Lifestyle Trends

Concrete care: Easy, cost-effective fixes for your home's concrete

Since economic conditions have made homeowners more vigilant about taking care of their homes, preserving exterior concrete surfaces, such as driveways, patios, steps and walkways, is a worthwhile investment. Fortunately, a number of the most common repairs are easy to do and can be accomplished in a weekend. Read More

Ten tips for the perfect bathroom remodel

Giving an old, tired bathroom a makeover is one of the best things you can do to increase your home's resale value. And while it can take some planning, remodeling your bathroom is easily within the capability of most homeowners. Read More

Five top trends in patio design

When does a trend become a tradition? With continued interest in creating great outdoor living spaces, the trend for jazzing up the backyard may just be on the verge of becoming a staple of the American home, and as much a requirement as a great kitchen or welcoming bath. Here are five hot trends in patio design. 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

Savings heat up with solar-powered water heaters

Thanks to the federal tax credit program, you can recoup 30 percent of the total installed cost of a solar water heating system. It's a great time to switch to solar power for your water heating needs. But before you buy a solar water heater, do your homework, learn about the technologies available and review just how solar-friendly your home can be. Read More

Ten simple ways to make your home safe for every generation who lives in it

Most of us start life depending on our parents to take care of us. But as they age, chances are the roles will reverse. And, whether you provide additional help in their own homes - or move aging parents into your home - how do you prepare to meet the new needs of aging adults? Read More

Protect your home from termite damage

As Americans head outside to tend to their lawns and repair their houses, it's just as important to consider what might be happening out of sight, deep inside the home. Read More

Turn a gourmet kitchen into a chef's studio

Does your kitchen feel more like Julie's than Julia's? No need to be concerned ... if Julie could learn to master the art of cooking in less than a year, you can design your own chef's studio in a fraction of that time. Follow Julie's footsteps and take your lead from those who know kitchens best - professional chefs. Read More

Daylight is a great way to make your home more energy efficient

Daylighting is once again enjoying its day in the sun as an important factor in home design. Read More

Create 'curb appeal' with easy home projects

Whether you're selling your home and want the best price, or you just want to be the envy of the neighborhood, creating "curb appeal" can be very rewarding. And you're confident you know what constitutes great curb appeal - siding, windows, doors and a lawn that are all in good shape. But is that all you have to think about when it comes to curb appeal? Read More