The garage: a guy’s refuge
The traditional "guy" - broadly defined as a man's man who can take down a tree or change his own oil - faces extinction from threats ranging from reality television to couples' baby showers. Garages are a guy's refuge from these kinds of enemies. Guys' appreciation for garages is fairly predictable. They are a place for welcomed solitude that is just steps away from the creature comforts of their home. Conversely, a garage can be a grown-up clubhouse - a place to … [Continue Reading...]
A blanket for your house: energy-efficient, insulated siding
With a growing emphasis on eco-conscious living, homeowners recognize the importance and value of having an energy-efficient home. One essential factor for saving energy and maintaining indoor air comfort is sealing the exterior of the home. Insulation and energy-efficient windows play important roles in preventing air leaks where obvious holes are present, however, one hidden area susceptible to energy leaks is the home's framing. "Homeowners are looking for ways to … [Continue Reading...]
2012 homes will mix old and new designs under one (smaller) roof Trend expert forecasts popularity of right-sized, personalized home
Today's consumer mindset is steeped in common sense and careful decisions. When making a purchase, individuals aren't looking to accumulate "stuff." They're looking to buy an experience. That experiential purchasing behavior is especially true when it comes to selecting items for the home. Current home decorating is not about flashy, over-the-top design; rather, it's about decorating for real life - a home that's smaller, more well-equipped and custom-made for its … [Continue Reading...]
How to get rid of deer before they devour your yard and garden
Springtime means sunshine, blooms, birdsong - and the dreaded "deer drama" that will inevitably wreak havoc in your beautiful backyard this season. Deer are now a permanent part of our landscapes, brazenly entering our yards and eating our gorgeous gardens. They are majestic animals, and beautiful to look at - from a distance. Up close, trampling and tasting your tulips, they're just not a welcome sight. Springtime is when deer damage is most noticeable, particularly … [Continue Reading...]
Time to grow for it: Homegrown on your own
Who would have thought getting dirt under your fingernails would ever be considered one of the hottest trends going? According to Doug Jimerson, garden core director for Better Homes and Gardens, "growing your own fruits, veggies and herbs is something Americans are doing in record numbers this season." "It's cheaper to grow your own produce than buy it - one $3 tomato plant will yield pounds of produce all season long," Jimerson says. "Plus, the produce you grow just … [Continue Reading...]
This Week’s Top Story
Small-scale renovation projects continue to provide the best return for homeowners
Even as spring approaches, the residential real estate market continues to be rough on American homeowners more than three years after the start of the … [Continue Reading...]
Features
News You Can Use
Boomers: Big-impact health activities you can do in 15 minutes or less
The American baby boomer generation isn't content sitting still - they live full lives working, traveling and pursuing their favorite hobbies. Age is only a number for this determined group whose population is … [Read More...]
Homeowners’ emphasis on energy efficiency grows
Even in a volatile economy, homeowners are making home upkeep a priority. While the number of projects annually had been on the decline in recent years, a study from BuildFax, a resource for building, … [Read More...]
The revolutionary technology that’s making smartphones even smarter
Smartphones are about to become much smarter. Imagine a world where completing transactions, exchanging digital content, connecting electronic devices and accessing buildings and venues can all be done with a … [Read More...]
American Hardwoods offer a breath of fresh air
Flooring, cabinetry, and millwork made from American hardwoods are as much a part of the American Dream as a white picket fence. The beauty, architectural detail and overall inviting warmth they offer are often … [Read More...]
Help protect your home from rodents this winter
The cold temperatures are settling in for the winter months, and if you're not careful, rodents can also settle into your home. Your house - especially your kitchen - offers everything rats and mice are looking … [Read More...]
Getting a dog? Consider these factors to make sure you’re a match
There are plenty of cliche things that people say about dogs: that they're man's best friend, that they love you unconditionally and that behind those cold noses, there are warm hearts. But while dog owners … [Read More...]
Are you retirement ready? What you need to consider
The idea of retirement is both exciting and daunting. After leaving the workforce, you'll have the opportunity to pursue dreams that you have envisioned for your retirement. But you'll need to have the … [Read More...]
