Is your kitchen making you fat?
Originally published on January 11, 2012
When it comes to weight gain, we blame our genes, our metabolism, and wrong foods that taste so right. But maybe our kitchens are to blame. Here’s why.
Read More →Evaluate your house for a garage addition
Originally published on January 22, 2010
When planning a garage addition, you’ll need to consider size, siting, access, and how the garage relates to the architecture of the house.
Read More →Understanding foundation problems
Originally published on January 15, 2010
Foundation problems may mean expensive repairs. Here’s what to look for and what you need to know to keep small concerns from becoming big headaches.
Read More →Evaluate your yard for a patio
Originally published on March 18, 2010
Evaluate your yard for a patio by understanding costs, the shape of your property, and variables such as sun and shade.
Read More →What to do if a contractor puts a lien on your house
Originally published on September 30, 2009
If a contractor puts a lien on your house, you’ll have to fight to keep your house out of foreclosure. Here’s how to defend yourself.
Read More →When choosing decking materials, factor in the savings gained by low maintenance and longevity, even if the initial cost is higher.
Read More →Repair and replace door hardware to update rooms
Originally published on January 14, 2011
Repair and replace door hardware that makes rooms look dingy and outdated. We’ll show you how door and cabinet pulls, knobs, and hinges can give your home new sparkle.
Read More →Laminate kitchen countertops: perfect fakes; low cost
Originally published on December 29, 2010
Replacement laminate kitchen countertops offer durability and big style at a relatively low cost, and are worthy contenders for your kitchen retrofit dollars.
Read More →Stone tile for the bathroom floor: a touch of the high life
Originally published on September 23, 2010
Stone tiles made of granite, slate, limestone, travertine, and polished marble make beautiful choices for your bathroom floor.
Read More →7 essential questions to ask before hiring an architect
Originally published on March 4, 2011
Hiring an architect for your remodel is an important step. Where to begin? Here are essential questions to ask candidates, and the answers they should give.
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 →Home security cameras: peace of mind while you’re away
Originally published on February 17, 2011
Easy-to-install security cameras let you keep an eye on your home from afar, ensuring safety and security for you and your family.
Read More →Power-assisted roof vents: lose the heat and save the money
Originally published on January 28, 2011
A power-assisted roof vent gives your attic air flow a boost, reducing moisture buildup and possibly lowering energy costs.
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 →Evaluate your house for a two-story addition
Originally published on March 26, 2010
When considering a two-story addition, carefully evaluate what’s possible physically, financially, and legally.
Read More →Create a garden room: it’s a natural choice
Originally published on May 3, 2011
Turn a common mudroom into a glorious and natural garden room.
Read More →Appliance buying guide: Clothes dryers
Originally published on January 15, 2010
When deciding on a new clothes dryer, here’s what you’ll need to know about features, style, price, and performance.
Read More →Adding plumbing service to your workshop or studio
Originally published on May 12, 2010
Adding even a simple utility sink to an outbuilding means running underground supply and drain lines at a cost of thousands of dollars.
Read More →Pull-out shelves: gliding to a hardworking kitchen
Originally published on December 29, 2010
Add pull-out shelves to your existing base kitchen cabinets and you’ll stay organized, frustration-free, and never lose an item in the back of a cabinet again.
Read More →Solar pool heaters can lower energy costs
Originally published on March 25, 2010
The upfront investment is high, but solar pool heaters can lower energy costs by harnessing the renewable energy of the sun.
Read More →Ceiling fans: keep your cool; save money, too
Originally published on January 28, 2011
A ceiling fan can lower the feel of a room’s temperature by 8 degrees, which means you can raise the thermostat and save on air conditioning bills.
Read More →Adding a basement bathroom: The ups and downs
Originally published on October 29, 2010
Adding a basement bathroom can cost $10,000. Is it worth the time and expense? These are the issues to weigh.
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 →Choosing windows for a Sunroom addition
Originally published on March 26, 2010
Do you want casements or double-hung windows? Wood or wood-clad windows? Simulated divided lights or snap-in grilles? Here’s how to pick windows for your sunroom addition.
Read More →
