Lifestyle & Trends - Home Improvement

Do you have the right tools for your "honey-do" list?

It's summer and there's no better time to take on home improvement projects and that ever-expanding "honey-do" list. In a few months, those tasks will seem a lot more unpleasant when they can't be done in the beautiful sunshine. Read More

Simple, eye-catching ways to 'in-grain' wood in home decor

From Colonial to Craftsman to contemporary, wood is a fundamental feature in home design for its ability to complement all types of architectural styles. Its beauty, versatility and durability allow homeowners to easily incorporate wood materials throughout a home, bringing warmth, texture and a touch of nature to any room. Read More

Can smarter closets smooth school days?

Experts say children with good organizational skills do better in school. Performing activities such as sorting and classifying when children are pre-school-age and older can help them acquire organizational skills. It may even help to build self-confidence and self-control, too. What better way to teach kids organization than by starting with their own clothes and toys? Read More

Give your kitchen a 'make under'

Think your kitchen needs a makeover? Why not try a "make under"? "Less is more" is the new mantra for homeowners who want to take control of their home decor - eliminating clutter, streamlining products and taking a simplified, minimalistic approach to their home-improvement projects. The perfect room to begin this organized overhaul is the kitchen, as it's a spot that tends to clutter quickly. Learn how you can make under this space and uncover its true beauty. Read More

A sustainable bathroom saves water and money

With so many products claiming to be green these days, it's hard to know which ones are the real deal. A great indicator for certified sustainability in the bathroom is the WaterSense label, which is granted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). By learning how (and which) products meet the criteria, you can easily incorporate the best - and most eco-friendly - products into your bath. Read More

How to cut home heating costs this winter

Some savvy homeowners are having their cake and eating it too when it comes to energy-efficient home heating. Imagine cutting your heating bills, while boosting your home's comfort. Sound too good to be true? Not for the thousands of homeowners who are using radiant floor heating, one of the oldest and most efficient means of heating a home. Read More

Cut heating costs with simple home decor changes and home improvements

With a scorching summer drawing to a close and last winter's deep freeze looming in their minds, many Americans are already looking for ways to curtail energy costs this winter. Fortunately, a few simple home improvements - and even some decor changes - can help reduce your home's heating costs this winter. Read More

Hibernate in style and comfort this winter

OK, so humans don't really hibernate, but when those bone-chilling northern winds arrive and snow starts to pile up against the door, we all tend to prefer the climate-controlled comfort of our own homes. And like all creatures, great and small, who endure the hardships of winter, we must prepare. Read More

Back to school - time to do your 'home' work

Before you know it, the kids will be back in school ... which means back to crazy schedules of carpools and extracurricular activities. To help keep some sanity during your hectic days, do your "home" work now. A few simple steps to get your house organized and updated can mean less stress once the school year begins. Read More

Transform your ugly front door

When guests arrive at your home or potential buyers see it from the street, first impressions count. But if your front door is an ugly, dilapidated, worn-out mess, they may get stuck there and fail to notice your home's inner beauty. Fortunately there are easy things you can do to transform your home's front entry to reflect your personal style, add instant curb appeal and even save on energy and upkeep. Read More

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