Continuous hot water report [Infographic] When Americans wake up in the morning, they want one thing: a good hot shower. A recent study commissioned by Noritz America, a tankless water heater manufacturer, showed that while shower styles varied, the demand for continuous hot water and strong water pressure is nearly universal. But so is the need to cut utility costs and save energy. Consumers can cut operating costs up to 40 percent and help ensure that every shower is a hot one by shifting from conventional tank-type water heater...
Injury-prevention tips for DIYers When you finally tackle that home improvement project you've been planning for a while, you're probably eager to get the job done quickly, well and on-budget. Injuries can delay your project, and cost money for medical expenses or even time lost from your job. It's important to take steps to prevent injury.
Upgrading your kitchen from 'blah' to 'bling' for less To design a kitchen that meets the multiple needs of today's modern family, including standing up to its daily wear and tear without breaking the bank, homeowners can transform their kitchens with a few tips and tricks from interior design experts and companies that have created more durable and affordable yet equally be...
Simple tips for completing a DIY home project on time and on budget We are in the midst of a do-it-yourself revolution, with more Americans pulling out the tool belt and getting their hands dirty. If you'd like to hop on the DIY bandwagon and enjoy the money savings and pride that comes with completing a project yourself, it's important to keep some tips in mind so your grand ideas don't...
Home improvements that help save energy year-round Want to save more of your hard-earned paycheck? Conduct a quick home improvement checkup to look for potential maintenance needs that can help you save energy year-round.
Button-up your home for winter As the leaves turn and fall to the ground, it's time to start thinking about "buttoning up" your home for winter to keep you and your family healthy and comfortable, your belongings safe and high energy costs at bay.
Boomers: Shifting household needs create home design opportunities Boomers expect to stay in their homes and live independently into their later years, but in the midst of change that is occurring in their households, it's easy for them to lose focus on planning for their own future housing needs. By following the principles of universal design - what's good for people of all ages, size...
Stay warm this winter: home heating tips for tricky spaces When cold winds blow, it can be tricky to keep different rooms throughout your home at the right temperature - especially if you have old and drafty windows, tight spaces or room additions to work around. It can also be challenging to ensure economical comfort without having to do a major heating system overhaul. Yet the...
Year-round backyard safety tips for families Your backyard is a space where you enjoy quality time with your family - from running around with your kids in the fall leaves to playing catch with your furry friend in the snow. It's a place to escape, but remember accidents can happen anywhere at any time, and just like you childproof your house, you need to ensure y...
Eco-friendly tips to protect homes from pesky bugs Cool weather signals homeowners to finalize outdoor chores and cozy up for the long winter ahead. It also signals pesky insects to head indoors seeking food sources and warm, safe places to hibernate. What can the smart homeowner do?
Add curb appeal to your home with new exterior trim When it comes to selling your home, curb appeal means everything. According to the National Association of Realtors, curb appeal sells 49 percent of all homes. And nothing makes a worse initial impression than exterior trim that is peeling, cracked, rotted or falling apart. Replacing old or damaged exterior trim is a gre...
Boost your home's curb appeal for a quicker sale Selling a home in today's market requires a bit of marketing, some sweat and elbow grease, and a touch of luck. But even in a competitive selling market, it is possible to turn the sign in your front yard from "For Sale" to "Sold" so you can move on to your next residence.