to shine up your shower and bath without irritating your skin and lungs.
Read More →FSC-Certified wood and SFI-Certified wood: What’s the difference?
Originally published on June 13, 2011
Shopping for wood countertops, cabinets, or doors? FSC and SFI are the two green certifications you need to know.
Read More →Must-have electrical tools
Originally published on December 29, 2010
Basic electrical tools will save you money on simple repairs and should be in every home owner’s toolbox.
Read More →Do-it-yourself home security: Windows may leave you vulnerable
Originally published on November 12, 2010
Protecting your home from break-ins starts with a do-it-yourself home security check to indicate whether your windows are an open invitation to criminals.
Read More →Got leaky windows? 3 low-cost tips to fix them
Originally published on May 2, 2011
Leaky windows are a big deal, winter or summer.
Read More →5 little-known ways to green clean your bathroom for pennies
Originally published on December 10, 2010
Green cleaners can be eco-friendly and kind to your wallet. Here are six ways to shine your bathroom for pennies.
Read More →Do-it-yourself home security check: doors are first line of defense
Originally published on November 12, 2010
Protect against break-ins with a security check that shows where the entrances to your house—your doors—are vulnerable.
Read More →Passive roof vents: helping your house breathe easy
Originally published on January 28, 2011
Passive roof vents expel excess heat and moisture. The key is to balance incoming air with outgoing, and perform an annual maintenance checkup.
Read More →Air leaks in your basement? How to spot and seal them
Originally published on December 14, 2010
Seal air leaks in your basement to stop the loss of your home heating energy.
Read More →Plumbing leaks: 8 smart tips to stop them
Originally published on November 12, 2010
Plumbing leaks can be prevented with a few simple measures. Plus, learn what to do when leaks occur.
Read More →Appliance maintenance: Refrigerators
Originally published on August 30, 2010
Keep your refrigerator running efficiently and reliably with this simple maintenance routine.
Read More →Do you need an electrical service upgrade?
Originally published on December 14, 2010
An electrical service upgrade can be messy and expensive, but there are times when it’s necessary to protect the safety, convenience, and value of your home.
Read More →Heating and cooling a two-story addition
Originally published on March 26, 2010
Heating and cooling a two-story addition involves making choices that balance cost, convenience, and energy efficiency.
Read More →Appliance buying guide: washing machines
Originally published on August 28, 2009
Confidently purchase a new washing machine that makes sense for your particular budget and level of green-mindedness.
Read More →Attic air leaks: how to find and seal them
Originally published on December 14, 2010
Even if your attic floor is filled with adequate insulation, seal air leaks around pipes and other attic openings to prevent waste of heating and cooling energy–and money.
Read More →Should you replace old wiring?
Originally published on December 14, 2010
If your house was built more than 40 years ago, replace old electrical wiring for safety.
Read More →Under-cabinet lighting: your kitchen task masters
Originally published on January 4, 2011
Chop, dice, prep, and clean without eyestrain—or nicking your thumb with a knife. Under-cabinet lighting eases kitchen chores and shows off your style.
Read More →Home security systems: types and costs
Originally published on November 12, 2010
Understand home security systems’ price, installation, and options.
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