Here’s our guide to improving, maintaining, and enjoying your house. With information on everything from home technology and reducing energy costs to outdoor living and working from home, these articles will help you care for your house and get the most out of living there.
Photographs are an amazing way to save and display our memories, and with digital technology it’s easier and less expensive than ever to capture every moment. The trouble is, more often than not, we end up with thousands of files instead of a collection. How do you manage your images so you can actually enjoy… Read more »
When it’s time to replace your window treatments, the sheer amount of options can be overwhelming. Here we’ve highlighted five window treatment trends that strike a perfect balance between timely and timeless. Color A splash of color may be just the update that your window coverings need, and you can’t go wrong with rich jewel… Read more »
Whether you crave washability, desire a new look for every season, or just want to make the best of a flea market find — slipcovers have got you covered. With a little research and effort, you’ll find a slipcover to fit your furniture piece, along with your style and budget. When to use a slipcover…. Read more »
For many of us, a house wouldn’t be a home without a pet — or two — or several. But even the most ardent pet lover will admit that cat towers and giant dog beds do little for the decor of a home. Fortunately, there’s a plethora of products on the market that will keep… Read more »
When it comes to safety, be sure to travel with a fully charged cellphone and a car charger. But it doesn’t hurt to have a Plan B. A well-stocked emergency car kit can save the day when cell service is spotty or help hasn’t yet arrived. Here’s a dozen items to keep in your vehicle… Read more »
With homes trending smaller, today’s houses are being built with cleaner lines and styles to emphasize the open concept. Detailed trim work and dark stains are out; light colors and simpler styles are in. Let’s look at six of the latest trends. Cabinets. Painted cabinets in bright colors with straight, simple lines are in vogue…. Read more »
Thanks to smartphone technology, homeowners can take control of the major systems in their houses with the tap of a finger. We’re talking lights, thermostat, door locks, sprinklers — even the TV. Here’s a quick rundown of what’s available. Home security. Smart systems are extremely customizable. When you are away, if a door or window… Read more »
As back-to-school season looms, it’s time to start thinking about whipping your home into shape for another 10 months of rushed mornings, afternoons of carpooling, and homework-filled evenings. Just as teachers prep their classrooms, parents can inspire success with these 13 tweaks to the home-front routine. Meeting of the minds. Change comes easier when everyone… Read more »
One of the big advantages to buying a newer home is the use of modern building materials that reduce — and in some cases, completely eliminate — the need for costly home repairs. Check out these advances in building materials and techniques, which are also a great choice for those with older homes facing big-ticket… Read more »
If you are in the market for a laptop, the choices are better, but more confusing than ever. Here’s how to shop for the best model to suit your needs. Ask yourself a few questions. Before delving into the hardware, assess how you will use your new laptop. The more demands you place on it,… Read more »
Whether it’s years of accumulated clutter, old appliances, or household chemicals, it has to go. Is it a DIY job? Or do you need to call in the professionals? Here’s what you need to know. Identify the different types of trash in your home. Your household waste falls into three categories and each has its… Read more »
Painting can be a big job, but with the right tools the task will be easier and the finished product more professional. Here are nine essential tools. Masking tape will keep paint off of adjacent areas where you don’t want it, making your job decidedly easier. Most often this will be masking trim work from… Read more »
It’s dated, ugly and needs to go. When the wallpaper in your home has seen better days, what’s the best way to tackle this messy job and keep your sanity? Check out this nine-step guide to a new look. Don’t skip the prep work. Remove all pictures, nails and screws from the wall to be… Read more »
When hiring a contractor to do work at your home, you want someone who is honest and competent. This is especially important when hiring a small contracting firm or individual. Here’s how to go about finding the right person for the job. Before looking for a contractor, plan your project. Gather pictures of the look… Read more »
Once you’ve cleaned and organized your house from top to bottom, what is the best way to get rid of all your unwanted junk? If time is of the essence, donate it all to a favorite charity thrift shop. But if you’d like to recoup some of the money you spent, try a garage sale…. Read more »
If you love outdoor entertaining, it might be time to think outside the four corners of your patio or screened-in porch. By creating a secondary outdoor spot, you’ll not only have extra seating but also another space to have fun with family and friends. Relaxing while dining. Adjacent to your deck or patio, create an… Read more »
Picture yourself on a nice afternoon, reading a book or magazine while lying on a hammock slung between two trees in your backyard. It’s a small slice of affordable homeowner heaven. Intrigued? Take a look at the best choices in outdoor lounging. Hammocks are a longtime favorite for backyard laziness. In a shaded area, hang… Read more »
There’s something magical about the beauty and delicacy of butterflies. Wouldn’t it be fun to have them as frequent visitors around your home? Here’s how to invite them into your yard. Learn your butterflies. Research local websites for butterfly field guides highlighting types native to your area. Pay close attention to the types of plants… Read more »
With just the right mix of trees, bushes and flowering plants, an ordinary yard can be transformed into a miniature bird sanctuary. Want to know how? Learn your native species. Consult local university websites, agricultural extension offices and other online sources for birds indigenous to your area. Find out what types of plants will attract… Read more »
The focal point of the home is the kitchen, where family and friends gather to share food, drink and fun. But if you like to entertain guests, even a large kitchen can become congested, especially if you are preparing and replenishing food throughout the event. Adding a butler’s pantry may be the answer to your… Read more »
